Are Corporations People?

There is a campaign to end the personhood status corporations now enjoy.
Here's the link.

Read more articles on corporate accountability here.

Buy the movie The Corporation here (or learn about the film anyway). It's a great documentary about how corporations manipulate the government and consumers for their own ends.

Book Series Kicks Off 2009 with a Look at Strife, (Spiritual) Poverty, and the Pursuit of Happiness

Overworked, overstressed Americans are searching for peace and contentment, but most of us find it elusive. Dr. Leonid Sharashkin, editor of the new Ringing Cedars Series, says we've forgotten how to be happy—but his books can help us remember.

Here are a few insights and suggestions gleaned from The Ringing Cedars Series that you can take to heart in 2009 and beyond:

Re-evaluate your work life. You don't have to love the job you have, but you should certainly be doing something you don't hate! If you have a well-paying job that brings you nothing but misery, no salary level or list of fancy perks can justify your unhappiness. Lighten up your views regarding labor and you might be surprised to see that working fewer hours or even switching to a more appropriate career can change your entire view of the world. Try to come to terms with the idea that money and status are only an illusion and that the universe always provides for people in need. Once you free your ego from unnecessary attachment to money and power, you will be a much more peaceful person.

Plant and nurture a vegetable garden. Limitless well-being comes from working the soil and growing flowers and nourishing produce alike. Plant a variety of vegetables and fruits and spend half an hour each day tending to what you grow. A small amount of time in the garden yields bountiful results not only in a delicious, healthful harvest but in your personal tranquility and joy as well. Gardening is a natural stress reliever. Savor working the soil with your hands. The earth is vastly intelligent and believe it or not, this kind of interaction is actually a divine form of communication with the planet.

As much as possible, expose your children to nature. "In infancy they learn the so-called value of material possessions and never consciously comprehend that the natural world—trees, grass, dirt—is a more nurturing and educational playground than a nursery. The only way to counteract this is to get outside with your children as much as possible. Let babies roll around in the grass; let toddlers play with bugs and rocks; have older children join you in the garden."

Promote clean-peace. (De-clutter your home.) To get started, rid your home of any excessive and unnecessary items, he suggests. Most important of all, don't try to keep up with the Joneses. Material possessions are unable to make or keep you happy. Get rid of old clothes, sports equipment, or anything lying around you don't need. Once your home is clutter-free, you will notice a much more serene atmosphere that promotes creativity and peace.

Take a break from the technocratic world. As frequently as possible, take a sabbatical from distractions such as television, computers, telephones, and radios. They waste time, sap your energy, and promote a sedentary lifestyle—which can lead to depression.

Identify and cut back on your whims. Whether it's your twice-a-day coffeehouse lattes, drinking binges, reckless sex, or weekend shopping sprees that get you out of your slumps, remember that these distractions never really bring lasting peace. On the contrary, the financial and spiritual price tag for even low-grade self-destruction is quite high. Spend a few weeks denying yourself of your "crutches" and just wait. This will allow your spirit to begin seeking the resources it really craves to be content.

Imitate the earth's natural cycles to reduce unrest. In short, wake up with the sunrise and rest when the sun disappears.

The Ringing Cedars Series (Ringing Cedars Press, June 2008, ISBN: 978-0-9801812-0-3, $15.95) is available at bookstores nationwide and from all major online booksellers.

For more information, visit ringingcedars.com.

New Year's Eve Cocktails

If you are planning to host a New Years party this year you might be looking for some help to make it extra special or at the very least more unique. A part of most New Years Eve parties is various alcoholic drinks. Instead of just providing (or having guests bring their own) the regular beer, wine, rum, vodka and rye, why not create a theme around the drinks available.

Here are some recipes from iDrink:

North Pole Cocktail
1.0 dollop Whipped Cream
1.0 each White Eggs
1.0 oz. Gin
0.5 oz. Lemon juice
0.5 oz. Maraschino
Shake all ingredients (except whipped cream) with ice and strain into a cocktail glass. Top with whipped cream and serve.

Celebration
1.0 oz Cognac
1.0 oz Cointreau
1.0 oz Lemon juice
1.5 oz Rum
Shake over ice and pour into cocktail glass. Garnish with orange peel.


Steaming Hot Holiday Punch Recipe
3.0 cups Apple Juice
1.5 teaspoons ground Cinnamon
3 sticks Cinnamon
0.75 teaspoon ground Cloves
6.0 cups Cranberry juice
0.75 cup Maple syrup
0.75 teaspoon ground Nutmeg
3.0 cups Orange juice
2.0 teaspoons powdered Sugar
Combine all the ingredients in a very large heavy pan, except the cinnamon sticks. Bring to a boil and turn to simmer for few minutes. You can put the ingredients in a crockpot after it has boiled and keep warm over low heat.

After the party is over and you have lots of leftovers you can head on over to www.idrink.com and enter the ingredients you have to find all the other drinks you can make with them. iDRINK has over 32000 cocktail recipes to experiment with. Have a happy holiday season, don't over indulge and please drink responsibly.

Go Online for Social Security Help

By Chris Jenkins, Public Affairs Specialist, Social Security Administration

There is an old business rule that says “No job is finished until the paperwork is done.” If you are one of the millions of small business owners in this country, you undoubtedly know the truth of this statement. But did you know that Social Security can lighten your paperwork filing burden with free, fast and secure online business services?

For example, you can stop doing all your wage reports on paper and start doing them online. That includes Forms W-2 for your employees and Forms W-2 and W-3 for Uncle Sam. All you need are two things you probably already have: a computer and an Internet connection.

From our employer homepage, www.socialsecurity.gov/employer, simply visit the “Business Services Online” link, and then select the “Register” option. You register for a User ID Number only once, not every year. You can register at any time, with the best time being now, before the tax-filing season.

When you’re ready to prepare your W-2s, go back to www.socialsecurity.gov/employer and log in with the User ID Number you received at registration and the password you chose. After you log in, select the option for creating wage reports online. The first form you will be asked to fill out tells Social Security who the employer is. Just follow the simple instructions on the screen.

Another big advantage to electronic wage reporting is the ease of making corrections. If you find a mistake before you have actually submitted your report, you simply log in and make the changes, then print new W-2s for the employees involved. And even if you need to make corrections after you have submitted your wage reports to Social Security you can file the correction forms (W-2c and W-3c) online, too.

So save yourself some time and effort. And save a few trees in the process. Turn your entire wage reporting paperwork into just a few key strokes.

If you are still skeptical, just ask some fellow small business owners who have already made the switch to the online wage-reporting world. They will undoubtedly tell you that they would never go back to paper again.

Visit Social Security’s Business Services Online at www.socialsecurity.gov/employer.

Trends for 2009

Among our TOP TRENDS 2009, The Trends Research Institute forecast an imminent onslaught of "Hassle Taxes" to be levied by governments at every level from local to federal.

While the unfair and burdensome taxes will fail to balance budgets, they will succeed in infuriating the general public – to such an extent that tax revolts will break out around the country, along with incendiary displays of both civil and uncivil disobedience.

Blind to the repercussions, governments do not recognize that revolution, not prosperity, is just around the corner.

That’s not all. Beyond tax revolts and civil disobedience, 2009 will be a tumultuous year. Trends foreboding and trends promising:

• The Collapse of ‘09: Markets will tumble and major businesses will fail.
• The Greatest Depression: Worse than the 1930’s Depression. Why?
• Revolution: What will be the spark that ignites it? Who will fire the shot heard around the world?
• Obamarama: High hopes, broken promises: Some victories, major failures.
• Economic Slim-Fast: Like it or not, Americans will go on a spending diet and food diet.
• Bush Gardens: Lawns out, Edible Landscaping in. Why Bush Gardens?
• Whole Health Healing: 2009 marks a year of "attitude change" for the on-trend health aware.
• Little People Squeeze: Politicians will put the financial squeeze on the already squeezed.
• Regenerative Medicine: The time is ripe for stem cells to come out of the laboratory and into the clinic.
• That’s Entertainment. Lifting spirits – and drinking them – will be big business and major pastimes during the Greatest Depression.
• College Crash: Following the equity market meltdown, the real estate bust and the retail unraveling, comes the college crash.

What are your predictions for 2009?

Can You Set This Table?

Do you know the proper way to set a table? Write down what you think each utensil/plate is then click here for complete details.

Holiday Party Liabilities

As millions of Americans host and attend holiday parties across the street or across the country, many are unaware of the risks they may be taking or of their own responsibilities to ensure their guests don't hit the road drunk, according to a new national survey on homeowner's insurance issues by Trusted Choice® and the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I").

For the survey, homeowners were asked if they believed they were legally liable if a guest caused an alcohol-related traffic accident after leaving a holiday party at the respondent's home. Additionally, they were questioned about the liability responsibility of a guest destroying a house with a careless act such as leaving a candle unattended or smoking indoors. Respondents were also asked if they thought they would be legally liable if a guest was injured on the sidewalk in front of their property or suffered food-poisoning from catered food while attending a holiday party at their home. Alarming percentages of homeowners either thought they could not be held liable in these situations or admitted they didn't know.

Do Your Homework: When hosting a holiday party, individuals should look to the liability portion of their homeowners or renters insurance policy to protect them if they are sued and found liable for an accident involving a guest who drank at their home. Consumers should regularly review their liability coverage limits to ensure they are adequately covered should an accident occur.

Consider an Umbrella Policy: While holiday partygoers and hosts alike should act responsibly and know their limits, consumers need to acknowledge that most risks cannot be entirely eliminated. But planning ahead and learning about what's involved in hosting a reception is the best defense. Purchasing a personal "umbrella" liability policy - providing $1 million or more in additional coverage over the limit of a standard homeowners or renters policy - may be a prudent move for the frequent party host.

Consider the following tips to prevent holiday party accidents and protect yourself:
* Limit your guest list to those you know.
* Host your party at a restaurant or bar that has a liquor license, rather in a home or office.
* Provide filling food for guests and alternative non-alcoholic beverages.
* Schedule entertainment or activities that do not involve alcohol. If the party centers around drinking, guests will likely drink more.
* Arrange transportation or overnight accommodations for those who cannot or should not drive home.
* Stop serving alcohol at least one hour before the party is scheduled to end.
* Do not serve guests who are visibly intoxicated.
* Consider hiring an off-duty police officer to discretely monitor guests' sobriety or handle any alcohol-related problems as guests leave.
* Stay alert, always remembering your responsibilities as a host.
* Review your insurance policy with your Trusted Choice® agent before the event to ensure that you have the proper liability coverage.

From Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America, Inc.

NewsandPress.com Back Online

Our Web site is back online here.

Newsandpress.com Offline

Due to technical difficulties, www.newsandpress.com is offline.
Any emails to our staff sent since Friday 5 p.m. have not been received. If there is any urgent information, please call (843) 393-3811 or fax information to (843) 393-6811.

We will post when the email server and Web site are back up.

With important issues facing S.C., civil debate needed

By Richard Eckstrom, Comptroller General

There’s a battle of sorts going on in Columbia between those trying to reign in spending, impose greater accountability, and pull back the curtains of government so that decisions are made in full public view… and those who don’t think these changes are needed.

Those who know me generally put me in the former category -- a fiscal conservative committed to the cause of better government, increased transparency, and more careful spending. But while remaining true to my conservative principles, I consciously try to show respect for those whose views and opinions are different from mine.

Unfortunately, in this environment what should be civil debate on important issues all too often descends into “attack politics” -- vilifying those with opposing views in order to win. Name-calling has become accepted practice for many.

One example on the national stage is the automobile bailout, where some in Congress are sniping and finger-pointing just because many others -- due to their deep-seated concerns about writing blank checks to Detroit -- opposed plans to bail out the Big 3 automakers. When everyone in Washington should be devoting their energy to moving the country past the current economic crisis, leaders of one party instead have been churning press releases blasting the other party, and a prominent leader in the majority party attempted to paint all those who voted against the bail out plan as “un-American.” Sadly, some will take any advantage -- every advantage -- to advance a political agenda.

There’s no shortage of such behavior here in the Palmetto State, where for several years Governor Sanford and those aligned with him have tried to change the business-as-usual culture in Columbia. In the interest of openness, let me state that I wholeheartedly support the vast majority of Gov. Sanford’s proposed reforms. Like him, I strongly believe that changing the way we do things in Columbia is a key to truly moving our state forward. But Gov. Sanford and other reformers represent changes that many in Columbia neither seek nor wish to accept, and the debate hasn’t always been constructive.

The legislature will convene in January with South Carolina facing one of the biggest challenges of a generation – the current economic crisis. With state leaders grappling with new and more difficult problems, we’d do well to lay aside the “heroes-versus-villains” mentality, the attitude that it’s OK to tear down another for holding an opposing political philosophy.

At the local level, the men and women who engage in civic debate -- whether over a municipal tax increase, a zoning matter, or a school bond issue -- should be respected, even when they express views counter to our own. At a time when most folks go about their daily lives and simply read about developments in the newspaper, we should applaud any who take the time to become involved in the community to guide its future.

In South Carolina, an honest conversation about where we’re headed as a state, and how we get there, is a good thing. We should be able to have such a conversation without ever resorting to attacks. Those of us in positions of public trust have a particular obligation to set the right example by conducting our debates in a manner befitting those we serve. Let’s commit to finding success on high roads, not low ones, and let’s win hearts and minds with the power of our ideas, not the volume of our voices.

Is the Recession a Holiday Gift?

"We assume the recession is a bad thing, but it may actually be a blessing," says Sharashkin, editor of The Ringing Cedars Series (Ringing Cedars Press, June 2008, ISBN: 978-0-9801812-0-3, $15.95). "Why? Because it forces us to re-evaluate the way we live. As a culture, Americans need to slow down, cut our consumption, rediscover our spiritual selves. Most people spend too much money mindlessly, and worse than that, we spend our precious time mindlessly. The recession can inspire us to get mindful about both."

Sharashkin offers the following hints for unearthing the recession's hidden gifts:
Re-evaluate your work life. Are you working too much? Does what you do make you unhappy?
Make a conscious decision to consume less.
Quit spending so much money on the people you care about. Instead, spend time with them.
Take a TV sabbatical. Watching TV saps your time and energy. It overstimulates your senses, making relaxation more difficult—especially close to bedtime. And it's particularly harmful to children, whose minds and value systems are highly impressionable.
Create and nurture a vegetable garden. The Ringing Cedars Series frequently references Russian Dachniks—gardeners who live on small plots of land and spend much of their free time cultivating abundant fresh food gardens that produce the majority of the fruits and vegetables that make up their diets.

"Suffering has a purpose: It signals the need for change," he says. "And it's often the precursor to immense growth. The pain America is feeling from the recession is telling us we must change our unsustainable ways.
"You may think, well, I can't change America, but you can because we're all connected," adds Sharashkin. "You can change your own life. Your family can change theirs. Your neighbor, inspired by how much happier you seem, can change his. Every life touches other lives, which in turn, touch still other lives. And if the recession can facilitate this kind of change, it's a great blessing indeed."

Lt. Gov. For Sale

A Report from The Palmetto Scoop:

The Christmas season is truly a time for charity. And judging by a website that has recently popped-up, Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer may be in need of some serious financial assistance.

In an incredibly odd move, Bauer has launched AndreChristmas.com, which quietly went online sometime in the last 72 hours offering “unique gifts for your Southern gent.”

But, rather than “unique gifts,” it appears to be a bunch of overpriced crap Bauer doesn’t want anymore — such as paintings that range from $975 to $1950 — and “exclusive” items like a $1500 deer/hog hunt for two. Oh, boy.

It’s basically Google meets your grandmother’s garage sale meets South of the Border.

You can see the site here.
The items are "contributions to the Andre Bauer campaign" and "Individual contributions must not exceed $3500 per election cycle."

January Planning Commission Date Change

Darlington County Planning will meet 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Jan. 22.

This change will be updated on the Newsandpress.com Calendar this week.

From SC Fishing Report

Favorite gifts for fisherman here.

Ovis Hill Farm Update

From Ovis Hill Farm:

For perhaps 25 years of Nativity Programs I have taken special care when loading and unloading the lambs, mothers and calves, but this year there was an escape. In retrospect, it was predictable. The Bethea Baptist Home Nativity Program (“Come to Bethlehem”) was set on a green within a roadway loop in front of the main building on a large campus. The village with its 200 or so “actors” was arranged around the green. We loaded the mothers, new lambs, and small calves from their corral beside the manger. We backed the trailer up to the larger flock of sheep (shepherds in the field) on the other side of the green and opened the fence to load. When Diz the border collie moved the flock toward the corner gate a nervous ewe balked at the sight of an “actor shepherd” too near the trailer and bolted behind Diz. When he moved back to fetch her, she jumped the fence. We missed retrieving her near the truck and she disappeared around the buildings. Diz and I walked around the complex and returned to the truck without sighting her. At the truck we all exchanged cell phone numbers and split up to look for the lost sheep. Within a few minutes one of Pastors called with news that a nurse at the covered entrance for ambulances, wheel chairs, etc. on the far side of the buildings reported the sheep was in the building. We gathered at the entrance. To a sheep it looked like a well lit (like us they do not like dark spooky places) welcoming barn with bushes on each side for snacks. When she walked in the automatic doors opened and she went in, as we all might. She seemed relieved to see me and I caught her with little difficulty. Actually we were all relieved and there was even mention of possible sermon material.

Economic Problems Hinged on 2005 Reform

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York has published a study that states the housing mess can be directly linked to the passage of the 2005 Bankruptcy Abuse Reform, which made it harder for individuals to escape their creditors.

We argue that the 2005 bankruptcy abuse reform (BAR) contributed to the surge in subprime foreclosures that followed its passage. Before BAR, distressed mortgagors could free up income by filing bankruptcy and having their unsecured debts discharged. BAR blocks that maneuver for better-off filers by way of a means test. We identify the effects of BAR using state home equity bankruptcy exemptions; filers in low-exemption states were not very protected before BAR, so they would be less affected by the reform. Difference-in-difference regressions confirm four predictions implied by that identification strategy. Our findings add to research trying to explain the surge in subprime foreclosures and to a broader literature on household bankruptcy demand and credit supply.

Download the full paper here. It explains in detail how foreclosures increased as a result of that legislation.

ETV to Broadcast "Finding Money For College"

While rescue packages and financial market instability continue to color the fiscal landscape, ETV and the South Carolina Department of Education offer hopeful options during the annual broadcast of Finding Money for College.

This timely program provides students and parents with valuable information on ways to pay for a college education. The show airs LIVE on Sunday, Jan. 25 at 5 p.m. on all ETV channels.

The two-hour telecast features financial aid professionals from public and private colleges and universities in South Carolina. In addition, guidance counselors will offer advice and representatives from the South Carolina Higher Education Tuition Grants, South Carolina Student Loan Corporation and South Carolina Commission on Higher Education answer questions on accessing scholarships, grants and loans.

Viewers are invited to call in with questions during the live broadcast via a toll-free number that will be announced on air.

Poster Design Contest Extended

ATTENTION ARTISTS:
Based on a large number of requests from artists interested in submitting work for the Charleston Harbor Fest Poster Contest we have extended the deadline for entries to Tuesday, January 6, 2009. Application and mounted artwork must be received by 5:00 p.m. on January 6 to be considered. Please see below for more details. Thanks to all of the great entries we have received to date. If you have already submitted an entry and would like to submit an additional entry for consideration by January 6, you are invited to do so.

Charleston Harbor Fest is proud to announce the second annual official poster competition. Artists who are 18 years or older may submit original works for the design of the 2009 Charleston Harbor Fest poster. These designs will be judged by a panel representing both the maritime and art communities and should reflect Charleston's rich maritime history while also featuring attributes that reflect Charleston's modern harbor and highlights of the annual event. Artists are encouraged to capture the look and feel of Charleston Harbor Fest, with its blend of international tall ships from around the globe, classic wooden boats, education village, children's activities and celebration of all things related to the sea. The poster must incorporate the text The Tall Ships are Coming!® and the event title, Charleston Harbor Fest 2009.

Additional information and application forms may be downloaded from www.charlestonharborfest.org.

A Different Take on the Upside of the Downturn

Say Hello to the Thrift Zeitgeist

By Ellen Goodman

It read like a manifesto for the new zeitgeist, a signpost for an America decking the halls with boughs of thrift and singing carols to the values of frugality:

“Perhaps it will be different now. Perhaps now is an opportunity to reassess what really matters. After all, if everything you ever bought her disappeared overnight, what would she truly miss?”

How charming. What a tribute to the collapse of consumerism, the one upside to the economic downside. The only problem was that this little gem of thoughtfulness was an ad for diamonds.

...

Now, competitive consumption has been replaced by contagious anxiety. Buying hit the wall with the housing collapse, the stock market plunge, the credit card crunch and the surge in unemployment figures. “Thrift is the new normal.” “Sixty percent off is the new black.” Cutting back is in. Retail therapy is out.

Another Having Less Will Make Us Happier Article

From Alternet.org

Life After the Economic Collapse: How Having Less Will Make Us Happier
Having big cars, fancy TVs and trendy clothes never made us happy. It only drove us into debt -- and increased our dependence on long work hours.

“The pursuit of happiness.” It’s so American that it’s in our Declaration of Independence, where it’s listed alongside life and liberty as an inalienable right.

But how successful have we been in that pursuit? And now that the global finance system is imploding, how likely is it that we’ll be happy in the coming months and years?

America's Largest Third Party Turns 37

The Libertarian Party, America's third-largest political party, is celebrating its 37th birthday.

"Since we began in 1971, we've elected hundreds of Libertarians to public office across the country," says Libertarian Party National Chairman William Redpath. "These Libertarians make a significant impact on their community, and serve as a testament to the values of the Libertarian Party. As more and more Americans look for an alternative to Republicans and Democrats, our numbers continue to grow. Until Republicans and Democrats significantly reduce the size and power of government, the Libertarian Party will be there fighting for smaller government, lower taxes and more individual freedom."

The party was founded Dec. 11, 1971 in Colorado Springs, CO as an alternative to Republicans and Democrats. The Libertarian Party seeks to restore the vision of government held by our Founding Fathers, and divest government of the powers not granted to it by the Constitution.

The platform of the Libertarian Party can be found here.

The Upside of Downsizing

Three ways downsizing has had a positive impact on our lives – and could on yours, as well:

1) When you stop supporting a lifestyle, your life becomes enriched in ways you never imagined. A smaller mortgage and no debt allows more time and energy to pursue the best quality of life possible. Studies have shown that you really can’t buy happiness, i.e. people with a lot of material wealth are not generally happier than the rest of us. So, happiness is not about the things we possess, it’s about the experiences we have, and the people we make connections to. Imagine if you pared down your expenses to the extent that you weren’t stressed about needing to make a certain amount of money. What wonderful experiences and activities could you “spend” that freed-up energy on?

2) When your priorities shift, you’ll meet like-minded people who want to relate to you based on who you are rather than the things you have. We’ve all heard the question workaholics are supposed to ask themselves: On your deathbed, do you really think you’ll regret not spending enough time in the office? The question is a valid one for us all. The things in our lives don’t give back: People and experiences do. What better proof than a recent study which found that happiness is contagious. In addition, as you make connections to others who feel no need to “keep up with the Joneses,” you’ll learn from their actions and priorities, thus reinforcing your new-found freedom.

3) When you get off the never-ending treadmill of working to support possessions, you’ll notice a certain spark back in your life you may not even have realized was missing. Remember when you were in school or just starting out in your job? Life was stimulating – full of challenges, invigorating. Then, as we started accumulating the spoils of working for a living - all the stuff we claimed as rightfully ours - we settled into a routine. Our lives became rote. It’s crucial to keep stretching ourselves by learning new things and having new experiences. Doing so enriches out lives in ways that material possessions never can.

Many people are facing serious financial trouble these days. While there are resources to help consolidate loans, come up with a budget, etc., there is little out there that treats the need to do these things as a path to greater happiness. Rather than looking at downsizing as a sacrifice, try thinking about the freedom and lack of stress you’ll enjoy once your finances are in order. Don’t look at is as giving up the things that you always thought were important, but rather as discovering those things that really are.

By Doreen Orion, a psychiatrist who spent 24/7 in 340 square feet for a year with her psychiatrist husband when they traveled around the U.S. in a converted bus. She is the author of Queen of the Road: The True Tale of 47 States, 22,000 Miles, 200 Shoes, 2 Cats, 1 Poodle, a Husband, and a Bus With a Will of Its Own (Broadway Books). For more, visit www.QueenOfTheRoadTheBook.com.

Saving Money on Insurance

Some tips from Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America, Inc.

Credit life insurance: Avoid credit life insurance (for new furniture or credit card debt, for example) under most circumstances. These policies, offered by credit card companies and other lenders, extend for the term of the loan and decrease in value over its life. They are designed to protect a third party if for some reason the consumer dies before the loan is paid off. However, they provide no protection to beneficiaries—only to the company that offered the credit or loan.

Deductibles are too low: Owners of expensive homes need to consider whether a low deductible makes sense. If someone steals the TV, it isn’t going to break the bank. Those same consumers need lots of insurance for a total catastrophe, though, or if they get sued. Therefore, they may want to take a $1,000 deductible and use the savings, which can be 10 to 20%, and buy a reasonably priced "umbrella liability" policy to give them $1 million or $2 million of coverage in case they’re sued.

Specific computer insurance policies: Though this coverage may seem like a good idea since so many people now have computers at home, a standard homeowners policy will cover most basic personal computer equipment. Here’s how it works: If you have a home with the structure insured for $100,000, you typically have $50,000 of personal property coverage, including computer equipment not used for business. If used for business, the home insurance policy typically provides $1,500 or $2,500 of coverage for computers. Only people with home-based businesses, laptops used for business outside the home or elaborate high-tech equipment need to consider extra coverage but it’s usually cheaper to buy an endorsement to the home or home-business policy rather than a separate computer policy. (The same concept holds true for cancer insurance or trip-specific life insurance, and other specific policies when in fact broader coverage that is cheaper in the long run might be needed.)

Coal-fired Power Plant in Florence

Today the Small Business Chamber of Commerce asked Governor Sanford to review the state-owned utility's plan to build a coal-fired power plant in Florence County.

South Carolina Chamber Response: The following response may be attributed to Otis B. Rawl Jr., President and CEO of the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce.

It is incredulous that the Small Business Chamber, an entity that claims to represent small businesses, would oppose a project that will provide affordable and reliable electricity for South Carolina. Over the past three years, the Small Business Chamber has often opposed initiatives supported by the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce, like tort reform and workers’ compensation reform that are already proving to improve the state’s business climate.

I understand the need to be environmentally sensitive when making this decision. However, the Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) has had nearly 900 days to review the permit. There’s been ample study and review. Now is the time to issue the permit and move forward.

Affordable and reliable energy are each key to the survival of South Carolina’s businesses. When a small business owner walks into his business every morning, the lights must come on, and the rates must remain affordable. The Pee Dee Energy Campus will be the cleanest and most efficient coal-burning facility in the state of South Carolina and one of the cleanest in the entire nation. As our state grows rapidly, we must be proactive in ensuring that we have adequate capacity.

Would you support a coal-fired power plant in Darlington County? Do you support the one being planned for Florence County?

Don't forget Friday's Book-Signing

On Friday, December 12th we will host an open house from 6pm until 8pm with photographer and author, Dr. Susan Reynolds. Dr. Reynolds will be in the gallery to sign copies of her latest book, Prestwood Lake & Black Creek - A Pictorial Essay. We will also have Dr. Reynold's notecards and photographs. Refreshments will be served.

For More Information, call the gallery at: 332-1410

Dec. 12 — The Full Cold Moon

Sky watchers will be dazzled by an exceptionally high, bright, and large Moon. In fact, this Moon is 14 percent bigger and 30 percent brighter than other full Moons this year. Why? The Moon is both in its full phase and at a point in its orbit that is nearest Earth, called its perigee. When these events occur together, the Moon is closer to Earth than usual. The effect? The Full Cold Moon will appear especially large near the horizon as the Sun sets.

The Moon is also high at this time of year; when it's overhead (near midnight), it will light up the landscape. Take a magical stroll and see your world at night. You won't need a flashlight!

Auto Industry Plan Revealed

The "Auto Industry Financing and Restructuring Act"
It's a 37-page PDF document.

Bailout News Updates

Panel Overseeing Bailout Criticizes Treasury Department - From Washington Post
"We've been lied to. We've been bamboozled. What we have here is one big mess," said Rep. Davis Scott (D-Ga.), who like several others on the House Financial Services Committee focused on the fact that the hundreds of billions of dollars used to shore up the capital position of banks is not being felt in the form of easier credit for homeowners and businesses.

Democrats and White House Close In on Auto Deal - From NYT
The rescue plan would extend $15 billion in emergency loans to General Motors and Chrysler, the two most imperiled automakers, and would subject them to far-reaching government oversight at the direction of a so-called car czar to be named by Mr. Bush.
Ford is not seeking short-term loans because it is not as bad off as the other two big automakers.

UAW seeking GM board seat -union official - From Reuters
The United Auto Workers union is seeking a stake in General Motors Corp and a board seat as it offers concessions intended to allow the automaker to slash costs and clinch federal aid, a union official said.

$73 an Hour: Adding It Up - From NYT
“We’ve heard this garbage about 73 bucks an hour,” Senator Bob Casey, a Pennsylvania Democrat, said last week. “It’s a total lie. I think some people have perpetrated that deliberately, in a calculated way, to mislead the American people about what we’re doing here.”
So what is the reality behind the number? Detroit’s defenders are right that the number is basically wrong. Big Three workers aren’t making anything close to $73 an hour (which would translate to about $150,000 a year).

2008 Proposed State Budget Cuts

Gov. Sanford's propsed budget cuts appear here online. You can leave comments on that page as well.

South Carolina Chamber Response
The following response may be attributed to Otis B. Rawl Jr., President and CEO of the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce.

First, the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce commends Governor Sanford for acknowledging the need to increase South Carolina’s lowest in the nation cigarette tax. But, the South Carolina Chamber believes that any increase in the cigarette tax must be used for healthcare-related purposes only. The Chamber supports increasing the state’s cigarette tax to the Southeastern average to provide premium assistance to individuals and small business tax credits.

The Chamber also applauds Governor Sanford for trying to create a tax reform plan to spur investment and create jobs, but we believe that in order to truly achieve this, comprehensive tax reform must be achieved. Like the Governor has called for, it is imperative that the state examines inequities in the current property tax structure that adversely impact businesses. Examining corporate income tax should be part of this reform.

South Carolina, like the rest of the nation, is experiencing a difficult time in today’s economy, but we are placed at an even larger competitive disadvantage because of past piecemeal approaches to tax reform. These piecemeal approaches have created shortfalls in South Carolina’s budget and ultimately harm the state’s economy, increase job losses and negatively impact everyone’s pocketbook.

Pieces of Governor Sanford’s proposal should be considered as part of an overall comprehensive tax reform plan. The business community thanks Governor Sanford for his continued dedication and work on behalf of all South Carolinians.

Barr Condemns Government Plans for Domestic Troop Deployment

Former Georgia Congressman Bob Barr, the Libertarian Party's 2008 presidential nominee, says government plans to deploy 20,000 uniformed soldiers inside the United States "ignores all the tragic lessons we have learned from using the U.S. military in domestic crises."

"The government's plan to deploy initially 20,000 uniformed military personnel inside the United States goes against everything we have learned about using soldiers as police officers. Not only do these plans appear to be a violation of the Posse Comitatus Act—which forbids the use of the military in law enforcement on non-federal property—but it also opens up the American public to dangerous Constitutional violations."

Barr says his concerns are greatly heightened by the conclusion reached by the current Bush Administration in a classified 2001 Department of Justice memo. The memo stated that the Fourth Amendment, which protects citizens against unreasonable searches and seizures, does not apply to the U.S. military when it engages in “domestic” operations.

"When the military operates in the United States, as the federal government now intends it to do, it does so without respect or deference to the Constitution," says Barr. "The federal government plans to render every American citizen defenseless against government abuse during any crisis situation—be it a flood, hurricane, or other natural disaster—where U.S. military personnel will be used to supplement local law enforcement."

"I fought against this type of gross expansion of government authority while I was in Congress," says Barr. "I called for a full investigation of the Waco Siege when it became clear that government used excessive force in their raid, which cost the lives of many innocent Americans. The 'culture of militarism' in the federal government turned Waco into an American tragedy. Should this trend of militarism be allowed to continue, it will only be a matter of time before we have another avoidable tragedy on our hands."

Libertarian Party National Chairman William Redpath released a similar statement on Tuesday of this week, saying the government's plans represented "evidence of a disturbing trend of militarism in today's society."

No I in NASCAR Team

DECEMBER 5 – Even in New York City, it is still sometimes possible to be overwhelmed. Cipriani is that kind of place.

Located just off 42nd street, the bank-turned-restaurant has the grandeur of a church. The Italian Renaissance style building comes complete with marble columns, a 65-foot ceiling, inlaid floors and massive chandeliers.

It can make a person feel very small. But NASCAR does love a challenge, and has a knack for rising to the occasion. Show them something big, and they’ll find a way to make it bigger.

On this particular day, the occasion in question was the annual NASCAR NMPA Myers Brothers Media Luncheon. Banners bearing the names of the top 12 drivers of 2008 – the guys who made the Chase for the Sprint Cup – covered those soaring columns floor to ceiling. Huge video screens played memorable moments from the racing season.

The room – and in case I haven’t made myself clear, it is absolutely huge – was packed with representatives from race tracks, NASCAR and its sponsor organizations, media members, and other invited guests. If someone wanted a “Who’s Who in NASCAR” photo opportunity, this was it.

Just to give you some idea of what I mean, seated at one table were Jim Hunter, vice president of corporate communications for NASCAR; Bob Bahre, former owner of New Hampshire Motor Speedway and his family; Humpy Wheeler, former president and generally manager of Lowe’s Motor Speedway; Gene Monahan, head athletic trainer for the New York Yankees; and two-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Tony Stewart.

And me, but I’m pretty sure that was just some mix-up in the seating assignments. I chose not to point the error out to anyone, for obvious reasons.

Next to the awards banquet itself on Friday night, the Myers Brothers luncheon is the biggest event of Champions Week. It’s like the special ceremony held the week before the Academy Awards telecast, where they give out the Oscars for things like technical achievement.

The difference is that for the technical Oscars, you know Russell Crowe is not going to be there to pay his respects to the guy receiving the award for best achievement in lighting, or best zombie makeup.

NASCAR, on the other hand, knows that without even the smallest piece of the engine, that machine just won’t roll. So everyone from 2008 Sprint Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson to NASCAR president Mike Helton to Brian France, chairman and CEO of NASCAR, was present to celebrate the achievements of those being honored.

One of my favorite moments each year at the Myers Brothers luncheon comes when the top 12 drivers are introduced and come out onto the stage one by one, until at the end they’re all standing there in a line for a group photo.

Obviously this takes some time, since there’s a nice round of applause for each guy. The 11th and 12th place finishers – this year, Matt Kenseth and Dale Earnhardt, Jr. – wind up having to stand out there for a pretty good while. Every year, the guys start talking to one another, and each driver that comes out joins in the conversation. Inevitably, something strikes them as funny.

By the time the champion comes out, everyone’s sort of standing there, a lot of them with their hands in their pockets, grinning and carrying on like school kids. They look like the Little Rascals. You can’t help but smile. It’s great reminder of how much they enjoy what they do out there on the race track every week. Because they have fun, we have fun. I love that.

Bob Bahre was the recipient of the Buddy Shuman Award, which honors individuals who have made significant contributions to racing. Mr. Bahre was one of the few award winners in the building who was honestly surprised by the recognition, which he credited not to himself, but to NASCAR supporters. “We might have built the thing, but it’s been the fans and drivers who have made it what it is,” he said.

Dale Earnhardt, Jr. gave some more love to the fans when he picked up his sixth consecutive Chex Cereals Most Popular Driver Award. No big surprise there. Junior received 1.2 million votes this year. I wonder how his new, full beard would fare if we put that up to a fan vote?

Team owner Richard Childress was the recipient of the NASCAR Home Depot Humanitarian Award, for his work in helping to establish a center for pediatric trauma at Wake Forest University.

The coolest looking trophy was the metallic glove presented to the No. 48 team for winning the Mechanix Wear Most Valuable Pit Award. Those guys might want to consider keeping that thing under heavy security; I couldn’t help but think about Michael Jackson and that famous glove from his career heyday. The 48 team stole that thunder this year. Especially during the Chase, they gave a whole new meaning to the term “Thriller”.

The day’s most emotional moment came when Jim Hunter accepted the NMPA Myers Brothers Award on behalf of the late – and truly great – photographer Thomas Taylor Warren. “T. Taylor,” as he was called, was a much-loved motorsports photographer who succumbed to Lou Gehrig’s disease in October of this year, at the age of 83. His loss has been keenly felt by the entire NASCAR community.

A lighter moment came when Chad Knaus, winner of the Champion Crew Chief Award, told a great story about a football coach team owner Rick Hendrick brought to the shop to serve as a motivational speaker. When asked if the No. 48 team would win the championship in 2008, Knaus replied, “We’re going to do our best”.

The coach’s rejoinder was that sometimes one’s best isn’t good enough. “I told Mr. Hendrick that coach had better be glad the 48 team doesn’t play football,” Knaus said.

Most of the day’s awards went to big NASCAR names. Others were given to folks you might not immediately recognize. Each NASCAR official, for example, all those men and women who work in the pits during races to ensure that all goes well, were listed by name.

In a week basically set aside to honor one exceptional driver, the NASCAR NMPA Myers Brothers luncheon served as a nice reminder of the battery in the bunny, that one component that truly drives this great sport.

Teamwork.

– Cathy Elliott, LIVE from New York

Foley's Serves Up Spirits, and NASCAR Spirit

DECEMBER 4 – When NASCAR visits New York City each year for the annual awards banquet and other related activities, a day is set aside for the Sprint Cup Series champion to have lunch with media members from the Northeast.

This year, it also served as a reminder that there is at least one significant sports story happening in New York this week, other than Plaxico Burress.

Generally held at upscale restaurants like the 21 Club, for 2008 NASCAR decided to loosen things up a bit, and moved the event to a place called Foley’s Pub and Restaurant.

I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to find Foley’s; frankly, I still have trouble finding my way through the hotel. But the smallish building, located almost right across from the Empire State Building on 33rd Street, was so noticeable it was impossible for even navigationally-challenged me to miss. Its color makes it stand out. It isn’t green; it is painted bright, fire engine red.

No banners advertising the impending arrival of Jimmie Johnson, his crew chief Chad Knaus, his team owner Rick Hendrick, and Raybestos Rookie of the Year Regan Smith flew over Foley’s. No crush of paparazzi waited in the street.

Only a small chalkboard with the words “Welcome NASCAR” and someone’s drawing of a Keystone Cops-looking car with a small number “48” on the side propped up on the sidewalk acknowledged the event at all. I opened the door and went inside.

In case you’ve never been in an Irish pub before, they’re usually kind of small, rather dark and not much given to big, rowdy crushes of people. The clientele tends to know one another, and the atmosphere is almost an extension of your own home and family.

But not today.

Foley’s was the most crowded Irish pub, or any other type of pub for that matter, I have ever seen. It wasn’t just crammed full of people, but of stuff. The place is a Mecca of sports memorabilia. Walls are lined top to bottom with baseballs signed by celebrities ranging from Joe DiMaggio to Derek Jeter to 2003 Cup Series champion Matt Kenseth. There are bats and hats, magazine covers and stadium seats. It’s like a museum. A really cool museum with free beer nuts.

In keeping with the fact that Academy Award-winning actor and director Kevin Costner is the special guest at this year’s banquet, the sports maniac in me was compelled to make a little joke to myself: Is this Heaven? No, it’s Foley’s.

There were plenty of media folks at the luncheon, and the public relations team from NASCAR, and, unusual for an event like this one, fans. Lots of fans. Some lucky members of NASCAR’s Members Club were allowed to attend; one group from Staten Island was particularly happy to be there, if you know what I’m saying.

Jimmie Johnson entered the room to a huge round of applause and made some nice remarks before lunch was served. The most popular comment he made was completely impromptu. As soon as he walked through the door, he announced that he had bought a round of drinks for the house.

I’m not sure what Johnson’s background and cultural heritage is, but on this day he offered up the famed luck of the Irish to everyone in attendance.

We all know NASCAR knows how to give fans a great experience. On this day, that same experience was extended to those who cover the sport rather than just watch it. Yes, it’s true – a good time was had by all.

I went back to Foley’s later in the afternoon after everyone was gone. I wanted another look at all that cool stuff.

I enjoyed checking out the 1,200 signed baseballs, the 130 jerseys hanging from the rafters, the 40 used game bats. I admired the montages filled with tickets and programs and score sheets and such. As always, the bobbleheads made me smile, and there are about 300 of them at Foley’s. There seemed not to be a single inch of space for one more thing to be displayed.

And then, I noticed a new piece of memorabilia. Hanging in the back, stretching floor to ceiling, is a banner that simply reads, “Jimmie Johnson, Reigning Champion.”

It didn’t have a thing to do with baseball or hockey, but at Foley’s, a place that appreciates sports excellence, NASCAR looked right at home.

– Cathy Elliott, LIVE from New York

Chester Community Charter School Provides Students 1,400 New Laptops

As part of a continuing mission to offer the finest education possible, Vahan and Danielle Gureghian of Chester Community Charter School (CCCS) will be providing students in grades three through eight the educational advantage of their very own laptop.

The Gureghians’ purchase of 1,400 laptops represents the largest contribution of Nicholas Negroponte’s XO Laptops within the U.S. The XO laptops are the cornerstone of Negroponte’s worldwide One Laptop Per Child program, a nonprofit organization that is likewise committed to children’s education. CCCS students will use their new laptops in school.

“Our students are being given the opportunity to have access to technological tools that are not only helpful but necessary in today’s educational environment,” said CCCS CEO Steve Lee. “The learning potential of our students is limitless and will continue to break new ground, especially with the assistance of these new laptops.

“CCCS is one of the nation’s largest and most successful charter schools, committed to providing superior educational opportunities for our students,” Lee continued. “This initiative, and many others like it that CCCS has implemented over the years, proves the value of finding and supporting alternatives to traditional public school education.”

By December 10, 2008, 325 XO laptops will be available for CCCS middle school students, with the remaining arriving within the following weeks.

Talk is Not Cheap

DECEMBER 3 – When you watch awards shows like the Oscars, the Grammys or the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series banquet, do you ever wonder how “prepared” those prepared speeches really are?

The answer is both a lot, and a little.

Speech practice for the drivers, sponsors, celebrities and NASCAR industry spokespeople begins in the middle of Champions Week, but the real work begins long before that.

The speech rehearsal room is one of the suites at the Waldorf=Astoria hotel, but you’d never recognize it as such. Headed in that direction, the only reminder that you’re in the one of the most famous hotels in one of the most glamorous cities in the world comes when you spot movie star Leonardo DiCaprio strolling through the corridor, on his way to a press conference promoting one of his new films.

Yes, really.

But then, you enter the rehearsal room itself. It looks more like the control room of the starship Enterprise than a fancy hotel suite, full of wires and cables and screens and monitors and the like. At any moment, Captain Kirk could come strolling in to demand that Scotty beam him up somewhere – and with the high tech equipment in this room, you actually believe it could happen – while Bones reminds Kirk that he’s a doctor, not a race car driver.

Sometimes, the superstar drivers of NASCAR garner a little negative feedback when they speak. Critics claim it sounds as if the words of others are placed in their mouths to come perfectly spilling back out at the appropriate moment. Even victory lane speeches, some people say, can be so predictable they sound as if they’re scripted.

This is where I begin to take issue. I mean, most of are still lucky enough to have jobs, right? But how many of us just show up at work in the morning and wing it? And how much job security would we have if we did?

Life is about preparation. Primary school prepares us for high school, which in turn prepares us for college, or for entering the work force. We make preparations when we take a vacation, or get married, or have a baby. Even the girls among us (my hand is up) have embraced the tenet of the Boy Scouts of America : Be prepared.

So, if this is the rule we apply to our own lives, why would we criticize others for doing exactly the same thing? Doesn’t that seem kind of two-faced?

Enter the ultimate professional, four-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Jeff Gordon.

Gordon arrived right on time for his speech rehearsal. He ran through his remarks, which he had prepared –there’s that word again – and practiced in advance, with nary a hitch, altering a word here and there so things would sound more natural. He was concerned that his sponsors, his team and anyone else who had contributed to his once again earning a spot in the top 10 driver standings be duly acknowledged.

Wow. Someone very recognizable in corporate America and in NASCAR who makes a point of giving credit where credit is due. What a concept. Who could be critical of that?

After Gordon came Chad Knaus, the only crew chief in history to pilot his driver to three consecutive Cup Series championships. Earlier in the week, Knaus had considered a speech based on bullet points and extemporization, but instead showed up for rehearsal with prepared remarks. They were entertaining, riveting, heartfelt and funny all at once. Knaus explained that he feared being overcome by emotion during his live speech, and felt a written version would give him more focus.

Any father who ever made a toast at his daughter’s wedding, or shared a dance with her, probably knows exactly how Knaus felt.

The most highly lauded, Tony Award-winning Broadway plays have regular dress rehearsals, where the kinks are ironed out and any wrinkles removed in order to present a beautiful, unmarred face to the public when the lights go on, the curtain rises and show time comes at last.

There are two important things to note about perfect worlds, however. One, they don’t exist, and two, even if they did, they couldn’t be perfect, because nothing ever can.

Thank goodness for that. It allows us mere mortals the luxury of feeling just a tiny bit better about ourselves.

So when the time comes to publicly thank all the appropriate people and organizations and sponsors for their support during generally troublesome times, who wouldn’t want to be prepared? Who wouldn’t feel the need to go the extra mile, or show up at the extra speech rehearsal, to make sure everything was just right?

Sometimes, talk isn’t cheap at all. In some instances, it can be worth several million bucks.

That’s something you would definitely want to be prepared for.

- Cathy Elliott, LIVE from New York City

BBQ Time!

The Darlington County Humane Society Rescue Team is raising money today with a BBQ fundraiser. Stop by the First Church God, 620 N. Main St., until 2 p.m. or from 4 to 6 p.m. for a plate!

Good news! The group sold 1200 plates by a quarter after noon!

Legion Family Raising Funds for Wounded Warriors

The American Legion, the American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of the American Legion have launched a fundraising effort to purchase comfort items for hospitalized troops recovering in U.S. military and VA medical centers around the world.

“The government does a good job of providing the essentials,” said American Legion National Commander David K. Rehbein. “We want to be able to provide items that usually don’t appear in the budget, such as personal sweat suits, I-Pods, DVDs and other comfort items. The American Legion family is challenging its members and all caring Americans to raise $50,000 by the holidays so we can brighten the season for those who have given us so much.”

The project is called Operation Comfort Warriors. Donors can make online contributions by visiting www.legion.org/ocw or by sending a check to Operation Comfort Warriors, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206. Administrative and promotional costs for Operation Comfort Warriors are paid by The American Legion, allowing all of the donations to be spent directly on the troops.

Can Clinton be Secretary of State?

The idea that Sen. Hillary Clinton cannot take the post of Secretary of State has been circulating the Internet and talk radio since her appointment was suggested.

An article on LegalNewsLine explains:

U.S. Sen. Hillary Clinton is constitutionally ineligible to serve as President-elect Barack Obama's secretary of state, a legal watchdog group said Tuesday.

Judicial Watch said the Ineligibility Clause of the United States Constitution says that no member of Congress can be appointed to an office that has benefited from a salary increase during the time that person was in Congress.
...
The Nixon administration was able to get legislation passed that reduced the salary to the level that existed prior to Saxbe's appointment.

Former President Bill Clinton used the so-called "Saxbe Fix," to allow Sen. Lloyd Bentsen, D-Texas, to assume the position of treasury secretary.

Do you think Sen. Clinton can or should serve? Or do you think President-elect Obama should choose someone else?

Are guns the Answer?

Kerri Houston of Regular Folks United suggests in her article that the terrorist attacks in Mumbai would not have occurred or been as deadly had citizens been armed.

Here's a snippet:

Last spring, while preparing for their murderous attack on Mumbai, ten terrorists dutifully took their driver's licenses and proofs of residency to their nearest gun licensing office to ensure that their rifles and handguns were legally registered with the appropriate authorities.

Seriously? Of course not - its ludicrous. Criminals don't stand in line to register weapons, and neither do terrorists. Only the law abiding do, unless - as in the case of India - they can't.

Although private gun ownership in India is allowable by law, bewildering licensing restrictions, bureaucratic red tape, and government policy that makes guns and ammunition prohibitively expensive renders gun ownership unattainable for most people- and provided the Mumbai terrorists unfettered access to their victims.

In fact, gun licensing is so difficult in India that even security guards don't have guns. When the terrorists entered the Mumbai train station and the Taj and Oberoi-Trident hotels, none of the guards were armed. Instead, they are issued bamboo sticks, a traditional Indian defense tool called a "lathi."

Read the full article here. What do you think? Could armed citizens have countered the terrorist? Could it have created more causalties?

Arts Council's Christmas Shoppe

Thursday, December 4th will mark the beginning of Black Creek Arts Council's Second Annual Christmas Shoppe. The event, which features local, regional, and national artists, will last until December 6th and will be held at the Black Creek Arts Center on College Avenue.

The Christmas Shoppe kicks off with an opening reception from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, continues from noon to 5 p.m. on Friday, and concludes from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. Admission is free on all three days.

While parents shop, kids will also have an avenue for enjoyment. Michelle Morris will be offering a holiday ornament-making class. The class will be offered during the opening reception and will cost $4. Students will be allowed to start as they arrive.

Along with ornament-making, kids will also be able to visit with Santa Claus. Santa will be making a visit from the North Pole to the Arts Center for the opening reception. Santa will be available for photographs.

The artists selling in the Christmas Shoppe are: Suzanne Muldrow (photography), Mike Gann & Laurie Brown (glassware), Mary Lou Bailey (hand-built pottery), Barbara Watson (hand-thrown pottery), Sammy Clark (pottery), Beth Wicker (handmade jewelry, mixed media fiber and silk paintings), Theresa Truett Rogol (handmade jewelry), Patrick Showalter (handmade soap), Dianna Herrera-Keller (handmade jewelry), and Dyana Flax (customized mirrors), John Herth (hand-carved wooden decoys of ducks and fish).

The Black Creek Arts Center is located at 116 W. College Avenue in Hartsville. For more information, contact Bruce Douglas at 843.332.6234.

A Smart Car in Darlington

Don't let anyone tell you Darlingtonians aren't environmentally-conscious. I've seen my share of Toyota Prius in the area, but this is the first Smart Car.
The closest dealership is in Charleston.

Consumer Affairs Posts Max Interest Rates

State law requires any business charging interest rates greater than 18 percent to file with the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs (SCDCA). In an effort to help consumers during these difficult financial times, SCDCA is taking things one step further. The Department launched a new listing online that provides information on all businesses that have filed maximum rate schedules with interest rates above 18 percent. The listing also includes information on all car dealerships charging closing or documentation fees. Consumers may find the listing on the Department’s Web site or through this link.

The list currently includes nearly 1900 businesses and dealerships that either have interest rates greater than 18 percent or charge closing fees. Businesses or dealerships that fall under one of these categories and have not filed should contact the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs immediately or face potential fines.

What Will Your FCC Chair Look Like?

The American public is inviting applications for the position of chair of the Federal Communications Commission. We seek a dynamic candidate who will champion the public interest at a time of hope and transformation for our national media.

The Web site FressPress.Net invites people to vote on the priorities of the new FCC Chair that President-Elect Obama will select.

Go here to vote.

Holiday Shopping Gets Easy: Give a Manatee!

There is a way to steer clear of some of the holiday hustle and hype this year. Consider adopting a manatee for loved ones and good friends online, or with a phone call, right from the comfort of your own home.

An adoption from Save the Manatee Club is a HUGE favorite on gift lists everywhere. It costs $25 and includes an adoption certificate, photo of a real Florida manatee, biography, membership handbook, a subscription to the Club’s quarterly newsletter, The Manatee Zone, and the bi-monthly e-newsletter, Paddle Tales, and free shipping. Or for $35, each new member who joins the Adopt-A-Manatee program online will also receive a 24” x 12” full-color 2009 wall calendar (while supplies last). A personalized holiday message is offered with each adoption.

There are 32 manatees to choose from in the Club’s three Florida adoption programs at Blue Spring State Park near Orange City, Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park in Homosassa, and in the Tampa Bay area. The Club’s quick and easy online gift catalog features a variety of manatee items, including jewelry, toys, books, and all kinds of marvels for manatee fans and gift givers alike. The catalog items can be viewed and purchased at http://www.savethemanatee.org/manateegifts.htm.

For more information about manatees, or the adoption program, contact Save the Manatee Club at 500 N. Maitland Ave., Maitland, FL 32751, call 1-800-432-JOIN (5646), or visit their web site at www.savethemanatee.org. Also, sign up for the Club’s free E-Newsletter.

S.C. House Democrats Elect Leadership Team

On Tuesday, December 2, the S.C. House Democratic Caucus reconvened during organizational session to elect the leadership team for the 2009-2010 Legislative Session.

Representative Harry Ott from Calhoun County will continue to lead the House Democratic Caucus in his third term as House Minority Leader. “I am honored to continue serving as the Democratic leader in the House of Representatives,” Ott stated. I look forward to continuing our work as we move forward on important issues that concern all South Carolinians,” said Ott.

Other elected Caucus Officers included Representative Joe Neal (Richland & Sumter Counties) as Assistant Minority Leader, Representative Cathy Harvin (Clarendon & Williamsburg County) as Deputy Minority Leader, Representative Laurie Funderburk (Kershaw County) as Treasurer, Representative Chris Hart (Richland County) as Secretary, Representative Walt McLeod (Lexington & Newberry Counties) as Parliamentarian, and Representative Carl Anderson (Georgetown & Williamsburg Counties) as Chaplain.

Gov. Sanford on C-SPAN

Gov. Mark Sandford is a guest on C-SPAN this morning and is talking about the bailouts. He's against them and makes a good point about the larger issue the bailouts bring up. The government choosing who is bailed out means the politicians and lobbyists choose the winners in the economy. Then, responsible folks are being forced to pay for others' irresponsibility.

Do you want that?

You may be able to watch the segment on the C-SPAN site or on TV when today's Washington Journal re-airs.

DeMint: New Capitol Visitor Center Omits History of Faith

Today, U.S. Senator Jim DeMint (R-South Carolina) made the following statement on the opening of the new Capitol Visitor Center (CVC) in Washington, D.C. He recently fought to include prominent displays of our national motto, “In God We Trust,” and the Pledge of Allegiance within the CVC. The Architect of the Capitol has also been instructed to consider the rich faith heritage of our Nation when selecting the content of any future display.

“The Capitol Visitor Center is designed to tell the history and purpose of our nation's Capitol, but it fails to appropriately honor our religious heritage that has been critical to America’s success,” said Senator DeMint. “While the Architect of the Capitol has pledged to include some references to faith, more needs to be done. You cannot accurately tell the history of America or its Capitol by ignoring the religious heritage of our Founders and the generations since who relied on their faith for strength and guidance. The millions of visitors that will visit the CVC each year should get a true portrayal of the motivations and inspirations of those who have served in Congress since its establishment.

“The current CVC displays are left-leaning and in some cases distort our true history. Exhibits portray the federal government as the fulfillment of human ambition and the answer to all of society’s problems. This is a clear departure from acknowledging that Americans’ rights ‘are endowed by their Creator’ and stem from ‘a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence.’ Instead, the CVC’s most prominent display proclaims faith not in God, but in government. Visitors will enter reading a large engraving that states, ‘We have built no temple but the Capitol. We consult no common oracle but the Constitution.’ This is an intentional misrepresentation of our nation’s real history, and an offensive refusal to honor America's God-given blessings. As George Washington stated clearly in his first inaugural address:

‘…[I]t would be peculiarly improper to omit in this first official Act, my fervent supplications to that Almighty Being who rules over the Universe, who presides in the Councils of Nations, and whose providential aids can supply every human defect, that his benediction may consecrate to the liberties and happiness of the People of the United States, a Government instituted by themselves for these essential purposes: and may enable every instrument employed in its administration to execute with success, the functions allotted to his charge.’

“The fundamental principles of the freedom we enjoy in this country stem from our Founding Fathers’ beliefs in a higher power, beliefs put forth in the Declaration of Independence and manifest throughout our Constitution,” said Senator DeMint. “If we cease to acknowledge this fact, we may cease to enjoy some of the freedoms we take for granted. We must not censor historical references to God for the sake of political correctness. And we must truthfully represent the limited form of government the Constitution lays out so that our ‘government of the people, by the people, and for the people, shall not perish from the earth.’ So help us God.”

Make Lunch Plans Now

Buy Some BBQ to Benefit the Darlington Humane Society
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 to 6 p.m. Dec. 4 in the First Church of God fellowship hall at 620 N. Main St. in Darlington.
$7 per plate. Dine in or take out.
Tickets will be available and donations will be accepted at First Church of God and Bella Domani, 109 Russell Street in Darlington.
All proceeds benefit the Darlington Humane Society Rescue Team.
Info: 393-7942 or www.fcgdarlington.net.

Read more about the team in the Dec. 3 edition of the News & Press and here (The story will be posted by 5 p.m. Wednesday).

Presents for Pets

Paulette Lunn's English V Class at Mayo High School for Math, Science, and Technology in Darlington is holding a drive to raise goods for the Darlington County Humane Society. This project "Presents for Pets" will be collecting Pet Food, Bedding, Pet Toys, Cleaning Supplies, etc. Donations may be made at Mayo High School, Darlington County Recreation Department, and the Darlington County Chamber of Commerce. The students have also constructed a Web site explaining this project and it's address is www.presentsforpets.synthasite.com.

PCMag.com Names the Fastest ISPs in America

In a world where time equals money, slow Internet connections have real-life business and quality-of-life implications. Fiber optic connections have proven themselves the fastest way online, but they're still rare—and expensive. Which Internet service providers (ISPs) offer the fastest broadband? And in which state? After conducting over 200,000 individual tests as part of its third annual study, PCMag.com found that Verizon's FiOS fiber-optic connections are indeed the fastest overall service, and Cablevision's Optimum Online proved itself the fastest cable ISP in the United States. Likewise, Nevada, Virginia, and Pennsylvania are home to the fastest surf speeds—the full state ranking is below. PCMag.com’s “Best ISPs in America” list hits PCMag.com on December 2.

To uncover the nation’s best ISPs, PCMag utilized the custom-designed SurfSpeed application (a utility that grabs pages from several popular Web sites to measure actual Internet surfing speed) and pored through data from over 17,000 profiles (that is, unique IP addresses).

Cable vs. DSL: DSL and cable lines were for a time synonymous in people’s minds, but cable has clearly taken off in terms of sheer speed. Cable connections are 47 percent faster than DSLs. Cablevision’s Optimum Online tops the list, with an average nationwide SurfSpeed of 839 Kbps. And 61 percent of users declared themselves satisfied with the service. Even the slowest cable service provider (Earthlink, averaging 565 Kbps) was faster than some DSL providers, from CenturyTel at 520 Kbps down to Alltell’s measly 357. FrontierNet is the fastest DSL provider in the nation, averaging SufSpeeds of 724 Kbps. And, perhaps most importantly, just 27 percent of DSL users reported themselves satisfied.

State by State: Analyzing regions offers insight and challenges, but the region with the fastest Internet service—the West—is just 14 Kbps faster than the slowest, the South at 551 Kbps. The difference between states, on the other hand, is shocking, with No. 1 Nevada offering residents Internet more than twice as fast as bottom-ranked New Mexico.

South Carolina ranked quite low at #38.
North Carolina ranked #29.

Antique Saddles and Other Western Gear on Display

A rare treat is in store for visitors to this year’s Jacob Kelley House Guild’s Open House on Sunday, December 7. Goz and Pat Segars will have on display their collection of antique western saddles and other western artifacts. The collection includes 30 saddles dating from 1863 to the present.

The Christmas Open House is scheduled for December 7th from 3 to 5 pm. In addition to the western display, the Kelley House will be decorated for the season, and the Hartsville Chamber Ensemble will perform a cappella selections of favorite Christmas carols. Bill Segars will be on hand with a portion of his extensive collection of historic church photographs.

For more information on these events and others in Darlington County contact: darcotour@bellsouth.net or call 888-427-8720.

Eat, Drink and Be Larry

The man who added the catch phrase “Git-R-Done” to the American lexicon is coming to Florence 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 12. Dan Whitney, known better as Larry The Cable Guy, has proven to be one of the most successful comics.

For a limited time, the Florence Civic Center is offering an ‘Economic Recovery Package’ where select tickets are buy one get one free. This offer on select seats is valid Dec. 5 at 10am until Dec. 29 at midnight**.

TICKET PRICES: $43.75 Artist Circle and **Limited Time** 2 for 1 - $43.75, additional taxes/fees may apply
SALES LOCATIONS: Florence Civic Center Box Office and Ticketmaster.com
CHARGE-BY-PHONE: 843-679-9333

ARTIST WEBSITE: Larrythecableguy.com
FOR MORE INFO:outbackconcerts.com, florenceciviccenter.com

Law that bans homosexual adoption ruled unconstitutional

Today, a Miami State Court Judge ruled that a 1977 Florida law that bans homosexual adoption is unconstitutional. Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Cindy Lederman says that the law violates equal protection rights for homosexuals and that there is no valid reason to consider sexual orientation when approving adoption. The state has already filed an appeal.

News links
Huffington Post Story
CBS Story
US News and World Report Story

42nd Governor's Carolighting

On Sunday, Nov. 30, ETV rings in the holidays with statewide coverage of the 42nd Annual Governor’s Carolighting. The program airs LIVE from the State House steps beginning at 6 p.m.

This time-honored tradition marks the official start of the yuletide season in South Carolina, as Governor Mark Sanford gives his Christmas message and lights the state's Christmas tree.

The program will be filled with the sounds of the season as musicians of every age and from every corner of the Palmetto State perform some of the most beloved Christmas carols, including O Come, All Ye Faithful; Angels We Have Heard on High; and The First Nowell.

Performances this year include selections from the Governor's All-Star High School Chorus and Band, the USC Trumpet Choir, the Palmetto Mastersingers, the Carolighting Children's Choir and the Carolighting Handbell Choir.

Tips on Beating Financial Blues

Kim Snider, CEO of Snider Advisors (which manages approximately 500 million dollars) and author of the new book How to Be the Family CFO: 4 Simple Steps to Put Your Financial House in Order (www.kimsnider.com), advises

1. Plan Prudently – Whether you do your bills online or the old fashioned way, every family can easily see what they owe in bills every month. Gather the paperwork into one stack, or create a computer file that details all your regular monthly expenditures. Combine it with your pay stubs and records of any other income. Now, you have a clear picture of your revenue and your payables. Moreover, you also have due dates for those bills, so you can match your cash flow (when you get paid) with when certain bills are due. Now, simply plan out what you’re going to pay and when you’ll pay it. Most companies mirror this procedure once a week, cutting checks on Fridays. You may not need to do it as often, but if you review your expenses once a week, you’ll always know where your money is and where it’s going.

2. Save Prodigiously – Saving money, to most families, is one of those things that always gets delayed for next paycheck. But saving is more than just trying to create a stockpile of cash for the proverbial rainy day – it’s about weathering the minor drizzles that come along every month. Unexpected car repairs, medical bills, home repairs, clothes for kids who can’t seem to STOP growing – these are all examples of flies in the budget ointment. If you can put away even $10 per week, it can help stem the impact of having your car’s alternator go belly up the same week you’re buying holiday gifts.

3. Invest Wisely – Take true advantage of your employer-sponsored retirement plans and 401K plans by allowing them to deduct the maximum amount from your paychecks. In many cases, employers match that money, so it’s tantamount to saving twice the amount for retirement. Plus, the more you save up front, the more you’ll benefit from the magic of compounded interest. The few dollars in cash flow you sacrifice now (which won’t hurt as bad as you think, because it’s PRE-TAX dollars) will be well worth it when you see your retirement balance grow later.

4. Manage Risk – Your biggest risk isn’t what you might think it is – it’s not about the financial markets or even your house burning down. Rather, the biggest risk for most people is the loss of your regular income. The vast majority of families who are in trouble today aren’t in crisis because of natural disaster or catastrophic illness, but rather, because someone in the household lost a job. You can hedge that risk by keeping your job skills current and competitive, and taking on a disability insurance policy.

Podcast features introduced on SC Department of Education Web site

he South Carolina Department of Education’s Web site today introduced a menu of audio podcasts that offer new ways to access information on South Carolina public schools.

Visitors can listen to the new features via their computers or download them for “on-the-go” listening using portable media players such as IPods and other MP3 devices.

The new podcast features include:

Speaking of Schools – This half-hour program, which airs Monday nights on South Carolina Educational Radio, is now available via podcast. Host Doug Keel welcomes guests who share information on education in South Carolina.

The Afternoon Drive with Jim Rex – Rex periodically shares his thoughts on the state’s public schools during the commute to his home in Fairfield County.

Education News – This periodic feature offers full audio coverage and “behind-the-scenes” interviews on news events concerning public schools. Examples include interviews with Mark Bounds, the Education Department’s Deputy Superintendent for Educator Quality and Leadership, on the topic of inappropriate relationships between teachers and students, and with Rex on 2008 PACT scores.

The Week in Review – A summary of the previous week’s news stories about public schools.

Pick of the Pods – Links to popular national podcasts about science, math, English and social studies.

Education Petition

Emails are being sent out for people to sign a petition to support a constitutional amendment to insert the words "high quality education" in South Carolina's constitution, replacing the current standard of "a minimally adequate education."

The petition asks the legislature to allow the people of South Carolina to vote on this amendment in the 2010 election, and the principal sponsors of this legislation are State Senator John Matthews Senate District 39 and Representative James Smith House District 72.

Go to www.GoodbyeMinimallyAdequate.com to view or sign the petition.

Will this make a difference in our schools? Post your thoughts here in the comments.

American Strongman Event and Jamboree in Florence

The American Strongman event will take place from 1- 4 PM on Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 24 and 25.

American Strongman “Live” is on the road early this year joining the 4th Annual Kid’s Jamboree in Florence South Carolina at the Florence Civic Center. The event drew 14,000 children and families last year and is complete with entertainment from Snake Master Steve Scruggs, Medieval Times, a giant Slide, rock walls and much, much more. “We are very happy to be part of a fun day for children and families. We expect to reach many new fans and get them excited about non-violent, family friendly sports events.” said ASC Dione Wessels.
“The day is filled with hands on activities and exciting entertainment for the children and we are
beefing up our show this year by bringing in American Strongman,” said Tina Dean, Director of Sales and Marketing at the Florence Civic Center. “The competitions are action packed and we know the kids will love it.”

One Hundred Dollars Fiction Contest

The Piccolo Fiction Open is a literary competition in its ninth year of the Piccolo Spoleto Festival. This year the theme is One Hundred Dollars.

The word limit is 1300. Please submit four copies of your original, unpublished work with a postmark no later than Jan. 9, 2009. Include one separate cover page with your contact information and title of the story. At the top of your story, please include your phone number only. A $10 submission fee is required; please make checks payable to the City of Charleston.

$200 will be awarded for the top story, followed by a $150 and a $50 prize, as well as runners-up. One story (or more) will be chosen to appear in Dark Sky Magazine. There are no residency restrictions, though writers who would like to read their work in Charleston during the festival are encouraged to submit.

Submit Application Materials to:
ATTN: PFO 2009
City of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs
180 Meeting Street, Suite 200
Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 724-7305

Chamber Celebration at 5 today

The Greater Darlington County Chamber of Commerce is celebrating the launch of its Grow Darlington program 5 p.m. today at the chamber on the Square in Darlington! Details to come in the Nov. 19 edition of the News & Press.

Farmers’ Conference to Focus on Selling Locally

Selling locally—it’s a solution for farmers seeking new buyers for their products. Learn how at the Marketing Opportunities for Farmers Conference on Saturday, Feb. 28 at Warren Wilson College in Swannanoa, NC. Offered by Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project (ASAP), this sixth annual conference provides farmers with training and networking opportunities they need to sustain their farms in changing markets.

Workshops, ranging from the introductory Marketing Basics for the New Farmer to specialized topics such as Marketing Grass Fed Meats, Successful Tailgate Marketing in Rural Areas, and Successful Models of Cooperative Marketing, are about promoting farm products.

Workshops are taught by fellow farmers, agriculture professionals, and marketing specialists.

Farmers and those seriously considering farming as a profession should attend. Potential buyers of locally-grown goods are also invited to attend the full conference, or come to network for no charge. Opportunities for farmer/buyer meetings are planned.

The cost for the conference is $30, or $40 per two farm partners if you register before February 1st. The cost is $35, or $50 per two farm partners beginning February 1. Price includes light breakfast, local foods lunch, and resource notebook

For more information or to register, visit http://www.asapconnections.org/MOFF.html or call (828) 236-1282.

South Carolina online learning program ranks 17th in nation

South Carolina is ranked 17th in a new survey of online learning policies and practices across the 50 states. The survey was conducted by the Center for Digital Education to examine what it called “the overall landscape of online learning in U.S. schools.”

The center’s findings are based on interviews with officials from each state. The survey found that 15 states (including South Carolina) offer state-led programs, while 16 states provide multi-district online learning. Two states are in the planning stages and 17 presently have no online program.

Other southern states with high rankings include Arkansas and Louisiana at fourth and fifth, respectively; North Carolina, ranked eighth; and Virginia, listed in 12th place. Alabama is 23rd and Georgia is 26th.

State Superintendent of Education Jim Rex pushed for expansion of South Carolina’s virtual school program for online learning in 2007 as part of his plan to offer students and parents more public school choice.

“The virtual school gives more choices and flexibility in what, when and where students learn,” Rex said. “We’ve shown that the demand for online classes can be met without sacrificing quality or accountability. It’s a great example of using innovation to improve student achievement.”

South Carolina has enrolled nearly 7,400 students for online learning, with enrollment growth of 350 percent since the beginning of the program. The state earned favorable marks in the survey for allowing all students to have access to online learning opportunities, for making online learning part of school reform strategy, and for offering teacher training online.

Unlike the online learning programs offered in some other states, South Carolina’s virtual school has a structured curriculum aligned to state standards, state-certified teachers, testing and transcripts.

The Center for Digital Education said its survey and rankings show that online education will become more prevalent as states and school districts continue to face the challenges of meeting student achievement levels, finding qualified teachers and preparing the next generation for
careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

30th Annual Christmas Bird Count

Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge will host its 30th consecutive Christmas Bird Count on Sunday Dec. 14. The National Audubon Society has been conducting this survey for 109 years. The refuge joined the count in 1979 to help provide a more accurate census of the numbers and species of birds present on the Refuge during the winter.

Beginning before dawn and finishing at dusk, participants will identify and tally birds seen and/or heard within a 15 mile circle. The area will be covered by vehicle and on foot with special emphasis on the refuge’s many ponds and lakes, longleaf pine areas, hardwood stands, and open fields. Portions of Lake Robinson are also included in the count area and add to the diversity of habitat types covered on this count. Participants should look forward to a very enjoyable day in the field and expect to see and hear a variety of birds.

Since 1979, a total of 103 species have been recorded. Previous counts have included 15 species of waterfowl, 11 birds of prey, horned larks, Lincoln’s sparrows, and the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker.

The count will begin at 6:15 a.m. from the Refuge Headquarters, located 4 miles East of McBee on U.S. Hwy. 1. Persons interested in joining this year’s count should contact the compiler, Nancy Jordan, by noon on Dec. 10 at (843) 335-6026 or email nancy_jordan@fws.gov. A $5 fee helps defer the costs of generating materials for compilers, producing the annual CBC summary issue, and maintaining the CBC website and database.

Grab your binoculars and your field guide, pack a lunch, and plan to spend an enjoyable day in the fresh air of the sandhills.

Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge is a 46,000-acre longleaf pine forest managed primarily for the red-cockaded woodpecker, a federally endangered species. Along with rolling sand hills dominated by the longleaf pine-wiregrass ecosystem, the refuge is home to streamside pocosins, open fields, hardwood ridges, wetlands and open water ponds. This mosaic of habitats provides for the needs of more than 190 species of birds, 42 species of mammals, 41 species of reptiles, and 25 species of amphibians. More than 800 species of plants have been identified on the refuge, including rare species of pitcher plants, Well’s pixie-moss, and the white-wicky. The refuge is located in Chesterfield County.