The Meeting Street Murders (Photos)
web posted February 29, 2008
EDGEFIELD – There has been a rather lively discussion in the Wandering Minds Section regarding Sue Logue (Left) and the Meeting Street murders. To help sort out some of the details that seem to be disputed, EdgefieldDaily.com spoke to those who provided a fairly accurate account of what took place. According to them the story began in September of 1940 when Davis Timmerman's mule got into Wallace Logue's field and the mule kicked and killed Logue's calf. Logue demanded that Timmerman pay him $20 for the calf and Timmerman agreed. Logue later went to Timmerman’s rural store and decided he wanted $40 in restitution instead of $20 and Timmerman refused to pay.
EdgefieldDaily.com

SC House stiffens DUI bill, Gov. Sanford prods Senate
web posted February 29, 2008
COLUMBIA – Governor Mark Sanford said Thursday that he is pleased the SC House reinstated the original stiffer penalties to the DUI bill the Senate removed before they passed their version of  the bill (H.3496) a week ago. "This law is about sending a clear message to drunk drivers that we're serious about tougher punishments, as well as sending a clear message to law enforcement that we're serious about giving them the tools they need to keep people safe."
EdgefieldDaily.com

Forty STHS Students Inducted into Millennium Club
web posted February 29, 2008
JOHNSTON – Forty STHS students have been recognized as new members of the STHS Millennium Club. In order to earn the privilege of becoming a Millennium Club member students must score a 21 or better on the ACT, are 1000 or higher on the SAT.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Merriwether Middle Band Students in Region 2 All-State Band (Photo)
web posted February 29, 2008
MERRIWETHER – Four Merriwether Middle students have been selected to present Edgefield County in the Region 2 All-State Band. The students were selected by auditions in January. The Region clinic was held February 22 and 23 at Lander University.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Edgefield's Sam Crouch Earns National Award
web posted February 28, 2008
ATLANTA — Sam Crouch, Sr. of Edgefield, was honored with the C.B. McCleod Award during the National Wild Turkey Federation's National Convention and Sport Show in Atlanta, Ga., Feb. 22 to Feb. 24. Crouch, a NWTF Life Member, has a long history with the Federation.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Johnston Mayor Graduates from Municipal Elected Officials Institute of Government
web posted February 28, 2008
COLUMBIA – Mayor Willie Campbell from the Town of Johnston graduated from the Municipal Elected Officials Institute of Government on February 20. Graduates received their diplomas during the Municipal Association of South Carolina’s Hometown, SC Legislative Action Day in Columbia.
EdgefieldDaily.com

UCLA students document Planned Parenthood accepting financial donations targeting abortions of unborn blacks
web posted February 28, 2008
NATIONAL – A student-run magazine at UCLA has revealed through an undercover investigation that representatives of Planned Parenthood, the nation's leader in abortions, admitted a willingness to accept a financial donation targeting the abortion of an unborn black baby. Lila Rose, who posed as one of the callers, gave the following account of one of the calls in her report.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Johnston Town Councilman Tommy Burton's Unedited Letter to the Editor
web posted February 28, 2008
Dear Editor,
I am writing This Letter to clear up a Post written to The Edgefield Daily.Com Wandering Mines. Which could have been Misleading to some of it Readers. web posted feb-18,2008 The Posters comment was, (And I am Quoting The comment,) After reading your column on Norman Dorn, I couldn’t help but Laugh At how many Johnston Residents know They have Their own version of him in Tommy Burton. Speaking of Norman Dorn, people would be Surpise to see what could be found if a criminal records background check was Done on him (End of quote)
EdgefieldDaily.com

Councilman Tommy Burton should let "sleeping dogs lie"
A Column by the Editor
web posted February 28, 2008
COLUMN – By now I am sure most of you have read the edited Letter to the Editor sent to the Citizen News and the Edgefield Advertiser by Johnston Town Councilman Tommy Burton. If you have not, I have obtained an original copy and have reproduced it verbatim online. I believe it is important to allow the author of a Letter to the Editor to go unedited. A lot can be gleaned from the author’s actual words. Although I will be responding to the letter in an upcoming issue of our local papers, I wanted to take this opportunity give readers of EdgefieldDaily.com a sneak peek of my thoughts.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Governor Sanford Issues Statement on Death of William F. Buckley
web posted February 28, 2008
COLUMBIA – February 27, 2008 -Governor Mark Sanford issued the following statement Wednesday on the death of William F. Buckley.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Cedar Grove Baptist Church to hold Auction
web posted February 28, 2008
EDGEFIELD – The Cedar Grove Baptist Church Family solicits your support in our efforts to build a new Sanctuary. We will be hosting an Auction on March 1, 2008 at 110 Morgan-Bussey Rd. Edgefield beginning at 8:00am. Professional auctioneers from Murrell’s Auction Company of Trenton, SC will be conducting the auction at no cost. Please help us in this endeavor. You may contact DeQuawn Smith at (803) 480-3297 or email cedargrovebaptist@unionthirddivision.org for directions.

Sweetwater Road blocked as high winds topple trees in the area (Photos)
web posted February 27, 2008
MERRIWETHER – As the rain cleared, the cold front began moving into the area and the winds began to blow and the trees began to fall. A large pine tree was reported down and completely blocking Sweetwater Road near the entrance to Mt. Vintage just before 6 pm Tuesday. The towering pine took down power lines and crashed through two fences. Sheriff’s Deputies and the Merriwether Fire Department arrived on the scene and turned traffic back on both sides of the tree.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Students Tour USC School of Medicine
web posted February 27, 2008
JOHNSTON – Strom Thurmond High School Seniors Christopher Robinson, Corina Kitcey, Parker Northrop and Dontavia West attended the annual “Role Models in Medicine” program held at the USC School of Medicine on February 22. The event included scientific demonstrations, a tour of the campus and an opportunity for the students to meet and talk with medical students and faculty.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Mother, son escape injury in morning crash (Photos)
web posted February 27, 2008
BETTIS ACADEMY – A woman and her son traveling north on Highway 25 around 10 am Tuesday morning found themselves and their Ford Expedition in a ravine after a red Ford Astro van exited out of a nearby nursery in front of the woman causing her to lose control of the SUV on the rain slick highway. The driver of the van stopped and then fled the scene without offering aid.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Crash slows traffic on Highway 19 (Photos)
web posted February 27, 2008
TRENTON – Sheriff’s Deputies, the Trenton Fire Department, and Edgefield County EMS were summoned to a report of a crash with the driver unconscious and possibly entrapped in the vehicle on the 3300 block of Highway 19 just after 2 Tuesday afternoon. When the first rescuers arrived on the scene they began treating the man who regained consciousness and became combative. The man told EMS workers and deputies he was not hurt and all he needed was a tow truck so he could continue on his way.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Strom Thurmond Rebels Sweep Tournament
web posted February 27, 2008
JOHNSTON – The STHS Rebels won the 4th Annual Heritage Classic Tournament on Saturday, February 23rd. The Rebels defeated Silver Bluff High School 4-3 in penalty kicks (PK) that went to sudden death. Derek Vaughn, a sophomore, scored the wining PK. Derek Vaughn described his feelings on taking the sudden death PK as “It was scary.”
EdgefieldDaily.com

Letter to the Editor: Writer seeks to save American Legion Post
web posted February 27, 2008
Dear Editor,
I recently attended the funeral of a friend, who had served his country many years ago.  As always, I was moved by the sounds of “Taps,” and the salutes of the honor guard provided by his service.  Whether he was Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine or Coast Guard did not matter.  All that mattered was that he had served.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Gov. Sanford: Budget Risks Health of Medicaid, State's Finances
web posted February 27, 2008
COLUMBIA – Governor Mark Sanford visited hospitals in Greenville and Charleston Tuesday, calling on the House to rework the Ways and Means Committee's proposed budget, so that it doesn't take from reserve funds and impact the state's ability to provide Medicaid for its neediest citizens.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Edgefield Library announces upcoming activities
web posted February 27, 2008
EDGEFIELD – The Edgefield Library has announced several upcoming activities planned for March at the library including a “Teen Movie Night”. All activities are free and the pubic is invited to attend.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Off The Wall: Dem Debate Leads to Stabbing
COLLEGEVILLE, Pa. (CBS 3) ― The Montgomery County District Attorney's Office is investigating a politically motivated stabbing that left one in-law hospitalized and another in prison. Authorities said brother-in-laws Jose Ortiz and Sean Shurelds were involved in a verbal altercation over Democratic presidential hopefuls Barack Obama and Hillary Rodham Clinton when the argument escalated into a stabbing inside their family home on Honeylocust Court in Collegeville.
Off The Wall

Burglary and high speed pursuit keep Deputies busy Monday night
web posted February 26, 2008
COUNTY LINE – The J&L Country Mart on Highway 25 was the scene of a Monday night burglary when two black males were seen inside the store after closing. Edgefield County Deputies converged on the store but arrived shortly after the suspects fled the area. When the first deputy arrived it was confirmed that the two had made entry into the store.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Police, Deputies deal with several fights Saturday night
web posted February 26, 2008
JOHNSTON – A Johnston bar is at the center of a fight that has Johnston Police trying to sort through several suspects after fights broke out at the bar and then surrounding areas after the bar was closed. Just before midnight Saturday officers in the area saw several people running out of John’s Club located at 320 Addison Street and went to investigate. Johnston Police and Sheriff’s Deputies arrived and found one man exiting the club bleeding from his right eye.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Pit Bulls at center of another animal abuse case
web posted February 26, 2008
EDGEFIELD – Pit bulls have once again made the list of animal cruelty and abandonment cases, this time being left behind after the owner was evicted from the home. The Sheriff’s Animal Control Officer was called to a home on the 300 block of Gary Hill Road in Edgefield with a complaint of two dogs being chained up with no food or water.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Strom Thurmond High School students gear up for South Carolina Bar High School Mock Trial Competition
web posted February 26, 2008
COLUMBIA – Strom Thurmond High School students competed in the South Carolina Bar Regional High School Mock Trial Competition Saturday, February 23, at the Greenville County Courthouse. The local students had an excellent showing and will now compete in the State Mock Trial Competition March 7 and 8 in Columbia, SC.   Caitlen Jebens and Tre’ Wright received Best Attorney Awards and Nery Hernandez and C’Shara Lott received Best Witness Awards.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Lost Dogs : FOUND!
web posted February 26, 2008
EDGEFIELD – An Edgefield family is seeking help in the return of two family pets that were found missing from Wigfall Street Saturday evening. The dogs are a male lemon and white Basset Hound and a brindle male Boston Terrier. The Boston Terrier's collar is a burgundy Palmetto tree and Crescent moon design but has no identification on it. It does have the large Wireless Fence mechanism attached. Anyone with information is asked to call 637-3528. Click on pictures for a larger view.

Trenton home site of most recent burglary
web posted February 26, 2008
TRENTON – A Trenton home located on Sable Lane was found burglarized this weekend while the owners were out of town. The owner’s sister arrived on Saturday afternoon to check on the home and found the front door “kicked in” and notified the Sheriff’s Office.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Strom Thurmond High School Chorus Students Take Top Ratings (Photo)
web posted February 26, 2008
JOHNSTON – Twelve chorus students attended the South Carolina Music Education Association's Solo and Ensemble Festival on Saturday, February 23 at Irmo Middle School. The students were selected from the Gifted and Talented Chorus Class to participate.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Hospice Care of South Carolina Announces Winner of First Annual Sweet Heart Contest
web posted February 26, 2008
EDGEFIELD – Hospice Care of South Carolina recently held their first annual “Sweet Heart” contest. The contest was open to all who work in the healthcare field in Edgefield County.  Hospice Care of South Carolina appreciates the fact that the healthcare field is increasing in excellence. New procedures and treatments are enabling people to live longer and fuller lives.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Business Directory continues to grow – Get your Business Noticed
web posted February 25, 2008
WEBNEWS – The EdgefieldDaily.com Business Directory continues to grow with additions each week. Need to cut timber, sell your land, or your home? We can help put you in touch with local businesses that can help. Need hunting supplies, a special gift, home or auto repairs? It can all be found with the click of a mouse with the yellow Business Directory button located to the left just below our Featured Sections. Visit the Business Directory today, the most cost effective advertising available in Edgefield County to the largest readership available. List your business today.

North Carolina woman injured in crash near Edgefield Saturday (Photos)
web posted February 25, 2008
EDGEFIELD – A North Carolina woman was injured in a single car crash Saturday morning just outside of Edgefield. The crash occurred just after 8 am when the woman’s Dodge Intrepid left the roadway and slammed into a group of trees.
EdgefieldDaily.com

STHS Art Students Win Recognition (Photo)
web posted February 25, 2008
JOHNSTON – Four Strom Thurmond High School students have had their art work selected for placement in the 14th Annual South Carolina Junior Duck Stamp competition. Quantrez Simpkins placed 2nd and Mary Mickelsen received an honorable mention. Walt Morgan and Paloma Luna won the conservation message awards. Ms. Beth Roberson is the Art Instruction at the local high school.
EdgefieldDaily.com

North Carolina man ruled sixth fatality in Aiken County after hit-and-run collision
web posted February 25, 2008
NORTH AUGUSTA – A North Carolina man became the sixth traffic fatality in Aiken County around 3 am Saturday morning in a hit-and-run collision on Atomic Road, Aiken County Coroner Tim Carlton said. 24 year old, Gregorio C. Cruz of Hendersonville NC was pronounced dead at the scene after being ejected from the Ford Expedition he was traveling in when it was struck by a 1992 brown Ford F150 pickup truck. It is unknown if Mr. Cruz was the driver or passenger of the Expedition.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Aiken man dies after Russian Roulette incident
web posted February 25, 2008
CLEARWATER – A 22-year-old Aiken man is dead after a shooting at the Advanced Auto Parts Store in Clearwater. Ricky Antonio Harris was pronounced dead shortly after arrival at the MCG Trauma Unit is Augusta Aiken County Coroner Tim Carlton said.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Dr. Myers: Twelve Sure-Fire Ways to Wreck Our Faith
Part 5 of 5
By: Dr. Skip Myers
web posted February 25, 2008
COLUMNIST – At last we have arrived at numbers eleven and twelve in this series. I hope this list has served as a checklist for your faith. So many times we arrive at a place of spiritual wreckage and we’re not sure how we got there. In my life, I have found a majority of the time the answer can be found in one of the twelve elements we have discussed. It also helps to do whatever we can to avoid a wreck by placing a greater amount of focus on our relationship with the Lord. This way we don’t get blind-sided because we weren’t paying attention.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Lady Pats advance to State Championship Tournament unbeaten
web posted February 25, 2008
JOHNSTON – Wardlaw Academy's Lady Patriots added the SCISA Region 1-A Tournament title to their regular season championship last Monday with a 56-17 win over Laurens Academy. The semi-final, 54-14 win over Long Cane and tournament final also kept the Lady Patriots unbeaten going into the State Championship Tournament that starts today at Orangeburg Prep.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Two Rebels named to SC 3-A All-State Team
web posted February 25, 2008
JOHNSTON – Strom Thurmond High senior forward Leroy Gilchrist and junior guard Courtney Mealing were named to the South Carolina Coaches All-State AAA basketball team earlier this week.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Lost Dog
web posted February 25, 2008
MERRIWETHER – Lost Male Black Labrador 5 years old named Cortez Las seen Jan 12, 2008 in Edgefield County, SC near Martintown Rd. Neutered, was wearing orange collar, short black hair, missing one lower front tooth.  Microchipped Please call 813- 784-3585. Click on picture for a larger view.

Rep. Curtis Brantley Announces Re-election Bid (Photo)
web posted February 25, 2008
RIDGELAND, SC -  Representative Curtis Brantley announced Friday that he would be seeking a second term in the SC House of Representatives.  Brantley was joined atop the steps of the Jasper County Courthouse by several community leaders, including Pastor William Galloway, Theodus Drayton, Clifford Brantley and Herman Brantley in announcing his intentions.
EdgefieldDaily.com

America is entrenched in idol worship, destruction of fathers
A Column by the Editor
web posted February 25, 2008
COLUMN – Whether you believe in the Bible or not, those with an honest and factual account of history knows that every society that found itself engulfed in idol worship soon found itself eviscerated. America in the 21st century is markedly on its way there.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Off The Wall: IRS wants taxes on $60,000 from 7-year-old due to illegal alien
web posted February 25, 2008
Another Carpentersville resident has gotten a notice from the IRS, demanding back taxes on income. The IRS says the resident owes taxes on $60,000. Only this victim is 7. Yes, a second-grader.
Off The Wall

Wild Game Supper and Beast Feast
web posted February 23, 2008
MERRIWETHER – Sweetwater Baptist Church will be holding their annual Wild Game Supper and Beast Feast tonight in the "Big Tent" at the church. Supper begins at 5 pm featuring a variety of wild game and fish with all the trimmings. Program begins at 6 pm with Keynote speaker Kyle Woodfin. Everyone welcome, men women, and children. Door prizes will be given away. Wear your hunting or fishing attire.

Toyota Tapestry Grant Received
web posted February 23, 2008
JOHNSTON – Penny Morris and Debbie Courtney have been notified that they are the recipients of a Toyota Tapestry Grant in the amount of $9,800. The project titled “Coffee Talk for Science” will be implemented at both STHS and JET Middle School.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Twenty-Three Students Named as Junior Scholars
web posted February 22, 2008
COUNTY – The Edgefield County School District is proud to announce that twenty-three eighth grade students have been named Junior Scholars.  For a student to receive this prestigious award, they must score greater than or equal to 50 in verbal, math and writing on the PSAT.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Gov. Sanford: Ways and Means Budget Borrows from Peter to Pay Paul
web posted February 22, 2008
COLUMBIA – Governor Mark Sanford called on the House to rework the Ways and Means Committee's proposed budget so that it doesn't take from reserve funds and impact the state's ability to provide Medicaid for its neediest citizens. Under the Committee's proposal, more than $100 million would be taken from a fund set aside for Medicaid reserves in the case of an increase in Medicaid population, and to transition to new Medicaid reforms. The Committee's proposal would seriously deplete this fund Gov. Sanford said.
EdgefieldDaily.com

The Great Flood in 2008
A Column by the Editor
web posted February 22, 2008
COLUMN – It was a slow news day and with the extra time I began thinking about what national media reports would be like if the Great Flood and Noah’s Ark were to take place today. The headline jumped out at me, “Worldwide Flood threatens mankind - Liberals and Democrats hardest hit” or even more likely, “Environmentalists say flooding due to global warming”.  We might even see a headline proclaiming, “Religious right tied to recent catastrophe”.
EdgefieldDaily.com

The left: New York Times slams McCain after endorsement
web posted February 22, 2008
WASHINGTON — Early in Senator John McCain’s first run for the White House eight years ago, waves of anxiety swept through his small circle of advisers.
A female lobbyist had been turning up with him at fund-raisers, visiting his offices and accompanying him on a client’s corporate jet. Convinced the relationship had become romantic, some of his top advisers intervened to protect the candidate from himself — instructing staff members to block the woman’s access, privately warning her away and repeatedly confronting him, several people involved in the campaign said on the condition of anonymity.
New York Times

The Right: Clintons to face fraud trial - Judge setting date, testimony to include ex-president, senator
web posted February 22, 2008
LOS ANGELES, CA. -- While Hillary Clinton battles Barack Obama on the campaign trail, a judge in Los Angeles is quietly preparing to set a trial date in a $17 million fraud suit that aims to expose an alleged culture of widespread corruption by the Clintons and the Democratic Party.
WorldNetDaily

Going, going, gone – skies clear for lunar eclipse (Photos)
web posted February 21, 2008
COUNTY – The skies stayed clear enough Wednesday night that most Edgefield County residents were able to view the lunar eclipse that began just after 8 pm and lasted until just after 11 pm. Below is a photo essay of the eclipse.
EdgefieldDaily.com

SCDOT proposal has county leaders concerned
web posted February 21, 2008
COUNTY – A proposal by the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) to begin turning some state roads over to the county for upkeep was mentioned during the Town Hall meeting held by Sen. Shane Massey Monday night. Edgefield County Councilman Everett Kitchens brought the subject up and said Edgefield County could not afford to maintain the additional roads. Sen. Massey said no bill has been introduced and that the proposal is just being discussed at this time. The proposal has garnered the interest of county leaders because South Carolina has the fourth largest state road system in the nation.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Trenton man arrested under woman's home with knife, panties, and lighter
web posted February 21, 2008
TRENTON – Sheriff’s Deputies arrested a Trenton man early Wednesday morning after finding him underneath a woman’s home on the 1800 block of Edgefield Road. A deputy was forced to deploy the use of his Taser after the man repeatedly reached into his pocket in an apparent attempt to retrieve a knife during the arrest. James Trimble Jr., 38, of Trenton was taken into custody just before 2 am at the home.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Governor Sanford Issues Statement on Senate Passage of DUI Bill, praises Sen. Massey
web posted February 21, 2008
COLUMBIA – Governor Mark Sanford was pleased the Senate passed the new DUI Bill, which increases penalties for repeat offenders, on Wednesday but he was not pleased with the final bill. "While I would thank many in the Senate for getting rid of one roadblock for law enforcement in terms of the roadside warnings, we're disappointed that they did not go as far as the House in terms of toughening penalties for first offenders and for refusal to take breath tests," Gov. Sanford said.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Gloverville woman fifth fatality on Aiken County roads this year
web posted February 21, 2008
AIKEN – A 21-year-old Gloverville woman has become the fifth fatality on Aiken County Roads this year. Brandy Cox died on Wednesday at MCG from injuries she received in a crash on Valentine's Day, Aiken County Coroner Tim Carlton said. Ms. Cox was pulled from her burning car by unknown motorists after the crash.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Limestone College Registering at Local Site in Aiken
web posted February 21, 2008
GAFFNEY – (PSA) Limestone College is registering for Extended Campus Classroom Classes at the Aiken/North Augusta Classroom Center at 2444 Jefferson Davis Highway, Aiken.  Courses being offered are SW304 (Social Work Intervention Large Groups) and EC203 (Microeconomics) starting Tuesday, March 4 at 6 p.m.  Call 888-417-9569 or e-mail rtaylor@limestone.edu to register for classes or request an information package.

Off The Wall: Top psychiatrist concludes liberals "clinically nuts"
web posted February 21, 2008
WASHINGTON – Just when liberals thought it was safe to start identifying themselves as such, an acclaimed, veteran psychiatrist is making the case that the ideology motivating them is actually a mental disorder.
Off The Wall

April Birthday, Anniversary wishes now accepted
web posted February 20, 2008
WEBNEWS – EdgefieldDaily.com is now accepting Birthday and Anniversary wishes for those who will be celebrating a special occasion during the month of April. Beginning in April EdgefieldDaily.com will be naming a birthday or anniversary winner to receive a free cake each month. Look for details coming in March.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Hardy Place Road residents voice opposition to All God’s Creatures shelter
web posted February 20, 2008
EDGEFIELD – With great fanfare All God’s Creatures brought world-renowned Jack Hanna to Edgefield for a fundraiser for a new animal shelter on Hardy Place Road in Johnston. While many locals were enamored with the down-to-earth star and paid the $150 a ticket to attend the event to support the building of the shelter, somebody evidently forgot to check with the neighbors. Michael John Key, who lives near the prospective location, told the Edgefield County Planning Commission Tuesday night he is adamantly opposed to the new shelter.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Comprehensive Plan, Land Use top items for Planning Commission
web posted February 20, 2008
COUNTY – The Edgefield County Planning Commission is in the first phase of revisiting the county’s Comprehensive Plan and will be holding meetings to get public input on the direction the county will be taking over the next ten years. After welcoming the newest member to the commission, Wayne Miller of the Westside area, Chairman Fab Burt gave the floor to Rick Green with the Upper Savannah Council on Governments. Mr. Green said he would be assisting with the process by presenting information to the commission over the next few months. The last time the plan was reviewed was April of 2004. “So you’re a little early on your review,” Mr. Green said.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Edgefield Town Square Advisory Committee to meet Thursday
web posted February 20, 2008
EDGEFIELD – The Advisory Committee for the re-landscaping of the Edgefield Town Square will be meeting Thursday, 10 am, at the Town Council Chambers in the rear of the Town Hall. Mrs. Suzanne Holmes with Clemson Extension Office will be present and the public is invited to attend and offer input.

Kindergarten and First Grade registrations to be held March 7
web posted February 20, 2008
COUNTY – The Edgefield County School District is holding registration for Kindergarten and First Grade on March 7, 2008. Other programs that will also be registering are the Program for Preschool Children with Disabilities (3-5 years) and Child Development (4 years old by Sept. 1, 2008). Registration will be held from 8:30 am until noon.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Notice: Public Notice of Homestead Exemption
web posted February 20, 2008
COUNTY – Please be advised that the sign-up for Homestead Exemption is not open and will continue through December 31, 2008. The Exemption is granted to persons who are last least 65 years of age as of December 31, 2007, blind or 100 percent totally and permanently disabled as of December 31, 2007, and exempts them from paying property taxes on the first $50,000 of the appraised value of their home, if living in the home. Persons who are eligible must file with the County Auditor’s Office. Should you have and questions concerning Homestead Exemption, please contact the County Auditor’s Office at 803-637-4034 or 803-637-4045. Bill Gilchrist, Edgefield County Auditor.

Gov. Sanford Signs Small Business Healthcare Bill
web posted February 20, 2008
COLUMBIA – Gov. Mark Sanford signed S.588, the Small Business Healthcare Bill on Tuesday. The new law is a reform the governor called for in his State of the State address as part of his "First 30 Days Agenda" which is aimed at making it easier for small businesses to offer health insurance to their employees.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Letter to the Editor: Gov. says Flat Tax One Key to Competitiveness
web posted February 20, 2008
We have an opportunity to make our state more competitive by moving to an optional 3.4 percent flat tax; the question is “Will we?” We should in part because the writer Thomas Friedman makes the argument that the most important competition today is between “you and your imagination.”
EdgefieldDaily.com

Sen. Massey connects with citizens at town hall meeting (Photos)
web posted February 19, 2008
MERRIWETHER – State Senator Shane Massey held one of his Town Hall meetings Monday night at the Merriwether Middle School. The meeting is one of over eighteen he has planned across the 25th Senate District through the end of March. Sen. Massey said the purpose to the meetings is to explain what is currently going on in the state legislature and to get feedback from citizens. “One of the things that’s most important to me is being assessable,” Sen. Massey said adding that he cannot properly represent constituents if he is not communicating with them.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Johnston man flown from crash scene (Photos)
web posted February 19, 2008
JOHNSTON – A Johnston man was seriously injured in a crash just after 3 pm Monday and had to be flown from the crash site by a MCG helicopter. The crash occurred when the man was driving westbound on Waterworks Road in a late model Cadillac when he left the right hand side of the road after exiting a curve and struck the side of the bridge.
EdgefieldDaily.com

We secure our future by protecting people
Guest Column By S.C. Senator Shane Massey
web posted February 19, 2008
EDGEFIELD – The S.C. Senate is taking significant steps on three issues that directly impact us, our society, and our state’s future: illegal immigration, payday lending, and DUI reform. I’m sure you’re asking yourself how these issues can impact you.  Without the changes we need to make in these areas, your pocketbook and your well-being are in real jeopardy.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Johnston teen arrested on criminal sexual conduct charge
web posted February 19, 2008
JOHNSTON – A Johnston teen is behind bars after an investigation that launched late last week resulted in a criminal sexual assault charge for a 15-year old male. According to police reports, the alleged victim is a 12-year-old male and has been abused by the older teen since at least last April when he was 11. The arrested teen’s name is not being released due to his age.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Merriwether restaurant burglarized Saturday
web posted February 19, 2008
MERRIWETHER – Vinney’s Pizzeria, on the 1300 block of Martintown Road was the scene of a burglary early Saturday morning that left more damage done than the person or persons got away with. Edgefield County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to an alarm at the business just after 5 am and arrived to find an open door on the eastside of the building and been pried open.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Dixie Youth Baseball extends sign-ups by one week, registration forms available online
web posted February 19, 2008
COUNTY – Dixie Youth Baseball has extended the dates for sign-ups by one week. The final registration will be Saturday, February 23, 2008 from 10 am to 12 noon. All youths between ages 4 and 14 are asked to register in order to participate. The locations to signup are Bettis Park, Edgefield Baseball Complex and the Johnston National Guard Armory. Sign up forms are provided for download in the reposted report.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Sen. Massey to hold Town Hall Meeting in Merriwether tonight
web posted February 18, 2008
MERRIWETHER – SC State Senator Shane Massey will be holding a Town Hall Meeting at the Merriwether Middle School Tonight, Monday, February 18, from 6-8 pm. The public is invited to attend. Sen. Massey said the meeting is one of for or five he has planned across the county and others across District 25.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Business Directory and other information keeps EdgefieldDaily.com ranking atop local print media outlets
web posted February 18, 2008
WEBNEWS – The EdgefieldDaily.com Business Directory continues to grow as does our unmatched coverage of local news and information available to our readers with recent stats showing us on track for 1.2 million hits for the month of February. The Country Cooking Section has grown to almost 600 local recipes and with the easy to find “Info Now” button residents can find phone numbers to any local church or agency.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Graniteville man becomes 4th fatality in Aiken County
web posted February 18, 2008
BELVEDERE – A Graniteville man became the fourth fatality in Aiken County in a single car crash on Ascauga Lake Road shortly after 11 pm Saturday night. Michael Marchant of Graniteville was pronounced dead on the scene by Aiken County Coroner Tim Carlton.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Body discovered in Beech Island now investigated as murder
web posted February 18, 2008
AIKEN – According to Aiken County Sheriff’s Office Lt. Michael Frank, the Aiken County Sheriff's Office is investigating the death of a man found early Saturday morning outside a Beech Island nightclub as a possible murder. Henry D. Freeman, 56, of Beech Island was found by a man walking in the area just before 6 am Saturday. Freeman was lying face down outside the Hilltop Club at 214 Cary Drive.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Local neurosurgeon’s invention earns international award
web posted February 18, 2008
GREENWOOD – A neurosurgeon at Self Regional Healthcare has captured a top award in an international technology invention contest for his work on an improved brain mapping technique that allows surgeons to more accurately keep track of their location during an operation.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Class of 1988 plans 20th Class Reunion
web posted February 18, 2008
PSA - COUNTY – The Strom Thurmond High School Class of 1988 is planning its 20th Class Reunion for September 26 & 27. The next organizational meeting will be held at the Pizza Hut in Edgefield on March 15, 2008, at 6 p.m. All interested classmates are encouraged to attend. For further information, please contact Calvin Smith at 803-645-4612 or email customlawn@bellsouth.net.

Rebels season ends with play-off loss to Crestwood, Lady Rebs end with loss to Lake Marion
web posted February 18, 2008
JOHNSTON – Strom Thurmond advanced to the second round of the Class AAA Lower State basketball playoffs with a 78-41 demolition of the Bluffton High Bobcats on Tuesday, however; their season would end with a 62-36 loss at the hands of the top-ranked Crestwood Knights on Friday.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Twelve Sure-Fire Ways to Wreck Our Faith
By: Dr. Skip Myers
Part 4 of 5
web posted February 18, 2008
COLUMNIST – We are examining some tried and true methods for wrecking our faith. We’re applying the term “wreck” to our faith with the same varying degree of destruction we would to any other aspect of life. No matter whether it is a minor fender-bender or something much worse, any wreck causes unneeded pain and stress. When applied to our relationship with the Lord we encounter the same variations with the same outcome - pain, stress, and messes we simply don’t need. The best way to avoid these wrecks is to guard against these twelve things from becoming a part of our way of life. And the best way to do this is to make sure that our faith is growing and getting the attention it needs.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Aiken man found dead behind club 
web posted February 16, 2008
AIKEN – The Aiken County Sheriff’s Office and Coroner Tim Carlton are investigating a “suspicious” death in Aiken early Saturday morning. The body of a black male was found behind the Hilltop Club in Beech Island around 6am. 56-year-old Henry Freeman was pronounced dead on the scene.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Refinancing of 1998 Bonds Saves Over One Million Dollars
web posted February 16, 2008
JOHNSTON – The School District of Edgefield County is pleased to announce that it has successfully refinanced the general obligation bonds issued by the School District in 1998.  The refinancing will result in interest cost savings in excess of one million dollars.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Cedar Grove Baptist Church to hold Auction Feb. 23
web posted February 16, 2008
EDGEFIELD – The Cedar Grove Baptist Church Family strongly solicits your support in our efforts to build a new Sanctuary. We will be hosting an Auction on February 23, 2008 at 110 Morgan-Bussey Rd. Edgefield beginning at 8:00am. Professional auctioneers from Murrell’s Auction Company of Trenton, SC will be conducting the auction at no cost. Please help us in this endeavor. You may contact DeQuawn Smith at (803) 480-3297 or email cedargrovebaptist@unionthirddivision.org for directions.

Town Square one step closer to final plan on landscaping (Photos)
web posted February 15, 2008
EDGEFIELD – The Town of Edgefield is one step closer to a plan to re-landscape the town square with the Advisory Committee opening the proposals and bids on Wednesday. With prices ranging between $23,000 to almost $35,000 Mayor Ken Durham said he had to do a little work to get an “apples to apples” comparison.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Governor's Statement on Passage of $250 million, 5-Year Commitment
web posted February 15, 2008
COLUMBIA – Governor Mark Sanford has expressed his concern over the House's passage of two bills that would mean an open-ended, $250 million five-year commitment for the taxpayers of South Carolina.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Lt. Governor’s Essay Winners Announced
web posted February 15, 2008
JOHNSTON – The Edgefield County School District is proud to announce the 2007-2008 Lt. Governor’s Essay Winners. The county 5th grade winner is Mortrez Coleman of Douglas Elementary. The county 8th grade winner is Brandi Jackson of Johnston-Edgefield-Trenton Middle School.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Dixie Youth Baseball final sign-up to be held Saturday, registration forms available online
web posted February 15, 2008
COUNTY – Dixie Youth Baseball is getting ready to start the 2008 season and is offering several sign up locations. All youths between ages 4 and 14 are asked to register in order to participate. Sign up forms are now provided for download.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Honor Rolls for all Edgefield County School District Schools
web posted February 15, 2008
COUNTY – The Edgefield School District has released the Honor Rolls for the second nine weeks for Edgefield County Schools. EdgefieldDaily.com congratulates the students for their achievements.
EdgefieldDaily.com

HOSA Club is sponsoring an “Autism Speaks” walk
web posted February 15, 2008
JOHNSTON – The Strom Thurmond High School HOSA Club is sponsoring an “Autism Speaks” walk on Thursday, February 21st @3:30PM behind the Career Center 17 Par Dr. Johnston. 1 out of every 150 children born in the United States today will be diagnosed with autism. For more information on the walk, or to make a donation, contact the STHS HOSA representative@ (803)275-1767. Autism Speaks – It’s time to listen.

Brighthop Recognized For Volunteer Service
web posted February 15, 2008
JOHNSTON – Nikia LaPaige Brighthop, a senior at Strom Thurmond High School, has been honored for her exemplary volunteer service with a President’s Volunteer Service Award. The award, which recognizes Americans of all ages who have volunteered significant amounts of their time to serve their communities and their country, was presented by The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program on behalf of the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Hospice Care of South Carolina offering a two-part volunteer training program
web posted February 15, 2008
EDGEFIELD – Hospice Care of South Carolina is offering a two-part volunteer training program on Feb. 16 and 23 at the Edgefield office located at 510 Augusta Rd, Suite B.  The sessions will be from 10am -4pm and lunch will be provided.  Individuals or groups interested may contact the Volunteer Coordinator – Kealya Terry at 803-522-1104 or the Edgefield office at 637-1901.

Edgefield County Adult Education offering Basic Microsoft Excel class
web posted February 15, 2008
EDGEFIELD – Edgefield County Adult Education will be offering a Basic Microsoft Excel class beginning on February 19th at 5:00 P.M. Call 275-1788, ext. 23 to register. Cost: $30.00

Off The Wall: N.C. hospitals bill rape victims for evidence
web posted February 15, 2008
Rape victims across the state are paying for their ill fortune in the most tangible of ways: a bill for the evidence kit needed to lock up the rapist.
Off The Wall

World renowned Jack Hanna attends benefit for All God's Creatures in Edgefield (Photos)
web posted February 14, 2008
EDGEFIELD – Jack Hanna, world renowned animal expert and star of Jack Hanna’s Animal Adventures, was in Edgefield Wednesday evening for a benefit to help All God’s Creatures pet rescue raise money to build a shelter for Edgefield County. Mr. Hanna said he could not believe there was not a shelter in the county, “and that’s why I’m here.”
EdgefieldDaily.com

Two wrecks yards apart cause traffic problems for Johnston Police (Photos)
web posted February 14, 2008
JOHNSTON – A Johnston man was injured in a collision with a tractor-trailer truck on Lee Street Wednesday afternoon just after 2 pm. According to the witnesses and the driver of the truck, the Johnston man was entering Lee Street making a right turn when he crossed into the northbound lane of Lee Street and drove under the trailer of the truck. The trailer, carrying a 24-ton load, rolled over the front of the car sending it backwards into the intersection.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Governor Sanford Calls for Income Tax Rate Cut of 50 Percent on backs of smokers
web posted February 14, 2008
COLUMBIA – Governor Mark Sanford joined with legislators in Columbia on Wednesday and visited small businesses in Charleston and Myrtle Beach to call for an optional 50 percent reduction to the state's top marginal income tax rate - from the current 7 percent to 3.4 percent - to be offset by a 30-cents-per-pack increase to the state's cigarette tax.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Strom Thurmond High School Sponsors Black History Celebration Program
web posted February 14, 2008
JOHNSTON – Strom Thurmond High School is sponsoring a Black History Celebration on February 24th, 2008. The event will be held in the Strom Thurmond High School Gymnasium from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. The theme of Celebrating Jazz, Gospel and Rhetoric will feature the South Carolina State University Jazz Band, STHS Gospel Choir and other special guests. The program is free. Any donations received will go to help support the SCSU Jazz Band.

Pastor says cashless society would fulfill Biblical prophecy
web posted February 14, 2008
The concept of a cashless society where all financial transactions and purchases are strictly controlled and every nuance of a person's life is noted and recorded, in many cases by implanted chips, sounds like the perfect ingredients for a science-fiction thriller. Yet the Rev. Glenn Guest envisions this apocalyptic scenario following the Bible's Book of Revelation that begins with the gradual disappearance of cash and checks and the increased reliance on debit and credit cards. And he sees it coming closer every day.
OnlineAthens.com

Gov. Sanford continues push for tougher DUI laws
web posted February 13, 2008
COLUMBIA – Governor Mark Sanford said Tuesday that he is disappointed in the Senate Committee’s refusal to strip amendments the Governor feels is “harmful” from DUI bill. "We knew going in that some on this Senate subcommittee wanted a weaker DUI, but we were hopeful that a majority of the full Judiciary Committee was as serious as the House was about creating a tougher law - and unfortunately, that didn't appear to be the case today," Gov. Sanford said.
EdgefieldDaily.com

STHS Robotics Team Competes
web posted February 13, 2008
JOHNSTON – The Strom Thurmond High School Robotics Team competed in the second annual FIRST Tech Robotics Challenge which was held at South Carolina State University on February 8, 2008. 
EdgefieldDaily.com

Edgefield County Middle School Students Shine at Mathcounts Competition
web posted February 13, 2008
JOHNSTON – Edgefield County Middle School MathCounts teams represented Edgefield County well on Saturday, February 9 at the Regional MathCounts Competition at Aiken Technical College.  After a number of rounds of competing, Merriwether Middle School’s team came in second overall with five of their students making the countdown round.  J.E.T. Middle school’s team came in fifth overall with T.J Parkman coming in 3rd in the countdown round and 1st overall in the individual scoring
EdgefieldDaily.com

Annual Career Fair Held for County 8th Graders
web posted February 13, 2008
JOHNSTON – Edgefield County School District 8th graders from Merriwether Middle and Jet Middle School attended the annual Career Fair on February 6. The event was held at JET Middle School.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Is teenage sex a sex crime?  Readers voice concerns
A Column by the Editor
web posted February 13, 2008
COLUMN – I am being inundated with phone calls and emails about the two Strom Thurmond students caught having sex at school. Two teens having sex is not news, two teens having sex at school, okay that is a bit of a problem.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Off The Wall: Retired Teacher Reveals He Was Illiterate Until Age 48
OCEANSIDE, Calif. -- John Corcoran graduated from college and taught high school for 17 years without being able to read, write or spell.
Off The Wall

Ridge Spring Middle School student confirmed with case of meningitis
web posted February 12, 2008
RIDGE SPRING – School Officials at the Ridge Spring Middle School have confirmed that a student at the school has been diagnosed with a case of bacterial meningitis. The confirmation came from a release by the Aiken County DHEC. School officials are notifying students that could have come in contact with the student in homeroom or classes.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Manufacturing company “interested” in Johnston location
web posted February 12, 2008
JOHNSTON – Johnston may be seeing a boost to its local economy in the near future. Though town officials remain somewhat silent on the matter, two votes on Monday night seemed to point in the direction that a manufacturing company is seeking to locate in Johnston. Two ordinances receiving first readings at the town council meeting were to increase the allowed square footage of signage and a second to rezone a property to allow manufacturing.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Sen. Massey to hold Town Hall Meetings across county, district
web posted February 12, 2008
MERRIWETHER – SC State Senator Shane Massey will be holding a Town Hall Meeting at the Merriwether Middle School on Monday, February 18, from 6-8 pm. The public is invited to attend. Sen. Massey said the meeting is one of for or five he has planned across the county and others across District 25.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Johnston receives "big check" presentation from Palmetto Pride (Photos)
web posted February 12, 2008
JOHNSTON – Johnston Mayor Willie Campbell accepted a “big check” from Rich Cothran of the Palmetto Pride anti-litter organization Monday night. The grant was used for purchasing twenty-one trashcans that have been placed around the town. Palmetto Pride also supplied the liners and trash bags.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Johnston Fire Department placed on alert for possible plane crash
web posted February 12, 2008
JOHNSTON – A plane flying over the Johnston area was reported as possibly crashing just before 4 pm Monday. Sheriff’s Deputies in the area reported that a plane was seen losing altitude and then disappearing behind a tree line. Another phone call revealed that the plane had “clipped some trees” near Hardy Place Road just before the report.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Johnston Town Council debates assorted issues Monday night
web posted February 12, 2008
JOHNSTON – The Johnston Town Council held their February meeting Monday night addressing several issues facing the town. Planned remodeling of the bathrooms at the Jaycee Park drew extended discussion when the low bid for the project came in at over $17,000. “I think that’s sounds like too much money personally,” Councilman Morris Holmes said, “I think we could tear the thing down and build a new one cheaper than that.”
EdgefieldDaily.com

Saluda Deputy cleared of wrongdoing, fired over "policy" violations
web posted February 12, 2008
SALUDA – A Saluda County Deputy Sheriff has been cleared of criminal charges in a recent investigation, but has been terminated due to a violation of county and Sheriff’s Office policies. According to Saluda County Sheriff Jason Booth, Cpl. Marty Fulmer has been cleared by the Greenwood County Sheriff’s office and SLED of any criminal wrong doing in the recent investigation of his purchase of large amounts of a non prescription medication Sudafed/Ephedrine at a Ninety Six convenience store last week. Fulmer was off-duty, but was driving his patrol car at the time of the purchase.
Saluda Standard Sentinal

Career Center Future Business Leaders Shine at District Competition
web posted February 12, 2008
JOHNSTON – Thirteen Strom Thurmond Career Center Future Business Leaders of American students traveled to Spartanburg on Saturday, February 2nd for District I FBLA competition. They competed against seven schools in various business events.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Johnston welcomes new officer
web posted February 12, 2008
JOHNSTON – Johnston Police Chief Chris Aston introduced the newest member of the Johnston Police Department Monday night. Officer Doug Kimball just recently joined to force and has already begun patrolling the town. The Johnston Town Council and Mayor Willie Campbell welcomed Officer Kimball to the town.

Second Quarter Perfect Attendance Bus Drivers recognized
web posted February 12, 2008
JOHNSTON – The Edgefield County School District congratulated several bus drivers for the second quarter perfect attendance incentive awards. Tanja Bryan, Supervisor of Transportation presented each perfect attendance driver with a certificate and award during a recognition program held at the School Bus Office Complex.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Massey stays firm on DUI bill
web posted February 11, 2008
EDGEFIELD – SC State Senator Shane Massey (R-Edgefield) said Sunday that the modifications of current DUI legislation that is being considered in the South Carolina Legislature may face some scale backs, however, overall the bill increases suspensions and penalties for repeat and first offenders. “The House passed an automatic suspension of your license for one year if you refuse to blow (for a blood alcohol content test - BAC) and it has been reduced to nine months (by current amendments).” The current suspension is set at six months.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Students Against Destructive Decisions to host 2nd annual SMASHED event tonight
web posted February 11, 2008
JOHNSTON – The STHS Chapter of Students Against Destructive Decisions
is holding its 2nd annual SMASHED documentary night on Monday, Feb. 11, at 6:30 pm in the STHS cafeteria. NOTICE: This documentary is not suitable for elementary age children.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Twelve Sure-Fire Ways to Wreck Your Faith
By: Dr. Skip Myers
Edgefielddaily.com columnist
Part 3 of 5
web posted February 11, 2008
JOHNSTON – “This message will self-destruct in ten seconds.” Who could forget this line from the old Mission Impossible show? Each week as Jim Phelps received his team’s assignment this closing phrase let him know that the tape recorder was fixing to have an acid meltdown. We are in the midst of a series that deals with 12 character traits and attitudes that have the potential to bring our faith to a point of meltdown if we allow them to continue as part of our relationship with the Lord. Just to review let’s look at what we have dealt with so far: 1)  Deception  2)  Distress  3)  Doubt       4)  Distraction.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Letters to the Editor:
Writer claims electoral college should be abolished

Writer takes mud boggers defense to task
web posted February 11, 2008
EdgefieldDaily.com

Sports:
Rebels and Lady Rebs end season in second place in lead up to playoffs

Lady Pats go 22-0 for season
web posted February 11, 2008
EdgefieldDaily.com Sports

EdgefieldDaily.com celebrates third anniversary of founding
web posted February 9, 2008
WEBNEWS – February 8, 2008 marked the third anniversary of the founding of EdgefieldDaily.com. In the past three years EdgefieldDaily.com has grown to reach almost 20,000 unique visitors each month and has become the undisputable leader for daily and weekly local news for Edgefield County. With almost 4,000 visits a day, accounting for over 334,000 hits this week, EdgefieldDaily.com is continuing to set new records each quarter and is nearing 1.5 million hits a month.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Estate Auction; Saturday, February 9, 2008, 9:30 am
web posted February 9, 2008
ADVERTISEMENT
EDGEFIELD – We are selling the personal property estate of the late Robert L. Herring of Edgefield, S. C.  The sale will be held at 237 Pickens Street, Edgefield, S. C. and will consist of numerous pieces of furniture, tools, glassware, kitchen equipment, appliances, yard tractors, and automobiles.  The sale will begin at 9:30 AM with viewing from 8:00 AM til sale time.  Please visit our  website:  www.murrellsauctioncompany.com  for detailed information, terms, and pictures. 803-637-5640 or 803-480-0801;  Jerry O. Murrell, SCAL 2747.

Gas leak leads to evacuation of several Aiken Avenue homes Thursday (Photos)
web posted February 8, 2008
JOHNSTON – Several residents on Aiken Avenue in Johnston got a scare for a while Thursday afternoon when someone backed into a gas meter on a house and broke the gas line creating a gas leak that caused the evacuation of several homes and brought the Johnston Fire Department and Police to the scene.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Deputies arrest three teens after assault rifle discovered in wooded area, two escape (Photos)
web posted February 8, 2008
MERRIWETHER – Shortly after 6 pm a Moore Road resident called the Sheriff’s Office to report gunshots being fired on posted property on Big Branch Lane. When the man arrived on the scene he found five young adults exiting the woods and informed them they were trespassing and that deputies were on the way. Two of the young men became nervous when the man asked if the gun they were shooting was stolen. According to him one answered, “probably”, and then two of them took off running.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Edgefield Downtown Choc-around a success (Photos)
web posted February 8, 2008
EDGEFIELD – The Edgefield Downtown Choc-around was held Thursday afternoon with fifteen Edgefield businesses participating in the event that ran from 4 until 8 pm. “Passports” listing all of the participating businesses were made available. Once shoppers visiting the businesses had at least eight of the businesses punched out they could enter the passport to be eligible for an “Over The Top” basket filled with gifts from the participating businesses.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Second man found guilty in Grandpa Road incident
web posted February 8, 2008
EDGEFIELD – The fourth of five ticketed for placing a foreign substance on a roadway left a second man found guilty after failing to appear in court on Thursday. Duane L. Cox, 39, of North Augusta, was found guilty after court proceedings continued and Deputy Trotter presented his evidence in the case including photographs of Mr. Cox’s truck covered top to bottom in mud and clay entering Highway 23.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Gov. Sanford Praises Passage of Small Business Healthcare Bill
web posted February 8, 2008
COLUMBIA – Gov. Mark Sanford praised the final passage of S.588 Thursday -- a reform the governor called for in his State of the State address as part of his "First 30 Days Agenda" -- aimed at making it easier for small businesses to offer health insurance to their employees.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Estate Auction; Saturday, February 9, 2008, 9:30 am
web posted February 8, 2008
ADVERTISEMENT
EDGEFIELD – We are selling the personal property estate of the late Robert L. Herring of Edgefield, S. C.  The sale will be held at 237 Pickens Street, Edgefield, S. C. and will consist of numerous pieces of furniture, tools, glassware, kitchen equipment, appliances, yard tractors, and automobiles.  The sale will begin at 9:30 AM with viewing from 8:00 AM til sale time.  Please visit our  website:  www.murrellsauctioncompany.com  for detailed information, terms, and pictures. 803-637-5640 or 803-480-0801;  Jerry O. Murrell, SCAL 2747.

Lost Dog
web posted February 8, 2008
Lost. Male Beagle approx. 8 months old. On 01/26/08 between Sweetwater Road and Horne's Creek West. No collar.  Child's pet. Very friendly. Answers to name T-Bone.  If found, please call Jimmy Locklair at 637-6749 or Chris Locklair at 637-9640.  Reward Offered.

NOTICE: Computer “glitch” erases hundreds of emails
web posted February 7, 2008
WEBNEWS – Due to a computer glitch hundreds of emails were lost Wednesday. An attempt to restore them was only partially successful. If you sent an email to the Editor and did not see your posting in the Wandering Minds, classified, birthday wish, or other requests honored in Thursday’s updates, please resend the information. We apologize for any inconvenience. There were no security breaches to our server; it was a problem isolated to the main computer system.

Man found hanged at Edgefield County Detention Center
web posted February 7, 2008
EDGEFIELD – A detainee at the Edgefield County Detention Center was found hung in a holding cell shortly after being arrested around 3:30 Wednesday morning. When Deputies and jailers reached the man he was unconscious and was not breathing. Deputies cut the man free and began trying to resuscitate him as EMS was summoned to the jail.
EdgefieldDaily.com

First trials of Mud Boggers held Wednesday
web posted February 7, 2008
EDGEFIELD – Four of the five men charged after being caught on Grandpa Road earlier this month were to be in Magistrate Court Wednesday. The fifth driver’s court date is set for today. Of the four only three showed up for court and one, Tony Taylor requested a jury trial and was excused. Questions were raised concerning Donald Jason Rodgers, 31, of Saluda, for not showing up for court.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Nuisance ordinance to be used to charge future mud boggers
web posted February 7, 2008
EDGEFIELD – After the first trial of those cited after mud bogging on Grandpa Road Wednesday, Judge Carpenter told Guy Mueller of the Building and Planning Department that the charge of malicious injury to personal or public property is not the best way to handle those caught destroying county roads.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Four STH Rebels sign to play college ball
web posted February 7, 2008
JOHNSTON – Four student athletes signed scholarships to play college football in the Strom Thurmond High School Media Center Wednesday to officially put a wrap on the Rebels' 2007 campaign. A large group of family, friends, print and broadcast media were there to witness the event. The Rebels finished last season with a record of 8-5 losing in the third round of the Class AAA playoffs. The school will drop down to the AA classification this year.
EdgefieldDaily.com

STH JV and Varsity Soccer teams Pumping Gas as fundraiser
web posted February 7, 2008
COUNTY – “Ding Ding” is a sound most anyone under the age of forty might have a difficult time associating with filling a car up with gas. But years ago that jingle brought someone to your car window asking “Fill it up?”
EdgefieldDaily.com

Letter to the Editor
Writer defends mud boggers
web posted February 7, 2008
Dear Editor,
Do the Edgefield County Police Officers have anything other to do than to hunt down "mudders?" I know for a fact that Edgefield County has "real" crimes and criminals that need to be convicted, yet we are tracking down people playing in the mud.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Education Summit Saturday
web posted February 7, 2008
JOHNSTON – The Second Annual Education Summit is this Saturday, February 9th, from 8:30 – 12:30 at Johnston-Edgefield-Trenton Middle School. The event will open with a reception for Dr. Mary R. Crenshaw, Edgefield County Superintendent. Dr. Crenshaw began her duties as Superintendent of the system in November. Parents and citizens are cordially invited to come to welcome Dr. Crenshaw to the district. The reception will be held prior to the summit.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Master Wildlifer II Program begins February 19
web posted February 7, 2008
PSA - EDGEFIELD – Clemson University is still accepting applications for the Master Wildlifer II Program. Late registration is $125 per person. Class begins February 19 at 6:30pm and will be held at the Clemson Extension – Edgefield Office. You do not have to have taken the first course to take this one. For more information please contact Stephen Pohlman at the Extension Office, (803) 637-3161 ext #117 or by email at spohlma@clemson.edu.

Super Tuesday Primary Results
web posted February 6, 2008
Democrat
Clinton: AR, AZ, CA, MA, NY, NJ, OK, TN
Obama: AK, AL, CT, CO, DE, GA, ID, IL, KS, MN, MO, ND, UT

Republican
Huckabee: AL, AR, GA, TN, WV
McCain: AZ, CA, CT, DE, IL, MO, NJ, NY, OK
Romney: CO, MA, MN, MT, ND, UT

Accused kidnapper may face additional charge after threats (Photo)
web posted February 6, 2008
MERRIWETHER – Accused kidnapper Pleaze Ravon Smith, 40, who was taken into custody Monday after an early morning attack on a Trenton woman and her family, may be facing an additional charge after he called the woman’s employer prior to his arrest and made what police consider serious threats.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Chairman Kneece: “Let’s quit talking and do something,” about mud boggers
web posted February 6, 2008
EDGEFIELD – The issue of mud bogging on county roads was discussed at the Edgefield County Council meeting Tuesday night and County Council Chairman Monroe Kneece said it is time to quit talking about the issue and to do something to put a stop to the activity.
EdgefieldDaily.com

EMA Director Mike Casey gives cautioned update on county’s Northside Transmission Tower
web posted February 6, 2008
EDGEFIELD – EMA Director Mike Casey gave the County Council an update on the northside transmission tower used by county law enforcement, EMS, EMA, and fire departments and said the repairs are only “temporary”. Mr. Casey said the repair made to the tower, which included new cables to “true” the tower (bring it back to straight), had been completed but that the repairs would last only about two years. “This is just a temporary fix”, Casey said adding that at best the county has to replace or build a new tower elsewhere within two years.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Merriwether teen uninjured in two-car crash (Photos)
web posted February 6, 2008
MERRIWETHER – A two-car crash on Currytown Road left a Merriwether teen shaken but uninjured just after 4 pm Tuesday. According to the drivers of the cars involved, the teen was traveling east on Currytown Road in a Pontiac Grand Am when she was struck by a woman in an Infinity G35 pulling out of Currytown Station. The impact spun the Grand Am sideways sending it into the ditch and then up an embankment, stopping just short of a power pole.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Edgefield County Council addresses increased penalties for delinquent taxes, other issues
web posted February 6, 2008
EDGEFIELD – The Edgefield County Council held their regular monthly meeting Tuesday night and addressed several issues including a request by Tax Collector Linda Priest to raise the cost of tax collections on delinquent taxes from $67 to $92. The additional cost is due to rising costs of advertising, postage, the need for a digital camera, and cost of tax sales. The $25 increase was needed due to previous sales leaving the county “in the red” if the properties made it to the point of a tax sale Priest said.
EdgefieldDaily.com

County Council hears final report of Vision 20/20 task forces
web posted February 6, 2008
EDGEFIELD – John Culbertson of the Edgefield County Chamber of Commerce delivered the final report on the Vision 20/20 Report to the Edgefield County Council Tuesday night. Mr. Culbertson said that the group has identified three main objectives for the future of Edgefield County, Economic Development, chaired by Bettis Rainsford, Education, chaired by Dr. Mary Rice-Crenshaw, and Quality of Life chaired by Sandy Backensto.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Would somebody please tell County Councilman Norman Dorn to shut up?
A Column by the Editor
web posted February 6, 2008
COLUMN – If I were a resident of the Northside County Council District I believe, no I know, I would move so that thinking people would not relate me to having the most ignorant, uneducated, and asinine county councilman that ever held a seat on the county council. Granted, Merriwether’s former councilman Danny Bishop always gave Norman Dorn a run for his money for that dubious distinction, but at least Merriwether voted Bishop out only to have Fox Creek Charter High School embrace him. Make what you will of that.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Gov. Sanford: Undo Subcommittee's Amendments to DUI Laws
web posted February 6, 2008
COLUMBIA – Governor Mark Sanford called on the Senate Judiciary Committee and the full Senate to strip amendments added Tuesday to a DUI bill under consideration that would both weaken proposed punishments and create additional  loopholes in DUI arrests.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Hephzibah man charged with kidnapping, assorted charges after attack on Trenton family (Photo)
web posted February 5, 2008
TRENTON – Edgefield Sheriff’s Deputies and investigators were called to the scene of a disturbance on Longleaf Drive in Trenton early Monday morning that has left a Hephzibah, Ga. man charged with kidnapping, burglary, and an assortment of other serious charges. Pleaze Ravon Smith, 40, of Postell Drive, Hephzibah, was taken into custody Monday and is being held at the Edgefield County Detention Center awaiting a bond hearing on the charges.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Warrenville man pronounced dead at Aiken County Detention Center
web posted February 5, 2008
AIKEN – Aiken County Coroner Tim Carlton said an inmate that was pronounced dead at the Aiken County Detention Center Monday morning was found unresponsive in his cell. Donnie R. Abney, 57, of Warrenville had been held at the facility since his arrest on January 27 for a DUI charge. “Mr. Abney died from natural causes,” Coroner Carlton said in a prepared release Monday.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Edgefield man charged in kidnapping of Johnston woman Saturday
web posted February 5, 2008
JOHNSTON – An Edgefield man has been arrested and charged with kidnapping and assault after an early morning attack that allegedly took place on May Street Saturday morning. A woman flagged down a Johnston Police Officer on Patrol and stated that a man was “jumping on a girl” at the May Street Apartments. By the time the officer and the woman arrived on the scene the man and woman was nowhere to be found.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Mud boggers to have first day in court Wednesday (Photo)
web posted February 5, 2008
EDGEFIELD – The two most recent cases of mud bogging in Edgefield County will land the first five charged in court on Wednesday and charges are still pending in the second case in Merriwether on Friday. Duane L. Cox, 39 of North Augusta, Carlos K. Stevens, 31, and Joseph P. Cato, 30, both of Edgefield, and Donald Jason Rodgers, 33, of Saluda were all charged with putting a foreign substance on the roadway by ticket. Mr. Rodgers was arrested for disorderly conduct and transported to the Edgefield County Detention Center after being “extremely hostile” and using “vulgar language” towards the officers, the incident report states.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Edgefield Mayor clarifies desire to landscape town square
web posted February 5, 2008
EDGEFIELD – Edgefield Mayor Ken Durham said that the advertisement for input on the redesign and landscape of the Town Square should have been more specific at Monday night’s monthly meeting of the Town Council. “We probably should have just used the word landscape, redesign has gotten some concerns,” raised. Mayor Durham said that no monuments were involved nor will they be moved in the estimates being sought regarding the square.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Governor Sanford Signs Sumter Consolidation Bill
web posted February 5, 2008
COLUMBIA – Governor Mark Sanford signed S.639, a new law that will consolidate Sumter County's two school districts into one on Monday, a step toward spending more dollars in the classroom and fewer dollars on administration in that county. Since taking office, Governor Sanford has called on the General Assembly to explore the idea of school district consolidation.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Online Business Directory launches today
web posted February 4, 2008
WEBNEWS – EdgefieldDaily.com is pleased to announce the only Online Business Directory available for Edgefield County. Need your car repaired, looking for a local florist, or need a birthday cake? EdgefieldDaily.com Business Directory makes it all available with a click of your mouse. It is also the most inexpensive way to have your business advertised in Edgefield County and have it available to readers 24-hours a day, 7 days a week. 
EdgefieldDaily.com

A Celebration of Black History Month
web posted February 4, 2008
EDGEFIELD – The Region 2 Discovery Center is showcasing an exhibit celebrating Black History Month on February 7th from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. at 405 Main Street. Light refreshments will be served.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Nominations sought for Black History Celebration
web posted February 4, 2008
JOHNSTON – Strom Thurmond High School is planning a Black History Celebration on February 24 from 4 until 6 pm at the school gym. Organizers are seeking black Edgefield County residents that have made contributions to the community over the years. Citizens are asked to nominate those they feel are deserving of being included in the PowerPoint presentation at the celebration.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Estate Auction; Saturday, February 9, 2008, 9:30 am
web posted February 4, 2008
ADVERTISEMENT
EDGEFIELD – We are selling the personal property estate of the late Robert L. Herring of Edgefield, S. C.  The sale will be held at 237 Pickens Street, Edgefield, S. C. and will consist of numerous pieces of furniture, tools, glassware, kitchen equipment, appliances, yard tractors, and automobiles.  The sale will begin at 9:30 AM with viewing from 8:00 AM til sale time.  Please visit our  website:  www.murrellsauctioncompany.com  for detailed information, terms, and pictures. 803-637-5640 or 803-480-0801;  Jerry O. Murrell, SCAL 2747.

Socialism applauded by voters spells the end of our Republic
A Column by the Editor
web posted February 4, 2008
COLUMN – It is a sad day in the annals of American history when people actually swoon over Socialist candidates and their reach for greater control over citizens. Speaking on ABC's "This Week" program this past weekend, Democratic Presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton said she might be willing to have wages garnisheed if people refuse to buy health insurance. "I think universal health care is a core Democratic value and a moral principle, and I'm absolutely gonna do everything I can to achieve that," Clinton said. "I think there are a number of mechanisms" possible, including "going after people's wages, automatic enrollment."
EdgefieldDaily.com

Twelve Sure-Fire Ways to Wreck Your Faith
Part 2 of 5
By: Dr. Skip Myers
web posted February 4, 2008
COLUMNIST – It was a great day for golf. The sun was shining, the birdies were singing, and the breeze refreshed as we rode down the fairways in the cart. (Notice I didn’t say the breeze blew through my hair as we rode. There is a good reason for that.) Suddenly we rounded a turn and stopped dead in our tracks. In order to continue play on this particular hole, we had to cross a small creek, stream, or river. I’m never sure which is which. All I know is that the bridge we had to cross looked like it had been built by the folks right after getting off the Mayflower.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Hey Jesse, Al How about a Little Help?
By Carl Langley
web posted February 4, 2008
GUEST COLUMN – I read about a murder recently which was a little hard for me to take, considering the youth of the slaying victim. But an analysis of this tragedy about a young man who made a shambles out of his life reveals he set the stage for his own death by choosing his associates.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Rebs pick up important wins, Rebles split games
web posted February 4, 2008
JOHNSTON – The Strom Thurmond High boy’s basketball team had and lost a share of first place in Region4-AAA after this week's action. The Rebels began the week with a 75-68 home win Tuesday over the Brookland-Cayce Bearcats who entered the game unbeaten in region play.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Patriots have winning week
web posted February 4, 2008
JOHNSTON -- Both Wardlaw Academy basketball teams found success during this very busy week.
The Lady Patriots downed Aiken Christian 37-24 on Monday before blasting Aiken Prep by a score of 58-8 the next night. Wardlaw improved to 19-0 and 10-0 in SCISA Region 1-A on Friday with a 33-27 home win over Laurens Academy. The varsity boys were 49-40 winners over Aiken Christian, 57-29 victors over Aiken Prep, and edged Laurens Academy 40-38.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Off The Wall: Department of Children and Families spokesman arrested on child pornography charges
web posted February 4, 2008
A Department of Children and Families spokesman was arrested on child pornography charges Friday for allegedly offering at least two teenagers money in exchange for photographing them in sexual acts. Al Zimmerman, 40, was charged with eight felony counts of using a child in a sexual performance, but Tampa police said Saturday more charges could be filed in the next week. He was released from the Hillsborough County Jail this afternoon after posting $120,000 bail.
Off The Wall

Fox Creek student identified as one of three drivers in mud bogging incident (Photos)
web posted February 2, 2008
MERRIWETHER – With rains falling over Wednesday and Thursday mud bogging teens could not resist going out Friday afternoon and destroying Scupin Road. A Sheriff’s Deputy was able to locate one of the teens at his home off Currytown Road a short time later. Several local residents tried to man both ends of the road to stop the teens from fleeing before deputies could arrive.
EdgefieldDaily.com

March of Dimes Awards grant to DHEC Region 1 to Improve Health of Mothers and Babies (Photo)
web posted February 2, 2008
ANDERSON – The March of Dimes South Carolina Chapter has awarded grants to DHEC Region 1, which includes Edgefield County, in the amount of $63,314.00 to support a two-part campaign aimed at underserved maternal and child health needs in Region 1 communities. South Carolina’s Infant Mortality Rate is 46th in the nation with the Department of Health and Environmental Controls (DHEC) Region 1 being tied for the highest rate in the state.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Estate Auction; Saturday, February 9, 2008, 9:30 am
web posted February 2, 2008
ADVERTISEMENT
EDGEFIELD – We are selling the personal property estate of the late Robert L. Herring of Edgefield, S. C.  The sale will be held at 237 Pickens Street, Edgefield, S. C. and will consist of numerous pieces of furniture, tools, glassware, kitchen equipment, appliances, yard tractors, and automobiles.  The sale will begin at 9:30 AM with viewing from 8:00 AM til sale time.  Please visit our  website:  www.murrellsauctioncompany.com  for detailed information, terms, and pictures. 803-637-5640 or 803-480-0801;  Jerry O. Murrell, SCAL 2747.

Johnston Jaycees Peach Blossom Festival Beauty Pageant set for March 8
web reposted February 2, 2008
PSA - JOHNSTON – The Johnston Jaycees Peach Blossom Festival Beauty Pageant is set for March 8, 2008, beginning at 10:00 am for the first age division (ages infant to six years in five age groups) and the second age division (four age groups seven to twenty years). Little Stevens Creek Baptist Church World Changers Mission Team is sponsoring this year’s event. Complete listings of the age categories are below, along with a downloadable entry form. Deadline for entry is February 27, 2008.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Rep. Clyburn: “I’m certainly not running for Senate again”
web posted February 1, 2008
JOHNSTON – Rep. Bill Clyburn (D) said Thursday night at the Edgefield County Intergovernmental Meeting that he would not be running for the District 25 Senate seat this year. “It was a great experience and I just wanted to say to all of you, I’m certainly not running for Senate again, especially against Shane.”
EdgefieldDaily.com

Dignitaries speak at 13th Annual Intergovernmental meeting
web posted February 1, 2008
JOHNSTON – The Edgefield County Intergovernmental Meeting was held Thursday night at the Johnston Sertoma Club with local elected and appointed officials including Sen. Shane Massey and Rep. Bill Clyburn. After enjoying a bar-b-que supper catered by Sportsman’s BBQ County Council Chairman called the meeting to order and began introducing the night’s speakers.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Speed considered a factor in Aiken County fatal crash Thursday
web posted February 1, 2008
AIKEN – A single car crash on Highway 278 near Henley Drive has claimed the life of a 27-year-old Aiken man shortly before 5:30 am Thursday. Aiken County Coroner Tim Carlton said Lamaas Barfield of Dragstrip Road was pronounced dead on the scene after suffering multiple body traumas. According to Coroner Carlton Mr. Barfield was the sole occupant of the Toyota Camry.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Twelve Sure-Fire Ways to Wreck Your Faith
A Series By: Dr. Skip Myers
web posted February 1, 2008
COLUMNIST – It just seems that we are determined in our lives to make a wreck out of something. We multitask while we are driving in an effort to tempt the driving skills of those around us. We talk on the phone, read, eat, and admire our image in the rearview mirror all in an effort to see if we can wreck our car and the cars of those around us. We exclude sound counsel and the Lord from the major decisions of life in hopes that one day we will look back and regret the decisions we made. Credit card purchases, marriage and jobs are just a few of the critical decisions in which we ignore sound counsel and the Lord’s instruction. 
EdgefieldDaily.com

County Soccer registration adds additional sign-up this Saturday
web reposted February 1, 2008
EDGEFIELD – Registration for the County Spring Soccer Program has added another sign-up weekend due to the bad weather of Saturday January 19. Sign-ups will be taken on Saturday, February 2, from 10 am – 1 pm at the Edgefield Soccer Complex. The season begins on March 10. A registration form is available for download.
EdgefieldDaily.com

Found Dog
web posted February 1, 2008
Found very friendly lab dog. Call 803-637-9911 to identify and claim.