A SOLDIER'S PERSPECTIVE
THE WEB'S LEADING MILITARY BLOG SINCE 2004
UPDATE - Because John Skelly is a master at manipulating words and creating controversy where none exists, I am forced to explain who my audience is after his little fiction telling fiasco on WSVA today. I did NOT write this blog addressed to the Anderson. As a matter of fact, the point of this blog was focused on people like John Skelly. When I said, “Don’t let the humble pie choke you on the way down!” I was talking to YOU, John, and the rest of the agitators involved in this issue. Nice try in attempting to make it look like I was addressing the Anderson family, but you’re way off base. Judging by the fact that you were called out on so many lies that you refused to address on the radio show, I guess I wouldn’t expect any more.
I’m not going to play “I told you so” with this post (at least, I’ll try). A lot of people have said and done a lot of very hurtful and dishonorable things to a lot of people, but especially Mr. Clayton Murwin. You can say all you want about me – your opinion about me means nothing to me. Rumor, rhetoric and innuendo have been the order of the day in a small town still dealing with the loss of one of its own, SPC Bucky Anderson, throwing around baseless accusations. The town became polarized along lines of emotion instead of rational thought on both sides.
There’s a saying that you can catch more bees with honey than vinegar (or something like that). I can’t tell you how many times I heard, “well, why doesn’t he just show me this or prove that?”, “what does he have to hide?”, etc. Clayton provided everything he was legally required to provide and cooperated with the Chief of Police and Commonwealth attorney. Local and state politicians stuck their nose in the fray to look good based on half-truths and emotion. Well, to all those people who demanded accountability, feast your eyes upon the beautiful base of the memorial that Clayton commissioned to honor our fallen troops that arrived yesterday in Broadway:
The final piece is still in production and should arrive in a couple of weeks. Don’t let the humble pie choke you on the way down!
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![[UPDATE] The “Face” of Military Dating Scams – The Wall of Shame](http://militarygear.com/asp/wp-content/themes/LondonLive/thumb.php?src=http://militarygear.com/asp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/2.jpg&w=53&h=41&zc=1&q=100)
Anatomy of a Military Dating Scam
to Anonn, thank you. i thought so. i just want a clear picture of his
Military Dating Scams (More Nigerian Scammers)
New Scam to be aware of……….I am 2LT. Anderson Darrell Clinton , an off
Anatomy of a Military Dating Scam
New Scam to be aware of……….I am 2LT. Anderson Darrell Clinton , an off
[UPDATE] The "Face" of Military Dating Scams - The Wall of Shame
New Scam to be aware of……….I am 2LT. Anderson Darrell Clinton , an off
Flag Gazer
The fact that they spelled ‘commemorated’ wrong will probably cause more problems. Sigh.
support for all troops
it’s here, that’s all we care about. Now maybe all that crap can be forgotten.
CJ
You mean all the slander and libel? Yeah, I hope so too. And I hope they are accompanied by some long overdue apologies.
Broadway Valerie
Here in Broadway we know how to spell “commemorated.” Your words are very hurtful to the family and community. Perhaps if this had been done by a committee instead of a one man SHOW, this mistake would not have happened!
CJ
Yeah, because the committee is so much smarter. Here’s a question: why did it only take one man to think of a memorial? Where was the community before their ass pain set in against Clayton? Where was the community in thinking up a memorial? Where was the community in supporting this family BEFORE this was a controversy? You talk out of both sides of your mouth. Instead of showing some intelligence and critical thinking, you fell into the same group think that has divided the community. Instead of rational thought, you continue to nitpick. If ONE MAN wants to honor the fallen, STFU!
Broadway Valerie
You are a very sad man. You sit in Texas making judgements about people and situations where you do not know the whole story. This community will honor Bucky. Did you expect this community to do it in the first 72 hours after Bucky died. We were all mourning the loss of our friend’s child, our twin’s best friend. I can tell you where I was and where I have continued to be, lending my support to a grieving family.
brat
Quote: Did you expect this community to do it in the first 72 hours after Bucky died.
No, but apparently all of the folks who demanded to see the memorial almost instantly wasted no timein libelling and slandering a decent man whose ONLY goal was to honour fallen heroes.
I would – respectfully and with correct grammar …lol – suggest that if you were as concerned as you say you were with supporting the family of a fallen hero, you would have encouraged the community to quit their stated intent to ruin Clayton. THAT served nobody – least of all SPC Anderson or his family.
I would also suggest – again respectfully – that YOU did not bother to inform yourself of the whole story; ie the whole pesky facts!
IF you had, it is my contention, not one of you would have had the inclination, or the time, to attack Clayton Murwin.
I am surprised that supporting Bucky’s family left you all so much time to be attempting to besmirch another decent man’s honour.
But hey, that’s just MY opinion.
Be sure to hurry and say THANK YOU to Clayton Murwin for his fantastic efforts.
Thank YOU, Clayton. You ROCK!
Broadway Valerie
At least in Broadway we know how to spell “Commemorated”. Your words have been very hurtful to the family and community of Broadway. Perhaps if this had been done by a committee rather than a one man show this wouldn’t have happened.
Sudsy
Someone needs to push the “Submit Comment” button only once…
Karen Klasnick
Yes, CJ, there needs to be many PUBLIC apologies.
Broadway Valerie
First one he should make is the spelling be wrong. He could start there.
Broadway Valerie
Let me correct myself. THE FIRST ONE HE SHOULD MAKE IS THE SPELLING BEING WRONG. HE COULD START THERE! NOW I FEEL MUCH BETTER.
CJ
But not grammar apparently. I thought the people of Broadway were perfect?
brat
Yes, there does need to be many public apologies, but not holding my breath.
Thanks for the update, CJ. Is good to see the progress made…..:)
Karen Klasnick
I couldn’t wait to see who was going to nitpick first….Valerie, why can’t you just admit that the memorial is awesome and just say those two words that we teach to every child….”Thank You”…oh you might want to add to the end of it…”Clayton”.
Broadway Valerie
What do you suggest be done about the misspelling on the front and the “Ashby Turner” on the back?
Karen Klasnick
Nothing. That’s what happens when you try to rush a manufacturer-MISTAKES. To be honest, none of you wanted anything to do with this memorial for a long time anyway, so why care now? AND lets be clear here – this is a manufacturing error, not an error on Clayton’s part. It is still and always will be an awesome memorial – and remember it is only half here, you haven’t seen the other half yet.
Broadway Valerie
I am personally NO longer interested. Broadway will do their OWN memorial. BUT, Karen, manufacturer error or not, he accepted it. How about those “Ashby Turner’s”? RUSHED, he ordered it in July. AND yes, I have seen the rest of it or at least what he had Kay show them “3″ days after their son was killed. I look forward to Bucky getting the memorial that he deserves, sitting at the school that he loved, and honoring others that have fallen before him.
MICKEY
Valerie HOW DARE TO DISGRACE MY SON AND BUCKY AS WELL AS ALL THE OTHER FALLEN HEROES. THE ONLY REASON YOU CAN ACT AND TALK LIKE THIS IS BECAUSE MY SON AND MANY OTHERS INCLUDING BUCKY DIED FOR YOU TO HAVE THAT FREEDOM.
GROW UP. I AM SURE YOU DON’T SUPPORT ANYTHING BUT YOURSELF, NO THAT CAN BE TRUE EITHER THE GOV’T SUPPORTS YOUR EVERYDAY NEEDS AND WANTS. GO GET A LIFE.
this goes for all who are bad mouthing this wonderful project and man who want to Honor OUR Fallen Heroes and Veterans.
Broadway Valerie
Commented edited out due to vulgarity. – CJ
Valerie
How do we like that? There are two Valeries here on opposite sides. I’m on the side of not saying anything mean, but calling it like it is. If you engage in mailicious gossip or libel, in my opinion, you have no right to complain when it comes right back on you.
Dave Briggman
Who the hell is Ashby Turner?
We have a local high school named “Turner Ashby”…but I’m not familiar with Ashby Turner.
No one was rushing anyone…the community was given a date of delivery…and we’re way the hell past that August date here on November 20.
Dave Briggman
Looks, to me, like with all of the spelling errors, the base is all but useless.
Valerie is correct, most of the people in Broadway know how to spell commemorated and know the proper sequence of General Ashby’s name.
Dave Briggman
And even if the manufacturer was being rushed, usually, proofreading is done by the requestor…in my mind, that’s Murwin.
DebGriffin
Okay, Broadway, I guess, with the loss of a very loved son and member of your community, you have to be furious at someone. I wonder, is it possible to expect the war that killed SPC Anderson to end, given neighbors can’t stop lobbing email grenades over spelling errors & timelines? I think Bucky might possibly be embarassed at all this.
CJ
Do you guys even hear what you’re saying? Throughout this entire ordeal you refer to your town as something extraneous to Clayton – as if he isn’t a part of your community. “Broadway will do its own memorial.”
When my daughter was two, she always said the same thing when we tried teaching her things: “I’ll do it myself!” she would yell as she continued to do things that made no sense. You are like a two year old.
The memorial that Clayton commissioned IS Broadway’s memorial. You people are the most immature bunch children I’ve had to deal with since my last batch of 18 year old privates. I’m beginning to see why Broadway isn’t on any list of must-see places or friendliest people.
And based on your lack of insight up to this point, I’m pretty confident you wouldn’t have noticed the spelling error had Gazer not pointed it out. You haven’t been very intuitive about anything else yet.
Valerie
As for delays and errors, that’s what happens when a design is approved, and then after that comes the indecision and flip-flopping about what’s to go on it, where it’s to go, legal hassles, constant interference…
Dave Briggman
Really?!?
Who tell hell approved “Ashby Turner Wrestling Team”?
CJ
Dave, this is so indicative of your community’s attitude the entire time. You realize that your previous arguments and complaints have left you with egg on your face and an unacceptably embarrassing show of ignorance. So, instead of realizing you’re a moron for basing your arguments off emotion rather than seeking facts, you create conflict where there is none. Your memorial argument is lost, so now we are going to pretend that mixing up a name is now a scandal. You seriously need to get a life.
supports all troops
The memorial was delayed and has these large emblems on it, words are spelled wrong, names wrong;
Reminder – THIS MEMORIAL WAS NOT MADE IN BROADWAY.
Clayton, seeing your huge emblem on there pretty much proves your self promotion. You and your pathetic friend CJ are some of the most pathetic people I’ve ever seen. I wish CJ was on that vehicle that ran over the bomb and Bucky, a fine kid, could really come home to his family and we’d never have to hear of you self promoting creeps.
Now since out of the blue the memorial shows up, where’s the rest of the money? Pressue getting too hard, huh?
CJ
Yeah, it was magic. Clayton is a miracle maker and waved his magic wand. That’s how the memorial came about. Kind of like all your bogus arguments – made up out of thin air. And now you are wishing a gruesome death to a Soldier to create other grieving mothers like Mrs. Anderson. I wonder if she’d approve of your type of support for her? I somehow doubt it. But, since you can’t really form a coherent argument any longer, I guess it’s okay to wish death upon our troops. It’s not you know anything about our kind of service anyway.
MICKEY(Gold Star Mother)
supports all troops says:”I wish CJ was on that vehicle that ran over the bomb and Bucky, a fine kid, could really come home to his family and we’d never have to hear of you self promoting creeps.” HOW DARE YOU WISH THIS ON ANY SOLDIER OR MILITARY PERSON. WHERE THE H… DO YOU GET OFF LIKE THIS. WHY WOULD YOU WISH TO HAVE ANOTHER MOTHER LIKE THE FAMILY OF ANDERSONS OR MYSELF OR ANY GOLD STAR FAMILY TO HAVE TO ENDURE LOSING THEIR SON DAUGHTER WIFE HUSBAND SISTER OR BROTHER. YOU ARE ONE SICK SON OF A GUN (me being polite)MAY GOD HAVE NO MERCY ON YOU. SOMEONE SHOULD HAVE YOU LOCKED UP FOR LIFE FOR THIS KIND OF KIND. YOU SPINELESS NO COUNT (being polite again)PIECE OF DIRT. LEAVE THIS AREA AND NEVER COME BACK
Debbie
OMG!!! “Supports All Troops”…what the hell were you thinking when you said that you wished that it was CJ that was on that vehicle instead of “Bucky”?!?!?! GET A GRIP FOR GOD’S SAKE! Arguing back and forth is not going to make the monument get there any quicker, and the spelling…my GOD, I think that Clayton accepted for fear that if he refused it, you people would hang in from the nearest tree! I am sure that the spelling can be fixed, I think Clayton just wanted to get the memorial to you so that all the bitching would end. Evidently no matter what he or CJ does or say, nothing will satisfy you people! You all have to remember that there are alot more “worse” things out there to be worried about and not grammitcal errors! Yeah, I might have spelled that wrong, well so be it! ENOUGH IS ENOUGH PEOPLE!!!
supports all troops
PS, yeah, CJ, what’s up with your egg fetish? Trying to get that one outa your a$$.
You’re right down there with the Westboro people.
CJ
Yeah, when you have no real argument, fall back on the name calling. It always works.
MICKEY(Gold Star Mother)
CJ, I truly in my heart think this troll is a large lying member of the Westboro Trolls! maybe the head one. But God will be it’s (for lack of a better description) judge! and help that soul, I am sure it will see not light only fire.
Dave Briggman
Hardly, C.J. My understanding is that this “monument” was supposed to have been delivered, in toto, back in August.
And, C.J., I’m not a lib. Please don’t pull the bullshit that I’m arguing “off emotion”.
CJ
Then don’t act like a lib. That was Clayton’s understanding too and guess what? It was delayed. So how about injecting some objective, rational thought into your head and let the facts take hold? Or, are you just so emotionally attached, you can’t do that?
MICKEY
You know Dave & Valerie and the Good People of Broadway, I have friends and family there, and You are an embarrassment not only to the majority of the community but to represent yourselves of one Gold Star Family (Anderson)
I too have lost a son to one of our current wars and you have hurt me to take and continue the nitpicking of a good intentioned man.
What a disgrace you are!!!!!
Thank you Clayton for trying to Honor our Fallen Heroes. God Bless you all! for many of you sure need it.
support for all troops
[This comment has been deleted by CJ for vulgarity. You will no longer be able to comment on this site.]
Dave Briggman
Mickey, I’m very sorry for your loss. I represent no one…I don’t live in Broadway, and neither do you…or do you?
I merely go by what some, including the man who donated $500 on behalf of Turner Ashby’s Wrestling Team and the mother of Specialist Anderson have told me — as well as what the Commonwealth Attorney to be about this “situation”, which appears to differ from the representations made on this website.
The delivery of just the BASE of a monument delivered THREE MONTHS after its scheduled delivery date isn’t nitpicking…nor are the misspellings and mangled names appearing to have been etched into the granite.
How’d you like a monument to your community’s war dead to be bought and paid for on the back on just one of the community’s war dead? Or, perhaps have words misspelled and community names mangled?
I’m betting not.
It’s only because you have suffered a death that I’m not telling you to shut the hell up…instead, perhaps “mind your own business” is more appropriate.
CJ
Dave, are you saying that the Commonwealth Attorney discussed a legal matter with you? That’s good to know. I’m sure that Clayton’s attorney needs this information.
On another note, it sounds as if you disagree with Mickey? Does that mean you don’t care about the families of the fallen? Because if that’s not the case, perhaps I am also owed an apology for believing that the Anderson family has been wrong as well. It IS possible to disagree with a Gold Star Family member and still support their sacrifices. Hopefully, you can now understand that.
MICKEY(Gold Star Mother)
Dave, I have family and friend ties in Broadway. Why not tell me to Shut the hell up so I tell you since you do not live in Broadway YOU SHOULD MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS. I know for a fact that mfg make mistakes for I have dealt with that fist hand. As for a dead line was there a dead line for how long our sons should live or how long people should Honor them. I think not. this precious Monument when finished the Right way will Honor our sons and Daughters forever. Not when it is convenient to a community or when the community has had enough from the grieving family who only wants to make sure that OUR Hero is NEVER FORGOTTEN. And don’t come back with a response telling me you will never forget because that is Bull Hockey. You will, I promise you that. Because this argument is very self serving to you and so many other.
The only way a community or individual doesn’t forget is to have sometime like this in their face. I KNOW… The Anderson’s are still in a shock stage, and that will be there for a while. You and whoever in the community will walk away at some point and leave this Grieving Family to fend for themselves and tell them they have grieved enough it is time to move on. You and some many other have no idea what it is to lose a child or sibling to these kind of conditions so back off of this and be there for this family in a month, year or even five year when they will need you even more.
As CJ said below it is ok to disagree with us but you still need to support us and help us thru our hard times because WE GAVE OUR SONS AND DAUGHTER TO YOU. WE TO HAVE GIVEN OUR ALL.
Dave Briggman
CJ, pulease.
The Commonwealth Attorney merely advised me that the investigation is being handled by the Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office. It is neither illegal, nor unethical for a prosecutor to tell me that a law enforcement agency is conducting an investigation.
It is interesting to note, that Murwin has hired an attorney and couldn’t find one within two ours of our community. Of course, if Murwin didn’t do anything “wrong”, then why hire an attorney in the first place?
CJ.
You’re in Texas, and God knows where Mickey is. I continue to receive phone calls from those in our community who have given money to this project, and feel that they have been mislead as to what the money was to be used for.
CJ
And of course, you’re not easing their worries that they’ve been mislead? No, not you. Your original comment about the Commonwealth Attorney speaks volumes. I’m sure she didn’t just say “we’re conducting an investigation” because that’s not what you said. Yes, I’m in Texas. And?
MICKEY(Gold Star Mother)
and I am in Virginia, but does that have to do with the price of eggs in China
Dave Briggman
I’d don’t know one way or or another that they’ve been mislead….I merely advise them to address their concerns to Major Hess over at the Sheriff’s Department…and direct those who call me to contact the Sheriff’s Office with their concerns.
But we do have people beginning to publish what they’ve been asserting online…a John Skelly has both published this via Facebook and sent, what is what I believe could be the world’s longest paragraph to local media outlets:
Kenny and Margaret Anderson attended a candlelight service held 3 days following the announcement that their son, Spc. Brian “Bucky” Anderson, had been killed in action in Afghanistan. Clayton Murwin who also attended the candlelight service approached the Andersons to introduce himself. He gave his condolences for their loss and made them a promise that he would memorialize their son’s name and sacrifice so “Bucky” would not be forgotten. Within the week, Kay Kibler, an acquaintance of Clayton Murwin, took Clayton Murwin’s artistic rendering of the monument to the Anderson’s home. It was very clear to all present at that time that the monument was meant to be specifically for “Bucky”. It needs to be made clear that Kenny and Margaret never asked for their son’s name to be memorialized on a monument; however, after viewing Clayton Murwin’s drawing of the monument, they understood that this monument was always intended to be for their son’s sacrifice. Clayton Murwin and his Heroes Fallen Studios, Inc. shortly began raising funds using his artistic rendering and a pencil portrait of Bucky’s military picture. Many local businesses were visited seeking donations for this monument dedicated to the Bucky Anderson Memorial Monument. During the dinner following the funeral, Mr. Murwin approached many mourners’ tables asking them for a donation to the Bucky Anderson Memorial Monument. He also collected money at a car wash fundraiser held at the Exxon station in Timberville in mid-July, seeking donations for the Brian “Bucky” Anderson Memorial Monument, which his parents attended. During all of these events, Mr. Murwin made it clear to donators that they were giving money to directly fund the Brian “Bucky” Anderson Memorial Monument. Shortly after the carwash fundraiser, Clayton Murwin announced in the Daily News-Record that all the necessary funds had been raised for the construction of the monument with a substantial surplus. He also stated in the community that the monument would be delivered in time to be dedicated at Broadway High School’s first home football game. During this time, Clayton Murwin was approached by management of the Broadway’s Domino Pizza Franchise to help design a flyer to announce a “Bucky” Anderson Memorial Monument fund drive to be held two Saturdays after the carwash event. Shortly after the Pizza’s fundraiser, Margaret and Kenny Anderson became concerned with the fundraising techniques employed by Mr. Murwin and his Heroes Fallen Studios, Inc. I have known Kenny and Margaret Anderson for the past 20+ years. I felt honored by Kenny and Margaret’s request to help them sort through questions that had arisen around the issue of a monument honoring their son’s sacrifice. They were concerned with 4 specific issues and they asked me to address them with Clayton Murwin and his organization. 1). Kenny Anderson, who attended the carwash, observed that no receipts were offered for cash donation. 2) Margaret was contacted by Domino’s Pizzas’ management and told her that their fundraiser had raised $600.00 for the Brian “Bucky” Anderson Memorial Monument. However, since it was stated in the paper that all of the necessary funds had been raised for the monument, they asked Margaret if she would prefer the cash be given to “Bucky’s” scholarship fund, which greatly excited Kenny and Margaret. Shortly thereafter, Clayton Murwin visited Domino’s Pizza inquiring for the results of the fundraiser. He was told that they collected $600.00 and since the newspaper article had reported that all the monies necessary to build the monument had already been raised, the Anderson’s wanted to donate this $600 to Bucky’s scholarship fund. Mr. Murwin become very upset with the management and demanded that the monies be turned over to his organization. He felt the money was “his” because the Heroes Fallen Studios, Inc. logo was used on the bottom of the flyer and also claiming IRS regulations requiring him to collect the money. Domino’s Pizza management team reported that Clayton Murwin made a big scene and disrupted business activities. In the end, Clayton Murwin collected the $600 from Domino’s Pizza. In the meantime, Clayton Murwin has promised to give that money to the Bucky’s Scholarship Fund; however, he has yet to make that contribution. 3) The Anderson’s had heard a rumor that Clayton Murwin was offering donors who gave $500 or more to the Brian “Bucky” Memorial Monument to have their names engraved on the back. The Anderson’s wishes were that this not be done. They felt all donations were of equal value and should not be judged on a monetary scale. These donations were collected from a community who wanted to honor Bucky’s memory — certainly not to advertise their support. 4) Andy Anderson, Bucky’s brother, had been planning a softball tournament to raise money for Bucky’s Scholarship Fund. Clayton Murwin harassed Andy until the wee hours of the morning by cell phone, insisting that Andy needed his help to raise awareness of this tournament. Andy wanted to do this for his brother and told Clayton Murwin that he did not need his help. Andy stated that he had to turn his cell phone off to stop these calls. At this point, on behalf of Kenny and Margaret Anderson, I began making phone calls and visits to Clayton Murwin and members of Heroes Fallen Studios, Inc.’s board of directors. During these calls and meetings, I asked these questions: 1) Who was keeping the financial statements on the monies collected for the Brian “Bucky” Anderson Memorial Monument fundraising efforts? 2) Had any of the money been spent? 3) What the specifications of the monument were to be and what was to be engraved on it? 4) Who was commissioned to do the actual construction of the monument and bronze artwork? 5) Was a completed monument to be ready for the first home football game as stated to me by Clayton Murwin? All of the initial calls and visits resulted in the fact that Keith Clark was their record keeper and that the monument was to be completed in time for Broadway High School’s first home football game, provided that the Rockingham County School Board would grant permission to erect the monument on school grounds. Very quickly the responses to my calls and visits turned from being cordial into a defensive posture on their part with answers that became combative. During the same time that I was asking these questions, another situation developed. Kay Kibler, a member of VFW Post #9660 Ladies Auxiliary, attended a meeting where she presented Clayton Murwin’s artistic rendering of the Bucky Anderson Memorial Monument, the same information that she presented to the Andersons. Her intentions were to secure another donation for the monument. A strong disagreement occurred among the members present. Some members did not think it was fair to represent only Bucky’s service and sacrifice when other BHS soldiers made the same sacrifice. The membership voted not to make a donation to Heroes Fallen Studios, Inc. because it was only for a Bucky Anderson Memorial. Due to this stance taken by the VFW Post #9660 Ladies Auxiliary, Kay Kibler and a few other members transferred their membership shortly after this meeting. Kay then makes Clayton Murwin aware of her transfer and why the VFW #9660 Ladies Auxiliary wouldn’t be making a contribution. Clayton Murwin acknowledged Kay’s statement, made sure he had the right VFW Post #9660 and told her that if any donations came from that VFW he would return that contribution with the notation that he was raising money for a Bucky Anderson Memorial. I met with the Andersons to discuss the results of my meetings, phone calls and conversations with Clayton Murwin and Keith Clark. Besides unsatisfactory answers to simple questions about the monument, the Andersons were now dealing with rumors that the monument was no longer a Bucky Anderson memorial; these rumors greatly upset the Andersons. Their sons’ name and likeness was still being used to raise and collect money for the monument. Shortly after the Rockingham County School Board resolution, Clayton Murwin began to change and delete information that he had posted on many websites dealing with Buckys’ monument. Why? After prodding from public officials, we were able to obtain a ledger from the beginning of fundraising through the School Board’s resolution. Studying the ledger showed that the actor Brian Krause, a TV actor, who according to news articles donated his time and efforts to help raise money for the monument. Clayton Merwin also told me personally in our first phone conversation that he had personally paid for the airplane ticket for Brain Krause.In actuality, Clayton Murwin used funds already raised from the community for the monument to pay for a 1st Class airplane ticket to fly him to Broadway along with parking fees, food and entertainment expenses totaling over $1,000. At the autograph signing session, Brian Krause claimed that he raised $650 for his autograph signing of which he donated back $500 to the fund. His visit cost the community over $500 of already donated funds given for the monument. With this revelation of the Brian Krause financial disclosures and the fact the monument was not going to be ready for the BHS’s first home football game, the Andersons’ patience and understanding was wearing very thin. With much prodding and pushing, we were able to get the Andersons to sit down with Marsha Garst, Commonwealth Attorney for Rockingham County, Pablo Cuevas, member of the Rockingham Board of Supervisors, Keith Clark, Vice President of the Heroes Fallen Studios, Inc. and myself to attempt to sort through the confusion and come to some sort of an agreement. The financial accounting shows that a check had been sent from Heroes Fallen Studios, Inc. in the amount of $6,800.00 to a group in Florida called Florida’s Heroes Fallen. At this time, Keith Clark confirmed that the check was in Florida’s Heroes Fallen and that no work had been done on the monument. Keith Clark also said there was no signed contract between the two organization and no drawing as to exact features were to be included on the monument. Marsha Garst, along with the Andersons’ input, drew a rendition of what they believed the monument was to look like. Kenny Anderson made it clear that he wanted an extra cut on the granite block to include the engraving “Freedom Is Not Free”. The Andersons stated that they wanted to pay for this extra work. Bucky’s name, accomplishments and accompanying information was to be on the front. The Anderson’s were in agreement that the emblems of the Heroes Fallen Studios, Inc. and Florida’s Heroes Fallen would be displayed on the back. All of the attendees at this meeting were in agreement as to what the monument was to look like and the verbiage to be included. The Andersons were concerned with the fact that there would be shipping costs incurred from Florida. It was agreed at this meeting that Keith Clark would get itemized prices for each part of this work plus any additional shipping. The bronze artwork was something that Kenny Anderson was going to price from a company located in Baltimore, MD. Margaret was going to follow up and get prices from local monument companies and that I would check on the possibilities of bronze plaques as opposed to engraving the monument . Then it was agreed that all parties would convene again in 3 weeks with their information. It would then be determined who was to be commissioned to do the work and what the total expenses would be; a joint announcement would be made at that time. It was agreed by all that no one would talk to the media, Keith Clark agreed and shook every bodies hand. Within approximately a week, a news article was released in the Daily News-Record quoting Clayton Murwin that the bronze and granite monument should arrive in about two weeks but was unsure as to where it was to be placed (this date was not met). Many other statements were made in that article that greatly disturbed and upset the Andersons. Clayton Murwin and the Heroes Fallen Studios, Inc. had broken all of their agreements and trust that was gained during the last meeting. At this time, Keith Clark put in his resignation from the organization. Now we felt that we needed help and advice from legal counsel. It was the Attorneys’ recommendation that we ask for mediation. Clayton Murwin and his group also retained an Attorney and a mediation session was set up for October 19th. On the mediation day, Margaret Anderson found a posting on the website for the Heroes Fallen Studies, Inc. making a statement that the granite portion of the monument had been completed and would be delivered on the 23rd of October. He also stated that the bronze work had been held up due to factory problems and that the site at BHS had been blocked. With this upsetting information, the Andersons entered the mediation session with a lot of emotion and distrust of Clayton Murwin. The session did not go well; however, a few tentative agreements were reached with Clayton Murwin. One of the agreements was that Heroes Fallen Studios, Inc. would no longer use the pencil sketch made of Bucky’s military photo in any of their fundraising efforts. In return, Clayton Murwin demanded the Andersons return the plaque (made by Blue Ridge Trophy Shop) that was given to them at the carwash event; which contained the pencil drawing done by Clayton Murwin. Clayton Murwin then provided a hand-drawn sketch of the completed granite portion of the monument with Bucky’s name and pertinent information on the front and on the back a list of sponsors who had given $500.00 in cash or in value of materials or services provided (deemed by Mr. Murwin) towards the project. The first name on this list was TV actor, Brian Krause. The Andersons were distraught with this information and immediately demanded the removal of their sons’ name from the completed monument. Clayton Murwin agreed to cover Buckys’s name with a bronze plaque using donated funds. Kenny and Margaret Anderson removed themselves from the room; thus, ending the session. The next day, I had a conversation with our Attorney and we decided to request, through Clayton Murwins’ attorney, for any picture that showed that the granite portion of the monument did actually exist. Their attorneys’ e-mail response to this request was not only confusing but also very disturbing to all. The Attorneys’ e-mail response is as follows: “It has been done but not shipped. I will be glad to have my client provide a photo upon receipt. Please caution Mr. Skelly against trying to add additional conditions to the agreement, my client compromised a lot. Obviously, if it had not already been finished, the discussions could have proceeded differently last night. Please also remind Mr. Skelly that the Anderson’s son’s name was not originally going to be on the monument, my client added his name at the request of the Andersons but have now been asked to have it covered-up. We need to let the scabs dry and heal and I know you appreciate that, I hope Mr. Skelly can come to appreciate it too.” This was a devastating response to a simple request for a picture to confirm the existence of a monument and was another blow to the Andersons’ healing process. Murwin’s attorney also informed us; the next day; that Bucky’s name had not been done, thus saving donated funds. This was the first time that it became obvious to me that Clayton Murwin and the Heroes Fallen Studios, Inc. may have another agenda. Clayton Murwin and his Heroes Fallen Studios, Inc. had been trying for over two years to publish what he calls a graphic novel relating the stories of soldiers who served in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. Until recently, he has had limited success in our community raising the funds necessary to publish his first edition. Clayton Murwin has just recently announced on his web page that the first publication will be released this month and ready to go on sale at the cost of $24.99/copy. Clayton Murwin reported the first-run cost of the graphic novel was to be $6,500.00. We all know the quoted cost for the Bucky Anderson monument was to cost $6,800.00 (Coincidence?) Not only did Clayton Murwin ignore the wishes of Kenny and Margaret Anderson not to have donors listed on the back of the monument, it was claimed that the monument was already completed, including the list of donors on the back. I have spoken with over half of the listed donors. Of these donors, none of them were consulted nor wanted their names on the back of the monument. They all said that they gave money, materials and services specifically for the Spc. Brian “Bucky” Anderson Memorial Monument. Our community has always had compassion to lend help, effort and money to any good cause; in my opinion Clayton Murwin and his organization took advantage of this and collected money that was designated for a great cause, the Spc. Brian “Bucky” Anderson Memorial Monument and has given us nothing. You truly failed to tap the full resources of this community and instead actually attempted to split the community for your financial gains to benefit the Heroes Fallen Studios, Inc. and its goals of publishing a graphic novel. The Andersons have fought long and hard because their sons’ name was used in their community to raise money. They have come to the end of the road with negotiations with Clayton Murwin and his Heroes Fallen Studios, Inc. and even went so far as to explore the possibility of legal action. The Andersons know their community understands the need for them to go back to the process of grieving this first holiday season without their son. They will no longer pursue any questions surrounding the monument nor its’ funding. All they need to get through this holiday season is a pat on the back, a handshake, a hug or a thank-you for their son. Clayton Murwin, your early actions of approaching the Andersons at the candlelight vigil to honor Bucky were not only callous but you short-circuited the communities’ ability to react to the Andersons’ loss. If Clayton Murwin and his organization are truly trying to honor any of Broadway High School’s fallen heroes, you still have a chance. If the monument has not been completed at this time, please cease and desist any actions that would spend funds already raised for any version of the monument. The money raised from this community by your organization could still be a part of the solution. Following the holiday season, the community will come together to sort through the confusion and problems surrounding your efforts. Clayton Murwin and his organization have failed to use the greatest resource that was at their disposal and that was the understanding and compassion of Kenny and Margaret Anderson. Their family now knows the pain and suffering that must be endured by the loss of a family member. They will be the leaders in commemorating and honoring all of BHS fallen heroes. They know in their hearts that Bucky would have wanted to stand proudly at the school he loved, BHS, along with his fallen comrades in arms. John Skelly
.
Carol Steward
Clayton congrats for all you have done to honor our Fallen Heros!! Just consider the “source” in regard to all the nasty remarks on here. These people need prayers really bad!! But Clayton you keep up the good work and I pray for you and your good deeds every day. CJ thanks for backing Clayton because you KNOW he is an honest wonderful person who cares about our military. As for the mouthy unintelligent people and their rudeness; I will be praying for you also.
Dave Briggman
WSVA radio is devoting an HOUR to this “situation” tomorrow at 9AM eastern…the station streams at http://wsvaonline.com
Join in the discussion.
Dave Briggman
Tuesday morning on WSVA’S Live and Local at 9. The Bucky Anderson Memorial. Thousands of dollars have been raised for a memorial to honor Bucky, now there are several questions being raised about it. Join us Tuesday morning to hear the story behind this and what Bucky’s parents have been put through since his death. Tuesday morning at 9 on WSVA and streaming at WSVAONLINE.COM
Valerie
And I suppose what Clayton’s been through since isn’t worth mentioning at all. How one-sided.
Dave Briggman
Memorial Arrives – Misspelled Posted November 23, 2010 12:00 AM EST
Monument’s Mistakes Latest In Ongoing Tribute Dispute
By Jeremy Hunt
HARRISONBURG – Both sides involved in a contentious dispute over a proposed memorial can agree on at least one thing: The word commemorate is spelled with three m’s.
Mistakes on the monument for fallen U.S. soldiers – at the nexus of a heated clash between the man who proposed the project and the parents of a slain Broadway soldier – are the latest flap in the ongoing argument.
The word “commemorated” is misspelled on a granite base for the memorial, and the listing of a local high school named for Civil War Confederate Brig. Gen. Turner Ashby is reversed.
The parents of Army Spc. Brian “Bucky” Anderson, 24, have been skeptical that money raised using their son’s name and image actually went to purchase a monument through Florida Fallen Heroes, a nonprofit organization.
Clayton Murwin of Timberville came forward after Anderson’s death June 12 in combat in Afghanistan. At the time, Murwin said he wanted to put a memorial in Anderson’s honor at Broadway High School.
Anderson played football at BHS and won two state high school wrestling championships before graduating in 2004.
Although he distributed information calling it the Bucky Anderson Memorial, Murwin insists it was always intended as a tribute to all local fallen soldiers with no prominence given to Anderson.
Kenny and Margaret Anderson, however, say the memorial was always presented as a tribute to their son, and many people made donations thinking it was specifically for him.
While the Andersons believe all soldiers should be honored, they say the community was promised a tribute to Bucky.
Donor Chip Parkins said he received a receipt from Murwin with a note that reads, “We would like to thank you for your donation and support to the Bucky Anderson Memorial.”
“That’s pretty damn clear to me,” Parkins said.
Due to a number of delays and conflicting information, Kenny and Margaret Anderson were hoping the $6,800 raised for the project hadn’t been spent, family friend and spokesman John Skelly said.
But the granite base for the monument has arrived in Broadway, and Murwin posed next to it for a photograph, which has been posted on a blogger’s website.
The front of the monument reads, “Dedicated & commemorated (sic) to all our fallen heroes lest they be forgotten.” Two emblems depicting symbols for Florida Fallen Heroes and Heroes Fallen Studios, Murwin’s fledgling organization, are seen on the front above the text.
“Put yourself in the position of the Andersons – your boy’s name has been used to raise money in the community and that’s the monument that’s been made,” Skelly said. “I truly believe that monument was a discard because of the misspelling.”
On the back is a list of donors, which includes “Ashby Turner Wrestling,” an apparent reference to Turner Ashby High School’s wrestling team. Parkins, whose twin sons used to wrestle at TA, made a donation on the team’s behalf. He said the wrestling teams at Broadway and Turner Ashby, while competitive, respect each other.
Hayden Fisher, a Richmond-based attorney who is representing Murwin, said a number of changes made to the monument’s inscription contributed to the error on the front.
“The misspelling is, obviously, regrettable,” Fisher said. “There’s really no excuse for something like this, but something like this happens because there’s tons and tons of changes made.”
The Andersons and Murwin had been trying to reach an agreement on the memorial’s design, but those talks boiled over in October. At a contentious mediation meeting, the Andersons grew frustrated and requested their son’s name not be included as had been negotiated.
Fisher said a bronze plaque would be placed over the engraved text to cover up the spelling mistake.
As far as “Ashby Turner” is concerned, Fisher said it likely wouldn’t be changed.
That doesn’t sit well with Parkins, who didn’t know Bucky Anderson but wanted to donate to the cause.
“Subway [in Broadway] donated money for that cause. What if they said, ‘Ubway’ or ‘Waysub’?” Parkins said. “Take every one that’s right and make it backwards and what would [the donors] say?”
While the memorial was intended to be placed at Broadway High School, the Rockingham County School Board won’t allow that until the mistakes are remedied and a consensus is reached, said Carol Fenn, superintendent of county schools.
“Until those things are corrected, the board would not be placing a memorial [on school property],” she said. “It’s not ready to go on property, and it needs to meet … the intent of the community before it’s placed there.”
Contact Jeremy Hunt at 574-6273 or jhunt@dnronline.com
MICKEY(Gold Star Mother)
A memorial done for whatever reason can have a name, but that doesn’t mean it has to have that Name on the Memorial.
CJ
Obviously, Mr. Hunt is as much a fledgling reporter as Mr. Murwin is a fledgling non profit. Skelly is the main instigator behind the Anderson family, seeking to make a name for himself at the expense of Clayton. Thus is a guy who has broken every promise made to resolve this issue and in fact made it much worse. If Mr. Hunt had actually read my blog instead of looking at the pretty pictures, he would have told a more even sided story. Yet he hasn’t contacted anyone besides Clayton’s lawyer to get a story other than this skewed piece of excrement. Interesting how he can find a few people for the story to make Clayton look bad, but no one else but Fisher to tell an opposing view. Yes, there are many local people who support Clayton’s effort.
Holy cow! I live in a small town too, but I have never seen such blind protectionism in my life. The ignorance is truly astounding. And, contrary to what was said, ALL errors will be corrected.
MICKEY(Gold Star Mother)
Dave, what seems to be happening here is that as CJ just said that Sulley has stuck his nose is things he should have stayed out of. I know we as parents in our time of need are sometimes very blindsided by what is good help and what is not. With that said I work very hard with a few in my community to have a Bridge named for my son. Well, I can tell you that more junk came out of the wood work like I have never seen before. I have many people oppose to it for various reason and other not. It is done now 2 years ago. I did not start that project someone else.
I am now on a committee to Honor all Fallen from all Wars beginning with WW I to current.
I can tell you the cost involved the months or research, the planning, the fight with local boards to have permission to place in the town square asnd so much more. Our project is still in the works and will be for at least 2years. No the VFW Aux will not endorse one Hero over others.
yankeemom
One-sided reporting. How professional.
No one has mentioned the gag order that was placed on all who were at the mediation in October. Apparently, only the Murwins are honoring this order.
No one has mentioned that there is no sheriff’s dept investigation. Heroes Fallen’s financial books were given up voluntarily looked at and nothing untoward was found.
No one has mentioned that there is an investigation into who was behind that vicious flyer slandering Clayton Murwin left all along the main st. and in businesses there.
We only have Mr. Skelly’s and a few others’ version, which includes a lot of assumptions on their part.
And since no one has gotten Heroes Fallen, Inc.’s statement (remember the gag order?), it appears that getting all the facts before making serious accusations and becoming judge, jury and executioner is not important.
This is now a legal situation ~ how about letting ALL the facts come out and those who are actual lawyers get to the bottom of this.
MICKEY(Gold Star Mother)
Sulley is “supports all troops” I am sure.
CJ
Actually, Mickey, “supports all troops” is a woman named Sara that is using Perdue Chicken Farm computers to wish for the death of me and other American troops and wishes you would jump off a bridge.
MICKEY(Gold Star Mother)
oh my Real American huh?
MICKEY(Gold Star Mother)
I was just thinking out loud, with all who live in the area of Broadway, no one know a stone company that could have or would have donated the Stone from the mountains of that area? WOW talk about support!
CJ
Mickey, the memorial will be repaired at NO COST to the community of Broadway. Wouldn’t want John Skelly to go back on the radio complaining that more money was being spent on a lost cause.
Broadway Valerie
[Broadway Valerie, you are no longer permitted to comment here based on your previous offensive and vulgar comments. - CJ.]
White Rose
I just read through the comments. I feel sorry for the Anderson family. To loose a son and then to have this go on in their town….well, it’s sad, very sad.
As long as the corrections are made on the monument, what is the big deal? I can see being upset that it didn’t arrive when it was suppoed to, but how is that Clayton’s fault? It’s not! I can understand a family wanting something to memorialize their son, but does it really have to be ONLY for him? I am sure that if he were here, he would be totally embarrassed by what is going on. Not only because I know that most soldiers that are in battle feel closer to the man/woman standing beside them than they do to ANYONE back home, but because most soldiers I know, don’t do what they do for fame or glory. They do it because it is their job. At least that is what I was told by the soldiers that protected my a$$ during an ambush in Iraq.
You people need to get out of your own heads and think about what SGT Anderson would want….what he would say. I bet he would tell you all where to get off and ask for another deployment in Iraq or Afghanistan to get away from all this petty, childish arguing.
It’s no damn wonder that most of the troops that come home feel out of place and want to go back after seeing the disgrace that this has turned into. And a disgrace it has become…not only to the people involved, but to the memory of a young man that gave his life for not only his country and the people in it, but for the man or woman standing beside him in battle.
Broadway Valerie
[Yes, I am the controller. This is my home and I won't let you come in and disrespect me in it! - CJ]
Old_Soldier
So here we have a multitude of people arguing the finer points of errors that were created on a memorial to fallen members of the US Military and in remembrance of a local soldier who died in Iraq. I only have one simple question for you folks and before anyone asks I am not from nor do I have friends in or around your neck of the woods so I have no vested interest in saying what I am about to say. Now onto the question……….
WHAT IN THE BLUE BLOODY HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU PEOPLE?
Some of you knuckleheads act as if you are fighting in the Hatfield and McCoy feud. Others like that ignoramus Support for all Troops (he/she/it probably only supports themselves and nobody else) act like their family tree grows straight up and does not branch. Then we have the Captain of the Moron Squad Broadway Valerie (not Valerie but the OTHER one)who cannot seem to just STFU and be proud that someone actually CARES enough to try and do something for a person whom he most likely never knew and who’s family he never knew until he chose to do this honorable deed. FFS Y’all act like the end of the world is near and you are trying to figure out who to blame for it. Quit bickering and nitpicking and BITCHING and just say Thank You Clayton for your effort to do the RIGHT thing. Either that or pack your chit up and get the frock out of Dodge damn.
Y’all do know what the RIGHT thing is don’t ya? Cause from where I stand it seems too many of you have forgotten that small fact of life and are too hell bent on causing pain and grief for anyone who does not agree with you.
I pray for you, CJ (aka "Supports all troops" aka Sara)
CJ, looking over your one sided self control website shows a very sad man. I have trouble with your reasoning.
You block people because of vulgar language where you yourself say of certian people going straight to hell.
If you’re going to maintain a website as this, you should expect and be able to handle such responses. Why is it okay for you to type what ever you want and block others?
I read over this stuff, wow, what a situation. No, it’s not nice anyone to wish death on anyone, but it was wished on you, not all troops. Your obvious friend Mickey should learn to read.
You should hang it up, sir. I pray for you and all those angry. It is a shame what has occurred, but all parties should forget of their agendas and concentrate on the young man who gave his life in service.
CJ
Sara is now using a different name. I guess she realized that “supports all troops” wasn’t working, so she changed it. I pray for you too, Sara. In a Jaron and the Long Road to Love sort of way! Guess what, Sara. This is my website. I set the rules. If I don’t like the tone or way someone speaks to me, I’ll ban them. Period. Usually I have a very good reason, not that I need one. In this case, someone wishing that I die (even after surviving three near-death experiences in combat) is a good threshold for what I’m willing to put up with. I defy you to show me one instance in which I’ve asked for someone to die in combat!
And you should take a healthy dose of your own advice.
Still praying for you
Don’t really care, CJ, we heard your rambling on the radio this morning, made us feel real sorry for you.
You sound like a baby, my site, my rules, whaa whaa whaa. I don’t wish death on any troops, just in anger at people like you who don’t know what you’re talking about. I did spew off at the mouth, and yeah, regret much of what I said, I’m just stunned at your bias and refusal to see the truth. You haven’t seen Mrs. Anderson’s face when she talks of the loss of her son. Clayton promoted the whole thing as memorial to Bucky, and it has turned into a terrible thing, and you make it worse.
I applaud and thank your for your service to our country, but seeing how you’ve become this pathetic self promoting blogger like Clayton and his comic book, please. You don’t know what goes on here. He went into a local business and demanded the money the $600 they raised; they had decided to give it to the scholarship since it was known the cost of the memorial was raised and a surplus as well. He called it “my money”. Just what are we suppose to think?
You refuste totally to take in the truth. Mrs. Anderson is not a self serving woman; just a mother trying to protect all she has left of her son, his memory. All you care about is you. You don’t care what happened to Bucky; just to other self promoters like you.
I realize hate gets nobody nowhere, thank you for teaching me that, and I really sincerely pray you get past your bias. Remember, Bucky died to give you the freedom of speech you abuse daily. You need to eat your own humble pie, sir, and add some eggs to it.
Clayton
CJ
Yes, you do care or you wouldn’t still be commenting on here. Don’t feel sorry for me, I am loving watching you all implode. I’m loving that you support a child molestor and criminal (Skelly). It speaks volumes about who you and others are. Valerie Mays gets fired for filing false complaints to the FBI against a model teacher, Skelly gets fired for getting caught screwing a student, Fulk can’t win an election to save his life, the Police Chief pressures local businesses to protect them all. It’s all coming together! I don’t think I’m the one you need to be feeling sorry for.
The entire bulk of the Broadway community that is community that is attacking Clayton (who didn’t write that comment, by the way – nice try) is selfish. The Anderson family is being used; I don’t blame them. They are still in the anger stages of their grief. One day, I pray that they will wake up and see the kind of man that Skelly is and dump him immediately, whether or not they change their opinion of Clayton.
As for freedoms that Bucky died for, I agree. However, I’m willing to bet that I’ve done more to secure those freedoms in my little pinky than you have your entire pathetic life. Handling chickens doesn’t really do that, does it?
I find the rest of your comments ignorant and rhetorical. Exactly WHAT am I “self promoting?” If all I cared about is me, why would I be helping Clayton fight your baseless stupidity? Seems a bit SELFLESS to put myself out there for another person, if you ask me (and any other intelligent human being). You’re an idiot, period. It seems to me I know more about what is going on in your community than you do, and I don’t live there! Imagine that.
Sudsy
Wow, the ignorance rampant with some of the more self serving folks from Broadway is agonizing to me. I don’t know if anyone else has had family go through the process of getting a grave stone done and had to send the stone back to errors; or worked with other memorial projects and run into the same thing. Its such a simple mistake, and normally done at the engravers shop. Its likely something they will take care of.
Those concerned about the logos of the non-profit groups on the base of the Memorial should go to a VFW or American Legion sponsored memorial sometime. Do you consider these organizations self serving when they place their seals on stones honoring fallen soldiers? No, not likely.
But then, some of you are so lost down your own personal gratification and desire to strike out at someone else for your own problems, that you decide to bully Clayton for your own gratification. You violate gag orders, you talk of ‘investigations’ that don’t exist, and seek to find politicians who want to stimulate their own careers by creating fictional controversy.
With such actions, its no wonder to me why charity is dead and welfare reigns in many areas. Worthless men such as John Skelly and Co. are why. Someone gives, and folks like Skelly and Co. seek to destroy them with false accusations (check those pesky Ten Commandments sometime Mr. Skelly…).
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DefendUSA
Damn, CJ!
What a colossal mess! A guy with nothing but good intentions getting the shaft and again, people trashing you. I came here from the B5 story…are donations still needed?
(It would suck to be some of the losers who commented and you banned. They will never get it!)
CJ
Nope! All the money for corrections to the memorial have been raised. The corrections will be completed before Christmas.
Townie
C.J., you still haven’t addressed Briggman’s question that he has posed to you now several times.
Why did any money have to be raised for “corrections” to errors which should have been caught by Murwin before construction, when there was $5K raised in excess of the cost of the memorial.
Where’s that $5K?
CJ
Townie, I’m not on the board, I didn’t purchase the memorial, I didn’t create the memorial, I collect the money, I didn’t spend the money, and I haven’t touched the money. Have you looked at the ledger? I can’t answer your question because the very premise that there is all this excess money raised is simply false. Don’t forget that there is more to cost of a memorial than just the materials to create it. The thing also needs to be put somewhere and land prepared for its placement. That also costs money. Is that concept too simple to understand?