SoundOff Blog Network

Bird Dog
Comments: 288
Joined: 09/06/2006

03/07/2007 10:09:14 PM

Does this go for when you travel to all the local bars and Ya'll troll for sex partners and then take them back to your "former" hotel and have one of your sessions! Or the ones that your wife was in The Alley exposing herself and making out with other women?

Mr. Craton, back on New Years' Eve you wrote an editorial titled " Life about letting go, moving on". why don't you go back and read that and take some of your own advice!

msla
Comments: 571
Joined: 12/29/2005

03/07/2007 10:07:19 PM

Banthafodder, welcome.

However, I must be clear about myself. I will hold back on giving you any credibility. It's not your fault. It's mine. You have appeared and posted all of a sudden, and out of the blue, exchanging specific information about a unique, single subject. And that's it. This has happened before with people. And it's because they found out about this site and came here for their own agenda. There's nothing wrong with that. But it makes me cautious about the validity of their words. After all, they are here for that one purpose - supporting their interests. So, if I don't share their idea/ideas, it all goes down the drain. That's what happened between Lovetoblog and myself. He said he didn't know Mr. Craton. If you're reading these posts, well...., you see how all this panned out. A big bunch of lies. So, I have to hold back with you. After all, you actually showed up and only wanted to ask Mr. Craton questions - or defend him. That's just nutty to me. It's funny too. But nutty.

bert57
Comments: 183
Joined: 12/13/2006

03/07/2007 10:05:44 PM

what about this site? they are sure to find out. the rnt is not an adult site. its a family oriented site and i am sure that other kids visit here and are sure to tell all they know. what then mr. c?

CharlesCraton
Comments: 18
Joined: 03/07/2007

03/07/2007 10:01:41 PM

Dear Deeptide, I appreciate your comments. As I said in my earlier post, I am thankful that my kids have a moral compass. Our computers block all access for our kids to see ANY adult sites, period. Our store will not allow anyone under 18 inside and the same goes for our computers. Our life with our kids is private and personal. People use our kids as a "wedge issue" to demonize us. Fact is we've taught our kids well. They are grounded in their beliefs, friendships, and attitudes. They are happy kids.

While you may find our lifestyle distasteful, compared to other choices- such as divorce, our kids are very supportive and happy. They love us and- after 20 years of marriage- understand. Given other options parents leave their kids, such as divorce, alcholism and abuse, drugs, etc. who are they OR anyone to cast the first stone. We all have our own lifestyles and make our own choices. If we all knew what everyone- not so public as us- do behind closed doors, you would be astounded. And, if everyone knew how many children in our community are abandoned, are not provided any leadership or parenting at all, and have to fend for themselves, again you would be shocked. Our life is different from most, and therefore suspect for people that don't understand. But, I can promise you that it's probably- at the end of the day- far more like yours than not. Our private lives that involve conduct you may not agree consumes maybe 1% of our time, mostly when we travel.

I may not convince you, but I hope I've helped you understand our position.

Charles

CharlesCraton
Comments: 18
Joined: 03/07/2007

03/07/2007 09:53:01 PM

Dear MSLA, I don't know about Lovetoblog's previous comments or posts but I can hope they were supportive. After all, he is an old friend. I do not speak for him but I do know that- from his own words to me- he has defended me here in the past. I guess that is a true friend. I hope you have those kinds of friends too.

It's nice to meet you to. I hope you have a nice evening, what's left of it. I have my laptop in my lap. Real laptop. Sitting in my Lazyboy watching TV. I'm trying to learn about these various categories on the side and reading them as well. I guess this Watercooler is where everyone wants to talk about me. So, that's fine.

I am proud of our store and our employees. I don't want to say much here or I will be accused of promoting the store, etc. I would like to give out my email address. It's charles@cratononline.com. If you want to talk, please email me so I don't consume this Blog site. I am here- live and in person. I want you to know that I have a great appreciation and respect for those who chose not to go to the store and/or don't believe in it. I simply ask you to respect the fact that we don't live in a country where one religion speaks for all. We live in a free country. I accept your dislike for it. And I am not forcing you or anyone else to go. The store has been successful, so I'm thankful for that. I do wish you the best, however, and as I said, respect your opinion.

Charles

DeepTide
Comments: 1
Joined: 03/07/2007

03/07/2007 09:50:24 PM

Charles, I want you to know that I am a political conservative but very liberal socially. I was rqaised to have an open mind about everything, so I don't have any problems whatsoever about your choice of business or even some of your choices about lifestyle. However, I do have a problem with the notion of your having exposed your children to your lifestyle. I don't believe that it is possible for you to enlighten teenagers as to how they feel "comfortable" with the lifestyle you and your wife have chosen. Perhaps they could be raised to accept alternative lifestyles and what not, but I don't see how the two of you can possibly think it is OK for them to have access to public websites that inlcude the two of you in ultra-compromising positions and for either of you to think that this is somehow beneficial to their upbringing. It must be emotionally crippling to them both. Again, I have no issues whatsoever with your choice of enterprise or even the notion of having a website that promotes your business. But I ask you...if your mother and father had been naked at The Follies in 1975 and your father was bringing in other men to have sex with your mother, what would you have thought? You and your wife are doing the same thing, only in a modern context. It is too much.

msla
Comments: 571
Joined: 12/29/2005

03/07/2007 09:44:16 PM

I love it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Last year when Lovetoblog and I went round and round, I also emailed several folks on this site separately. We always knew that Ltb had too much interest to get that involved over the whole thing. I figured he was some sort of investor.

It's nice to meet you this way, Craton. Lovetoblog has always told us that he did not know you or have any vested interest in the store. We knew that was a lie. But it is nice of you to verify things. After all, if you were so proud of your store and merchandise, you wouldn't have waited until the last minute to let the community know what you were peddling. You are a bold fellow now because it's all said and done. But you weren't back then. We haven't forgotten. You have proved that you are still trying to be just as sneaky now as you were then.

CharlesCraton
Comments: 18
Joined: 03/07/2007

03/07/2007 09:39:29 PM

Sir, I'm not going anywhere. I hope that makes your day too.

Goodnight, sir.

As Arnold said, "I'll be back."

Back to watching something interesting- Spongebob...LOL

CharlesCraton
Comments: 18
Joined: 03/07/2007

03/07/2007 09:38:12 PM

Bird Dog, you are a strange person. I don't get it. You never responded to my letter I wrote you- civil and respectful. Instead, you're accusing me- wrongly- that I'm posting as everyone on the site here?? Funny thing is I have never been here until today so you can believe as you wish.

bert57
Comments: 183
Joined: 12/13/2006

03/07/2007 09:37:29 PM

we all know that the guy has no self respect so how can we expect him to feel humiliation over any of this? one things for sure though. he did give us plenty to laugh at tonight! and plenty to laugh about for days!

Bird Dog
Comments: 288
Joined: 09/06/2006

03/07/2007 09:36:44 PM

Gotta go for a while, but you have made my day. I was let down after losing the MegaMillions, but this MORE than makes up for it.

Bird Dog
Comments: 288
Joined: 09/06/2006

03/07/2007 09:34:43 PM

Hey, Charles, I thought you were watching SpongeBob? What are we to believe?

Bird Dog
Comments: 288
Joined: 09/06/2006

03/07/2007 09:33:27 PM

and now banthafodder shows up? coincidence????? I think not, this is to much, Charles give it up!

CharlesCraton
Comments: 18
Joined: 03/07/2007

03/07/2007 09:32:33 PM

I'm curious. LTB got me set up today and so what's the deal? Is everyone totally anonymous so you can say whatever you want??. I'm here as me. Who are you? So, regardless of what you think, I hope we can carry on a serious AND civil conversation. I will respond to any serious questions or issues that you want to discuss.

Thanks,

Charles

Bird Dog
Comments: 288
Joined: 09/06/2006

03/07/2007 09:31:59 PM

Charles Craton doesn't know how to work a computer blog. GIMME A BREAK! Keepem' coming Charles/ltb and whatever other screen names you have here. Maybe after this humiliatation, we've seen the last of you here for a while.

banthafodder
Comments: 6
Joined: 03/07/2007

03/07/2007 09:28:35 PM

What an incoherent load of bs. First of all, I'm not in "cahoots" with him--I dont even know him. Your conspiracy theories render you certifiable, congratulations.

Bird Dog
Comments: 288
Joined: 09/06/2006

03/07/2007 09:28:29 PM

Amen to your post Bert. Right on! As I said before, what he does is "easy" money. Still laughing! Bert, this couldn't be funnier!

maggie
Comments: 1554
Joined: 01/08/2006

03/07/2007 09:27:53 PM

How funny that craton managed to blog just fine under his own name several times earlier in the day and suddenly he has to be shown how to do it by lbt and he uses that as an excuse for blogging under the other name, yeah right!!!!!!

Codeslinger, I am with msla, please give craton and his alter ego ltb their own spot to talk to themselves.

lovetoblog
Comments: 17
Joined: 04/02/2006

03/07/2007 09:27:34 PM

Actually, I'm sitting here with Charles. Now he's watching Spongebob. I'm getting ready to go home. I hope you had some entertainment...LOL. I'm trying to get him into this blog to defend himself but I think he is too busy with Spongbob to bother. HA HA!

Heading back to West Rome,

LTB

bert57
Comments: 183
Joined: 12/13/2006

03/07/2007 09:26:58 PM

pay no attention to the man behind the curtain!!! this is great! keep em coming!!!

CharlesCraton
Comments: 18
Joined: 03/07/2007

03/07/2007 09:25:03 PM

Bert, I am still here with my friend who is showing me how this site works. I just saw your post. I see this posting blog here at RNT is for all the angry folks in Rome to come vent. Wow, what anger. I'm not sure what you mean about the lawsuit for Entice. But we're happy and our attorney is happy, that's all I know. I appreciate Lovetoblog for telling me about this site and getting me here. I find this very interesting, but also very sad. I wish everyone the best. Try and be happy and enjoy your life.

Sincerly.

Charles

Bird Dog
Comments: 288
Joined: 09/06/2006

03/07/2007 09:23:48 PM

BERT.. MSLA....MM.....this is the funniest thing on this board in a while.....too funny. Spread the word, CRATON has been exposed. HA HA HA HA HA HA HA........lovetoblog, I thought Charles was sitting there eating his chicken pot pie, watching American Idol, next to the roaring fire, petting his 20 year old cat, helping his father. WHAT ARE YOU DOING THERE? He didn't mention you. TOOOOOOOO FUUNNNNNNYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!!!

bert57
Comments: 183
Joined: 12/13/2006

03/07/2007 09:18:46 PM

birddog, i am laughing so hard right now i am hurting!!!!

lovetoblog
Comments: 17
Joined: 04/02/2006

03/07/2007 09:18:39 PM

This is "Love to Blog" here. Birdog, That is BS. Charle6s is, however, a friend and I am helping him here to do this. Unfortunately, while showing him, he wrote his post under my login. That has been fixed. That was his fault, not mine. I guess he also killed Kennedy. Sorry about that!

LTB

Bird Dog
Comments: 288
Joined: 09/06/2006

03/07/2007 09:17:38 PM

HA HA HA HA HA...... to late CRATON/lovetoblog, we caught you in your lies.......you cut your lovetoblog post that you accidently put under the wrong screen name of lovetoblog and you REPOSTED it under CharlesCraton......to LATE......

Bird Dog
Comments: 288
Joined: 09/06/2006

03/07/2007 09:14:44 PM

Well, Well, Well....Mr. Craton, you have confirmed what a LIAR and decieptful person you are. We have all suspected you were Craton in drag and now you have screwed up royally and used your "lovetoblog" screenname as well. I guess my "conspiracy" notion rings true as well as I am sure you are banthafodder as well. Look at the timeline. You have lied about your past many times and blame things on others and now THE TRUTH comes out. Explain this one Craton-lovetoblog has been around since last year during the entice episode and reappeared after the club story started being discussed. HOW CAN ANYTHING YOU SAY BE BELIEVED? WHEN BY THIS POST YOU ARE NOW A CONFESSED LIAR......P.S. The SLUT choker necklace story is a LIE as well, however you acting as her PIMP is the perfect costume for you.

CharlesCraton
Comments: 18
Joined: 03/07/2007

03/07/2007 09:14:34 PM

Dear Birddog:

I am saddened that you are so angry and upset. You have not identified yourself so I don't even know if I know you or who you are. Your "conspiracy" notion with banthafodder is much like some of your other comments- untrue. I received a phone call today that you were bashing me here and that I should come here to defend myself. Today was the first time I've ever been here and frankly, didn't know this place existed. I did not see your previous post. Thanks for reposting it so I can get a sense of where you're coming from.

Your messages are so full of hatred that I am not even sure how to respond to you effectively. I did not start any of these messages here and was unaware my name was coming up. I only came here to see what this was all about. I am not here to stay, just for a visit.

First, I am not on a "high horse." I am here to learn others ideas about all this and what people think. I am trying to learn yours. I respect your opinion and your passion. You have a very good point about the "Slut Choker" on the Myspace site. I apologize for that. That photo was taken at Halloween and I dressed up like a "pimp" and she was my "companion" for a party. Based on everything we've been through, it was a joke for the party we attended- and was received that way. It was appropriate there but- without perspective- does not make sense on the photo album. I will take it down. I appreciate you pointing that out.

As far as my kids, you can "assume" whatever you like. I know and am comfortable with our children's life, and their moral compass. I teach them to accept ALL people and ALL ways of life. They attend church each Sunday. I encourage them to read their Bible too. As far as other kids, we have such an open line of communication. I am aware if any kids are mean to them or say anything hurtful. Those days are long, long over. Yes, back in 2005, it was a difficult period for them and all of us. But now, they are accepted, people know they are not us, and they both have great and true friends that they "hang with." I will leave it at that and ask you to respect their privacy. Talk about me not them, PLEASE.

I understand your disagreement with my adult businesses. If I were gay or lesbian or some other lifestly choice, I'm sure you would disagree with that as well. It's not a part of your culture or your way of life. And that's fine. I am not forcing you to go to these websites or to our store. I respect your opinion. I just hope you will respect mine. I want you to know that 99% of the time, our lifestyle is probably like yours. I go to work, come home, eat dinner, watch TV, talk to my wife, Dad and kids. Today, I got up, went to work, went to a luncheon, back to work, now I'm home in front of American Idol, just ate dinner, and am enjoying the rest of the night with my family. NOW- 1% of the time, you would not agree with our lifestyle, which we enjoy, and which we only do rarely. But, I do understand that 1% of my life is totally outside your life and you don't like it.

In conclusion, I wish you the best and hope that you will direct any future anger towards me, and away from the rest of my family.

Thank you,

Charles

PS- I am not going to even address the Coosa Country Club matter with you. I've said all I need to say publically and on my support site. I will let that speak for itself.

lovetoblog
Comments: 17
Joined: 04/02/2006

03/07/2007 09:13:55 PM

bert57
Comments: 183
Joined: 12/13/2006

03/07/2007 09:08:38 PM

hey look at this yall!!!! mr. lovetoblog is none other than the one and only mr.c!!!!! guess he got confused about who he should be on here!

bert57
Comments: 183
Joined: 12/13/2006

03/07/2007 09:03:14 PM

well,well,well... let me be gone for a couple of hours ( to work a decent job!) and look what the dogs dragged in!! i cant believe what we have here! its mr. porn peddler himself! along with some back up. guess you underestimated the courts didnt you? granted as you said some of the wind was taken out of the countys sails, but not as much as yours! how does it feel to be a total embarrasement to those that have the misfortune to be close to you? i could not EVER put my children through what yours must be feeling. i am not perfect by no means but my kids can look at me with total respect and they do know that i am a decent man. and i think that i speak for the majority of the county when i say that i cant wait to see you leave our town and the sooner the better! you have succeded in making a total a** out of yourself in several different ways. now you are trying to make everyone but yourself look they are the ones to blame for all of your hurt feelings. think about it feller. who is really to blame here for the way that you are treated in this town?

lovetoblog
Comments: 17
Joined: 04/02/2006

03/07/2007 09:02:46 PM

Dear Birddog:

I am saddened that you are so angry and upset. You have not identified yourself so I don't even know if I know you or who you are. Your "conspiracy" notion with banthafodder is much like some of your other comments- untrue. I received a phone call today that you were bashing me here and that I should come here to defend myself. Today was the first time I've ever been here and frankly, didn't know this place existed. I did not see your previous post. Thanks for reposting it so I can get a sense of where you're coming from.

Your messages are so full of hatred that I am not even sure how to respond to you effectively. I did not start any of these messages here and was unaware my name was coming up. I only came here to see what this was all about. I am not here to stay, just for a visit.

First, I am not on a "high horse." I am here to learn others ideas about all this and what people think. I am trying to learn yours. I respect your opinion and your passion. You have a very good point about the "Slut Choker" on the Myspace site. I apologize for that. That photo was taken at Halloween and I dressed up like a "pimp" and she was my "companion" for a party. Based on everything we've been through, it was a joke for the party we attended- and was received that way. It was appropriate there but- without perspective- does not make sense on the photo album. I will take it down. I appreciate you pointing that out.

As far as my kids, you can "assume" whatever you like. I know and am comfortable with our children's life, and their moral compass. I teach them to accept ALL people and ALL ways of life. They attend church each Sunday. I encourage them to read their Bible too. As far as other kids, we have such an open line of communication. I am aware if any kids are mean to them or say anything hurtful. Those days are long, long over. Yes, back in 2005, it was a difficult period for them and all of us. But now, they are accepted, people know they are not us, and they both have great and true friends that they "hang with." I will leave it at that and ask you to respect their privacy. Talk about me not them, PLEASE.

I understand your disagreement with my adult businesses. If I were gay or lesbian or some other lifestly choice, I'm sure you would disagree with that as well. It's not a part of your culture or your way of life. And that's fine. I am not forcing you to go to these websites or to our store. I respect your opinion. I just hope you will respect mine. I want you to know that 99% of the time, our lifestyle is probably like yours. I go to work, come home, eat dinner, watch TV, talk to my wife, Dad and kids. Today, I got up, went to work, went to a luncheon, back to work, now I'm home in front of American Idol, just ate dinner, and am enjoying the rest of the night with my family. NOW- 1% of the time, you would not agree with our lifestyle, which we enjoy, and which we only do rarely. But, I do understand that 1% of my life is totally outside your life and you don't like it.

In conclusion, I wish you the best and hope that you will direct any future anger towards me, and away from the rest of my family.

Thank you,

Charles

PS- I am not going to even address the Coosa Country Club matter with you. I've said all I need to say publically and on my support site. I will let that speak for itself.

Bird Dog
Comments: 288
Joined: 09/06/2006

03/07/2007 08:22:29 PM

03/07/2007 06:59:16 AM this morning

As I said in my previous post. The perverted things these people do are legal. There are all kinds of perverted sexual sickos out there that do all types of things and they are all legal. it does not mean that we have to respect IT, nor them, nor would I want them sitting next to me at dinner. I don't believe this whole beef is between the private club and the guy that own's a store. I think it's them voicing their disgust with his "way of life". To quote my earlier post, "There are lots of things that are legal, but to the standard citizen, these things are gross and morally wrong. I am sorry. I have NO RESPECT for anyone that does these things, but what makes it so bad, is that they could not control their greed and lust for this "easy" money and sacrifice the welfare of their children. Children are controlled by adults, at home, at daycare, at school, at sports, ect. and it is their underlying nature to respect adults, especially their parents. You may ask if they are "effected" by your "smut peddling" and perverted sexual desires and they are probably gonna say no. Remeber, Shawn Hornbeck had many opportunities to escape the perverted Devlin, but did not do so, because he was the controlling adult in his life. I know this situation is different, but really in the end, it's not that different. Instead of saying their kids are "OK with it", couldn't they have just kept thier pants on a few more years and spared them all of the embarrasment, that they have caused. Quit trying to blame the guilt on someone else when it truly lies at your doorstep. It's may not all be just about the store, I bet it's more about your "way of life". It may be legal, but that doesn't make it right....."

When you grow up, you try to instill in your children the difference between right and wrong, not what's legal and illegal. That's where this guy's argument is and I don't think anyone would argue that at this particular time his store is legal, I think it all lies in what alot more than just the majority think is right and what these few perverted people think is right.

Interesting question? Mr. Craton has involved all of us in this community in this discussion. Has he shared his lifestyle with the parents of his "SLUT" wife(that's how he identifies her)? What has been their response? I am not asking if they told them that they own a smut shop, I'm asking, have you told her mother and father how ya'll enjoy this "way of life" and how you enjoy photographing her(their daughter) doing all of these things with multiple people simultaneously and then you post these things on the internet either to sell or for all to see?

What was their response?

Bird Dog
Comments: 288
Joined: 09/06/2006

03/07/2007 08:21:27 PM

Wow Mr. Craton, you are so smooth. It's to obvious that you and banta fodder are in cahoots and it's llike a staged interview. Obviously you didn't get to my post this morning or you chose not to respond. I am not speaking on behalf of anyone at the country club and I do not know that many people there.

I will respond to a few things you said on here today. Get off your high horse and face the truth. Whenever something is posted on the world wide web, that is public domain and there for anyone yound and old to see. YOU posted on the internet to be seen for your perverted sexual pleasure.
Quit hiding behind the fact, that if any other child says something to yours, it's that childs problem. Grow up and shoulder some responsibility. As you say Craton, YOUR lifestyle changed, nothing else did, and now you expect everyone around you to accept you and your wife's perverted ways to become acceptble behavior. People just are not that way and you are crazy if you think they will accept this as normal behavior. Do your kids think it is normal behavior when they see your wife's picture on your myspace page wearing a SLUT necklace. I don't think my kids would think that is normal and I know if I saw my mother wearing a SLUT necklace, I would be crushed. Then when I realized all my friends saw this as well I would be totally humiliated. The problem is THEY HAVE TO DEAL WITH IT, because of the lack of respect that ya'll as parents have for them as children that have to go out into a "normal" world all day. They don't live in your perverted sexual world where "anything goes is acceptable", that ya'll have chosen to dwell in. I don't have a lot of time to spend on this tonight, so I will also repost my earlier post and see if you want to respond to some of those questions.

msla
Comments: 571
Joined: 12/29/2005

03/07/2007 06:13:35 PM

This is the response I received from a letter I sent about illegal immigration to Sen. Isakson. I thought you'd like to read it. He should get our support as he is hanging in there against those who want to grant 'amnesty.'

(His greeting to me):

On February 20, 2007, I had the opportunity to travel with Secretary of Homeland Security Michael Chertoff to the U.S.-Mexico border in Arizona , where I was proud to help weld a section of the double-barrier fence that is being constructed along the border. My one-day visit there convinced me more than ever that we can - and we must - secure our border first before we grant legal status to anyone who has come to our country illegally.

Secretary Chertoff and I traveled to the Arizona portion of the Yuma Sector of the U.S.-Mexico border. The Yuma Sector patrols 118 miles of border with Mexico , between the Yuma-Pima County line in Arizona and the Imperial Sand Dunes in California . As a result of the construction of 80 miles of double-barrier fencing, the installation of ground control radar and the doubling of border patrol agents from 400 to more than 800, the number of people trying to enter the United States illegally in the Yuma Sector has dropped dramatically in the past couple of years, from about 118,000 arrests in fiscal year 2006 down to 15,000 arrests in the first five months of fiscal year 2007.

This visit proves to me that a combination of aerial surveillance, ground radar, physical barriers where appropriate and the right kind of border patrol force will dramatically reduce and ultimately end illegal immigration.

In January, I introduced legislation to require that the first step of comprehensive immigration reform be to secure the U.S. borders. This legislation spells out in detail the increased manpower, equipment and technology necessary to stop the flood of illegal immigrants into our country.

There is no way you can reform legal immigration unless you first stop the porous borders and the flow of illegal immigrants, and this trip to the border has convinced me of that more than ever I believe my bill is the bridge from where we are to where we must go. I stand ready to work with any senator on comprehensive immigration reform as long as securing the borders is the foundation of that reform.

Please visit my webpage at http://isakson.senate.gov/ for more information on the issues important to you and to sign up for my e-newsletter.

Sincerely,
Johnny Isakson
United States Senator

For future correspondence with my office, please visit my web site at
http://isakson.senate.gov/contact.cfm

msla
Comments: 571
Joined: 12/29/2005

03/07/2007 06:06:43 PM

Codeslinger,

Do you think you could create a topic site for Craton and friends, Entice, and etc., to blow smoke on - separate from the Watercooler? He could get his free publicity that way. If you read the latest banter, only those asleep would not recognize this set-up. Thanks

banthafodder
Comments: 6
Joined: 03/07/2007

03/07/2007 05:26:26 PM

Again, interesting. I thought I would try to expose any hypocrisy in the accuser, if there was any. Now that I think about it, even if you were taking complicit in the actions of this "moral elite", you would now be more capable of exposing how harmful this gossip can be. It is also true that nothing you do is directly harming your children; it's other people's judgments of your actions that could harm your children. I assume a charge could be made that you were being irresponsible for opening your children to the onslaught of criticism, but that doesn't get to the heart of the issue. That charge would be an easy way to get around it. At the heart of the issue are the people talking about you maliciously, but they exculpate themselves from any guilt by claiming concern for your kids. You have to concede that you (this being an extremely conservative county) and the private/elitist country club are probably the two litigants who would be least sympathized with in our city. No doubt you are improving your odds with your website. You have a compelling argument, and it will be interesting to see how the case turns out.

CharlesCraton
Comments: 18
Joined: 03/07/2007

03/07/2007 04:25:40 PM

Good question. First, because our life is not their life. Because I want them to learn for themselves and make their own decisions. I encourage their church attendance. Plus they have developed friends there. REMEMBER they are young people, in the youth group. I am not the "all powerful Oz." (Pay no attention to the man behind the screen.) Our children have been a "wedge issue" against us for some time. Well, our kids are FANTASTIC, well adjusted kids. Sure, they have issues like others BUT when all this came out, you know what they wanted to know? Were we getting divorced? When we said NO, of course not, that ENDED it for them. They have both got friends/kids that had parents divorce and it was terrible on them. Our kids have parents that love and respect each other for over 20 years. So, our kids are not abused or hurt by us. Actually, they have adjusted well, have great friends, have found their own moral compass, and we love them more than anything. What people make of our personal lives is irrelevant to us, because we are comfortable who we are.

The interesting thing is my personal life became "public" due to OTHERS, not me. I have never discussed any of my private life until now, with anyone here. There is so much that is NOT true- BUT of course, some IS true, and some are half truths. I'm just trying to " keep it real." I have nothing to hide or cover up. I understand "offensive" but you have to understand that whatever it is that "offends" people has come from and through gossip. Sure, it's a very salacious subject, and people love to talk about it. So, that's fine. But I don't, unless asked. No one one would know if others didn't discuss it. This has changed NOW because I have decided I have nothing to lose and all to gain to come forward and be honest as to who we are.

For example, people mention websites. I don't and never had. Whatever you have heard or seen has come from the gossip of others, not me. Make any sense to you?

banthafodder
Comments: 6
Joined: 03/07/2007

03/07/2007 03:57:37 PM

Charles, why do you allow your children to go to the church with a "judgemental culture" which you found "disgusting"? I understand that you would want your children to do what they want, but if it took an "epiphany" for you to get over these views, why would you allow your children to be exposed to them? This seems like a ridiculous question to be asking someone, but its about the only interesting news in the town. I have to say, even though I can never be sure, it seems very convenient for you to have this epiphany when the moral standards were turned against you. I do grant to you that many people live duplicitous lives, but it only becomes offensive when those lurid aspects become public. Take a look at Augustus' marriage reforms; I think you will find some interesting parallels there.

CharlesCraton
Comments: 18
Joined: 03/07/2007

03/07/2007 03:31:48 PM

Dear Shannonres.

Actually, you may find it difficult to believe, but I agree with you 100%.

Thank you,

Charles

shannonres
Comments: 32
Joined: 01/17/2006

03/07/2007 03:24:44 PM

The only Christian "mold" that I know if is the model of Jesus clearly spelled out in the Holy Bible as a guide for what we are supposed to be. Just a though....

banthafodder
Comments: 6
Joined: 03/07/2007

03/07/2007 03:19:40 PM

interesting, thanks for the clarification

CharlesCraton
Comments: 18
Joined: 03/07/2007

03/07/2007 03:17:07 PM

Hi Bantafodder, great profile name...LOL. Must be a Star Wars fan like me.

OK, on West Rome Baptist, I was never a deacon there, just a member. I was never in any position of leadership. I did- at one time- sing in the choir. First, I grew up in that church. Second, my parents went there for- I think- 60 years. When I came back to Rome in 2002, one of our reasons was to take care of my Dad. Since he went to West Rome, it made since for us to go back there too, expecially for our kids. Our kids STILL go to WRBC. I LOVE many of the people there, especially the older members.

Over the course of my life, I've been a 'cradle roll' Southern Baptist. In Atlanta, I was in a leadership position there- President of the Choir, sang in a men's quartet, etc. HOWEVER, during the last 5 years of my life, I had a real "epiphany" of thought. I was raised in such a judgemental culture, and around so many Christians who led 'double lives', that it began to affect me. I was surrounded by the culture in my church and even my work. It grew weary and disgusting. In case of the WRBC situation, in their defense, THEY didn't change. I did. It was not my lifestyle anymore. I just could not handle it anymore.

BUT, with that being said, I respect each and every person of religious belief. But, I don't want any religion or church to over-lord over my personal beliefs. Despite what you might think, I still consider myself a Christian. But, NOT in the mold of modern day American "church culture."

Without being too long winded, I hope that answers some of what you asked.

Thanks for asking.

Charles

banthafodder
Comments: 6
Joined: 03/07/2007

03/07/2007 02:56:15 PM

Charles, I think I have heard that you were a member or deacon of the West Rome Baptist Church. Knowing that this is one of the most conservative churches in the area(on the "moral values" scale), why would you join this church to begin with, let alone rise to a leadership position. If those facts are correct, it would seem that you were at least complicit in, if not a proponent of, this so-called "moral elisitm". That church's values are clearly inimical to the lifestyle you live. Based on a cursory reading of the facts and rumors, it seems that you had no problem with these moral standards until they were turned against you. Retort?

maggie
Comments: 1554
Joined: 01/08/2006

03/07/2007 02:45:56 PM

Brian, my youngest son works in Dalton and I sure was hoping it was him that bought the winning ticket, but it was a truck driver who works for Mohawk. I am like you, I only buy one or two, never would I blow 100.00 on tickets. Although years ago at work a bunch of co-workers went in together and we bought 100 tickets and we won a whopping dollar!!!!!!!! It is fun to dream of what you could do if you won!!!!!

CharlesCraton
Comments: 18
Joined: 03/07/2007

03/07/2007 02:08:02 PM

Hello, my name is Charles Craton. I received a phone call this morning that I should sign up here on this RNT Blog to respond to some pretty serious accusations- especially against my family. I was told there was somehere here named "BIRDDOG" among others, that were harsh towards me.

So, here I am. Please comment directly to me and I will respond. If you want to communicate with me personally, you can email me at charles@cratononline.com.

With reference to my adult internet businesses, never, EVER, at any time have I devulged or shared the website addresses with anyone in Rome or Floyd County. Individuals have found them on their own, and frequent them on their own leisure or personal time. I have no control over people who want to go to the site, then become "shocked" and express rage. I compare that to someone getting in their car, driving to Atlanta to go to a strip club, and then- once inside- become enraged at the nudity. It's an extremely hypocritical position.

I am a transparent and open individual. So, fire away. I'll be glad to answer any questions AND if you want to bash me, bash away. But I think the RNT won't allow much personal attack (nor would I) so if there is anyway you can remain civil, I would appreciate it.

Thank you!

Charles Craton
www.support-the-cratons.com

maggie
Comments: 1554
Joined: 01/08/2006

03/07/2007 02:04:59 PM

Twinkie, I am so sorry, I know you are heartbroken.

banthafodder
Comments: 6
Joined: 03/07/2007

03/07/2007 01:45:10 PM

In response to Maggie and anyone else who believes that "moral decay" is ruining American society. If anything, this supposed amorality is just becoming more public. You mention that you doubt that our forefathers had porn or filthy language in mind when they wrote the first amendment." No, probably not. I doubt there was any sort of mainstream pornography in those days, and they were probably very careful in their language. What did they have on their minds? Oh, I don’t know, having illegitimate children with their slaves (not only for pleasure but to increase their number of slaves, think Sally Hemings)? Marginalizing huge portions of the population while hypocritically writing words that seemed all-encompassing or universal? Driving the Indians off of the land and causing huge numbers of deaths for economic gain? I find it hard to believe that God would have special preference for that 18th Century nation over the one we have today. If anything, our nation is becoming more moralistic while people who aren't moral are being less hypocritical.

kristie2490
Comments: 94
Joined: 12/14/2005

03/07/2007 01:03:59 PM

Hi Everyone! Twink ~ I am so so sorry to hear about your beloved pup...That is just heartbreaking! I worry so much about my cats. They LOVE to go outside and play in the woods and its just so dangerous! My heart and thoughts are with you... I know how sad you feel. Heres a big "cyber hug" for you....((((((((((((((((HUG))))))))))))))))))))

msla
Comments: 571
Joined: 12/29/2005

03/07/2007 11:49:31 AM

Oh, Twinkie, I'm so sorry!!!!!
How horrible for you and your family! I just hate hearing how this has ended. At least he's in doggie heaven now, playing with the angels. You have my heartfelt sympathy and prayers. These things can be so difficult on us! Love, msla

Twinkie
Comments: 418
Joined: 01/18/2006

03/07/2007 10:44:12 AM

My friends, I found the little dog. Evidently some kind of bird, maybe an owl got him. He has a puncture wound at his heart and two behind his front leg. He has been dead probably since last night. Now I need your prayers for the strength to tell my son that his best friend is gone. Thanks.