Posted below are the beginning paragraphs of a column written by Dr. Ansemo Arthur a highly respected Aiken cardiologist. The Aiken Standard published the column today. Medical treatment everywhere is a highly subjective matter and most negative comments are either based on a single “bad” experience or hearsay.
City Council members are still receiving many comments from citizens who are either for or against the proposed new medical complex in Aiken. The Council unanimously rejected the University Hospital’s original request for a change in the concept plan based on the amount of traffic that the proposed 72,000 sf would create. What most citizens do not know is that the current concept plan for the land allows the University to build at least 30,000 sf. of office space so long as the building architecture is consistent with the original design.My understanding is that University Hospital might submit a new down-sized request for a change in concept plan that would permit them to build just one 17,000sf building. Any subsequent buildings would have to come to Council for approval.
"Local hospital care at risk if University comes to Aiken
2/23/2009 12:37 AM
By DR. ANSERMO ARTHUR
Guest columnist
As a current resident and practicing cardiologist in Aiken for the past 13 years, I, like many of you, have read with great interest the ongoing debate concerning University Hospital's foray into the Aiken medical community.
I will summarize what I believe to be the most salient points concerning this issue from a physician's point of view.
Everyone has a story. Whether it is about good or bad service, most everyone can remember and come up with at least one anecdote detailing some experience they may have had in the doctor's office.
I, as well as my partners, see patients from Augusta with similar stories detailing bad experiences they may have had with a doctor or hospital in Augusta. The fact is that all of this is irrelevant to the matter at hand. Just like those individuals who make a conscious decision to cross the river and choose me or any other doctor in Aiken, so too may a person living in Aiken make the choice to go to Augusta for the same purpose. It is about convenience and not choice! Competition notwithstanding, what price will we really be willing to pay in the long run for convenience?" more
THE AIKEN JOURNAL-Covering Politics in Aiken, South Carolina,the Nation and sometimes the World.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Aiken City Council Meeting - Feb 23
AIKEN CORPORATION WORK SESSION – On Monday February 23 at 6 P. M. City Council will meet with the Aiken Corporation to review the various projects that Aiken Corporation has worked on or is currently working on. We will discuss the charter of the Aiken Corporation to ensure that it relates to current projects. As many residents know, the Aiken Corporation is building the Railroad Depot and supporting the building of the African-American Cultural Museum. In reviewing the information provided by the City Manager, it is clear that City Council, with the exception of Dick Smith and Jane Vaughters, has enthusiastically supported the use of public monies for each of these projects. Since 2004 Council has agreed to provide maintenance of the Railroad Depot, staff the Railroad Depot with the City Tourism Department, and accept the building when it is completed.
BEST FRIEND EXPRESS – We have received the 2008-2009 second quarter report from the Best Friend Express operation by Aiken County. The Lower Savannah Council of Governments reports ridership is up 27% from this time last year. In addition, their Dial-A-Ride program remains very popular, delivering 142 riders a total of 13,252 miles. Citizens, with a doctor’s statement indicating that their patient cannot physically access a regular Best Friend Express stop, can call Dial-A-Ride instead. More that 1/3 of the Dial-A-Ride participants are senior citizens who would not be otherwise able to travel to their medical, educational, or employment services destination.
DOWNTOWN PARKING ISSUE – Public Safety Chief Pete Frommer and his staff have investigated the concerns sent to Council about larger vehicles parking downtown. The particular area of concern they discovered was Richland Avenue between Laurens and Newberry Streets. We are working with SCDOT which owns the road. The problem can be easily fixed if the center lane marker is relocated. Hopefully, this will not take too long to complete.
SILVER BLUFF REZONING REQUEST – Council will consider a request to rezone 1.64 acres on Silver Bluff across from Hamilton Drive from Residential Multi-Family Low Density to General Business. The rezoning would consist of one lot fronting on Silver Bluff Road. The owner’s intent is to sell a portion of this rezoned property for a martial arts studio. The owner is asking that the traffic study be waived in return for him restricting the property to 1,000 or fewer trips per day. At the Planning Commission, many residents in the area were strongly opposed to this request.
FIRST READING OF AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CITY OF AIKEN’S COMPREHENSIVE LAND USE AND TRANSPORTION AND TO ADOPT THE 10 YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT ELEMENT – State law requires that a 10 year Capital Element be adopted as part of our Comprehensive Plan. This plan looks at potential funding for public infrastructure and facilities during the next 10 years and recommends the projects for expenditure for facilities such as water, sewer, and roads. Once this plan is adopted, it would then be coordinated with adjacent and relevant jurisdictions and agencies.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN STUDY AREA – The Planning Commission has recommended that the Comprehensive Plan boundary should generally match the city’s water district line unless there is a good reason for a different boundary. They also felt that the Comprehensive Planning Area should expand further to the east. This would include the water district behind Rudy Mason Parkway and a large portion of the area between Toolebeck and U. S. 78.
IDENTITY THEFT POLICY – Council will be asked to approve a resolution establishing an Identity Theft Policy in compliance with recent federal and state legislation and regulation.
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA – Keep in mind that City Council agendas are available on line. The complete agenda includes supporting documents that we review to determine a course of action. The link for Monday’s City Council agenda is http://www.aiken.net/weblink7/docview.aspx?id=100645.
BEST FRIEND EXPRESS – We have received the 2008-2009 second quarter report from the Best Friend Express operation by Aiken County. The Lower Savannah Council of Governments reports ridership is up 27% from this time last year. In addition, their Dial-A-Ride program remains very popular, delivering 142 riders a total of 13,252 miles. Citizens, with a doctor’s statement indicating that their patient cannot physically access a regular Best Friend Express stop, can call Dial-A-Ride instead. More that 1/3 of the Dial-A-Ride participants are senior citizens who would not be otherwise able to travel to their medical, educational, or employment services destination.
DOWNTOWN PARKING ISSUE – Public Safety Chief Pete Frommer and his staff have investigated the concerns sent to Council about larger vehicles parking downtown. The particular area of concern they discovered was Richland Avenue between Laurens and Newberry Streets. We are working with SCDOT which owns the road. The problem can be easily fixed if the center lane marker is relocated. Hopefully, this will not take too long to complete.
SILVER BLUFF REZONING REQUEST – Council will consider a request to rezone 1.64 acres on Silver Bluff across from Hamilton Drive from Residential Multi-Family Low Density to General Business. The rezoning would consist of one lot fronting on Silver Bluff Road. The owner’s intent is to sell a portion of this rezoned property for a martial arts studio. The owner is asking that the traffic study be waived in return for him restricting the property to 1,000 or fewer trips per day. At the Planning Commission, many residents in the area were strongly opposed to this request.
FIRST READING OF AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CITY OF AIKEN’S COMPREHENSIVE LAND USE AND TRANSPORTION AND TO ADOPT THE 10 YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT ELEMENT – State law requires that a 10 year Capital Element be adopted as part of our Comprehensive Plan. This plan looks at potential funding for public infrastructure and facilities during the next 10 years and recommends the projects for expenditure for facilities such as water, sewer, and roads. Once this plan is adopted, it would then be coordinated with adjacent and relevant jurisdictions and agencies.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN STUDY AREA – The Planning Commission has recommended that the Comprehensive Plan boundary should generally match the city’s water district line unless there is a good reason for a different boundary. They also felt that the Comprehensive Planning Area should expand further to the east. This would include the water district behind Rudy Mason Parkway and a large portion of the area between Toolebeck and U. S. 78.
IDENTITY THEFT POLICY – Council will be asked to approve a resolution establishing an Identity Theft Policy in compliance with recent federal and state legislation and regulation.
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA – Keep in mind that City Council agendas are available on line. The complete agenda includes supporting documents that we review to determine a course of action. The link for Monday’s City Council agenda is http://www.aiken.net/weblink7/docview.aspx?id=100645.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Common Sense from Ed Giobbe
The following comments appeared in the Aiken Standard on February 18 and are being posted here in case you missed.
“ONE OF THE GREAT STRENGTHS OF AMERICA IS THE ABILITY OF ITS PEOPLE TO COME TOGETHER IN A TIME OF NATIONAL CRISIS. THE PRESENT ECONOMIC AND FINANCIAL CRISIS IS A TEST OF THAT ABILITY. THERE ARE THOSE WHO WOULD ATTEMPT TO ADVANCE SOCIAL PROGRAMS AT GREAT EXPENSE UNDER THE GUISE OF ECONOMIC STIMULUS.
THERE ARE ALSO THOSE WHO OPPOSE ANY ATTEMPT TO REDUCE UNEMPLOYMENT AND REDUCE ECONOMIC HARDSHIP AS IRRESPONSIBLE SPENDING AND SOCIALISM. WE MUST STEER A COURSE BETWEEN THESE TWO EXTREMES. WE MUST REJECT RIGID IDEOLOGICAL POSITIONS AND BE PRAGMATIC. WHAT IS IMPORTANT IS WHAT WORKS.
THE FIRST ORDER OF BUSINESS IS TO STOP THE ECONOMIC DECLINE
CAUSED BY THE COLLAPSE OF HOUSING AND ITS PARAYLIZING AFFECT ON BANKS AND FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS. WE MUST HALT THE DOWNWARD SPIRAL OF FORECLOSURES, FALLING HOUSE PRICES, INSTABILITY IN THE FINANCIAL SYSTEM AND RESULTING UNEMPLOYMENT WITH IMMEDIATE, MASSIVE, DECISIVE ACTION. THIS WILL REQUIRE BOLD AND EXPENSIVE PROGRAMS TO DEAL WITH THE CLEAR AND PRESENT DANGER OF THE CURRENT SITUATION.
TAX RELIEF MUST BE PART OF THE SOLUTION IN ORDER TO GET MONEY AND CREDIT TO START FLOWING INTO THE ECONOMY ONCE MORE. ANY ACTION MUST DEAL WITH THE PRESENT SEVERE AND DANGEROUS ECONOMIC DECLINE. WE NEED TAX CUTS NOW NOT LONG TERM. PEOPLE DON’T EAT IN THE LONG TERM, THEY EAT TOMORROW MORNING.
THE CAUSES OF THE PRESENT CRISIS HAVE BECOME PAINFULLY EVIDENT. GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS TO ADVANCE AFFORDABLE HOUSING WITH LOW INTEREST RATES AND OVERLY LAX CREDIT STANDARDS WITH BANKS AND FINANCIAL INSTITIONS ONLY TOO EAGER TO LEND MONEY FOR MORTAGES WTH NO INCOME DOCUMENTATION BETTER KNOWN AS “LIAR LOANS”, LITTLE OR NO DOWNPAYMENT, ADJUSTABLE RATE MORTGAGES WITH LOW TEASER RATES, PICK AND PAY (SKIP THE MONTHLY PAYMENT ANDADD IT TO THE PRINCIPAL). ALL MADE POSSIBLE THROUGH THE VEHICLE OF LOAN SECURITIZATION IN THE FORM OF HIGHLY COMPLEX MORTGAGE PRODUCTS NO ONE UNDERSTOOD OR COULD CORRECTLY PRICE. THE PREDICTABLE RESULT WAS THE SUBPRIME DEBACLE.
NOW THAT WE KNOW WHAT GOT US INTO THIS MESS, WE MUST MAKE SURE THAT IT DOESN’T HAPPEN AGAIN. IT SHOULD START WITH OUR SENATORS AND REPRESENTATIVES THAT YEAR AFTER YEAR ENCOURAGED AND PROMOTED EASY MONEY, IRRESPONSIBLE HOME OWNERSHIP AND MASSIVE REGULATORY FAILURE. WHAT JUVENAL, THE ROMAN WRTER OBSERVED TWO MILLENIA AGO IS EQUALLY RELEVANT TODAY: “SED QUIS CUSTODIET IPSOS CUSTODES?” (“WHO SHALL GUARD US FROM THE GUARDIANS?”)
FOR FIFTY YEARS AFTER THE BANKING REFORMS OF THE 1930’S, THIS COUNTRY ENJOYED FINANCIAL STABILITY. BANKS LOBBIED HARD FOR MORE FREEDOM TO ENGAGE IN RISKER BUSINESSES RESULTING IN THE 1999 REPEAL OF THE 1933 GLASS STEGALL ACT WHICH HAD SEPATATED COMMERCIAL BANKING FROM INVESTMENT BANKING. WHAT RESULTED WAS A FINANCIAL CASINO OF COWBOY CAPTALISM.
MOST OF THE FINANCIAL CRISISES OVER THE LAST CENTURY HAVE BEEN CAUSED BY OVEREXTENSION OF CREDIT AND BAD REAL ESTATE LOANS BY BANKS. AS THE OLD TIGER, GEORGE CLEMENCEAU, THE PREMIER OF FRANCE DURING WWI, SAID , “WAR IS TOO IMPORTANT TO BE LEFT TO THE GENERALS’. IT IS NOW OBVIOUS THAT BANKING IS TOO IMPORTANT TO BE LEFT TO THE BANKERS. THEY NEED TO BE PROTECTED FROM THEMSELVES. BANKS AND FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS CAN NOT BE ALLOWED TO ENDANGER THE ENTIRE NATIONAL ECONOMY BY RECKLESS AND UNREGULATED LENDING.
AMERICA IS A STRONG AND VIBRANT COUNTRY WITH AMAZING RESILENCY. IT WILL OVERCOME THE PRESENT DECLINE AND EMERGE STRONGER AND MORE PRODUCTIVE. IF THERE IS A LESSON TO BE LEARNED, IT IS THAT AS A NATION, WE LOST OUR MORAL COMPASS. WHAT FOLLOWED WAS A RISE IN MATERIALISM AND A REVERENCE OF WEALTH FOR ITS OWN SAKE, THE PURSUIT OF AFFLUENCE UNEMCUMBERED BY VIRTUE.
FOR THE NEXT EIGHTEEN MONTHS ALL OF US, ORDINARY PEOPLE AND LAWMAKERS SHOULD STOP ACTING LIKE DEMOCRATS AND REPUBLICANS, CONSERVATIVES OR LIBERALS AND ACT LIKE AMERICANS. WE NEED A SENSE OF NATIONAL PURPOSE AND RESOLVE. THE GOOD OF OUR COUNTRY AND THE SURVIVAL OF OUR ECONOMIC SYSTEM ARE AT STAKE.”
“ONE OF THE GREAT STRENGTHS OF AMERICA IS THE ABILITY OF ITS PEOPLE TO COME TOGETHER IN A TIME OF NATIONAL CRISIS. THE PRESENT ECONOMIC AND FINANCIAL CRISIS IS A TEST OF THAT ABILITY. THERE ARE THOSE WHO WOULD ATTEMPT TO ADVANCE SOCIAL PROGRAMS AT GREAT EXPENSE UNDER THE GUISE OF ECONOMIC STIMULUS.
THERE ARE ALSO THOSE WHO OPPOSE ANY ATTEMPT TO REDUCE UNEMPLOYMENT AND REDUCE ECONOMIC HARDSHIP AS IRRESPONSIBLE SPENDING AND SOCIALISM. WE MUST STEER A COURSE BETWEEN THESE TWO EXTREMES. WE MUST REJECT RIGID IDEOLOGICAL POSITIONS AND BE PRAGMATIC. WHAT IS IMPORTANT IS WHAT WORKS.
THE FIRST ORDER OF BUSINESS IS TO STOP THE ECONOMIC DECLINE
CAUSED BY THE COLLAPSE OF HOUSING AND ITS PARAYLIZING AFFECT ON BANKS AND FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS. WE MUST HALT THE DOWNWARD SPIRAL OF FORECLOSURES, FALLING HOUSE PRICES, INSTABILITY IN THE FINANCIAL SYSTEM AND RESULTING UNEMPLOYMENT WITH IMMEDIATE, MASSIVE, DECISIVE ACTION. THIS WILL REQUIRE BOLD AND EXPENSIVE PROGRAMS TO DEAL WITH THE CLEAR AND PRESENT DANGER OF THE CURRENT SITUATION.
TAX RELIEF MUST BE PART OF THE SOLUTION IN ORDER TO GET MONEY AND CREDIT TO START FLOWING INTO THE ECONOMY ONCE MORE. ANY ACTION MUST DEAL WITH THE PRESENT SEVERE AND DANGEROUS ECONOMIC DECLINE. WE NEED TAX CUTS NOW NOT LONG TERM. PEOPLE DON’T EAT IN THE LONG TERM, THEY EAT TOMORROW MORNING.
THE CAUSES OF THE PRESENT CRISIS HAVE BECOME PAINFULLY EVIDENT. GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS TO ADVANCE AFFORDABLE HOUSING WITH LOW INTEREST RATES AND OVERLY LAX CREDIT STANDARDS WITH BANKS AND FINANCIAL INSTITIONS ONLY TOO EAGER TO LEND MONEY FOR MORTAGES WTH NO INCOME DOCUMENTATION BETTER KNOWN AS “LIAR LOANS”, LITTLE OR NO DOWNPAYMENT, ADJUSTABLE RATE MORTGAGES WITH LOW TEASER RATES, PICK AND PAY (SKIP THE MONTHLY PAYMENT ANDADD IT TO THE PRINCIPAL). ALL MADE POSSIBLE THROUGH THE VEHICLE OF LOAN SECURITIZATION IN THE FORM OF HIGHLY COMPLEX MORTGAGE PRODUCTS NO ONE UNDERSTOOD OR COULD CORRECTLY PRICE. THE PREDICTABLE RESULT WAS THE SUBPRIME DEBACLE.
NOW THAT WE KNOW WHAT GOT US INTO THIS MESS, WE MUST MAKE SURE THAT IT DOESN’T HAPPEN AGAIN. IT SHOULD START WITH OUR SENATORS AND REPRESENTATIVES THAT YEAR AFTER YEAR ENCOURAGED AND PROMOTED EASY MONEY, IRRESPONSIBLE HOME OWNERSHIP AND MASSIVE REGULATORY FAILURE. WHAT JUVENAL, THE ROMAN WRTER OBSERVED TWO MILLENIA AGO IS EQUALLY RELEVANT TODAY: “SED QUIS CUSTODIET IPSOS CUSTODES?” (“WHO SHALL GUARD US FROM THE GUARDIANS?”)
FOR FIFTY YEARS AFTER THE BANKING REFORMS OF THE 1930’S, THIS COUNTRY ENJOYED FINANCIAL STABILITY. BANKS LOBBIED HARD FOR MORE FREEDOM TO ENGAGE IN RISKER BUSINESSES RESULTING IN THE 1999 REPEAL OF THE 1933 GLASS STEGALL ACT WHICH HAD SEPATATED COMMERCIAL BANKING FROM INVESTMENT BANKING. WHAT RESULTED WAS A FINANCIAL CASINO OF COWBOY CAPTALISM.
MOST OF THE FINANCIAL CRISISES OVER THE LAST CENTURY HAVE BEEN CAUSED BY OVEREXTENSION OF CREDIT AND BAD REAL ESTATE LOANS BY BANKS. AS THE OLD TIGER, GEORGE CLEMENCEAU, THE PREMIER OF FRANCE DURING WWI, SAID , “WAR IS TOO IMPORTANT TO BE LEFT TO THE GENERALS’. IT IS NOW OBVIOUS THAT BANKING IS TOO IMPORTANT TO BE LEFT TO THE BANKERS. THEY NEED TO BE PROTECTED FROM THEMSELVES. BANKS AND FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS CAN NOT BE ALLOWED TO ENDANGER THE ENTIRE NATIONAL ECONOMY BY RECKLESS AND UNREGULATED LENDING.
AMERICA IS A STRONG AND VIBRANT COUNTRY WITH AMAZING RESILENCY. IT WILL OVERCOME THE PRESENT DECLINE AND EMERGE STRONGER AND MORE PRODUCTIVE. IF THERE IS A LESSON TO BE LEARNED, IT IS THAT AS A NATION, WE LOST OUR MORAL COMPASS. WHAT FOLLOWED WAS A RISE IN MATERIALISM AND A REVERENCE OF WEALTH FOR ITS OWN SAKE, THE PURSUIT OF AFFLUENCE UNEMCUMBERED BY VIRTUE.
FOR THE NEXT EIGHTEEN MONTHS ALL OF US, ORDINARY PEOPLE AND LAWMAKERS SHOULD STOP ACTING LIKE DEMOCRATS AND REPUBLICANS, CONSERVATIVES OR LIBERALS AND ACT LIKE AMERICANS. WE NEED A SENSE OF NATIONAL PURPOSE AND RESOLVE. THE GOOD OF OUR COUNTRY AND THE SURVIVAL OF OUR ECONOMIC SYSTEM ARE AT STAKE.”
Moses and DeVine Intervention
The Aiken Standard published on February 18, 2009, still another letter from Moses Mims who as usual extolled the countless virtues of the Obama administration. He also exaggerated approval ratings for President Obama and his plans. While Mims says that Obama and his plans enjoy a 76% favorable rating, Rasmussen Reports Obama had 60% approval as of February 18. As for his plans, some of which are nebulous, only 38% believe the so-called stimulus bill will help.
As is customary for all those of the liberal left, Mims indulges himself in obligatory bad-mouthing of Republicans and the Bush administration, which he blames for our current economic problems. This he and his like minded comrades do with the full support of main stream media despite the fact that much of the problem can be traced back to potentially well meaning (I give the benefit of a doubt), but irresponsible pressure on banks to give mortgages to individuals who could not afford them. From that point we started down a slippery slope that may never end.
This pressure for risky loans came during the terms of Presidents Carter and Clinton
Mr. Mims also takes a swipe at Rush Limbaugh who understandably is hated by the left because he graphically exposes its dubious plans and deceitful practices to the light of day. I don’t listen to Rush everyday and sometimes I don’t agree with him, but thank goodness he is out there exercising his free speech rights just as Mr. Mims does.
Mr. Mims prejudice about the rights of a private citizen to exercise free speech gives fair warning to those who have genuine fears about where our great country is headed. Soon we will see the "Fairness" Doctrine re-instated or a similar bill to hush Rush and all other citizens who share information or opinions which differ from the policies of the Obama administration.
The Aiken Standard on February 18 also published a guest column by Jack DeVine who has opinions that differ from those of Mr. Mims. DeVine reviews the Obama record after one month in office and discusses his take on The Good and The Not So Good.
Under the Good category he praises President Obama’s active leadership, his looking forward, not back and his assembling of a talented and solid team.
On the Not so Good side he criticized those who continue to dis George Bush., saying it was time to be honest and respectful to our former President. Mr. DeVine said the outsourcing of the stimulus package to the congress was a huge blunder and the closing of Guantanamo
I applaud the Aiken Standard for publishing the guest column from Jack Devine and the Moses Mims letter. I have lived in several countries where the press is closely controlled and citizens who speak or write opinions that differ from those of their government do so at their own risk.
I urge citizens of our great country, of every political persuasion, to write to their elected representatives and demand that they protect our free speech rights. The “Fairness” Doctrine re-instatement or something similar but cleverly disguised must never be approved.
UPDATE; Peach made excellent comments to this post and mentioned Senator DeMints article in The Augusta Chronicle today. Go here .
UPDATE; Peach made excellent comments to this post and mentioned Senator DeMints article in The Augusta Chronicle today. Go here .
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Battling for better education
The following letter from Jet Beckum was published in the Aiken Standard on February 11.
"I recently read a book by Richard Neely (a Supreme Court justice of West Virginia) entitled "Tragedies of Our Own Making." In Mr. Neely's book he points out the reasons for the bankruptcy of this nation. However at the time it was written just a few states were in financial trouble, now it is the entire nation. Mr. Neely said the choices we as citizens make determine the financial problems we are currently witnessing.
His conclusion, the colossal medical cost and expensive health insurance along with crime in the streets, failure of the education system, have stressed the financial strength of our nation. The main culprit is the breakup of the American family.
For example the number of one-parent households has greatly increased in the last 30 years. According, to Mr. Neely, although there are advocates for one-parent family in some circumstances such as cruel or violent marriages the fact is divorce is a main cause of poverty in this nation. In general one parent families' children will have more educational problems more problems with crime related activities. Divorces force more financial burdens on society therefore creating more taxpayer funded programs. Government solutions to family problems are substantially more expensive than private family solution because the infamous inefficiency of governmental bureaucracy.
Mr. Neely points out every time we as private citizens failed to care for our children's needs and ask the government to provide them; we not only put our children at risk but we add to the financial downfall of this country.
Most educators when asked for solutions to our dismal graduation rates in our public high schools often respond with "more money" although we spent far more money on education than do many foreign countries and provide less educated children. Many educators also think only the the poor students are failing in our schools. Mr. Neely says no. Many one-parent children come from affluent communities but have all of the problems associated with the poverty of inner-city children.
America is the best in the world educating adults, most foreign countries send their brightest students here for higher education, however, we are one of the world's worst at educating children. Japan for example provides much more proficient students in high school than does the U.S. at less cost. Mr. Neely attributes this to Japan's strong family tradition. The mother in the Japanese family with children stays at home and acts to facilitate their children's education. It is no wonder that America's home schools are providing some of best educated students in the country.
A few days ago I read in the Aiken Standard that the Aiken Board of Education was inviting the public to a discussion on the future of education. A friend and I attended, to my disappointment, the group for discussion was formed in a semi-circle with its back to the public, they seem to be studying ED 101, but I could not hear since their voices were low with their backs facing us. The group was made up of mostly former school educators and insiders. As I walked to my truck to go home, I wondered about South Carolina's graduation rate of 53.7 percent and I wondered how much longer public taxpayers will put up with public education.
Jet Beckum
Aiken"
"I recently read a book by Richard Neely (a Supreme Court justice of West Virginia) entitled "Tragedies of Our Own Making." In Mr. Neely's book he points out the reasons for the bankruptcy of this nation. However at the time it was written just a few states were in financial trouble, now it is the entire nation. Mr. Neely said the choices we as citizens make determine the financial problems we are currently witnessing.
His conclusion, the colossal medical cost and expensive health insurance along with crime in the streets, failure of the education system, have stressed the financial strength of our nation. The main culprit is the breakup of the American family.
For example the number of one-parent households has greatly increased in the last 30 years. According, to Mr. Neely, although there are advocates for one-parent family in some circumstances such as cruel or violent marriages the fact is divorce is a main cause of poverty in this nation. In general one parent families' children will have more educational problems more problems with crime related activities. Divorces force more financial burdens on society therefore creating more taxpayer funded programs. Government solutions to family problems are substantially more expensive than private family solution because the infamous inefficiency of governmental bureaucracy.
Mr. Neely points out every time we as private citizens failed to care for our children's needs and ask the government to provide them; we not only put our children at risk but we add to the financial downfall of this country.
Most educators when asked for solutions to our dismal graduation rates in our public high schools often respond with "more money" although we spent far more money on education than do many foreign countries and provide less educated children. Many educators also think only the the poor students are failing in our schools. Mr. Neely says no. Many one-parent children come from affluent communities but have all of the problems associated with the poverty of inner-city children.
America is the best in the world educating adults, most foreign countries send their brightest students here for higher education, however, we are one of the world's worst at educating children. Japan for example provides much more proficient students in high school than does the U.S. at less cost. Mr. Neely attributes this to Japan's strong family tradition. The mother in the Japanese family with children stays at home and acts to facilitate their children's education. It is no wonder that America's home schools are providing some of best educated students in the country.
A few days ago I read in the Aiken Standard that the Aiken Board of Education was inviting the public to a discussion on the future of education. A friend and I attended, to my disappointment, the group for discussion was formed in a semi-circle with its back to the public, they seem to be studying ED 101, but I could not hear since their voices were low with their backs facing us. The group was made up of mostly former school educators and insiders. As I walked to my truck to go home, I wondered about South Carolina's graduation rate of 53.7 percent and I wondered how much longer public taxpayers will put up with public education.
Jet Beckum
Aiken"
Saturday, February 7, 2009
CITY COUNCIL MEETING - Feb 9, 2009
AIKEN HORIZONS 2009 – Last week-end the City Council met for its annual seminar on city issues. I thought I might update residents on some of the issues we discussed. Of most importance is that the City of Aiken recognizes the need to conserve resources; no new programs such as the proposed City Hall expansion; delays in filling vacant positions; evaluating changes in trash/re-cycling schedules and a few more. Major revenues are on target for the first six months of the year, but will decrease thereafter. Revenues related to new growth (permits and planning) and police fines are about 75% of last year. Interest revenue is 35% of last year.
Kim Abney, our new Finance Director, is encouraging water users to pay their bills on-line. Bills can be sent by email and payments made by bank draft saving postage costs. You are notified by email before any withdrawals from you bank.
The Planning Department made an interesting presentation on Aging in Aiken – Enhancing Livability. The City of Aiken has a higher percentage of citizens who are 55 and older compared to the nation’s average (33.3% for Aiken vs. 21.3% nationwide). Our median age is 41.3. Council discussed the creation of an Advisory Committee which would help determine needs, develop plans of action, promote communication and coordination, and advise the City Council on senior issues. The issues would include mobility, pedestrian safety, accessibility to services, public safety, housing design, and recreation.
AIKEN WEBSITE UPDATE – The city’s web site (www.aiken.net) can be a valuable tool for residents needing information about the city. In 2008 there were over 400,000 visitors. Some were looking for jobs while others researched business information, zoning ordinances, and current events within the city. Check it out!
ADPS HIGHWAY ENFORCEMENT SUCCESSES – Public Safety Chief Pete Frommer’s special traffic enforcement officers, CPL Chris Carter and PSO Jason Griffin were very active in 2008. Their special units, Highway Enforcement of Aggressive Traffic (HEAT) issued 3,963 traffic citations, 819 warning tickets, and made 126 criminal arrests. Not coincidentally, their work, with the rest of ADPS, saw zero fatal collisions – down from six traffic fatalities in 2007. Our HEAT term looks for alcohol impaired drivers, seat belt violations, and any aggressive driving behaviors that contribute to collisions. Their work especially in cooperation with out Patrol Division and the rest of ADPS has made out city streets much safer to drive.
RECOGNITION OF FORMER BOARD/COMMISSION MEMBERS – At our Council meeting, we will recognize four individuals who have served on various Boards and Commissions. Mary Ellen Kripner (Arts Commission), Bernice Sanders (Accommodations Tax Committee), Stephen Anaclerio (Design Review Board), and Michael McGhee (Community Development Board) deserve our thanks for a job well done.
CITY COUNCIL GOALS 2009-2010 – Council will adopt the goals we set during the Horizons Session, mentioned earlier in this message. There were fourteen goals only a few which will be mentioned:
1. Develop an overall strategy for solving the Sand River storm drainage problems in Hitchcock Woods. This would include development of a joint agreement with the Woods, SCDOT, and Aiken County concerning solutions and funding.
2. Begin construction of the Dougherty Road connector to Publix Center.
3. In Edgewood, begin construction of new homes, and continue purchasing property in Toole Hill and Pinecrest.
4. Identify and prioritize capital projects as a part of implementing the Aiken Parks Recreation and Tourism Master Plan.
5. Implement strategies to redevelop and stabilize Crosland Park.
6. Organize and prepare for the City’s 175th anniversary celebration in 2010.
7. Establish a citizen task force to study issues affecting Aiken’s seniors to determine what measures could be taken to improve and preserve their quality of life.
8. Identify capital improvement projects that would be appropriate for inclusion on the next Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) list, anticipated to be voted upon in November 2010.
9. Expand the City Wellness Initiative into the public domain through an educational program and encourage our citizens toward better public health in Aiken.
There are a few others dealing with such issues as a youth activity center, future missions of the Savannah River Site, the Character First Program, and an evaluation of sustainability-focused activities.
OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA – Our agenda is rather light this week with mostly routine items. We have Second and final reading on leasing property on Price Avenue for Aiken Compounding Pharmacy Building. First Readings on ordinances to modify loans to the Aiken Corporation, an Ordinance to Amend the York Street Water Tower Attachment Lease Agreement (cell towers), and a resolution supporting 175th Celebration Committee.
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA – Keep in mind that City Council agendas are available on line. The complete agenda includes supporting documents that we review to determine a course of action. The link for Monday’s City Council agenda is http://www.aiken.net/weblink7/docview.aspx?id=100059.
Kim Abney, our new Finance Director, is encouraging water users to pay their bills on-line. Bills can be sent by email and payments made by bank draft saving postage costs. You are notified by email before any withdrawals from you bank.
The Planning Department made an interesting presentation on Aging in Aiken – Enhancing Livability. The City of Aiken has a higher percentage of citizens who are 55 and older compared to the nation’s average (33.3% for Aiken vs. 21.3% nationwide). Our median age is 41.3. Council discussed the creation of an Advisory Committee which would help determine needs, develop plans of action, promote communication and coordination, and advise the City Council on senior issues. The issues would include mobility, pedestrian safety, accessibility to services, public safety, housing design, and recreation.
AIKEN WEBSITE UPDATE – The city’s web site (www.aiken.net) can be a valuable tool for residents needing information about the city. In 2008 there were over 400,000 visitors. Some were looking for jobs while others researched business information, zoning ordinances, and current events within the city. Check it out!
ADPS HIGHWAY ENFORCEMENT SUCCESSES – Public Safety Chief Pete Frommer’s special traffic enforcement officers, CPL Chris Carter and PSO Jason Griffin were very active in 2008. Their special units, Highway Enforcement of Aggressive Traffic (HEAT) issued 3,963 traffic citations, 819 warning tickets, and made 126 criminal arrests. Not coincidentally, their work, with the rest of ADPS, saw zero fatal collisions – down from six traffic fatalities in 2007. Our HEAT term looks for alcohol impaired drivers, seat belt violations, and any aggressive driving behaviors that contribute to collisions. Their work especially in cooperation with out Patrol Division and the rest of ADPS has made out city streets much safer to drive.
RECOGNITION OF FORMER BOARD/COMMISSION MEMBERS – At our Council meeting, we will recognize four individuals who have served on various Boards and Commissions. Mary Ellen Kripner (Arts Commission), Bernice Sanders (Accommodations Tax Committee), Stephen Anaclerio (Design Review Board), and Michael McGhee (Community Development Board) deserve our thanks for a job well done.
CITY COUNCIL GOALS 2009-2010 – Council will adopt the goals we set during the Horizons Session, mentioned earlier in this message. There were fourteen goals only a few which will be mentioned:
1. Develop an overall strategy for solving the Sand River storm drainage problems in Hitchcock Woods. This would include development of a joint agreement with the Woods, SCDOT, and Aiken County concerning solutions and funding.
2. Begin construction of the Dougherty Road connector to Publix Center.
3. In Edgewood, begin construction of new homes, and continue purchasing property in Toole Hill and Pinecrest.
4. Identify and prioritize capital projects as a part of implementing the Aiken Parks Recreation and Tourism Master Plan.
5. Implement strategies to redevelop and stabilize Crosland Park.
6. Organize and prepare for the City’s 175th anniversary celebration in 2010.
7. Establish a citizen task force to study issues affecting Aiken’s seniors to determine what measures could be taken to improve and preserve their quality of life.
8. Identify capital improvement projects that would be appropriate for inclusion on the next Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) list, anticipated to be voted upon in November 2010.
9. Expand the City Wellness Initiative into the public domain through an educational program and encourage our citizens toward better public health in Aiken.
There are a few others dealing with such issues as a youth activity center, future missions of the Savannah River Site, the Character First Program, and an evaluation of sustainability-focused activities.
OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA – Our agenda is rather light this week with mostly routine items. We have Second and final reading on leasing property on Price Avenue for Aiken Compounding Pharmacy Building. First Readings on ordinances to modify loans to the Aiken Corporation, an Ordinance to Amend the York Street Water Tower Attachment Lease Agreement (cell towers), and a resolution supporting 175th Celebration Committee.
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA – Keep in mind that City Council agendas are available on line. The complete agenda includes supporting documents that we review to determine a course of action. The link for Monday’s City Council agenda is http://www.aiken.net/weblink7/docview.aspx?id=100059.
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