RE: WEST COLUMBIA CHICKEN PLANT
Dear Editor,
Wow. Way to dis our lovely town with your wordy and unoriginal “report.” As mentioned, Columbia is expanding. No, it is not nor ever was a “hole in the ground. ” Columbia, S.C., is a beautiful and historical city that has managed to maintain it’s southern charm and character of which you have no inkling.
The University of South Carolina resides in downtown Columbia, and the out-of-state students are beating down the proverbial door to get in. Why, you may or most likely may not ask as evidenced by your disdain for the city? BTW, do some actual research that surpasses the silly and mundane mention of a band.
Really?
This city has more to offer than a chicken plant. Yes, the House of Raeford exists and has been around quite a while. The company rented the property prior to purchasing it, just so you know. And it employs several hundred low income citizens. I agree that the free market is real and the owners have the right to continue their business. The plant is “rather important to the medium-sized city of West Columbia which lies just across the Saluda River from Columbia. Hence the “West” part.
This area is beautiful and as previously mentioned dripping with American history and southern charm.
But I digress since you incensed me with your petty and ignorant comments.
Three beautiful rivers; the Congaree National Monument, a gorgeous natural treasure and home to the tallest trees east of the Mississippi River; a hilly landscape abundantly dotted with trees featuring the Palmetto, our state tree; a seriously awesome college football stadium known as Williams-Brice that is home to the Gamecocks, packed full of 85,000 fans for every home game; as well as architecture lining the dowtown streets that dates back to the early 1800’s are some actual features of this city and area. The history is fascinating and complex.
The riverfront park is very nice. I have never been offended by the odor of chicken prossecing; the trucks hauling in the kill are up and down our highways as well. I live three miles up the Saluda River (riverfront) and there is no residual scent from the plant encroaching on my lovely view and riverside experience. I am all for capitalism and free trade. Go chop more chickens and contribute to the economy. I’ll continue to enjoy my home and the beauty here regardless. Beautiful city meets there poultry, yet paltry, match.
If you ever desire to experience real class, a city filled with friendly people who would love to have you visit, and try fantastic southern cuisine, y’all come on. But, by all means, return from whence you came.
Yours truly,
Trisha O’Toole
West Columbia, SC
***
WANNA SOUND OFF?
Got something you’d like to say in response to one of our stories? Please feel free to submit your own guest column or letter to the editor via-email HERE. Got a tip for us? CLICK HERE. Got a technical question? CLICK HERE. Want to support what we’re doing? SUBSCRIBE HERE.
Banner via iStock