Readers' Recent Comments

Thank you Dr Simmons and Dr Armour for your time, your efforts and your report.  It is appreciated.
One item you did not hit on, which likely is in the top three of all volatile issues, is the GCHS administration.
I am sure there are parents, staff, teachers, students and others, waiting anxiously to see positive change in this area.
Actually seeing change in HS Administration, would give a lot of GC citizens hope that there is remedy to our school ills.
This topic could be put to rest fast and easily, if someone has the where with all to take the necessary steps.
With no change in the administration, we have little hope of seeing other positive improvement, at least from this citizen.

By Thank You for Your Help on 02.22.2012

From the entry: 'G.S.C. Report: Meeting with Deputy State Superintendent of Schools – 02.22.12'.

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This is an example of leadership, transparency and how information should be made available to the public. Perhaps the county commission could take notes of the coalition’s fact finding and reporting to the public to understand how to make progress and keep the citizens of Gilmer County informed.

Thank you Dr. Simmons and Dr. Armour.

By anon on 02.22.2012

From the entry: 'G.S.C. Report: Meeting with Deputy State Superintendent of Schools – 02.22.12'.

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This is what I am talking about.  Professional, intelligent individuals discussing issues.  This is how positive communication is performed, dialogue established and evidentually issues resolved.

By Roy Jones on 02.22.2012

From the entry: 'G.S.C. Report: Meeting with Deputy State Superintendent of Schools – 02.22.12'.

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Thanks GFP for enabling citizens to read the Audit Report. There is convincing information in it to prove that serious problems exist with our school system, there is more than enough blame for all levels, and it will be a challenge to get the County’s system on track. Hopefully the transition can be made from the present blame game phase to one of honest cooperation in solving our problems. The focus must be on doing what is best for our youth, not counter productive efforts with motives for revenge and blame assignment. Dr. Simmons’ coalition letter has set the needed tone for future initiatives so let us move forward with   hatchets sheathed.

By Anderson on 02.22.2012

From the entry: 'G-LtE™: Is Glenville’s Elementary School A Serious Health Hazard?'.

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In Gilmer County if you want justice go to a #####, if you want screwed go to the law.

By cheyenne wells on 02.21.2012

From the entry: 'G-LtE™: Failing Systems at All Levels'.

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“One of the sites is the Butcher’s property on old auction barn land.“

We may recall when a PUBLISHED “Threatening letter from jail mentioned the intentional burning down of the Auction Barn and that it was another THUG who did it”

It appears that selling this property for a VERY SIZABLE SUM was always in the plans for the Butchers and they were willing to BREAK THE LAW to do it, but more importantly the law enabled the entire crime to take place ...not that says a lot!

Gross breach of ethics?  NO! It is a crime, just like taking over 10,000 a day in cash from the AJ Woofter estate.

I vote for taking matters in OUR OWN HANDS, for what else can you do with a CROOKED SHERIFF like METZ who is in on all the CRIME!

By Council of Concerned Citizens on 02.21.2012

From the entry: 'G-LtE™: Failing Systems at All Levels'.

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If data on pages 12 and 16 are analyzed the College ranks eighth among nine institutions in its data set for numbers of grads earning bachelor’s degrees/total students enrolled. The College’s value is 161 degrees/1,831 enrolled=.088. Shepherd University ranked first for the statistic with a 76.2% higher value. Bluefield State had a 27.2% higher value compared to the College’s. The unit cost for total expenditures at institutions in the data set per bachelor’s degree produced could not be estimated. That type of information should be important when the WV Legislature appropriates money for the institutions.

By vance on 02.21.2012

From the entry: 'CommunityConcerns™: How Did Glenville State Fare with Its Report Card?'.

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The situation at Gilmer County High School is pathetic. A boy has been punched hard enough to require surgery and the parents of this boy have the right to sue the “pants” off the State BOE, County BOE and the ones who have been cuddling him in the courts”. Bullying, students harming themselves, forced withdrawal from school because of harassment from others, fear, a “do nothing cover it up” Principal and Vice Principal, State Superintendent, County Superintendent and PA and others who will not do anything. What has to happen in this County to open eyes to this school system horror? A student bringing a weapon to school and harming other students, a student suicide or another severe injury, where is it going to end? This has to stop before something really tragic happens. Shame on all of you who could do something but choose not to. This will in some way, shape or form come home to you all to answer to.

By ANONYMOUS on 02.21.2012

From the entry: 'G-LtE™: Failing Systems at All Levels'.

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The CEFP committee, chaired by Nasia Butcher, recommended four properties as candidates for the new elementary school. One of the sites is the Butcher’s property on old auction barn land. Why can’t the County’s land at the rec. center and the College’s land be considered too? What an act of magnanimity it would be if the College donated land for the school to demonstrate that it is committed to partnering with the County to build a show piece school without money having to be spent for land. Getting back to Nasia Butcher, explain why is was not a gross breach of ethics if not inept personal judgement on her part when a recommendation was made to include her family’s property on the list. Does anyone believe that the Butchers would donate that land for free? What about Arbuckle land on the list? Do the Butchers have any financial interests there so they would profit personally if the school were to be built on it?

By Johnson on 02.20.2012

From the entry: 'G-LtE™: Failing Systems at All Levels'.

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To: Will Come Out
You may be right because the attacker’s grandmother is from a well known Gilmer Co. Family who tend to shoot each other and burn down houses.  So maybe those involved are afraid to do the right thing out of fear for the well being of themselves and their families.  I mean this child’s mother did attempt to poison her ex-husband and even though she admitted in and out of court to a DHHR worker that she did this action and intended to take the other boys and run, the legal system informed the father they could not bring charges against her because he did not have any of the contaminated food as evidence.  Her admission of guilt wasn’t enough I guess.

By Just An Opinion on 02.20.2012

From the entry: 'G-LtE™: Failing Systems at All Levels'.

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Knowing a little something about this situation I can honestly tell you that to my knowledge the child attacked in this situation was not related to “the elite” and technically the child who pursued the attack is not of “the elite”.  However, Mr. Hough seems to have a score to settle with relatives of the attacker so he continues to prosecute the attackers father who keeps yelling for someone to get his boy some help before something serious goes wrong, and has made several attempts to present Mr. Hough and Judge Jack Alsop with the truth.  Justice is blind folks because she chooses to be and these are the people we elect!  Of course I tend to worry and wonder at times if good people are forced to be corrupt because the power those most corrupt have themselves.

By Just An Opinion on 02.20.2012

From the entry: 'G-LtE™: Failing Systems at All Levels'.

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Did you notice how HOPE takes the entire matter off topic and far away from the TEXT of the Letter to the Editor, and we should take NOTE.

For that is HOW THEY DO IT in Gilmer County.

The main SUBJECT is favoritism toward SPECIAL FOLK but HOPE goes far away from the main point of the ELITE gets protected with special treatment for committing CRIMES!

The point was also made that the people that protect the elite, also have people that protect them, and those people should also be held accountable too.

I heard Doug Cottrill had a MAJOR in the SP get him off all the drugs with COCAINE he got caught with. If true, than immediate action needs to be taken against the major, and Cottrill, get it HOPE? 

Or are you hopeless?

By No HOPE for HOPE on 02.20.2012

From the entry: 'G-LtE™: Failing Systems at All Levels'.

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You sound like a teacher.  Well sister, what makes you so special? If one ornery kid in your class is all you have to worry about, then I can bet there are some teachers at the high school that would trade places with you in a New York minute.  Having said that, the student you are talking about is one of many.  Getting a bad apple removed from your classroom is impossible, unless of course you are one of the chosen few who get what they want.  Yes, all some teachers have to do is whine a little and a new teacher is hired just for that student or the kid is dumped in the foods class or greenhouse to create havoc where no one cares.  A cell phone violation gets a kid in more trouble than use of tobacco, threats against school employees or other students, or possession of dangerous objects.  Your best bet is to plant a cell phone on the kid and then write him up.

By Hope on 02.20.2012

From the entry: 'G-LtE™: Failing Systems at All Levels'.

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The line between being a ‘protector’ or being an ‘enabler’ is pretty fine.
All of the names mentioned are one or the other.
The ‘thinking’ of being a protector very often is just more enabling which just exacerbates the problems.
When this situation really turns violent, who will be blamed?
The “enablement gang” will simply say we were trying to help him, and walk off with no responsibility attached to themselves.
That said, the enablers maybe will keep sticking their necks out, far enough and often enough, that some one will take a swing at them.
Sooo…. name of the parents or grandparents were known, would that explain the ‘protectors’ actions?
        Sooo…..  who is ‘really’ being protected?  Child?  Parents?  Grandparents?

By It Will Come Out on 02.20.2012

From the entry: 'G-LtE™: Failing Systems at All Levels'.

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Why is it that we see GERRY HOUGH at the top of the BAD LIST ALWAYS - Although I would prefer all the names used to get the full story, I can understand the concept of protecting the innocent, however the BAD LIST of BAD PEOPLE from Gilmer County in this story are ... Can I have the envelope please?

1. Gerald B Hough
2. Tara Kennedy
3. Shelly Morris DeMarino
4. Nasia Butcher
5. Jay Chambers

Recently an official complaint was made against TARA KENNEDY for wrongdoing and not one darn thing has been done about her bad behavior. It is important that the people that get CAUGHT covering for these people also be held accountable.

Can we have the protecting people list please?

By Council of Concerned Citizens on 02.20.2012

From the entry: 'G-LtE™: Failing Systems at All Levels'.

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Y’all…..  I’ll bet anyone a donut, give ol’ Mz Marple a scale, she can’t fine ONE student in the whole, entire, great State of West Virginia one, just one, kiddie with an ol’ 50 pound bookbag.  Its rumored we’re paying 165k a year for this thinking?  LMAO

By keep diggin' y'all.. on 02.19.2012

From the entry: 'State School’s Superintendent Looks to Address WV Education Audit'.

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Dear Mr. William Parker,

I have had an abortion. I committed murder, plain and simple. I will regret it until my dying day. I cannot create life, so how dare I destroy it. By the grace and love of God I have been forgiven. However, there are some abortions that are not murder. 

  Let me assure you that there are thousands of people who would adopt a child.  Personally, I always wanted at least twelve (12) sons in order to have my own baseball and basketball teams. You now have a name. 

Yet, I know that I am not alone for there are multiplied hundreds, if not thousands, of foster parents across this very nation who adopt children that have been placed in their homes. Plenty of barren couples want these children as well.

FYI - I’m a proud graduate of Gilmer County High School. Please, forgive my grammar and writing skills. I am only human. Thank you.

By Deana J. Burke on 02.19.2012

From the entry: 'WV: Bill Would Ban Abortions after 20 Weeks'.

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It has been stated here, the GC community financial health is tied closly with GSC financial health.
Can anyone provide these few statistics?
A graph showing the GSC incomes from 2000?
A graph showing the GSC indebtedness from 2000?
A graph showing the GSC asset values from 2000?
Then mark the year Pete came to town on said graphs?
Bet there would be more questions than answers.

By Ben Dover on 02.19.2012

From the entry: 'CommunityConcerns™: How Did Glenville State Fare with Its Report Card?'.

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Congratulations Mrs. Marple as March 01, 2012 will be your first year anniversary as WV State Super. Of Schools. The Gilmer County School System has shown much improvement since the takeover. You and Mr. Blankenship with the help of our Gilmer County High School administration has been a tremendous success in turning our school system around. For those who are unaware of what has been done I want to list 5 major changes you have made since the take-over:

1. ummmmm
2. ummmmm
3. well
4. ummmmm
5. I’m still thinking

Oh yeah, now I remember…...ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!! But then this is what “the powers” to be want, so guess you are doing the job very well. Students of the county are real APPRECIATIVE of the concerns and efforts put forth by the State School System for them. As the ole saying goes, “ With friends like you, who needs enemies.“

By Improvements for 2012 ??? on 02.19.2012

From the entry: 'State School’s Superintendent Looks to Address WV Education Audit'.

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Some GCHS graduates say “I seen,“ because they heard it at home growing up. I have heard many teachers correct this type of grammar over and over without success. Much of the blame lies in the home. And I doubt very seriously if that problem is unique to Gilmer County. In fact, I know it is not. It is a problem statewide, including among students at WVU.

By anonymous on 02.19.2012

From the entry: 'WV: Bill Would Ban Abortions after 20 Weeks'.

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Is Mrs. Marple (Mrs. Darrell McGraw) really doing the students a favor by taking away their 50 lbs. bags and replacing with little computers? I say not. She is helping them to get fatter! Kids need all the exercise they can get. They are already spending enough time using their digital devices and playing games using them. Mrs. Marple and educators are giving in to the equipment manufacturers and those who lobby for them. She says her plan will complete in year 2020!! Does she not know in 6 years her plan regarding technology will be obsolete?

By WatchDog on 02.19.2012

From the entry: 'State School’s Superintendent Looks to Address WV Education Audit'.

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Ms Marple said , re the computers, It would enable students “to access the whole virtual world and will be able to learn 24-7,“ Marple said. “[They] can stop carrying 50-pound book bags because they can have PDF files on their computers to access textbooks.“

So, what she is saying is that ALL students could be homeschooled if they had computers. How do they think homeschoolers operate?  You can access teachers online, from your house or wherever you happen to be.  If Ms Marple thought this out, she would suggest eliminating most buildings, nearly all busing, have well paid teachers available for student consultation online and save millions of dollars a year.  Education should be based on children learning, not on buildings and employees!

By Karen Pennebaker on 02.19.2012

From the entry: 'State School’s Superintendent Looks to Address WV Education Audit'.

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According to reliable information a senior VP on the College’s payroll actively campaigned against Dr. Simmons’ hiring with the threat that if he were to be hired the State takeover would occur. The effort expended with interference in local affairs should have been directed at swamp cleaning at the College. Had Dr. Simmons been installed he would have been a treat to those running the College because he would have advocated for full transparency and accountability. That is what the College’s power crowd fears. Take Ike’s aborted project at Pioneer Field. Why the news censorship? Why don’t they openly admit that the highly publicized promises made to the community won’t be kept, the project has been stopped, its scope is being pared back, and the job is up for rebidding? No, they think that they can pull off their deception unnoticed because Gilmer’s citizens have impaired memory spans.

By Hap Jenkins on 02.19.2012

From the entry: 'CommunityConcerns™: How Did Glenville State Fare with Its Report Card?'.

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Pete White and everyone.  You say “mind blowing!“ ?  No.  Not really.
The community for the past 20+ years, has known that GSC operates as “GSC does”.
It has gone dramatically downhill since Dr Simmons retired.  Nothing made public anymore.
Until after the fact.  Hide behind a big, tall wall of silence.  The GSC “gang” knows whats best for GSC….and everything else in GC I will add.  Whats a lie or two here and there?
This is the elitist way of operation.  We do it because we can and because of who we are.
But, Mr White, hang tight.  The wind has changed direction.  The smelly ‘stuff’ is slowly floating to the surface.  People do not have the fear of open discussion and talking like was once the
case in the “Land of Gil”.  If you have “right” on your side, you do not have to be afraid anymore.
Even the County Commission headed by Mr Kennedy himself, says we need “transparency”.  Now, don’t misunderstand, these changes are not happening willingly.  They know they best start to clean up the smelly stuff or they will be finding themselves smack dab right in the middle of it.
Think about the recent court case with the College, the lawyers, the PA, all in the middle of it.  The stench could be smelled all the way to Charleston.  Why do you think that Freedom of Information Lawsuit was filed?  Nothing like getting caught with you hand in the cookie jar.
These elitists do no longer make the community look bad.  They are turning the spotlights straight upon themselves.  Knowing the skeletons in the closets of some running for elected office, they might want to reconsider and withdraw there election bids.  The pot is simmering pretty good now.  It will boil over at some point.  These candidates know just what I am talking of..  Couple of them should run from the election.
Secrecy will no longer be tolerated.  Wrong doings will, and those doing it, also will be exposed.
Perpetrators of ill, deceit, back room deal making, are all on thin ice.  The ice is melting.
Mr Ramazan’s Gilmer Free Press is shining on that thin ice.  Thank you Mr Ramazan for all you are doing for our community.

By anon on 02.19.2012

From the entry: 'CommunityConcerns™: How Did Glenville State Fare with Its Report Card?'.

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So sorry to hear this Dave. Till you meet again.

By Donnie & Paula Stout on 02.18.2012

From the entry: 'Lois Ann Conner'.

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Mind blowing! Prior to Larry Chapman and Brian Kennedy approving the $28,000,0000 County bond issue for Goodwin Hall, College officials including the two Butcher brothers claimed the dorm was needed to accommodate the overflow from Picken’s Hall due to an enrollment surge, Ike campaigned for the bond issue with gusto, and it went through without voter approval. Now we learn that the Picken’s Hall overflow claim was untrue, it is no longer used to house students, the College purchased a motel claiming that the space was needed for the criminal justice program, and we learned that the highly celebrated enrollment surge was engineered by enrolling prison students. Did any of this involve fraud? We need an investigation, preferably by the feds. Tell us where any of this is wrong.

By Pete White on 02.18.2012

From the entry: 'CommunityConcerns™: How Did Glenville State Fare with Its Report Card?'.

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Follow the process. Ensure that solid evidence exists. If it exists file a formal complaint with Blankenship by certified return mail with a copy to Dr. Marple by certified return mail. If action is not taken immediately consider naming them in a heavy duty lawsuit if a good lawyer experienced with bullying cases advises that the issue is legally actionable.

By I. Reed on 02.18.2012

From the entry: 'G-LtE™: GCHS Bullying'.

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That’s the problem Dr. O’Cull.  The school boards are expected to “play ball” and have no power.  That is no way to bring accountability to administration.  Will the SBA approve the two projects submitted for Gilmer County schools?  One elementary school for us and another blending our students with and in Lewis County.  You managed to get the facilities plan done the way the local level ball players wanted.  Where were the students as constituents in that?

By When will you be Accountable? on 02.18.2012

From the entry: 'West Virginia School Board Association Meeting in Charleston'.

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We can talk this bullying mess to death.  It is wrong.  Nothing seems to be getting done about it.
The State BOE is inept at the very least?  They now are the “owners” of the Gilmer County School District Debacle.  They have improved little to nothing?
Some things may actually be worse?  There is constant turmoil and complaints?  You remember who the two persons were, who talked down to our fellow Gilmer citizens.
Correct me if I am wrong, but I believe one was Mz. Marple and the other was Mrs. Senator Manchin.  Its “their” mess, they “own” it.  Have they done anything?
Do we still have an incompetent administration running the show?  The longer this goes, the better it proves the results of all the reports and surveys to be correct.  I am loving this.
They have dug their own hole.  Reports confirm it.  They are likely bumfuddled by their own actions.  We still have the same issues they complained about, and getting worse, because they apparently have no stomach to fix it.  Remember poor MacDowell County school system.
After being under state control for 10 years, Mrs Senator Manchin (Gayle) goes on television saying they now have a Five Year Plan for MacDowell schools.  What a funny dang deal.  It took them TEN years to put together a FIVE year plan…....they tell us will be the “Model for West Virginia Schools”!  Isn’t that a blast!!?  ROTFLMBO ! 
And then check out all the job postings for the GC school district.  Look very closely at the spelling.  And its been that way for a long, long time.  Hollywood writers couldn’t write this stuff!

By Lets Hope the Coalition Can Fix It! on 02.18.2012

From the entry: 'G-LtE™: GCHS Bullying'.

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I seem to remember a group of teachers who kept our children in our schools when they had a regular Student Assistance Team. This group of dedicated teachers met every afternoon if needed. They gave of their time to any and every student - even when the student did always appreciate it.

This SAT group of teachers led an “Alternative Group” every week where students met in group session, exercised(walking) and did community service around the school.  Students who did their required service often came back - I know I did. What did students do to get into this group? fighting, tobacco use, yelling at teachers, skip school, and the like….as I recall, it was in county policy. I think it was in the Safe and Drug Free School policy. We always had four or five in the group.

The teacher who led the group was about the only teacher at the high school who showed he cared in deeds, and words.

By annonymous - myrtle beach, sc on 02.18.2012

From the entry: 'G-LtE™: GCHS Bullying'.

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It is a testament to how well the schools in Gilmer county are doing when many, many of it’s graduates use such poor grammar. “I seen” is one of the glaring examples. Can a child from Gilmer county keep up with students at WVU?

By Just wondering on 02.18.2012

From the entry: 'WV: Bill Would Ban Abortions after 20 Weeks'.

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Information in the Report Card has triggered intense demand for full transparency and accountability at the College. Emphasis shifted away from a mission of providing quality educations at affordable prices to building and appearances. Regarding finances, the unit cost concept is basic in the private sector. It would be revealing for accurate accounting to occur to include all costs, obvious and hidden, to document the total institutional cost per bachelor’s degree produced at the College for comparison to that cost at other State colleges and universities. The exercise would have to include a thorough analysis of finances of the Pioneer Athletics Club, the Foundation, the Research Corporation, and the Housing Corporation. Presently, financial dealings are hidden to promote beliefs that a shell game is operating at the College.

By W. Asherton on 02.18.2012

From the entry: 'CommunityConcerns™: How Did Glenville State Fare with Its Report Card?'.

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The low number of bachelor degrees indicates in part that the enrollment numbers have been inflated by inmates at the prison. It’s doubtful that the inmates are enrolled in programs to attain a four year degree.

The other indicator is the drop out rate. Those students won’t receive degrees from GSC.

When the college replaced a perfectly good steel roof on the Fine Arts Building because it was the wrong color, you get some insight into the BOG’s priorities. Apparently the BOG is more concerned about how things look, and athletics of course, rather than how well the college is doing academically.

The nursing program fiasco, which previously surprised the BOG, shows how out of touch the BOG is.

What happened to the foreign students on the campus? What’s the number of out of state students vs in-state students at the college?

The college may see this as an us vs. them situation, but most know that without the college in Gilmer County, the county will suffer greatly.

By anon on 02.18.2012

From the entry: 'CommunityConcerns™: How Did Glenville State Fare with Its Report Card?'.

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The Report Card is crammed with numbers in need of interpretation. For one example, look at page 12. If the FTE count for 2010 for each of the eight bachelor’s awarding institutions (8) is divided by bachelor’s degrees awarded in 2010 by that institution, Glenville State ranked 7 out of 8 for a poor showing. Does this suggest that graduating West Virginians with bachelor’s degrees in no longer emphasized at the College, there is an unbalance of students not enrolled in bachelor’s programs or does the statistic relate to the College’s students having to take more than four years to graduate? Regardless, it is justified to ask if the College is giving WV taxpayers their money’s worth compared to the other institutions? Dr. Barr and BOG members, this is the type of close scrutiny coming down the pike.

By R. Coglin on 02.17.2012

From the entry: 'CommunityConcerns™: How Did Glenville State Fare with Its Report Card?'.

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Thanks so much for getting this on her so quickly. Greatly appreciate your help in our advertising.
 

By Lisa K Smarr on 02.17.2012

From the entry: 'Gilmer County Park and Recreation Center Meeting - Monday - 02.27.12'.

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Thank you for the analysis of Glenville State College’s information in the report card.

Unlike every other college or university in WV except one, the male enrollment significantly exceeds the female enrollment. This is further evidence that prison inmates have been a primary source of GSC’s enrollment growth.

It would also account for the relatively small amount of four year degrees awarded by the college given the enrollment

The college is facing a future without the diversity of programs offered by competing schools. Instead the board of governors seems to have chosen to give the college what appears to be a face lift in the hope of attracting students. Has that worked?

If WV enters a financial crisis like many other states, what will prevent GSC from ending up on the chopping block or being transferred to the control of another institution like Fairmont or WVU with the corresponding loss of local jobs?

By anon on 02.17.2012

From the entry: 'CommunityConcerns™: How Did Glenville State Fare with Its Report Card?'.

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Look at what happened when one student attacked another student sending him to the hospital via squad transport.  4 Days suspended and back in the classroom causing trouble again.

By Just An Opinion on 02.17.2012

From the entry: 'G-LtE™: GCHS Bullying'.

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Lots of propaganda talk from the ‘hill’.
Lots of straight talk from the report ‘card’.
This old saying rings so true:
“Figures don’t lie, but liars can figure.“

By anonymous on 02.17.2012

From the entry: 'CommunityConcerns™: How Did Glenville State Fare with Its Report Card?'.

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Very interesting. First, there is no Mr. Parker, It was made up to provide credibility to the post.  It’s easier to attack a person. The real issue is woman’s rights.
A note to. Marissa Fox, You say you will “help find a home for the baby”, I’m calling BS.  Exactly how much will this “helping” cost in $$, and how do we contact you. We don’t believe that you are sincere.
 
A note to Amanda, You are obviously ignorant. You really need to use a grammar checker before you RIGHT your post. Also, Like I asked, give me a name of someone who is willing to adopt.

To JR Smith, you’re on the right track. Thank you. And you say, “should the baby pay the price,“ The answer is of course not. Abortion is the answer.

And for you Margaret Collins. Exactly what gives you the right to call it murder, That’s the voice of an ignorant inbred. I mean, WWJD. Won’t you please adopt an unborn child, or would that interrupt your soaps?  See ya in Church.

By William Parker on 02.16.2012

From the entry: 'WV: Bill Would Ban Abortions after 20 Weeks'.

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Its amazing that a man ( William Parker) would right such comments. First of all have you given birth ?  Have you carried a baby for 9 months ? Have you looked a monitor seeing your baby for the first time and hearing their heartbeat ?
On another note do you know anyone who has lost a baby, who tries every day to get pregnant but can’t ?
Talk to one of those woman William Parker and they would tell you they’ll be waiting at the clinic and yes they would take any baby that was unwanted because those are the woman who want to be mothers and would never turn down the opportunity to have a baby.

By Amanda on 02.16.2012

From the entry: 'WV: Bill Would Ban Abortions after 20 Weeks'.

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In 1975 was attending full days of school.  It is kindergarten.  We are expecting children at this age to spend a full day developing social skills not build a Sherman Tank.  Besides in most average homes both parents are working so if their five year old is not in Kindergarten where are they going to be a babysitter? daycare?  It is all about the same isn’t it?  Besides there is a good chance that at least with a full day of school the child will get at least two nutritional meals.  Why be upset?

By Just An Opinion on 02.16.2012

From the entry: 'West Virginia Leads Most Other States in Offering All-day Kindergarten'.

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@ Dan Bingman….I am sorry that you took my statement so offensively.  I apologize, but I do know exactly what i am talking about….more than you know! It was not down sizing the crime that Casey committed, but stating it was a misdemeanor.
Should he have had more of a sentence?  Yes!  But he plead no contest, which gave him less of a sentence.
If he would have fought it and been found guilty he would have gotten 30 days in jail, replaced with a 1 year probation, and if he broke that he would serve the 30 days. I hate what you went through, but like I said it is problems with the laws and the judicial system.

By concerned parent on 02.16.2012

From the entry: 'G-FYI™: GCHS Teacher Pleads No Contest'.

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My name is Marissa Fox. Please contact me if you are considering an abortion. I will meet you at the hospital on the day of the birth of your child and help you find a home for your baby, if you feel like you can not provide it yourself. Thank you.

By Marissa Fox on 02.16.2012

From the entry: 'WV: Bill Would Ban Abortions after 20 Weeks'.

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William, the state needs to set a child limit of 2 so welfare bums can’t keep having kids for the sake of more money. I also think they should drug test them which would help weed out a lot of them from our system. I for one would pay for that child over their mom and dad’s drug habit. For those of you that will read this and say drug testing is against are rights, Drug testing is not infringing on any one’s rights by the way. Any state and federal employee are subject to random drug testing. They earn state and federal wges BY WORKING. Same should go for those who collect state and federal support who are to LAZY TO WORK (this is a whole other topic in itself). Abortion is not a get out of jail free card and that’s how it is being used. People need to step and take responsibility for their actions. I understand there are exceptions, but most of the time those don’t apply. The baby didn’t choose for mommy to lie on her back so should the baby pay the ultimate price William?

By JR Smith on 02.16.2012

From the entry: 'WV: Bill Would Ban Abortions after 20 Weeks'.

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I say again, Just what gives you and or any government the right to decide on abortion? You presume to say that a woman should serve, for the rest of her life, a sentence of attempting to raise an unwanted child in this day and age. She goes on welfare if she’s not already parked at DHHR and you folks will be the first complaining of the costs of taking care of this unwanted burden on society. Lets see $6.00 for a sixpack of bud light, $5.00 for a pack of Marlboro’s at the carry-out, $291,000 to raise a child to the age of 17. Then that child goes on welfare…priceless. Well maybe you folks don’t mind paying that,  I mean you’re probably on welfare already, But I do. 
And, In addition, I challenge you to give me the name of a person. who qualifies to be sane to go with me to an abortion clinic and take the first alive baby flying down the chute. Come on, “Show me the money”, Or shut up.

By William Parker on 02.15.2012

From the entry: 'WV: Bill Would Ban Abortions after 20 Weeks'.

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Your right Mr. Editor on life is definitely not all sugar coated and positive things. I guess we all have to take the good, the bad and the ugly.

The prison is ugly for our community due to the fact in the back of our minds we wonder if the time will come of an escape not caught.
It has brought more people into our community. New residency/or passing threw. These people have put forth spending their time and money at our local stores. One would know that if they had the time to stop and observe.
The bad, not so bad. It is sad that we lost a local grocery store. However; we have gained a bigger and much better Dollar General. Hopefully this will help our local residents pocket,by not having to go out of town to find better bargains.

Our Hospice Store is a good thing. Hospice is about helping the needy,and sick. I don’t see a closed signed on the door. 
My motto: “over look what you can’t change,and look what you can do for your community.“

By Anonymous on 02.15.2012

From the entry: 'G-LtE™: A Chuckle Today'.

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Nasia Butcher’s name has been mentioned countless times on this web site and others addressing issues in Gilmer County. There is no doubt that she is a controversial figure contributing to building anger and turmoil associated with the State’s take over of our schools. Without attacking Mrs. Butcher or saying anything negative against her, why does Dr. Marple not take a courageous leadership step by replacing Mrs. Butcher with another principal? That act alone would be invaluable to the State in beginning to help restore harmony and cooperation in the County to benefit our children. What do you say, Dr. Marple?

By C. Short on 02.15.2012

From the entry: 'G-FYI™: GCHS Teacher Pleads No Contest'.

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To the man who says he is not from this planet.  Is it any of our business what a woman does to her body? No…you are right, providing it is ONLY HER body she is harming. But that changes when it is destroying the life of a unborn child, that is murder in the 1st degree for she knew exactly what she was doing and killed that unborn child and any Dr. that performs an abortion is guilty too. It is a human being. This baby did not ask to be born, but did not ask to die either. And yes Mr. Parker, there are many people who would step up and offer to take the baby in place of abortion if given that opportunity.

By Margaret Collins on 02.15.2012

From the entry: 'WV: Bill Would Ban Abortions after 20 Weeks'.

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To Concerned Parent

“Truth be known, this is only a misdemeanor, so the punishment was not expected to be severe!“

I actually take great offense at that statement, since I was convicted of a misdemeanor in Gilmer County that not only am I completely innocent of!

I GOT ONE YEAR IN JAIL ON A MISDEMEANOR CONCERNED PARENT!

That time greatly effected my health and two men that were in my pod that got staff infections like I did from a dirty jail that were my same age DIED shortly after being released, and one of them within three days after his release.

WAKE UP! You have absolutely NO IDEA what you are talking about!

It really ###### me off that you are that uniformed!

By Dan Bingman on 02.15.2012

From the entry: 'G-FYI™: GCHS Teacher Pleads No Contest'.

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Well William Parker, You may not care and it may not be anyone’s business. However, do you think it was that baby would have said “hey mom create me then kill me” I don’t figure so. Now I agree in some cases, for instance: rape, having the baby may kill the mother (if mother is unaware when she gets pregnant), or if the baby is going to be born with severe medical problems casuing harm. Having said that, the baby didn’t choose for her mom to get in a drug or drunken stooper and not realize what she was doing, that baby didn’t choose for her mom to not use birth control or any other type of contraception, and that baby didn’t tell her mom to lie there and have sex in the first place. Women and men who make these choices need to except the consequences. They can’t be given a get out of jail free card. Don’t want a kid or risk having a kid. then don’t take you clothes off to begin with. The baby I bet would choose adoption over being killed. Wouldn’t you have?

By JR Smith on 02.15.2012

From the entry: 'WV: Bill Would Ban Abortions after 20 Weeks'.

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My 11 year old is overweight. He was completely on track with his size until he started school. By his second year (Kindergarten), he had started to get heavier. I agree with the idea of the time spent on the bus, but what about recess and PE? The kids in Gilmer County get PE two or three times a week for about 40 minutes - minus the 10 to 15 minutes they spend changing in and out of gym shoes and going to the bathroom. Then they have one substantial break a day after lunchtime. Children can learn as much by doing as by sitting in front of a computer for 90 minutes a day. Our public schools are robbing our kids in so many ways…...
And for anyone who’s wondering….I don’t give my kids a lot of junk food. They eat food we canned from our garden in the winter and fresh food from the garden in the summer.
Kids just don’t get out and play like they used to.

By Rose on 02.15.2012

From the entry: 'Childhood Obesity A Public Health Crisis for West Virginia'.

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As a parent I do not understand how in any circumstance that the child could be at fault.  I know Casey and have been friends with him for a while. I agree that he is very nice, and very generous, but that does not change the fact that he acted irresponsible and negligent.  His behavior is very suspicious.  When a child is intrusted with another adult, especially a teacher, that child should never be put in a position of deciding morals.  That is the adults position to set a good example, not to make that child another statistic.
Concerning the judgement…..the problem is not who decided the judgement, but the laws themselves.  Truth be known, this is only a misdemeanor, so the punishment was not expected to be severe.  It is the judicial system in itself, not so much the people in the system. As for his job, that has been left to the state.  They will investigate the matter. They will take in consideration the safety of ALL the students and make their decision.

By concerned parent on 02.15.2012

From the entry: 'G-FYI™: GCHS Teacher Pleads No Contest'.

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I’m not from this planet, but I really don’t understand why it’s anybody else’s business what a woman does with her body.
As far as any abortion goes, I want to see the first person step forward and say “wait, don’t abort, I’ll take the baby”.....

By William Parker on 02.15.2012

From the entry: 'WV: Bill Would Ban Abortions after 20 Weeks'.

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If I am understanding it correctly, anonymous says since this was done in Wood County and tried in Wood County that this is why the $100.00 fine and $160.00 court fees are proper?
Is there any REMOTE possibility that our PA told him how to plead knowing full well what the outcome would be?
Is there any REMOTE possibility that our PA talked to Wood County PA to brief them on this case?
Is there any REMOTE possibility that this is “you scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours?
Is there any REMOTE possibly that higher ups controlled this situation?
Is there any REMOTE possibility that he will lose his job as a teacher in Gilmer County? Just sayin’ and askin’ !!!

By Just askin' on 02.15.2012

From the entry: 'G-FYI™: GCHS Teacher Pleads No Contest'.

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To Anonymous

So, what you are saying is WOOD County is ALMOST just as Crooked as Gilmer County. Well, we know that, and so is Logan County and Clay County, they are all on the list,and it would take weeks and months of documents and files to present these facts.

The people spoke, and the outcome of that case was unfavorable to the general populous.

So please understand my argument is NOBODY GIVES A Darn SCARLETT what the jurisdiction is!

The outcome of the “CASEY” case is a matter of concern for citizens of Gilmer County, and if you think we are going to buy the old, “Our law enforcment, PA and courts had nothing to do with the case,“ well then we have some slum lord HOUGH properties we would like to sell ya.

By Anonymous on 02.15.2012

From the entry: 'G-FYI™: GCHS Teacher Pleads No Contest'.

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Is it Nasia’s call of whether or not to fire Casey and if not who has the responsibility? Maybe the issue must go up the chain of command to stop with Dr. Marple because of the State’s take over of our schools. It would be interesting to know what each of our elected board members thinks about the issue. It is fair to ask Nasia what she thinks should be done.

By R. Strother on 02.15.2012

From the entry: 'G-FYI™: GCHS Teacher Pleads No Contest'.

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Before people spout off they should note that the alleged crime occurred in WOOD COUNTY and the penalty was assessed in WOOD COUNTY. Our law enforcment, PA and courts had nothing to do with the case because they had no jurisdiction. Not taking up for anybody or putting anybody down, it’s just the facts. Now what happens to his teaching career and position in Gilmer County is another matter entirely.

By anonymous on 02.14.2012

From the entry: 'G-FYI™: GCHS Teacher Pleads No Contest'.

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A comment on here by TAMMI is different than what most everyone else sees.
This teacher had a minor MALE student in another County, many miles from home, no other persons with them, alcohol, and the teacher had sleeping pills. This is not a normal situation, not proper and should not have been allowed. It spells TROUBLE. Why did this upstanding and honest person and who would do no harm to anyone offer “gifts” to several other MALE students?
Why was he told to enter a no contest plea? If the writer of the comment would do a search on What does a No Contest plea in a Court Room mean she will get the reason why he pleaded this. The student should not have drunk the alcohol, but it should not have been offered to him to begin with by the teacher. The ones who “live in glass houses” as you put it are not throwing stones, just stating plain facts of a improper situation that this teacher was in control of. Stand behind him 100% if you wish, but you are of the wrong gender so it wouldn’t matter. It’s wrong, plain and simple. This man has NO BUSINESS around kids and should have been fired immediately. Tammi do you have sons and would you trust them to be with this man alone?

By anonymous on 02.14.2012

From the entry: 'G-FYI™: GCHS Teacher Pleads No Contest'.

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TAMMI—Many folks in the community know Mr Smith.  I do suspect that if this incident had involved a child of yours,you likely would feel quite different.  What if the outcome had been different, a serious accident of some type or ever a death.  Not likely you be Mr Smiths’ cheerleader.  Qaddafi, Assad, Bin Laden, all had their supporters as well.  Just a word of warning, choose carefully whom you support and stand behind.  The next time could involve a real tragedy.  All of this said now, will there actually be a tragedy in our communities future because Mr Smith will still be in the midst of our fragile and impressionable children? If something more happens, the blame will rest squarely on Blankenship, Butcher, and Marple.  When people ‘'get away’‘ with something, everytime, human nature is to be emboldened, and history will repeat itself.  Let us hope this is not the case.

By Anonymous on 02.14.2012

From the entry: 'G-FYI™: GCHS Teacher Pleads No Contest'.

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So….trusting a student too much?! How does that make ANY sense? He was in a position of trust and he allowed this student to drink, underage. But, let’s go ahead and blame the child because this guy is scum, grooming him for who knows what. No upstanding, law respecting citizen should ever put a MINOR in a position where he’d have to “trust” the child wouldn’t tell. If you have to “trust” a student, you probably shouldn’t be doing it. Children look to adults to set standards, be the example…..and personally, this is no lesson I want my children to learn from a teacher. Ever.

By Parent on 02.14.2012

From the entry: 'G-FYI™: GCHS Teacher Pleads No Contest'.

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I have known Mr. Smith for many years and he has always gone out of his way to help anyone who needed help.  He is an upstanding and honest man, who would not do anything to harm anyone.  The only thing that he may have done wrong, is to use bad judgement on trusting a student too far.  So those of you who “live in glass houses, should not throw stones”.  I am behind you, Casey 100 percent.

By TAMMI on 02.14.2012

From the entry: 'G-FYI™: GCHS Teacher Pleads No Contest'.

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They don’t see that the problem is because kids sit on a bus to go to school, sit in school; after 6 hours of school, they get on a bus, sit, go home.  In the winter, it’s about dark.  They sit in front of TV or computers (or smart phones), maybe sit and do homework, and go to bed.

Meanwhile, they eat as much or more than people did when they walked to and from school, had time to play outside, and even did some work like haul firewood or feed chickens. Most kids get no exercise.

Look at the calorie consumption of kids who snack on prepared snacks before, during and after school!  A lumberjack doesn’t need that many calories.

Now, with the push to send kids to school younger and younger, kids get fat faster and earlier.  Society caused this mess when they took the responsibililty for raising children away from parents and gave it to governments!

By Karen Pennebaker on 02.14.2012

From the entry: 'Childhood Obesity A Public Health Crisis for West Virginia'.

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Teacher shortage? Braxton county has had major rif lists for the past two years! We are all wondering when we will lose our jobs because we are supposedly overstaffed. Great teachers are being lost every year!

By Mrs. S on 02.14.2012

From the entry: 'Bills Advance to Increase West Virginia Teacher Pool'.

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Well well. SURPRISE SURPRISE SURPRISE

“Gilmer County elites” scores again in crimes being committed and nothing being done. We might as well place an ad in all the state papers and tell all criminals to come to Gilmer County if you want to commit a crime and do NO time. A disgrace to our people, our County and our State but most of all it is a disgrace to our students of Gilmer County that they see we have no law to protect them or any other honest person. Parents protest and remove your students from school until the State Board of Education, who remember is now in control of Gilmer County schools, has the BACKBONE TO STAND FOR WHAT IS THEIR DUTY AND THE JOB THEY ARE BEING PAID BIG BUCKS FOR. What a waste. A fine of $100.00 and $160.00 in court cost…..not bad. This was in all probability paid by the Principal of GCHS. Cheap enough that maybe they will try again since it is “do the crime” and “do NO time” and “not much fine”. Did this teacher lose his job? Hah check in other counties and see what happens to their teachers. Oh ya, and there is no bullying going on in the school either. TV news where are you? Please come to Glenville. Are you proud “elites” of what you have done to this county in exchange for control.
Wonder who told him to plead “No Contest….hmmmmmm?“

By Come to Glenville on 02.14.2012

From the entry: 'G-FYI™: GCHS Teacher Pleads No Contest'.

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I would assume that this perpatrator of bad deeds has been fired?  Or is Mr Easy Money covering for Jones as well as who he was sent by Charleston to protect?

By Anonymous on 02.14.2012

From the entry: 'G-FYI™: GCHS Teacher Pleads No Contest'.

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Now you see how they do it?

An elite PET does something absolutely disgusting and against the norms and mores of society and he gets a slap on the wrist.

I don’t know about everyone else, but I am getting sick and tired of METZ with his refusing to accept complaints against public officials even though evidence confirms a crime was committed.

Gerry Hough actually protects rapists and then puts women AT RISK just to preserve the image of GSC, and now of course this, Nasia’s q***r PET BOY walks!

I submit to everyone that this decision can not be accepted, but it was JUST OK with Gerry Hough!

We need to remove the public officials from office that continually put everyone’s children and women at the college in danger.

It has become a public safety concern.

By Anonymous on 02.14.2012

From the entry: 'G-FYI™: GCHS Teacher Pleads No Contest'.

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Rest assured that an analysis of the Report Card’s implications for the College is being done for posting on the GFP soon to enable citizens to judge for themselves.

By GSC ALUM on 02.13.2012

From the entry: 'Injury Suit against Glenville State Set for August'.

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Here’s an idea:  Let’s all go to the Dinner and everybody bring their high school diploma or equivalent to the dinner and embarrass Mickey Metz into producing his and if he doesn’t have it, we can turn the dinner into a roast.  It would be a weenie roast, since Metz is such a big WEENIE.

By J.R. on 02.13.2012

From the entry: 'Gilmer County Democrat Country Dinner - 02.26.12'.

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People.  If you have *any* interest in Glenville State College,  and their future,  you really need to read this report.  The person who told you to look at page 18 and page 12 was correct.  But that is but a tiny peek.  The current administration has to be cahoots with the GSC Board of Governor’s, or is complicit in a vast cover up of the “true state of GSC”.  Administration and or the Board of Governors are either ignorant or inept.  I suspect the latter.  The Board of Governor’s is likely being spoon fed male cow dung from the top down.  Housing and tuition costs have skyrocketed.  Enrollment figures are very questionable as to what really is going on.  I would say from “male enrollment stats” that the prison or off campus numbers are incorrect.  There is something wrong with the numbers somewhere.  Some of what might be encouraging stats,  have so greatly increased,  that likely they are showing cover up,  errors,  or cooked books.  If I can find time I will attempt to analyze some of the info.  Possibly some other GSC Grad or Alumni has the time to look at this report as well,  and do an analysis of it.  Summation:  The “State of GSC”, this report points out, I have to wonder why there is no investigation of the college at the state level.  Or is there?

By Anonymous on 02.13.2012

From the entry: 'Injury Suit against Glenville State Set for August'.

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When I hear this, “We don’t tolerate election law violations no matter who tries to do that,“ Secretary of State Tennant said Sunday ...

I think to myself WHAT A PHONY, and WHAT A LIAR!!

Tennant is feeding everyone cow dookie, for where was the punishment for the three misdemeanor charges against the former Clerk Beverly Marks, and the current clerk that wants TO MAKE UP HER OWN RULES and then say, “That’s the way we always do it in Gilmer County,“

THERE WAS NO PUNISHMENT!!
For the truth, google this:
VOTER FRAUD in GILMER COUNTY COURTHOUSE! Secretary of State Natalie Tennant and SOS investigator Amber Kroening suspected in COVER UP of Voter Fraud!!

By VERY CONCERNED Citizen on 02.13.2012

From the entry: 'OddlyEnough™: WV Secretary of State Says, 'We Don't Tolerate Election Law Violations'!'.

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Look at the Report Card for 2011 posted on the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission and West Virginia Community and Technical College System’s website.

http://bit.ly/zAXqkD

Check page 18 for enrollment by FTE since 2006 and most noteworthy, the number of four year degrees awarded by Glenville State College compared to other state institutions of higher education shown on page 12. Draw your own conclusions.

By anon on 02.12.2012

From the entry: 'Injury Suit against Glenville State Set for August'.

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To Ex family member,

Why would Mr Singleton deserve everything he gets because YOU SAY he is an alcoholic? Is that a documented medical fact, or just your expert medical opinion?

Why do you bring up the son who was not there AGAIN, and AGAIN? Get over it, he was not there and is not part of the issue.

WHO SAYS Singleton struck the officer? In fact, you may consider, this is Gilmer County, the county famous for making things up and backing false evidence all the way to the Supreme Court in DC.

NO 76 year old man should have his lights knocked out. He may be suffering from a Alzheimer or some other disease, or is hard of hearing and could not judge properly the circumstance.

Ex family member, you had your say on the free press, and we have heard what you said, and all can consider your argument.

Thanks for sharing.

By Council of Concerned Citizens on 02.12.2012

From the entry: 'Gilmer County Man in Intensive Care, But Officers Deny Hurting Him – Update'.

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OMG r u really believing this *** Mr singleton is an alcoholic and deserves every thing he gets in my opinion.  He hit the officer first and should have had his lights knocked out!!!Good Job GCSD If you know this family and many of you do than you can only imagine what happened that night, I wish I could have witnessed his so called severe beating looks to me like he bumped his arm on a corner of something to get those bruises.  His Son Rodney has beat him up worse than that.  If the truth be known Rodney probably did that…Cant wait to see ya’ll loose your a**es in court LOL!!
R***** has beat up his own Dad a couple well I think 4 or fives times and beat EVERY wife that he has had 3 to be exact. He damn near killed Kendra, to be a fly on the wall

By EX-family member 4 a reason on 02.12.2012

From the entry: 'Gilmer County Man in Intensive Care, But Officers Deny Hurting Him – Update'.

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I am happy to see that those legitimately running for magistrate were forthcoming in providing their educational qualifications and experience.  What doesn’t surprise me is that Mickey Metz has not. If you have nothing to hide provide the proper documentation Sheriff!  For myself, it says a lot when someone is not willing to disclose educational or other pertinent documents when running for an elected office. It brings reasonable doubt that the document even exists.  Do the citizens of Gilmer County a favor Sheriff, withdrawal from the race and let a more qualified, professional, moral, impartial, unbiased, educated candidate hold the seat. One who has the intestinal fortitude to serve the citizens without biased and special favors.

By Retired LEO on 02.12.2012

From the entry: 'G-Editorial™: Challenge to Candidates for Gilmer County Magistrate - 2012 - Result'.

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Prof, when the County Commission authorized the 28 million dollar bond issue for the College’s new dorm citizens were told that there was increasing enrollment and more dorm space was needed badly to accommodate excess demand. Now, we are told that the old dorm is not used anymore to house students to suggest that the County was duped. County Commissioners, you are requested to update citizens on the issue to include details about how the old dorm is being used. While at it could you provide accurate trend line data for the on-campus FTE count for the past decade? If that information is withheld by Dr. Barr and the Board of Governors perhaps a FOIA would be necessary.

By Jesup on 02.12.2012

From the entry: 'Injury Suit against Glenville State Set for August'.

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The conclusion by those with access to the College’s records is that if FTEs for students who actually come to the campus to work on degrees are counted and FTEs for dual credit courses by high school students and courses for prison inmates are excluded it would require creative accounting to have a total FTE count of 1250. For those unfamiliar of why FTEs are used, the WV legislature tired of game playing with enrollment numbers and it demanded numbers to be expressed in FTEs, not head counts. As an example of how games can be played with enrollment numbers,there could be 1500 students taking one credit each. Some administrators would count that as an enrollment of 1500 students (head count). The correct way would be 1500/15=100 FTEs. Dr. Barr is invited to confirm what the current campus FTE count is and to include data for each of the past ten years to enable citizens to know the trend line.

By College Prof on 02.11.2012

From the entry: 'Injury Suit against Glenville State Set for August'.

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The Hospice Thrift Store has fired Robin Young, the manager for they say “not bringing in enough money”. Well, rumor has it, they will be taking in even less in the coming days. I have heard that some have said they will NOT be buying any more from this store, nor will they donate articles to be sold by Hospice. I have personally been in this store and purchased things and have been met by very friendly store workers and Robin is one of the most friendly people you would want to meet. The decision made by the head office will hurt the business, donated articles will decline, and many customers will not be customers any more. I AM ONE OF THOSE CUSTOMERS. I will not go back or support this organization. What a shame that this has happened and we could possibly see another store failure in the months to come. Robin you done a GOOD job and it is Hospice’s loss. Also the volunteers that worked there done good jobs and all should be commended. Wonder how the next manager and volunteers will do for Hospice??? Thanks Robin !!!

By ANONYMOUS on 02.11.2012

From the entry: 'G-LtE™: A Chuckle Today'.

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Citizens believe that emphasis at the College has shifted to construction projects and athletics instead of top rated academic programs to promote increased campus enrollment. Citizens know about construction projects including Ike’s stalled work along Mineral Road. What about the enrollment Dr. Barr? What are the yearly stats for the past ten years for full time equivalents (FTEs=total hours taken by all students on campus/15) on campus? To account for prison inmates taking training a separate data set expressed in FTEs would be informative, and it could include FTE stats for State workers coming to Ike’s criminal justice center for skill upgrading. Also, it would be informative for the yearly FTE count to be disclosed for off campus, dual credit high school courses. If there is a massive bump in enrollment as claimed what would be wrong to provide referenced data to end the confusion?

By S. Amos on 02.11.2012

From the entry: 'Injury Suit against Glenville State Set for August'.

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Whoever came up with the idea of “full day kindergarten” must have wanted to start a baby sitting service.  I have a grandson in “full day kindergarten”, which goes from breakfast through afternoon.  Kids don’t have enough time to be kids when all they do is go to school, eat and sleep.  5 and 6 year olds need 12 hours of sleep a night.  Kind of hard to do with full day kindergarten and do anything BUT go to school, eat and sleep.

If you ask me, forcing young children to keep hours illegal for industry to force on adults is pretty stupid!

By Karen Pennebaker on 02.11.2012

From the entry: 'West Virginia Leads Most Other States in Offering All-day Kindergarten'.

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Sure, the prison gave us tons of jobs and created a housing boom, Larry Chapman didn’t give himself a salary at the EDA and we know all about the Little Kanawha Parkway Authority monies and the county clerks lawsuit because they’re so honest with the tax payers. Metz has a GED he doesn’t want to show because we should just believe.  Fred HIll’s death was investigated along with every rape and drug dealing charge at the college and every one in this county gets equal protection under the law.
No one bullies or threatens anyone and proven thieves aren’t rewarded with jobs. Oh yeah, the state didn’t take over the schools.

By Gilmer Bedtime Stories on 02.10.2012

From the entry: 'G-LtE™: A Chuckle Today'.

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Are you saying that the elite of GC need to have >their< person as magistrate?  Like so the rapists don’t have to make the trip to Flatwoods?  And then have the rape charge reduced to just trespassing?  What a crock for the chief law enforcement person to do to a resident of GC!  She gets raped and then banged by the law!  How do we get word of this out, so innocent girls don’t sign into Glenville State College?  These young women are deserving of their day in court.

By keep diggin' y'all on 02.10.2012

From the entry: 'G-Editorial™: Challenge to Candidates for Gilmer County Magistrate - 2012 - Result'.

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Bullying, huh?  You want to talk about bullying?
Well, the “pro’s” at the bully process at seated, housed, and paid by taxpayer dollars right in Charleston, WV.  Yep, that’s right.  The State Board of Education.  They know how to do it and are good at it.
There is no one, not even the Governor or Legislature that can or will reign them in.  All talk.  Report after report about the BOE failures and ineptness.  Anything changing?  I think not.
You see, they know “how to do it” and then “get away with it”.  They know they are above the law, so to speak.  They are untouchable.  Who will slap their hands?  They are out of reach of voters.  Taxpayers cannot touch them.  Appears even the legislature is incapable of effecting any positive change.  The goons, thugs, bullies,  all know well they are safe.  Yes, they are the “professionals” that they claim they are.
You see they bullied Gilmer County and took control of our school system.  They very well know they were not justified in doing so.  They said we “know” that bunch of hicks up there will be a pushover.  Lets bully Gilmer County.  They know they did not give Gilmer any chance to remedy any issues they might have had.  Yay, lets go bully.  It was simply a move to cover the big butt of one of their own.  Yep, those “professionals” really stick together.  Bullying can get the job done.
So they take us over, then pay their own “professional” buddy-bully, to keep the high school administration “professional” bully on the job, doing the same old professional bullying that have the teachers and staff continually upset.  Now if the teachers and staff are continually upset, don’t you think this has an effect on all the students?  Sure, it does.  The whole school system, employees, staff and children all are suffering together at various levels.  GO! State BOE bullies!  You can almost hear their elite, Cubbie “cheerleaders” cheering.
Of course, being a bully and then getting backed up by the “professionals” in Charleston, will just empower our local bullies even more..  “Professional administrator bullies.“  We’ve got them in the ‘Land of Gil’.
Does this promote a good educational environment?  Ha!  That answer is quite obvious.
But here is the big question now folks.
Has any of the State Board of Education employee “professional” attended any of the Gilmer School Coalition meetings?
If they really wanted to get issues remedied and the school district settled on their own, they would show their faces in Gilmer County.  Have anyone seen any of them?  Do they attend any Gilmer Board of Education meetings?  Think not.
“And the beat goes on…..

By ANONYMOUS on 02.10.2012

From the entry: 'G-LtE™: GCHS Bullying'.

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Mickey METZ feels he is above the law and he has been living this way a long time, and if we knew the real truth about Mickey Metz Sheriff of Gilmer County it would shock the entire State of WV.

Metz has become a YES man for the elite and has covered for their crimes and that is his primary function.

When METZ refused the criminal complaint involving the beating of Don Singleton it only stood as a reminder how he also refused to take a legitimate complaint against Beverly Marks for removing a piece of evidence from a court case during the trail which is a CRIME.

When the complaint was made, METZ refused to take the complaint and then went to the local detachment of the State Police to try to have the person making the complaint arrested.

THIS ALL BLEW UP BIG IN THEIR FACES AND THEY WERE ALL DISGRACED IN FRONT OF OTHER LAW ENFORCEMENT—AND THE FBI HAD TO STEP IN AND PUT AN END TO IT ALL.

The matter is currently being investigated by the WVSC and HOUGH is just as guilty!

By Anonymous on 02.10.2012

From the entry: 'G-Editorial™: Challenge to Candidates for Gilmer County Magistrate - 2012 - Result'.

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Mr. Reale spoke as an advocate which is what lawyers are paid to do. Wasn’t he on Ike’s payroll? To cut him slack what he claimed, compared to cheer leading promotions by the Butchers, was tame. No, we did not get that Shoney’s, a WalMart, all those jobs, or any of the other goodies. It is easy to list what we did get. How about more crime including the drug epidemic, continuing population loss, more businesses shutting down, loss of a grocery store, and much more. Folks, this is another example of need to rely on our judgement & not that fed out by those who will profit from manipulations for personal gain.

By Red Abernathy on 02.10.2012

From the entry: 'G-LtE™: A Chuckle Today'.

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If reasonable and unbiased citizens were to evaluate information uncovered about the State’s seizure of our schools most would conclude that the action was politically motivated. What do we do now? One action that would aid in dampening the anger would be for Dr. Marple to replace administrators at the GCHS. The principal in particular is a polarizing individual contributing to a worsening firestorm. Another action would be to replace Blankenship with someone who does not have strong ties to the Butchers who are believed to have been principle players in the mess along with other members of the “Cubie” group. Who leads that group anyway and how can any of its members defend a conclusion that the County is any better of with the State in charge?

By E. Fitz on 02.10.2012

From the entry: 'G-LtE™: ODE TO THE KING - 2nd Edition'.

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