Freebies draw large crowd
Event provided needed supplies to those feeling pinch of weak economy
School supply lists that include notebooks, folders and pencils can add up to hundreds of dollars for parents.
Video
First Day
Thousands of Lowcountry students came to Liberty Square and the Maritime Center for the 6th Annual First Day Festival.
But these are tough economic times, and some families are scrimping and struggling to pay basic food and energy bills.
For many, the city-sponsored sixth annual First Day Festival on Sunday was a blessing and a relief because it provided those much-needed school supplies for free. People began lining up at Liberty Square at the South Carolina Aquarium three hours before the festival started, and some said the free supplies were the main reason they came.
The festival's purpose is to celebrate education and generate excitement about the new school year.
"It's hot, but it doesn't matter because I'm still going to get my school supplies," said Chante Parker, who will be a seventh-grader this year at James Island Middle School.
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Supplies were the major draw for her family, and they took a break in the shade to organize their multiple bags of notebooks, rulers, paper and pencils. Chante said she no longer needed to go supply shopping.
Alba Sanchez came with her husband and four children to the festival for the same reason: "I need the supplies," she said. Her family doesn't have money, and neither she nor her husband were working, she said. They tried finding a church that was giving away free supplies, but Sanchez's husband got lost, her oldest daughter said.
The Post and Courier
Dana Covert (left) and Clarissa Cain, both from Columbia, work the AMERIGROUP Community Care booth Sunday at the Charleston Maritime Center as they hand out school supplies during the sixth annual First Day Festival. Free school supplies were the main draw for many who came out for the event.
Without this day and the free supplies, Sanchez said she didn't know what she would've done.
Ann Siders took her two grandsons to the festival for a few reasons, and school supplies was one of them. She said it's nice for children to have free entry into the aquarium, which they hadn't seen before, and the supplies will ease the burden on many families' finances. She was grateful for the festival and said she planned to share her supplies with her church and community.
"It saves a whole lot of money, especially the way the economy is now," Siders said.
Thousands of area students and their parents meandered around the Charleston Maritime Center and Liberty Square. Organizations set up booths geared toward helping families and children, and children were entertained with face painting, food and games.
This was the first year that the city hosted a logo contest in which students were asked to create a design to describe the festival and its mission. The winning logo will be used in festival promotions next year.
Past stories
Pricing our schools; August 17, 2008
Riley carries torch for First Day Fest; August 16, 2008
Benjamin Ancrum, a freshmen who will attend the new Charleston Charter School for Math & Science, was the winner. His design used the words, "Celebrate a new beginning," and incorporated the new Ravenel bridge. His family moved to Charleston a year ago to start a new life, and he said that was the inspiration for his entry.
Charleston Mayor Joe Riley was among the community leaders mingling and sweating with the rest of the crowd. He said one way to measure the greatness of a city is by the number of quality and free events that citizens can access.
"This is a free and meaningful event, and it reinforces that this is really important," he said. "It's great. I just love it."
Reach Diette Courrégé at 937-5546 or dcourrege@postandcourier.com.
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Comments
moonpie (anonymous) says...
Just show up it appears and your in freebie-ville!
That's what the Sanchez family did...?
August 18, 2008 at 7:03 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
majorjohnson (anonymous) says...
When Joe Riley says it's "free", what he really means is the taxpayers paid for it and he gets to hand it out.
It really gets my goat when politicians take money from me and then hand it out saying it's "free." No it isn't, I worked for it and I earned it, and you're giving it away.
August 18, 2008 at 7:26 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
abitskeptical (anonymous) says...
"But these are tough economic times, and some families are scrimping and struggling to pay basic food and energy bills."......
& yet many of them are still smoking, getting their hair & nails done, etc.......
August 18, 2008 at 7:48 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
crankyyankee (anonymous) says...
Maybe they could pass out a little ambition or gumption.
August 18, 2008 at 8:18 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
geekboy (anonymous) says...
Posted by tripsa on August 18, 2008 at 8:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)
who needs ambition when you have the government (supported by taxpayers with ambition) taking care of you?
*********************************************
That's "gub'ment".
hth, hand.
August 18, 2008 at 8:27 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
moonpie (anonymous) says...
Tripsa roll on... Your Katrina assertion is right on.
HELP YOURSELF PEOPLE!
August 18, 2008 at 8:30 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
sethook (anonymous) says...
And my dad always told me the "Free Lunch" counter was closed and I needed to make it on my own. Packin' my bags for Charleston, the land of plenty.
August 18, 2008 at 8:32 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
5thGenerationLocal (anonymous) says...
Honestly, I am sick and tired of people always putting their hand out but never taking responsibility for their bad choices. This country has gone soft.
August 18, 2008 at 8:39 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
guidedbystewart (anonymous) says...
tripsa,
What if you don't have a family, you are an atheist?
Just playing devil's advocate, but is the case sometimes....
August 18, 2008 at 8:43 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
guidedbystewart (anonymous) says...
I do agree that you have to take responsibilty, but some people do not have the same support network that others do...
August 18, 2008 at 8:44 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
geekboy (anonymous) says...
If you can't afford to take care of their every need, maybe you shouldn't be pumping out children like a General Motors production line.
August 18, 2008 at 8:58 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
I agree with that statement geek
August 18, 2008 at 9:07 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
guidedbystewart (anonymous) says...
I don't disagree with you tripsa, and I am actually proud that you volunteered. I volunteer for habitat for humanity, though not all about being altruistic, I have learned allot for my own benefit (home maintenance). Really there can be personal benefits from giving.
August 18, 2008 at 9:17 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
My take on Most of them is that these are not people that fell on hard times, they have always been on hard times and have done nothing to improve or change thier situation. They continue to pump out children they can not afford and rely on the tax payer to support them.
August 18, 2008 at 9:30 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
blah_blah_blah (anonymous) says...
FOR ALL THOSE THAT WHINE ABOUT THIS GREAT COUNTRY AND HAVING TO PAY TAXES, FEEL FREE TO LEAVE!
FOR GOD SAYS; "WHATEVER YOU HAVE TO DONE FOR THE LEAST OF THESE, YOU HAVE DONE FOR ME."
August 18, 2008 at 10 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
JC (anonymous) says...
Okay you nay-sayers...the supplies were donated and bought with donations. Gezzz...you always have to put down everything. Get a life!
August 18, 2008 at 10:04 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
dogwoodroad (anonymous) says...
true...items were donated - in fact they collected donations at school for this event...however, I don't get it...how expensive are school supplies anyway? All you have to have is paper, pencils, and maybe some glue!!!
August 18, 2008 at 10:24 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
dogwoodroad (anonymous) says...
hmmm...I kind of don't think God was talking about paying taxes...
August 18, 2008 at 10:26 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
willbillbedamned (anonymous) says...
I'm never surprised here.I see a story and go to the comments section and see exactly the same people railing about the same things. Did anybody read the article enough to notice what JC said is correct?? Judging from most of the spelling, y'all just looked at the pictures. I'm not surprised at that.Same crap about "pumping out babies" and the "nanny state". No compassion for the children who need these supplies to have a half ass chance of breaking out of the cycle of poverty they find themselves in. At least these parents were there trying to provide for the needs of their children.
August 18, 2008 at 10:27 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
sapf (anonymous) says...
Not only were the supplies donated, but they were available to ANYONE, not just the "needy".
It amazes me how some people can throw a negative spin on ANYTHING. And it embarrasses me that anyone in the world can read these comments and form their opinion of Charleston and Charleston's people from the ignorance and hatefulness that's posted here. I think the greatest service that P&C could do for the city and its image would to be to take away these public posted comments.
WHEW! I've wanted to get THAT off my chest for a long time!!
August 18, 2008 at 10:31 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
STREETLAW (anonymous) says...
Apparently this reported was educated in South Carolina and doesn't understand the meaning of the word free.
This is creeping socialism, pure and simple.
And if Obama is elected, it will be like carpet bagging on steroids.
August 18, 2008 at 10:32 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
dogwoodroad (anonymous) says...
the supply list includes a lot of supplies that are not even necessary...seems interesting that the amount of money spent, regardless of who spends the money, does not directly correlate with the quality of education provided/received.
August 18, 2008 at 10:44 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
I could not imagine how that cost would impact a family of 4 living on minimum wage.
There in lies the problem, minimum wage and family of 4. Mininum wage should equal family of 1. Why people think they can support a family on mininum wage is beyond me. but they probably know this and rely on the tax pay for support.
August 18, 2008 at 10:45 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
grannyofsix (anonymous) says...
good morning all where can i get free office supplies
August 18, 2008 at 10:52 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
sapf (anonymous) says...
What, so now I'll be attacked as a Nazi? Just proves my point.
I'm saying that the comments expressed in this forum are usually uninformed and hateful, and give the impression that the people of Charleston are also uninformed and hateful. It reminds me of a small town I used to drive through, that had a huge pig farm on the edge of town. The whole town didn't stink, but the pig farm left such a stench in my nostrils that I couldn't really appreciate the town.
August 18, 2008 at 10:56 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
dogwoodroad (anonymous) says...
I definitely agree that the school supply list is too expensive, but that's kind of my point - not to say that people should be able to afford a $225 list, but to say that perhaps all those supplies are not necessary.
August 18, 2008 at 11:06 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
geekboy (anonymous) says...
I have compassion for those less fortunate than myself.
I donate money to TUW every month (because I can supposedly choose where it is spent.)
I give money to the Salvation Army every year, because I remember hurricane Hugo and its aftermath.
Between that and my charitable contributions to the SC and US governments every two weeks, I feel I've done my part.
Unfortunately, we now have an entire generation that feels they are entitled to be supported on my dime.
Well the bank is closed, leeches.
August 18, 2008 at 11:07 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lou9 (anonymous) says...
The parents who stuck their hands out and took the free supplies (without probably so much as a thank you) are the same ones who won't give their children what they need the most to get an education: their own time and and concern about whether or not their children are attending class, doing their homework, having trouble with the material, the list goes on and on.
August 18, 2008 at 11:07 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
guidedbystewart (anonymous) says...
"The parents who stuck their hands out and took the free supplies (without probably so much as a thank you) are the same ones who won't give their children what they need the most to get an education: their own time and and concern about whether or not their children are attending class, doing their homework, having trouble with the material, the list goes on and on."
Great Post!
August 18, 2008 at 11:15 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
I was responing to Newt's comment
Posted by Newt on August 18, 2008 at 10:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Dogwood - the supply list I received from Charleston County cost our family $225.00. That is not cheap!
I could not imagine how that cost would impact a family of 4 living on minimum wage.
The Term "City Sponsored" usauly ends up "Tax Payer Funded" at some point.
August 18, 2008 at 11:18 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
coolfreaknbeans (anonymous) says...
School supply lists are absurd!I am greatful that my childs school became a school of the arts last year.(offering art,dance,guitar,etc.)But...last year for dance she simply needed ballet shoes and comfy clothes for dance.This year she needs a special ordered school shirt(don't know the cost of that yet)ballet shoes,jazz pants(have to get at least 3 pair)and the list goes on.The dance stuff alone has cost me over $120 thus far.Not to mention I have already spent $60 on other school supplies(and I still have more to get)On this list they want tissues and baby wipes!What exactly is done with 31 boxes of tissues and babywipes?My point is why am I buying supplies for other kids when programs like mentioned in this article are all over?I don't mean to sound heartless but I have as many children as I can support.Not enough $$$ to support everyone elses kids!
August 18, 2008 at 11:19 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
In regards to 'School Lists" would the education system shut down because the kids did not show up with hand sanitizer, boxes of tissues and freezer bags of different sizes?
August 18, 2008 at 11:24 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
coolfreaknbeans (anonymous) says...
jeff61 they act like it!I know in the past several years if you don't have all of your supplies,you don't get a 100 grade.That is of course unless you privately approach the teacher and claim poverty.Then those students get my kids stuff.
August 18, 2008 at 11:28 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
dogwoodroad (anonymous) says...
coolfreak & jeff61-that's my point, exactly!!! when I was a kid, we took paper, pencils, glue and a pair of scissors...the rest of that stuff is not necessary for education!
August 18, 2008 at 11:29 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
coolfreaknbeans (anonymous) says...
When my sister lived in PA,she went to enroll her kids in school.She asked what school supplies they needed.She said they looked at her like she was an idiot.They said pencils and paper.When I was growing up it was our responsibility to buy our own organizational products if we wanted them.We just showed up with writing implements and paper,anything else was optional.This year I was told mechanical pencils with extra lead ONLY!I swear next year toilet paper will probably be on the list.I'm over it!
August 18, 2008 at 11:39 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
If the test scores determine they should get a 100, I dare the system to give otherwise. I would ask that they justify the need for all this.
August 18, 2008 at 11:45 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
coolfreaknbeans (anonymous) says...
jeff61 I shouldve clarified.The 100 grade is a gimme for bringing it all in.Which is unfair on so many levels.
August 18, 2008 at 11:53 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
I see kind of like "extra" credit
August 18, 2008 at 11:57 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
iceman1978 (anonymous) says...
geekboy, You sound like me. I give to local charities and believe that you help those when they are really in a bad spot and not able to care for themselves. There does seem to be a growing number of people who believe that it's now an entitlement rather than something to use in an emergency situation.
August 18, 2008 at 12:01 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
shoelaces (anonymous) says...
I skipped reading the article completely!!
I am at school sitting at my desk eating a quick lunch before getting back to work to be ready for my students tomorrow.
Here is what my kids will be given tomorrow....
A new 1 inch binder, pencils, communication folder, and a marble composition book.
NOW!!! When I went to FEE night at my child's school I forked out nearly $250 to cover PTA, 2 school shirts, 1 week of after school care, school fees, class snack for the year, and 25 days worth of school lunch. And then I had to BUY my child's school supplies, probably around $20.
Public school ain't free, folks!!!! At least not for those of us who make a little bit of money. Then I get to watch my students bring in bogus lunch forms and qualify for free lunch. They have money for cookies and ice cream!!!! I will supply pencils and notebook paper as long as they last.
Next week it's another $45 for after school care and in 25 days it will be $50 more for lunch......
August 18, 2008 at 12:01 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
communication folder ???????
August 18, 2008 at 12:05 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Girleygirl (anonymous) says...
I was in line getting me some free supplies for my kids, and I will do it again if the oppurtunity knocks.
I hope this event helped alot of kids that could not go to school on the first day (remember last year) because they did not have uniforms or the supplies needed. Good work to the community leaders involved and all that participated!
August 18, 2008 at 12:29 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
common_sense_plz (anonymous) says...
I volunteer at a local "emergency" food pantry that has become "Piggly Wiggly" to many. I agree with Tripsa's comment (reposted below) and we as a group have decided that we want to help people learn to help themselves. We want to start with quarterly classes. Please share with me some ideas that can be offered in classes to "Teach people how to fish" or to paraphrase from Dave Ramsey teach people to leave the cave, kill the food, drag it home, and use it.
"We have replaced compassion and love, with a heartless, bureaucracy that only looks at a pay stub and then counts kids. No human compassion, no trying to get folks to help themselves, just dole out the goods. and that the mentallity is the same - I AM ENTITLED to the rich guys money and government should make it happen
August 18, 2008 at 12:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
shoelaces (anonymous) says...
Jeff61:
Yep...it's just a plastic folder to put papers in and send home. It has two flaps. One says "keep at home" and the other says "return to school." Real high tech stuff but a useful tool for getting information to and from school.
August 18, 2008 at 12:32 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
I do not think either of those factors should prevent a child from showing up for school. I sure arragements could have been made. I think the reason a lot of kids that did not go was because the "parent" was too damm lazy to get them there.
August 18, 2008 at 12:32 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
Got it Shoe,, just was not sure what the "Industry Term" for that was LOL
August 18, 2008 at 12:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
blah_blah_blah (anonymous) says...
These are our children you guys are talking about. We should, as a civilization, give these children everything they need, without grumbling or complaining. Children with the proper resources and teachers, grow up to benefit society.
August 18, 2008 at 12:37 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Girleygirl (anonymous) says...
Jeff- I don't know all of the scenarios why some of the kids did not show up to school but lack of school supplies and uniforms was a reason.
August 18, 2008 at 12:48 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
I don't think anyone is grumbling about children getting what they need for school, but these are not "MY Children". It is the parents responsibilty to ensure the needs of thier children are met, not mine. They as a civilization should be responsible enough to only have children they can support without relying on the rest of the "civilization" to do it.
August 18, 2008 at 12:53 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MindBath (anonymous) says...
Posted by lou9 on August 18, 2008 at 11:07 a.m.
The parents who stuck their hands out and took the free supplies (without probably so much as a thank you) are the same ones who won't give their children what they need the most to get an education: their own time and and concern about whether or not their children are attending class, doing their homework, having trouble with the material, the list goes on and on.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I seriously doubt it, lou. First time I ever went to the SC Aquarium it was some $1 promotion. If the line to get these supplies was anywhere near what it was that day, I can assure you any parent willing to stand in it was more than willing to give of their time for their child's education.
August 18, 2008 at 12:59 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Xnavykat (anonymous) says...
I don't have a problem with folks getting free suplies, food, etc. What does bother me is those who abuse it (the ones who probably can afford it).
August 18, 2008 at 1 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
iceman1978 (anonymous) says...
jeff, My stepbrother and his soon to be ex-wife are like that. I'm sure you've seen me mention them before. I refer to them as LA and CB. You can probably guess what that's short for.
Together they have four kids and CB has three other kids from two previous marriages. LA doesn't work and is also too lazy to drive one of the children to school for speech therapy. I know for a fact that they're getting $600 a month for food stamps. I can only imagine how much money they're getting in other programs. Yet they kept right on making babies.
You feel sorry for the children. I don't know what I would have done if I were born into that kind of life. Most likely I would have left as soon as I could and joined the military if that's what it took. The parents of such kids are leeches as far as I'm concerned.
August 18, 2008 at 1:01 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
The article on truancy a week ago indicated that was the main factor so I ran with it.
August 18, 2008 at 1:01 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
eyfigueroa (anonymous) says...
"The parents who stuck their hands out and took the free supplies (without probably so much as a thank you) are the same ones who won't give their children what they need the most to get an education: their own time and and concern about whether or not their children are attending class, doing their homework, having trouble with the material, the list goes on and on."
That comment sent chills up my spine. It is absolutely true.
Good schools > bad schools
Why?
Though in SC the tax revenue is NOT equally parceled out as I think it should be, the crux of the matter is parental involvement or lack thereof.
August 18, 2008 at 1:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
iceman1978 (anonymous) says...
Having said that, you don't punish children for the irresponsibility of their parents. We don't get to choose who our parents are. Children are not capable of caring for themselves. If they grow up without a proper education and no job skills they are more likely to turn to crime which will cost us when they are put in prison.
What I would say is that when people are on public assistance that they should use birth control to prevent having more babies. But don't punish the kids they already have.
August 18, 2008 at 1:07 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
blah_blah_blah (anonymous) says...
Jeff,
I agree with you whole-heartedly, BUT, whether the parents should have had them or not, does not help the children. Your statement, "They as a civilization" doesn't make sense. But WE as a civilization benefit from well-educated children, whether that child is yours, mine, or someone else's.
August 18, 2008 at 1:08 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MindBath (anonymous) says...
More CSI on the anonymous comments board I see...
August 18, 2008 at 1:19 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
OK six months ago... If you want an exact date batty Thomas I will find the P&C e-mail comformation for you. I remember creating the account before christmas of last year but not posting anything. Then had to go back to have the password reset. I have never posted anything except with Jeff61. And your comming out the wood work with this because why????
August 18, 2008 at 1:20 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
Yes Ice I recall your LC and CB,,, sound like a winning pair but it looks like the situation may be changing??
August 18, 2008 at 1:22 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
Ok Joined: Feb. 5, 2008, but I am sure I created the account a couple months prior to this but never posted anyting and then forgot the password and had to have it reset. It would not allow me to create another account with the same name and e-mail address.
But this is about school supplies not when I created mt account.
August 18, 2008 at 1:27 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
Oh,, I know why Tommy is mad,,, I joked he had bats comming from his head on the article about the water break and his debate with Coldbeer..
Sorry Thomas,It seemed humorous at the time..
August 18, 2008 at 1:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
blah_blah_blah (anonymous) says...
Newt,
My point exactly, that is putting better than I ever could.
August 18, 2008 at 1:56 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
iceman1978 (anonymous) says...
Jeff, Yes. CB is now moved back in with husband #2 and LA is back sponging off his mother.
August 18, 2008 at 1:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MindBath (anonymous) says...
Exactly Newt. Several commenters agreed with lou when he said the parents who lined up 3 hours ahead of time in August heat to get their kid's school supplies are the same who will not give of their own time for their kid's education.
Mum on my rebuttal. People cling to their beliefs 'round here.
August 18, 2008 at 2:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MindBath (anonymous) says...
I was thinking the same thing, CB. Thought I'd let you handle it, tho.
August 18, 2008 at 2:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
blah_blah_blah (anonymous) says...
CNN similar story:
http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/wayofl...
August 18, 2008 at 2:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
blah_blah_blah (anonymous) says...
ColdBeer,
Is that a Happy Days reference? Sweet!
August 18, 2008 at 2:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
guidedbystewart (anonymous) says...
"As for the children, I agree, we can't turn our backs on them. BUT... doesn't a line need to be drawn somewhere??? How is this trend going to be reversed? If there are no repercussions for living irresponsibly, people will continue to live irresponsibly... and teach their kids to live the same way. Mandatory sterilization would never work. For one reason... who would you trust to decide who gets sterilized and who doesn't? What criteria would be used? Abandonment of the children won't work, it's too inhumane. The only real answer is through generations of education (re-education in many cases). The problem there is that education doesn't work unless that parents WANT it to work, and as already proven in our public school systems, many parents simply don't care."
Great Post!
We can make generalizations all day whether these same people that are willing to stand in line would be willing to help or get involved with their child's school work, but we will not know for sure. From thing that I know for sure is that for many schools, parent involvement is horrible. For example, I have a friend that is the president of the Morningside Middle (North Charleston) PTA and does even have any children that attends school there. She says that it is like pulling teeth to get any of the parents involved, and that most of the meetings, only one or two parents show up if any at all. This is appalling, but the school system can only do so much. Like Newt said in a past post, you can not make the parents get involved, and maybe some have good excuses like working two jobs, but anyways, it is still a huge problem.
August 18, 2008 at 2:45 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ptmama73 (anonymous) says...
Fiskars Scissors - $1.00
Glue Sticks (2 pack) - $.50
Dry erase markers (4 pack) - $5.00
3-prong 2 pocket folders - $.17 each (unless you hit the Staples sale; then they were free. We had to have 5)
24 pack of Crayola crayons - $.50
Single subject spiral notebooks - $.99 each (we had to have 5)
Grand total for one child - $12.85.
The school supply list was provided on the last day of school (Thank you DD2) so I had all summer to purchase these items.
To break it down - That equals $4.22 per month or $.14 per day (per elementary aged child over the summer break).
2 Children supplied for under $30.00.
I see NO EXCUSE WHAT SO EVER for not having your child(ren)'s basic supplies before school starts.
August 18, 2008 at 2:47 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
No Newt, I just beleive in not producing more children then you can support. To me that is irresponsible and even more,,, selfish,,, then they expect the tax payer to support them while they have even more
August 18, 2008 at 2:48 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lou9 (anonymous) says...
Mindbath - I stand by what I said. Just because they'll stand in line for 3 hours (I doubt that) for something free doesn't mean they put forth the effort to ensure their children are getting a good education. These are the parents that don't contact or meet with the teachers to see how their children are doing and what they need help with, or who argue with the administrators when there is a behavior problem with their child. Sure, they will stand in line for hours for some "gubment cheese" or a fan from Project Cool Breeze but won't spend some time for their children's education. There's no handout in that.
August 18, 2008 at 2:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
I think your dry markers may be over priced there ptmama
(takes a baseball to the self)
But you left off the liquid hand soap, the tissues, the blech wipes and the zip lock bags of multiple sizes.
But I see you point none the less
August 18, 2008 at 3:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
charlestonpride (anonymous) says...
The supply lists do go over board. But, wait until you receive the class fees list (for high school mostly). They will charge a fee for every single class. I paid $10 for my daughter's keyboard class. They said it was for paper. I questioned the fee and they said that If I didn't pay it, my child would not get her diploma because it would show up as fees owed. Her art class and supplies ran me over $100. This was a few years ago. No telling what they are now.
August 18, 2008 at 3:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ptmama73 (anonymous) says...
We didn't have to supply tissue, hand soap, wipes, or zip lock bags this year (Yippee)!
I'm very glad that someone got my point about my child being worth more than $.20 per day.
August 18, 2008 at 3:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
What school was this chaspride, don't remember paying a fee for those classes that are required. I would be questioning it also. Which begs the question, for people that claim they cannot afford anything, how do those fees get paid by them? I know "Marching Band" required $600.00 at one time, I glad my child decided on something else
August 18, 2008 at 3:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
CaptPete (anonymous) says...
It's a good thing this was done. These folks will now have more money to spend at the Coastal Carolina Fair this Oct.
August 18, 2008 at 3:14 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
blah_blah_blah (anonymous) says...
sounds like a some of you guys, are assuming a lot of these people that are standing in line for free school supplies. While there are always some, don't judge them all, CaptPete, lou9.
August 18, 2008 at 3:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
counterpoint (anonymous) says...
Can we start eating the poor again?
August 18, 2008 at 3:29 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
charlestonpride (anonymous) says...
It was W. Ashley High. Maybe Diette can investigate these "fees".
August 18, 2008 at 3:32 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
shoelaces (anonymous) says...
I will eagerly greet my students tomorrow morning...with supplies or without supplies.....in uniform or out of uniform.....free or reduced lunch.
***I forgot to add the money to my total that I paid for my child's uniforms....no idea the total there but worth it so we don't have to worry about what to wear every day!!!
August 18, 2008 at 3:37 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
coolfreaknbeans (anonymous) says...
ptmama73-My gripe isnt what I spend on my child.It's what I spend to fill a supply closet because other parents send their kids to school ill prepared.If my child has a runny nose,I send her with tissues,if she's in need of an eraser-I buy one.It's common sense parenting,I'm just sick of picking up the slack.
August 18, 2008 at 3:39 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ptmama73 (anonymous) says...
Coolfreaknbeans - I share your gripe. I provide more than the basics that are "required" which I listed above (plus paper and pencils). All any child HAS TO HAVE is the basics though.
My whole point is how absurd it is to hear people state that they cannot provide the basics. Hang up your prepaid phone that costs $.15 per minutes for the next hour and a half and you just bought the basics for one child.
BTW - I always buy 3 to 4 extras of everything and donate it to the boys home in Summerville (truly needy children).
August 18, 2008 at 4:05 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
coolfreaknbeans (anonymous) says...
ptmama73-I didnt realize that there was a boys home in Summerville.What type of donated items are they in need of?
August 18, 2008 at 4:08 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
sc4peace (anonymous) says...
It is not the children's fault that their parents can't afford school supplies; however- some of these parents probably left with their free school supplies and then went and got their hair and nails done, while chatting on their bluetooth...they should have to donate some time to the PTA of their school in order to receive the free school supplies- this way the kid's supplies are taken care of and the parents have paid a little back with their time.
August 18, 2008 at 4:14 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
Ok Thomas,, just for the record Notice the Date of 14 Dec, may not have been a year but was the time I mentioned
This should satisfy your concerns
-----Original Message-----
From: webmaster@postandcourier.com [mailto:webmaster@postandcourier.com]
Sent: Friday, December 14, 2007 3:02 PM
To:
Subject: www.charleston.net registration
Somebody with this e-mail address requested a user
account at www.charleston.net. To complete your registration, please visit the following
page:
http://www.charleston.net/accounts/re...
Note that this page will expire one week from today, so act quickly.
August 18, 2008 at 4:21 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
LOL,,, Thanks Cold
August 18, 2008 at 4:29 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MindBath (anonymous) says...
Some of these parents who stood in line (3 hours, according to the story) may very well be the same who later will not be involved with their kids' education. You can make whatever judgements on that you like.
But the day they stand in line in the heat to get school supplies is hardly the appropriate time to point out their deficiencies. I am sure there are plenty lazy parents in the lowcountry who wouldn't dream of going to that much trouble - even for $10 worth of paper and pencils.
You are judging the ones who showed up, because they showed up.
August 18, 2008 at 4:29 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
dogwoodroad (anonymous) says...
hmmm...perhaps each school should partner with a local company and get these supplies all donated as needed...it would be good PR for the companies, save tax money, and allow children to not have to worry about having school supplies...
Iknow the supplies for this festival were donated and not bought with tax money, but I am sure that every child in Charleston did not participate, so you still have a problem with some parents having to subsidize other people's children.
The point of charity and giving donations is that you do it out of the goodness of your heart...not that you are forced in to redistribution of wealth by some governmental agency.
August 18, 2008 at 4:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
iceman1978 (anonymous) says...
ColdBeer, I just now thought about that. CB is short for Cold Beer. My CB stands for something different. I don't think I can say it on the board because it would be censored, as would LA. lol
What you could do in drawing the line is require that they use birth control as a condition of their recieving benefits from welfare. If it were up to me I would take it a step further and suspend their voting privileges while they're on welfare. By doing that you would increase the incentive for politcians to actually address the root causes of poverty rather than keep people dependant on the system, and keep them as a voting block.
I've always said that if someone on welfare refuses to take birth control and gets pregnant anyway then the State should only be willing to pay for an abortion. That would solve the problem of teen pregnancy if you ask me.
August 18, 2008 at 4:46 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
7green0 (anonymous) says...
ptmama73,
your supply list sure is short checkout my child's list if mine was that short I would send in extras also.
1 Wide-ruled notebook paper
Pencils with erasers
1 Red ball point pens - 1 package
2 Tissue
Boys Only: gallon ziploc freezer bags
Girls Only: quart Ziploc freezer bags
5 marble composition books
10 Dividers tabs for binder with pockets
Zippered Pencil pouch
colored pencils
1 package of dry erase markers
1 2 inch binders -Hardback
highlighter pack -yellow, blue, pink, green, orange, purple
1 ream of copy paper
1 package of sticky notes
1 25 pack of sheet protectors
1 Hand sanitizer
Black Sharpie Marker
glue stick
Optional - a small flash drive (512 MB) is helpful to assist students in transferring files from home to school
August 18, 2008 at 4:48 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ptmama73 (anonymous) says...
Dorchester Presbyterian Church in Summerville supports 3 homes and also a shelter for abused/abandoned children (http://www.dorchesterpresbyterian.org... Connie Maxwell Children's Home (http://www.conniemaxwell.com/html/sum... Thornwell Home for Children;
Midland Parkway also has a home for troubled boys but I am not sure of the name.
All donations can be made through Dorchester Co. DSS - you just need to specify when you make the donation.
All homes accept cash donations, school supplies, clothing, etc.
August 18, 2008 at 4:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
coolfreaknbeans (anonymous) says...
Thank you ptmama73.If I have a nickel left I will try to donate something :)or help out closer to Christmas.
August 18, 2008 at 4:59 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ChasCarolinaGirl (anonymous) says...
Jeff61 - Your comments are right on target! I dont even need to post. :)
August 18, 2008 at 5:12 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
Could I dare to say very few of those parents stood in the heat for the supplies, there sorry asses were inside of the "free" aquarium while their children stood in line
August 18, 2008 at 5:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ptmama73 (anonymous) says...
The article states: notebooks, rulers, paper and pencils as what was being given out - the BASICS! Sticky pads, red ink pens, freezer bags, paper plates, zippered pencil holders, etc. or the lack there of will NOT make or break a child's education. They are the "wish list" of the school or teacher - these type of items are not necessary for effective teaching or learning.
The point I was trying to make had nothing to do with the actual supply list! It has everything to do with how much any given individual values their child(ren)! Even if you had to buy $100.00 worth of supplies it equals out to $1.11 per day over summer break. THAT'S IT! That is less than buying a cup of coffee, a 20oz soda, or a can of beer a day.
I certainly value my children much more than that and would happily pay 10X as much to ensure they have everything they need to excel in school. I just cannot comprehend "parents" that don't give a damn about their children or their education.
August 18, 2008 at 5:15 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
Midland Parkway also has a home for troubled boys but I am not sure of the name.
Would that be the Charleston County Detention Center???
August 18, 2008 at 5:19 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ptmama73 (anonymous) says...
No! The home is to prevent them from ending up there!
August 18, 2008 at 5:20 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
Yea you do ChasGirl.. I tend to get beat up a little and could use some help to show I am not the only one who has these opinions
August 18, 2008 at 5:21 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MindBath (anonymous) says...
Yes, Jeff. Nothing but children in that line.
Sheesh...
August 18, 2008 at 5:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
Well that is good PTA I hope they prevent them from winding up there and I see your point on the school supply stuff. Much of that stuff is not needed. I am sure the copy paper is used by the school as well as some of the other stuff I do have one question though, why do boys need one gallon zip locks and girls only need quart size.
August 18, 2008 at 5:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MindBath (anonymous) says...
Here's what happened: In a state ranked near the bottom in education, some people made school supplies available for free and some people came and got those supplies and now those children have some school supplies. And tax dollars did not buy the supplies.
The only possible conclusion is that the parents who went and got these supplies are the same who could give a **** about their kids education.
August 18, 2008 at 5:31 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
And just why the hell not,, There are grains and such in that beer, I believe it does have a "nutrient" value: but then again I could be wrong:.
August 18, 2008 at 6:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
LOL and the little girl had to explain this to them... I wonder who runs that house
August 18, 2008 at 6:27 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
Oh.... I thought the couple had a daughter that had to explain to her parents they could buy beer with food stamps... LOL....
August 18, 2008 at 6:43 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mamatrip (anonymous) says...
How in the world do so many of you have time to sit around all day reading and posting so many comments on this site? Do you not have jobs? Or do you steal your company's time by spending it all at this site?
May I point out that this was not ONLY about free school supplies, but also "The festival's purpose is to celebrate education and generate excitement about the new school year" per the article. Sheesh, I'm with sapf, y'all need to lighten up! Every now and then there's something done that's TRULY just a good thing.
I usually don't read the comments posted here because they're always so negative. But I hoped that an upbeat, positive article about a FESTIVAL celebrating the first day of school and giving away school supplies to all comers would escape the usual venomous reaction, so I gave in. It's like passing an accident on the highway - I don't WANT to look, but sometimes I look, and then I feel nauseous and hate myself for exposing myself to that. Well from now on I'm taking the bus, burying my nose in a book so that I don't have to witness the carnage.
It's worth paying for the hard-copy newspaper just to avoid the temptation of reading these posts!
August 18, 2008 at 6:43 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
Then don't mama,, mind your own business and don't worry about what the rest of us do. Yes I have a job and I do it quit well. You take the bus and bury your nose in your book.. at least we are engaging in debate and conversation about the problems that face us...we seek out the underlying problems and try bring to the fore front.. and by the way that car accident you refuse to look at... we are the emergency responders cutting those people out of the accident.... so there....damm that was well said if I must say so....
August 18, 2008 at 6:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
Tripsa,, I am sorry but you have not heard... any of those subjects are above Obama's pay grade....
August 18, 2008 at 7:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
Yes I saw that but made no connection till I heard the sound bit today...
but then It's like passing an accident on the highway - I don't WANT to look, but sometimes I look, and then I feel nauseous and hate myself for exposing myself to that.
August 18, 2008 at 7:37 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
luvmydogs59 (anonymous) says...
My goodness!! How in heavens name did I ever make it through elementary, middle and high school (in the 60s & 70s) and be an "A" student and then a college grad, without all of those supplies?? It's amazing that the old pencil, paper and blackboard method has become obsolete.
My children, who graduated a couple of years ago, didn't have a supply list...they just basically needed the pencils, pens and notebooks. Mind you, this was up north where the taxes are much higher than here. However, the state sales tax here was raised and we were told that besides lowering our property taxes, there would be plenty of money left to put toward our schools. Apparently it hasn't worked out that way, or the public school districts (run by taxes) would be able to afford, at the very least, the basic supplies needed by students.
Baby wipes, hand sanitizer (they never heard of soap in the restrooms??), plastic bags, etc., etc. are not really needed and are a waste of parents' money. Heck, I even had one person tell me that one of the items on her kids supply list was a lab coat!! It's getting out of hand!
August 18, 2008 at 7:40 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
coolfreaknbeans (anonymous) says...
jeff61 and tripsa Obama is a freakn moron-I loved that one comment and I should start using it often."I'm sorry but thats above my pay grade" Which to Obama obviously means he doesnt have an opinion.(or at least one he won't share with us)He makes me sick.
August 18, 2008 at 7:41 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
Its a whole new world in education Luvmydog, don't even want to imagine what's going on with the plastic bags, baby wipes and hand sanitizer, It's like passing an accident on the highway - I don't WANT to look, but sometimes I look, and then I feel nauseous and hate myself for exposing myself to that.
August 18, 2008 at 7:45 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
LOL....I think we will get a lot of milage out that one and... its above my pay grade....thanks for the great quotes guys...
August 18, 2008 at 7:55 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
luvmydogs59 (anonymous) says...
tripsa,
I was told from my friend about that communal pot thing. Considering how many kids are in a class and every kid has to bring "x" number of, let's say, hand sanitizers, they should have enough of those things to last a couple of years!
Jeff, I agree...and I love your analogy...very appropriate!
Times, they are a-changin'....
August 18, 2008 at 8:20 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ChasCarolinaGirl (anonymous) says...
Nothing but a bunch of free loaders ... That is all it is. I dont even have to read this article b/c it would just end up irritating me.
Have you ever been to the Easter Egg Hunt downtown? We will never go their again. It was a huge free for all and nothing but chaos for the free loaders. Yeah child, the that something for nothing ... Just like the greedy Draytons! That still burns my blood!
August 18, 2008 at 8:23 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
Like me ask you someth chasgirl and don't spare my feelings,,,, was it like passing an accident on the highway - I don't WANT to look, but sometimes I look, and then I feel nauseous and hate myself for exposing myself to that.
August 18, 2008 at 8:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ChasCarolinaGirl (anonymous) says...
Oh, you know it. Like a freakin' train wreck Jeff. Why do we do that to ourselves??? lol
August 18, 2008 at 8:39 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
10216340 (anonymous) says...
Yesterday OfficeMax had a package of 10 #2 pencils for .10 cents a package (limit 2 per person) and college and wide ruled spiral notebooks for .10 cents each (limit 10 I think). They also had rulers and folders but I don't remember what they cost.
On top of that, the dollar store has packages of 10 mechanical pencils (namebrand but I forgot which brand) for $1.00 plus other great deals.
My point is.....for a FEW dollars you can have the supplies your kids need and also have the satisfaction of knowing that you didn't need a handout.
The article said "School supply lists that include notebooks, folders and pencils can add up to hundreds of dollars for parents."
I have never in my life paid anything close to that nor have I met anyone who has.
August 18, 2008 at 8:41 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
It's like going to Chuncky Cheeses for birthday partys.. why in the hell did you ever think to go there.....
August 18, 2008 at 8:41 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ChasCarolinaGirl (anonymous) says...
Yes, my children do not know that Chucky Cheese even exists. lol
August 18, 2008 at 8:44 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
I over bought stuff at walmart over the years and have like eight cases of that loose leaf paper and note books they had on sale for like 10 cents a pice. So I am good with that stuff to at least the oldest graduates
August 18, 2008 at 8:47 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ChasCarolinaGirl (anonymous) says...
I hear ya. I have a few years yet before I have to worry about school supplies, but my children will always have what they need. I will never depend on someone else to give it out for free before they get what they need.
August 18, 2008 at 8:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
Well now is the time to buy that stuff.. buy a case or two of the loose leaf paper and note books for 5 / 10 cents a piece when they have it sale and you will be set...I even taught my kids to sell it at $1.00 mid way through the year to pay for next year...Ahhh no that is not true but the thought crossed my mind....and stay away from Rivers and your kids will never learn of the evil rat bastard Chuncky Cheeses.....talking about hell on wheels....Damm I am glad my two kids are older...
August 18, 2008 at 8:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
10216340 (anonymous) says...
After reading more of people posts I can see where they can spend hundreds of dollars (because they are talking about uniforms and specialty items).....BUT, those costly items are not the ones that where handed out....just the little old standbys that all students need (paper, rules, pencils, etc.) where given free.
Again, those items are cheap (see my post above) and don't require handouts.
August 18, 2008 at 9 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ChasCarolinaGirl (anonymous) says...
Well luckily we live in W. Ashley so they never see the one on Rivers and the one over here is pretty nasty the last time I went into it a long time ago. Nothing but germ infested money traps. :-)
August 18, 2008 at 9:05 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
abitskeptical (anonymous) says...
I spent $138 at Office Depot(& that was during that so called & Oh so great "tax free" weekend....) on school supplies for my high schooler & middle schooler.
At the urging of the high schooler, I did get the more expensive heavy duty 3 ring binders (he said they will last the whole year & the others start coming apart before Dec...so in the long run, it was cheaper to get the better binders).
What I noticed was that there was a huge price discrepancy between the very basic supplies & the slightly better grade supplies.
For example, the spiral notebooks that come with pocket pages, perforation & 3 holes so they fit in a binder, are a whole lot more than the simple spiral notebooks.
But in general, everything is more costly. The prices listed above at Office Max are not the norm. I was stunned at the cost of simple subject dividers....the cheapest ones were $2.69.
I could go on & on...but it is best that I don't.
August 18, 2008 at 9:19 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
iceman1978 (anonymous) says...
This is just one of the joys of not having children. I'll never have to worry about school supplies, tuition, having to re-live the worst moments of my own childhood vicariously through my children, I won't have to take vacation only in summer. I can wait until the kids are in school to enjoy a mostly child-free cruise. There's much to be said for it.
August 18, 2008 at 9:38 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
Chasgirl...Stay away from goodwood furniture plaza over that way... that rat bastard hangs out over that way
August 18, 2008 at 9:39 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ChasCarolinaGirl (anonymous) says...
I wouldnt trade being a mom for the world. I love it more than anything and I dont believe that you know true love until you have children yourself. Not telling you to have them b/c if it better suits your lifestyle to not have them, then good for you. As for me, I wouldnt trade it for the world. I hate that they do have to grow up around jerks and selfish idiots and thieves and liars, etc .. but I am going to do my damndest to make sure that they have everything they need and treat others as they want to be treated.
LOL Jeff. You are too funny!
August 18, 2008 at 9:42 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
Chasgirl......can I give you my two??????
August 18, 2008 at 9:46 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
Well you sometimes children can be like passing an accident on the highway - I don't WANT to look, but sometimes I look, and then I feel nauseous and hate myself for exposing myself to that. ROTFLMA 0r LOL
Damm that line works for almost anything.... god bless that person that came in here with it....
August 18, 2008 at 9:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ChasCarolinaGirl (anonymous) says...
Sure Jeff .. Send them on over!
August 18, 2008 at 9:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ChasCarolinaGirl (anonymous) says...
That is a great quote! lol That should be your signature to your every email. lol
It was good hijacking this thread w/ you Jeff! Im sure we will run across each other again through here ... but certainly not through Chucky Cheese! ;-)
August 18, 2008 at 9:55 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
abitskeptical (anonymous) says...
When someone, who had no children but was getting ready to start a family, asked my husband how it was having children, my husband answered, very enthusiastically:
"Children are the worst thing & the absolute best thing that can ever happen to a person. You often will remember, wistfully, when you had the freedom that comes with no children. More often than that, however, you will wonder how you thought life was so great without them."
For us that just sums it up.
August 18, 2008 at 10:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
abitskeptical (anonymous) says...
I've got to go to bed as I am jumping all over the place..but I must comment on the hand sanitizer thing...it is ridiculous & more importantly it is contributing to the super germs such as MRSA.
Soap & water are best...not to mention cheaper.
Although it was on the school supply list, the hand sanitizer on our list was not "exempt" from the sales tax. I thought that was interesting, considering all the other things that were exempt that weekend...supposedly to help with & encourage school readiness.
August 18, 2008 at 10:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
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