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There seems to be a need for funding for improvements of area public educational buildings. Wouldn't it seem wise to use the additional 1 cent sales tax now in existence for this purpose, rather than adding another 1 cent to the sales tax? In these hard economic times, it seems more prudent to use present 1 cent sales tax already in existence for something really needed (improvement of educational facilities) rather than using it for pet projects and things that are not necessary.

The same thing

To the lady who sat on the bench in the park on Mother's Day. I went through the same thing. I was sitting on my sofa all day on Mother's Day.

Get rid of the drugs

Aiken would be a better place if we got rid of the crack dealers, the meth lab and the drug dealers.

Duck harassment

I have seen people harassing the baby ducks at ARMC. The people try to catch them. Lord only know why. Isn't it illegal to harass birds? Come on people, I saw teen girls, young men, even a mother and small daughter doing this. Let these little duck families be.

Camera lights

The City of Aiken could drastically increase revenues if it installed cameras with the lights at all intersections. In the past several years, there hasn't been a single day that I haven't seen someone run a red light. Most days it seems like a competition to see how many cars can continue driving through the red light. If we started issuing tickets, maybe people will drive more safely. At the very least the City will get enough revenue to fund its projects.

Consider the children

Did the lady who spent her Mother's Day alone on a bench at Odell Weeks even consider that her children would not know where to reach her?

Time of the parade

It would be so much better to have the Memorial Day parade mid-morning instead of in the heat of the day. It would be easier on the watchers and participants.

Vehicle analogy

In response to the TalkBack about gay marriage and motorcycle/automobile, you're comparing a motorcycle to a man and woman. This proves that there are stupid people in Aiken.

Call our TalkBack hot line at (803) 644-2384 and leave your message, or email it to us at editorial@aikenstandard.com. Readers' names are not necessary to make a comment and will not be published in the newspaper. Comments should be brief and to the point, and the Aiken Standard reserves the right to edit for space and content. ]]> Sat, 26 May 2012 23:24:16 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/052712-talkback--4028566 http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/052612-talkback--4026778
I've been broken into six times. I would like to apologize to the family and loved ones of whomever I catch breaking in my house again, and to the judge that says, "Oh, you naughty boy. We're going to tap you on the hand and let you off as easily again," he won't have that chance again if they come back to my house.

Hypocrites

Are Republicans going to constantly show what hypocrites they are for blaming Obama for the high gas prices and they don't give him any credit for gas going down to 50 cents a gallon in the last two months?

Remember mom

I want to respond to the TalkBack about the neglected mom on Mother's Day. This is my first year I spent without my mother being here. She passed away. I really missed her on Mother's Day. I just want to say, when your mother is gone, she won't come back. You should spend time with her while she's living.

Men vs. women

Old women who don't know how to drive need to stay away from the road. I'm a little old man, but I don't drive crazy.

Presidents

Jimmy Carter was the worse president we've ever had until Barack Obama. This guy is unreal.

Freedom of religion

I don't care to be a part of the AARP, Rotary Club, Hunting Club, Knitting Club and the list goes on. So I don't participate. But I do not force them out of existence. Everyone in America has the freedom of religion. No one forces you to participate. I don't care if you do. Just be open-minded enough to stop trying to deny us to be Christians and worship as we choose.

Anti-Obama

If Mitt Romney wins the election, I think he should move Obama back to Kenya.

Answer, please

A question for Mr. Mims. What is the difference between the deficit and national debt? I don't quite get it.

Call our TalkBack hot line at (803) 644-2384 and leave your message, or email it to us at editorial@aikenstandard.com. Readers' names are not necessary to make a comment and will not be published in the newspaper. Comments should be brief and to the point, and the Aiken Standard reserves the right to edit for space and content. ]]> Fri, 25 May 2012 21:00:43 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/052612-talkback--4026778 http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/052512-talkback--4024294 Gay marriage

A motorcycle and an automobile are required to have a license for use on public roads. They are afforded the same right of way and are subject to the same laws. No one finds a sign on an interstate that requires a motorcycle to exit while automobiles continue on. I have never seen a speed limit that singled out automobiles and excluded motorcycles. Same sex couples, likewise, should not be singled out when it comes to laws, rights and privileges, but to call their union a marriage is to pretend that my motorcycle can carry six passengers and the groceries (legally) and keep the passengers dry in the rain.

Slap in the face

While I was checking out in a local supermarket, the woman in front of me in the express lane had more than 30 items. She used a well-worn EBT card to pay for her groceries and then loaded her groceries into her Mercedes S600 with vanity plates. I know I do not know her situation, but I really wanted to tell her, "You're welcome." I truly do not understand the mentality of a person who relies on others in such a way that it is a slap in the face.

Driving rules

You may want to check the law before you blow your horn at me again. As of Aug 1, 2003, "The driver of a vehicle need not stop upon meeting a stopped bus when traveling in the opposite direction on a multi-lane highway or multi-lane private road." Whiskey Road is a multi-lane highway. Vehicles do not have to stop for a school bus if they are traveling in the opposite direction.

Unconstitutional?

In the May 22 edition of the Aiken Standard, there was an article in which Sen. Shane Massey referenced a clause in the state constitution that bars using public money to benefit private schools. That being the case, why has the state government been pursuing giving tax breaks to parents so they can send their children to private schools? This would be using public money to subsidize private schools, which appears to be unconstitutional in this state.

Toilet brick

They put the brick in the back of the commode so that you would conserve water. It does help. Editor's Note: If you place a brick, or a large jug of sand, in the tank of your toilet, it will reduce the amount of water used to flush the toilet. 

Call our TalkBack hot line at (803) 644-2384 and leave your message, or email it to us at editorial@aikenstandard.com. Readers' names are not necessary to make a comment and will not be published in the newspaper. Comments should be brief and to the point, and the Aiken Standard reserves the right to edit for space and content. ]]> Thu, 24 May 2012 20:50:14 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/052512-talkback--4024294 http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/052412-talkback--4021722 Not marriage

Remember when gays only wanted to visit their partners in hospital and be entitled to inheritance, a noble and just cause? They wanted civil unions, not marriage. Now they can have their civil unions or document legally anything they wish for their partners, but they are not satisfied. They want marriage. Let me explain, we heterosexuals are not like you. We love the opposite sex, and, when we are joined in matrimony, it is called marriage. It is beautiful, right and normal that we procreate and have families. What you want to call yourself is entirely up to you; however, your union is not marriage.

Boring

One of the things wrong with Aiken is that there is nothing for the youths to do.

School buses

I know this didn't happen in our state, South Carolina, but I don't understand why public school buses are used to transport kids to go to places like Six Flags. It's not right. Why should I spend my tax dollars for fuel, gas, upkeep and everything to take children to places like that when they can't half-way get to school in those buses?

Burning

I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to the individual who expressed rational concern regarding the controlled burning of Hitchcock Woods during the bird nesting season. I would like to add additional concern regarding the recent application of burn pattern affecting negatively the habitat of other species.

Money well spent?

It is a shame that the project to convert the old Coca-Cola plant on York Street to an EMS center is taking so long. We hope this project is better managed than the Pawnee-Neilson Connector, which took five years to complete and was horrendously over budget. By the way, regarding the Pawnee-Neilson Connector, it has almost no traffic and does not reduce traffic on the connecting roads. Was our tax money well spent?

Dancing

On "Dancing with the Stars," I would like to know why there was never a black man and a black woman dancing together.

Call our TalkBack hot line at (803) 644-2384 and leave your message, or email it to us at editorial@aikenstandard.com. Readers' names are not necessary to make a comment and will not be published in the newspaper. Comments should be brief and to the point, and the Aiken Standard reserves the right to edit for space and content. ]]> Wed, 23 May 2012 20:48:28 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/052412-talkback--4021722 http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/0523-talkback--4019388 DOE insurance

The Department of Energy health insurance stipend for SRS retirees comes with no assurance of a cost-of-living increases, and DOE has allowed the SRS pension fund (similar to Social Security trust fund) to be so dramatically underfunded. There will be no cost-of-living increases in SRS pensions for the foreseeable future. Another slap in the face to those especially older retirees on completely fixed incomes.

Colored hair

When you work front counter as a manager or a cashier in a food chain, you shouldn't have color in your hair. It doesn't look presentable.

Return documents

To the person that invaded our home, please return the important documents like discharge certificates, retirement orders, insurance policy and marriage record.

Neglected mom

Please do a story on the loneliness and heartbreak of parental neglect. I spent Mother's Day 2012 sitting alone on a bench at Odell Weeks. For the first time in 55 years, my children, all Aiken County residents, did not come to see me. I know I am not alone, and I am sure you will get feedback from others that have had their hearts broken by children they raised and love as only a mother can love a child.

Wrong way?

It looks for all the world as if two new traffic lights installed at the Pine Log/Silver Bluff/bypass intersection - the Blockbuster intersection - are facing the wrong way. Has anyone noticed?

White House

Why does the White House feel that it has the right to lecture Germany on fiscal responsibility?

Traffic rules

There is a right turning lane onto Highway 421 from the bypass. This lane does not have a yield sign. Drivers in the left lane coming from the intersection do not have the right to go into the right lane without looking for oncoming traffic. Please tell anyone that you know who drives on Highway 421. People need to stop making up their own traffic rules.

Good Show

What a wonderful performance on Sunday with the Aiken Choral and St. Paul's choir and the wonderful musicians who put on, "The Creation." More people should come out and do these things. ]]> Tue, 22 May 2012 21:38:27 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/0523-talkback--4019388 http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/0522-TalkBack2012-05-21T18-32-53 Social Security

Social Security and Medicare are not entitlements. Social Security was set up by the federal insurance contributions act, and the money that went into it was supposed to be a trust fund for those who paid into it. However, the politicians have taken the money over the years and used it for other purposes. They need to put back every dollar that it has ever taken from the Social Security Trust Fund.

Dog feces

I, too, have other priorities in Aiken other than picking up dog feces; it’s called respect for other people’s property.



Pick up

All of the parks in Aiken are a priority. It’s your money that built them. If you’re going to go to the park with your dog, show some respect by picking up after your dog.



Turn left

Most left-turn signals in Aiken need three cars waiting to activate them. This is done by a sensor in the road. It is rectangular and shaped like a car at most lights. If you are the only car in that lane, stop on the sensor instead of pulling all the way up to the white line. This will make the left-turn signal work.



Burns

Why are controlled burns conducted in Hitchcock Woods during the bird nesting season? This is a detrimental and unnecessary practice.

Call our TalkBack hot line at (803) 644-2384 and leave your message, or email it to us at editorial@aikenstandard.com. Readers’ names are not necessary to make a comment and will not be published in the newspaper. Comments should be brief and to the point, and the Aiken Standard reserves the right to edit for space and content.

]]> Mon, 21 May 2012 21:31:06 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/0522-TalkBack2012-05-21T18-32-53 http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/0521-talkback--4014626 Devine's article

The article that was written by Jack Devine is the most important article that's been in the paper. Everybody needs to understand what's going on with our economy. If they really study, they'd be scared to death.

Investigation

I am glad to see that the investigation on Gov. Haley is being reopened; this is her first and only term as governor because the electorate who elected her as a Tea Party candidate have been disenfranchised. She's become a Republican supporter of Mitt Romney.

Super Bowl ads

I am glad to see that GM has decided it's too expensive to advertise in the Super Bowl. It's always been too expensive. Nobody buys products because they were advertised in the Super Bowl. All we do is talk about how cool their commercials were.

Humor/sarcasm code

If humor or sarcasm is intended in the TalkBack column, there should be some code designation so people would know they should not put bricks in the toilet bowl to save water then try to sue Aiken Standard when the bowl overflows following advice from this column.

More opinions!

I missed the opinions page in the Aiken Standard on Saturdays. Is it possible to begin having it on Saturday also?

Just hold it in

Men who don't know how to use an inside toilet shouldn't use a public one. They mess it up for the rest of us.



Saving gas

We should thank all the people who don't bother to stop at stop signs. Think of all the gas they're saving for the rest of us.

Baseball bat ban!

To the person who stated in Saturday's TalkBack that guns were the problem in the five murders that took place in Aiken and the cure was to remove guns and gun shows, you're a moron. I guess if the murders were committed were baseball bats, you'd suggest that baseball bats be removed from the stores, right?

Death judgments

Our court system should make life or death judgments, not the police. Assign non-lethal weapons to the police. Period.

Call our TalkBack hot line at (803) 644-2384 and leave your message, or email it to us at editorial@aikenstandard.com. Readers' names are not necessary to make a comment and will not be published in the newspaper. Comments should be brief and to the point, and the Aiken Standard reserves the right to edit for space and content. ]]> Sun, 20 May 2012 23:54:31 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/0521-talkback--4014626 http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/052012-talkback--4012999 Overheard on the cell

I love most of the Mike Gibbons' columns, but the one from May 16 was great. Now let's hope that of the many who probably read it, at least one person will see how annoying they are. Please go back to your car or go home and talk on the phone. Most of the folks around you could care less about what Maribeth wore to church on Sunday, what Aunt Mable had done to her toenail or what you're buying for your dinner.



Obama's success

Many opinion letter writers have implied that President Obama hasn't accomplished anything in his time in office. I'd like to remind these naysayers that, without even working up a sweat, he has successfully stopped the flow of immigrants from Mexico, a feat previous administrations have failed to do. Recent reports show the net sum of people entering the United States from Mexico and those returning to Mexico is about zero. That's right - through his leadership, programs and policies, a sagging economy at his election has become a failing economy that doesn't even attract illegal immigrants seeking a better life. Here's a campaign slogan idea: "Who needs a fence when we've got Barack?"

Injustice in schools!

Jeers to the Aiken County School District for implementing a policy that penalizes our brightest young people and prevents their recognition as valedictorian and salutatorian at awards ceremonies, graduation programs, articles and other venues in their senior year. It made far more sense to allow the student to be named, and if GPAs changed after finals (which almost never happens), rectify the situation then! Injustice is an understatement!

Quiet, little Aiken?

What happened to Aiken? My husband and I retired and moved up here from Florida because it's a quiet, quaint, little town. With all these murders and shootings, what in the world is happening?



Bigger than poop?

If all your priorities is about dog poop in the park, you should move out of town. There's a lot more important things going on in this town. If it bothers you, pick it up yourself.

Comments or ads?

Is TalkBack for comments or advertisement? Somebody answer that.

Entitlement issue

The violence and break-ins have nothing to with race. It has to do with entitlement. They think they are entitled to take. ]]> Sat, 19 May 2012 23:32:50 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/052012-talkback--4012999 http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/0519-Talkback--4010673 Gangs

Everyone knows that the "underlying issues that can be prevented to avert further bloodshed" in Aiken are all drug-related and that the perpetrators are members of gangs that no one has seen fit to control for the last several years. I really don't care if they kill each other but they're now gunning down our police officers. When is this community going to wake up and crack down on these guys?

Guns

What a surprise. Another murder by gunshot in the City of Aiken. At least one shooting a month for five months has occurred and that's not including those only wounded and the lucky ones that were missed completely during drive-bys; or the stabbings that have happened. It's great PR for our city. What we need now are more guns, knives and ammo shows at H. Odell Weeks Activities Center. How and why is this allowed? I am not in favor of gun control, but I certainly don't think the city should be in the gun business.

Brick a toilet



To the person who wants to know how putting a brick in your toilet saves water: There are two ways this can help. First, putting the brick in the back of the toilet (water tank), will consume space and thereby reduce the volume of water required to fill the tank which reduces water usage with each flush. The other way is to put the brick directly into the toilet bowl and wait till the waste matter blocks the toilet from being flushed. This, too, will save water.

Commend

I'd like to commend the chairman of the board of election at Savannah River Site Retiree Association. I just read his column in the paper, and he hit the nail on the head.

On target

Karen Gutmann's article on May 18, 2012, was excellent and right on target. South Carolina's dropout problems starts with 3- and 4-year-old children not being prepared for kindergarten and beyond. If churches with empty classrooms during the week would open their doors and welcome in volunteer programs in preschool readiness, it would be a wonderful blessing to our schools, our community and to the children at risk of failure.

Call our TalkBack hot line at (803) 644-2384 and leave your message, or email it to us at editorial@aikenstandard.com. Readers' names are not necessary to make a comment and will not be published in the newspaper. Comments should be brief and to the point, and the Aiken Standard reserves the right to edit for space and content. ]]> Fri, 18 May 2012 23:52:05 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/0519-Talkback--4010673 http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/051812-talkback--4008327 Disappointment

I'm very disappointed in the school board. We need teachers to teach the children.

Best wishes

Mrs. Gubel, you will be truly missed at Oakwood Elementary. Students, parents and other teachers think you are the best. We love you and wish the best for you and your family.



Under the bus

Why have we, the American people, been thrown under the bus? Why can't we buy gasoline without ethanol? Why can't we buy light bulbs that we have been buying for years?

Wed by God

How ludicrous it is to state that Adam and Eve were not legally married. God married them. In Genesis chapter 2 it states that God made Eve from Adam's rib. Verse 24 states "for this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife and they will become one flesh" God illustrated for us that in marriage man and woman become one flesh. He could have made Eve from the Earth's dust like Adam, but he chose to make her from Adam showing this to be a very special union.



Figs and scissors

Does anyone know where to get scissors sharpened? Also does anyone have figs for sale? I am willing to pick.

Call our TalkBack hot line at (803) 644-2384 and leave your message, or email it to us at editorial@aikenstandard.com. Readers' names are not necessary to make a comment and will not be published in the newspaper. Comments should be brief and to the point, and the Aiken Standard reserves the right to edit for space and content. ]]> Thu, 17 May 2012 22:07:09 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/051812-talkback--4008327 http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/051712-talkback--4005784 Violence, break-ins

Aiken would be a better place if all the racists would get along and the violence and break-ins would stop.



Park animals

I go to the park daily. It is disgusting to pick up after animals even though you're using a scoop or something. Why not prevent animals from coming to the park and be done with it? It's not healthy picking up feces.

Thank you

It is so nice to realize that there are still good people in this world. I came home from work to find my two dogs had escaped from the back yard. After riding around looking and calling, I received a phone call from a couple that had found them over a mile away on the opposite side of the 118 bypass trying to cross back. They took time to stop, put them in their car and bring them home. Thank you very much. They are safe today because you cared.



Left-turn woes



Why does the left-turn arrow at the intersection of the bypass and Powderhouse not work? There's one hanging there, but it never comes on. Is there someone who can address this issue?

Call our TalkBack hot line at (803) 644-2384 and leave your message, or email it to us at editorial@aikenstandard.com. Readers' names are not necessary to make a comment and will not be published in the newspaper. Comments should be brief and to the point, and the Aiken Standard reserves the right to edit for space and content. ]]> Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:36 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/051712-talkback--4005784 http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/051612-talkback--4003515 Pick it up

People need to take a bag and pick up the feces and not leave them in the park.



A tribute to victims

I would appreciate if the paper would do a short remembrance of all the murder victims in Aiken so far this year. I've lost count. I also would like to attend a forum on the topic of reducing violence in our community, if anyone is hosting one. Why not downtown in the evening, so working folks can attend?

Shrink on duty?



When it rains hard like it has been this week, the police should travel with a "shrink" in the car so that when they ticket someone for reckless driving (for not having their lights on,) the shrink can test the drivers and determine it they are just ignorant or certifiable or stupid. The ignorant can probably be educated and permitted to drive, but the other two groups should be taken off the road. Remember: your lights need to be on in the rain so that others can see you more easily, not so that you can see them.



A brick?



For the person who put a brick in their toilet to save water, is there a reason? Editors Note: You can place a brick or a jug of water in the tank of your toilet so that it takes up space, and less water is required to flush the toilet. It even appeared in a episode of Wishbone for water conservation.

Veterans Day

I need to know that May 5 is known as the state national holiday for Veterans Day. I think it should be known world wide.

Marriage

To the people who are concerned about marriage and Adam and Eve, God, in heaven, performed their marriage.

Call our TalkBack hot line at (803) 644-2384 and leave your message, or email it to us at editorial@aikenstandard.com. Readers' names are not necessary to make a comment and will not be published in the newspaper. Comments should be brief and to the point, and the Aiken Standard reserves the right to edit for space and content. ]]> Tue, 15 May 2012 23:53:44 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/051612-talkback--4003515 http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/0515-talkback--4000286 Blessings

Last month on a Tuesday afternoon, I went to Reid's to pick up a few items. I was in a hurry, and, seeing this, a young man let me go ahead of him. On Wednesday morning, I discovered my wallet was not in my purse. I returned to Reid's where I discovered someone turned in my wallet, and the staff put it up. I would like to thank the young gentleman who I believe turned in my wallet. I would also like to say thanks to the staff and management of Reid's. In case you are wondering, my cash, checks, credit cards and all other personal items were just as I left them. May God bless you all.

Thanks

Thanks to Christ Central Ministry. Thank you for the wonderful service on Mother's Day. Thanks to Mrs. Adams for being a mother to the young and old.

Romney's wealth

For those who have heard only that Romney is a rich man who inherited his money from his father, that is true, but what the press has left out is that he donated all of his inheritance to the church. The money he has now he earned on his own. What is wrong with that? There are other things in his life where he has done some really kind things for others that have been kept under wraps. Romney is not a boastful man. That is not in his character or his faith.

Lane closed

When will they take away the "right lane closed" sign in front of Lowe's? It's been that way for several months. Either close the right lane or take away the sign.

Power shift

This is in response to the TalkBack titled "Power shift": You are making it seem like a person who works hard and profits from his labors can't also be a person who values mental, spiritual and physical health. What about the value of a good work ethic?

A better Aiken

Some readers would like to have a column that says "Aiken would be better if ..."  

Call our TalkBack hot line at (803) 644-2384 and leave your message, or email it to us at editorial@aikenstandard.com. Readers' names are not necessary to make a comment and will not be published in the newspaper. Comments should be brief and to the point, and the Aiken Standard reserves the right to edit for space and content. ]]> Mon, 14 May 2012 22:46:11 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/0515-talkback--4000286 http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/051412-talkback--3998504 New column

Still waiting to see something in TalkBack that says our readers would like to have a column called "Aiken would be better if" and then you have 25 words. You need to acknowledge it. Don't be stubborn, don't be irate, it wasn't your idea to start with.

Sign removal

Please, everybody, after you have your yard sales and it's over, please remove your signs.

Hide Sharpton

I think the Rev. Al Sharpton should go somewhere and hide. He's killing what slim chance Obama's got to get re-elected.

The true Word

In my honest opinion, I really think Obama's open acceptance of gay marriages has hurt his campaign much worse than all of the other goof-ups he has made. I as a believer know what the Word says, and it is not accepted. We as believers are not to hate anyone, but we must live by the Word of God. Every inspired word is truth and a lot of times even Christians cannot face what is written in the true Word of God. It's just like we are told to serve one God, yet some serve many gods. Honor your parents that your days may be long upon the earth, yet many elderly are put aside by their children and forgotten. We are told not to steal, yet many lie and steal just in the name of bailouts. We as believers had better start praying and asking God to help us before some wake up one morning and the believers have gone.

National treasure

SRS is a unique national treasure. Recently, President Obama quietly lauded a significant SRS international achievement, the first in the history of the world. To the whiners, not all SRS employees are exemplary to say the least, but those who are make the world a safer place to call home.

Storm cleanup

On behalf of the Southside community, we would like to give thanks to the power crews, SCDOT, Aiken Public Safety, Aiken County officers, and all of the volunteers for their help during Tuesday's storm. Everyone one of you demonstrated compassion beyond words. We are grateful. While there was some structural damage throughout the neighborhood, residents were blessed to escape injuries by the grace of God. We needed to say thank you!

Call our TalkBack hot line at (803) 644-2384 and leave your message, or email it to us at editorial@aikenstandard.com. Readers' names are not necessary to make a comment and will not be published in the newspaper. Comments should be brief and to the point, and the Aiken Standard reserves the right to edit for space and content. ]]> Mon, 14 May 2012 00:12:13 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/051412-talkback--3998504 http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/051212-talkback--3996965 Ineptocracy

Ineptocracy (in-ep-toc'-ra-cy) - a system of government where the least capable to lead are elected by the least capable of producing and where the members of society least likely to sustain themselves or succeed are rewarded with goods and services paid for by the confiscated wealth of a diminishing number of producers.

Favoring money

If anyone had doubts that Obama governs by which group or individuals give him the most money, his recent "evolving" statement is proof-positive. No longer useful because he knows blacks will vote overwhelmingly for him, the black church congregations were thrown under the bus for the gay community. After all, the gays can bring in more money for his re-election. It's called selling your soul to the highest bidder.

Classified text size

Why are the ads so big but the classifieds are so small? You need a magnifying glass to read them.

Marriage/procreation

Some people believe God created Adam and Eve so that there could be marriage and procreation. If you think about it, Adam and Eve weren't legally married, so their children were born out of wedlock. That's fine with me, but let's not confuse marriage and procreation. Same-sex marriage won't prevent procreation.



Voting to tax

Why should welfare people be allowed to vote to tax the rest of us to support them and their lifestyle?

'We Go On' T-shirts

We're interested in buying those T-shirts with "We Go On" printed on them. Where can we get them, and how will they benefit the Aiken Department of Public Safety? View the article: T-shirts benefit law enforcement trip to D.C. Bring a bag

People need to take a bag with them to pick up their dogs' mess when they go walking in Hitchcock Woods.

Celebrity waiters

Aiken Standard, why cant you print where the celebrity waiters are going to be so we can decide what restaurant we want to eat at instead of every year putting it after the event and then saying who the waiters are? It's so stupid, and you do it every year.

Call our TalkBack hot line at (803) 644-2384 and leave your message, or email it to us at editorial@aikenstandard.com. Readers' names are not necessary to make a comment and will not be published in the newspaper. Comments should be brief and to the point, and the Aiken Standard reserves the right to edit for space and content. ]]> Sun, 13 May 2012 00:00:29 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/051212-talkback--3996965 http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/0512-talkback--3995051 Thanks, coach

I want to thank soccer coach Ryan Eisenhower. He did a wonderful job. My son just adores him because he's so fair. He brings a smile to all of us. The parents all got together and wanted to say how much we appreciate him.



Taste of Home

The Taste of Home Cooking show this year was wonderful. Next year, however, let's have some different entertainment before the show.



Gay

Homosexuals stole the word "gay." It used to mean happy. Now, they want to steal marriage. Marriage is a man and woman. Let them have a union of some sort. If the church they belong to wants to unionize them, let them join their union and have the same benefits that marriage has. Just don't call it a marriage.

Power shift

If we want to improve our likelihood of survival as a nation, the power must shift from those who value profits above everything, to those who value the mental, spiritual and physical health of human beings and the well-being of the planet and its inhabitants.

Dental scrap

Beware of a dentist offering to "hang on" to any gold (inlays, crowns, etc.) they may remove from your teeth. According to the executive director of the S.C. Dental Association: It is not a common practice for dentists to keep such scrap, and labs are not allowed to recycle scrap gold for restoration use. I suggest such a practice is of value to the dentist, not the patient. (Particularly when they "don't remember" and no record of ownership is maintained.)

Zip line

I heard on the news about this young lady who has contracted a flesh-eating bacteria. I heard she fell from a zip line. What exactly is a zip line?

Editor's note, According to Dictionary.com, a zip line is a cable mechanism used for transportation across a river, gorge, etc.

Call our TalkBack hot line at (803) 644-2384 and leave your message, or email it to us at editorial@aikenstandard.com. Readers' names are not necessary to make a comment and will not be published in the newspaper. Comments should be brief and to the point, and the Aiken Standard reserves the right to edit for space and content. ]]> Fri, 11 May 2012 21:39:56 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/0512-talkback--3995051 http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/051112-talkback-hobby-lobby-adam-eve-goats-milk Derailed

Sounds like the Aiken County School Board has a train off the tracks. As far as spending money and raising taxes, they don’t even know what they’re going to spend it on first. It’s like passing a bill, then figuring out what’s in the bill.

Milk and honey

Does anybody know where I can get goat’s milk and honey at a reasonable price?

Hobby Lobby thanks

I went to the Hobby Lobby store here in Aiken. My experience was wonderful. I had several questions about different lamps and plaques for my home. Cindy Lou was so helpful to me. She took the time to explain several different kinds of options I had and help me make my final decision. Hobby Lobby is lucky to have Cindy Lou, her knowledge of their products and great customer service.

Adam and Eve

This is in regards to same-sex marriage. If God intended for us to have same-sex marriage, why did he make Adam and Eve?

Clean house

If the chairman of the Republican Party for Aiken County did not know what his wife needed to file to run for office, that speaks volumes about our leadership. No wonder we have the problems we have. I think we need to start cleaning house.

Acronyms

What are the acronyms for Aiken PRT and URS?

Editor’s note: PRT stands for Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism; both the City and the County have one. URS Corp. is the official name of the team of companies that lead Savannah River Remediation.

Call our TalkBack hot line at (803) 644-2384 and leave your message, or email it to us at editorial@aikenstandard.com. Readers’ names are not necessary to make a comment and will not be published in the newspaper. Comments should be brief and to the point, and the Aiken Standard reserves the right to edit for space and content. ]]> Fri, 11 May 2012 11:09:02 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/051112-talkback-hobby-lobby-adam-eve-goats-milk http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/051012-talkback--3990274 Insurance

In a car accident, where the person responsible has no insurance, your insurance pays. Therefore, you have paid for their negligence in your insurance rates. When the person next to you in the hospital emergency room has no insurance, you, and all those who pay for insurance and hospital care, carry the financial burden for that person. You are the only place that money comes from. So, if you really like paying the escalating cost of medical care, vote against mandatory medical insurance. Your money will be where your mouth (and vote) is.

Tom Campbell

My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and the News Channel 12 family of Tom Campbell. I've watched him for years; he will be truly missed. R.I.P. Tom Campbell.

Horsing around

Why not stop horsing around? Laundromats are for washing clothes, not horse races. That's ridiculous.



Barking dogs

Our neighbor to the left has two dogs, our neighbor to the right has at least three and there are another three cross the street. We think barking dogs are a nuisance. We can't enjoy our own home during the day, and we can't sleep at night.

Women drivers

I noticed a lot of women around town make turns without giving a signal. When you look at them, you see why. They are only driving with one hand. They have one on the wheel and the other with the cell phone.

Reservations

For the person seeking a restaurant that will take reservations and has small rooms for a birthday party, try Riley's Whitby Bull on Pine Log Road.

Cotton mill

Those SRS people are always complaining about the pensions and benefits. They should have worked in the cotton mill on Horse Creek Road.



Now you know

To those who are complaining about SRS retirement plans, now you know what the military retirees and military veterans have been going through for the last 30 or 40 years.

Call our TalkBack hot line at (803) 644-2384 and leave your message, or email it to us at editorial@aikenstandard.com. Readers' names are not necessary to make a comment and will not be published in the newspaper. Comments should be brief and to the point, and the Aiken Standard reserves the right to edit for space and content. ]]> Wed, 09 May 2012 20:35:19 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/051012-talkback--3990274 http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/050912-talkback--3987847 SRR

I see that people complained about SRR and retirement benefits. I don't understand how people who never faced combat get federal retirement benefits.



Save water

I am a retired member of the military and when we had water shortages at Fort Hood, Texas, they gave everyone a brick to put in the commode. Your water bills will be cheaper, and you will be saving water.



Conserve water

One easy way to conserve water is if all the restaurants would serve water only on request. We can also pray for rain.

Ruby Tuesday

I was at Ruby Tuesday in Aiken on Monday. Our server's name was Christine, and she was wonderful. Me and my husband were there for lunch, and we were watching her work. She was busy being a bartender, seating the door and taking care of tables. The manager Dave was also helping out, and that was very nice to see. We had a lovely lunch, and the service was outstanding. Kudos to Ruby Tuesday for having a great server, as well as an awesome manager.

Hoops for free indoors

There needs to be a free place to play basketball indoors on the Southside of Aiken. I'd like to play, but I don't know of anywhere to play during these hot months.

Call our TalkBack hot line at (803) 644-2384 and leave your message, or email it to us at editorial@aikenstandard.com. Readers' names are not necessary to make a comment and will not be published in the newspaper. Comments should be brief and to the point, and the Aiken Standard reserves the right to edit for space and content. ]]> Tue, 08 May 2012 23:08:07 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/050912-talkback--3987847 http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/050812-talkback--3984777 Baby names

With some of these names we see in the paper, are the mother's being ignorant and can't spell? Or did they really create these names?

Prayer

I'm glad the National Day of Prayer service was moved from St. John's United Methodist to the H. Odell Weeks Activities Center. I think it shows that it's not about denomination but our nation.

Gun range

A number of residents on Miller Run Road and Pine Hill Drive in Aiken are concerned about the shooting range being utilized. This range is used on most Saturdays, other days and a number of occasions on Sundays. We're not sure who would approve a permit for a gun range, but it is located near our residences.

Cloth theft

I don't know why someone would steal the purple cloth that we had on a cross in our backyard on Easter. Why would someone steal something off a cross like that?

Post office

The U.S. Postal Service is an American tradition. We need to save our post offices, even if stamps need to go up 50 cents a piece for first-class stamps.

Animals

How can I say thank you to the people that drive up and down Aiken County highways and smash into innocent animals on purpose and throw their trash out on the side of the road?

Call our TalkBack hot line at (803) 644-2384 and leave your message, or email it to us at editorial@aikenstandard.com. Readers' names are not necessary to make a comment and will not be published in the newspaper. Comments should be brief and to the point, and the Aiken Standard reserves the right to edit for space and content. ]]> Mon, 07 May 2012 20:47:31 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/050812-talkback--3984777 http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/050712-talkback--3982899 Cedar Creek

In case your readers didn't know where Club Drive is, it's in Cedar Creek, where you don't have to tend to your own business because there's plenty of other people to do it for you.

Good ol' boys

I just want to put this out there for all the people running for office. If you use the term the "good ol' boy," that's an automatic "X" against you. I won't vote for you because you sound like an idiot.

Editing

Aiken Standard TalkBack, you don't edit for space and content. You do other things, like censor for content.

Illegal contractors

Why are illegal contractors operating in Atlantic County without permits or licenses to collect taxes?

GOP vs. Democrats

The Republicans in the South Carolina State House are no better than national Democrats. They'll lie, steal or cheat to keep incumbents in. They all ought to be thrown out.



Barking dogs

I am so tired of reading people's complaints about dogs barking in their neighborhood. I think it keeps crime away, and I would move if there were no dogs who bark in mine.

Fool me once ...

Anyone who voted for the president in the last election should post in their front yards and car bumpers "Fool me once shame on you; fool me twice shame on me." Even diehard Democrats must have choked when the White House said campaigning officially started this weekend. Campaigning and dividing this country started the day he was elected. Hope and change! We were had, all of us. Now let's make the change that will give us hope.

Birthday parties

Is there a restaurant in Aiken where a room can be reserved for a small birthday party? Most restaurants that I know not only don't have a room but also don't take reservations.

National Day of Prayer

I'm don't know why the National Day of Prayer Service was moved from St. John's United Methodist to Odell Weeks (I personally prefer the church). However, the event seemed to be well attended, and the service was excellent. Anything that brings attention, honor and glory to our savior Jesus Christ is just fine with me. Thank you to all participants. ]]> Sun, 06 May 2012 23:26:51 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/050712-talkback--3982899 http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/050612-talkback--3981188
If you only want one side of the news, go to CNN and CNBC.

Thank you

Thank you to the kind driver who took my husband home Wednesday morning after he fell in the street. I'm sorry I didn't get your name or thank you properly, but I was in shock after seeing my husband's bruised face. Thank you very much for your kindness.

Neighbor problems

More barking dogs are in River Bluff and around Greenwich, Suffolk and Donegal. Barking lasts for hours. I have visited two owners, but nothing changed. I am a dog lover, so don't want to see them taken. They are left all day in the yard and are probably also hungry.

Ruining things

There are good folks in River Bluff, but the bad ones ruin it. The loud trucks, running stop signs at 50 mph in a residential neighborhood, the rock band on Suffolk, the dogs barking on Donegal and the high-pitched lady who you can hear laughing at the other end of the street with her country music booming while she suntans. Her dog barked for 30 minutes straight Friday night. It's hard to enjoy life and a real shame.

It's not cruelty

To the person who thinks that it's cruel to have a leashed dog attached to a golf cart, I believe you're uninformed. A dog needs exercise, and it may be that the owners aren't able to walk the dog because of a disability or something. You may be neglecting your animals if you're not walking them.

Call our TalkBack hot line at (803) 644-2384 and leave your message, or email it to us at editorial@aikenstandard.com. Readers' names are not necessary to make a comment and will not be published in the newspaper. Comments should be brief and to the point, and the Aiken Standard reserves the right to edit for space and content. ]]> Sat, 05 May 2012 23:17:09 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/050612-talkback--3981188 http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/050512-talkback--3979430
To the family making their leashed dog trot alongside their golf cart on Club Drive in 90-degree temperatures, you should be cited for cruelty to animals. Shame on you.

Barking dogs

TalkBack says, where are the barking dogs? They are barking at Eastwood Glands, Foxhound Plantation and Hatchaway Farms. There are barking dogs day and night, and they are barking at anything and everything.

State pensions

Our state legislators are messing with everyone else's retirement, but they still have their own separate retirement system that is highly subsidized by the taxpayers. The tax money going into their retirement system should be going to our state employees who toil day in and day out, keeping this state going.

Tattoos

Surely, no one thinks that people with tattoos are criminals or bad people just because of their tattoos. However, the young people who have tattoos all over their bodies show poor judgment and no class. In 10 years, the tattoo removal business will be the hot business to get into.

Nice article

I enjoyed reading the article on Aiken youth baseball. Our sons played baseball at the Citizens Park location in the late 1970s. We had a great time watching and helping the teams. Now, we have the great pleasure of watching our grandson play T-ball at Citizens Park. None of this happens without the involvement of dedicated parents who coach and support the teams. Aiken has a first-class facility and operating staff at the park.

Please return

Would the person who picked up my Maui Jim sunglasses last Saturday at Leverett's Shoe Store please return them to Leverett's. These were the last gift to me from my mom. I'm sure it was just a case of mistaken identity, but they really mean a lot to me. The have large wraparound lenses with a light tortoise frame.

Parking

Why do we have parking spaces in parking lots? I would think so you would park there and not block the two-way traffic by parking your car in the road instead of a parking place. But people do it.

Call our TalkBack hot line at (803) 644-2384 and leave your message, or email it to us at editorial@aikenstandard.com. Readers' names are not necessary to make a comment and will not be published in the newspaper. Comments should be brief and to the point, and the Aiken Standard reserves the right to edit for space and content. ]]> Fri, 04 May 2012 20:42:10 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/050512-talkback--3979430 http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/050412-talkback--3976620 Roundabout



What would it take to redesign Morgan Circle in downtown Aiken to be a true roundabout?

Owing



Why is it that the IRS swoops down on hardworking taxpayers that owe a couple thousand dollars, yet they don't do anything to the Rev. Al Sharpton and he owes millions?



Scams



I enjoyed the articles about scams. I've got another one. I got a bill from the Associated Publisher's Network to renew my subscription to The Economist by June 4, and I've got to send in $180. I called The Economist and my subscription doesn't expire until the end of this year. And $180 is also the wrong amount. So be careful.

Pups in school



What is the school's policy about bringing puppies to school? Last Friday, someone bought one. You never know who could be allergic to it.

Jobs



It was great to see the Boeing 787 picture in the Aiken Standard. More than 6,000 S.C. jobs were created in an area with high unemployment. Remember that the NLRB tried to prevent this plant so Obama could do a payback to his Union supporters. What hypocrisy. Block jobs here because we are a right to work state. Remember to vote.

Bitterness



A friend of mine has a mantra - "Bitterness is never attractive, in myself or in others. The best way I have found to deal with it is to forgive, and to determine beforehand not to take offense." I offer that to those TalkBack submitters who anger at so many things and complain whenever someone appears to have an advantage.

Election



What kind of nonsense is this when we have the most important election facing us this year and nearly every poll out there says people do not approve of Obama's policies. But he gets high poll numbers on likeability. Is it more important to save this country from Obama's failing agenda or vote for a man because he is likeable? What a nation of morons we have become.

Call our TalkBack hot line at (803) 644-2384 and leave your message, or email it to us at editorial@aikenstandard.com. Readers' names are not necessary to make a comment and will not be published in the newspaper. Comments should be brief and to the point, and the Aiken Standard reserves the right to edit for space and content. ]]> Thu, 03 May 2012 21:51:03 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/050412-talkback--3976620 http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/050312-talkback--3974105 Evenhanded

I think the Aiken Standard has an evenhanded approach to presenting different sides of political issues. If all you want is right-wing propaganda, listen to Rush Limbaugh and Fox News.



Good old boys

You have got to love the good old boy system of politics in South Carolina. Today, the failure of the Sunshine Bill is a win-win for all the politicians. Aiken good old boys can take credit for voting for it but can breathe a deep sigh of relief that it didn't pass. I would suggest that we follow Gene Pinson closely - what did he get in return for his objection? Because the bill didn't pass, we cannot request the emails - taxpayer money at work for the chosen few. What do they have to hide?

Health insurance

We make a choice to buy a car or dog or guns. Unfortunately, we do not choose to become or develop sickness or disease. Cancer, diabetes, heart disease, strokes or even accidents are not our choices. Therefore, one would be wise to insure the most important possession they have, their health.

To the person who thinks government making us buy health insurance is no different from having to buy auto insurance, you don't have to buy auto insurance if you don't own a vehicle. If you are alive, the government administration has to buy health insurance or pay a penalty. So there is a difference.

Congratulations

I would like to congratulate the WSI-SRS team for winning the 40th annual national SPOTC tournament this Thursday. You guys did a great job. This year the event was held at SRS, and teams from all over the country (as well as Canada) competed. I'm surprised and disappointed at the lack of local news coverage.

Save America

When people can write articles with little, real messages, it's time to speak up about something important - saving this great country of ours. We're losing it, bit by bit, and we know why. We need a change to save America!

Barking dogs

Where are the barking dogs? I haven't seen a complaint but yours.

Call our TalkBack hot line at (803) 644-2384 and leave your message, or email it to us at editorial@aikenstandard.com. Readers' names are not necessary to make a comment and will not be published in the newspaper. Comments should be brief and to the point, and the Aiken Standard reserves the right to edit for space and content. ]]> Wed, 02 May 2012 21:16:14 GMT Talkback http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/050312-talkback--3974105