Draytons can fight distribution

Posted by sethook on August 15, 2008 at 1:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)

And the money grab begins.

Posted by flowergirl on August 15, 2008 at 1:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm surprised that it took this long.

Posted by umakebrains on August 15, 2008 at 1:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

family is all fun until someone dies, then the true colors come out, why in the hell would adult children want to benefit from the death of thier so called father

Family is fine until sickness or death, give the money back to the people that donated. these people are star crazy, what have they done to deserve anything get dna find out he doesn't have any children.

Posted by lemonhead on August 15, 2008 at 4:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)

the money should go to the imediate family members,that means the ones that were living with him in his house,if the other kids are grown and not living at home they shouldnt get anything unless the wife gives it to them,if the dad took care of them after they moved out well that was a gift for them,time to stand on their own two feet and make their own life not take from others

Posted by justmyview on August 15, 2008 at 6:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Someone please explain to me why these adult children feel that they are entitled to anything? Seems sad and pathetic.

Posted by moonpie on August 15, 2008 at 6:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

WOW! Remember this isn't a new event. They started this as soon as the money came pouring in. And their doing this now because this portion will be peanuts compared to what the big lawsuit pays out. They know if they can get on board now they won't have a fight when the big one pays out.
Death brings out the best in a family!
Lemonhead is right, if the will, (if there was a will), gives everything to the wife then the kids have no dog in this hunt.

Posted by dizzy on August 15, 2008 at 6:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Tell me - How is all this fighting over material issues (money) going to bring him back? Cherish the days you have folks, hug the ones you love and enjoy your day.

Posted by ChasCarolinaGirl on August 15, 2008 at 7:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

...and they wonder why people do not donate $$ as they used to? Its because of people like this. Money hungry. Forget that the Father died, where is the money! They were complaining about the $ before the father was even buried.

Losers!

Posted by theronce on August 15, 2008 at 7:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

464,000/2=232,000 wife/5 kids
232,000/2=116,000 lawyer/5 kids
116,000/5=23,200 share/kid
23,200-35%=15,080 share/kid after taxes?
I have no idea if I'm close with this or not, but it seems reasonable. Some people will fight over a nickel.

Posted by DoaMM on August 15, 2008 at 7:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

A judge should put the money in a trust fund and only allow the great-great-grandchildren of the deceased collect.

Sounds fair to me!

Posted by charleston1960 on August 15, 2008 at 7:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Pathetic, purely pathetic. But, it was expected. The children began their work to get theirs as soon as the donations flooded in. These children began to lay the foundation for this day within weeks of the aftermath of the fire. They obtained lawyers and went to the media saying implying: 'How an I going to live without my fathers money?', hmmm, adults that can not survive with out their fathers paycheck. Perhaps they should stand on their own and work for their money, just like Earl did. The vice of greed displayed at its finest. They should check out Dante's Purgatory. I'm sure their father is very proud of them now.
In the 911 deaths, the families had to make a choice as to whether they wanted to sue for money or take the charitable contributions and move on. Perhaps this would be a fitting answer. If they want the charity money, they should have to sign an opt out of all lawsuit waiver. If they are going to sue, then they should have to opt out of the charity money. It worked for the 911 families, and it would work in this case.
Earl is resting in peace while the family wrestles for a piece.

Posted by ysillyme on August 15, 2008 at 7:39 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Ever wonder if all the money collected in black boots is ever properly accounted for? Greed is one of the seven deadly sins, I am sickened but not shocked these vulture kids are swooping in for the pickins (read James Brown's kids), just wish the $ collected for the families was not a cash cow for the self acclaimed disenfranchised.

Posted by jeff61 on August 15, 2008 at 7:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Put $5000 into an account and let these 5 fight over it for the next couple of years. Let's see how much money each of these greedy pigs will spend trying to get that 5000

Posted by lillycollette on August 15, 2008 at 8:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

http://www.charlestoncity.info/shared/do...
June 27, 2007
Firemen’s Fund Detailed
Mayor Joseph P. Riley, Jr. announced today that the South Carolina State Firemen’s Association Endowment, a 501(c) (3) organization, will begin accepting donations honoring the 9 fallen firefighters. There are organizations whose charters require that charitable contributions be directed through a 501 (c) (3) organization. Mayor Riley said “This statewide organization is ideally suited to receive such contributions and will work directly with the City to ensure that all funds donated are received by the -- beneficiaries -- of these fallen heroes.” Organizations and individuals wishing to contribute through the Association can do so by directing contributions as follows:
South Carolina State Firemen’s Association Endowment (Tax ID # 56-2254232)
(Charleston Firefighters)
South Carolina State Firefighter’s Association, Attention: James Bowie
P.O. Box 211725
Columbia, SC 29221
Mayor Riley asked that those who do not legally require tax deductibility, but wish to contribute do so through the city’s previously established fund. The address of this fund is as follows:
City of Charleston Firemen’s Fund
P.O. 304
Charleston, SC 29402
This fund and the Association’s Endowment will distribute all funds donated to the -- beneficiaries -- of the fallen firefighters.
Mayor Riley expressed his appreciation to Charleston’s Coastal Crisis Chaplaincy which, in addition to the ministry and counseling provided since the tragedy, had also previously agreed to receive initial 501(c) (3) contributions honoring the firefighters before the arrangements with the South Carolina Firemen’s Association Endowment could be made.
Mayor Riley said, “The Chaplaincy’s willingness to help in all ways has been tremendously helpful. With the fund being handled by the SCFA, the Chaplaincy will be able to concentrate on the critical ministry and counseling that they do.” Mayor Riley expressed his thanks to the thousands of people who have contributed to date in excess of $500,000 to the City fund for the -- beneficiaries -- of our heroes over the last week. Any citizen having a question on the City’s Firemen fund raising efforts can contact the Office of the CFO at 843-579-7529.
FOR MORE INFO: Barbara Vaughn, Director
Media Relations/Public Information
Phone: (843) 724-3746 Fax: (843) 724-3734
Email: vaughnb@ci.charleston.sc.us

Posted by keystome on August 15, 2008 at 8:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)

It's obvious that these grown children have one thing in mind, money.

Posted by lillycollette on August 15, 2008 at 8:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Seems as though it may have been set up for "beneficiaries".

Posted by ironhorse on August 15, 2008 at 8:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)

These greedy family members are taking money away from the "next" tragedy......at least from me. I will no longer be charitable when I remember this travesty.

But they don’t care, screw Mom, screw everyone that opened up their hearts and wallets to help.

Posted by ccfirefighterchick on August 15, 2008 at 8:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)

What annoys me most about this family is that his step-children from his first marriage are out begging for money.

Now, I am not saying that any of the five should be entitled to any money that the City collected for the families. But, the adult step-children from his first marriage??? The step-son with his widow, I could understand. (As did those that oversaw the distribution of state funds. He is a minor and his welfare was dependent upon Earl's pay.) But, ADULTS that are just greedy and trying to get their cut of this money.

Earl died over a year ago. He and eight of his "brothers" perished in a burning building and all that these people are concerned with is money. That sickens me!

Posted by karmann on August 15, 2008 at 8:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This does not surprise me at all. I'm glad I didn't participate. Just one more grief issue for the families to go through.

Posted by jeff61 on August 15, 2008 at 8:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

So, the question is "Who is a beneficiary"
My first guess would be those who were listed in a will would be considered a beneficiary to the estate but that may not include this money since it was "earned after death"??. In absences of a will it would be those listed in insurance policies and 401K plan beneficiary.

Who do you consider a beneficiary Lillycollette, I am asking and curious because you are in this field???

Posted by DoaMM on August 15, 2008 at 8:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

lillycollette wrote:
"Seems as though it may have been set up for "beneficiaries"."

Yep...when you sign on with EMS, the Fire Department, or a Police Department, you give the organization a name of a beneficiary in the case of your death while on duty. You can put as many names on there as you want. The money should only go to the beneficiaries, even if they are donations from an outside source.

Does Charleston City Fire not do this?

Posted by luckylady on August 15, 2008 at 8:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

First of all this is absolutely disgusting.

My opinion would be that the wife gets it all. Let her make the decision of sharing or not. If there is a will then the will should be the guiding force. Then let her decide if she wants to share with these grown children. By the time they get an answer the lawyers will have taken a huge portion. Let's all take notice - make a will - it may be the only thing that protects the people that you want to designate your money/property/belongings to in the event of your death. Or do what my sisters and I have always told our parents - spend it - have fun!!! We all work and can take care of ourselves.

Posted by Perspective on August 15, 2008 at 8:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Aren't almost all of the nine families suing everyone they can think of to get EVEN MORE money.... in my opinion all of them are trash.

I hope people with intelligence land on the jury. None should get another cent of their blood money.

Posted by ysillyme on August 15, 2008 at 8:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

someone opined that the real victims are the families of the next tragedy in our community, well said. My wallet will be tighter than a duck's arse I assure you.

Posted by drp7773 on August 15, 2008 at 8:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

And the saga continues, don't miss the next episode of As The Stomach Turns.....same bat station , same bat time.

Posted by lillycollette on August 15, 2008 at 8:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

IMHO, the funds at issue stemmed from work related death and beneficiaries should be decided under worker’s comp.

Posted by oldglory on August 15, 2008 at 8:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm curious. Doesn't SC have laws governing these types of situations? Was there a Last Will? Actually, in many states a Last Will is merely a directive to the Court allowing it to be aware of the decedent's intentions.

And in today's world of blended families, there are many vague people related to a situation. What is the issue with adult children vs. minor children. Children are children, now and forever. We don't shuck them like corn! Some are good children, some are bad children, but they are all children.

Just you all wait until your families have a death. You may be surprised as to what comes out of the woodwork.

Posted by abitskeptical on August 15, 2008 at 8:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

perspective...people with intelligence landing on a jury?....only if that's what the attorneys want.

Only in some cases do the attorneys on each side look for intelligent &/or educated folks in the jury pool.

There are some cases,such as this one, where more than likely they specifically will be avoiding the upper ranks of intelligence &/or education (one of these factors does not necessarily indicate the presence of the other).

Posted by lillycollette on August 15, 2008 at 9:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Posted by jeff61 on August 15, 2008 at 8:14 a.m.
Who do you consider a beneficiary Lillycollette, I am asking and curious because you are in this field???

No I am not in this field it is just a matter of common sense which judges and lawyers -- have a duty to know and therefore do know -- LOL on that one.

Posted by MsPiggy on August 15, 2008 at 9:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree with whoever said the wife should get it all.

I cannot even fathom what it must be like to be a widow. Many women in her situation have never worked a day in their life, never knew how to balance a checkbook, never knew how to check the oil in the car.

Granted, in today's generation, women are encouraged to know how to do those things without a man's help, in case one isn't around. But the couple of generations before me, that was just the norm.

UGH. That family just DISGUSTS me. Why in the hell should his step-children get a dime??

Oh wait, hold up.......The next thing I'm going to hear is the 2nd cousins wanting a piece of the $$

Give it ALL to the wife and let her decide. She deserves it. She's the one that's gotta pay the morgage, the bills, the car payment..EVERYTHING. She was left to pick up the pieces.

Posted by JC on August 15, 2008 at 9:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Great. Now the City is going to have to pay lawyers to fight these money grabbers. The intention was to "help the families", their current families, the people who their income help supported. What in the heck do stepchildren from a previous marriage have to do with it! Gezzzz. They should be ashamed of themselves; but they are obviously showing what they're made of. To the Cit of Charleston: Take it to trial. They would be hard pressed to find anyone in this county to give them one red cent!

Posted by hotchick on August 15, 2008 at 9:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The REAL lawsuit should be a class action on behalf of all of the people of the community who gave to the fund thinking that the poor families didn't have anything. With workers comp and the Firemans Fund, there was plenty of money. I'm not saying the families didn't suffer and aren't still suffering, but throwing money at them won't bring back their loved ones. Next time something like this happens, I think the community will ask some important questions before reaching into their pocket. Questions like - Isn't the family entitled to benefits? Who decides who gets the money? This whole thing has put the wrong light on the Sofa Super Store tragedy. Instead of remembering the firefighters and trying to avoid an incident in the future, we hear Sofa Super Store and think of the greedy relatives. Is that the legacy that you want your fireman to have? Shame on you!!

Posted by gooose53 on August 15, 2008 at 9:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

As soon as this accident happened money started to be the focus. I never gave a cent because of the money grabbing attitudes. When the first words out of a families mouth after losing a "loved one" is "someones going to pay for this", no money from me.

Posted by topix on August 15, 2008 at 9:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Let's not forget that the attorneys and courts played a big part of this ridiculous story. The attorneys egg it on and the judges keep their heads stuck in the sand like nothing's going on. Somebody, somewhere along the way to this decision should have said "Get out of my courtroom with this crap!"

Posted by IPFreely on August 15, 2008 at 9:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Wow that sickens me. I am an ems worker and if my children ever did that I would come back and haunt them. I never read where they miss their father, only their money. I can't belive all the families involved in law suits against everyone ie furniure manufacture etc. It just shows what greedy creatures they have become. I do mourn the loss of the 9 who gave their lives and do feel bad for their families, but why the the greed. Shame on you all for making this tragic event that much more tragic and if this ever happens again and I pray it never does, but do you think anyone would be willing to donate after witnessing all the greed.

Posted by ptmama73 on August 15, 2008 at 9:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

theronce had the figures close to accurate.
Each "child" will receive a whopping 15K - for now.

This whole abomination is nothing more than a play to get added to the lawsuits for the "REAL" money.

I just want to know how these jackasses can look in the mirror...thinking about their greed makes me want to hurl.

Hotchick, I agree! I wish that we, who donated, could file a class action against the greedy families.

Posted by coolfreaknbeans on August 15, 2008 at 10:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree the wife should get it all and decide who gets what.That would simplify it.And to the adult children who seem as if they depended on his money....put on your fn big boy pants and support yourself.

Posted by hotchick on August 15, 2008 at 10:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Here's an idea. If the city hasn't distributed the funds yet from the community donations, perhaps they should divide the funds by 9 and then use the each portion of funds first to pay for the attorneys and court costs that they are having to endure for each family. THEN, if there are any funds left over after the lawsuits, let it be distributed to the families. Perhaps that would be a deterant to these lawsuits. If not, then the families who caused the most trouble would get exactly what they deserve - nothing.

Posted by usna04 on August 15, 2008 at 10:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I want my money back. These people can lick the dog crap off the bottom of my shoe as far as I'm concerned.

Posted by Marianne0558 on August 15, 2008 at 10:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree usna04. I want my money back too! I donated my hard earned money, when sometimes I couldn't even afford to eat a decent meal, so that these families could use the money for GOOD, not to be money-grubbing little leeches.
This is disgusting.

Honestly, it makes me reluctant to donate any money in the future.

Posted by usna04 on August 15, 2008 at 10:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

For you greedy families, you disgust me. Seriously, you really kind of are the scum of the earth and the talk of the town. Congratulations on being the biggest fools in Charleston. I hope you're happy after you get all our hard earned money, because I seriously doubt no one is going to ever want to be associated with you after this crap you're trying to pull. Have some honor and respect for your own flesh and blood.

Posted by ticket3477 on August 15, 2008 at 10:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

" The city handled nearly all the money and decided last year that it would be distributed based on decisions by the state Workers' Compensation Commission. The commission decides who was dependant financially on a deceased worker in order to award workers' compensation benefits. "

...I wish someone could explain to me how his GROWN children from a previous marriage are financially dependant on him...How do they even have a case.

But really...is anyone that surprised that these people are doing this...its called feeding a stereotype.

Posted by prosperous_hb on August 15, 2008 at 10:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Was any of his adult kids part of Mr. Drayton's life?

Posted by Marianne0558 on August 15, 2008 at 10:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Well donating didn't cause me to be without a decent meal at home...
I consider not having a decent meal as not eating meat with dinner.. hehe

But still, it aggravates me to no end that people pull money out of their pockets in a time of supposed crisis to help these families out then they basically poop on all of our hard work and togetherness.

Is it possible for the community to get together and sue the Drayton's for our money back? haha (I joke).

Posted by usna04 on August 15, 2008 at 10:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Haha. Marianne, I thought about the same thing. I donated my money for a good cause, not for these pieces of trash. If I could get my money back, I would. It's just so disappointing when you feel and literally see a community as large as Charleston's come together in unity for a cause such as sad as this one, and these people just threw a wrench in the system with their greed.

Posted by Marianne0558 on August 15, 2008 at 10:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm pretty sure these "people" (I use the term loosely) were just as low-life prior to the tragic loss of Mr. Drayton.

I will use my hard-earned charity money to donate to someone who is THANKFUL for it from now on. Only charities that directly benefit children-not step children from previous marriages or grown money-grubbing children. Children that actually deserve and need it.

Posted by luckylady on August 15, 2008 at 10:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

If a tragedy such as this ever happens again - and I pray it doesn't , if you still want to donate money maybe it should just be sent directly to the family, i.e. wife or husband or dependant child (living at home and dependant on the deceased's income to live). Forget the grown children, they should be self-supporting, at least one would think. My God the greed is enough to make you sick. It's a gimme gimme attitude!!!

Posted by suec on August 15, 2008 at 10:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Can we get together a class action lawsuit to recover outr donations. I donated money to help peoeple who will now end up wealthier than me and are still wanting more.

I wanna sue to get my $50 back!

Posted by Marianne0558 on August 15, 2008 at 10:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

suec,
I think you would have to prove that you actually donated money-which would be a big problem to most of us who donated cash.

Posted by usna04 on August 15, 2008 at 11:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Well then they should either give the money directly to the immediate family who is hurting, or donate the money to a charity who is actually WORTHY of our donations. I'm with you suec. I should have gotten a receipt.

Posted by Marianne0558 on August 15, 2008 at 11:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Lesson learned.

I bet Mr. Drayton is ROLLING in his grave right now. How disrespectful to HIM as well as the other men who gave their lives.

Pieces of crap.

My family won't be left with crap when I die. They won't have anything to fight over. My children will be the only ones who EQUALLY benefit from anything I ever own.
I will add a clause that if anyone hires a lawyer to contest anything, they get squat and all their inheritances will be turned over to charity.

Posted by suec on August 15, 2008 at 11:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Good idea Marianne.

Posted by usna04 on August 15, 2008 at 11:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I hope my kids are well educated enough to get real jobs where they don't have to get greedy for money when I die.

Posted by jeff61 on August 15, 2008 at 11:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I would like to see anyone of these five money grubing "Children" come here and defend thier actions. I think they are being called exactly what they are "Children", who as adults, still cannot support themselves...So sad. Chances are the public was already supporting them.

Posted by Bones on August 15, 2008 at 11:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

On a slightly different track, give "his" portion of the money collected for his families benifit to his estate, then distribute it per his will. If no will exists, then take it to probate and fight it out there and then it will no longer be a public fiasco. Enough already of showing the ignorance and greed of (some) locals. This is nothing more than an internal family squabble being played out "Jerry Springer" style in the local paper for all to see. Same thing happened in my family after the patriarch died, and the lawyers and accountants got over half of the estate. They will fight this to the bitter end and get only a couple hundred bucks after the lawyer fee's, messing over the minor child who ACTUALLY needs the money.

Posted by abitskeptical on August 15, 2008 at 11:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Greed does not discriminate.

There are plenty of people who have upper level degrees, good jobs & good incomes who STILL act like Gollum (in the HOBBIT) when it comes to what they think should be their "inheritance".

Posted by Perspective on August 15, 2008 at 11:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

abitskeptical - you are right, no doubt they will pull from the lowest of intelligence on the jury pool for these cases

goose53 - I agree with you. I told many people there would be a knock down dirty "in the street" fight over the money being donated. I told them they should try and make themselves "feel better" by doing something besides throwing money in a bucket - at least they should have let the dust settle. Unfortunately, you had businesses egging it on by public donations and getting news time for it.

I discouraged my out of town mother from sending $100 check and she thanked me for it as the families started piling on the names to the lawsuits.

Unfortunately, it sounds a bit correct that the money might be considered part of the deceaseds' estates and might be subject to being probated unless, exactly where the money was going was decided when the fund was set up.

It all makes me sick and I hope there is karma for the families.

If you really want to help someone go cut their grass or something. Of course that would only last until you saw them drive up in their new Escalade while you were cutting their grass:)

Posted by GreenvilleGirl on August 15, 2008 at 12:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think the money should be distributed based upon the last tax return filed. If the children were legally claimed as dependents, they get part of the donation. If they weren't they get nothing. Easy enough!

The grown children would get nothing.

Posted by coolfreaknbeans on August 15, 2008 at 12:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Did any of you know that they were still raising money as recently as June?

Posted by Two_Sheds on August 15, 2008 at 12:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If I'm not mistaken, wasn't one of Drayton's kids in the paper last year whining about this, and he was a 38-year-old school bus driver? He's been on his own, and now he (and the other greedy P.O.S.s) is claiming that his Dad supported him, so he's entitled to some cash?

Personally, I would be EMBARRASSED to admit that I was 38 and still being supported by my dad!

As far as his other grown daughter saying that he supported her financially, it seems that she's between a rock and a hard place here, because she has to prove (presumably through tax records) that his monetary support was substantial enough to warrant her getting her peice of the pie.

But I'll bet y'all dollars to doughnuts that she never claimed any of his supposed "gifts" on her taxes, so now she's going to get into trouble for tax evasion or for filing false info on her taxes. I'd like to see her squirm her way out of this conundrum!

Posted by sadlady on August 15, 2008 at 12:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I totaly believe in Carma, and what the ADULT children are doing now will come back to them 3 fold. I am glad I did not give any money to this charity, what I gave were condolences and prayers, they will need them now more than ever. The immediate families are already going to be well compensated for their loved ones loss and that will be dictated by any beneficiary statements or wills that were made. Nothing to argue over. I pray that God will give Earl's Widow the strength she is going to need to get through this ordeal because she is going to have to deal with it for the next couple of years. As long as their are lawyers willing to feed off of these situations it will never change. These 5 people only have this chance because an ambulance chaser made it possible.

Posted by CaptPete on August 15, 2008 at 12:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

These are the same type people who claim injury from a tap in the rear. Low down bums.

Posted by usna04 on August 15, 2008 at 12:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Good Call Capt'n.

Posted by Two_Sheds on August 15, 2008 at 12:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Sadlady, I totally agree. Unfortunately, I DID give money to the "Charleston 9" fund. In retrospect, I NEVER would have given a single dime if I'd known that the money would potentially go to piece-of-crap adult, independent "kids" who are just trying to cash in on the "Tragedy Jackpot."

Not to sound racist (because I DON'T like the n-word), but it's from lowlife, money-grubbing people like this that the term "[n-word] rich" came into existence.

Posted by drp7773 on August 15, 2008 at 12:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Why not give most of the money donated to the fire dept and let them spend it as they see fit my guess is the Jerry Lewis foundation would make out well and maybe buy some needed things for the station. Give some money to the families directly effected that have kids under 18 living at home and no money to any families that have participated in the greedy lawsuits

Posted by jpeace on August 15, 2008 at 12:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This is a sad case.The poor widow of Mr. Drayton is probably staying on her face before God. These five children have been fighting her concerning money since the day her husband pass. They had no respect in regards of their father's death. Before he was buried, they had already started fighting Mrs. Drayton. Eventhough that money should be given to the wife, who depended solely on her husband support, I could understand the three natural children sueing, but not the two step children from the previous marriage. However, not even the three natural children should be entitled to the fund because they are not Mr. drayton's dependent nor did they depended on their father for support. This ruling came out of the Workers Comp case. They were excluded. But, if anything, if anyone has a right to sue, it should be the natural children of Mr. Drayton. In this case, if the two stepchildren could sue, then Mrs. Drayton's three children should also have a right to sue. You do not see her two adult children sueing for anything. Those children should really be ashame of themselves for degrading their father's name and they need to let things rest and try to find peace with themselves. They need God in their lives.

Posted by eatmorecollards on August 15, 2008 at 12:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm afraid I don't agree with most of the post about the distribution of the money. I think unless the wife is disabled or some other incapacity, that it should be devided by by the wife and his blood related children. The reason being that the wife may remarry and then who will get the benifits of the money that Firefigter Drayton paid for with his life?

Posted by Two_Sheds on August 15, 2008 at 12:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If Drayton's widow remarried, then the money goes with her and her dependent (as in UNDER 18!) son...period. And hopefully, she will have the foresight to have her new husband sign a prenup!

Whether she remarries or not, the grown, adult children have NO claim on that money. It is meant SOLELY to support his widow and minor son.

Posted by WhoCares on August 15, 2008 at 12:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Well I did get a receipt (for tax purposes) for my $100 donation. Now I want it back! Any attorney's out there who would like to set precedent by attempting to recoup the money I donated? I intended my donation only go to surviving beneficiaries (spouses and dependents under 18, living in the household or receiving court-ordered child support) who could be and were rightfully claimed on the firefighters' income tax returns. Any money that goes to anyone else I want returned! If others can produce receipts or other documentation to sufficiently convince the courts that they have legal standing, they can join me in filing my lawsuit as a class action.

Posted by Two_Sheds on August 15, 2008 at 1 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It seems that we could countersue for some kind of fraudulence, if the money goes anywhere other than where we were told it would go.

That's like collecting money for someone's kidney transplant, then finding out that they spent the money on a new car. Brings up the whole "WTF?!" kind of question.

Posted by justcrazyme on August 15, 2008 at 1:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think it is a shame people are like this. But every family has some. Mine included. But the money should go to the Widow and any "MINOR" children.

Posted by usna04 on August 15, 2008 at 1:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

WhoCares - if you have a receipt, I would definitely try to get your 100 bucks back. That's a new pair of baggy jeans right there.

Posted by MindBath on August 15, 2008 at 1:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

arch, How ON EARTH did I get lumped into that? Was that a typo or something?

Posted by usna04 on August 15, 2008 at 1:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

arch, I hope you're back for good. I love reading through your posts, whether you're being honest, asinine or sensible. You may want to have a word with the Pirate dude though. He's going a little nutters with all the mean emails meant for you. ...that is, if it really is you. ha!

Posted by MindBath on August 15, 2008 at 1:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

usna04, I would have said the same thing about arch had he not just lumped me in with an old nemesis of mine Gadsden.

I was getting ready to ponder when arch would reappear when that post came about. Methinks I will wait to see if this is the real arch who used to fight the good fight against the hard right.

Posted by Two_Sheds on August 15, 2008 at 1:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Archdude, on another site on which I used to post years ago, we called these multiple-personality posters "sock puppets." It would be a good idea to post IP addresses, in order to discourage said sock puppets.

The publicly-posted IP address would not give away one's identity, but it WOULD let other posters know if different IDs were coming from the same desktop. Good idea!

Posted by BPFROM843 on August 15, 2008 at 1:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

DAM WHY YALL PROTESTING IT NOW IM SURE YALL DONATED SOME MONEY TO THE FAMILIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
HELLO IN EVERY FUND RAISER THEY HAD THEY SAID THEY WERE RAISING MONEY FOR THE FAMILY SO WHY YALL MAD THAT THE FAMILY WANTS THE MONEY I DOUBT YALL WOULD BE MAD IF THIS WERE BILLY HUTCHINSONS FAMILY WHO IS ONE OF SEVERAL OF THE FIREFIGHTERS WHO FILED A LAWSUIT AGAINST THE CITY BUT I GUESS THAT IS A DIFFERENT SCENARIO

Posted by Two_Sheds on August 15, 2008 at 1:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Dang, dude, we're right here, so stop yelling. Since we seem to have touched a nerve with you, can we assume that you're one of the grown Drayton "kids"?

Posted by Marianne0558 on August 15, 2008 at 1:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

BPFROM843:

I would be just as mad if Hutchinson's adult former stepchildren were suing to get a piece of the pie too. And no, it's not because they're black as you are insinuating. It's because they are money-grubbers. I can say that based on their actions and nothing else.

Posted by jeff61 on August 15, 2008 at 1:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I seriously suspect many on here are not who they seem.
dealing and perhaps their mental condition..

LOL you can say that again....

Arch I am sorry to tell you but your friend and employee Elmer told everyone that you were Bi-Polar, a very server metal disorder if not properly treated.

Something about some of the people on this site does not pass the smell test. Could not agree more!!!!!

I will take that advice to heart Arch and from this point foward I will simply ignore several posters (Although not necessary the ones listed) for the reason Arch has gave.

Posted by usna04 on August 15, 2008 at 1:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

lol at Two Shedds!!!

Posted by usna04 on August 15, 2008 at 1:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

jeff 61, I like reading your posts too. Just thought I'd tell you!

Posted by Two_Sheds on August 15, 2008 at 1:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

You want "mentally unbalanced"? Just look at the recent rambling post by BPFROM843, LOL!

Posted by Marianne0558 on August 15, 2008 at 1:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Money does make people crazy, Two_Sheds.

Posted by usna04 on August 15, 2008 at 1:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

haha! yea, the all caps is a little much.

Posted by jeff61 on August 15, 2008 at 1:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Is that a good thing usna ????

Posted by usna04 on August 15, 2008 at 1:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

absolutely Jeff. :) You make me laugh harder then I need to be at work. And I agree with pretty much everything you say. I don't post much unless I have a lot of time on my hands, but I always try to read the comments by the main posters. You and CB make my day fly by.

Posted by Two_Sheds on August 15, 2008 at 1:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Maybe BPFROM843 thought that "all caps" meant "fully intact gold grill."

Posted by ChasCarolinaGirl on August 15, 2008 at 1:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

So should we start a petition to get our money back that we donated?? This is really pathetic. Trying to get money for their fathers death. :( Get a job children!

Posted by jeff61 on August 15, 2008 at 1:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

But yes, I do not agree with the lawsuit either and those people have been called out. But here we have adult "Children" and "Step-Children" trying to get a cut of money that was to go to the "Dependent wives and MINOR Chidlren" of these firefifighters. Not a bunch of freeloader Adults and I agree that anyone trying to defend that must be one of them.

Posted by Marianne0558 on August 15, 2008 at 1:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Jeff:
Correction: EX Step-children.
I wonder how long Mr. Drayton had been divorced from these leeches' mother?

Posted by ChasCarolinaGirl on August 15, 2008 at 1:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

BP ~ Im assuming you are black? Its usually the black people who call out racism first.

It just so happens to be a BLACK family suing ... I dont recall any other family members suing, let alone not immediate family members.

Call out your own race when they make themselves look stupid, not others ...

Posted by MindBath on August 15, 2008 at 1:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

arch, my posts during the feud were intended to throw cold water on a fire. I thought the crying baby youtube link would do it, but I don't think anyone even saw it. And harsh assessments made after were attempts to see who would rush to defense. Painfully transparent attempts, unfortunately.

Anyway, if you are you, and I will assume you are, you will find we are allied more often than not. We may disagree on details, but we will not have a personal problem. I have been civil with Gadsden as well, though he has resorted to similar tactics with me in the past (JUNIOR comes to mind). I have also had very civil discussions with him as well, even though we disagree on the issues normally.

Anyway, welcome back and don't let the far right bite!

Posted by usna04 on August 15, 2008 at 1:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

How can EX step children possibly think that they have any grounds to get any of the money? That has GOT to be the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard. As far as that goes, they have no ties to him at all. Whatsoever! There is no blood or legal bond between them. They're all neekumpoops.

Posted by Two_Sheds on August 15, 2008 at 1:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

In a land where someone can win millions by spilling hot coffee on his own crotch, it is not that far-fetched to think that grown, ex-step-children can get their cut.

Posted by usna04 on August 15, 2008 at 1:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ChasCarolinaGirl - What do you think BP stands for?!

Posted by eatmorecollards on August 15, 2008 at 1:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think the real problem here is that when people contributed they never thought donations would reach such high proportions. Consider this, if that money was invested and the proceeds split 9 ways, each family could receive around 20,000 dollars a year for ever.

Posted by jeff61 on August 15, 2008 at 1:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Your not kidding Tripsa,,,

We have Nurse Ratched, R. P. McMurphy, Dale Harding, Charley Cheswick, Billy Bibbit, Taber, Chief Bromden, Martini and the rest of nuts cases here...

Medication Time,,,Medication Time,,,Medication Time

Posted by Marianne0558 on August 15, 2008 at 1:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I always thought it stood for blood pressure? The gas station? Barf, Please.

Posted by usna04 on August 15, 2008 at 1:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I see what you're saying Two_Sheds, but honestly, how far can this go? If I was in the position of authority to decide whether they get the money or not, I would just look at them and laugh.

Posted by usna04 on August 15, 2008 at 1:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Barf, Please could possibly be it Marianne.

Posted by Two_Sheds on August 15, 2008 at 1:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

BP = Bastard Progeny?

Posted by ChasCarolinaGirl on August 15, 2008 at 1:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

USNA04 ~ Well, I could see that but I also am not one who assumes .. or at least I try not to. :-)

That comment just irked me, but I hate that the donations are being given to people who just want money. Its really pathetic.

I think that we should flood someone's phone lines bitching, but that is just my 2 cents as usual.

Posted by usna04 on August 15, 2008 at 1:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Two_Sheds!!!!

BP = Brown Poop?

yea..it was all I got.

Posted by follygirl on August 15, 2008 at 1:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This would be an embarassment to Mr Drayton. These people are adults, who need to support themselves. What would they have gotten if the man has passed away in his sleep? Nothing. This is a disgrace and makes people want to not give to anyone. I believe this money was intended to help with expenses, kids education and other reasonable expenses, not to support grown kids. GROW UP AND GET A LIFE you 5 adults.

Posted by Two_Sheds on August 15, 2008 at 1:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Of course, I meant "bastard" in the literal, illegitimate-child context. But read into it what you will.

ChasCarolinaGirl: don't give your two cents--they'll want THAT money too!

Posted by usna04 on August 15, 2008 at 1:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ChasCarolinaGirl - I say the same thing about assuming. It gets hard, especially on here and when you want to make light of someone as irksome as BP.

I would flood the phone line. I'm even up for a rally and picket signs.

Posted by usna04 on August 15, 2008 at 1:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It's very true though. At first, I felt like I gave my hard earned money to a good worthy cause. If I had any idea it would end up in the hands of these stupid 'adults', I never would have donated. It really and truly pisses me off.

Posted by Two_Sheds on August 15, 2008 at 2:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I've said it before, and I'll say it again: stupidity should be painful.

Posted by Marianne0558 on August 15, 2008 at 2:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"Kim Drayton, 40, testified she knew that Drayton did not help pay for the living expenses of his brothers or his mother and said he did not provide regular financial help to his adult children.

"There's no way he could have," she said, estimating her late husband's total gross income at about $46,000.

However, one of Drayton's daughters, Jacqueline Drayton Davis, 31, said her father often helped her pay rent, utilities, car payments and later her mortgage.

Another daughter, Shawntell Drayton, 33, said he helped pay her college loans, starting last year, and her rent. The third and youngest biological daughter, Jeanette, 24, said he provided regular support, to the point of stocking her apartment with groceries.

None of the daughters could document the support. All said Drayton usually gave them cash.

"Up until his death, my father was basically supporting me," Davis testified. "

Posted by Two_Sheds on August 15, 2008 at 2:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Did any of these "kids" claim the money he gave them on their taxes as gifts/extra income? Hell no, is my bet.

How far do they think $46,000 goes in this town anyway?! There's no way he could pay his own expenses and have that much left over each month.

Posted by WhoCares on August 15, 2008 at 2:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I thought that it was a woman who spilled hot coffee in HER crotch and sued???

Posted by Two_Sheds on August 15, 2008 at 2:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Woman, man--does it matter? Point is, being an idiot can be fairly lucrative.

Posted by JLWDALFAN on August 15, 2008 at 2:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

BP, why does race always have to pop up? It happens to be a black family that is money hungry, These adults should be ashamed of themselves. Sounds to me like they don't want to earn their own money.

Posted by JLWDALFAN on August 15, 2008 at 2:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

FREE RIDE!!!!!!! FREE RIDE!!!!!!! FREE RIDE!!!!!

Posted by ChasCarolinaGirl on August 15, 2008 at 2:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

LMAO Two Sheds! You are so right!!

Posted by Two_Sheds on August 15, 2008 at 2:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Speaking of stupidity: did any of these "kids" stop to think that they won't have anything left over after they pay their attorneys?

Posted by Marianne0558 on August 15, 2008 at 2:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Jeanette had been on unemployment for 07 and 08.... Living off the government is NOT a source of income. GET A JOB.

Posted by ChasCarolinaGirl on August 15, 2008 at 2:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

USNA04 ~ I agree w/ you completely!!

Posted by jeff61 on August 15, 2008 at 2:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Those sorry azz children, as I thought, the public was already supporting them.

Another daughter, Shawntell Drayton, 33, said he helped pay her college loans

Well hell with that fine college Education your late Daddy paid for you should have a good job by now..

What a bunch of no load looser who could not even pay rent or buy food..I guess he supported thier children also....all on 46,000 before taxes...That makes his death even more tragic... damm could that man strech a dollar....

Posted by jpeace on August 15, 2008 at 2:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Marianne0558, fact: Mr. Drayton has been divorced from his xwife since 1986. Mr. drayton made approx.46k yr and several of the childrens' income exceeds almost 75% more than what he made; that is if you include each child and their spouse's imcome together. So tell me, if this is not greed, what is it?

Posted by Marianne0558 on August 15, 2008 at 2:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

1986, eh?
So, for the last 22 years, these children were not even belonging to his family at all...
TWENTY-TWO YEARS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by ChasCarolinaGirl on August 15, 2008 at 2:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Poor Mr Drayton ... after having a family like this of free loaders, he was probably happy to leave them. Just not the way he had to.

If he was the type of humble person as he is described, he is probably rolling over in his grave w/ how these "children" are acting. He would probably be very ashamed!

Posted by coolfreaknbeans on August 15, 2008 at 2:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I was at the site of the fire shortly after the incident.At the time people were visiting and leaving momentos.I have never mentioned this before until now.Members of his family(not his wife) LITERALLY paced up and down the walk way and area trying to get interviewed,stopping at each camera and "man in a suit" with a mic.They were seeking someone to interview them over and over again.They actually approached one guy and they asked to be interviewed and he told them he had already interviewed them.It was the strangest thing I'd ever seen.I know people grieve differently and I'm trying my damn hardest not to be judgemental.But waterworks and collapsing started after the mic was live and cameras rolling.And here my friend and I avoided cameras and interviews.We heard them saying stuff like,"hey lets go over there,theres one..."Just plain weird.

Posted by jeff61 on August 15, 2008 at 2:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

All I can say to these Adult children, It is high time you start supporting your self, on your own,, The public donatations are for who they where attended. Stay away from these Public Funds and Public Support. Bunch of sorry azz looser... yes 22 years is a long time to have no legal connenction to the man...

Posted by jpeace on August 15, 2008 at 2:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Yes, 22years. And the bus driver stepson, he crying for his stepdaddy's hat.He needs to go and apply for a firefighters postion so that he may be able to own his own.....HAT! What is wrong with him. Him and his wife income is well over what Mr. Drayton made yrly. This is a sad case. As far as I am concern, the two step children should no longer be considered as step because Mr. Drayton divorce their mother. If anything, because Mr. Drayton remarried, his current wife and her children should have a right to be considered as the stepchildren only.

Posted by charleston1960 on August 15, 2008 at 2:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

People, think real hard and try to remember: Did Mr. Drayton ever help you with a meal or anything closely (or not so closely) resembling a financial assistance. Maybe he gave you some money for a parking meter because you did not have it. Maybe you where short on change in a grocery store and you depended on him to help you buy the food you had in your cart Think hard. Because, if he did assist you financially in anyway, get a lawyer, you too may be eligible for a slice of the pie.
Earl is resting in peace while his family wrestles for a piece!

Posted by ChasCarolinaGirl on August 15, 2008 at 2:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Good one Charleston1960! Its really pathetic, isn't it?

I feel badly for him, even though he isn't here any longer. It seems like his family just used him and that is all they saw him as. It really is sad.

Posted by SCPDBLUE on August 15, 2008 at 2:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

GREED,Nothing but GREED

Posted by ChasCarolinaGirl on August 15, 2008 at 3:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Who would we even call to protest this? Even if it didn't work, but just to give our opinions to so that when they realize that this decision can have a major effect on future donations?? Does anyone know?

Posted by jeff61 on August 15, 2008 at 3:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Do you really think this bunch of money grubing looser care.. They used the man while he was alive and now they are trying to use him in death. Do you think people like this would care?

Posted by ChasCarolinaGirl on August 15, 2008 at 3:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Okay .. I just called the City Attorneys office ... Anyone interested in what was suggested???

Posted by jeff61 on August 15, 2008 at 3:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Yes I am

Posted by coolfreaknbeans on August 15, 2008 at 3:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Do tell......

Posted by ChasCarolinaGirl on August 15, 2008 at 3:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This is not from at attorney .. Im still waiting on the call back from him but we need to protest through media and radio outlets. Just a huge burst of protest so that everyone knows where we all stand b/c we donated money. We should have some say in this. We donated the money for the immediate families ... this is obsurd and we need to let as many people know about it as possible!

Posted by jeff61 on August 15, 2008 at 3:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Well out with it!!!!

Posted by ashleyatwork on August 15, 2008 at 3:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Who should get your money if you die and your kids are all over 18? Who should get your house? I want my biological children to have my things.. not another womans child just because I married her ex husband and her kid became my step kid. The step kid has both parents living.

Posted by ChasCarolinaGirl on August 15, 2008 at 3:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Okay .. just called News 4, and they want people who are willing to go on camera. :) You can call Gia or ask for any of the producers at 849-3574.

So, call away.

I called Channel 5 and they will have where people can call in with their issues against it.

Posted by Marianne0558 on August 15, 2008 at 3:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ashleyatwork:
If I die, my children will inherit my belongings, whether they are under 18, or if they are 70. Now, if something happened to me tragically and the town took it upon themselves to donate money to my family to help with expenses of living, I would expect that to go to my husband. It would be up to him to disperse it to any adult children I have. If my children were under 18, I would expect that donated money to go towards their college, rent, and other necessities.

Posted by jeff61 on August 15, 2008 at 3:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hell just have the P&C publish the comments made here

Posted by ChasCarolinaGirl on August 15, 2008 at 3:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Oh and New 4 is very interested in everyone's opinions and said that they will be really interested in pursuing this further!

Posted by Marianne0558 on August 15, 2008 at 3:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ChasCarolinaGirl,
Just tell me where and what time. Please make scheduled protests between office hours! hah!
I don't want to be on camera, but I do want to protest this money going to people who don't deserve it.

Posted by ChasCarolinaGirl on August 15, 2008 at 3:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Yes, but not everyone reads the newspaper. We need to get this out b/c Im sure we aren't the only ones who are against this.

Posted by Marianne0558 on August 15, 2008 at 3:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Oh you KNOW Dot Scott and her NAACPeeps are going to try to bring us down and make us look like racists. Just be prepared for the backlash.

Posted by jeff61 on August 15, 2008 at 3:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Copy and paste all the comments made here ChasCarGirl and e-mail them to Ch 4.

Marine,

and you would have a will that would indicate your wishes correct. Does not appear to be the case here although I think the Police and Fire Dept and other professions should make that a requiement and part of the HR package..

Posted by ChasCarolinaGirl on August 15, 2008 at 3:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If everyone is serious about all of this, I dare you to take how you feel to the media yourself. I did, just havent gotten on camera yet. If its only me on camera, that will hardly get anyones attention. Well, not the in the way Im wanting to. :) lol

The more the merrier!!!

Posted by Marianne0558 on August 15, 2008 at 3:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

30-something year old EX stepchildren deserve SQUAT! They are already living off my tax money, why should they get my donated monies as well?

Maybe I picked the wrong profession. I should have gotten a MCJOB and hand a handful of babies to make me some money.

Posted by Marianne0558 on August 15, 2008 at 3:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

(No offense to those of you with McJobs-the term is in the webster dictionary too)

Posted by Marianne0558 on August 15, 2008 at 3:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

*hand a handful of babies = had a handful of babies*

Posted by Marianne0558 on August 15, 2008 at 3:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ChasCarolinaGirl:
The only reason I wouldn't want to be on camera is I don't want to experience any personal vendettas. No one needs to know my face. I will gladly express my anger as long as cameras are not on my face. I have children, afterall.

Posted by jpeace on August 15, 2008 at 3:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Marianne0558, lets just forget about any so call racist comments that have been made. I am black and I do not allow comments concerning race whether it is coming from the same race or not dictate me and where I am going in life. It does not matter the race, people from all races goes through situations like this. The most important thing is how you feel concerning this case. Please leave race and organizations out for peace sake. You have a right to be concern about were the money goes.

Posted by Marianne0558 on August 15, 2008 at 3:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)

jpeace,
I only said this because of one person's statement regarding our outrage and I will quote it and my response to it for your viewing pleasure.
"Posted by BPFROM843 on August 15, 2008 at 1:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

DAM WHY YALL PROTESTING IT NOW IM SURE YALL DONATED SOME MONEY TO THE FAMILIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
HELLO IN EVERY FUND RAISER THEY HAD THEY SAID THEY WERE RAISING MONEY FOR THE FAMILY SO WHY YALL MAD THAT THE FAMILY WANTS THE MONEY I DOUBT YALL WOULD BE MAD IF THIS WERE BILLY HUTCHINSONS FAMILY WHO IS ONE OF SEVERAL OF THE FIREFIGHTERS WHO FILED A LAWSUIT AGAINST THE CITY BUT I GUESS THAT IS A DIFFERENT SCENARIO"
"
Posted by Marianne0558 on August 15, 2008 at 1:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

BPFROM843:

I would be just as mad if Hutchinson's adult former stepchildren were suing to get a piece of the pie too. And no, it's not because they're black as you are insinuating. It's because they are money-grubbers. I can say that based on their actions and nothing else."

Posted by jpeace on August 15, 2008 at 3:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Marianne0558, I am not saying this because they are black. Regardless of color, they are people with no class, no respect for thier father's wife and they should be ashame of themselves. If it were the Hutchinsons, I would of felt the same way. When it comes to me I see no color, I see who you are as a person. I am all about peace, thats all.

Posted by Marianne0558 on August 15, 2008 at 3:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I wasn't trying to insinuate that you were making comments based on their color.
I thought you were saying that about me.

Let's just be honest. SOMEONE will be calling the NAACP. Sadly, it's a fact.

Posted by jpeace on August 15, 2008 at 4:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

marianne0558, I do not believe that anyone would call the NAACP. But, if they do, this case is not based on racism. This case is totally based on who should benefit from this fund. I would tell NAACP this myself. And no, I was not saying anything about you. Only thing I saying is because they feel that this is racism, I feel that you did not have to go as far a saying, " NAACPPeeps". If you want to be real, think about it. You know that "peeps" is a term that the black race uses, not all but a lot of black folks. And by you saying that, it may come across to black folks as being a racist. Now, I do not know you, but that would have been my first impression of you; one of racist. But again, I do not know you and will not sit in judgement of you. But most of the time, you are judged by what you say. We as a people of all race must get to a place were you can not react on every thing a person says or so. If we do, we will find oursleves angry all the time and sometimes find ourselves in situations were we hurt ourselves or even others.

Posted by Marianne0558 on August 15, 2008 at 4:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Ok well since you thought that about my use of the word "peeps," let me clarify for you and everyone else (including myself):

I use the word "Peeps" all the time, in referring to people in general. Peeps is short for people. I'm white. I didn't think that certain words belonged to any group of people.
It could be because my sister was basically my mother and she listened to rap music? *gasp!*
I happen to love rap music as well. Maybe the terms just stick in my head.
I also love country music and everything in between. I say "yall" too.

Posted by spacewalker on August 15, 2008 at 4:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

All of you on this site talk all that smack about how you want your money back,but now that the media wants to give you the attention to let your voice be heard, you get scared. What a bunch of hipocritical wimps!

Posted by jpeace on August 15, 2008 at 4:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Marrianne, okays lets just move on. Everything is lovely and may God bless you. It was nice talking to you

Posted by GG on August 15, 2008 at 4:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

In every family there are the VULTURES that swoop in during the death of loved ones. Maybe they know they can't get any money but it doesn't stop them from trying to get something out of the situation.

I am sure you all know who they have been in your families. In my family it was a sister-in-law and her family who broke into the deceased grandmother's home and stole all her handmade quilts and linens!

These ADULTS are typical of the vultures that have nothing but greed in their hearts.

So I say "PLUCK 'EM." HA!

Posted by jeff61 on August 15, 2008 at 4:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I beleive the P&C printed some posters comments on a story not long ago. Did nthey get those peoples permisson??????

Posted by ChasCarolinaGirl on August 15, 2008 at 4:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree w/ not putting my face on camera either. I have a family and if these people are willing to go all out to get money, no telling what they will do to people who are against them getting it.

Posted by BPFROM843 on August 15, 2008 at 5:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Well to set the record straight im white but i hate all this undercover rascism that occures on here when billy hutchinsons family sued i didnt see any of this greed and money grubbers comments and what did you think they would do with the 4.5 million they mise well get there peice of the pie

Posted by ChasCarolinaGirl on August 15, 2008 at 5:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I apologize for assuming.

I think that racism is used way to much but lets not get off track w/ the racism bit. Its so redundant and only causes needless headaches.

Posted by jeff61 on August 15, 2008 at 5:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Apparently someone was not reading articles on the subject because much has been said about families filing lawsuits. But again, and if you don't know the difference, this is about adult step children who ceased being step children 22 years ago and some adult children try to lay claim to money that was donated by the public which was to go to the "IMMEDIATED FAMILY who are WIVES AND MINOR CHILDREN". No a bunch of free loading adults who by all accounts claim they took full advantage of this man in life and are now trying to do so in his death.... I cannot believe some people are so blind to this and would even have the balls to try to defend their actions