Obama will visit S.C. Sunday

Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama will attend church in Columbia on Sunday.

The U.S. senator from Illinois will attend, but not speak, services at Brookland Baptist Church in West Columbia and First Baptist Church in Columbia, his campaign said Wednesday.

The two churches have a program where they exchange ministers and choirs. Brookland Baptist’s congregation is predominantly black and First Baptist is predominantly white.

Obama, the son of a black African father and white American woman, believes there are potential Obama voters at both churches.

“There are a lot of voters out there looking not just for a change of the person who is in the White House but for someone who can get beyond the politics of the day and beyond the partisanship,” Obama spokesman Kevin Griffis said.

— AARON GOULD SHEININ

Barrett calls on House to enforce immigration laws

U.S. Rep. Gresham Barrett, R-S.C., has introduced a resolution in the U.S. House calling on Congress to enforce immigration laws previously adopted.

Barrett, the Oconee County resident who represents South Carolina’s 3rd District, said Wednesday that members of Congress “need to live up to the laws you pass.”

“It’s real simple,” Barrett said. “If we say the fence is going to be funded, you need to fully fund it. If it says it needs to be built, you need to build it.”

Barrett introduced the resolution on Monday and later Wednesday has a meeting with between 70 and 100 other representatives in an effort to build support for the non-binding resolution.
The measure is an attempt to send a message to the House and Senate that the American people are angry about the immigration situation and Congress needs to better police itself.

While legislation has been adopted calling for a fence hundreds of miles long to be built along part of the U.S.-Mexico border, it is far from complete, Barrett said.

“These are laws that are on the books,” Barrett said. “These are commitments the United States Congress has made and for whatever reason there’s been very little oversight.”

Thompson picks up a dozen legislative endorsements

Republican presidential contender Fred Thompson picked up the endorsement of 12 South Carolina lawmakers Tuesday.
The former U.S. senator from Tennessee also has the support of U.S. Rep. Gresham Barrett, a Republican from Oconee County. Several of the 12 legislators named Tuesday had already endorsed Thompson, including Sen. Larry Grooms, R-Berkeley, Rep. Michael Thompson, R-Anderson and Rep. Harry Cato, R-Greenville.

Here’s the full list from the campaign:

Sen. Chip Campsen, R-Charleston
Sen. Ray Cleary, R-Georgetown
Sen. Larry Grooms, R-Berkeley
Sen. John Hawkins, R-Spartanburg.
Sen. Jim Ritchie, R-Spartanburg
Rep. Eric Bedingfield, R-Greenville.
Rep. Harry Cato, R-Greenville
Rep. Jeff Duncan, R-Laurens.
Rep. David Hiott, R-Pickens.
Rep. Dwight Loftis, R-Greenville Co.
Rep. Michael Thompson, R-Anderson.
Rep. Brian White, R-Anderson.

Romney will miss Okra Strut

Republican presidential hopeful Mitt Romney has postponed until October a series of South Carolina appearances scheduled for this weekend.

The former Massachusetts governor’s campaign said the events were moved to give Romney personal time this weekend.

Romney was to march in Saturday’s Okra Strut Parade in Irmo. While he’ll miss that event, the others have been rescheduled for Oct. 18.

Here’s the new schedule:

• At 8:15 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 18, he’ll hold an “Ask Mitt Anything” event at the Applewood Pancake House, 14361 Ocean Highway (U.S. 17) in Pawleys Island.
• At 11:40 a.m. he’ll attend a meet and greet at the home of Jeb and Mary Tepper, 1206 Wisteria Drive in Florence.
• Romney will end the day with a 6:15 “Ask Mitt Anything” and barbecue event at the Tega Cay Beach and Swim Club, 4420 Beach Club Lane, in Fort Mill.

Clyburn brings $80 million to S.C. for water needs

House Majority Whip James Clyburn, D-S.C., has secured $80 million in federal funding for South Carolina in the Water Resources Development Act Reauthorization, his office announced in a news release.

“I am pleased to see this legislation finally receive reauthorization. Passage of the Water Resources Development Act is seven years overdue," said Clyburn, who represents the 6th Congressional District that includes Columbia.

"There are critical water and environmental needs in South Carolina and across the country that will now receive the support they need.”             

Congressman Clyburn requested funding for the following projects:

• Lake Marion Regional Water Agency, $60 million
• City of Charleston, $4 million for drainage project
• Charleston Public Works, $16 million, wastewater and drainage  improvements and replacement of Ashley River Wastewater tunnels

1,200 Greenville jobs could be saved with vote

The State Budget and Control Board agreed to borrow $1.9 million from the state Energy Office to help save 1,200 jobs in Greenville County.

By a 3-1 vote, the board agreed to borrow the money, along with a $1 million grant from the Commerce Department, to make improvements to the Donaldson Center, which major tenant Lockheed Martin has asked for as it negotiates a new lease.

Gov. Mark Sanford voted against the project, arguing the state should use cash from the competitive grants program to pay for the project rather than borrow money in a tight budget year.

House Ways and Means Chairman Dan Cooper, R-Anderson, sponsored the resolution and joined with Senate Finance Chairman Hugh Leatherman, R-Florence, and Treasurer Converse Chellis to approve the plan. Comptroller General Richard Eckstrom, who participated via phone, did not vote.

The resolution requires the General Assembly to repay the loan next year.

Gov. Sanford's "Open Door after 4" meetings today

Today, Gov. Mark Sanford will hold another series of his "'Open Door After 4" meetings. Individual South Carolinians will have private, five-minute meetings with the governor in his office to discuss whatever issues are on their minds.

Those wishing to sign up for one of these meetings should call the Governor's Office at (803) 734-1999 beginning at 9:00 a.m.

Romney to tour S.C., march in Okra Strut parade

Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney will return to South Carolina this weekend for a series of events.

The Republican presidential hopeful will march in the Irmo Okra Strut Parade on Saturday before moving around the state.
Here’s the schedule of appearances:

• At 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Romney will participate in the Irmo Okra Strut Parade, at Crossroads Middle School, 6949 St. Andrews Road, Irmo.
• At 5:10 p.m., he will hold an “Ask Mitt Anything” and barbecue event at the Tega Cay Beach and Swim Club, 4420 Beach Club Lane, in Fort Mill.
• On Sunday at 1:15 p.m., Romney will attend a meet and greet at the home of Jeb and Mary Tepper, 1206 Wisteria Drive in Florence.
• Finally, at 4:05 p.m., he’ll hold another “Ask Mitt Anything” event at the Applewood Pancake House, 14361 Ocean Highway (U.S. 17) in Pawleys Island

Drummond says next session his last

The South Carolina Senate’s longest-serving current member said he will not run for re-election next year.

John Drummond, D-Greenwood, has served in the Senate since 1967. He is the last World War II veteran serving in the Legislature.

Drummond, who turns 88 a week from Saturday, served one term in the House before joining the Senate. Drummond led the Senate as President Pro Tem from 1996 until 2001, when Republicans took control of the body.

“It’s been an education for me,” Drummond said. “I think I’ve served long enough -- not that I don’t want to serve longer.”

Clyburn center to open in Orangeburg

A one-stop academic center for children and adults, named for House Majority Whip James Clyburn, will open today in Orangeburg.

The James E. Clyburn Community Empowerment Center will serve as a one-stop facility to provide youth and adults access to technology and education resources that will improve academic performance and prepare them for the emerging job market.

The center will be run by Orangeburg 5 school district. Other partners include HOPE Worldwide, Freddie Mac and the S.C. Department of Commerce. 

 

The initiative, aimed at advancing rural communities, will offer a variety ofservices that include:

• adult education
• basic skills training
• English as a second language education
• entrepreneurial programs
• literacy training
• web-based interactive learning
• leadership development. 

 The center is the fourth of its kind in S.C., according to a news release.

Clyburn will speak at the dedication.

Romney to appear at Okra Strut; unveils new ad

Republican presidential hopeful Mitt Romney will march in the Irmo Okra Strut on Sept. 29, the former Massachusetts governor’s campaign announced Friday.

Romney also will launch another new television ad in South Carolina on Saturday, spokesman Will Holley said.
No other details were available about Romney’s trip to the state next week.

The new ad, entitled “Change Begins With Us,” will join a previous ad, “Tested, Proven,” on S.C. airwaves. The campaign would not release details on how long the ads will run or on which networks.

To view the ad on the Internet, go to mitt-tv.mittromney.com/?showid378734.

The new ad features Romney speaking about his belief that change is needed in Washington and takes a swipe at his fellow Republicans. Here is the script:

ROMNEY: “If we’re going to change Washington, Republicans have to put our own house in order.
“We can’t be like Democrats —a party of big spending.
“We can’t pretend our borders are secure from illegal immigration.
“We can’t have ethical standards that are a punch line for Jay Leno.
“When Republicans act like Democrats, America loses.
“It’s time for Republicans to start acting like Republicans.
“It’s time for a change and change begins with us.
“I’m Mitt Romney and I approve this message.”

Giuliani campaign announces S.C. county chairs

Republican presidential hopeful Rudy Giuliani on Thursday announced the latest group of his county campaign leaders.
Now leading county efforts for the former New York mayor are:
Aiken County Co-Chairs
Todd Etheridge, mayor of Jackson
Don Sprawls, Aiken City council member and firefighter
Anderson County Co-Chairs
Richard Shirley, former Mayor of Anderson
Page Rice, Anderson County GOP 1st vice chair
Bamberg County Chair
Ronald Maxwell, local business leader and GOP activist
Cherokee County Chair
Daniel Lawrence, small business owner
Chester County Chair
David Tavernier, Chester GOP Executive Committee member and member of the Chester Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
Edgefield County Chair
Sonny Yonce, peach farmer
Florence County Chair and Co-Chairs
Kenneth Ard, Florence County council member, county chair
John Moss, retired doctor, county co-chair
Michael Reino, Florence County GOP vice chair, county co-chair
Georgetown County Co-Chairs
Clyde Davis, retired and local GOP activist
Kathryn Davis, retired, Sun Microsystems
Greenville County Chair
Dennis Jones, retired and local GOP activist
Lancaster County Chair
Rev. Norman Dobson, Pastor and local GOP activist
Lexington County Co-Chairs
Christopher Harmon, Auditor, Lexington County
Benjamin “Todd” Limehouse, manager, Palmetto Medical Products
Marlboro County Chair
Geraldine Scism, co-owner, Scism Construction
McCormick County Chair
Rita Smith, president of McCormick County GOP Women
Pickens County Chair
John Hawkins, retired and local GOP activist
Richland County Co-Chairs
William “Rusty” DePass, former State Election Commission chairman
Michael Montgomery, Richland County council member
Spartanburg County Co-Chairs
O’Neal Mintz, Spartanburg County council member
Walter McSherry, retired Army veteran and former National GOP delegate
Allison Black Strange, local GOP activist
Union County Chair
James Yarbrough, firefighter, Monarch Fire Department
York County Chair
Jeanie Quantz, local community activist

Obama's S.C. event postponed

Sen. Barack Obama has postponed a town hall-style meeting scheduled for today in Rock Hill because of business in the U.S. Senate.
The Democratic presidential candidate’s campaign says Obama needs to stay in Washington to cast votes on bills about the war in Iraq.
A new date for the town hall meeting has not been set.

Giuliani launches radio ad targeting MoveOn

Rudy Giuliani’s presidential campaign on Wednesday launched a new statewide radio ad in South Carolina that attacks liberal activist group MoveOn.org for attacking the Republican former New York City mayor.
The ad, entitled “Nightmare,” comes after MoveOn attacked Gen. Richard Patraeus, commander of U.S. forces in Iraq, in an advertisement in The New York Times and Giuliani responded with an ad in the paper attacking MoveOn and Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton.
Giuliani spokesman Elliott Bundy said the ad “gets straight to the point.”
“MoveOn.org and the Democratic Party know Rudy is a Republican who can beat the Democrats and no matter what they say — Rudy will never back down. That’s exactly the message resonating with South Carolina voters.”
The radio ad already is running in Iowa.
Go to www.joinrudy2008.com to listen to the ad. Here is the script:
Voiceover: “MoveOn.org is the most powerful left wing group in the country. They spent millions electing anti-war liberals. And publicly brag how the Democratic Party is theirs — bought and paid for.
“Why is MoveOn attacking Rudy Giuliani?
“Because he’s their worst nightmare.
“They know Rudy is a Republican who can beat the Democrats. And they know, no matter what they say — Rudy will never, ever back down.”
Giuliani: “I’m Rudy Giuliani, and I approve this message.”
Voiceover: “Paid for by the Rudy Giuliani Presidential Committee, Incorporated. joinrudy2008.com.”

Romney launches new S.C. television spot

Republican presidential hopeful Mitt Romney has launched a new television ad in South Carolina.
The ad, entitled “Tested, Proven” highlights what the for-mer Massachusetts governor says is his leadership in pushing conservative themes in one of the nation’s most liberal states.
No details were immediately available on the size of the ad buy or on which stations it will air.
To view the ad go to mitt-tv.mittromney.com/?showid63511
Here is the script:
ANNOUNCER (Voice Over): “In the most liberal state in the country, one Republican stood up and cut spending, instead of raising taxes.
“He enforced immigration laws, stood up for traditional marriage and the sanctity of human life.”
ROMNEY: “This isn’t the time for us to shrink from conservative principles. It’s a time for us to stand in strength. Strong military, strong economy, strong families.”
ANNOUNCER (Voice Over): “In the toughest place, Mitt Romney’s done the toughest things.”
ROMNEY: “I’m Mitt Romney and I approved this message.”

Sanford agrees state should disband Budget and Control

Gov. Mark Sanford said Monday he agrees with a lawsuit that seeks to disband the State Budget and Control Board.

Sanford, who was named as a defendant in the suit by Change SC Now, submitted a response to the suit basically agreeing with its claim that the Board is unconstitutional.

In a State House news conference, Sanford said the Board undermines the separation of government powers and contributes to inefficiencies in government.

The S.C. Supreme Court has yet to decide if it will hear the case.
The governor's office has hired Nelson Mullins law firm to represent Sanford and will pay for its services through an insurance policy.

McCain tells Aiken vets Dems will undermine war

U.S. Sen John McCain told a crowd of 150 people at an Aiken VFW hall he expects Democrats to try to undermine the war effort in Iraq when debate begins in the Senate tomorrow.

Democrats will not try to set a date for withdrawal, McCain said, but instead will try other tactics, such as requiring troops are rested during tours of duty.

McCain has been in South Carolina much of the weekend, campaigning for president. He will appear in Lexington this morning before heading on to Sumter and Charleston.

Huckabee returns to S.C. this week

Republican presidential hopeful Mike Huckabee will campaign in South Carolina on Wednesday and Thursday.

Huckabee, the former governor of Arkansas, will make the following appearances:

• At 5 p.m. Wednesday, he attends a “Meet Mike Huckabee” event with College Republicans at the University of South Carolina, Russell House, 1400 Greene St. For details, contact Adam Piper at (803) 237-0974.
• Then, at 6 p.m., he’ll hold a similar event at the Congaree Grill, 827 Harden St. Contact Piper for details.
• At 7:30 a.m. Thursday, Huckabee hosts another meet and great.
• The Other Pancake House, 5343 Sunset Blvd., Lexington. Contact Piper for details.
• At noon, Huckabee speaks to the Greenville County Republican Women at the Poinsett Club, 807 East Washington St. Contact Piper for details.

Finally, at 6 p.m., Huckabee will speak at the Palmetto Family Council Stump Meeting at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, 1101 Lincoln St. Contact Piper for details.

Obama returns to S.C. this week

U.S. Sen. Barack Obama of Illinois will return to South Caro-lina on Thursday for a town hall meeting in Rock Hill.
The Democratic presidential candidate will speak about “restoring economic fairness,” his campaign said Monday.
The event is free and open to the public but tickets are required. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. for the town hall at Freedom Center, 215 East Main St., in Rock Hill.
To get tickets, call (803) 980-0885. Or pick them up at the following locations:
York County
The Freedom Center
215 East Main St., Rock Hill
(803) 327-7888
Monday thorugh Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Winthrop University
346 Bancroft Hall, Rock Hill
(803) 323-2209
Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
McHales Irish Pub
122 E Main St., Rock Hill
(803) 329-8580
Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 12 a.m.
McHales Irish Pub
Tega Cay Drive (Hwy 160), Tega Cay
(803) 548-2151
Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 12 a.m.
Gaston Barber Shop
423 Saluda St., Rock Hill
(803) 327-6699
Tuesday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Obama Regional Office
1835 Ebenezer Road, Rock Hill
(803) 980-0885
Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
York Democratic Party
339 E Main St., Rock Hill
(803) 327-4222
Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Cupps coffee shop
221 Cherry Road, Rock Hill
(803) 327 1717
Monday and Wednesday from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Shear Images Hair Salon
Royal Plaza Cherry Road, Rock Hill
(803) 817 1970
Tuesday through Saturdayf rom 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Lancaster County
Arch Street Grocery
500 E Arch St., Lancaster
(803) 283-8302
Tuesday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Distinguished Cuts
401 E. Gay St., Lancaster
(803) 285-1202
Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
S and S Restaurant
414 Lancaster By Pass E, Lan-caster
(803) 283-3658
Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Unique Hair Design
208 W Meeting St., Lancaster
(803) 285-2512
Call ahead
Chester County
BB andC Printers
107 Gadsen St, Chester
(803) 581-0090
Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Father, Son, Holy Spirit Book-store
145 Gadsen St, Chester
(803) 377-1608
Monday and Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Cyclone Restaurant
249 Columbia St, Chester
(803) 377-1500
Monday through Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Shelton Barber Shop
214 Gadsen St, Chester
(803) 385-9253
Monday, Tuesday and Thurs-day from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Kershaw County
Williams Barber Shop
619 Rutledge St, C amden
(803) 243-6897
Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Graham Realty & Co.
216 E Dekalb St, C amden
Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Fairfield County
Paulings Barbershop
131 S. Congress St, Winns-boro
(803) 635-5324
Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Chesterfield County
People’s Barber Shop
310 N Elm St, Pageland
(843) 672-7830
Union
Keenan's Touch of Class
214 North Pickney St., Union
(864) 427-4950
Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Cherokee
Foster Funeral Home
312 N Petty St., Gaffney, SC
(864) 489-2422
Monday through Sundayf rom 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

DeMint joins Gingrich group

U.S. Sen. Jim DeMint will serve on the S.C. Solutions Team, part of a national effort to discuss remedies for America's national security and leadership challenges.

American Solutions, founded by former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich, will host free nationwide “Solutions Day” workshops on Saturday, Sept. 2.

“I am pleased that Senator DeMint is helping lead our Solutions Day efforts in South Carolina,” Gingrich said.   “Jim has fought hard for real solutions to real problems while serving in both the House and Senate."

“It is important for all citizens to be informed on the issues and be given the opportunity to offer their solutions to create a better life for themselves, their neighbors and their fellow Americans," DeMint said. "I believe the inaugural Solutions Day workshops on September 29 will offer citizens that opportunity.”

While serving on the South Carolina Solutions Team, Senator DeMint has encouraged his supporters to attend the Solutions Day workshops on September 29.

The workshops will take place at about 25 locations across South Carolina. 

To register for a workshop, or for more information, visit www.AmericanSolutions.com.

Giuliani to make Bluffton campaign stop

Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani returns to South Carolina today.

Giuliani, a Republican candidate for president, will visit with Bluffton residents at 7 p.m. at the Squat & Gobble, 1231 May River Road in Bluffton.

Clinton to speak at Charleston NAACP event

Democratic presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton will be in Charleston on Saturday to speak to the Charleston County chapter of the NAACP.

Clinton, a U.S. senator form New York, will address the 91st annual Charleston freedom Fund Banquet at 7 p.m. at the North Charleston Convention Center, 50555 International Blvd., North Charleston.

For tickets, call the Charleston NAACP at 843-552-1111.

Sorensen, Bauer, Ford join ONE Vote '08

The ONE Vote '08 campaign, which is organized to raise global poverty as a key foreign policy and national security issue, has added three prominent South Carolinians as ambassadors.

University of South Carolina President Andrew Sorensen, Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer and state Sen. Robert Ford, D-Charleston, have joined the group's bi-partisan leadership team.

"Ending poverty and increasing our own security are issues that we can tackle in our lifetimes," Sorensen said. "Through brave presidential leadership and popular will, wecan improve the lives of millions who lack basic food, education, medical care and access to clean water."

As ambassadors, Sorensen, Bauer and Ford will help raise awareness about extreme poverty and disease and discuss the strategic and cost-effective steps the next president can take to fight it like never before, according to a news release. They will help advise the ONE Campaign to reach more

South Carolina

voters, speak on behalf of the organization, and urge Democratic and Republican presidential candidates to address issues of hunger and malnutrition, clean water and children’s health by incorporating them into their 2008 platforms.

 South Carolina ONE Vote ’08 has 29 ambassadors, including:

Joe Wilson (co-chair)

Jim Hodges (co-chair)

Barbara Nielsen

Joe Erwin      

Bob Coble      

Leon Love      

Reverend Charles Jackson

Leslie Burton

Dr. DeAnne K. Hilfinger Messias

Minor Shaw

Floyd Nicholson

Nic Billig

Hiram

Spain

Oran

Smith

Hunter Howard

Rev. Ronnie E. Brailsford, Sr.

Inez Tenenbaum

Steven Benjamin

I.S. Leevy-Johnson

Tameika Isaac Devine

Jack Meadors

Ted  Felder

Jamarr Brown   

Wendell Estep

Jim Sonefeld

Ashley Landess

Dr. Andrew Sorensen

Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer

State Sen. Robert  Ford

 

Sanford to announce emergency prepardness campaign

Gov. Mark Sanford, as part of National Preparedness Month, will  announce Tuesday the kickoff of "Be Ready! South Carolina," a disaster awareness and preparedness campaign.

Sanford will be joined by Chief Robert Stewart of the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, Director Ron Osborne of the South Carolina Emergency Management Division, Commissioner Earl Hunter of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control and representatives of the University of South Carolina.

The announcement will take place at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday at the South Carolina Emergency Management Division at 2779 Fish Hatchery Road, West Columbia, S.C.

Sanford cabinet meeting Tuesday

Gov. Mark Sanford will hold the 52nd Cabinet meeting of his administration and the ninth of 2007 Tuesday, according to a news release from the governor's office.

The meeting will be held at 9:30 a.m. at the Wade Hampton Building in the Governor's Conference Room on the first floor.

During the meeting, the Department of Revenue will give a revenue update, the Department of Health and Human Services will give updates on implementation of the S.C. Healthy Connections program and on Medicaid transportation issues, and the Department of Social Services will give an update on the adoption task force.

Bill Clinton praises S.C. Gov. Riley

Former President Bill Clinton, in an interview on ETV's "The Big Picture on the Radio, lavished praise on former South Carolina Gov. Dick Riley, who served in Clinton's cabinet as secretary of education.

Riley, Clinton said, "was a great governor and a great secretary of education."

Clinton said in the interview, which airs on ETV Radio Friday, Sept. 7 at 9 a.m.,Riley "cared about results and not show. "


Clintons also said:

"(Riley) knew that you could make a lot of headlines in education, but the only thing that really mattered was whether the children were making headway. So he succeeded in getting almost every state in the country, all but one, to adopt comprehensive standards to upgrade their schools. He supported his fellow governor, North Carolina Governor Jim Hunt's, proposal to try to put a... trained and certified master teacher in every school in America."

"He did big things, for which he often got too little credit because he is a modest man who's not a self-promoter and because I think that, for reasons I don't entirely understand, there was very little press interest in the progress we were making in education when I was president. Maybe because it wasn't controversial enough and people were more interested in things that were. But I'm very proud of his legacy, and he should be proud of it.It's something that will have enduring value to the children and the young people of this country."

"He worked very, very hard to overhaul the student loan program and supervise the largest increase in aid to people to go to college since the GI Bill after World War II. We increased the numbers of people getting higher education by 10 million. We reduced the student-loan default rate. And he completely overhauled that."

When asked how the campaign is going for U.S. Sen. Hillary Clinton, in her bid to win the Democratic nod to run for president, especially in regards to the African-American population in South Carolina, Clinton said:

"Well, I hope she's doing well. I think she is. I am very gratified by her leaders in South Carolina and her grassroots' supporters and the way she has been received. I am very grateful for the support of so many of our old friends in South Carolina, including Gov. Riley. But I think the main thing is the people that are sticking up for her there--who know her--and the reception she's gotten when she's come there and been in debates and campaigning in communities, has been very heartening to me. I trust the people in elections. I know that Hillary wears well--I met her 36 years ago. She wears well. The longer this goes on, the better she'll do because the more people see her the more they'll like her and the more they will have confidence in her and see that she is the person most ready, best prepared -- most ready mentally and emotionally--to be president, to make these decisions and to get this country moving again. So, I'm really grateful and I hope...she asks me to come to South Carolina some more to campaign for her, because you know I love to come down there. It gives me an excuse to see my friends, and stay warm. So, I'll be trying to come down and help her, too."

"The Big Picture on the Radio" can be heard Fridays at 9 a.m. on ETV Radio.

Poll: Thompson, Giuliani in dead heat among Republicans

Republican presidential hopefuls Rudy Giuliani, the former New York mayor, and former U.S. Sen. Fred Thompson are in a statistical dead heat, according to The Clemson University Palmetto Poll.

The poll asked likely voters in the South Carolina Republican and Democratic presidential primaries about their candidate preferences.

Among Democrats, U.S. Sen. Hillary Clinton leads U.S. Sen. Barack Obama  26 percent to 16 percent.

The poll also finds about one-quarter of the voters in each party say they have a good idea about who they will support in the Republican primary on Jan. 19, 2008, or the Democratic primary scheduled for Jan. 29, 2008.

“The fact that Fred Thompson, who has just now announced for the race, is virtually tied with Giuliani means that the Republicans are searching for an alternative to the familiar candidates,” said Clemson University Strom Thurmond Professor of Political Science David Woodard. “The number of undecided voters means that the race in South Carolina will be hotly contested, and the outcome decisive in the national races.”

The poll also found:

• The black vote in South Carolina is up for grabs, with Hillary Clinton (28 percent) and Barack Obama (23 percent) battling for that vote
• 40 percent of likely African American primary voters are undecided, "meaning the battle for black voters in South Carolina is wide open,” said Clemson professor Bruce Ransom
• Voters in both parties rank the Iraq war as the most important problem for the country
• Republicans are more concerned about terrorism and immigration, while Democrats are more interested in health care. 
• Respondents from both parties list the economy and faith and values as important matters candidates must address in the upcoming primary.
• U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham, who is up for re-election in 2008, would get more than one-third of the GOP primary vote regardless of who runs against him. 

Four hundred respondents were interviewed in each party for a total of 800 respondents, according to a news release. The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 4.9 percent in each party subgroup. 

Bill Clinton in S.C. Thursday to speak to Baptists

Former President Bill Clinton will visit Myrtle Beach Thursday to speak to the National Baptist Convention of America Inc., an organization that represents more than 5 million African American Baptists.

Clinton, who just recently released his latest book "Giving," has been making joint appearances with is wife, U.S. Sen. Hillary Clinton, a Democratic presidential hopeful.   

The Clinton campaign confirmed the former president's visit today.

Richardson woos S.C. union vote

New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson promised S.C. union members in McCormick Wednesday he would appoint a union leader to be Secretary of Labor if he were elected president.

Richardson, trying to break into the top tier of Democratic presidential candidates, which include U.S. Sens. Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama and former U.S. Sen. John Edwards, addressed the annual meeting of the AFL-CIO's S.C. chapter.

"In a Richardson White House, labor will always have a seat at the table,"  Richardson told the group. 

Richardson is the only candidate who has addressed the group in person. Other campaigns have sent representatives.

Richardson's speech, which was well received, noted his support of organized labor and touched on a variety of other subjects as well -- including pulling U.S. troops out of Iraq and his record as governor of New Mexico.

"I have always stood up for unions because you are the backbone of America's middle class."

More law enforcement, fire chiefs join Giuliani

Rudy Giuliani’s presidential campaign on Wednesday named Goose Creek Police Lt. Dave Soderberg as his chairman of S.C. Law Enforcement for Rudy.

Soderberg joins the Republican’s bid for the 2008 presidential nomination along with Croft Fire Chief Lewis Hayes as leaders of the campaign’s S.C. First Responders Team.

Also, the former New York mayor’s campaign announced that Duncan Fire Chief Barry Frost, Newberry Fire Chief Joe Palmer and Irmo Fire Chief Michael Sonefeld will co-chair Firefighters for Rudy in South Carolina.

McCain bus tour to rally support for troops

 

 

Republican presidential hopeful John McCain is launching a three-day bus tour across South Carolina to rally support for U.S. troops. The event, called the "No Surrender Tour," will feature former POWs, Medal of Honor recipients and veterans. It will begin Saturday, Sept. 15, and will end, Monday, Sept. 17.

The tour, according to a McCain campaign press release, is meant to send the message that pulling out of Iraq prematurely is not an option for America.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2007

VETERANS APPRECIATION BREAKFAST AND NO SURRENDER RALLY
8:45 A.M.
VFW Post 2889
732 West Main Street
Rock Hill, South Carolina

VETERANS APPRECIATION BBQ AND NO SURRENDER RALLY
12:15 P.M.
Rogers BBQ
2004 Second Loop Road
Florence, South Carolina

VETERANS APPRECIATION BBQ AND NO SURRENDER RALLY
4:45 P.M.
VFW Post 10804
111 Highway 57 North
Little River, South Carolina

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2007

NO SURRENDER RALLY
1:00 P.M.
Kingfisher Restaurant
18 Harbourside Lane
Hilton Head, South Carolina

VETERANS APPRECIATION BBQ AND NO SURRENDER RALLY
4:00 P.M.
VFW Post 5996
1905 Highway 29 North
Anderson, South Carolina

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2007

VETERANS APPRECIATION BREAKFAST AND NO SURRENDER RALLY
8:45 A.M.
VFW Post 5877
116 Midway Circle
Aiken, South Carolina

VETERANS APPRECIATION LUNCH AND NO SURRENDER RALLY
11:45 A.M.
American Legion Post 7
211 American Legion Rd.
(Just off Harmon Street)
Lexington, South Carolina

NO SURRENDER RALLY
2:15 P.M.
VFW Post 3034
1925 Gion St.
Sumter, South Carolina

NO SURRENDER RALLY
6:30 P.M.
The Holliday Alumni Center
The Citadel
69 Hagood Avenue
Charleston, South Carolina

Romney names youth panel

Republican presidential hopeful Mitt Romney has named the South Carolina members of his campaign's Young Professionals for Mitt Coalition.

The former Massachusetts governor's youngest son, Craig, and Craig's wife, Mary, held a Young Professionals for Mitt event in Columbia Tuesday and was schedule to hold an event at Charleston Southern University later that day to kick off the coalition.

This week, Craig, Mary, and their son Parker are driving the Mitt Mobile across the Palmetto State to highlight South Carolina Youth for Mitt.

Members Of South Carolina Young Professionals For Mitt include:

Calhoun County
Preston Stroman

Charleston County
Wylie Haislip
Ashley Tison

Greenville County
Andru Bloquist
Karen Culpepper
Megan Kocis
Kim Matlock
Shannon Morris

Florence County
Kari Yomans

Horry County
Heather Asvestas
Stephanie Beatty
Sherry Clardy
Janice Cox
Andy Ellis
Amiee Justice
Neil Justice
Rick Smith
Allison Taylor

Richland County
Jason Branham
Kathryn Fleming
Matt Jennings
Robyn Paschall
Kendall Robinson

York County
Rod Benfield

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sanford, delegation in China on business

Gov. Mark Sanford and a delegation of South Carolina business leaders and legislators are leaving today for Dalian, China to attend  the World Economic Forum's inaugural "New Champions" meeting.

The governor's office, in a news release, said the Dalian conference presents a unique opportunity for the state, given that Gov. Sanford was the only U.S. governor invited to attend.

Sanford, according to the release, will be joined by:

• Marty Brown, President of Colite International;
• Mike Johnson, President of Cox Industries;
• Forester Adams, President of Joseph Walker & Co;
• Derick Close, President and CEO of Creative Products Group for Springs Industries;
• Guerry Green, President Screen Tight;
• O.L. Thompson, President of O.L. Thompson Construction and Chairman of Santee Cooper.

State Reps. Mick Mulvaney and Nikki Haley and Sen. Greg Ryberg are also traveling with Sanford, representing the General Assembly.

"I think attending this conference is a real compliment to some of the people who've worked hard on behalf of economic development over the years in this state," Gov. Sanford said in the news release. "In the global competition for jobs and investment, South Carolina - like these private sector companies - has both some real challenges and opportunities in what lies ahead in today's world.

"We believe this trip will result in some real dividends for our state down the road, both as we learn more about how to compete in this new world and in building relationships with global business leaders."

The World Economic Forum is an independent international organization, best known for its Davos meeting, which is held each March in Davos, Switzerland.  The attendees are the CEO's of the world's top 1200 companies.