To Whom It May Concern,

My most recent article was about the Carolina Cup and I had received more feedback than my previous more controversial article. The responses from my friends have been positive, and I thank you for your support. Responses from all else have been not so great. I have thoroughly enjoyed all the comments, no matter how nasty they were. I actually found them very funny, especially when I was being tagged in my own article. I do take responsibility for my actions and I stand by my misinterpreted opinions. What I'd like to do is clear the air on the purpose of my article.

It seemed ironic to many that my profile picture was from The Cup because I gave off the impression that I did not enjoy it. Fact of the matter is, I freaking love it. I know this must be confusing that I'd write such a scornful article on something I look forward to attending every year, but there is a reason behind this.

One of my favorite authors is Dr. Hunter S. Thompson, the father of gonzo journalism. Gonzo journalism includes the journalist as part of the story, and narrates in a first person perspective. Gonzo journalism is very well known for being sarcastic, humorous and very exaggerated. If you've ever read "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas," you know exactly what I'm talking about. Dr. Thompson wrote and article for Scanlan's Monthly titled "The Kentucky Derby is Decadent and Depraved," and since I was going to a similar event, I decided I'd pay homage to one of my literary heroes. My goal was to have wild and imaginative descriptions to (almost) everything I experienced while I was there, and I succeeded.

What the Camdenites are so upset about is that I made a reference to their hometown as a "hick town." Look, I'm from the boonies of Cleveland, South Carolina. Until I moved to downtown Greenville, there was only one stoplight where I grew up. Most of the residents of Cleveland are missing copious amounts of teeth from their constant indulgences in tobacco products. So when I call Camden a "hick town," don't take it to heart. Those of us from South Carolina know we've got hicks no matter where you go.

I seriously know nothing about the town of Camden other than the fact that it hosts The Carolina Cup, so I admit that I was wrong for not doing my research and making a statement that would appeal to the masses of my audience. In my defense, the object of my articles is to get as much engagement as possible. So, of course, I was going to make controversial remarks; that's the essence of effective journalism.

A lot of people were also upset over my description of our men and women in blue. I have the utmost respect for our police officers and their duty to the community. It was very crucial for them to come to Camden and ensure the best quality of safety they could provide, and they have done an excellent job. But since Camden is a hidden jewel of South Carolina and cannot compete with the larger cities like Charleston, Greenville and Columbia, they do make a considerable amount of income off this event in fines. Since I only know Camden for horses and stables, I found it fitting to call the police officers by their farm animal name. It flowed much better that way and added to the imagery I was conveying.

An interesting topic people called me out for being a hypocrite on was my attire. Firstly, in my personal opinion, if you are not dressing as gaudy as possible for the occasion, then you are not doing it right. Second, other than the uniforms I am required to wear, I promise you that I dress with the same "Southern style," just much less vibrant than at The Carolina Cup.

If you came to the conclusion of the article, you should've noticed how disgusted I became with myself. I meant for this article to be pretentious, and it definitely was. I admitted that I discretely talked down to some strangers, and the conclusion reflects my self loathing and regret that I had stooped to an incredibly low level.

Thank you to all that took the time to read this and my previous article. I regret the ruckus I've caused and the bitter feelings you've felt. I am not bitter about my experiences, I was simply trying a new writing style to tribute to one of my favorite writers. I simply wanted to see if I could do it, and now I know that I can. Thank you for all the responses, because I've gotten a great deal of laughter from them. They are continuing to spread my fame as a writer, no matter how ludicrous my content may be. I found it humorous that I'd have to explain myself because some people can't handle another person's opinions, but I suppose that's just the way things are in the 21st century. I had no idea the Camdenites would be so angry over a lackidaisical remark I made about the town. What this proves is that Camden has a tight-knit community, and they care deeply for their origin. That is something to be cherished.

I am very gracious for your time and I look forward to writing more appealing things to my audience members that reside in Camden.

All the best and God bless,

Frank