Dear Editor,
I am writing my letter to highlight some positive initiatives that are in the process of coming to fruition that will have an impact on the youth of Barnwell County.

On July 2, 2010 I received an invitation from Mr. Kenneth Myers, Sr. on the behalf of the Barnwell/Blackville chapter of the NAACP to speak at a community meeting on Monday, July 6, 2010 beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the Barnwell County Library. Additionally, Mr. Myers referenced that my opponent had also been invited to speak.

My opponent failed to attend this meeting and I was allowed to speak at length and I opened the floor for a question and answer session.

The next scheduled speaker was Mr. Anthony Williams who has retired from the US Navy and shared with us his vision to launch a "Hot Dog and Talk" initiative that he had launched at Virginia Beach, VA with a lot of success. Mr. Williams, a Barnwell native has returned to give back to the community that had a positive influence on him. The "Hot Dog and Talk" initiative provides a positive influence for youth and allows them to connect with other youths who face similar challenges. He has a vision and passion for our youth and was requesting support from our community.

On Thursday, July 8, 2010, I attended the board meeting of the Barnwell Boys and Girls Club at the invitation of Mr. Thomas Williams. I had contacted Mr. Williams in regard to requesting the opportunity for Mr. Anthony Williams to address the board and share with them his vision and passion for his "Hot Dog and Talk" initiative.

From this meeting I learned that the Barnwell Boys and Girls Club has been working very diligently in an effort to launch this organization to become a vehicle that will provide a positive influence for the youth of Barnwell County.

Sincerely,

Ben Kinlaw
Republican candidate
S.C. House District #91