Book excerpt: This is a collection of columns, written when I was editor of the Greer Citizen newspaper, that focuses on my hometown. I took up writing "Off the Record" when my father, Edd A. Burch, passed away in 1985. He started "Off the Record" as editor of the Dalton (Ga.) Citizen, and continued the column when he purchased the Greer Citizen in 1942. Over the years, the columns garnered awards from the South Carolina Press Association, and thousands of readers requested that I publish them in a book. - Author. This book truly brings out the rich heritage of small-town America. From a small town barbershop to the state football championship, Burch's waggish tongue-in-cheek approach will bring a smile to any and all. - William James, on back cover.