Social Rules

Who makes up social rules? Not rules of morality, we know where those come from, but such rules as if you are not married or engaged you can not wear a diamond on your third finger left hand? Who made up the rule that there is no white after Labor Day? Who decided table manners or rules of etiquette for social behavior or which fork to use when or in which order the utensils are placed on the table? If you did not grow up knowing then have to look it up, it is quite confusing as there are different schools of thought. Is it true that children who grow up with knowledge of etiquette have a distinct advantage later in life? If that is true a great many of today’s youth are going to be in real trouble. In restaurant situations who made of the rules of who orders? Is it proper to crush your crackers into your soup or eat the flower on the plate or order your own drink? Are there such things still as finishing schools? The South used to be a stickler for social rules but this day and time it seems even a pardon me is beyond most humans. With the proper upbringing comes a myriad of other problems. When one purchases something one wants then one must consider “what will my friends and associates think of this?” If one falls in love with a watch but does not buy it because it is not a Rolex and one’s friends would not approve, isn’t that taking this whole social thing a step too far? Oh and vehicles; a person may really want a different vehicle but ends up purchasing a new Mercedes to “keep up appearances”. Life is too short to be so silly or become a member of the herd. Do people think for themselves anymore or are we now so programmed that we just follow the majority no matter the consequences? Why not be different, think for yourself, go your own way, become who and what you want to be? Strength of conviction is hard to practice in a society that ridicules and ostracizes people who dare to be different.

The Death Penalty

In its 1972 decision in Furman v. Georgia 408 U.S. 238 (1972), the Supreme Court had imposed a de facto moratorium on the death penalty. In response, legislatures in many states retooled the procedures used to impose the death penalty to conform to the Furman decision. This July Case, as a leading scholar refers to it, set forth the two main features capital sentencing procedures must employ in order to comport with the Eighth Amendment. The primary defect in American capital sentencing procedures that Furman had identified was the arbitrary and capricious nature of the entire system. Justice Potter Stewart had remarked that the death penalty was "cruel and unusual in the same way that being struck by lightning is cruel and unusual." Huh? In the July 2 Case, the Court set out two broad guidelines that legislatures must follow in order to craft a constitutional capital sentencing scheme. First, the scheme must provide objective criteria to direct and limit the sentencing discretion. The objectiveness of these criteria must in turn be ensured by appellate review of all death sentences. Second, the scheme must allow the sentencer (whether judge or jury) to take into account the character and record of an individual defendant. Then came Gregg v. Georgia U.S. 153 (1976) which reinstated the death penalty. Since that time many tried and true forms of Capital Punishment have fallen by the wayside being deemed cruel and unusual. The electric chair; Old Sparky, hanging, the gas chamber and the firing squad have gone. They have been replaced by a drug cocktail seeping into the arm and the convicted murderer, rapist or serial killer who falls quietly to sleep then dies. What about their victims? Their deaths were not cruel and unusual? How about a death penalty that is administered the same way the convicted person took the life of their victim? The electric chair came to be used as a form of execution in the 1880’s. 2400 volts of electricity insured the death of the condemned. During the use of the chair there were instances that caused it to come under scrutiny as being cruel and unusual. Execution by hanging was a grim, hands-on business in early-20th century America. It took a strong stomach indeed to wrap a noose around the condemned man, then let him drop through a gallows trapdoor to choke and gasp and swing until he died, unless they took into account the nature of the crime committed. No explanation is needed for the firing squad. In 1924, the use of cyanide gas was introduced as Nevada sought a more humane way of executing its inmates. A federal court in California found this method to be cruel and unusual punishment. The last use of a gas chamber was on March 3, 1999. For execution by this method, the condemned person is strapped to a chair in an airtight chamber. Below the chair rests a pail of sulfuric acid. A long stethoscope is typically affixed to the inmate so that a doctor outside the chamber can pronounce death. Once everyone has left the chamber, the room is sealed. The executioner flicks a lever that releases crystals of sodium cyanide into the pail. This causes a chemical reaction that releases hydrogen cyanide gas.
I was probably writing the first of many death penalty papers when David Mark Hill walked into the DFCS office in North Augusta and took the lives of those people. Too bad he missed his head when he tried to kill himself. Too bad someone didn’t help him along then. No one had to wait on DNA or fingerprint analysis from AFIS; everyone knew who was to blame. Here it is 12 years later and if no one stays the execution he will finally get what he deserves. I wonder what those three victims could have accomplished in the 12 years that have since passed.

Fickle Bride

Last weekend was a busy one. Not only the engagement party that was mentioned in my previous column, but the following day was a wedding and reception. Most of the planning and menu discussions were either by phone or email as the bride and groom lived out of town. I am one of those detail people that must have every little thing nailed down weeks in advance. Unfortunately, the bride was not. We were still trying to get her to make decisions the week of her wedding. As it was she never got around to signing her contract for the catering but since time was so short we went with it anyway. What a mistake that was! She had, however, signed her contract for location but decided to take advantage by coming in the previous day with her attendants and by the dark of night when we were all busy across the street, decorate. It took them a couple of hours to weave the flowers through the gazebo and the arch, plus all the added decorations around the grounds but she thought nothing of pilfering the time. The day of the wedding preparations for the sit down meal began early. I was not at all happy with the menu she chose but it is what she wanted so it is what I did. It turned out that the guests ate every smidgen from the Balsamic green beans down to the shrimp Alfredo and that was enough to please me. However, the following Monday we received a scathing email from the bride complaining about everything from the food to the type of mulch we use and everything in between. Here is a person who, in essence, steals time, waits until the last minute to make decisions regarding one of the most important days of her life, then, when it is all over, complains about the type of mulch we use! In a lengthy email I tried to explain the mulch and a few other things but all that did was result in many threats so I gave up. It was odd because during the preparations and after the meal, both the bride and groom thanked us for the wonderful job we did and the lovely meal and two days later the barrage hit. All I can think is that there was an older woman who complained about everything from the minute she arrived, who must have been a relative, and she got to the bride. Who knows? No good deed goes unpunished as they say and we let her slide on the contract which will never happen again and we did not charge her for the extra time she took to decorate. You just never know but I will keep in mind that for my part, the plates came back cleaned of food so the guests must have been pleased. Besides, when one serves jugged Gallo with a gourmet meal, something is wrong with that picture.
The USPS holds the annual food drive every year in May, which makes it annual. Three years running no one picked up the bags in our neighborhood. I was expecting the same this year but was pleasantly surprised to find that they got it right on the fourth try. It is a good thing they do.
Finally, Sunday night past, with all the high winds, we were “treated” to an unplanned fireworks display. Transformers were exploding all around causing many power outages. Three houses up the street from me a transformer exploded sending sparks and fire shooting into the air for a few seconds. It was a relief that nothing caught fire and a special relief that our street did not lose power. We were actually lucky all the way around; the tornados missed us.

Ramblings

Help. The Ruby Throat has arrived early this year. As soon as he was spotted the Hummingbird feeders came out, nectar was prepared and the feeders were hung in the yard. There is not much blooming back there yet therefore supplementing his food was a priority. The problems: First it was the ants climbing down the hangers to converge on the feeder holes and the sweet nectar. Out-smarted them by drilling a hole in a plastic paint cap, the kind that has the small cover in the center, and filling the outside with water. Now it’s the lizards. They latch onto the openings and take up residency to suck the nectar dry. Can’t figure out how to thwart them nor can I figure out how to keep the Raccoons away either. It seems no matter where I hang the feeders the cute little buggers can figure a way to reach them. They must hide in the woods during the day and watch because every single time I plant something, that night they come dig it up. I replant it and they then leave it alone but it is weird. Does anyone have an idea how to solve these problems?
Last night, Friday, I cooked for an engagement party. Nothing unusual about that but what was unusual was running into old friends. Some of them I had not seen since 2002. There were attorneys and would be district attorneys and many of the Hill people I used to know. It was like old home week there for a while.
How much effort does it take for a perfectly healthy human being to return a grocery cart? Evidently more effort than most want to extend. I witness it every time I go to Publix and today was no exception. I have no problem with those who legitimately park in the handicapped spots or the older than I folks leaving theirs strategically in the lot, but I do have a problem with perfectly healthy, young and younger people abandoning a cart because they are just too lazy or in too big a hurry to walk the short distance to take it back. Most of the time the attendants will take your groceries out for you but if you opt to do it yourself at least have the courtesy to return the cart instead of leaving it behind another car or pushed up against the car next to yours or just left in the middle of the lot. If people have enough energy to get dressed to the nines, slather on makeup and diamonds then they ought to have enough energy to return a grocery cart.
What do you do when you befriend someone, do every thing you can to help them, get them a better paying job and try to help them build some self-esteem and they spend their days trying to put a knife in your back and sometimes succeeding? What do you do when people make promises to you then they spend their days trying to figure ways to get out of those promises? What do you do?

On The Other Side

With all the yard work and the piles of debris accumulating on the curb, I took notice of the street and gutters that were also filled with debris from the rains. I called the department of sanitation to inquire as to whether the street sweeper could hit our street after garbage pick up, not only to remove the mess but to keep it from going into the sewer system. I spoke with Sonya Lindley. She is without a doubt a huge asset to North Augusta. She could not have been nicer or more helpful and in fact she told me a couple of things I was not aware of. Did you know that you are not supposed to pile your debris on the street until the day before pick-up? I didn’t but I do now so I will make sure not to carelessly put it out anymore. I also thought you were supposed to put it in the street but that turned out to be a false assumption. It is supposed to be on your property or the apron if you have sidewalks, not in the street. If you pay attention you learn something new everyday.
As promised, the guys came out Tuesday and removed all the built up dirt and trash in the gutter. The street sweeper came by this past Thursday. What an improvement they have made in the beautification of our street; thanks everyone.
North Augusta must have pulled everyone out for the Tour de Georgia. There was someone at each street to ensure no cars on Carolina Avenue or Georgia Avenue as the cyclist made their passes. As usual there were those motorists who could not read or did not want to be inconvenienced by the road blocks. Those with cell phones stuck in their ear, not paying attention and getting angry because they could not go where they wanted to go. Public Safety handled them with diplomacy and skill, sent them on their way and insured the safety of the cyclist.
As it is my habit to complain about stores and employees, I have to take a few things back this week. I gathered my courage to make a trip to the super store. With the exception of a couple of gossip klatches and my impatience with the motorized carts, it turned out to be a pleasant experience. Found what I needed, got help when needed and checked out fast. Wow, I may just go back again.
Saturday was, to say the least, different. This time instead of being in the kitchen throughout an event; I actually was able to watch one from start to finish. Previously I had promised to bartend for a wedding which put me on the other side so-to-speak. It was a blast. The wedding planner had everything down to a science and the entire event went like clock work from start to finish. The weather even decided to cooperate. A Catered Affair, with Beverly in charge, put out a fabulous spread. From the pre-reception appetizers to the full meal buffet, it was all beautifully done, great tasting and fresh. Her staff was amazing and accommodating. They set formal tables outside; each had a lovely centerpiece of roses, peonies and hydrangeas. The center fountain was filled to over-flowing with more roses, peonies, hydrangeas, greenery and quite a few things I did not recognize. From the moment the guests were seated to the closing speech, everyone was served promptly and with ease. It was a lovely well done event from start to finish. Shortly after all the clean up was done I relaxed with shoes off and watched the fabulous fireworks display from downtown. Bravo!

Job Hunting

You just never get used to it no matter how old you get or how many times you have to do it. It is nerve racking, it is, in a way, degrading and it is most definitely the one thing that makes you second guess every single word that comes out of your mouth. I am speaking of going on job interviews. You put yourself out there for people to judge you not only on your skills or your knowledge, but the way you look, speak, move or smile. Of course I am trying to find something similar to what I was doing because after all these years and everything I have learned trying to fit; I have finally found my niche and would like nothing better than to continue doing what I was doing for people.
The one good thing about being out of work this past week is that I have caught up on so much yard work that has been left undone because I was never home to do it. Mulching, weeding, planting, cutting down dead trees and wonder of wonders my imagination has come back and I am now able to create in my own yard. I did not realize how soft I had become until working outside these last few days. Tired? Yes, but a really good tired, physically tired not mentally.
When I was on the hunt for a job before, I put in at least three applications for the different Lowe’s locations and never once received a call. I finally, after visiting Lowe’s twice this week, have figured out why. I have a brain. Where do they find these people they hire? You just want to smile at them and say, “Here’s your sign.” It does not take a genius to accept a payment and enter the correct amount or figure out what that little card reader is for when people make a purchase but it seems that they have discovered the only two people in the area who can not do that. And the thought of having to go back to our local super store to grocery shop in order to save money fills me with dread. Once you get in it takes forever to get out. Never mind the lines at check out or the sometimes dim bulbs running the register, it is navigating around “old home week” in the aisles or the lookie-loos, or those that push their carts exactly the way they drive our roads; cell phone in one ear and no regard for oncoming traffic or anyone else that may be trying to get from one place to another.
My best friend moved to Colorado a few years ago. She has a job working with troubled teenaged girls. The things that have happened to those girls in their short lives would make you cry. I have no idea what the law did to the people who perpetrated these heinous crimes against the girls but the death penalty would be my vote if given one. One such girl in my friend’s care is a full-blooded Ute Indian. She has reached the point where she is now able to go out into society to work a part time job but in order to do this she needed a state identification card. My friend took her to the DMV in order to obtain this card but was told she would have to first get a card from the Bureau of Indian Affairs. After a multitude of phone calls the BIA informed her that the girl no longer needed a card from them that the state should issue a card if she has all the necessary paper work required such as birth certificate etc. which she does. Still the state refuses to give her an I.D. card. I could not help but be amazed at this situation. Here is a girl who is a direct descendant from the very first Americans who has been through a life that no one can imagine and she can not acquire an I.D. card, yet every day thousands of people cross our borders illegally and the federal government issues them social security cards and driver’s licenses, gives them welfare and food stamps and in essence, welcomes them with open arms. This situation angered me and it should anger you.

Aiken County Disbursement

No doubt many of you have been aware of the goings on at MCG. If you have read a paper or seen a newscast in the last few months something about it has been reported. Let me be the first to tell you the closing took place yesterday, March 31, 2008. UBS and MCG signed all the papers and now the work begins. I was lucky enough to meet Mr. Spiak of UBS Financial and the President of MCG, Dr. Rahn, that same night. Along with attorneys and PR folks, they got together to celebrate the signing of all that paperwork and the beginning of a long relationship. There were locals as well as people all the way in from New York who gathered for this celebration. Presentations were made, gifts were given, and everyone enjoyed a five course meal and had a wonderful evening. Some were up and out at 3:30 a.m., others lingered over breakfast then headed to a final meeting before catching flights home.
By the time this is printed the meeting to decide the allocation of accommodation tax will have been held. Here are a few of the request:
1. Wagner is asking for $70,000.00 to improve the medians and to replace worn out signage to the entrances of the city with brick markers. I don’t know about you but I think their city should pay for that.
2. The N. A. Arts Council is requesting money for two handicap access ramps and electrical infrastructure for a cover for Maude Edenfield Park in order to have “Pickin’ in the Park” and have a nice place for a family setting. Accommodations taxes should, as stated in SC Codes, go to the arts but and please correct me if I am wrong, isn’t it a law that an entity must provide handicap access? Sure it would be nice to have a cover in the park but accommodations taxes are to promote tourism and family friendly settings invoke images of just our community.
3. Jackson is asking for $15,000.00 for a 50’ x 60’ pavilion in order to have a restrooms and storage for the huge number of tourist that flock to their city. Note the sarcasm.
4. North Augusta Arts & Heritage is asking for $18,000 for a Microsoft computer system to go in their new office and gift shop in the new Municipal building. They are paying rent for the office and gift shop, let the city furnish the computer system and they can also pay rent on that. How does a computer system promote tourism?
5. Old Towne is asking for $40,000.00 for a 3000 sq foot building in the Living History Park to enable them to hold weddings, receptions and concerts inside. Concerts promote tourism, weddings and receptions do not. As long as the building they build is in keeping with the theme of the park, it would be nice for them to have one.
6. Sally is asking for $10,000.00 to replace signage to their main entrances advertising the Chittlin’ Strut. Good idea. That brings in a lot of people from all over.
7. This is a good one. Montmorency is asking for $25,000.00 to build a second water source for the huge amounts of tourist that come there plus it will connect a new shopping center being built by a private developer. Let the private developer pay for his own water source, besides, the shopping center will only benefit residents.
8. Beech Island wants $20,000.00 for an Agriculture Museum.
9. Aiken is asking for $33,000.00 for fences around their “historic” polo field to keep vandals out. How does that promote tourism?
10. North Augusta Boxing Club is asking for $20,000.00 to build metal stairways to access the SC Boxing Hall of Fame and additional seating. They draw the enormous amount of 500-1000 tourist a year.
Now, go to the S.C. Code of Laws, section 6-4-10, read where and how the accommodations taxes are to be used then reread the request above. If I had room here I would paste it in but there is not enough room.
North Augusta is absolutely beautiful this year. I have never seen whiter dogwoods or more prolific azaleas or more gorgeous Lady Banks Roses. Ride around and take a look.

More Celebs

This week I had the pleasure of meeting another children's author. Kathy Gladden spent three days in North Augusta researching her next book about Mandy the Manatee who has somehow become trapped in the Savannah River with her calf and a hurricane is looming. Ms. Gladden was trying to work out the logistics of just how Mandy got in the Savannah River in the first place and what trials and tribulations she and baby were going to face in the eye of the storm. Ms. Gladden plans to return to our area this summer for more research but while she was here she also visited with a local author to read his manuscript for possible publishing. She and her partner, Pam Bohne, write, while she and Johnnie Peevey specialize in publishing children's books.
Ms. Gladden was born and raised in Norman, Oklahoma however, she has resided in Gatesville, Texas for the past 18 years. Gatesville, population approximately 30,000, is just outside Killeen, the home of the very large Army Base, Ft. Hood. Besides writing and publishing, Ms. Gladden is also a teacher. For years she taught English, now she teaches cognitive restructuring. Young girls who are involved in criminal activities are sent to her by a judge for a two year course on restructuring their mindset. If they are successful, their records are expunged; if not, they serve the full sentence. This is akin to our First Offender Act.
Ms. Gladden's partner, Pam, also resides in Texas and has the distinction, whether good or bad, of owning the ranch that abuts President Bush's ranch. She told a humorous story about one of Pam's cows that was in the process of giving birth but was in great distress. Pam tried to help her but soon realized she needed help herself and could find no one to assist. Meanwhile the Secret Service detail on their rounds to protect the perimeter of the Bush ranch, happened by. Now picture this; two Secret Service agents in suits on their hands and knees with arms up to the elbows, helping Pam deliver the calf. Who knew they could be so versatile? After that experience the Secret Service agents help Pam get her cows in at night and have established a real friendship with her.
Kathy also told me that she would be very interested in visiting one of our schools, with books, on one of her next visits. If this takes place let me assure you everyone will love her!
Another interesting character this week was Paul Dale from Concord, North Carolina. At 19 he joined the Navy, this was in 1965. He was "itching" to go to Viet Nam, in fact he said boys at that age are chomping at the bit to get in the mix that is how so many are recruited during times of war. Paul was a photo journalist at that early age and somehow managed to swing orders from the Commander of the Pacific Fleet to travel to Saigon and territories in civilian clothes. His first trip over was on a plane carrying nothing but officers and civilians; he sort of made himself blend in. He spent the first six months in Saigon living in a hotel. Paul wanted to fly a mission in the single engine planes that led the bombers to targets even though the mortality rate was very high; his superiors denied that request. He then asked to fly jet runs but was also denied that opportunity. Angel on his shoulders no doubt. Today he is retired. He and his wife June visited our area because they are very interested in Civil War history and his family is originally from Georgia.

Fast Food

Last weekend was yet another lovely prelude to spring. Two beautiful days to work in the yard or to raise the windows and let the breeze sweep out some of the vestiges of winter or both. Trim hedges, build brick patios, clean away the debris of fallen limbs or trash that accumulated over the past few months. Then after a few hours of good work in the yard come inside get water and sit, feeling satisfied and relaxed until, that is, one neighbor decides to crank up the rap, the other neighbor decides to sing along and can’t carry a tune in a bucket or another neighbor decides to hold forth on his/her front porch doing makeup and hair and yet another neighbor wants the rest of us to hear his phone conversations as he speaks at the top of his lungs. The peace and quiet is shattered; the lovely prelude to spring has to be shut out with the closing of the windows due to the inconsideration of others; thank goodness for good books.
Things have been is sort of a blue funk lately which tends to sap energy and it makes the thought of dirtying up a pan or cranking up the oven just to prepare a meal a waste of time and effort. On one of those blue nights I decided to do something I do not do often and that is go grab a fast food from one of the local establishments. What I really wanted was a Checker burger, the big juicy Buford but I did not have the energy to drive to I-20 or to Walton Way to procure one so I settled. The drive-thru line was long therefore I talked myself into going inside which was my first mistake. By the time I got the fast food the drive thru line was clear; oh well. A couple of things struck me while I stood in the slowest moving line in the world. One person takes your order, takes your money that has been who knows where, gives you change that has been who knows where, then goes over and picks up your food to squirrel away in the to-go bag. Secondly, another person is wandering around with a clip board in his hand either taking inventory or keeping track of hourly sales while talking to the person who took your money who is handling your food, then hovers over that food while awaiting an answer. Then you overhear that he too has been counting money that has been who knows where and has who knows what on it and he is in close proximity to your meal. Push that out of your mind if you can. Take your to-go bag, walk over to the drink dispenser, put your cup under the ice funnel and watch as ice slowly drops in your cup along with some black fuzzy stuff that looks like the packing material around certain electronic parts. Ask for another cup; go to a different ice funnel, which of course decides at that moment not to perform. Solution; fill the cup with drink, put ice in it when you get home and try very hard to concentrate on something else while you eat the food that has been touched by hands that have touched money that has been who knows where and in who knows what.
Finally, if you are looking for a used car, there seems to be a new used car lot on Metz; vans and other vehicles. I was not aware that was zoned commercial but it must be because at the end of Metz where it intersects with Buena Vista there is also a repair shop. Happy hunting.

In Loco Parentis

It always happens. The weather begins to change, the Robins arrive, and those old gardening juices begin to stir deep within our souls. It becomes a test of strength or a test of will not to head to the local garden shops to purchase those Spring plants or those vegetable seedlings because you know its coming, that last cold snap that will murder what you have lovingly put in the ground. It is essential in our area to wait until Good Friday to dig those holes and gently lower those tomato plants or squash plants or cucumbers into the ground. The tiny tendrils of peas or beans will succumb to one night of freezing temperatures as will the tender shoots of corn and peppers therefore it is essential to fight that urge to be one with nature until Good Friday arrives and it is safe to put that garden in.
The following definition is from Wikipedia. In loco parentis used to be widely accepted in learning institutions but given that a large percentage of today’s children receive no discipline at home, it is only natural that they receive no discipline at school.
The term in loco parentis, Latin for "in the place of a parent", refers to the legal responsibility of a person or organization to take on some of the functions and responsibilities of a parent. Originally derived from British common law, it is applied in two separate areas of the law.
First, it allows institutions such as colleges and schools to act in the best interests of the students as they see fit, allowing what would otherwise be considered violations of the students' civil liberties.
Second, this doctrine can provide a non-biological parent to be given the legal rights and responsibilities of a biological parent if they have held themselves out as the parent.
In this day and age of political correctness, lack of First Amendment Rights, and our litigious society, learning institutions are afraid to hand out discipline to those they are in charge of. What happened to “if you get a spanking at school you’ll get a worse one at home” or the ruler in the hand or a paddle across the backside? It has not been that long ago that students were afraid to cause problems at school and if we are honest with ourselves children back then did not grow up to be gang members or do drugs or commit suicides or turn into the dregs of society. A huge percentage of the children from homes and schools where discipline was the normal thing grew up to be successful productive adults. Granted some discipline got out of hand and could have been considered child abuse but those things were not reported back then and now a good slap to the backside is considered reason enough to remove the child from the home. We have bent so far in the other direction that we are afraid to speak for fear of offending someone or are afraid to discipline for fear of being sued or afraid to live by our instilled beliefs because we may be plastered all over CNN or considered to be an enemy of the state. Time to pick up the mantle before it is too late and our society deteriorates to nothing.

I looked out my window the other morning and my heart leapt. Standing in my front yard were five does. In broad daylight, 8:45 in the morning, just standing around. I very quietly went out, they did not run but looked at me curiously then meandered off into the woods and disappeared. What a thrill that was.

Education in Prison

This week I met Dr.and Mrs. David Osterlund from Columbia, South Carolina. Dr. Osterlund is employed by Columbia International University and has developed a program called the CIU Prison Initiative. Fifty-four inmates, felons, from twenty-six prisons applied to study for an Associate of Arts degree. Out of the fifty-four, thirty-two were selected to interview and from those, fifteen were chosen for the program. Part of the application process was for each inmate to write a 500 word statement of faith. You are probably thinking the same thing I was thinking when I heard this requirement; most everyone in prison gets religion when it suits them, but it turns out these men were for real. All fifteen inmates were transported from their incarceration sites to Kirkland Correctional Institution in Columbia where the two year program is being taught. They receive 70 credits over a 2 year period and the first group will graduate this December 12th.
The obvious question here was does this help with the recidivism rate? Do these men go on to lead productive lives once released; is this the goal? Funny thing is most of them are never getting out. One of them is serving three consecutive life sentences. All of them tested well over 100 on the I.Q. test which leads to another question; were they bored and turned to a life of crime or what could they have done if they had not?
When this group graduates they will move to other prisons to assist as men of peace, as chaplain assistants, evangelists or simply as providing a listening ear, therefore having a purpose in life for themselves or helping give another inmate a purpose. It has been shown, as Dr. Osterlund told me, that when these men go cell to cell to speak with other inmates, it has a calming peaceful effect on the entire block. A similar program was first tried at Angola in Louisiana under the leadership Warden Cane. Any of you John Grisham readers know all about Angola; remember The Chamber? It was shown in Angola, that when prisoners were meaningfully involved and lived out their faith, violence decreased 40%. Osterlund studied the program and the results stemming from the program and presented it to his superiors; thus the initiative was begun. Each semester four or five professors go to the prison and teach courses such as World History, Intro to Psychology, Field Education, Theology, Bible Survey, English, Speech and Math. As of today twelve of the fifteen inmates are on the Dean’s List which is not surprising given their I. Q’s and their focus. In August 2008 16 more men will begin another two year program. Of those that are being released I would like to know what happens to them, what they end up doing or if they are recidivist. I suppose this could be the rebirth of the rehabilitation model of prisons if it proves to be successful.

The Robins have made a mass appearance this past week. Huge flocks have descended to eat as many Carolina Cherry berries as they can hold. One obvious results of this is the lovely purple spots on our cars and the other is I think the berries make them tipsy. I have witnessed strange behavior such as flying into fences. I, for one, am glad they are here. It means fewer Carolina Cherry trees will germinate, every one that hits the ground grows, and the fewer that germinate the fewer we gardeners will have to pull up.

Interesting Folks

All sorts of interesting people keep crossing my path. Take, for instance, Katherine Harrison. Mrs. Harrison was visiting MCG to demonstrate new ways to take and test biological samples. She has a degree in Research Biology and was in the field of research until she got married. She and her husband live just outside San Francisco. They purchased a house which meant a mortgage none of us could afford, so she left the field of research and began in Biological Testing Sales. You’d think someone with this type of degree would be all serious and focused on work, but Mrs. Harrison is one of the most personable, funniest people I have met in quite a while. I am truly looking forward to her next visit.
It seems my source was incorrect when he told me that the public was not welcome at the Peach Jam. I have also been told that the quote he gave me that supposedly came from Mayor Jones was also incorrect. I do apologize if this be the case. I had no reason to doubt this person as he is very involved in the goings on in the city and he said this in front of others. From what I understand I can now go straight to the source if I have any questions and my questions will be answered. I do not write these things because I have dislike for the city. On the contrary, I love this city but I sometimes see an injustice and would like to call attention to it as well as hopefully correct it. My point is still valid; tax revenue, meals, shopping and lodging in North Augusta should be promoted. We should not sit by and watch all those revenues drive across the Thirteenth Street Bridge.
You University of Georgia fans may be interested in who I met this week. He was a nose guard for the Bulldogs in 1996 and had plans to go pro until he tore up his knee. After surgery it became apparent he was not going to be able to play any longer and now he is, of all things, an accountant. Any guesses as to who he is? Well, you die hard fans will probably remember him; it is Rory Hogan. He was in town with his girlfriend Shannon who works for an ad agency in Atlanta. She is involved in print, television and commercial ads.

Nike Peach Jam

Plans are already underway for the Nike Peach Jam coming in July. Nike comes to town along with hundreds of scouts, basketball players, coaches and parents for a few weekends. North Augusta graciously hands over Riverview Park and Recreation Center to all these visitors. Our local churches open their doors to provide free meals to all participants during the days they are here otherwise some of the participants could not afford to come. However, at the end of each day, all those hundreds of scouts, players, coaches and parents leave North Augusta, cross the Thirteenth Street Bridge and spend all their money in Richmond County. Riverview Park is in essence off limits to the community during this time. From what I can gather locals do not participate as spectators nor are we allowed in the building. Does anyone else view this as wrong? Why are we so gracious? When I say we I mean the powers that be. Shouldn’t North Augusta expect to reap some of the rewards in tax revenues or meals or lodging? Remember, one of our own sits on the board of the Augusta Sports Council. Shouldn’t he insist that North Augusta reap some of the rewards or is the fact that he sits on that board with Mr. Morris and the head of the Marriott Augusta enough to intimidate him and let Augusta receive all the benefits?
In light of all this I did a little research and discovered the budget for North Augusta. We do take in a substantial amount of money for the rental of the facility which I assume goes back into the recreation department. I could not determine where the money went once collected and did not know who to call to ask. Although it is a good thing to put the money collected into the coffers of the recreation department, what about the rest of North Augusta. According to an unnamed source, Mayor Jones was quoted as saying “This is not a public event”, therefore North Augustans are not allowed to even have a table out front promoting the city or giving out information about the city. What is wrong with this picture?
On a lighter note we have visitors from Sydney, Australia in our fair city. They are here visiting their son who is a student at ASU and a member of the ASU Jaguars. He, Tom, is a freshman studying Health Sciences which came as no surprise when I learned his mother Ann is a Clinical Psychologist. She is also a published author who writes under the pseudonym of Ann Wignall. Her latest book, Helping Your Anxious Child, will be out this fall. Ann Wright is involved in helping children and adolescents who are depressed and are battling anxiety. Mr. Wright is a retired attorney who modestly admits to be working on a book of sorts about their family history. He would, he says, love to be a John Grisham, but has no immediate plans for that. In his retirement he is enjoying a lot of travel, golf and is a member of a board that classifies films for Australian theaters.

Until this past weekend I had no occasion to drive to the end of West Avenue to Bluff. Imagine my surprise! All of the homes are gone. Bulldozed, land cleared and no trace remains of the houses that once stood there. The trees remain in tact thank goodness for they are old and need to be saved. The face of North Augusta is changing.

The Augusta Bridal Show

The Augusta Bridal Show. We arrived three hours early to set up our booth managing to finish just in the nick of time. We were in good company. Martina’s, Partridge Inn, Mary Kay Cosmetics, wedding cake designers, travel agents, and caterers filled the Bell Auditorium in anticipation of attracting future brides. It was rather intimidating being in the company of all those professionals who decorated and designed for a living and the three of us just going by trial and error. We had planned every detail but as luck would have it when we arrived our booth was not quite as big as our plans; so we adjusted. Every venture needs a plan B.
The doors opened and a mass of humanity began to fill the aisles. Future brides and their mothers or their fiancées or their girlfriends perused the offerings of each vendor. As I watched the crowd, something I love to do, it occurred to me that very few people bother to dress for occasions anymore. It was obvious that quite a few of the girls just did not care about appearance. Shirts too tight and too short to cover the protruding belly that hung over waistbands; unwashed, unkempt hair hanging everywhere and people who looked as if they had just gotten out of bed to make the trip. The few that took the time to be properly attired stood out in the crowd. Looking around one could see folks walking down the aisles stuffing food in their mouths; the caterer’s booths were quite popular. Even though it cost $10.00 to get in, no one monitored the vendor entrance. Cowboys from the Futurity wandered through which was fine by me I like guys in tight jeans, but others managed to crash the party too. A few of the citizens who do not have a permanent home, the grocery cart set, came in for the warmth and free food and if I didn’t know better I’d swear that the land of the Chattahoochee bussed some of its mountain residents down to the show.
We spent two hours promoting ourselves although we could tell who was really interested and who just wanted to register for the free over-night stay. Just before the scheduled fashion show the event coordinator visited our booth. Much to our surprise and joy we won best booth of the show. It was exciting especially considering the company we were in. Rhonda even got to go up on stage to accept the award. Shortly following the presentation the fashion show began. Bridal gowns for all seasons by David’s Bridal flowed across the stage. Really cute guys in tuxes accompanied some of the female models. They performed; they danced, they acted, they strutted their stuff and it was all very entertaining. The highlight of the show was the little flower girl and her escort. Finally it was over and the packing up began. It sure came down faster than it went up much to my joy. I was tired and could not wait to get home.

Visiting Celebs

With the production company gone, the week settled back into as much of a routine as possible. No matter where I went I just could not find anything interesting. Enter Court TV. Yes, Court TV! A small company consisting of a camera man, an audio guy, a light guy and an assistant were in town to film a segment about a murder. Unfortunately or fortunately, depending on how you view it, their original location for the shoot fell through. The couple they were interviewing for the segment are residents of North Augusta therefore the TV crew had secured a location for the shoot here in town but since that one fell through they found Rosemary Hall and the show, as they say, went on.
I listened from across the foyer as they interviewed the young lady whose sister was apparently the victim or one of the victims and I heard names but not clear enough to be sure enough to print them. I asked to interview one of the crew but they declined; some legal thing is what I was told. However it was quite interesting watching them set up the lights, adjust the sound, and roll the camera on the dolly in and out depending on the shot they wanted. I hung around for a while but could gather no more useful information about the victims or the crime. Guess we will have to wait until it airs.
And it just keeps getting better. Mossy Creek Elementary hosted a children’s poet this past week. Brod Bagert, former trial attorney, former two term city councilman for New Orleans, published his first book in 1985. In 1992 he gave up the law to begin writing full time. Mr. Bagert has, to his credits, eight published books of poetry for children with the ninth, School Fever, coming out this July and five published books of poetry for adults. This all began in 1980 when he began writing poems for his children to perform. He continued writing throughout his legal career then decided he loved writing more than the constant struggle with the judicial system.
Mr. Bagert is married, has been for 37 years, 5 months and 16 days, at the time of this writing, to his high school sweetheart. He and his wife have four children ranging in age from twenty-one to thirty-five; two boys and two girls. All but one of his children resides in the New Orleans area; the youngest attends Johns Hopkins University. During hurricane Katrina the Bagerts lost their homes and had to relocate. As fate would have it they ended up within walking distance of each others house. They are a close knit family and usually can all be found at one house or the other or as he put it to me, when one cooks we all show up and yes, we talked about New Orleans food too.
Mr. Bagert’s writing style is unique. When he writes a poem it is not in his voice so-to-speak. He writes in the voice of the character. For younger children he writes in their voices always in rhythm but with subtle nuances. He thinks younger children always “get it” especially when there is a constant rhythm. For older children he also writes in rhythm, but a different type. These poems are sometimes dramatic but always capture the essence of how it is to be their age. With all ages he strives to teach reading and always in themes. His efforts won him an award for Outstanding Achievement from the Society of Educational Publishers. Also to his credit is a book about Edgar Allen Poe written for the U. S. Department of Education.
When I asked him why he wrote poetry he said, “Writing a poem is like kissing someone you love. You don’t want to show them what a good kisser you are, you want to touch their heart.”

Shooting a Commercial

Scene one. A foggy, chilly, humid morning at one of North Augusta’s foremost landmarks. The fog so thick that from the verandah, downtown was not visible. Cars begin to climb the hill and park along Carolina Avenue. Public Safety is on hand to handle the traffic and possible intruders. A truck arrives pulling a sleek silver enclosed trailer and moments later the enticing aromas of roasting chicken and pecan crusted fish fill the air. As the fog begins to lift more people arrive and begin pulling out camera equipment, lighting equipment, audio equipment and all of a sudden the area around Lookaway Hall and Calhoun Park is buzzing with humanity.
A production company from Dallas, Texas, Stone Core Films, was in town to shoot a commercial for University Health Care Systems. But before they began they sat down for lunch and I had to get a look at the food. Along with the pecan crusted fish and roasted chicken, they served steamed vegetables and a few other healthy choices. All the cooking was done in this streamlined trailer that was so narrow the two chefs inside had to turn sideways to pass each other. The catering company, Shooting Star Catering out of Atlanta, is owned by Jeff Gardner whom I spent a little time with after the noon meal was completed. Turns out this trailer was a small one compared to his others and even though some food is stored in the trailer as well as the accompanying truck, his food distributor meets him everyday wherever they may be shooting. Jeff told me that they do breakfast and lunch for the crew everyday they are on location. As soon as breakfast is over they pack up and move to the next site to start preparing the noon day meal.
I also had a chance to sit down with Stephanie Ryan, one of the production assistants to find out a little about the production company and just how shooting a commercial works and how they pick the locations. First of all location scouts are sent to the area. The scout takes photographs of location that have the right feel for the particular client they are filming for. The photos are then sent to the director, Norry Niven, who chooses the sites by his gut; by feel and beauty. He and his production staff meet with a crew from Atlanta then travel to the location, this time our area, to choose the “actors” so-to-speak for the commercial. There were no paid actors in this commercial. All participants were employees of University Health Care Systems. Among the sites they chose was Synergy Stables in Beech Island and The Heritage Inn and of course Lookaway Hall and Calhoun Park. This particular commercial was filmed from Friday the 4th through Thursday the 10th then post production starts. The film, 35 mm, goes to the editor, then to visuals, then to sound, then to color correct, music is added, special effects, logos are added and that long journey produces the rough cut which is sent to the client. The client then has the option to approve as is, make changes or disapprove. If or when approved the rough cut goes to digibeta and sent out for media buys. Once the media purchases it the spots are chosen and we get to see it in its completion. It was an exciting opportunity to watch this take place and learn how this was done.

The Older You Get

What a difference seventeen miles makes or maybe it is the difference in the people in charge and their priorities. The Aiken Chamber has a 7:30 a.m. meeting; 150 people attend, it is catered, real discussions take place and the man in charge actually joins in. At 8:30 a.m. downtown Aiken is bustling with foot traffic, stores are open and doing business, restaurants are open, downtown is prospering.
Seventeen miles away North Augusta has a Chamber meeting; seven people show up, it is held at a small table in a local restaurant and the head guy just sits there with nothing to say. What’s open? Kroger, Publix, Wal-Mart and downtown North Augusta has no foot traffic, no stores open because there are no stores to speak of, however the plethora of banks will be open at nine and construction continues on the new municipal building and the empire on the hill.
Sure there is more money in Aiken. Aiken is attracting the young professionals. Aiken is attracting many new and exciting things. Meanwhile North Augusta, while growing, is letting some of its prime real estate, its quaint southern charm, its future just go to waste. North Augusta can not ride on Augusta’s coattails, North Augusta needs its own attractions, its own identity and it needs to bring downtown back.
Yes, I know you are probably wondering to yourselves why I stay here if I criticize North Augusta. I criticize because I love North Augusta and see its potential and the potential to attract home based businesses downtown thereby attracting visitors thereby attracting the thing that makes the world go around; money. I criticize because if someone does not nothing will ever happen.
New Year’s Eve was a cacophony of fireworks all around. Someone in my neighborhood had the monsters that when fired sounded like cannons then seconds later exploded into a shower of stars with a shrill whistle. There were the standard fireworks also; the pack that can be lit individually or all at once. My neighbors tended to light them all at once. One next door, one down the street, one a street over all going off as if synchronized with a backdrop of cheers and yells. Needless to say Rabbit, my cat, was not pleased nor was Oreo; he hid under the bed and just when he thought it was safe to poke his little head out the noise started again and back under he went. I’m sure my others, Hobo, Topaz and Zipper, were diving for cover outside. That night they opted to be adventurous and explore the yard. I do not know how long the celebrations went on; I went to sleep before the New Year could greet me. Someone told me once that the older you get the faster the times goes. When you are twenty something you do not believe them. When you are something something you do. Happy New Year..

Blue Bags

This week’s subject is the blue bag. You all know the ones I refer to; the roll that appears in our yards each month by the diligent work of our Sanitation Department. I use them religiously; every single item than can be recycled goes in a blue bag to the point that my real “trash” has dwindle to almost nothing each week. I appreciate the blue bags more than most I suppose because for days or weeks after being placed in yards they sit alone and unused. It takes at least a month from the time someone moves out of a residence for the word to filter down that no one resides in certain houses so that accounts for some blue bags being left in yards but more times than not the residences are occupied and yet they sit, forlorn in a yard going to waste. If I am sure no one resides where they are I will sometimes stop and pick them up because we have implemented recycling at work and we always run out. We have so much to recycle; from empty beverage containers to acrylic plates and utensils, we rinse and recycle them all. However we tend to run out quickly. Most times I just have to make a call and someone will bring more blue bags but on this last occasion they were almost out for the year; the new supply not coming in until mid-January. Maybe we as businesses that do recycle could get the bags from those unoccupied homes or maybe we could ask them to order more for those of us who do recycle. Between the recycling and the composting we do at work and I do at home, very little is left for the landfill. How about it do you think we could order more blue bags for businesses that want to recycle?
Wine World hosted a wine and cheese tasting Friday, December 28, 2007. I had not been to a wine tasting in a while so we decided to go. Dick Benjamin, who probably knows more about wine than most of us will ever learn, poured four wines for those of us tasting. Two whites and two reds were the offering. The first was a French Brut, Saint-Hilaire Limoux 2003. It was clear, pale, bubbly, crisp and dry with just a hint of apples. It could be used for your New Year’s Eve toasting but in my humble opinion it would be best savored with fresh baked bread and a dash of Cajun mustard. Our second selection, also white, was a 2006 Voignier (White Knight) by Sabastiani Vineyards. It too was pale with a hint of lemon and pink grapefruit, a touch of cinnamon, clove and maybe a little ripe apricot. I found it a little weak on flavor but then it was very cold and maybe if brought to correct temperature it would go well with Oriental Cuisine. Next came my favorites, the big reds. Con Ta Do, Aglianico dry red from Italy 2003. It was bold, deep ruby in color, a taste of black fruit and coffee. This wine would improve if decanted to breathe for a while before drinking. It would be fabulous with roasted garlic lamb or spicy stews or aged cheeses. Finally Frei Brothers Reserve Cabernet from Alexander Valley in California (2004). Ripe, rich, jammy with a touch of vanilla and oak, a hint of tobacco and dark chocolate. All I can say is yum. Several cheeses were also out for the tasting; a Gouda with sundried tomatoes and basil, an Edam, St Andre a rich French triple cream touted to be decadently buttery and a Bleu Castello from Denmark. There was also a desert wine from South Africa, Pearly Bay, but I did not taste that one so can give you no hints to its flavor. The $2.00 charge for a Friday night tasting was money well spent.

Adoption Disaster

Sadly the venture into adoption turned into a disaster within the first three hours. Sarg and I bonded almost instantly. His personality was sweet and loving. Unfortunately the one thing Sarg decided he could not tolerate was cats. Before acquiring him I was assured by the Rescue Group in North Carolina that he got along with cats and in fact ignored them. I was told this over and over before I made the decision to adopt. Within the first three hours good old Sarg attacked a cat, destroyed my backyard irrigation set-up, turned over every single thing in the yard and climbed the fence on two separate occasions. Knowing I could no longer trust him with cats or the fact that he had major separation anxiety issues I terminated the adoption the following afternoon. Problem was I had already become very attached to the dog and he to me. When I turned him over to the kennel to await transport back to North Carolina, it was as if the wind went out of his sails. He immediately realized what was happening and looked so dejected that it broke my heart. I know most people do not think they have thoughts and feelings but I could almost hear him thinking “here we go again.” I thought I had found a home and she doesn’t want me either.” I did want him. I cried all the way home and I cried the next morning in the shower and I am choked up now writing this. Happily the cat he attacked came home unhurt and I have apologized to him a hundred times but I still feel so guilty about the dog.
Hammond Hills Elementary School has commissioned a mural for their cafeteria. The artist, Joe McKinney, sat down with me this past Friday before going back to work on the mural. Mr. McKinney told me he has been painting all of his life but has only been doing these murals for the last 10 years. He said it is quite different than painting on canvas in that the brushes are much larger and he uses good quality house paint instead of oils or acrylics. He has painted over seventy murals all in public schools in South Carolina. He sends a DVD or CD, I never can get those straight, out with eighty or ninety photos of his work on it and that is how he gets his commissions. Hammond Hills Elementary wanted something depicting the history of North Augusta as well as one of its historic landmarks; therefore they chose to have Mr. McKinney paint Lookaway Hall on their cafeteria wall. The school thought, as did Mr. McKinney, that in order to get the true feel of the place he should stay in the house while here.
Mr. McKinney is married and has a twenty-seven year old daughter who sometimes accompanies him on these trips to help with the painting. He teaches classes at Holmes Bible College in Greenville, South Carolina. During summer break he spends most of his time traveling our state painting his murals. He was here this time of year because the school was out for two weeks over the holidays. He is a soft-spoken, intelligent and interesting man.
This week also brought a few folks from across the Pond. I did not get as much time with them as I would have liked but did learn a few interesting things.
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What North Augusta Wants

The list of wants for North Augusta, while interesting, was also some what puzzling. Many of us wanted more options for retail experiences, Barnes & Noble, Target etc., surprisingly Bed Bath and Beyond did not appear in the list. Whole Foods would be nice, Sam’s a big thumb’s up on that one and yes, more dining establishments need to be offered. What puzzled me were the choices of “fine dining”. I was not aware that Macaroni Grill, Fatz Café or Outback Steakhouse was listed under a fine dining experience. When I think of fine dining La Maison on Telfair comes to mind or NOLA or Emeril’s or Hokusai in Los Angeles. Each of these types of dining establishments offer an extensive wine list, original menu choices and an atmosphere unsurpassed by a chain “store” such as a Macaroni Grill. As for a place to go for lunch that serves a bowl of homemade soup and an excellent side sandwich, North Augustans just have to look up on the hill at Lookaway Bistro. Not only do they serve a fine lunch but the atmosphere is as close to fine dining as one can get without the wine list yet as casual and inviting as your olde time drug store.
Have any of you been to Artistic Floral lately? It is a virtual wonderland of Christmas trees. Kim and Donna have gone above and beyond your traditional tree to bring a bit of whimsy and sparkle to this holiday season. The pink tree is a must see as are the unique decorations and arrangements throughout the store. If you are not in the spirit yet go by and take a look; you soon will be.
While we are on the subject of trees the Lion’s Club has an idea for next year’s Christmas season. They are considering asking each business to decorate and display a tree that reflects their unique talents, business and holiday spirit. The trees will be displayed in a central location, yet to be determined, and then judged by a panel for originality etc. At the end of the judging the trees will be auctioned with proceeds going to the Lion’s Club. What do you think North Augusta? Would you be willing to participate?
There is a new addition to my family. I have adopted! Yes, I have adopted an 80lb Rottweiler who took exactly 10 minutes to win my heart.

Wal-Mart

I loathe our Wal-Mart, you know that, but this morning when I got there it was not crowded therefore there were fewer looky loos which meant fewer shoppers to get angry with. I managed to find everything I needed in about 15 to 20 minutes because I had to look to see what was new and different since my last shopping trip in the grocery section. I added the stuff up as I went to make sure I had enough cash, spending my tip money on baking supplies for friends, and even picked up a few things not on my list. Spent less than anticipated and if I don't get any more brilliant ideas I am done shopping for their baked goods. Now comes the fun part; getting out of the store!! 15 days before Christmas; 3 regular check-outs open, all filled with the few people who buy for the month and three 20 items or less aisles open. Unfortunately I could not go in the 20 or less so I was stuck behind Jane and John let's buy everything in the store that is not nailed down and a woman with two carts filled to the brim. Jane and John Lbeitstinnd, took their sweet time. They had to go over each item again as if it was something new and had just that moment appeared in their cart by magic. Finally old two carts starts unloading. She could not unload as Jane and John finished because there were no dividers on our aisle. This woman bought every can of peas on the shelf, every pack of Ramen noodles, 10 packages of bacon, 10 or more packs of hot dogs, tons of orange juice, milk, snacks, meat; you name it she bought it. Finally down to the last few items and she just walks off so there we are, three or four deep behind her, just waiting. Finally she strolls back with a bottle of Pepsi and proceeds to pay. $249 plus dollars she spent. My turn arrives. I unload fast so as not to hold up the folks behind me any longer than necessary when my clerk tells them they have opened a new check-out on 12. Fifteen to twenty minutes to shop, forty long minutes standing in line waiting to get out. What is wrong with this picture?

Christmas 2007 and Fashion

Bravo!! Splendid!! The two best adjectives to describe the Lion’s Club charity fashion show held this past Thursday night. Although the show itself and earning money for the Lion’s Club was the main focus, I thought I’d give you a different perspective; the one behind the scenes.
The venue was spotless. Fifty chairs set up in the foyer all with perfect views. Christmas decorations added a welcoming ambiance as did the smell wafting from the kitchen and the hot cider warmer. The models began arriving around five o’clock. The very pretty very tiny models all made up beautifully by the Clinique people at Belk’s of North Augusta. If you, as a woman, have ever felt the slightest bit intimidated by someone small and beautiful, let me assure you it would have happened again when you saw these girls. Thankfully they all were not size 4, some of the models were normal like us.
As soon as they began to arrive the director, Harvey, began putting them through their paces. He instructed them on how to descend the stairs, how to walk the circle and how to pose before exiting. Then came the clothes secretly whisked up the back stairs so no one would get a glimpse before the show. There was hustle and bustle out front, hustle and bustle inside and hustle and bustle in the kitchen. At seven the food went out and the social hour began. At eight all guests were in their seats ready for the show to begin. Dr. Joyce Haskell was the first to be introduced, a Lion, the organizer and giver of door prizes. From there the designer, Sho Ann, descended the main stair case, spoke a few minutes before introducing the host and hostess of the event, Larry and Rhonda Conner. The fashion show began, the audience loved it, the girls were beautiful and with any luck another larger event such as this one will take place this Valentine’s Day. Meanwhile in the back, the models were scurrying up to the changing rooms to don another fabulous dress. More food was laying in warm waiting for the event to conclude and another wave of hungry guest to descend on the dining room. It was a beautiful event; the guest appeared to have a good time and marveled at the beautiful jewelry provided by Lynn Thompson that was worn to accent the main attraction; the lovely dresses worn by the beautiful models.
Conspicuous consumption has been and always will be one of my pet peeves. Therefore I must commend the City of North Augusta for not being in the group that gets my goat. The Christmas tree for our city was not a huge old growth tree chopped down in the prime of its life and brought in to out decorate “the Joneses”. Our tree grows naturally in our park and is carefully decorated each year. It may not be as large or as done as our neighbors, who by the way, did cut down a huge tree again for the season, but at least we preserved a living thing and used what we have. Unlike the conspicuous consumption of our neighbors and our nation’s capital, we did not destroy a beautiful resource in order to out shine the world. Our tree can be seen by all, enjoyed by all and again, unlike the decorations in D.C. that we as taxpayers pay for, we do not have to be invited to partake of the loveliness.

Seven Gables a.,k.a. Palmetto House

Ever since the old Seven Gables was repossessed or what ever the government calls it when illegal activities force the closing of a place, maybe confiscation who knows, I have wanted someone to do something spectacular with it. Well let me tell you Robin Dunn has worked magic in that place. The last time I was in the building was 1996. It was dark and creepy but no more. The Palmetto House, as it is now called, sparkles from within. I made an impromptu stop the other day and was greeted by Cassandra Elam, the hostess, who was gracious enough to give me a tour and fill me in on some of the details.
The two larger meeting/dining/event rooms are on the main floor. They are named for Mrs. Dunn’s two sons Chandler and Cameron. The Cameron Suite can hold 40-70 people seated while the Chandler Suite from my perspective was a bit smaller. There are rooms upstairs; offices and additional meeting/dining spaces. One of those rooms will have access to a balcony area when it is complete but now it holds tall four person tables and a smaller more intimate room for maybe a gentleman’s gaming room is next to it. The Timber Trace room is the perfect venue for the guys to get together to watch football. There is also a room they call the Bridal Suite which comes with a full bath and bedroom although at present no one can spend the night. It is more for the bride to change into her gown or going away clothes, however, the attached bedroom gives one the feeling of being at home rather than a wedding or reception venue. Back downstairs there is a full commercial kitchen and all that that infers. At present The Palmetto House does not use the kitchen themselves for events. All events there are catered. Off the Chandler end, near the kitchen, a full bar has been added but is only in use during events. Outside there is seating for 50-60 under a covered porch with the only drawback being the noise from traffic on Georgia Avenue. They have even spruced up the run down motel like building in the back adding to the feel of history from the place. Although I did not stay long I managed to find out the house was built in 1903 but if you, like I, are interested in finding out more about The Palmetto House, tune into HGTV, during If Walls Could Talk, I am sure some of its history will be revealed. Since writing this column the lovely old building has burned to the ground leaving nothing but a few charred remains.
I hope you all enjoyed a wonderful Thanksgiving with your family and friends. I hope your holiday meal was fabulous and I also hope you did not wear yourselves out on Black Friday chasing all the sales. Remember, those of you that are old enough, when the holidays meant kitchens full of goodies, family, homemade gifts, football and many naps? For the life of me I have never understood the need to leave the comfort of home for crushing crowds, snarled traffic, short tempers and sore feet just to save a few bucks or chase the next fad. Homemade, to me, comes from the heart; a gift of love.

Restaurant Pigs

My neighborhood, for the most part, is a sea of duplex townhouses. They are well maintained both inside and out and with few exceptions in the last nine years, the renters have been quiet and law abiding. The most amazing phenomena to occur is that I rarely see when the people move out or for that matter move in. One day they are there; the next they are gone. It is hard to believe that you could miss someone loading their belongings into vehicles when they live directly across the street but it happens all the time. One good thing about these townhouses is that they rent as fast as the signs go up. A couple of weeks ago there was a domestic disturbance that drew the attention of neighbors. One left; one stayed. However, true to form, they ended up in the same situation a week later. What is it with women who would rather suffer the beatings and or verbal abuse than be alone especially if they are the only financial support and the guy is living off her earnings while he sits home on his cell all day doing nothing? When are women going to learn that they do not need someone else to make them whole?
For the past couple of weeks I have had occasion to visit local eating establishments and I must convey my amazement at what I observed. When most people dine out they are, for the lack of a better word, pigs and I mean no disrespect to the pigs. Maybe it is because they have someone waiting on them that they feel they can strew food and drink wherever they desire knowing they don’t have to clean it up. Maybe they are just tired of cleaning up after children with no discipline so it’s ok to let someone else do it. Yes the wait staff is there to work for them but that does not mean it is fine to take advantage of the situation. The strange thing is those that leave the biggest messes for the workers to clean up seem to tip the least. Quite frankly it is disgusting and makes an observer, like me, wonder if they leave their own houses in such messes after a meal. What happened to discipline? What happened to courtesy? Why do people feel they can mistreat wait staff just because they are paying for a meal? Previous experiences with the ladies who lunched were immaculate so this took me by surprise. The winner of the “let’s leave a mess contest” was a table of nine; six adults, three children. For the most part the adults ignored the kids. They sat back chugging their beers while the kids screamed and threw food at each other. The mother of one dumped candy all over the table then walked out. As I said they had been drinking but they thought it was ok to drive the children home after three or four beers. I don’t get it at all. The children of my era never misbehaved in public and if they did they knew what was coming; today’s children do as they please; following examples maybe?

AT&T

AT&T/Verizon March 2010; turned down an $7.2 Billion in government stimulus money because there were strings attached and they did not want to be controlled by the government. AT&T also asked the government not to “bailout” other phone and internet providers, hoping, I guess, that by not helping the others it would cut out some competition. No need to wonder why they did not want any government control when you ride down Shoreline Drive. AT&T has leased twenty-eight (28) houses at the River Club. The going rate is anywhere from $1200 to $1500 per day for 10 days. That averages out to $1350 per day for 10 days for 28 houses which is a grand total of $37,800 per day and for a total for the ten days of $378,000 but that isn’t all. Each house has their electric bill and water bill paid for the entire month, complimentary baskets, flowers, copious amounts of alcohol and other amenities are left for the returning homeowner. That still doesn’t put a dent in what they spend. A huge hard-sided tent has been erected; at least 150 feet long and I don’t know how wide, ice sculptures, golf carts, electricity, caterers, servers, gifts for their guest, alcohol, enormous amounts of food, entertainment and the list goes on. It would be easy to imagine all the hidden fees AT&T subscribers pay are footing a bill of at least $750,000.00 for their guest to enjoy a golf tournament. Conspicuous consumption doesn’t even cover it. As one person said to me, “it is infuriating to see what they spend on frivolous things like this when that money could help so many people.” Maybe they could ask Uncle Sam to take the $7.2 billion in stimulus money and help every day struggling families and not to a corporation that spends it to show off.

Green Monsters

Maybe some people do have a case for leaving those green eyesores on the curb each week, (Mary Cashon Jones) and for those who are infirmed or alone or a little too old to manage the monsters I say leave them there. However, when a household has a healthy teenage son or a stay at home dad or a live in boyfriend who just happens to work for the city, you’d think they could manage the two minutes it would take to pull that nasty thing back into the yard. If there are people out there who can not manage this task due to the above mentioned maladies, then their neighbors should step up or at the very least the city should take steps to help these citizens who can not help themselves.
The Family Y of Augusta is not only known for the work they do but for the unique fundraisers they come up with. For some years they were selling raffle tickets for $100 each and giving away a house. On one or two occasions they sold tickets to win a brand new car. I never heard who won any of the prizes but I often wondered if they screened the ticket buyers, maybe made little notations on the tickets to designate who would be suitable for a house in West Lake or could actually afford a new Mercedes. My cynical side rearing its ugly head again. However, this time the fund raiser is something that people can actually enjoy together and as far as I can tell is unique to Georgia or South Carolina. They are planning a “Dinner Train”. People, meaning those who may be able to afford it, will purchase tickets to board a train and be served an amazing meal paired with amazing wine prepared by a local chef while chugging along in a dining car. What a wonderful exclusive experience this could be. If any of you have ever visited the NAPA Valley and ridden the wine train it would be similar to that without, of course, the vineyards or the stops to sample the wine. The board member who came up with this one should be celebrated and I for one hope she pulls this off; it would be a ton of fun while supporting a good cause.
In so much as we have our own Family Y, it being unclear from the information I gleaned whether they are affiliated or not, I put in a call or two to get their take on this dinner train and to see if ours was involved in any way. Sadly I can tell you nothing. The young lady who answered the phone, although very nice, had no clue about any affiliation or any involvement but she did transfer me to a voice mail of someone named Brianna. I left my message, gave her both home and work number, but she did not return that call nor did she return the subsequent call therefore I can only assume that she too knows nothing or does not care enough to tell anyone.
By now you are all aware of where I work and will no doubt think this is another attempt to get free promotion for my place of employment but let me assure you it is not. It does involve where I work and it involves other historic buildings in our area but that is where the reason for the inclusion stops. Certain businesses across the CSRA use the likenesses of buildings on the Historic Register to make a profit. I suppose they think that since the buildings have been around forever they are public domain whether privately owned or not. There is a place across the river that sells pen and inks of some of these historic sites, without permission I might add, as well as other souvenirs depicting the same sites. There are places in town that have depictions of historic buildings in their ads or on their walls or hanging in their stores for sale for profit, again without permission. Unlike the Augusta National where it is expressly forbidden to use their logo or sell its likeness without permission, these businesses have taken it upon themselves to make a profit from something that does not belong to them. I am curious, do you think this is right?

Master's Week

It's that time of year again when our area is packed with pro golfers and fans. If you ride around North Augusta and Augusta you'd never think the economy was in the toilet. AT&T has taken over one huge area in our local golf course community and it has taken them two weeks to do it and countless dollars. Our two landmark houses; Rosemary and Lookaway Halls has been leased by Zack Johnson's sponsors and the electric bill alone would support a few families for months. When I was a lot younger it used to be easy to get in the Augusta National to see the play and the players but just like the Super Bowl it has become an event for the elite and the people with money which don't always go hand in hand. The week they are all here, players and fans, thousands of dollars are pumped into the economy which, by all reports, is all that the politicians in Augusta care about. The entire county looks like trash city until the few weeks before the out-of-towners arrive then a huge effort is made to "clean it up" for the guest. The most amusing part of that is if they fly in to our airport the road into Augusta proper is dotted with hovels and abandoned buildings and cheap prostitute motels and flea markets so that is the first impression Augusta gives to visitors. Of course the areas surrounding the National Golf Course are pristine. 99% of all businesses in town raise their prices for this event which just goes to show greed is alive and well.

I will say this however, I wish I could make the rounds of all the houses who brought their own chefs or hired the cream of the crop just to see and taste what they are cooking. Two years ago one company spent 45 thousand on catering for 6 days; can you imagine that.

Dinner Theater

Given that attending a play a few months ago at the Fort Gordon Theatre was such a pleasant experience, we decided to go again. This play was an adaptation of Gas Light which originally starred Bette Davis, or so I was informed. Frankly I can not see her in this part. She always played such strong female characters ; this one was not. The play was Angel Street and for those of you not familiar with Gas Light it was a cad of a husband married (or so she thought) to a wimp of a woman, living in a house where a murder had been committed fifteen years prior. Two maids; one older, loyal, protective, the other a strumpet if you will, intent on catching the master of the house for herself. The final character was an over-the-hill detective, retired, still working the case because he could not solve it when it originally happened.
As soon as the husband came on stage you hated him and as soon as wimp wife opened her mouth you hated her but the plot was good and in the end the crime was solved and everyone lived happily ever after.
When first we attended the dinner theatre, we were impressed with the food, however, a different catering company won the bid for this one and we were not impressed. They almost ran out of food; no one was there to replace salad dressings, croutons or anything else as it was depleted. They prepared Parmesan Crusted Cod, overcooked with the only taste being the Parmesan. Baked Chicken and the old standby the beef roast with potatoes gratin, steamed vegetables, rolls, no butter, horseradish and something they tried to pass as Béarnaise sauce. The potatoes were fabulous and after seasoning, the vegetables were passable. The chocolate cake from Sam‘s, one dessert among many, was very good. What a disappointment the entire evening turned out to be. Maybe you just can not go back once you’ve been.
One day you are refilling the feeder twice a day to quench the insatiable appetite of your ruby-throated little friend and his harem and the next day they are gone. Early Spring you anticipate their arrival then one day they are there hovering at the kitchen window wondering where the nectar is. They bring pleasure from arrival to departure. The wonder of how they consume so much for their size or how they helicopter in one place or have no fear whatsoever of the cats or how they dive bomb you when you are outside or zoom within inches of your face or just sit and watch you from a perch. It becomes a habit waiting for the sun to come up in order to watch them feed. The lizards also partake of the nectar and unless you have your feeder in a special location, the opossums will suck it dry. Evidently that internal warning or clock has gone off because my little Hummingbirds have flown the coop.
The plastic surgeon of cities is working his magic once again in our fair town. I can not wait until the bandages come off to see what beauty he wrought.

Trash Bins and Dog Walkers

Ten years ago, after I purchased my house, the Sanitation Department taught me a lesson that I have never forgotten. Ten years ago if you left your city provided trash receptacle out on the street for a period of 24 to 48 hours after trash pick up, your trash receptacle got a little red sticker denoting your laziness and warning that if you did it more than three times you were out of luck for a place to put your trash. Three red stickers and it was gone to trash receptacle storage to wait for a more deserving home. Today, it seems, the rules have changed. Today, meaning this period in time, one can leave the jolly green trash eater out for as long as one wishes with no fear of a reprimand. Red stickers only appear on receptacles of those who are new to the neighborhood thereby giving a free pass to those who continually decorate the street with their large green trash bins. Some are so lazy that they would rather walk to the street and dump the trash in the bins rather than take the extra effort to pull it up into their yards. Granted, they are not the most attractive things in the world and it is hard to find a suitable spot for them in the yard but better in the yard than on the street from trash day to trash day.
And speaking of trash the early morning coolness brings out the fitness buffs/dog walkers. Most dog owners are responsible people, keeping their charges off other people’s lawns, but some seem to think it is just fine to let Muffy or Rover relieve themselves anywhere they please. They have no regard for the property of their neighbors or maybe they think leaving little surprises on the lawns is a nice thing to do. One less pile to pick up out of their yards I suppose; if they even clean their yards. One thing you can not fault them on is abiding by the leash law. Every pet, save one, is always on a leash as they stroll down the sidewalks and streets of our area. Unlike my neighborhood where Pit Bulls roam free and semi-Pekinese explore the area. Do not bother calling Animal Control. They say they can’t do anything about it unless they see it happening. I certainly do not want the animals picked up and destroyed; I would, however, like to have the law enforced to keep them from being run over for one thing and for another keep them out of our yards.
The following is an excerpt from an article in the Tulsa newspaper about Dr. Watke and his group and their innovative approach to religion. I emailed the author asking for permission to use it, however, he never answered so I’m using it anyway.
“And many of our churches that are growing are swapping members instead of penetrating the unchurched in society.” Watke agreed. “Evangelical churches are declining across the country,” he said. “Members are aging. It’s a reasonable expectation that 60 to 70 percent of our churches will close in the next 20 years.”
About 20 percent of Americans are in church on a given Sunday, he said. “People want to be spiritual, but not religious. “They are asking the right questions, and the church has the answers, about their relationship with self, with society and with God. “But they don’t see the church as having the answers, because the church is focused on the organizational, the trappings,” Watke said.
The pattern Watke is teaching is similar to the pattern used by the apostle Paul to reach diverse people groups, he said. It also is similar to the marketing strategies of businesses.
“We’re not marketing the church. You can’t sell Jesus. But you can develop relationships, to reach people for Christ,” Watke said. “God made us social beings. He knew that people create groupings.
His commission to us is to penetrate, to invade those people groups. “The reality is, people tend to live
among people who are like them,” he said. Realtors have found that people looking for a house will gravitate to neighborhoods that are like the neighborhoods they came from. Without even thinking about it, they feel comfortable there, he said. Pastors in the program will identify the people groups in the area around their churches, using block-by-block grids of data. Pastors also will identify the people
groups in their own churches, those who most easily can reach the people groups in the community. And then they will develop strategies to develop relationships with people in those groups. Cruce said the program is open to any evangelical church. “This thing is really catching on,” he said. “A number of churches have called that want to be part of it. We want to work with anyone who wants to do kingdom work.
TRACKING THE NEOTRIBES
Churches will begin locating new members via a well-researched “neotribal culture.” The local Top 10 tribes are:
Lower Income Essentials
“leisure spending allotted to premium cable”
Hardy Rural Families
“watch auto racing via satellite dishes”
Stable Careers
“tune into Spanish, black and sports radio”
Steadfast Conservatives
“eighty percent are homeowners”
Industrious Country Living
“not avid computer or internet fans”
New Suburbia Families
“rely on catalogues for apparel”
Small Town Success
“drive late-model SUVs”
Urban Commuter Families
“dine out regularly at steak restaurants”
Small Town Endeavors
“nearly half earn less than $25,000”
Young Cosmopolitans
“read epicurean and travel magazines”
This is sociology at its best.