Mr. Schaeffer:
This concerns your question about Mr. Hammonds. For your information, please understand that he is a retired Lieutenant-Commander of the U S Coast Guard and is currently employed by the state of North Carolina as a state and county Veterans Service Officer. As you've already been told, his office is in the same building as the Elections office and the signs will direct you to it as you enter the building. Each Veterans Service Officer is a knowledgable individual who knows their way around the VA system. Their job is to assist any veteran and their families with any matter concerning their rights and benefits. They can you with compensation/pensions, medical care, military care, military records, grave markers and veteran home loans.
I can't remember any body in the military ever helping me with my pension like the Veterans Assistance Officer from Harnett County did. I would highly recommend that if you have any questions concerning your military duties or whatever, give him a call one day. You won't be sorry you did.
Guestbook
wrote on 07/22/2017 at 6:30 pm:
wrote on 07/21/2017 at 10:53 pm:
GC-- Is Mr. Hammonds acting in any way in an official capacity as a veteran's advisor?? Regardless, someone who KNOWS something about 'the system', and can help a veteran navigate his way thru it, is an invaluable help to a veteran in need. Also, are you aware that there is a group represented in Bladen County, known as the Employer Support for the Guard and the Reserve? ESGR is an advocacy organization that works on behalf of veterans, in order to ensure that employers are aware of the employment potential of returning veterans, in addition to heightening their awareness of state and Federal laws that may affect their re-employability. Useful stuff to know!
wrote on 07/21/2017 at 10:16 am:
@WSchaeffer-first of all he is located in the Board of Elections building in Elizabethtown behind the Post Office. Would not dare tell you what Larry can do for you as a veteran, but if it can be done and is available and the veteran is eligible; Larry is the man to see. Believe he is in his office only about two days each week, but loves to help veterans get any benefits they are eligible for. I do know this, that based on articles in magazines that apply to veterans; benefits are changing all the time so it behooves veterans to drop by and see Larry.
wrote on 07/21/2017 at 12:54 am:
GC -- how about telling me some more about Larry Hammonds, and what he is able to do for veterans, here in Bladen County????
wrote on 07/20/2017 at 1:46 pm:
@ Johnny Anderson-good to hear you enjoyed the Committee of 100 meeting. Had it not been on prayer meeting night, I would have love to have been there. Glad to hear a lot of good ideas were presented, hopefully they will shortly be put to work for the betterment of Mother Bladen.
How about Senator Thom Tillis helping bring $357,947,000 to North Carolina in FY 2018 through the National Defense Authorization Act. Great job. This brings to mind a public servant here in Bladen County that has brought numerous millions of dollars to the economy of BLADEN COUNTY down through the years. He has done a wonderful job for VETERANS in his position. A tip of the hat to Larry Hammonds in his position to help VETERANS in Bladen County. His work presents us a great truth; someone who has been there and done that knows much better "how to do" and "what to do" than someone who does not have that experience.
How about Senator Thom Tillis helping bring $357,947,000 to North Carolina in FY 2018 through the National Defense Authorization Act. Great job. This brings to mind a public servant here in Bladen County that has brought numerous millions of dollars to the economy of BLADEN COUNTY down through the years. He has done a wonderful job for VETERANS in his position. A tip of the hat to Larry Hammonds in his position to help VETERANS in Bladen County. His work presents us a great truth; someone who has been there and done that knows much better "how to do" and "what to do" than someone who does not have that experience.
wrote on 07/19/2017 at 9:53 pm:
Thank you Chuck Heustess and staff for putting together a very informative Committee of 100 meeting! The speaker gave us some very good advice. I hope we can put it to good use.
wrote on 07/19/2017 at 12:39 am:
The very premise which the Freedom From Religion Foundation uses to promote itself proves that it is a fraud. This far-Left, radical, and extremist organization claims to ‘promote non-theism, and defend the constitutional separation between religion and government.’ It describes itself as an organization of ‘freethinkers’, and on its About FFRF page, it notes the many (purported) accomplishments which ONLY freethinkers could have accomplished, such as euthanasia, abortion, and the end of slavery.
This is sheer nonsense, because the most rational, compassionate, and free-thinking thought regarding those odious issues, historically, has come from the pulpit, not from the ‘enlightened’ purveyors of progressive wisdom from On High whom we see infesting the liberal mainstream media of today.
On its website the FFRF briefly discusses its purpose, and touts its accomplishments thru-out the nation in ‘persuading’ schools, businesses, and government entities to steer extremely clear of anything which has even the slightest whiff of religion about it. What this foundation REALLY is, is an organization of malcontents with law degrees who intimidates, threatens, and bullies anyone whom THEY consider a member of the ‘religious Right’—whom they deem a hysterical threat to the very existence of mankind! They make a big point out of being supporters of the First Amendment, and of preserving the ‘Jeffersonian ‘wall of separation’ between church and state’, but nothing could be further from the truth. Their goal is to remove any semblance of religion in America, and to make the free exercise of it a criminal act.
What this organization fails to acknowledge—perhaps deliberately so—is that the First Amendment does not prohibit—in any way, shape, or form—the notion that a government body (be it local, state, or Federal) or a business, or a school, has every right to acknowledge or recognize a religion—no matter what that religion is. It has every right to applaud its merits, its history, its festivals, its music—anything at all which it finds noteworthy. What it can NOT do is endorse it. It cannot, in any way, suggest that it become the nationally-endorsed, legally sanctioned, religion of the state. It cannot make that religion the ‘official’ religion of the realm, so to speak. Do you see the difference??? This is what worried the early colonists of America, and which is what prompted a letter from Thomas Jefferson to the Danbury Baptists in Massachusetts in 1802. They feared that their denomination would be criminalized, and a state-sponsored religion (such as the Church of England) become mandated by law. Jefferson reassured them that it would not.
It was Chief Justice Hugo Black who, in his review of Everson v. Board of Education (1947), that created the misinterpreted mess which the ACLU and groups like the FFRF have latched onto ever since in their efforts to remove any semblance of religion from the public sphere. ‘That wall," the justices concluded in a sweeping separationist declaration, "must be kept high and impregnable. We could not approve the slightest breach." The rest, as they say, is history, and far-Leftists have used this misinterpretation ever since to bludgeon and intimidate Americans into believing that NO religious influence whatsoever can be allowed outside of a church building. As I pointed out earlier, this is complete nonsense, and not in keeping with the spirit or the intent of Jefferson’s letter.
The logo on the side of our local law enforcement’s vehicles is entirely acceptable within the scope of the law, and history and constitutional principle support it. Threats, intimidation, and shrill and angry outrage from agenda-driven radical Leftists is unacceptable, and no community should be forced to feel cowed, defeated, or beaten down because of their hateful and arrogant presumptions. The logos need to stay.
This is sheer nonsense, because the most rational, compassionate, and free-thinking thought regarding those odious issues, historically, has come from the pulpit, not from the ‘enlightened’ purveyors of progressive wisdom from On High whom we see infesting the liberal mainstream media of today.
On its website the FFRF briefly discusses its purpose, and touts its accomplishments thru-out the nation in ‘persuading’ schools, businesses, and government entities to steer extremely clear of anything which has even the slightest whiff of religion about it. What this foundation REALLY is, is an organization of malcontents with law degrees who intimidates, threatens, and bullies anyone whom THEY consider a member of the ‘religious Right’—whom they deem a hysterical threat to the very existence of mankind! They make a big point out of being supporters of the First Amendment, and of preserving the ‘Jeffersonian ‘wall of separation’ between church and state’, but nothing could be further from the truth. Their goal is to remove any semblance of religion in America, and to make the free exercise of it a criminal act.
What this organization fails to acknowledge—perhaps deliberately so—is that the First Amendment does not prohibit—in any way, shape, or form—the notion that a government body (be it local, state, or Federal) or a business, or a school, has every right to acknowledge or recognize a religion—no matter what that religion is. It has every right to applaud its merits, its history, its festivals, its music—anything at all which it finds noteworthy. What it can NOT do is endorse it. It cannot, in any way, suggest that it become the nationally-endorsed, legally sanctioned, religion of the state. It cannot make that religion the ‘official’ religion of the realm, so to speak. Do you see the difference??? This is what worried the early colonists of America, and which is what prompted a letter from Thomas Jefferson to the Danbury Baptists in Massachusetts in 1802. They feared that their denomination would be criminalized, and a state-sponsored religion (such as the Church of England) become mandated by law. Jefferson reassured them that it would not.
It was Chief Justice Hugo Black who, in his review of Everson v. Board of Education (1947), that created the misinterpreted mess which the ACLU and groups like the FFRF have latched onto ever since in their efforts to remove any semblance of religion from the public sphere. ‘That wall," the justices concluded in a sweeping separationist declaration, "must be kept high and impregnable. We could not approve the slightest breach." The rest, as they say, is history, and far-Leftists have used this misinterpretation ever since to bludgeon and intimidate Americans into believing that NO religious influence whatsoever can be allowed outside of a church building. As I pointed out earlier, this is complete nonsense, and not in keeping with the spirit or the intent of Jefferson’s letter.
The logo on the side of our local law enforcement’s vehicles is entirely acceptable within the scope of the law, and history and constitutional principle support it. Threats, intimidation, and shrill and angry outrage from agenda-driven radical Leftists is unacceptable, and no community should be forced to feel cowed, defeated, or beaten down because of their hateful and arrogant presumptions. The logos need to stay.
wrote on 07/18/2017 at 9:50 pm:
Thank you to Charlotte Smith for informing the citizens of Bladen County about the letter that Sheriff Jim McVicker received regarding "In God We Trust" being on the vehicles the Sheriff's Department uses. An even greater thank you to Sheriff McVicker for his response to the letter. God bless you Jim, God bless the men and women of your department, and God bless NC and the USA; for God, indeed we do trust in you. Thank God we still live in a country where we can believe in God.
I certainly urge all residents of Bladen County to let Sheriff McVicker know we love and appreciate him. There is a special blessing for the peacemakers.
I certainly urge all residents of Bladen County to let Sheriff McVicker know we love and appreciate him. There is a special blessing for the peacemakers.
wrote on 07/18/2017 at 12:53 pm:
Kudos to Desmond Bryant for hosting his football camp in Bladen County again this year. As a positive role model for our youth, the camp provided an opportunity for kids to see and meet "one of our own" who has done well.
Enjoyed conversing with Desmond Friday night at Melton's Restaurant.
Thanks for caring Desmond!
Enjoyed conversing with Desmond Friday night at Melton's Restaurant.
Thanks for caring Desmond!
wrote on 07/14/2017 at 3:52 pm:
Mr. Jackson
A lot of good points you make about what's going on in E-town. About our young people giving two years to our nation after they get out of high school, I'd vote for that in a heart beat for I have been there and know about the discipline that it instills in the lives of young people and the love of country that it helps to continue to help grow in our young people. Even the ones who seem to be doing well, they would be doing even better with love of country and patriotism bolstered in their lives. It is a shame that when a young person wants to serve our nation in the arm forces that they are denied the right. Just a slight ear problem will keep a young person out of the armed services today. I thank God I have had one son who served and currently have two grandsons serving, one in the Army and one in the Marine Corp. There is one thing for sure, these jokers running around mistreating our flag and speaking unbelievable things about the country and our President haven't been in a third world country serving under our flag. At its worst, the United States of America is still the greatest country on the face of the earth. Those who served in World War I, World War ll, Korea, Vietnam, and all the conflicts in the Middle East( still serving) deserve the very best treatment from our nation that can be given them.
I do believe that mankind can change and it would be a wonderful sight to see the other suggestions I made concerning your friend to be joined by a parade through the streets of Elizabethtown honoring him and all Veterans who have served our country. God help us to be mindful of the freedoms we all enjoy because of the men and women who served and died that we could witness a parade in their honor here in Mother Bladen.
A lot of good points you make about what's going on in E-town. About our young people giving two years to our nation after they get out of high school, I'd vote for that in a heart beat for I have been there and know about the discipline that it instills in the lives of young people and the love of country that it helps to continue to help grow in our young people. Even the ones who seem to be doing well, they would be doing even better with love of country and patriotism bolstered in their lives. It is a shame that when a young person wants to serve our nation in the arm forces that they are denied the right. Just a slight ear problem will keep a young person out of the armed services today. I thank God I have had one son who served and currently have two grandsons serving, one in the Army and one in the Marine Corp. There is one thing for sure, these jokers running around mistreating our flag and speaking unbelievable things about the country and our President haven't been in a third world country serving under our flag. At its worst, the United States of America is still the greatest country on the face of the earth. Those who served in World War I, World War ll, Korea, Vietnam, and all the conflicts in the Middle East( still serving) deserve the very best treatment from our nation that can be given them.
I do believe that mankind can change and it would be a wonderful sight to see the other suggestions I made concerning your friend to be joined by a parade through the streets of Elizabethtown honoring him and all Veterans who have served our country. God help us to be mindful of the freedoms we all enjoy because of the men and women who served and died that we could witness a parade in their honor here in Mother Bladen.
wrote on 07/13/2017 at 6:26 pm:
Greetings to one and all:
Mr. Bryan:
I know you mean well and God knows I wish we had many more in this town that thought as you do. But do you seriously believe that the town management cares a rats rear about their employees? Oh sure, as long as they do exactly as they're told, every thing is alright. But don't you dare stand up to one of them or challenge them because if you do, that will probably be your last day on the job. Word has it that the town came out with a new booklet recently that basically requires the employees to do more with fewer benefits. Good for the town, not so good for the employees.
It's true that people have to work, but do they have to be treated like dirt just because they're not as educated as others.
It's a crying shame that some people in this town look down on others. It's also a crying shame that the only thing they can brag about is what college or university their kids will attend or graduated from, as if that was some kind of litmus test to be a human being. For this country to survive, it needs the best and the brightest people working for it both in the civilian and the military communities. Once again, I challenge you people to ask your parents one or all of these questions-"What have you done for this country?" "Did you serve in Vietnam?" "Were you a member of the peace corps?" "Since you graduated from high school, have you ever done anything that made this country better?"
How much better could our country be if like the State of Israel, we required every man and woman or boy and girl graduating from high school first give their country two years of their lives before going off to college or looking for a job? No deferments, like those used to keep those people with money or connections in this town from serving in Vietnam and every war or conflict since then. I submit that it would be country unlike any that came before it or any that may come in the future. Sadly, in my opinion, that will never happen. Patriotism is dead. God help us all.
Mr. Bryan:
I know you mean well and God knows I wish we had many more in this town that thought as you do. But do you seriously believe that the town management cares a rats rear about their employees? Oh sure, as long as they do exactly as they're told, every thing is alright. But don't you dare stand up to one of them or challenge them because if you do, that will probably be your last day on the job. Word has it that the town came out with a new booklet recently that basically requires the employees to do more with fewer benefits. Good for the town, not so good for the employees.
It's true that people have to work, but do they have to be treated like dirt just because they're not as educated as others.
It's a crying shame that some people in this town look down on others. It's also a crying shame that the only thing they can brag about is what college or university their kids will attend or graduated from, as if that was some kind of litmus test to be a human being. For this country to survive, it needs the best and the brightest people working for it both in the civilian and the military communities. Once again, I challenge you people to ask your parents one or all of these questions-"What have you done for this country?" "Did you serve in Vietnam?" "Were you a member of the peace corps?" "Since you graduated from high school, have you ever done anything that made this country better?"
How much better could our country be if like the State of Israel, we required every man and woman or boy and girl graduating from high school first give their country two years of their lives before going off to college or looking for a job? No deferments, like those used to keep those people with money or connections in this town from serving in Vietnam and every war or conflict since then. I submit that it would be country unlike any that came before it or any that may come in the future. Sadly, in my opinion, that will never happen. Patriotism is dead. God help us all.
wrote on 07/13/2017 at 9:38 am:
As a gesture of "we boo booed" why don't the leaders of our county seat buy the property they are going to take sealed bids on; then give it to Jerry Jackson's friend who worked for the town for seventeen years and is a VIETNAM VETERAN. They could do it at a belated retirement party and demand that all department heads of the town give a congratulatory speech to Jerry's friend for his years of service to the town and to our nation for his service in Vietnam.
Just a suggestion, each speaker could begin by saying "thank you for your service and welcome home". "You can do it Elizabethtown"; make the man feel good about his service to your town and his country. "And that's all I got to say about that", as Forrest Gump would say; by the way, didn't Forrest serve in Vietnam? Run Forrest run!!!!!
Just a suggestion, each speaker could begin by saying "thank you for your service and welcome home". "You can do it Elizabethtown"; make the man feel good about his service to your town and his country. "And that's all I got to say about that", as Forrest Gump would say; by the way, didn't Forrest serve in Vietnam? Run Forrest run!!!!!
wrote on 07/12/2017 at 10:17 pm:
I was just reading where the town of Elizabethtown has some surplus property that they are going to be taking sealed bids for. Anyone want to bet on who is going to wind up with. I bet it will be one of the Etown managers friends
wrote on 07/11/2017 at 7:27 pm:
Greetings to all:
A friend of mine recently retired from the town of Elizabethtown after giving them seventeen years of his life. During his years with the town, he rarely got sick and was able to accumulate over a thousand hours of sick leave and many hours of vacation time. In addition to working for the town, he's an Army veteran who served his country in Vietnam.
This man did not deserve what his boss and the town leaders tried to do to him simply because as he neared his retirement date, he got sick and was required to be out of work for a short while.
Upon his return to work, he was called in to see the Personnel Officer, otherwise known as Human Relations, along with the town manager. They buttered him up and did their best to get this man to go back home, to use up his sick leave and vacation time and then retire. When my friend refused to play their game, the town manager pulled his pants up and left the room. My friend did things his way and when it was time for him to retire, there was no retirement party, there was no gathering of his friends, there was nothing. In addition to that, when he was eventually called in to have his retirement papers processed, they gave him a stack of papers and told him to fill them out and bring them back when he was done. What kind of "crap" is that? After consulting with the person retiring, the Personnel Officer always completes the necessary paperwork and then calls the employee in to get them signed.
The question you, as a citizen of Elizabethtown should be asking yourself is this-who the hell is running things in this town? How dare they treat one of their own employees like an animal. Trouble is, I'm also told they treat most of their employees like dogs. Maybe its time to "drain the swamp" in Elizabethtown. Does this get your attention? Are you, as a citizen of the town of Elizabethtown, proud of what your leaders are doing to their own people? From what I'm hearing, dogs are treated better than the employees of this town.
On the reverse side, understand this. If you're a good friend of town management, you can't do anything wrong. Want a job? Well, an unnamed source told me today that they will give their friends a job without them having to go through the regular hiring process. What that simply means is this, if you were seeking a job with the town, you could easily be the most qualified person for the job, but since you were not a good friend with the town leaders, you would be passed over. Simple as that. Think about it folks. This is serious.
A friend of mine recently retired from the town of Elizabethtown after giving them seventeen years of his life. During his years with the town, he rarely got sick and was able to accumulate over a thousand hours of sick leave and many hours of vacation time. In addition to working for the town, he's an Army veteran who served his country in Vietnam.
This man did not deserve what his boss and the town leaders tried to do to him simply because as he neared his retirement date, he got sick and was required to be out of work for a short while.
Upon his return to work, he was called in to see the Personnel Officer, otherwise known as Human Relations, along with the town manager. They buttered him up and did their best to get this man to go back home, to use up his sick leave and vacation time and then retire. When my friend refused to play their game, the town manager pulled his pants up and left the room. My friend did things his way and when it was time for him to retire, there was no retirement party, there was no gathering of his friends, there was nothing. In addition to that, when he was eventually called in to have his retirement papers processed, they gave him a stack of papers and told him to fill them out and bring them back when he was done. What kind of "crap" is that? After consulting with the person retiring, the Personnel Officer always completes the necessary paperwork and then calls the employee in to get them signed.
The question you, as a citizen of Elizabethtown should be asking yourself is this-who the hell is running things in this town? How dare they treat one of their own employees like an animal. Trouble is, I'm also told they treat most of their employees like dogs. Maybe its time to "drain the swamp" in Elizabethtown. Does this get your attention? Are you, as a citizen of the town of Elizabethtown, proud of what your leaders are doing to their own people? From what I'm hearing, dogs are treated better than the employees of this town.
On the reverse side, understand this. If you're a good friend of town management, you can't do anything wrong. Want a job? Well, an unnamed source told me today that they will give their friends a job without them having to go through the regular hiring process. What that simply means is this, if you were seeking a job with the town, you could easily be the most qualified person for the job, but since you were not a good friend with the town leaders, you would be passed over. Simple as that. Think about it folks. This is serious.
wrote on 07/11/2017 at 5:45 pm:
Thanks for the news about gas prices; was just over in Elizabethtown and the outlet across from the courthouse is currently $190 per gallon. Isn't it amazing how one man lowering the price of fuel has contributed to the lowering of prices else where.
Read two obituaries on BOL recently and two names showed up on the ancestor listings. John Buren Allen and his wife Sallie Lewis Allen; then Hubert Stone and his wife Jean Walters Stone. Could be wrong but I believe these two men were former sheriff's of Bladen and Robeson counties. Fond memories of both of these two law enforcement officers. God bless the families involved.
Read two obituaries on BOL recently and two names showed up on the ancestor listings. John Buren Allen and his wife Sallie Lewis Allen; then Hubert Stone and his wife Jean Walters Stone. Could be wrong but I believe these two men were former sheriff's of Bladen and Robeson counties. Fond memories of both of these two law enforcement officers. God bless the families involved.
wrote on 07/11/2017 at 5:14 pm:
Community Mart's gas is $1.91 a gallon
Used to buy it in Dublin but it's $2.10 there. keep up the good work!
Used to buy it in Dublin but it's $2.10 there. keep up the good work!
wrote on 07/11/2017 at 3:26 pm:
The wheels of help turn ever so slowly. Case in point; Elizabethtown is trying to get the runway extended at their airport. They have got confirmation that help is on the way; maybe by the year of 2024. They got the terminal moved real quickly, looks like the runway improvement is going to take quite a bit longer.
It begins again, the request for alcoholic beverages to be allowed in another municipality. This time in Dublin. Wonder if someone had went before the town board to gain permission to go down in the swamp and gather up some rattlesnakes to release the week of the peanut festival, if they would have sent that request on to the board of elections to have it put on the ballot in November. And this in a town that has no police force. Believe the mayor has already went on record that it will bring in very little revenue to the town. I would say the town better get some revenue from somewhere to take care of the problems that alcoholic beverage sales in the town will create. Ah, but there is always the property owners to call on for some additional dollars, not to mention the business owners also; one would have to think there will be a need for some additional dollars, if it is voted in.
It begins again, the request for alcoholic beverages to be allowed in another municipality. This time in Dublin. Wonder if someone had went before the town board to gain permission to go down in the swamp and gather up some rattlesnakes to release the week of the peanut festival, if they would have sent that request on to the board of elections to have it put on the ballot in November. And this in a town that has no police force. Believe the mayor has already went on record that it will bring in very little revenue to the town. I would say the town better get some revenue from somewhere to take care of the problems that alcoholic beverage sales in the town will create. Ah, but there is always the property owners to call on for some additional dollars, not to mention the business owners also; one would have to think there will be a need for some additional dollars, if it is voted in.
wrote on 07/09/2017 at 7:05 pm:
Mr. Edge:
Thanks for your response. I'll call you tomorrow and leave you my number. If anyone from the Dove, Freeman or the Davis families have anything on the Jackson family, please respond.
Thanks
Thanks for your response. I'll call you tomorrow and leave you my number. If anyone from the Dove, Freeman or the Davis families have anything on the Jackson family, please respond.
Thanks
wrote on 07/09/2017 at 4:00 pm:
Jerry Jackson, I have a few bits of information on your recent request concerning George Washington Jackson. It would probably be simpler for you to call me at 866-4168. I am in and out of the office this time of year, so leave a message if you don't reach me and I will call you back at the phone number that you leave me.
wrote on 07/08/2017 at 9:58 pm:
Request for help:
To the best of my knowledge, my great-great grandfather, George Washington Jackson was born and raised here in North Carolina. On one of the census reports, he is listed as being born in Jan 1829. I can verify his whereabouts from 1860 - 1907. What I don't know is where he was born and where he is buried. In 1860, he shows up the U S Census for the first time in White Oak and appears on every one after that up to 1900. His life ends in 1907 and that can be verified with other documentation. His first marriage was to a lady by the name of Anna Sophia Davis of White Oak and later to a widow by the name of Mary Elizabeth Freeman.
One of their sons married a local woman by the name of Arrie Jane Dove and one of their daughters was married to Clement Gillespie Ray. From all indications, he acquired about 300 - 500 acres of land in the White Oak area, served at Ft Fisher during the latter days of the civil war, was captured and taken to Pt. Lookout, Maryland along with many other men from Bladen County.
If you have any information whatsoever about George Washington Jackson or any of the people I mentioned, please write a comment about it.
Thanks
To the best of my knowledge, my great-great grandfather, George Washington Jackson was born and raised here in North Carolina. On one of the census reports, he is listed as being born in Jan 1829. I can verify his whereabouts from 1860 - 1907. What I don't know is where he was born and where he is buried. In 1860, he shows up the U S Census for the first time in White Oak and appears on every one after that up to 1900. His life ends in 1907 and that can be verified with other documentation. His first marriage was to a lady by the name of Anna Sophia Davis of White Oak and later to a widow by the name of Mary Elizabeth Freeman.
One of their sons married a local woman by the name of Arrie Jane Dove and one of their daughters was married to Clement Gillespie Ray. From all indications, he acquired about 300 - 500 acres of land in the White Oak area, served at Ft Fisher during the latter days of the civil war, was captured and taken to Pt. Lookout, Maryland along with many other men from Bladen County.
If you have any information whatsoever about George Washington Jackson or any of the people I mentioned, please write a comment about it.
Thanks
wrote on 07/07/2017 at 10:38 pm:
Definition or understanding of marriage.
Last generation-get the marriage ceremony performed and THEN the man and woman live together.
Current generation-live together for whatever period of time and then maybe get married.
Vast difference, isn't there?
Our representative in Washington DC as a very good report of legislation he has been involved in during the first six months of this session of congress. Great job Mr. Congressman. And all the while the liberals have been trying to convince us that nothing is being accomplished in DC.
Last generation-get the marriage ceremony performed and THEN the man and woman live together.
Current generation-live together for whatever period of time and then maybe get married.
Vast difference, isn't there?
Our representative in Washington DC as a very good report of legislation he has been involved in during the first six months of this session of congress. Great job Mr. Congressman. And all the while the liberals have been trying to convince us that nothing is being accomplished in DC.
wrote on 07/06/2017 at 2:54 pm:
A week of change. Our nation celebrated another birthday.
The Primitives, a bluegrass gospel group, from Candler NC held it's last Hominy Valley 4th of July singing. Been holding it for 37 years and it has been a great gathering for folks who love to sit out in the open clean air of the mountains of NC and enjoy the presence of God. They will be back for two weekend singings the first and second weekends of October.
A summer camp was held at Oak Grove Original Free Will Baptists for the first time and it was a great success. All praise to God for such a great turnout and for the church folks who showed up to help with the children. A lot of good seed were sown.
Thank God for all the good things that started and for the good things that ended.
The Primitives, a bluegrass gospel group, from Candler NC held it's last Hominy Valley 4th of July singing. Been holding it for 37 years and it has been a great gathering for folks who love to sit out in the open clean air of the mountains of NC and enjoy the presence of God. They will be back for two weekend singings the first and second weekends of October.
A summer camp was held at Oak Grove Original Free Will Baptists for the first time and it was a great success. All praise to God for such a great turnout and for the church folks who showed up to help with the children. A lot of good seed were sown.
Thank God for all the good things that started and for the good things that ended.
wrote on 07/05/2017 at 4:16 pm:
The July regular meeting of Boost the Boro, Inc. will be held on Tuesday July 11th, 2017 (7:00 pm) at the Bladenboro Farmer's Market Conference Room. If you have interest in our town and the surrounding communities and would like to become involved in one of the fastest growing organizations in our area, please join us as a visitor and I will discuss membership requirements and what we do with you personally. You do not have to be a resident of the Town of Bladenboro. We direct our efforts at the entire community. Thanks
wrote on 07/03/2017 at 9:14 pm:
Good evening:
On the eve of our independence, I found the following information that should be of interest to most Americans. I say most because we do have some people in this country who could care less about what happens to it.
At the age of 75, former president James Madison had to decline an invitation to attend a 4th of July celebration being organized by then mayor of Washington, Roger Chew Weightman. In his letter to the mayor, Madison wrote this line,
"Ever honored will be the day which gave birth to a nation, and to a System of self-government, making it a new Epoch in the History of Man."
The 3rd president of the United States and author of the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson, age 83, also had to decline the mayor's invitation for many reasons, his health being the primary reason.
But nothing, his health included, would stop him from sending his response to the mayor. In that letter, which turned out to be the last letter he would ever write, you will find the following: "all eyes are opened, or opening to the rights of man. The general spread of the light of science has already laid open to every view the palpable truth that the mass of mankind has been born, with saddles on their backs, nor a favored few booted and spurred, ready to ride them legitimately by the annual return of this day, for ever refresh our recollection of these rights and an undiminished devotion to them."
After writing this letter, Thomas Jefferson died the next day which was the 4th of July. Ironic, isn't it?
Tomorrow, as each one of us finds a way to celebrate Independence Day, take a few minutes to remember the many sacrifices made by our founding fathers and every man and woman who made the choice to serve this nation thus earning the rights guaranteed each of us by our Constitution.
Happy Fourth of July to one and all.
On the eve of our independence, I found the following information that should be of interest to most Americans. I say most because we do have some people in this country who could care less about what happens to it.
At the age of 75, former president James Madison had to decline an invitation to attend a 4th of July celebration being organized by then mayor of Washington, Roger Chew Weightman. In his letter to the mayor, Madison wrote this line,
"Ever honored will be the day which gave birth to a nation, and to a System of self-government, making it a new Epoch in the History of Man."
The 3rd president of the United States and author of the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson, age 83, also had to decline the mayor's invitation for many reasons, his health being the primary reason.
But nothing, his health included, would stop him from sending his response to the mayor. In that letter, which turned out to be the last letter he would ever write, you will find the following: "all eyes are opened, or opening to the rights of man. The general spread of the light of science has already laid open to every view the palpable truth that the mass of mankind has been born, with saddles on their backs, nor a favored few booted and spurred, ready to ride them legitimately by the annual return of this day, for ever refresh our recollection of these rights and an undiminished devotion to them."
After writing this letter, Thomas Jefferson died the next day which was the 4th of July. Ironic, isn't it?
Tomorrow, as each one of us finds a way to celebrate Independence Day, take a few minutes to remember the many sacrifices made by our founding fathers and every man and woman who made the choice to serve this nation thus earning the rights guaranteed each of us by our Constitution.
Happy Fourth of July to one and all.
wrote on 07/01/2017 at 10:53 am:
@ Jerry Jackson-great post. What is being said by the current generation is "if we hate the message then we hate the ones who send out the message". Jesus Christ shot holes in this philosophy because His Word makes it very clear that he HATED SIN but He LOVED the sinner. "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." There is coming a day, and most people who look at Bible prophecy believe it can't be far off, when people of deviant lifestyles as well as well as other sins will pay the penalty. Seems He said, "depart from me ye workers of inequity". God have mercy on this untoward generation.
wrote on 06/30/2017 at 11:02 pm:
Hello:
The first news alert I read off of my phone this morning concerned the vote in Germany that would legalize same sex marriage in that country. Has the entire world gone completely mad?
Ephesians 4:15 states that we are to speak the truth in love. The Bible also says that we are to love our neighbor as we do ourselves. So far, no problem. Now to the meat. The Bible does not teach us to love sin and the sex act taking place between two men and/or two women is indeed a sin. Read your Bible and remember this very important thing, you can't believe part of it and ignore other parts. It doesn't work that way people. In addition, we are not to hate or say nasty things about this small group of people but more importantly, we are not supposed to condone the sin of homosexuality or lesbianism for that matter. No way shape or form.
The arguments that some people use who accept or try to justify this deviant human behavior falls on the deaf ears of true Christians. Based on our Christian beliefs, the word of God and the teachings of Jesus, males or females, no matter what their ages are, who engage in sexual acts with members of the same sex have engaged in a grievous sin. Unless or until they give up that immoral behavior and seek the forgiveness of God, then, based on my understanding of God's word, they will be put to death. Don't believe it, take a look at Leviticus 20:13, Romans 1:27 or Leviticus 18:22.
So what does it say about the actual marriage of two men or two women? Absolutely nothing. However, it does say a ton about the marriage of one man and one woman. It also says a lot about sexual promiscuity by the heterosexual and also the homosexual. In Matthew 19:4, Jesus says that those yoked together in marriage should be "male and female." The verses of the Bible that I've read, always talks about marriage as that being between a man and a woman.
Those people who are in favor of allowing this group of people to engage in marriage and to adopt innocent little children are ignoring the truth of God's word and are perpetuating a lie. Yes, we, as true Christians, must continue to love and pray for these people but in addition, we should never ever condone or accept their immoral and perverted behavior.
The first news alert I read off of my phone this morning concerned the vote in Germany that would legalize same sex marriage in that country. Has the entire world gone completely mad?
Ephesians 4:15 states that we are to speak the truth in love. The Bible also says that we are to love our neighbor as we do ourselves. So far, no problem. Now to the meat. The Bible does not teach us to love sin and the sex act taking place between two men and/or two women is indeed a sin. Read your Bible and remember this very important thing, you can't believe part of it and ignore other parts. It doesn't work that way people. In addition, we are not to hate or say nasty things about this small group of people but more importantly, we are not supposed to condone the sin of homosexuality or lesbianism for that matter. No way shape or form.
The arguments that some people use who accept or try to justify this deviant human behavior falls on the deaf ears of true Christians. Based on our Christian beliefs, the word of God and the teachings of Jesus, males or females, no matter what their ages are, who engage in sexual acts with members of the same sex have engaged in a grievous sin. Unless or until they give up that immoral behavior and seek the forgiveness of God, then, based on my understanding of God's word, they will be put to death. Don't believe it, take a look at Leviticus 20:13, Romans 1:27 or Leviticus 18:22.
So what does it say about the actual marriage of two men or two women? Absolutely nothing. However, it does say a ton about the marriage of one man and one woman. It also says a lot about sexual promiscuity by the heterosexual and also the homosexual. In Matthew 19:4, Jesus says that those yoked together in marriage should be "male and female." The verses of the Bible that I've read, always talks about marriage as that being between a man and a woman.
Those people who are in favor of allowing this group of people to engage in marriage and to adopt innocent little children are ignoring the truth of God's word and are perpetuating a lie. Yes, we, as true Christians, must continue to love and pray for these people but in addition, we should never ever condone or accept their immoral and perverted behavior.
wrote on 06/29/2017 at 9:48 am:
Mr. Anderson,
Thanks for asking about Committee of 100. The meeting will be July 19th at Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery. Meeting starts at 6:30. Members will be getting invitations soon. We will also be doing a press release on it soon. The speaker is a national economic development consultant from a very prominent firm. We are excited about the event. Thanks again.
Chuck
Thanks for asking about Committee of 100. The meeting will be July 19th at Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery. Meeting starts at 6:30. Members will be getting invitations soon. We will also be doing a press release on it soon. The speaker is a national economic development consultant from a very prominent firm. We are excited about the event. Thanks again.
Chuck
wrote on 06/28/2017 at 6:07 pm:
That is a very good point, Mr. Anderson. I was talking to one of our County Commissioners last night and he said that nearly all the commissioners have agreed on that very thing. He said that he feels this group of commissioners are far more willing to compromise and work together than any group he has worked with during his years on the board, as well as being more committed to their common goals for the county.
There is also a very fine essay by Mr. D.G. Martin in the Bladen Journal about dealing with the political divide our country is experiencing.
On another subject, my husband and I have been spending time volunteering at Safeway Paths Summer Camp over the past two weeks, and it is a wonderful program for kids 5 through 12. It is an educational camp under the leadership of Darlene Bryant and a small but dedicated group that do it each year. This year's theme is STEM, and the kids have worked with computers and robotics, as well as designing and building model bridges. They have planted a raised bed garden, flown drones, made simple chemical compounds, and collected samples and studied them under a microscope.
For anyone who is looking for a way to make a positive impact on the kids in Bladen County, programs like these can always use volunteers and/or donations of materials.
There is also a very fine essay by Mr. D.G. Martin in the Bladen Journal about dealing with the political divide our country is experiencing.
On another subject, my husband and I have been spending time volunteering at Safeway Paths Summer Camp over the past two weeks, and it is a wonderful program for kids 5 through 12. It is an educational camp under the leadership of Darlene Bryant and a small but dedicated group that do it each year. This year's theme is STEM, and the kids have worked with computers and robotics, as well as designing and building model bridges. They have planted a raised bed garden, flown drones, made simple chemical compounds, and collected samples and studied them under a microscope.
For anyone who is looking for a way to make a positive impact on the kids in Bladen County, programs like these can always use volunteers and/or donations of materials.
wrote on 06/28/2017 at 3:45 pm:
All, if we put as much time and energy helping figure out the problems of the local, county issues. as went into all this back and forth what a place this would be!! This is my two cents worth.
Question #1 when is Bladen's committee of 100 meeting?
Y'all have a great day and god bless!
Question #1 when is Bladen's committee of 100 meeting?
Y'all have a great day and god bless!
wrote on 06/27/2017 at 10:28 pm:
GC,
If you have a submissive wife and she is happy with that, then it is a very good thing for both of you
I hope that we have reached an understanding and that there will be no need for any further comment from either of us.
I am certainly willing to end this unpleasantness with the agreement that we will avoid any interaction of any kind from now on.
If you have a submissive wife and she is happy with that, then it is a very good thing for both of you
I hope that we have reached an understanding and that there will be no need for any further comment from either of us.
I am certainly willing to end this unpleasantness with the agreement that we will avoid any interaction of any kind from now on.
wrote on 06/27/2017 at 10:06 pm:
And if you continue to include my name in your postings then you will continue to hear from me.
wrote on 06/27/2017 at 9:53 pm:
Ms. Sheppard:
Based on your comments, you obviously have me confused with someone else. Simply leave me out of your petty threats and insults and I will have no reason to communicate with you. Believe me when I say that I'm looking forward to the day you choose to do that and the sooner the better. On the other hand, if you continue to include my name in your postings then you will continue to hear from me.
Based on your comments, you obviously have me confused with someone else. Simply leave me out of your petty threats and insults and I will have no reason to communicate with you. Believe me when I say that I'm looking forward to the day you choose to do that and the sooner the better. On the other hand, if you continue to include my name in your postings then you will continue to hear from me.
wrote on 06/27/2017 at 9:37 pm:
Mr. Jackson, you had me concerned there for a while. If it wasn't my birth day I might feel an "urge" to comment further. Think I will though!!
Suffice it to just say that Jesus Christ has been my personal Savior since March of 1962. I have worked with, been to school with, served in the United States Army with, and been friends with people of all races. Never once have I thought I was better or worse than any of them. Wonder if that clears on the racist matter? Now anyone can call me a racist if they so choose, the problem is that they can never prove it.
I do believe that a wife should be submissive to her husband. And I do believe that women have their place, men have their place, children have their place; and if each does not know their place, then there is no peace in the home, the community, the county, the state, the nation, nor the world. Hallelujah, and would someone please pass the biscuits. Momma's would be great but thank God He provided me with a wife that makes them oh so delicious, as anyone who has ever set their feet under our table will attest. Threats bother me on my birthday or any other day? I don't think so. And God bless our President Donald J Trump. By the way have you heard how many people will be without health insurance if Obamacare stays in effect? All of us. The Chinese, who basically already own our nation, will make sure of that. Personally, I think the rapture will take place before that happens and praise God we will all be changed.
Anyone else out there having a birthday, have a happy. Getting the "urge" for some birthday cake smothered in fresh strawberries.
Suffice it to just say that Jesus Christ has been my personal Savior since March of 1962. I have worked with, been to school with, served in the United States Army with, and been friends with people of all races. Never once have I thought I was better or worse than any of them. Wonder if that clears on the racist matter? Now anyone can call me a racist if they so choose, the problem is that they can never prove it.
I do believe that a wife should be submissive to her husband. And I do believe that women have their place, men have their place, children have their place; and if each does not know their place, then there is no peace in the home, the community, the county, the state, the nation, nor the world. Hallelujah, and would someone please pass the biscuits. Momma's would be great but thank God He provided me with a wife that makes them oh so delicious, as anyone who has ever set their feet under our table will attest. Threats bother me on my birthday or any other day? I don't think so. And God bless our President Donald J Trump. By the way have you heard how many people will be without health insurance if Obamacare stays in effect? All of us. The Chinese, who basically already own our nation, will make sure of that. Personally, I think the rapture will take place before that happens and praise God we will all be changed.
Anyone else out there having a birthday, have a happy. Getting the "urge" for some birthday cake smothered in fresh strawberries.
wrote on 06/27/2017 at 9:29 pm:
Mr. Jackson,
There is no debate. I was threatened on another site by a BOL regular poster. I came here and made the comment that no right wing racist was going scare me.
If you are not a right wing racist then I was not talking to you or about you. Obviously you feel my comment applies to you.
You are so confusing. On one post you beg me to please, please, keep it coming. Next post you want me to stop. You must be getting some mixed up 'urges'.
Yes, I came here to talk about what is happening to me. I have no reason to hide it. The posts are on public sites and are not hidden.
I was in Elizabethtown tonight, and I think everybody in Bladen County is watching you continue to try to bully and intimidate me. In fact, the more you try the more determined I am that you will not.
You keep having an impulse to comment to me that you cannot seem to control. You can shut up any time, and I will do the same. But you go first.
Earlier you wrote to me that you would put it in a way that "even you can understand". So I will do the same for you.
YOU chose to involve yourself in this and YOU can end your involment at any time. The choice is yours.
There is no debate. I was threatened on another site by a BOL regular poster. I came here and made the comment that no right wing racist was going scare me.
If you are not a right wing racist then I was not talking to you or about you. Obviously you feel my comment applies to you.
You are so confusing. On one post you beg me to please, please, keep it coming. Next post you want me to stop. You must be getting some mixed up 'urges'.
Yes, I came here to talk about what is happening to me. I have no reason to hide it. The posts are on public sites and are not hidden.
I was in Elizabethtown tonight, and I think everybody in Bladen County is watching you continue to try to bully and intimidate me. In fact, the more you try the more determined I am that you will not.
You keep having an impulse to comment to me that you cannot seem to control. You can shut up any time, and I will do the same. But you go first.
Earlier you wrote to me that you would put it in a way that "even you can understand". So I will do the same for you.
YOU chose to involve yourself in this and YOU can end your involment at any time. The choice is yours.
wrote on 06/27/2017 at 8:24 pm:
Good afternoon:
To Mr. Fussell:
Mr. Fussell, it's always good to hear from someone coming off the sidelines and thank you for your comment. I encourage you to post more of your thoughts as they relate to current events or whatever happens to be on your mind at the time. If more people were to join in, the subject matter would tend to expand and that would be good for everybody.
I read the comment you posted earlier today and believe me I gave it some serious thought as the day progressed.
It may surprise you but you are absolutely correct, almost. Yes sir, I could totally ignore every thing that lady comments on but that defeats the purpose of a debate. In addition, she's the one who insulted a small group of people, including yours truly, so from my point of view, she's the one who has to stop with all the vile rhetoric and if she does, I'd like to think that others will respond accordingly. If she left me out of her attacks then I would have no reason to respond to her comments unless of coarse I felt the urge to respond positively or negatively to whatever her subject matter was.
Anyway, thanks for your comment and feel free to continue as you see fit.
To Mr. Fussell:
Mr. Fussell, it's always good to hear from someone coming off the sidelines and thank you for your comment. I encourage you to post more of your thoughts as they relate to current events or whatever happens to be on your mind at the time. If more people were to join in, the subject matter would tend to expand and that would be good for everybody.
I read the comment you posted earlier today and believe me I gave it some serious thought as the day progressed.
It may surprise you but you are absolutely correct, almost. Yes sir, I could totally ignore every thing that lady comments on but that defeats the purpose of a debate. In addition, she's the one who insulted a small group of people, including yours truly, so from my point of view, she's the one who has to stop with all the vile rhetoric and if she does, I'd like to think that others will respond accordingly. If she left me out of her attacks then I would have no reason to respond to her comments unless of coarse I felt the urge to respond positively or negatively to whatever her subject matter was.
Anyway, thanks for your comment and feel free to continue as you see fit.
wrote on 06/27/2017 at 12:17 pm:
Mr. Jackson:
All this could just as easily stop with you. Think about it.
All this could just as easily stop with you. Think about it.
wrote on 06/27/2017 at 9:37 am:
Ms. Sheppard:
What's it going to take to convince you that from my viewpoint, you're the problem. Even when you try to be nice in your comments, you always find a way to tick people off. If you're that nice lady that people like Mr. Druzak speaks of, it sure doesn't transfer over to your writings. You and people like you come to a point when you have to strike back. Some of the liberals burn, loot and do bodily harm to others whereas you resort to insults and threats. Be nice or grow some thicker skin.
When postings appear on guestbook, people read them. Think back lady, it was YOU who called me and others a racist, which is a big fat lie by the way. It was that comment made by YOU that drew me into this conversation. Harsh words didn't work for you so you resorted to threats. Time will tell if that tactic works for you.
What you and your husband do about your email problem is a personal matter that is to be decided by the two of you. That's none of our concern unless you make it public, which is exactly what you've done.
Did you really have to insult the wives of men that you dislike by calling them "unfortunate?" Where does it stop with you?
One last thing. When anyone, including you, puts a posting on guestbook, I will read it. Some, I pass right over, while others like yours beg for a kind in kind response. If you truly wanted people to be nice to you then it has to start with YOU. Look in the mirror and you'll see the problem with all of this and it will go on and on or it'll stop with you. Think about it.
What's it going to take to convince you that from my viewpoint, you're the problem. Even when you try to be nice in your comments, you always find a way to tick people off. If you're that nice lady that people like Mr. Druzak speaks of, it sure doesn't transfer over to your writings. You and people like you come to a point when you have to strike back. Some of the liberals burn, loot and do bodily harm to others whereas you resort to insults and threats. Be nice or grow some thicker skin.
When postings appear on guestbook, people read them. Think back lady, it was YOU who called me and others a racist, which is a big fat lie by the way. It was that comment made by YOU that drew me into this conversation. Harsh words didn't work for you so you resorted to threats. Time will tell if that tactic works for you.
What you and your husband do about your email problem is a personal matter that is to be decided by the two of you. That's none of our concern unless you make it public, which is exactly what you've done.
Did you really have to insult the wives of men that you dislike by calling them "unfortunate?" Where does it stop with you?
One last thing. When anyone, including you, puts a posting on guestbook, I will read it. Some, I pass right over, while others like yours beg for a kind in kind response. If you truly wanted people to be nice to you then it has to start with YOU. Look in the mirror and you'll see the problem with all of this and it will go on and on or it'll stop with you. Think about it.
wrote on 06/27/2017 at 9:11 am:
Derek, it doesn't seem like that was so long ago! You were then and still are one of my most favorite people.
wrote on 06/27/2017 at 8:48 am:
I mentioned earlier that anyone is free to skip over anything I write, and that certainly includes you. In fact, I would suggest and prefer that you do.
My husband and I share an email address. I don't use a desktop or laptop computer, only a tablet.
When you register to post on the Bladen Journal site, you give your email address. Any time another poster writes a response directly to you, it is sent to you as an email. So responses to any post I made there, which was rare, were sent to him.
Before I even knew what GC was doing, all of the insulting comments he made to me were pouring into my husband's email account on his work computer, nearly a dozen at one time.
As is clear from this site, there are some 'men' who enjoy hiding behind keyboards and slinging disrespectful slurs towards women, and there are apparently women unfortunate enough to be married to 'men' like that.
My husband is not one of those men, and I am not one of those women.
Again, before I knew what was even going on, my husband had found out who GC Bryan is and how to contact him.
I sincerely want this irritating stupidity to come to an end without any further interaction. But that is not up to me at this point.
My husband and I share an email address. I don't use a desktop or laptop computer, only a tablet.
When you register to post on the Bladen Journal site, you give your email address. Any time another poster writes a response directly to you, it is sent to you as an email. So responses to any post I made there, which was rare, were sent to him.
Before I even knew what GC was doing, all of the insulting comments he made to me were pouring into my husband's email account on his work computer, nearly a dozen at one time.
As is clear from this site, there are some 'men' who enjoy hiding behind keyboards and slinging disrespectful slurs towards women, and there are apparently women unfortunate enough to be married to 'men' like that.
My husband is not one of those men, and I am not one of those women.
Again, before I knew what was even going on, my husband had found out who GC Bryan is and how to contact him.
I sincerely want this irritating stupidity to come to an end without any further interaction. But that is not up to me at this point.
wrote on 06/27/2017 at 8:46 am:
I have to chime in here for a second. A while back, my father, who is about as right wing conservative as they come, was chastised on this site by some liberal folks for supporting Trump, and guess who came to his defense, our family friend Mrs Patsy Sheppard. Now my father's and her political views can not be further apart, and even though I may not agree with everything she says, it does not change the fact that she is a kind, loving person who would do anything for anybody. I know her and her family very well and they are great people. She is also an excellent math teacher because had it not been for her free tutoring to me in 10th grade many moons ago, I would have never passed Geometry.I never forgot that Patsy....LOL...Just my two cents...
wrote on 06/26/2017 at 8:04 pm:
Good evening:
To Mr. Bryan-
Thanks for your very amusing comments about my use of the word "urge" in a recent posting to everybody's friend-Ms. Sheppard. Do you see how our liberal friends and neighbors can take something very innocent and make it into something ugly? They have really perfected the art of misdirecting, haven't they. But I digress.
True to form-you took it a step further and I loved it. Look at this again. You said, "Gotta go, I'm getting an urge." Man, that was some great ad libbing and I laughed my head off. Keep it up and keep your sense of humor. By the by-I truly miss mama's home made biscuits.
To Mr. Bryan-
Thanks for your very amusing comments about my use of the word "urge" in a recent posting to everybody's friend-Ms. Sheppard. Do you see how our liberal friends and neighbors can take something very innocent and make it into something ugly? They have really perfected the art of misdirecting, haven't they. But I digress.
True to form-you took it a step further and I loved it. Look at this again. You said, "Gotta go, I'm getting an urge." Man, that was some great ad libbing and I laughed my head off. Keep it up and keep your sense of humor. By the by-I truly miss mama's home made biscuits.
wrote on 06/26/2017 at 7:23 pm:
I believe you mean 'site', not 'sight'. After all the times you have ridiculed me for every typo I made, I am sure you want to be corrected as well.
As to your insinuation about an apology, Mr. Anderson had the good manners to offer one when it was not needed, and I offered one when it was.
But I certainly would never expect that of you. In fact, I would be shocked.
Just to ease your worried mind, my legal name is Patricia Patterson Sheppard. My Dad gave me the nickname Patsy when I was a child. People that know me well call me by my nickname. When a writer submits letters to publications they sometimes require you to use your legal name.
I don't know why you feel some obsessive need to treat me as you do. I suspect it is because you think women should be submissive and I am obviously not. Nor will I ever be.
For nine months I never even visited this guestbook, but over the past few days I read back and saw that during that nine month period you frequently made hateful, sarcastic comments about me. In between your bragging about being a Christian, of coarse.
During a recent 42 hour period you went back months on the Bladen Journal site to find comments I had made to post similar remarks there and to post similar comments to nearly every one you could find.
You have some kind of sick problem with me, and I am telling you, not asking you, to find a cure for it.
I don't expect nor do I want an apology from you. I want you to stop what you are doing. No more remarks, no more taunts, no more threats of your "old gang" coming after me.
You post wherever you want. You just leave me out of it completely. You can end this right here and now easily and quietly, or I promise you that I will do whatever it takes to end it for you.
Which probably means I will not try to stop my husband from what he wants to do about the way you act towards me.
As to your insinuation about an apology, Mr. Anderson had the good manners to offer one when it was not needed, and I offered one when it was.
But I certainly would never expect that of you. In fact, I would be shocked.
Just to ease your worried mind, my legal name is Patricia Patterson Sheppard. My Dad gave me the nickname Patsy when I was a child. People that know me well call me by my nickname. When a writer submits letters to publications they sometimes require you to use your legal name.
I don't know why you feel some obsessive need to treat me as you do. I suspect it is because you think women should be submissive and I am obviously not. Nor will I ever be.
For nine months I never even visited this guestbook, but over the past few days I read back and saw that during that nine month period you frequently made hateful, sarcastic comments about me. In between your bragging about being a Christian, of coarse.
During a recent 42 hour period you went back months on the Bladen Journal site to find comments I had made to post similar remarks there and to post similar comments to nearly every one you could find.
You have some kind of sick problem with me, and I am telling you, not asking you, to find a cure for it.
I don't expect nor do I want an apology from you. I want you to stop what you are doing. No more remarks, no more taunts, no more threats of your "old gang" coming after me.
You post wherever you want. You just leave me out of it completely. You can end this right here and now easily and quietly, or I promise you that I will do whatever it takes to end it for you.
Which probably means I will not try to stop my husband from what he wants to do about the way you act towards me.
wrote on 06/26/2017 at 6:31 pm:
News flash. No one person or group of people own the right to post on this sight or any other site. It is a privilege granted to anyone who wants to post by the people who own the site that grants the privilege. In this case it is Charlotte Smith and Mr. Robert, if he still owns an interest in the sight. As has been stated so many times by posters on this site; if anyone post on this sight anyone and everyone has the right to respond. As one checks around sights that grant folks the right to post; it is apparent that people post on various sights and they have the right to continue to do so. No poster has the right to tell people whether to apologize for any thing they post; that right remains with the person who feels they might need to apologize, but make no mistake, that right remains with that person not someone else. Welcome back to one and all to this sight and thanks to the owners of BOL for making it available. Just as I read the newspaper each, so do I read BOL each. Until the owners no longer make it available, I will continue to post on this sight and support their advertisers. Mr. Anderson, good to see your name back on the guestbook as well as all others.
wrote on 06/26/2017 at 5:48 pm:
Hello everyone-and to you as well Ms. Sheppard:
It's good to be back in town and oh how I missed the back and forth between you and everybody else. I'm not quiet ready to address your recent quibbles and other ramblings so I will first add my vote to all readers of this site who have visited the local business that had the gonads to bring the price of gas down. I visited their business as soon as I heard about the price they were getting for gasoline. I talked with the owners and was assured that they were making a profit even at the price of $1.99 per gallon. Do you people see what I've been harking about for months on end? Every where I go, I find gasoline way cheaper than right here in the middle of two gas barons. When there's no competition, they simply charged us what they wanted and fully expected the locals to pay the price or else. For whatever reason, the price for our gasoline dollars is being competed for by the various gas stations. Isn't it wonderful?
Now we can start talking about the high price of clothing and other things we locals spend our money on. Do you realize that you can buy name brand clothing at Sam's Club far cheaper than you pay locally? A name brand shirt for $18.00 - $20.00 instead of paying $50.00 - $70.00 you're expected to pay locally. A pair of Levi jeans for around $20.00 instead of the $50.00 to $60.00 they charge you at a local clothing store. Why in heavens name would you waste your money in that way? Oh well, if you have it to waste and that's your desire, then more power to you. Let's keep talking.
It's good to be back in town and oh how I missed the back and forth between you and everybody else. I'm not quiet ready to address your recent quibbles and other ramblings so I will first add my vote to all readers of this site who have visited the local business that had the gonads to bring the price of gas down. I visited their business as soon as I heard about the price they were getting for gasoline. I talked with the owners and was assured that they were making a profit even at the price of $1.99 per gallon. Do you people see what I've been harking about for months on end? Every where I go, I find gasoline way cheaper than right here in the middle of two gas barons. When there's no competition, they simply charged us what they wanted and fully expected the locals to pay the price or else. For whatever reason, the price for our gasoline dollars is being competed for by the various gas stations. Isn't it wonderful?
Now we can start talking about the high price of clothing and other things we locals spend our money on. Do you realize that you can buy name brand clothing at Sam's Club far cheaper than you pay locally? A name brand shirt for $18.00 - $20.00 instead of paying $50.00 - $70.00 you're expected to pay locally. A pair of Levi jeans for around $20.00 instead of the $50.00 to $60.00 they charge you at a local clothing store. Why in heavens name would you waste your money in that way? Oh well, if you have it to waste and that's your desire, then more power to you. Let's keep talking.
wrote on 06/26/2017 at 4:57 pm:
Mr. Anderson,
I appreciate your offer of an apology, but you have nothing to apologize about.
Mine to you was sincere, as this whole situation is unpleasant to me, and I am sure it is to anyone who is a visitor to this site.
But I have reached my limit with being ridiculed, insulted, and now stalked by this person, and I will not tolerate it any longer.
He has poked this hornet's nest for the last time, and that is to whom I was referring.
Certainly not to you, and I truly do appreciate your service to our country. Now, as much as any other time in history, we should appreciate the freedoms we are granted by our Constitution and those who guard them. Thank you.
I appreciate your offer of an apology, but you have nothing to apologize about.
Mine to you was sincere, as this whole situation is unpleasant to me, and I am sure it is to anyone who is a visitor to this site.
But I have reached my limit with being ridiculed, insulted, and now stalked by this person, and I will not tolerate it any longer.
He has poked this hornet's nest for the last time, and that is to whom I was referring.
Certainly not to you, and I truly do appreciate your service to our country. Now, as much as any other time in history, we should appreciate the freedoms we are granted by our Constitution and those who guard them. Thank you.
wrote on 06/26/2017 at 4:40 pm:
Ms.or Mrs. Sheppard,
I was just agreeing with a friend about the gas prices, as far as my comment to you, i didn't mean it in any way disrespectful as i said I would not be doing it. But if people posting want to feel free. I spent 20 years in the US Navy defending the right to do or say as you feel. You didn't bother me and I was not intending to harress anyone. if you felt I did I apologize.
I was just agreeing with a friend about the gas prices, as far as my comment to you, i didn't mean it in any way disrespectful as i said I would not be doing it. But if people posting want to feel free. I spent 20 years in the US Navy defending the right to do or say as you feel. You didn't bother me and I was not intending to harress anyone. if you felt I did I apologize.
wrote on 06/26/2017 at 2:48 pm:
Mr. Anderson,
I am sorry my presence on this site bothers you.
To be honest, I don't care much for it either. I prefer the Journal site.
But I am not going to cower from somebody who threatens to bring his "old gang" to chase me off there as he wants to think he did here.
Feel free to skip right over anything I post if it bothers you, because you can count on the fact that I will not be running and hiding and will be here until my anger over being harassed subsides. That might take quite some time.
You would think people would be smart enough not to go over to somebody else's yard and poke a hornet's nest. But some people just cannot leave things alone.
I am sorry my presence on this site bothers you.
To be honest, I don't care much for it either. I prefer the Journal site.
But I am not going to cower from somebody who threatens to bring his "old gang" to chase me off there as he wants to think he did here.
Feel free to skip right over anything I post if it bothers you, because you can count on the fact that I will not be running and hiding and will be here until my anger over being harassed subsides. That might take quite some time.
You would think people would be smart enough not to go over to somebody else's yard and poke a hornet's nest. But some people just cannot leave things alone.
wrote on 06/26/2017 at 2:07 pm:
Mr. GC (whom I have met in person), I agree i have got gas at the community mart, nice place great gas prices! I guess i'm part of the old gang now. lol
Don't worry Patricia Sheppard, i'm not into writing long philosophical dissertations about political or other topics. so you have a nice day!
Don't worry Patricia Sheppard, i'm not into writing long philosophical dissertations about political or other topics. so you have a nice day!
wrote on 06/26/2017 at 10:45 am:
@Tracy Smith, sign me up as another that appreciates the low gas prices at the Community Mart that has recently opened up on the east side of Elizabethtown. Hope they will be able to continue the low prices. My experience has been that the two low price things that will bring business into a convenience store are MILK & Gas. Thanks community Mart.
URGES seems to be the hot topic for those interested right now. Posters have urges, men, have urges, would think women have urges; heck, even animals have urges. The question is not do we have urges or not, but what will we allow those urges to lead. Even President DONALD J TRUMP gets an urge to Tweet every so often. Let us urge one another on to higher depths of thought, deeper depths of gratitude, and wider depths of thought. Gotta go, I'm getting an urge.
URGES seems to be the hot topic for those interested right now. Posters have urges, men, have urges, would think women have urges; heck, even animals have urges. The question is not do we have urges or not, but what will we allow those urges to lead. Even President DONALD J TRUMP gets an urge to Tweet every so often. Let us urge one another on to higher depths of thought, deeper depths of gratitude, and wider depths of thought. Gotta go, I'm getting an urge.
wrote on 06/26/2017 at 10:11 am:
Thanks to the folks at the Community Mart for single handedly bringing the price of gas down 20 cents per gallon. I encourage everyone to show their appreciation by giving all their business to the Community Mart and boycott the greedy folks that thought nothing of sticking it to the people of Bladen County.
wrote on 06/25/2017 at 9:26 pm:
I find most of the stuff you write quite amusing as well.
But not when you start talking about weird stuff like your excited urges.
I find that kind of stuff a little creepy.
But not when you start talking about weird stuff like your excited urges.
I find that kind of stuff a little creepy.
wrote on 06/25/2017 at 9:03 pm:
Ms. Sheppard:
That was a classic response to my last entry. I have to tell you, I had the best laugh of this day when I read what you had to say. Please, please, please keep it coming. You just crack me up.
That was a classic response to my last entry. I have to tell you, I had the best laugh of this day when I read what you had to say. Please, please, please keep it coming. You just crack me up.
wrote on 06/25/2017 at 5:54 pm:
"excite my urge to try and correct the misguided people that choose to correspond with the people of Blade. County and beyond"?
I am not sure what you are trying to say, but I think you are saying that I am misguided in some way.
I can assure that I am not, but if I were it would take someone much, much better than you to guide me anywhere.
I am not sure what you are trying to say, but I think you are saying that I am misguided in some way.
I can assure that I am not, but if I were it would take someone much, much better than you to guide me anywhere.
wrote on 06/25/2017 at 5:45 pm:
Good evening:
I've been reading the input since early this morning but I left town right after church and won't respond until I get back to town.
Ms. Sheppard. I must say that you never fail to excite my urge to try and correct the misguided people that choose to correspond with the people of Blade. County and beyond. I'll be back.
I've been reading the input since early this morning but I left town right after church and won't respond until I get back to town.
Ms. Sheppard. I must say that you never fail to excite my urge to try and correct the misguided people that choose to correspond with the people of Blade. County and beyond. I'll be back.
wrote on 06/25/2017 at 5:12 pm:
The mistake you continue to insist on making is to take the actions of a few people, assign to those actions the meanings, motives, and narratives you choose to repeat, and then ascribing them to 'liberals'.
It is blatant stereotyping, just as I am sure you see on FOX several hours a day.
I could name several prominent Republican politicians who have committed adulterous, been arrested for child molestation, or been convicted of financial crimes. Following your example I would conclude that all or most conservatives are either sexually deviants or frauds.
It is really simple. Some people of a race or a religion or a political affiliation do things that are wrong. Since you feel compelled to constantly assign blame for misdeeds, assign it to the individuals who commit the acts and stop accusing everyone they share a skin color, religion, or party affiliation with of the same wrongdoings.
And if you don't remember the violent protests and sexual revolution of the 60s and 70s then you must have either been in a nunnery or a coma.
It is blatant stereotyping, just as I am sure you see on FOX several hours a day.
I could name several prominent Republican politicians who have committed adulterous, been arrested for child molestation, or been convicted of financial crimes. Following your example I would conclude that all or most conservatives are either sexually deviants or frauds.
It is really simple. Some people of a race or a religion or a political affiliation do things that are wrong. Since you feel compelled to constantly assign blame for misdeeds, assign it to the individuals who commit the acts and stop accusing everyone they share a skin color, religion, or party affiliation with of the same wrongdoings.
And if you don't remember the violent protests and sexual revolution of the 60s and 70s then you must have either been in a nunnery or a coma.
wrote on 06/25/2017 at 4:38 pm:
I think what you might be attempting to say is that some liberal Democrats are more extreme today then they were forty years ago. Just as some conservative Republicans are.
For example, no decent Republican or Democrat would have voted for Donald Trump back then.
Of course in my opinion they would not now either.
For example, no decent Republican or Democrat would have voted for Donald Trump back then.
Of course in my opinion they would not now either.
wrote on 06/25/2017 at 2:53 pm:
What I meant by the definition of liberal changing over the years was nothing like what Mrs. Sheppard wrote about. Growing up in the 70's and 80's the liberals I knew were nothing like the liberals of today. They believed in excessive spending of government and social programs but that's the only difference I can recall. Of course it was a different world then. There is no way they would have supported some of the nonsense we see going on today. They would not have supported "protesters" who are nothing more than criminals blocking traffic, and burning and looting businesses. They would not have supported calling for murdering police officers. They would not have supported women dressing up as their private parts parading down the streets to ask for more respect for women. How can anyone respect that? They supported gay people, and so do I, but they would not have supported the parade where gay men wore nothing but gstrings and boots. Nobody wants to see that, especially children. Some things need to be left in private. Many (not all) of the liberals today seem to have lost respect for themselves and everyone else in a childish attempt to get noticed and get their way. Even though they had different views on social issues and spending, they did put America first. They did not support illegal immigration and agreed with finishing the border wall back in the 80's. They were kind and polite but didn't believe anything they didn't agree with was "hate speech". It was a different world and is some ways it was much better.
wrote on 06/25/2017 at 11:06 am:
"Charity should be a choice, not a mandate" is an interesting choice of words, but I see quite clearly how it aligns with a Conservative viewpoint.
As a Christian, I know that charity is a mandate from God.
But I certainly understand that you believe government should not be used as an implement to perform God's mandates.
Well, except for the religious mandates like marriage and abortion that YOU want governmental intervention in, of course.
As a Christian, I know that charity is a mandate from God.
But I certainly understand that you believe government should not be used as an implement to perform God's mandates.
Well, except for the religious mandates like marriage and abortion that YOU want governmental intervention in, of course.
wrote on 06/25/2017 at 10:45 am:
I saw the comment about how the meaning of the word 'liberal' has changed. Of course it really has not. Liberal, moderate, and conservative are all adjectives used to modify nouns. Liberal means generous and open; moderate means average and not excessive; and conservative means cautious and closed (all according to the New Oxford American Dictionary).
Across the political spectrum there are conservative Republicans, moderate Republicans, liberal Republicans, conservative Democrats, moderate Democrats, and liberal Democrats. There are also Libertarians and Independents, as well as a host of other political categories people have created, over 1000 in America alone.
Rigidly extreme black-and-white thinkers want to limit that to only two categories, conservative Republican and liberal Democrat. They put themselves in one and categorize everybody else as the other. 'All you people' then become the enemy to be reviled, despised, hated, and harassed. And since there are only one of two possibilities, they see no need to use the full description. Now you are either a Liberal or a Conservative. If you aren't with me then I am against you.
Many (if not all) of those people who call themselves Conservatives blame our former president for this political divide, but there is only one man who ever walked this earth that is powerful enough to create so much damage and he would never use his power for anything harmful. It takes a lot of people to create the evil occurring in our once great country.
Everyone has an opinion about where to place the blame, and I think there is plenty to go around on both sides. But I can summarize where I believe the heart of the problem lies by sharing a quote from Reverend Wayne Flynt, an ordained Baptist minister and one of Alabama’s pre-eminent historians. In a Washington Post interview during the election, Rev. Flynt said, "The idea that moral hypocrisy hurts you among evangelical Christian voters is not true, if you’re sound on all of the fundamentals. Being sound on the fundamentals depends on what the evangelical Christian community has decided the fundamentals have become. At this time, what is fundamental is hating liberals, hating Obama, hating abortion and hating same-sex marriage."
If evangelical Christians have decided that being a moral hypocrite is acceptable as long as you hate liberals, hate Obama, hate abortion, and hate same-sex marriage, there there is indeed a word that has changed in meaning, but it isn't the word 'liberal'.
Across the political spectrum there are conservative Republicans, moderate Republicans, liberal Republicans, conservative Democrats, moderate Democrats, and liberal Democrats. There are also Libertarians and Independents, as well as a host of other political categories people have created, over 1000 in America alone.
Rigidly extreme black-and-white thinkers want to limit that to only two categories, conservative Republican and liberal Democrat. They put themselves in one and categorize everybody else as the other. 'All you people' then become the enemy to be reviled, despised, hated, and harassed. And since there are only one of two possibilities, they see no need to use the full description. Now you are either a Liberal or a Conservative. If you aren't with me then I am against you.
Many (if not all) of those people who call themselves Conservatives blame our former president for this political divide, but there is only one man who ever walked this earth that is powerful enough to create so much damage and he would never use his power for anything harmful. It takes a lot of people to create the evil occurring in our once great country.
Everyone has an opinion about where to place the blame, and I think there is plenty to go around on both sides. But I can summarize where I believe the heart of the problem lies by sharing a quote from Reverend Wayne Flynt, an ordained Baptist minister and one of Alabama’s pre-eminent historians. In a Washington Post interview during the election, Rev. Flynt said, "The idea that moral hypocrisy hurts you among evangelical Christian voters is not true, if you’re sound on all of the fundamentals. Being sound on the fundamentals depends on what the evangelical Christian community has decided the fundamentals have become. At this time, what is fundamental is hating liberals, hating Obama, hating abortion and hating same-sex marriage."
If evangelical Christians have decided that being a moral hypocrite is acceptable as long as you hate liberals, hate Obama, hate abortion, and hate same-sex marriage, there there is indeed a word that has changed in meaning, but it isn't the word 'liberal'.
wrote on 06/25/2017 at 9:36 am:
Mrs. Sheppard, believe it or not, you and I actually agree on alot. My husband and I are going through a health and financial crisis ourselves as write this and this is not the first one, so I do understand. The only point that we differ on is that I believe charity should be a choice, not a mandate. We have helped others and other people have helped us. Charitable organizations help people every day. I agree with our taxes helping the truly disabled and temporarily helping people in a crisis situation such as a single mom with children to feed if the husband runs off. What I don't believe in is constant aid to everyone or anything that would lead us on the path to becoming a socialist country. For example, if unmarried women continue to have children over and over so they won't have to work, instead of getting more welfare, they should lose their children. Minimum wage workers qualify for grants so they should enroll in community college and earn valuable skills. I do agree with mandates that health insurance should be required to cover preexisting conditions but also believe that unless you're a child, simply being alive doesn't mean your entitled to health insurance. You should have to work for it. Health insurance through the workplace should be the encouraged because the large pool has always kept the prices lower than the private market and preexisting conditions have always been covered. The risk pool has been spread over hundreds or thousands of people. The private market has always been more expensive and that's always been a problem for small business owners. One solution is for one spouse to work in a larger business. I understand that small business provide many jobs throughout our country so I'm all for assisting them in ways such as combining their businesses into one large pool (even if it is government run). However, it should not be allowed to destroy the insurance for those of us who decided to work for the state, federal government, or large corporations based on the benefits. Small business owners have always had to obtain their insurance on the private market; This is nothing new. We agree on many things. I just believe that my needs shouldn't end because of someone else's choices. We all made our choices and should own them and be responsible for them. Everyone is free to help as many people as they want, but once you mandate it and start taking more money out of my meager check, it becomes a free for all. When everyone is getting something for free or everyone is getting the larger check, motivation suffers and nobody wants to work hard anymore. Nothing is really free. What one person is getting for free, someone else had to work for.
wrote on 06/24/2017 at 11:11 pm:
I was reading an article on a news site earlier this week about the possible effects of the new state budget and the new Republican health care plan. Of course, there is still much uncertainty, and the fear of the unknown has many people worried.
One of the commenters on the article was talking about her concern for her neighbors, a couple who owns a small business and has insurance through the ACA. The husband has cancer and is being treated with oral chemotherapy which costs $1300 per dose. She said the illness has devastated them financially and they are worried about losing their business and their insurance care. A few other posters offered sympathetic comments, suggestions, and similar stories.
A new poster went on a rant about being fed up with paying taxes to support other people, and the consequences of your choices, and paying your own bills. And then, immediately after slamming the other posters as "Godless bleeding heart liberals" she said that anybody who didn't have the money to pay for their own healthcare deserved to die. Sad to say, comments like that don't even surprise me anymore.
In a perfect world there would be no poor people, no unplanned pregnancies, no lost jobs, and no catastrophic illnesses. Everyone would follow the prescribed life plan to get an education, marry, and have kids only if they have money. Unfortunately the world isn't perfect and things don't always go as planned. According to the Bible there will always be poor among us, and they are blessed.
My husband and I struggled financially when we first married and I was still finishing college. I hid it from my parents because I didn't want them to worry. We were poor, but in a way it did bless our marriage and we appreciate all we have now so much. Maybe that is why I am so sympathetic to those who face similar challenges.
One of the commenters on the article was talking about her concern for her neighbors, a couple who owns a small business and has insurance through the ACA. The husband has cancer and is being treated with oral chemotherapy which costs $1300 per dose. She said the illness has devastated them financially and they are worried about losing their business and their insurance care. A few other posters offered sympathetic comments, suggestions, and similar stories.
A new poster went on a rant about being fed up with paying taxes to support other people, and the consequences of your choices, and paying your own bills. And then, immediately after slamming the other posters as "Godless bleeding heart liberals" she said that anybody who didn't have the money to pay for their own healthcare deserved to die. Sad to say, comments like that don't even surprise me anymore.
In a perfect world there would be no poor people, no unplanned pregnancies, no lost jobs, and no catastrophic illnesses. Everyone would follow the prescribed life plan to get an education, marry, and have kids only if they have money. Unfortunately the world isn't perfect and things don't always go as planned. According to the Bible there will always be poor among us, and they are blessed.
My husband and I struggled financially when we first married and I was still finishing college. I hid it from my parents because I didn't want them to worry. We were poor, but in a way it did bless our marriage and we appreciate all we have now so much. Maybe that is why I am so sympathetic to those who face similar challenges.
wrote on 06/24/2017 at 9:10 pm:
Minimal skills = minimum wage. If people want to make more than minimum wage then they need to get some skills that are in demand. Bladen Community College has many programs that lead to good jobs and their tuition is reasonable. People can also get valuable job skills through the military, apprenticeships, internships, or 4 year colleges. Some of the fast food places are even funding scholarships for employees hoping they'll end on their management teams. I really don't like the entitlement mentality of those who wish to increase the minimum wage to $15. None of us should expect people in minimum wage jobs to be able to support a family of 4. They can barely support themselves for that. Why would anyone even expect such? The wise decision would be for mom to work too and to delay having children until they have a career instead of a minimum wage job. People should be supporting their own kids, not expecting the government to do so. It's not the government's job to ensure everyone has a certain standard of living (well, maybe in a socialist country, but America is a Constitutional Republic). Instead, it's the responsibility of each individual to ensure they have a good career by taking advantage of their educational opportunities, having a strong work ethic, and making good decisions. America is the land of opportunity, but people have to make the decision to take advantage of that opportunity instead of expecting everything to be handed to them. If minimum wage is raised, so will ALL wages. A cashier will never make as much as a nurse. All of those increases will be passed on to consumers and some jobs will be replaced by computers (self check out lanes we're already seeing in grocery stores and fast food ordering kiosks). In a free enterprise system the market determines wages. The better paying businesses get the better workers. Each business decides if and when they need to raise wages to compete. Again, the key is having a valuable skill so that business will have to entice workers with a higher salary.
wrote on 06/24/2017 at 10:11 am:
Mr. Jackson,
You make an interesting point about the minimum wage. I think eventually it could reach $15 an hour, but I agree it needs to happen incrementally.
I am not sure a national minimum wage is the best plan anyway. There is a vast difference in the cost of living in New York City and in Elizabethtown. It seems to me there are many factors that need to be considered in setting a minimum wage, and those factors are not the same in every location.
Still, I sympathize with a worker who works a full time job for 52 weeks a year at minimum wage and has to live on $15,600 for the year.
Doubling that to $31,200 is a lot more money. But it would still be difficult to provide for a family of four. That amount would barely be above the poverty level even in our area.
You make an interesting point about the minimum wage. I think eventually it could reach $15 an hour, but I agree it needs to happen incrementally.
I am not sure a national minimum wage is the best plan anyway. There is a vast difference in the cost of living in New York City and in Elizabethtown. It seems to me there are many factors that need to be considered in setting a minimum wage, and those factors are not the same in every location.
Still, I sympathize with a worker who works a full time job for 52 weeks a year at minimum wage and has to live on $15,600 for the year.
Doubling that to $31,200 is a lot more money. But it would still be difficult to provide for a family of four. That amount would barely be above the poverty level even in our area.
wrote on 06/24/2017 at 9:59 am:
You will have to ask GC about that, as he is the one who coined the phrase.
But he has previously stated on BOL that women 'have their place', so don't get your hopes up.
I'm sure you would just hate being left out.
But he has previously stated on BOL that women 'have their place', so don't get your hopes up.
I'm sure you would just hate being left out.
wrote on 06/24/2017 at 9:05 am:
Mrs. Sheppard, please tell me, am I one of the "old gang" or bunch? If not please tell me how I can join. I have never met any of the people who post on the guestbook, but would love to since we share so many common ideas. The meaning of the word liberal sure has changed over the years.
wrote on 06/24/2017 at 8:24 am:
Good morning to all:
Mr. Schaeffer:
A million years ago when I was in my teens, I can still remember my first jobs. They included cutting peoples grass in the hot sun, working at White Lake and out in the tobacco fields from sun up to sun down. I was probably paid the minimum wage or some figure well below the minimum. To tell you the truth, I was tickled pink to actually receive money for my labors. You don't see much of that today unless its being done by our friends from south of the border.
Anyway, I see the minimum wage as the first rung in a ladder where the wages of an individual continually go up according to ones education and experience. Its not meant to be a figure that a person can live on or more importantly, raise a family on. I agree that we all need more and more money just to keep up the spiraling cost of goods and services. But when that need is at the breaking point, look for another job or get that additional education. It can be done.
Unless you or someone else can convince me otherwise, I could never be in favor of doubling of the minimum wage. Sure, the minimum wage will continue to go up but it has to be gradually and according to the formulas used by the government. When these people have a need for more money, they can either take on a second job or seek more education as I've already stated. A person has to do whatever it legally takes to get ahead and provide for their needs and wants and for the needs of their family. For a short period back in the early seventies, my wife and I were working full time jobs, probably at minimum wage, and I still had to take on three other part time jobs just to provide for the needs of my family. Those of us who can relate to that are no better than people out there working today, we just had a different mindset. People have to stop this thing of relying on the government for their needs and wants for that matter, and take responsibility for own lives. Think about it.
Mr. Schaeffer:
A million years ago when I was in my teens, I can still remember my first jobs. They included cutting peoples grass in the hot sun, working at White Lake and out in the tobacco fields from sun up to sun down. I was probably paid the minimum wage or some figure well below the minimum. To tell you the truth, I was tickled pink to actually receive money for my labors. You don't see much of that today unless its being done by our friends from south of the border.
Anyway, I see the minimum wage as the first rung in a ladder where the wages of an individual continually go up according to ones education and experience. Its not meant to be a figure that a person can live on or more importantly, raise a family on. I agree that we all need more and more money just to keep up the spiraling cost of goods and services. But when that need is at the breaking point, look for another job or get that additional education. It can be done.
Unless you or someone else can convince me otherwise, I could never be in favor of doubling of the minimum wage. Sure, the minimum wage will continue to go up but it has to be gradually and according to the formulas used by the government. When these people have a need for more money, they can either take on a second job or seek more education as I've already stated. A person has to do whatever it legally takes to get ahead and provide for their needs and wants and for the needs of their family. For a short period back in the early seventies, my wife and I were working full time jobs, probably at minimum wage, and I still had to take on three other part time jobs just to provide for the needs of my family. Those of us who can relate to that are no better than people out there working today, we just had a different mindset. People have to stop this thing of relying on the government for their needs and wants for that matter, and take responsibility for own lives. Think about it.
wrote on 06/23/2017 at 11:54 pm:
By the way, "small-minded" simply means to have rigidly firm opinions. Would you not describe your opinions that way?
wrote on 06/23/2017 at 11:33 pm:
No sir, this is not a spat, nor is it friendly. And please do not refer to me as "girl".
I wasn't aware you were one of the "bunch" until you decided to involve yourself in the conversation. I'm sorry if my use of the phrases "older people" and "small-minded" offended you. It must be my 'educated elitism' that leads you to question my "thought processes" and "understanding".
So do you spend a lot of time watching FOX? Did you read those Bible passages I mentioned?
I wasn't aware you were one of the "bunch" until you decided to involve yourself in the conversation. I'm sorry if my use of the phrases "older people" and "small-minded" offended you. It must be my 'educated elitism' that leads you to question my "thought processes" and "understanding".
So do you spend a lot of time watching FOX? Did you read those Bible passages I mentioned?
wrote on 06/23/2017 at 10:48 pm:
Good evening once again:
Ms. Sheppard, please don't quit. I am so enjoying this more than you'll ever know. By the by- I checked your name with one of my friends in Dunn earlier today and they don't know who you are and neither do I. Sorry.
If we're to continue with our friendly little spat, I do wish that you'd get your thought processes in order. Listen up, whether it's called a threat or a friendly warning as you describe it, it's the same thing girl. Please understand that we can agree to disagree on certain things and we never have to sink that low, now do we? Try real hard, you can do it. Here on guestbook, we can share opinions, ideas, frustrations, achievements, etc., and we can also make comments about national and world events. There's really no need for you to threaten or give another guest a friendly warning about anything, now is there?
There you go again. In one of your earlier statements, which has been deleted for some reason, you grouped a bunch of us together into one category but now in your latest comments, you changed your mind and by saying that Dems along with us conservative Republicans are NOT the same and that we're all different. Finally, you said something that we can both agree on. So which is it? "Small minded," are you serious. If you would go back and read and think about some of the comments you've made, you would be able to see what every reader of the guestbook sees. You people. Opps, there I go again. Sorry. How can I be politically correct here? I can't, so what the heck. You liberal Democrats are always cutting people down, belittling people, warning or threatening people, and insulting people like me with comments such as "especially true of older people." Seriously, I could go on and on but surely, you get the point by now. If not, let me know and I'll try to explain it so even you can understand what I'm saying. Think about it and have a good night.
Ms. Sheppard, please don't quit. I am so enjoying this more than you'll ever know. By the by- I checked your name with one of my friends in Dunn earlier today and they don't know who you are and neither do I. Sorry.
If we're to continue with our friendly little spat, I do wish that you'd get your thought processes in order. Listen up, whether it's called a threat or a friendly warning as you describe it, it's the same thing girl. Please understand that we can agree to disagree on certain things and we never have to sink that low, now do we? Try real hard, you can do it. Here on guestbook, we can share opinions, ideas, frustrations, achievements, etc., and we can also make comments about national and world events. There's really no need for you to threaten or give another guest a friendly warning about anything, now is there?
There you go again. In one of your earlier statements, which has been deleted for some reason, you grouped a bunch of us together into one category but now in your latest comments, you changed your mind and by saying that Dems along with us conservative Republicans are NOT the same and that we're all different. Finally, you said something that we can both agree on. So which is it? "Small minded," are you serious. If you would go back and read and think about some of the comments you've made, you would be able to see what every reader of the guestbook sees. You people. Opps, there I go again. Sorry. How can I be politically correct here? I can't, so what the heck. You liberal Democrats are always cutting people down, belittling people, warning or threatening people, and insulting people like me with comments such as "especially true of older people." Seriously, I could go on and on but surely, you get the point by now. If not, let me know and I'll try to explain it so even you can understand what I'm saying. Think about it and have a good night.
wrote on 06/23/2017 at 7:40 pm:
Oh no sir, that was no threat. Take it as I intended it- a friendly warning. It is a small world where the past tends to follow you no matter where you move. You seem to be big on attaching labels to people and calling them certain things. I'm sure you know how those reputations stick with you no matter where you go.
As for your comments about "you people", I would think a man of your advanced years and experiences would know that all Democrats are not the same, just as all Republicans are not. There are about 13,000 registered Democrats in Bladen County and I can assure you we are not all alike. Stereotyping all "you people" as the same is a mistake small-minded people often make.
Isn't it interesting how often people confuse their own biased opinions with "the truth"? That seems to be especially true of older people who spend a lot of time watching FOX. Do you do that by any chance? You have all their talking points down really well.
By the way, you seem to think that continuing to throw the word "liberal" around is an insult. I don't know if you are a believer, but if you are I suggest you read what the Bible says about a liberal man and then compare it to what Christ has to say about a conservative one.
As for your comments about "you people", I would think a man of your advanced years and experiences would know that all Democrats are not the same, just as all Republicans are not. There are about 13,000 registered Democrats in Bladen County and I can assure you we are not all alike. Stereotyping all "you people" as the same is a mistake small-minded people often make.
Isn't it interesting how often people confuse their own biased opinions with "the truth"? That seems to be especially true of older people who spend a lot of time watching FOX. Do you do that by any chance? You have all their talking points down really well.
By the way, you seem to think that continuing to throw the word "liberal" around is an insult. I don't know if you are a believer, but if you are I suggest you read what the Bible says about a liberal man and then compare it to what Christ has to say about a conservative one.
wrote on 06/23/2017 at 6:44 pm:
Good evening to all:
Sometimes a comment left of this site just begs for a response. The one preceding mine is one of those.
But first things first-for your information, I was born and raised in Bladen County and my family has been here since the early 1800's. I chose to leave home after graduating from high school and served over twenty-three years in three different branches of the military. I retired as a lieutenant in the U S Coast Guard and yes, I'm one of the proud Americans who has earned the right to speak on matters of the world.
I've had the pleasure of living in many towns and cities of this country with Dunn being the last before my late wife and I decided to move back to Elizabethtown.
Having said that, I still see at a bitter little woman who seems to reflect the way all Democrats are. I've seem the same attitude at the state level as well as those Dems in Washington, DC. What is wrong with you people? Don't you realize that we're all Americans and that what we do should benefit the entire country and not just a party. No matter what party is in control, the actions of the President should be for the good of the country. Sadly, the last one did every thing he could to destroy this country. Talk about hope and change. Wow.
Your words tell us a lot about the person you've grown into. I'm not a professional anything but I can tell that you're full of hate. I've been around a lot and for the life of me I can't remember ever meeting a group of people that you described in you third paragraph. So obviously they don't clump together as you stated. Sorry. No matter what I write about the Democrats, it's always the truth and if you can prove otherwise, please let me know. Anyway, the things I've written do not fit the definition of a "RACIST," now does it? Sorry. When you or anyone else puts a comment on the guestbook pages, that makes it my business and I have the right to comment about those comments. Wrong again. Sorry. As for the "old gang" comment, I really have no idea what you're talking about, but if they are good Republicans then I'm on their side.
Lastly, I can only say one thing about the threat you made in your last paragraph. I try very hard not to harass people, I just speak the truth or do my level best to do so. If you can't handle the truth then maybe you need to reconsider your party affiliation. At least Republicans don't threaten people, we don't hate law enforcement, we don't burn down a man's business, we don't holler as loud as we can to keep others from speaking, we don't call people who don't agree with us a bad name, we don't create organizations like the KKK whos purpose was to harass and kill blacks and, as evidenced by our dislike for but acceptance of Barock Husein Obama, we let him be the President of the United States unlike you Liberal Democrats are doing with Donald Trump. He won, now let him make it or break it on his own. One last thing, unless it changes, the hatred you people exhibit throughout this country will eventually destroy us. Think about it.
Sometimes a comment left of this site just begs for a response. The one preceding mine is one of those.
But first things first-for your information, I was born and raised in Bladen County and my family has been here since the early 1800's. I chose to leave home after graduating from high school and served over twenty-three years in three different branches of the military. I retired as a lieutenant in the U S Coast Guard and yes, I'm one of the proud Americans who has earned the right to speak on matters of the world.
I've had the pleasure of living in many towns and cities of this country with Dunn being the last before my late wife and I decided to move back to Elizabethtown.
Having said that, I still see at a bitter little woman who seems to reflect the way all Democrats are. I've seem the same attitude at the state level as well as those Dems in Washington, DC. What is wrong with you people? Don't you realize that we're all Americans and that what we do should benefit the entire country and not just a party. No matter what party is in control, the actions of the President should be for the good of the country. Sadly, the last one did every thing he could to destroy this country. Talk about hope and change. Wow.
Your words tell us a lot about the person you've grown into. I'm not a professional anything but I can tell that you're full of hate. I've been around a lot and for the life of me I can't remember ever meeting a group of people that you described in you third paragraph. So obviously they don't clump together as you stated. Sorry. No matter what I write about the Democrats, it's always the truth and if you can prove otherwise, please let me know. Anyway, the things I've written do not fit the definition of a "RACIST," now does it? Sorry. When you or anyone else puts a comment on the guestbook pages, that makes it my business and I have the right to comment about those comments. Wrong again. Sorry. As for the "old gang" comment, I really have no idea what you're talking about, but if they are good Republicans then I'm on their side.
Lastly, I can only say one thing about the threat you made in your last paragraph. I try very hard not to harass people, I just speak the truth or do my level best to do so. If you can't handle the truth then maybe you need to reconsider your party affiliation. At least Republicans don't threaten people, we don't hate law enforcement, we don't burn down a man's business, we don't holler as loud as we can to keep others from speaking, we don't call people who don't agree with us a bad name, we don't create organizations like the KKK whos purpose was to harass and kill blacks and, as evidenced by our dislike for but acceptance of Barock Husein Obama, we let him be the President of the United States unlike you Liberal Democrats are doing with Donald Trump. He won, now let him make it or break it on his own. One last thing, unless it changes, the hatred you people exhibit throughout this country will eventually destroy us. Think about it.
wrote on 06/23/2017 at 8:47 am:
Mr. Jackson—I wholly concur with your opinion about the minimum wage. Making the minimum wage tax-free would loosen up some disposable income for the very lowest of wage earners. That’s all it is intended to do, but it would have a beneficial impact on employers as well, and eliminate the nonsense about increasing the minimum to some absurd and unsupportable level.
wrote on 06/22/2017 at 10:56 pm:
Sort of reminds one of there not being one shred of evidence that President Donald J Trump was in collusion with the Russians during the 2016 election. Just a delaying action against all the great things he and the Republicans want to do for our country. Given the chance he will MAKE AMERCA GREAT AGAIN. No time now to let up in supporting our President and the Republican agenda.
wrote on 06/22/2017 at 10:53 pm:
Good evening:
Just catching up with the latest comments added to "guestbook" and as usual, a liberal Democrat has chosen to entertain us with her total lack of understanding. For the record, please allow me to help you out by giving you the definition of a "RACIST."
Ms. Sheppard, a "RACISTS" is a person who shows or feels discrimination against people of other races, or who believe that a particular race is superior to another.
Now after you read the definition of what constitutes a "RACIST," would you please give us the date and time of the guestbook entry or entries you used to base your ridiculous statement on?
After reading your entry, I immediately asked myself this question - who in the world took her candy away? But the most important question I had is this - who hurt this women to cause her to hate half of the population of this country? Lady, thank God I don't know you and that you're not in my circle of friends. Contained in your comments is evidence of a lonely, bitter woman who is in great need of a close friend who could hug you when you're feeling down.
Mr. Schaeffer - I see no need to raise the minimum wage to what some people are asking for - $15.00 per hour. Burger flippers DO NOT deserve that kind of an increase when we have people in this country with degrees making less. Once that door is opened, workers in every occupation will demand an increase in their hourly wage as well. Where will it end? As for
our tax problem - I favor a well thought out FLAT TAX that everyone would pay without any deductions, and that would include all of the millionaires and billionaires. The people and the country would benefit from a FLAT TAX, even if the filthy rich protested. Fair is fair. Think about it.
Just catching up with the latest comments added to "guestbook" and as usual, a liberal Democrat has chosen to entertain us with her total lack of understanding. For the record, please allow me to help you out by giving you the definition of a "RACIST."
Ms. Sheppard, a "RACISTS" is a person who shows or feels discrimination against people of other races, or who believe that a particular race is superior to another.
Now after you read the definition of what constitutes a "RACIST," would you please give us the date and time of the guestbook entry or entries you used to base your ridiculous statement on?
After reading your entry, I immediately asked myself this question - who in the world took her candy away? But the most important question I had is this - who hurt this women to cause her to hate half of the population of this country? Lady, thank God I don't know you and that you're not in my circle of friends. Contained in your comments is evidence of a lonely, bitter woman who is in great need of a close friend who could hug you when you're feeling down.
Mr. Schaeffer - I see no need to raise the minimum wage to what some people are asking for - $15.00 per hour. Burger flippers DO NOT deserve that kind of an increase when we have people in this country with degrees making less. Once that door is opened, workers in every occupation will demand an increase in their hourly wage as well. Where will it end? As for
our tax problem - I favor a well thought out FLAT TAX that everyone would pay without any deductions, and that would include all of the millionaires and billionaires. The people and the country would benefit from a FLAT TAX, even if the filthy rich protested. Fair is fair. Think about it.
wrote on 06/22/2017 at 8:07 pm:
A response but yet not one shred of evidence showing ANYONE on this forum is a racist. As I thought.........there is none. Yet we do have evidence of slander: the action or crime of making a false spoken statement damaging to a person's reputation. I'm glad people can't delete their posts on here! The actions speak for themselves. I just hope nobody reading these forums believes slanderous with no evidence!
wrote on 06/22/2017 at 7:35 pm:
Monday evening’s Bladen County GOP Club meeting offered area Republicans an opportunity to review and contrast the differences between the secular-socialist agenda of Barack Obama, with that of the accomplishment-driven presidency of Donald Trump. Nationwide, it is clear that conservatives are energized by the Trump approach to national security, education, health care, economic growth, and realistic government reform. Equally clear, it is apparent that there are divisive forces within the Washington establishment, the mainstream media, and an entrenched, liberal/progressive bureaucracy that will stop at nothing to oppose the president at every turn.
Club members agree—it is time for Republicans nationwide to better understand what constitutional conservativism really means, and for Bladen County Republicans to understand how to articulate what it really means to be a Republican in what has historically been a strong Democrat county. A review of Board of Election data indicates that, while there is a growing base of declared Republicans in the county, there are still far too many unaffiliated voters who simply did not understand, at the time that they registered to vote, that they were not required to register as Democrat or Unaffiliated in order to vote in this county. Bladen County needs a strong, 2-party system—not an unchallenged, single-party system which offers no contrast in ideas and approach to governance.
Several business leaders within the Bladen County GOP Club pointed out that the president’s aggressive, pro-American trade policy, combined with less regulation and lower taxes, will promote a dramatic increase in economic growth. In fact, one club member asserted that there is strong research to demonstrate that if the minimum wage were to be made tax-free, it would have an immediate impact on local, state, and Federal economies. Noting that there has been a strong push nation-wide to increase the minimum wage, this club member noted that, instead, if each worker were allowed to make minimum wage tax-free, it would allow them to have more additional disposable income to cover many of the increases included in the cost of living. The additional disposable income would go directly into the economy to help taxpayers pay for the necessities they need daily, resulting in more revenue for businesses, and more tax revenue from the taxes incurred on purchases.
It was noted that, if Congress decides to increase the minimum wage, it will only hurt businesses, employees, and consumers. Businesses will be forced to cut staff and hours, while at the same time increasing prices. By the time those issues are factored in, employees will have returned to, or will be below, the current minimum wage at which they started! In other words, raising the minimum wage would actually become a wage reduction. The solution, instead, would be to make the minimum wage tax-free. (more info about this is available at: www.taxfreeminimumwage.com )
Club members agree—it is time for Republicans nationwide to better understand what constitutional conservativism really means, and for Bladen County Republicans to understand how to articulate what it really means to be a Republican in what has historically been a strong Democrat county. A review of Board of Election data indicates that, while there is a growing base of declared Republicans in the county, there are still far too many unaffiliated voters who simply did not understand, at the time that they registered to vote, that they were not required to register as Democrat or Unaffiliated in order to vote in this county. Bladen County needs a strong, 2-party system—not an unchallenged, single-party system which offers no contrast in ideas and approach to governance.
Several business leaders within the Bladen County GOP Club pointed out that the president’s aggressive, pro-American trade policy, combined with less regulation and lower taxes, will promote a dramatic increase in economic growth. In fact, one club member asserted that there is strong research to demonstrate that if the minimum wage were to be made tax-free, it would have an immediate impact on local, state, and Federal economies. Noting that there has been a strong push nation-wide to increase the minimum wage, this club member noted that, instead, if each worker were allowed to make minimum wage tax-free, it would allow them to have more additional disposable income to cover many of the increases included in the cost of living. The additional disposable income would go directly into the economy to help taxpayers pay for the necessities they need daily, resulting in more revenue for businesses, and more tax revenue from the taxes incurred on purchases.
It was noted that, if Congress decides to increase the minimum wage, it will only hurt businesses, employees, and consumers. Businesses will be forced to cut staff and hours, while at the same time increasing prices. By the time those issues are factored in, employees will have returned to, or will be below, the current minimum wage at which they started! In other words, raising the minimum wage would actually become a wage reduction. The solution, instead, would be to make the minimum wage tax-free. (more info about this is available at: www.taxfreeminimumwage.com )
wrote on 06/22/2017 at 5:35 pm:
Thanks for your post Leslie. It seems that Patsy Sheppard on the Bladen Journal website is indeed Patricia Sheppard here on BOL. Won't even comment on what that might mean. One thing that it doesn't change is her liberal democrat message. Who knows, next thing she might try is to move to the Fayetteville Observer with her views and join someone who is really racial in his opinion pieces, namely Myron Pitts. Believe there is another Pitts over there who is of the views as Patsy/Patricia Sheppard.
wrote on 06/22/2017 at 5:27 pm:
I don't think I used any words too big for you to understand. If you consider yourself part of Bryan's "old gang" then you are just what he is. Feel free to post wherever and whatever you want.
wrote on 06/22/2017 at 4:01 pm:
Wow, I sure wish Mrs. Sheppard would tell us what her statement "GC Bryan or any other right wing racist" means. Who are these racists she speaks of and how have I missed their racist posts? I don't personally know GC Bryan but have read most of his posts and have never seen any evidence of racism. While we do have free speech any racist comments would be in very poor taste and I would think Mr. Hester or an administrator would remove them. I'm guessing it's just another case of the leftist tactics: when you don't agree with someone's political beliefs just call them racist, homophones, xenophobes, and pretend you automatically win. Mrs. Sheppard's post may have just been the bait I needed to see what's going on over at the Bladen Journal site. She says tht she's been respectful but calling people racist who are not is NOT respectful. Respectful behavior is stating your case and agreeing to disagree. Lying about them is not respectful.
wrote on 06/22/2017 at 12:41 pm:
I just wanted to make you are all aware that I have been occasionally posting on the Bladen Journal site. GC Bryan just discovered this, so he has spent the past two days trolling of me over there.
Today he posted that his "old gang" from BOL would be showing up over there, apparently to harass me for my "liberal" views.
Feel free to bring it on. I was as respectful to the "old gang" at BOL as I could force myself to be, and that was 100% because of my admiration and respect for Mr. Robert Hester and the fact that he created this guestbook as a community forum.
If GC Bryan or any other right wing racist thinks I am impressed or afraid of the threat of his "old gang", they are very much mistaken.
Today he posted that his "old gang" from BOL would be showing up over there, apparently to harass me for my "liberal" views.
Feel free to bring it on. I was as respectful to the "old gang" at BOL as I could force myself to be, and that was 100% because of my admiration and respect for Mr. Robert Hester and the fact that he created this guestbook as a community forum.
If GC Bryan or any other right wing racist thinks I am impressed or afraid of the threat of his "old gang", they are very much mistaken.
wrote on 06/22/2017 at 10:16 am:
Noticed in todays FO newspaper that the democrats have run the table in four recent elections, or in other words, they lost all four elections. Already calling for new leadership. What they should be calling for is a complete overhaul of the entire party, to quit blaming somebody else and blame themselves(believe President Obama started that little diddy), to include the way they think, what they stand for, running for something instead of against somebody, complete overhaul of the party platform, and certainly as they react to their recent defeats NEW LEADERSHIP to include Pelosi, Shummer, and then we in North Carolina will take care of Mr. Cooper in the next governor's election. It couldn't happen to a better party; now let the PARTY begin, believe it has already started. And it is called the REPUBLICAN PARTY .
wrote on 06/21/2017 at 1:52 pm:
Sports: can you write a sports article regarding Scott Bowen? He will be playing in the Perfect Game WWBA National Championship June 30-July 7th in Lake Point Georgia with the Dirtbags 17u.
LakePoint is where the best amateur baseball in the country is played. Perfect Game is considered to be the elite amateur baseball scouting organization in existence, producing over 100 tournaments and showcases each year across the country. At Perfect Game events, players are performing with top level competition in front of college recruiters and professional scouts from all over the country.To date, over 750 players that have played in a Perfect Game event have also played in Major League Baseball.
LakePoint is where the best amateur baseball in the country is played. Perfect Game is considered to be the elite amateur baseball scouting organization in existence, producing over 100 tournaments and showcases each year across the country. At Perfect Game events, players are performing with top level competition in front of college recruiters and professional scouts from all over the country.To date, over 750 players that have played in a Perfect Game event have also played in Major League Baseball.
wrote on 06/20/2017 at 11:59 am:
Thank you Mr. Jackson for the informative letter you passed on to the readers of BOL.
Seems the pictures on the wall issue has come back to the attention of the commissioners. One has to wonder if those who are willing to put up the money for this expense would not be better off by defeating the issue of the pictures all together and let these kind hearted citizens wanting to fund the pictures on the walls on all county owned buildings to take the money and give it anonymously to Bladen We Care or some other worthy cause. If it comes up for a revote, hope the board will vote the issue down and then each member get out in the communities of Mother Bladen doing things that will cause the citizens to ask, WHO ARE THOSE GUYS? Then the voters of Mother Bladen will see that our elected officials are doing some things in the county other than spending the tax payers money. My thanks to those who are already seen out in the county doing things not to be seen but because they love the county and its people. After all, as the song writer/singer Jimmy Fortune so eloquently penned and sings; "their more than a name (picture) on a wall". And as Forest Gump said, "that's all I got to say about that."
Seems the pictures on the wall issue has come back to the attention of the commissioners. One has to wonder if those who are willing to put up the money for this expense would not be better off by defeating the issue of the pictures all together and let these kind hearted citizens wanting to fund the pictures on the walls on all county owned buildings to take the money and give it anonymously to Bladen We Care or some other worthy cause. If it comes up for a revote, hope the board will vote the issue down and then each member get out in the communities of Mother Bladen doing things that will cause the citizens to ask, WHO ARE THOSE GUYS? Then the voters of Mother Bladen will see that our elected officials are doing some things in the county other than spending the tax payers money. My thanks to those who are already seen out in the county doing things not to be seen but because they love the county and its people. After all, as the song writer/singer Jimmy Fortune so eloquently penned and sings; "their more than a name (picture) on a wall". And as Forest Gump said, "that's all I got to say about that."
wrote on 06/18/2017 at 9:25 pm:
Hello:
I'd like to share an email I received with the readers of guestbook and I do hope that you enjoy it and can appreciate what is being said. It reads as follows-
I'm 73 and I'm Tired.
Except for one semester in college when jobs were scarce and a six-month period when I was between jobs, but job-hunting every day, I've worked hard since I was 18. I WORKED my way through college-no grants, no loans, few scholarships. Despite some health challenges, I still put in 50-hour weeks, and haven't called in sick in seven or eight years. I make a good salary, but I didn't inherit my job or my income, and I worked to get where I am. Given the economy, there's no retirement in sight and I'm tired. Very tired.
I'm tired of being told that I have to "spread the wealth" to people who don't have my work ethic. I'm tired of being told the government will take the money I earned, by force if necessary, and give it to people too lazy to earn it. I'm tired of being told that Islam is a "Religion of Peace," when every day I can read dozens of stories of Muslim men killing their sisters, wives and daughters for their family "honor;" of Muslims rioting over some slight offense; of Muslims murdering Christians and Jews because they aren't "believers;" of Muslims mutilating the genitals of little girls; all in the name of Allah, because the Qu'ran and Sharia law tells them to.
I'm tired of being told that out of "tolerance for other cultures," we must let Saudi Arabia use our oil money to fund mosques and madrassa Islamic schools to preach hate in America and Canada, while no American or Canadian group is allowed to fund a church, synagogue or religious school in Saudi Arabia to teach love and tolerance.
I'm tired of being told I must lower my living standard to fight global warming, which no one is allowed to debate. I'm tired of being told that drug addicts have a disease, and I must help support and treat them, and pay for the damage they do. Did a giant germ rush out of a dark alley, grab them, and stuff white powder up their noses while they tried to fight it off?
I'm tired of hearing wealthy athletes, entertainers and politicians of both parties talking about innocent mistakes, stupid mistakes or youthful mistakes, when we all know they think their only mistake was getting caught. I'm tired of people with a sense of entitlement, rich or poor.
I'm tired of people who don't take responsibility for their lives and actions. I'm tired of hearing them blame the government, or discrimination or big-whatever for their problems.
Yes, I'm damn tired. But I'm also glad to be 73 because mostly, I'm not going to have to see the world these people are making. I'm just sorry for my granddaughters and grandsons who will grow up in that world.
Robert A Hall is a marine veteran and also served five terms in the Massachusetts State Senate. End.
Mr. Hall is an American and has the constitutional right to talk. He is also and ex-marine and has earned the right to talk. He, as you read above, is a five term Senator from the state of Massachusetts and again, has earned the right to talk.
Think about this-notwithstanding the fact that you have the right to free speech, what have you done for this country to earn the right to talk? If your answer to that question is nothing, then maybe you need to keep your mouth shut until you can do something for this country to earn that right. Are you a giver or just a taker? Think about it.
I'd like to share an email I received with the readers of guestbook and I do hope that you enjoy it and can appreciate what is being said. It reads as follows-
I'm 73 and I'm Tired.
Except for one semester in college when jobs were scarce and a six-month period when I was between jobs, but job-hunting every day, I've worked hard since I was 18. I WORKED my way through college-no grants, no loans, few scholarships. Despite some health challenges, I still put in 50-hour weeks, and haven't called in sick in seven or eight years. I make a good salary, but I didn't inherit my job or my income, and I worked to get where I am. Given the economy, there's no retirement in sight and I'm tired. Very tired.
I'm tired of being told that I have to "spread the wealth" to people who don't have my work ethic. I'm tired of being told the government will take the money I earned, by force if necessary, and give it to people too lazy to earn it. I'm tired of being told that Islam is a "Religion of Peace," when every day I can read dozens of stories of Muslim men killing their sisters, wives and daughters for their family "honor;" of Muslims rioting over some slight offense; of Muslims murdering Christians and Jews because they aren't "believers;" of Muslims mutilating the genitals of little girls; all in the name of Allah, because the Qu'ran and Sharia law tells them to.
I'm tired of being told that out of "tolerance for other cultures," we must let Saudi Arabia use our oil money to fund mosques and madrassa Islamic schools to preach hate in America and Canada, while no American or Canadian group is allowed to fund a church, synagogue or religious school in Saudi Arabia to teach love and tolerance.
I'm tired of being told I must lower my living standard to fight global warming, which no one is allowed to debate. I'm tired of being told that drug addicts have a disease, and I must help support and treat them, and pay for the damage they do. Did a giant germ rush out of a dark alley, grab them, and stuff white powder up their noses while they tried to fight it off?
I'm tired of hearing wealthy athletes, entertainers and politicians of both parties talking about innocent mistakes, stupid mistakes or youthful mistakes, when we all know they think their only mistake was getting caught. I'm tired of people with a sense of entitlement, rich or poor.
I'm tired of people who don't take responsibility for their lives and actions. I'm tired of hearing them blame the government, or discrimination or big-whatever for their problems.
Yes, I'm damn tired. But I'm also glad to be 73 because mostly, I'm not going to have to see the world these people are making. I'm just sorry for my granddaughters and grandsons who will grow up in that world.
Robert A Hall is a marine veteran and also served five terms in the Massachusetts State Senate. End.
Mr. Hall is an American and has the constitutional right to talk. He is also and ex-marine and has earned the right to talk. He, as you read above, is a five term Senator from the state of Massachusetts and again, has earned the right to talk.
Think about this-notwithstanding the fact that you have the right to free speech, what have you done for this country to earn the right to talk? If your answer to that question is nothing, then maybe you need to keep your mouth shut until you can do something for this country to earn that right. Are you a giver or just a taker? Think about it.
wrote on 06/18/2017 at 8:39 pm:
"Former President Ronald Reagan once said that 'freedom is only one generation away from being lost'. It has to be taught to our children. Our churches are only one generation away from apostasy; no one is born a Christian. Each individual must decide to accept Jesus as their Savior. Without good teaching of sound doctrine, our children might not come to know Jesus Christ." On this Fathers Day all Dads should take this to heart and get their homes in order. If it requires salvation for themselves, and the wife, so be it. God bless us all each and everyone.
wrote on 06/14/2017 at 9:49 pm:
Happy birthday to the President of the United States, Donald J Trump. God bless our nation. Those who know the worth of prayer, pray for our nation. It was a good evening to be at the mid-week prayer service.
wrote on 06/10/2017 at 8:34 pm:
One other thing about the county commissioners being recognized more. Was checking out the news on BOL about the spring fling over in Bladenboro and guess who shows up on one of the photo's BBQueing chicken? None other than commission chairman Charles Ray Peterson. Hence, the best way for county commissioners to get more recognition is to be out doing things around the county other than right before election time. Knowing Charles Ray, I know he isn't civic minded just to get recognition but he is civic minded because he loves to help out around the county because he loves this county and its people. Hence, the way for all of our county commissioners to be recognized more is to get out and get involved and the recognition will come. Don't get me wrong, Charles Ray is not the only commissioner that is civic minded but the truth be told that some of them are only seen at election time and at the monthly commissioner meetings.
Over in the sports section, congratulations to the East Bladen Hines men on furthering their education at the UNIVERSITY (not college) of MOUNT OLIVE. That's right, the college became a UNIVERSITY several years back; and it is a highly rated school athletically and academically. All the best to them as they excel on the track team at the University of Mount Olive.
Nationally, if the Russians tried to influence our political process in the last election; doesn't it take to candidates to have an election. Anyone wondering why Hillary is not being mentioned in all this discussion; she certainly was involved in the last election but to listen to the liberal news media, one would think President Trump was running against himself. Come on folks, jump in there and hold the news media accountable.
Over in the sports section, congratulations to the East Bladen Hines men on furthering their education at the UNIVERSITY (not college) of MOUNT OLIVE. That's right, the college became a UNIVERSITY several years back; and it is a highly rated school athletically and academically. All the best to them as they excel on the track team at the University of Mount Olive.
Nationally, if the Russians tried to influence our political process in the last election; doesn't it take to candidates to have an election. Anyone wondering why Hillary is not being mentioned in all this discussion; she certainly was involved in the last election but to listen to the liberal news media, one would think President Trump was running against himself. Come on folks, jump in there and hold the news media accountable.
wrote on 06/07/2017 at 9:34 pm:
Excuse me, but aren't there already pictures of the county commissioner boards from down through the years already on the wall of the commissioners meeting room in the court house. They do not run the health department, the hospital, the board of education, nor any other department in the county. Irregardless of the cost, if it only cost one dollar; it would be a waste of that one dollar of county taxpayer money. Thank God, at least four of the "too many" nine commissioners saw it as such and voted against this motion. Could it be that this will the first time that one of the five who voted for the motion will suffer defeat because of such an irresponsible vote. Looks like we need to elect some more republican commissioners to help those already on the board and chairman Peterson.
wrote on 06/06/2017 at 1:51 pm:
I do enjoy reading the various comments posted on this site. I would admit that the number of contributors is certainly a small number. Part of the blame for that is people like me who can't seem to take the time to put their thoughts on paper for plublic consumption. I can say this: When I can make my opinions and thoughts serve a constructive purpose, I will certainly post here. I don't know a lot, but sometimes I tend to say a lot 🙂 Thanks to all of you.
wrote on 06/03/2017 at 1:58 pm:
Was checking out the sports section of BOL and noticed the article where Mac Campbell stood with three of his sons. It is amazing how much good one man can be behind. No doubt it was a proud day in Mac's life to stand with three of his sons as their company was recognized for doing so much good. Just another example of good things coming out of Mother Bladen.
wrote on 06/03/2017 at 9:49 am:
To those who take the time off from their busy schedules to check in from time to time in order to read this forum, good morning:
To repeat myself, I used to be a contributor to the "Letters to the Editor" section of the Bladen Journal until he, the editor, refused to print a piece I did on the Democratic Party. My article was submitted during the election process and was not kind to the lady running for the presidency. I guess he didn't want people to read what I had to say. As a result, I chose to discontinue my contact with that paper and it was then that I learned about this site.
It was very rare that my articles every received an opposing comment but here on Bladen Online, just look at what's taking place. I love it. As stated previously by another contributor, that's the way it's supposed to work, isn't it? I'm truly honored to be included with the other three individuals our Liberal friend named. Understand this, if I take a month off from this forum, it will be done because I chose to do so, not because you want to run an experiment. As for me, I choose NOT to fall for your ploy because what has been said here is true, anyone and everyone who chooses to do so can contribute their thoughts, beliefs and convictions on Guestbook. That's called freedom lady-FREEDOM. Don't take your ball and run home to mommy, stick around and talk to us. It might take some doing, but if you'll take your blinders off and actually read about the history of the Democratic Party-maybe then you'll begin to see why we back the PRESIDENT. There's always hope that people such as you will come to realize that America's only hope is God and the Republican Party.
Think about it.
To repeat myself, I used to be a contributor to the "Letters to the Editor" section of the Bladen Journal until he, the editor, refused to print a piece I did on the Democratic Party. My article was submitted during the election process and was not kind to the lady running for the presidency. I guess he didn't want people to read what I had to say. As a result, I chose to discontinue my contact with that paper and it was then that I learned about this site.
It was very rare that my articles every received an opposing comment but here on Bladen Online, just look at what's taking place. I love it. As stated previously by another contributor, that's the way it's supposed to work, isn't it? I'm truly honored to be included with the other three individuals our Liberal friend named. Understand this, if I take a month off from this forum, it will be done because I chose to do so, not because you want to run an experiment. As for me, I choose NOT to fall for your ploy because what has been said here is true, anyone and everyone who chooses to do so can contribute their thoughts, beliefs and convictions on Guestbook. That's called freedom lady-FREEDOM. Don't take your ball and run home to mommy, stick around and talk to us. It might take some doing, but if you'll take your blinders off and actually read about the history of the Democratic Party-maybe then you'll begin to see why we back the PRESIDENT. There's always hope that people such as you will come to realize that America's only hope is God and the Republican Party.
Think about it.
wrote on 06/02/2017 at 10:08 pm:
Question for Mrs. Sheppard. I've noticed that a particular "Patsy Sheppard" has been active on other sites and her viewpoints are similar to yours. Would she be you under a "pen name"?
Don't know how one becomes an accepted political commentator? Maybe you can contact Charlotte Smith and find out. But the truth is, if it comes on BOL under any of their icons; then the guestbook is a perfect forum for folks who want to comment to do so. Good luck with getting on BOL under the POLITICS icon and good luck with the other forums you are using.
You did remind me of one thing that is pretty well known. A lot of people read BOL as we read each month when Mr. Robert gives the numbers for the previous month. A lot of people also read the guestbook and never make an entry themselves BECAUSE THEY DON'T CARE TO. Heck I even know a person here in Mother Bladen who doesn't have a computer NOR a cell phone. And he is, as the old country expression goes; "happy as pea lark". If Mr. Zuckerbeg had his way, this individual would probably be required to sign up for facebook, a computer, and a cell phone. Check that, I believe the last President we had did a great job of getting cell phones in just about everyone's possession at the taxpayers expense. Sounds a lot like Mr. Zucherberg's idea of a base salary for everyone at the taxpayers expense. Sounds like a certain group here in Mother Bladen who want the great school facilities but won't even vote for a quarter cent sales tax increase to go to the schools. Sooner or later the property owners of Mother Bladen will have to foot the cost. It really amazes me that people whose parents supported the Democratic party when they became old enough to vote followed right along "blindly" in the same path. They may have done some great things in the past, but as it stands now that party is going to be the ruination of our nation. God have mercy on America and please pass the biscuits.
Don't know how one becomes an accepted political commentator? Maybe you can contact Charlotte Smith and find out. But the truth is, if it comes on BOL under any of their icons; then the guestbook is a perfect forum for folks who want to comment to do so. Good luck with getting on BOL under the POLITICS icon and good luck with the other forums you are using.
You did remind me of one thing that is pretty well known. A lot of people read BOL as we read each month when Mr. Robert gives the numbers for the previous month. A lot of people also read the guestbook and never make an entry themselves BECAUSE THEY DON'T CARE TO. Heck I even know a person here in Mother Bladen who doesn't have a computer NOR a cell phone. And he is, as the old country expression goes; "happy as pea lark". If Mr. Zuckerbeg had his way, this individual would probably be required to sign up for facebook, a computer, and a cell phone. Check that, I believe the last President we had did a great job of getting cell phones in just about everyone's possession at the taxpayers expense. Sounds a lot like Mr. Zucherberg's idea of a base salary for everyone at the taxpayers expense. Sounds like a certain group here in Mother Bladen who want the great school facilities but won't even vote for a quarter cent sales tax increase to go to the schools. Sooner or later the property owners of Mother Bladen will have to foot the cost. It really amazes me that people whose parents supported the Democratic party when they became old enough to vote followed right along "blindly" in the same path. They may have done some great things in the past, but as it stands now that party is going to be the ruination of our nation. God have mercy on America and please pass the biscuits.
wrote on 06/02/2017 at 6:33 pm:
I will not be bullied, “challenged”, or manipulated into silence either and decline Mrs. Sheppard’s challenge. Mr. Schaeffer, you have already said everything I intended to say about there not being a monopoly or quota on the guestbook and I had already typed out the quote about the heat in the kitchen. We’re not stopping anyone from posting. Our freedoms today are based on everyone having the freedom to express their political views. When you silence one side then freedoms are quickly lost. I’m having a hard time believing that Mrs. Sheppard did not intend to silences us because that’s exactly what she asked us to do: not post for one month (after telling us she wouldn’t be posting for 9 months LOL). I can’t even begin to make sense of her statement, “I had no idea this was the only site that allowed you free expression”. Why would we choose another site when we specifically like the local site? If she’s suggesting someone move, why doesn’t she? She already mentioned that she is active on other sites.
She says that people often ask her why she stopped posting (yet she hasn’t). People sometimes ask me when I’ll be posting again. We often hang out with like minded people in our spare time so it makes sense that we would be hearing opposite comments. The reality is that it takes TWO or more DIFFERING viewpoints to have a good debate. Otherwise it’s just brainwashing.
If Mrs. Sheppard will take the time to review pasts posts she will find that there have been periods when I have gone for months without posting, either because I was too busy or because someone already made the same points I was going to make. I do enjoy a great political debate, but I don’t enjoy repetition. I enjoy reading new points that I might not have considered. I couldn’t care less about the numbers of conservative vs. liberal posts. So technically I’ve already unknowingly completed her challenge. If Mrs. Sheppard doesn’t like reading our posts she’s welcome to contact the staff of Bladenonline to complain. However, any rules they set would have to apply to her as well. It would be unethical for them to take a side. I would like to remind Mrs. Sheppard that in the past she has insulted me by calling me names and stating that I believe things that I don’t. I really hate it when she presumes to read my mind (and is wrong). Although we have freedom of speech, I do believe we should keep it civil and I have always done that. I would also like to remind her that while she says she is tired of our posts, she INVITED this last round by stating that anyone who had posted regarding Zuckerburg’s speech had not read it in its entirety and was repeating fake news. Again, she was wrong. I did read it completely and she has not responded with this “fake news” site that she believes formed my opinion. I was against a “universal income”, “income equality”, and all other forms of socialism long before Zuckerburg was even born. No “fake news” site planted that idea in my head. Of course we responded when she threw out a false presumption (and I’m being kind in my wording). If she didn’t want to hear from us she shouldn’t have thrown out that bait!
To sum it up in the words of a dear friend, “Don’t create thunderstorms then cry when the raindrops start to fall”.
She says that people often ask her why she stopped posting (yet she hasn’t). People sometimes ask me when I’ll be posting again. We often hang out with like minded people in our spare time so it makes sense that we would be hearing opposite comments. The reality is that it takes TWO or more DIFFERING viewpoints to have a good debate. Otherwise it’s just brainwashing.
If Mrs. Sheppard will take the time to review pasts posts she will find that there have been periods when I have gone for months without posting, either because I was too busy or because someone already made the same points I was going to make. I do enjoy a great political debate, but I don’t enjoy repetition. I enjoy reading new points that I might not have considered. I couldn’t care less about the numbers of conservative vs. liberal posts. So technically I’ve already unknowingly completed her challenge. If Mrs. Sheppard doesn’t like reading our posts she’s welcome to contact the staff of Bladenonline to complain. However, any rules they set would have to apply to her as well. It would be unethical for them to take a side. I would like to remind Mrs. Sheppard that in the past she has insulted me by calling me names and stating that I believe things that I don’t. I really hate it when she presumes to read my mind (and is wrong). Although we have freedom of speech, I do believe we should keep it civil and I have always done that. I would also like to remind her that while she says she is tired of our posts, she INVITED this last round by stating that anyone who had posted regarding Zuckerburg’s speech had not read it in its entirety and was repeating fake news. Again, she was wrong. I did read it completely and she has not responded with this “fake news” site that she believes formed my opinion. I was against a “universal income”, “income equality”, and all other forms of socialism long before Zuckerburg was even born. No “fake news” site planted that idea in my head. Of course we responded when she threw out a false presumption (and I’m being kind in my wording). If she didn’t want to hear from us she shouldn’t have thrown out that bait!
To sum it up in the words of a dear friend, “Don’t create thunderstorms then cry when the raindrops start to fall”.
wrote on 06/02/2017 at 5:27 pm:
It was not my intent to offend or "silence" anyone, as I had no idea this was the only site that allowed you free expression. My suggestion was just for a temporary break to see if it would increase the number of people who utilize the Guestbook.
I simply do not think a community based guestbook is an appropriate venue for your type of political commentary. I wish BOL had separate discussion options, like for example in the Politics section.
Many people have asked why I stopped commenting here, and some of them have said they stopped visiting and/or commenting because of the tenor of the comments or would be hesitant to post here because of them.
You are of course all free to carry on as you choose.
I simply do not think a community based guestbook is an appropriate venue for your type of political commentary. I wish BOL had separate discussion options, like for example in the Politics section.
Many people have asked why I stopped commenting here, and some of them have said they stopped visiting and/or commenting because of the tenor of the comments or would be hesitant to post here because of them.
You are of course all free to carry on as you choose.
wrote on 06/02/2017 at 4:09 pm:
Anyone…at any time…can insert a comment into this forum. It doesn’t require that any four particular posters abstain in order to make room for them.
The notion that a certain, specific group of individuals is ‘monopolizing’ this forum is, thus, utter nonsense. But…coming from an admitted ‘liberal Democrat’, the suggestion that those certain, specific four individuals refrain from commenting only tells me that whatever they (me) is submitting into this forum is rankling the delicate sensitivities of the liberal Left.
If there is one thing liberals and progressives cannot endure, it is when THEIR cherished notions of what IS, or is NOT politically correct, becomes challenged. As we have seen on college campuses all across the country, the general reaction of the liberal Left to challenges against their ideology ranges from shrill protests, to outright vandalism, to wanton, civil destruction. So, in light of this sort of UN-civil disagreement, YOU think that conservatives should simply shut up for nine months? And do what—allow liberal/progressives free rein to attack, diminish, and disparage every single thing that the President, the GOP, and any and all other conservative movers and shakers are trying to do to re-establish this country onto a constitutionally responsible footing??? Fat chance of THAT happening! The days of conservatives being ‘wallflowers’ is over. Your liberal ideas WILL be challenged, and your progressive paradigm for America WILL be attacked and challenged.
Anyone—absolutely ANYONE—who is interested in expressing their point of view has free rein and opportunity to do so in this forum, within the constraints of acceptable civil discourse. But once having done so, that means that those expressed ideas and opinions become fair fodder for attack, criticism, and general discussion. You can count on it.
No one who submits into this forum is a fool—we all know quite clearly that politics is a rigged game, and it was Donald Trump who pointed out the reality of the cesspool of corruption which characterizes Washington, DC. He stated his intention to ‘drain the swamp’, and restore representative government to the people. Predictably, he is uniformly hated by BOTH parties for trying to do so. What comes as no surprise to ANY conservative who posts into this forum is the often inaccurate, often erroneous versions of reality being foisted onto the public by liberals in a deliberate attempt to re-shape popular opinion to support THEIR distorted perceptions of reality. Those days are over, and liberal/progressive distortions of truth WILL be robustly challenged! The freedoms, and the future of America, is at stake.
So, to put it more succinctly—if you can’t stand the heat, stay out of the kitchen. If you cannot—or will not—defend your ideas or positions, then clearly, they were not worth defending or arguing for in the first place. Conservatives, Libertarians, and other assorted sorts of members of the GOP, WILL challenge you. That is what debate on a public forum is all about.
The notion that a certain, specific group of individuals is ‘monopolizing’ this forum is, thus, utter nonsense. But…coming from an admitted ‘liberal Democrat’, the suggestion that those certain, specific four individuals refrain from commenting only tells me that whatever they (me) is submitting into this forum is rankling the delicate sensitivities of the liberal Left.
If there is one thing liberals and progressives cannot endure, it is when THEIR cherished notions of what IS, or is NOT politically correct, becomes challenged. As we have seen on college campuses all across the country, the general reaction of the liberal Left to challenges against their ideology ranges from shrill protests, to outright vandalism, to wanton, civil destruction. So, in light of this sort of UN-civil disagreement, YOU think that conservatives should simply shut up for nine months? And do what—allow liberal/progressives free rein to attack, diminish, and disparage every single thing that the President, the GOP, and any and all other conservative movers and shakers are trying to do to re-establish this country onto a constitutionally responsible footing??? Fat chance of THAT happening! The days of conservatives being ‘wallflowers’ is over. Your liberal ideas WILL be challenged, and your progressive paradigm for America WILL be attacked and challenged.
Anyone—absolutely ANYONE—who is interested in expressing their point of view has free rein and opportunity to do so in this forum, within the constraints of acceptable civil discourse. But once having done so, that means that those expressed ideas and opinions become fair fodder for attack, criticism, and general discussion. You can count on it.
No one who submits into this forum is a fool—we all know quite clearly that politics is a rigged game, and it was Donald Trump who pointed out the reality of the cesspool of corruption which characterizes Washington, DC. He stated his intention to ‘drain the swamp’, and restore representative government to the people. Predictably, he is uniformly hated by BOTH parties for trying to do so. What comes as no surprise to ANY conservative who posts into this forum is the often inaccurate, often erroneous versions of reality being foisted onto the public by liberals in a deliberate attempt to re-shape popular opinion to support THEIR distorted perceptions of reality. Those days are over, and liberal/progressive distortions of truth WILL be robustly challenged! The freedoms, and the future of America, is at stake.
So, to put it more succinctly—if you can’t stand the heat, stay out of the kitchen. If you cannot—or will not—defend your ideas or positions, then clearly, they were not worth defending or arguing for in the first place. Conservatives, Libertarians, and other assorted sorts of members of the GOP, WILL challenge you. That is what debate on a public forum is all about.
wrote on 06/02/2017 at 11:45 am:
Mr. Zuckerberg's speech to Harvard University's graduating class sure has struck a nerve when it brings out of the past one of BOL's all time great posters. She was very active on this medium during Mrs. Clinton run for the presidency back in 2016; then she all of a sudden disappears. One would have to wonder if she got on a plane with some of the others who said they would leave the country if Donald J, Trump won. But non-truths are often spoken in the heat of any battle and all the past election was, was another election for President of the United States. It is obvious as one looks at C-SPAN that most of the Democrats still haven't accepted the fact that our President's name is Donald J. Trump not Hillary Rodham Clinton. Get over it, he won; he is our President.
But I digress. On 5/30 Mrs. Sheppard did reappear in her true fashion "doubting" whether people can read for themselves and form opinions for themselves about what they have read; so she gives BOL the full Zuckerberg speech. Seems to me she needs to get her doubts under control because she does not have the ability of Almighty God to know whether posters have read or heard the speech in its entirety.
On 5/31 she reappears and breaks our hearts by stating she will not be back for nine months Shucks, and we were all so excited that she was back. But as one person noted, people of her political persuasion are not known for meaning what they say.
Nine months passes oh so quickly, as any lady who has ever given birth can attest. However, it does not pass in one day. You guessed it, she was back on 6/1 and this time she couldn't quite get her "IFs" settled. In reality, that is the way guestbook suppose to work; continuing to comment on things that are happening and things being posted. She may not realize it, but she is very important to the success of guestbook.
Well, on 6/2 she reappears again requesting that" the monopolizers" of guestbook not post for 30 days and give others a chance to use this wonderful medium. Now, isn't that just like liberals; once the conservatives win an election, the liberals don't want us say or do anything. Well, we are not going to be silenced and the message is beginning to sink in that conservatives have taken so much for so long and we are not going to do it anymore. We are in the process of "MAKING AMERICA GREAT AGAIN". Anyone who has given any kind of serious thought to what President Trump and his cabinet have proposed over the course of his tenure in office can see that he intends to put "AMERICA FIRST" I everything for the next four years and hopefully eight. No, by the help of Almighty God we will not be silenced for 30 days nor one day. Hallelujah, praise God, and pass the biscuits.
But I digress. On 5/30 Mrs. Sheppard did reappear in her true fashion "doubting" whether people can read for themselves and form opinions for themselves about what they have read; so she gives BOL the full Zuckerberg speech. Seems to me she needs to get her doubts under control because she does not have the ability of Almighty God to know whether posters have read or heard the speech in its entirety.
On 5/31 she reappears and breaks our hearts by stating she will not be back for nine months Shucks, and we were all so excited that she was back. But as one person noted, people of her political persuasion are not known for meaning what they say.
Nine months passes oh so quickly, as any lady who has ever given birth can attest. However, it does not pass in one day. You guessed it, she was back on 6/1 and this time she couldn't quite get her "IFs" settled. In reality, that is the way guestbook suppose to work; continuing to comment on things that are happening and things being posted. She may not realize it, but she is very important to the success of guestbook.
Well, on 6/2 she reappears again requesting that" the monopolizers" of guestbook not post for 30 days and give others a chance to use this wonderful medium. Now, isn't that just like liberals; once the conservatives win an election, the liberals don't want us say or do anything. Well, we are not going to be silenced and the message is beginning to sink in that conservatives have taken so much for so long and we are not going to do it anymore. We are in the process of "MAKING AMERICA GREAT AGAIN". Anyone who has given any kind of serious thought to what President Trump and his cabinet have proposed over the course of his tenure in office can see that he intends to put "AMERICA FIRST" I everything for the next four years and hopefully eight. No, by the help of Almighty God we will not be silenced for 30 days nor one day. Hallelujah, praise God, and pass the biscuits.
wrote on 06/02/2017 at 10:35 am:
While I am a liberal Democrat, I am not running, hiding, or waiting for change. I am actively involved in making changes that I believe are positive, and I am regularly engaged in political discussions in various appropriate arenas with Democrats, Republicans, and Independents.
I just choose not to do that on this site with the kind of people who monopolize it. As I mentioned earlier, Psalm 26:4-5.
So here is a challenge I hope Mr. Schaffer, Mr. Jackson, Mr. Bryan, and Ms. Pate will consider: Agree to stop posting completely on this guestbook for one month, as I will agree to do.
I suspect that many other people will step forward with comments and discussions once they know that they will not have to share the space with harsh political commentary or personal insults.
But if there truly is no other interest in this forum than from the four of you, you can take it back over at the end of one month.
Will you agree to my challenge, take a break from BOL's guestbook, and give others a chance to freely use it?
I just choose not to do that on this site with the kind of people who monopolize it. As I mentioned earlier, Psalm 26:4-5.
So here is a challenge I hope Mr. Schaffer, Mr. Jackson, Mr. Bryan, and Ms. Pate will consider: Agree to stop posting completely on this guestbook for one month, as I will agree to do.
I suspect that many other people will step forward with comments and discussions once they know that they will not have to share the space with harsh political commentary or personal insults.
But if there truly is no other interest in this forum than from the four of you, you can take it back over at the end of one month.
Will you agree to my challenge, take a break from BOL's guestbook, and give others a chance to freely use it?
wrote on 06/01/2017 at 10:21 pm:
Ms Sheppard—you can be sure my comments weren’t offered in bitter, negative anger, and I am truly not a sad, little old man, sitting in a rocking chair on a front porch, consumed by sad memories of times long gone.
In fact, I mean every single bit of the sarcasm I intended to convey. While I can also be consumed by positive comments and good news, I think it’s long past time for conservatives, libertarians, and members of the GOP in general, to ‘man up’, pull up their big-boy panties, and get over the notion that their only possible response to liberal/progressive assaults on conservatism is to pull back, hide their heads in the sand, and tearfully apologize if they offended anyone! In THIS time, and in THIS day and age, common sense, coupled with a legitimate, conservative, and constitutionally-correct approach to republican government, is a concept which has been utterly destroyed by the liberal-Leftists in politics, the media, and the entertainment complex in Hollywood. It’s time for conservatives to fight back.
Democrats are past masters at deflection, hateful sarcasm, and snide and destructive innuendoes. While I am not suggesting that conservatives sink into the same gutter as the liberal/progressives, I AM suggesting that Democrats get used to the fact that conservatives have had enough. We clearly have a strong champion in the White House who is not deterred by bizarre and groundless attacks from the Left, and neither should we be.
While Democrats still champion their savior, Barack Obama, and consider him to be the very pinnacle of wisdom and articulation, there is no dispute that Obama drew much of his OWN inspiration from the radical writings and behaviour of people such as Saul Alinsky (who wrote, ‘Rules For Radicals’), convicted terrorists such as Bill Ayers and Bernadine Dorne, the Communist mentor, Frank Marshall Davis, and Black Liberation proponent, the Rev. Jeremiah Wright. Obama clearly endorsed a Marxist/Socialist paradigm for America, and did (and is still doing!) everything that he can to make it a reality! Hillary and Bill Clinton pursued their own corrupt paths to the White House, and—thankfully—Hillary Clinton was seen for the delusional harridan that she is, and was defeated!
Conservatives have had enough, and if you detect sarcasm, or an unkind or critical remark in my post, it’s because I have intended for it to be there! Republicans are slow enough, but it seems that Democrats are even slower to realize that the tables have turned, the times have changed, and a cultural and political revolution is now underway! Conservatives have finally awakened, and begun to realize that we are in danger of losing our republic to a violent, aggressive, Left-wing philosophy bent on destroying America as we have known it. We are fighting back—fighting for America—fighting for the freedoms and liberties which are enshrined in the Bill of Rights, and fighting for the legitimate and original principles of the constitution, as envisioned by our Founding Fathers.
We are turning the tables on the Democrats, and the future of the United States of America is at stake!
In fact, I mean every single bit of the sarcasm I intended to convey. While I can also be consumed by positive comments and good news, I think it’s long past time for conservatives, libertarians, and members of the GOP in general, to ‘man up’, pull up their big-boy panties, and get over the notion that their only possible response to liberal/progressive assaults on conservatism is to pull back, hide their heads in the sand, and tearfully apologize if they offended anyone! In THIS time, and in THIS day and age, common sense, coupled with a legitimate, conservative, and constitutionally-correct approach to republican government, is a concept which has been utterly destroyed by the liberal-Leftists in politics, the media, and the entertainment complex in Hollywood. It’s time for conservatives to fight back.
Democrats are past masters at deflection, hateful sarcasm, and snide and destructive innuendoes. While I am not suggesting that conservatives sink into the same gutter as the liberal/progressives, I AM suggesting that Democrats get used to the fact that conservatives have had enough. We clearly have a strong champion in the White House who is not deterred by bizarre and groundless attacks from the Left, and neither should we be.
While Democrats still champion their savior, Barack Obama, and consider him to be the very pinnacle of wisdom and articulation, there is no dispute that Obama drew much of his OWN inspiration from the radical writings and behaviour of people such as Saul Alinsky (who wrote, ‘Rules For Radicals’), convicted terrorists such as Bill Ayers and Bernadine Dorne, the Communist mentor, Frank Marshall Davis, and Black Liberation proponent, the Rev. Jeremiah Wright. Obama clearly endorsed a Marxist/Socialist paradigm for America, and did (and is still doing!) everything that he can to make it a reality! Hillary and Bill Clinton pursued their own corrupt paths to the White House, and—thankfully—Hillary Clinton was seen for the delusional harridan that she is, and was defeated!
Conservatives have had enough, and if you detect sarcasm, or an unkind or critical remark in my post, it’s because I have intended for it to be there! Republicans are slow enough, but it seems that Democrats are even slower to realize that the tables have turned, the times have changed, and a cultural and political revolution is now underway! Conservatives have finally awakened, and begun to realize that we are in danger of losing our republic to a violent, aggressive, Left-wing philosophy bent on destroying America as we have known it. We are fighting back—fighting for America—fighting for the freedoms and liberties which are enshrined in the Bill of Rights, and fighting for the legitimate and original principles of the constitution, as envisioned by our Founding Fathers.
We are turning the tables on the Democrats, and the future of the United States of America is at stake!
wrote on 06/01/2017 at 9:00 pm:
Lordy-Lordy:
Which is worse? A Liberal Democrat that would rather run off and hide for nine months hoping that the world will change into something that she can be a part of or the character aka TRACY that placed the last commentary on this site? Okay-you're right and I agree with the majority-TRACY-you're out of here.
A free country allows those of us who find a problem with the one section of Zuckerberg's speech to speak up and it also allows people like Ms. Schaeffer to spew her canned information that relates to people like Zuckerberg. It almost looks as though the Democrats send out a daily talking points that everyone must adhere to or else they won't be invited to the next party someone decides to have. Every single Liberal Democrat that is called on for an opinion gives the same message that all the others gave sometime during the day. Nothing changes for pete's sake. Ms. Schaeffer, don't any of you guys have an original thought that you can put forward? Whether you like what we say or not, it's down right childish of you or any other person to run off and hide just because you don't like the topic being discussed.
Allow me to give you some information that you may or may not be aware of. First, the definition of pompous is as follows: characterized by exaggerated self importance and likewise, the definition of a Liberal is: favorable to or in accord with concepts of maximum individual freedom.
If you understanding those two definitions, then surely you can understand why I called Zuckerberg a pompous liberal democrat. That's exactly what he is whether you can admit it or not. Ignoring it does not change the truth.
Are you aware of Zuckerberg's purchase back in 2014, of around 700 acres of land on the Hawaiian Island of Kauai? Well, after he made the purchase he discovers that a large number of native Hawaiians own small pieces of that land which has been in their families, some going back to the 1850's. That land is passed down from ancestor to ancestor and they are the rightful owners. Zuckerberg is not content with his 700 acres and wants complete privacy so he is suing around 300 native Hawaiians as he attempts to get all the land around him. Is that the kind of man that should be giving a commencement address? Not in my book. Maybe you need to go back a few years and read the commencement address that Bill Gates gave. Every thing he told them was great but the one piece of advice he gave to the graduating class that has stuck with me all these years is this-Life isn't fair, get over it.
Which is worse? A Liberal Democrat that would rather run off and hide for nine months hoping that the world will change into something that she can be a part of or the character aka TRACY that placed the last commentary on this site? Okay-you're right and I agree with the majority-TRACY-you're out of here.
A free country allows those of us who find a problem with the one section of Zuckerberg's speech to speak up and it also allows people like Ms. Schaeffer to spew her canned information that relates to people like Zuckerberg. It almost looks as though the Democrats send out a daily talking points that everyone must adhere to or else they won't be invited to the next party someone decides to have. Every single Liberal Democrat that is called on for an opinion gives the same message that all the others gave sometime during the day. Nothing changes for pete's sake. Ms. Schaeffer, don't any of you guys have an original thought that you can put forward? Whether you like what we say or not, it's down right childish of you or any other person to run off and hide just because you don't like the topic being discussed.
Allow me to give you some information that you may or may not be aware of. First, the definition of pompous is as follows: characterized by exaggerated self importance and likewise, the definition of a Liberal is: favorable to or in accord with concepts of maximum individual freedom.
If you understanding those two definitions, then surely you can understand why I called Zuckerberg a pompous liberal democrat. That's exactly what he is whether you can admit it or not. Ignoring it does not change the truth.
Are you aware of Zuckerberg's purchase back in 2014, of around 700 acres of land on the Hawaiian Island of Kauai? Well, after he made the purchase he discovers that a large number of native Hawaiians own small pieces of that land which has been in their families, some going back to the 1850's. That land is passed down from ancestor to ancestor and they are the rightful owners. Zuckerberg is not content with his 700 acres and wants complete privacy so he is suing around 300 native Hawaiians as he attempts to get all the land around him. Is that the kind of man that should be giving a commencement address? Not in my book. Maybe you need to go back a few years and read the commencement address that Bill Gates gave. Every thing he told them was great but the one piece of advice he gave to the graduating class that has stuck with me all these years is this-Life isn't fair, get over it.
wrote on 06/01/2017 at 6:52 pm:
Neither side of the political aisle has a monopoly on poor behavior, and my comments were not aimed particularly at either side.
Mr. Schaffer, I do hope you find some relief from your bitter anger soon. I take it you are not a young man, and the negativity that you express here cannot be a pleasant way to spend your retirement years.
I am not leaving in a pout as you say, but to use my time in other places. I sincerely do hope that if I visit this site again in nine months it will be to find it full of Bladen County residents sharing positive comments and good news about our county, state, and world.
Life is too short, and far too good, to spend it on sarcasm and unkind, critical remarks. I sincerely hope you soon find that to be true as well.
Mr. Schaffer, I do hope you find some relief from your bitter anger soon. I take it you are not a young man, and the negativity that you express here cannot be a pleasant way to spend your retirement years.
I am not leaving in a pout as you say, but to use my time in other places. I sincerely do hope that if I visit this site again in nine months it will be to find it full of Bladen County residents sharing positive comments and good news about our county, state, and world.
Life is too short, and far too good, to spend it on sarcasm and unkind, critical remarks. I sincerely hope you soon find that to be true as well.
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