.

Verse for the Day: Romans 8:31 "What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?"

Car Chase Leads to Serious Drug Charges
web posted March 31, 2015
JOHNSTON – An early morning car chase has landed a Johnston man behind bars and facing serious drug charges. It all started just after 2 am Saturday when Troy Antonio Dublin, 32, of Holmes Pond Road, decided not to stop for a simple traffic stop. A Johnston Police officer tried to make a traffic stop on Dublin on Dove Street when Dublin turned off his headlights, sped up and began making several quick turns trying to evade the officer.
Edgefield Daily

Woman Creates Havoc for Ex-Roommate over Car
web posted March 31, 2015
MURPHY VILLAGE – A Kennedy Drive man called the Edgefield County Sheriff's Office after his ex-roommate came to his house late Saturday night wanting to get her car and ended up driving through a locked gate and dragging it out into the roadway. The man was trying to keep her from driving the car due to her not having a license or insurance on the car.
Edgefield Daily

General Sessions Court Underway: Reporting of Findings of Cases Begin Wednesday
web posted March 31, 2015
EDGEFIELD – Two weeks of General Sessions Court got underway Monday with several notable cases scheduled to be adjudicated. Edgefield Daily will be covering the resolutions of these cases as they take place beginning on Wednesday's edition and continuing throughout this week and next.
Edgefield Daily

Daily Crime Blotter
web posted March 31, 2015
Edgefield Daily

Thieves Ransack House, Steal Copper Water Lines
web posted March 30, 2015
MERRIWETHER – A man checking on his mother's house on Country Club Hills Drive noticed someone had broken into the house through the garage door and called the Sheriff's Office. The man told the responding deputy that he was taking care of the house since his mother was placed in a nursing home and no one else was allowed in the house. What he found inside "overwhelmed" him.
Edgefield Daily

Summary of FY 2015-2016 County Budget: What's Up and What's Down
web posted March 30, 2015
COUNTY – Below is a summary of the County's $9,496,286 budget for the upcoming Fiscal Year starting on July 1. In addition to the information below, Council decided to add a 1% increase for employees to help cover the costs of the increasing retirement contributions this year. There is an increase over FY 14-15 of $544,027 but there will be no increase in the tax millage rate to cover the increase in expenditures.
Edgefield Daily

Man Robbed While Sleeping
web posted March 30, 2015
COUNTY LINE – A Community Road man woke up Thursday morning to discover someone had been inside of his house. At first the man did not notice anything missing until he began looking for the clothes he wore the day before.
Edgefield Daily

Praise God! "This is Good, This is Very Good!"
A Column by the Editor
web posted March 30, 2015
COLUMN – If you do not believe Jesus is alive and well you are missing out on a lot that God has to offer. If you do not believe that God is in control of things you are missing out on even more. Having been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer just two days before Christmas last year my bride and I changed our prayers and turned all of our troubles over to God and claimed the promises of Jesus like never before. It was far too much for us to handle.
Edgefield Daily

Let the Web Browser Battle Begin - Part 1: The rise and fall of IE and Chromes climb to the top
By George Craig
web posted March 30, 2015
TECH PROFESSOR – Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, Apple Safari, Fire Fox and Opera all have at least one thing in common, you can’t surf the internet without them. A web browser is any program that is used to access the internet. The ones I mentioned above are only a few of the most popular ones that are out there. With a quick search I was able to find able over 100 different web browsers.
Edgefield Daily

Notice: Closings for Good Friday, Easter
web posted March 30, 2015
NOTICE – All Edgefield County Offices will be Closed Friday, April 03, 2015 in observance of Good Friday. All County Convenience Centers will be closed Sunday, April 05, 2015 in observance of Easter.

South Carolina tops Florida State to reach women's Final Four
web posted March 30, 2015
Greensboro, NC – Tiffany Mitchell scored 21 points, including seven straight during a key stretch late that propelled South Carolina to its first NCAA women's Final Four with an 80-74 win over Florida State on Sunday.
SportsNetwork.com

17-Year-Old Charged in Rape of Little Girl
web posted March 28, 2015
EDGEFIELD – A Trenton teen has been charged with criminal sexual conduct with a minor between the ages of 11 to 14 inclusive in the second degree and was then released on a $20,000 personal recognizance bond. Jacob Alvin Cloyd, 17, turned himself in at the Sheriff's Office on Thursday afternoon. An investigation began in mid March once information of the assault that took place in January came to light and was reported by the child's mother.
Edgefield Daily

Johnston Man Wanted for Strong Armed Robbery
web posted March 28, 2015
JOHNSTON – Johnston Police are looking for a 27-year-old Johnston man who is accused of a strong armed robbery of a 19-year-old on Thursday night. The victim said he was pushing a motorcycle to a location in Johnston when he noticed the older man following him. When they reached Partridge Drive the man came up behind the victim and began choking him saying, "give me the money, give me the money". The victim had $3,000 in his pocket that he was going to use to buy rims for his car.
Edgefield Daily

Metal Thieves Steal from Outside and Inside of Trenton Home
web posted March 28, 2015
TRENTON – A man working on an unoccupied home for a company arrived on Thursday to find the HVAC unit missing from the back of the home and called the Edgefield County Sheriff's Office to report the theft. While waiting on a deputy he discovered a window opened that allowed the persons to get inside the home as well.
Edgefield Daily

Sports: Rebels Soccer Team Falls Short in Game Against Ninety-Six
VNN Report
web posted March 28, 2015
SPORTS – The Strom Thurmond boys varsity soccer team came up short for the second game in a row as they lost to Ninety-Six 4-3 on penalties. The Rebels were helped by goals from Cole Fell and Alex Vera as the team put the game into overtime after trailing 2-1 at half time.
Edgefield Daily

Correction
web posted March 28, 2015
EDGEFIELD – In a story published on March 26, 2015, a sentence stated that Cody Wilson Hammond and Cory James Stone, both 26, were also facing charges in Saluda County. That is in error. Their charges of criminal sexual conduct in the first degree are in Edgefield County only. The story has been corrected and we regret the error.

Daily Crime Blotter
web posted March 28, 2015
Edgefield Daily

Man Wanted for Attempted Murder of Johnston Landlord in Custody
web posted March 27, 2015
JOHNSTON – A man wanted in the attempted murder of his mother's landlord stemming from a shooting back in January is now in custody, Johnston Police Chief Lamaz Robinson confirmed on Thursday. "He was over in Georgia and they were able to pick him up," Chief Robinson said. Bernard Montreze Chinn, 21, is currently being held at the Edgefield County Detention Center awaiting a bond hearing.
Edgefield Daily

Shooting Investigation Continues, Most Suspects are Juveniles
web posted March 27, 2015
EDGEFIELD – Edgefield Police are continuing their investigation into the shooting incident at the Gary Street Apartments Monday afternoon and most of those being investigated range in age from 14 to 17 years of age, with the majority being on the lower end of the age scale.
Edgefield Daily

Guns, TVs Targeted in Burglary of Johnston Home
web posted March 27, 2015
JOHNSTON – A Hardy Place Road woman arrived home Wednesday afternoon to find the family home burglarized and the front door, garage door and an inside door to the house in the garage left open. The woman called the Sheriff's Office to report the crime and remained in her car until deputies could arrive.
Edgefield Daily

Life Down South: A Yellow Dust Storm - Here It Comes
By Tom Poland
web posted March 27, 2015
LIFE DOWN SOUTH – Soon our part of the South will look as if a yellow dust storm rages across the land. I say bring it on. One frigid February night, I told a friend I couldn’t wait to see robins, daffodils, and pine pollen. Soon, I’ll get my wish. I look forward to rinsing off my car, deck, and patio.
Edgefield Daily

Sports: Rebels Baseball Continues Picking Up Region Wins
VNN Report
web posted March 27, 2015
SPORTS – The Rebels continue to win in Region play with a win over Cross Creek (GA) 4-3 Wednesday evening. The Rebels are now 10-2 for the season and 4-0 in Region play. Tanner Byrd got the win on the mound.
Edgefield Daily

Sports: Lady Rebels Defeat Ridge Spring Monetta 11-0
Staff Report
web posted March 27, 2015
SPORTS – After dropping back to back region games to Crescent and Saluda, the Lady Rebels returned to their winning ways Thursday night with a little help from a 7th grader. For Coach Pace, who will lose her starting shortstop, first baseman, catcher and center fielder to graduation later this spring, the emergence of several young Rebels has to leave her feeling good about the future.
Edgefield Daily

Strom Thurmond Career & Technology FFA Celebrates National FFA Week
web posted March 27, 2015
JOHNSTON – The FFA students at Strom Thurmond Career & Technology Center recently celebrated National FFA Week. National FFA Week is an opportunity for FFA members, alumni and sponsors to advocate for agricultural education and FFA. It's a time to share with local, state and national audiences what FFA is and the impact it has on members every day. 
Edgefield Daily

Daily Crime Blotter
web posted March 27, 2015
Edgefield Daily

Two Charged in Sexual Assault of Young Teen
web posted March 26, 2015
EDGEFIELD – Two men have been arrested and charged in a criminal sexual conduct case that has been under investigation since January of this year involving the men and a young girl between the ages of 13 to 16. The case remains under investigation and a third man is expected to be brought to Edgefield County to face charges as well. Cody Wilson Hammond (left) and Cory James Stone, both 26, were arrested on Tuesday afternoon and remain behind bars at the Edgefield County Detention Center as of Wednesday.
Edgefield Daily

Man Reports Possible Scammer Depositing Checks into His Account
web posted March 26, 2015
JOHNSTON – A Johnston man has contacted Johnston Police after believing he has been caught up in some type of a scam. The man said he had been looking for work through Craigs List and took a "job" working as a "personal representative" for an individual to handle their affairs. The man said the job paid $400 a week and he even underwent a background check. He would receive checks to deposit into his account and then pay money to others as directed and keeping $400 for himself.
Edgefield Daily

Edgefield Daily Seeks Part-Time Writer
web posted March 26, 2015
COUNTY – Edgefield Daily is seeking a part-time free lance writer to cover a variety of subjects and possible meetings. No professional writing experience is required. For more information email the Editor at editor@edgefielddaily.com with contact information.

Sports: Rebels Move to 3-0 in Region Play with 4-1 Win over Saluda
web posted March 26, 2015
SPORTS – The Rebels picked up another region win Tuesday night with a 4-1 win over Saluda. Tucker Paul got the win pitching 5 innings and giving up only 1 run and struck out 10.
Edgefield Daily

Strom Thurmond STC FFA Floriculture Team Wins State Title
web posted March 26, 2015
JOHNSTON – The Strom Thurmond Career & Technology Center FFA Floriculture team was named State Champions in the State Floriculture Career Development Event (CDE) held at Spartanburg Community College on Saturday, March 21, 2015. Team members Alana Thurmond, Leigh Northrop, Maggie Hightower and Scott Sherman were coached by their FFA Advisors Mr. Jeremy Brooks and Dr. Darla Steele, Agricultural Education instructors at Strom Thurmond Career & Technology Center. 
Edgefield Daily

Sports: Rebel Soccer Drops Close Game to Batesburg
web posted March 26, 2015
SPORTS – A well played game by the Rebels Soccer team Tuesday ended up with a victory for Batesburg. Goals by Alex Vera, Chris Hernandez and a Batesburg own goal helped to put the game into overtime.
Edgefield Daily

The Official BLUES BROTHERS Review Wednesday, April 15
web posted March 26, 2015
NEWBERRY – There is only one duo sanctioned by Dan Aykroyd and Judith Belushi to don the official hat and sunglasses and walk in the legendary footsteps of Jake and Elwood Blues. The Official Blues Brothers Revue will be at the Newberry Opera House on Wednesday, April 15th at 8pm.
Edgefield Daily

Daily Crime Blotter
web posted March 26, 2015
Edgefield Daily

Strom Thurmond STC FFA Wins Back-to-Back State Titles in Nursery / Landscape
web posted March 25, 2015
JOHNSTON – The Strom Thurmond Career & Technology Center FFA Nursery / Landscape team captured the state title for the second year in a row at the State Nursery/Landscape Career Development Event (CDE) held at Spartanburg Community College on Saturday, March 21, 2015. Team members Mary Ashlyn Goforth, Julia Crim, Misty Henderson, Hannah Sexton were coached by their FFA Advisors Mr. Jeremy Brooks and Dr. Darla Steele, Agricultural Education instructors at Strom Thurmond Career & Technology Center.
Edgefield Daily

Animal Control Dog Trap Stolen
web posted March 25, 2015
JOHNSTON – It is not often we receive an incident report filed by the Sheriff's Office for a theft from the Sheriff's Office. But on Tuesday there it was. Animal Control had to report that one of their dog traps had been stolen after it had been set to catch a stray dog.
Edgefield Daily

Dog At Large Injures Pet Rooster, Owner Charged
web posted March 25, 2015
MERRIWETHER – A Lands End Court woman called the Sheriff's Office Monday morning after a large dog attacked her rooster and "severely injured it" around 9 am. The woman said she had never seen the large white and grey dog in the neighborhood before, but apparently had the dog penned up waiting for the deputy to arrive.
Edgefield Daily

High Paying Nuclear Industry Jobs Coming Back to Edgefield Area
web posted March 25, 2015
JOHNSTON – Certified Nuclear operators are urgently needed in the CSRA. Strom Thurmond Career and Technology Center is working hard to fill that need. “It’s a perfect storm in terms of the industry’s lack of people to fill the positions at nuclear power plants that are opening up now and in the near future,” explained Bob Collins Department Head of the Nuclear Engineering Technology at Augusta Technical College.
Edgefield Daily

Letter to the Editor: Writer Disagrees with "Tech Professor" George Craig's "Net Neutrality" Column
web posted March 25, 2015
Dear Editor,
I am terribly disappointed in "Tech Professor" George Craig's posting about "Net Neutrality."  It misses the point completely. "Net Neutrality" is a high-sounding misnomer for heavy-handed government regulation of the internet.
Edgefield Daily

Religion: What's in a Name Part Eleven
By Pastor Phillip Howle
web posted March 25, 2015
RELIGION – I am writing this on Monday morning. Sunday was a wet and dreary day! It was the kind of day that if it was not a Sunday, you might want to stay in your jammies all day long and not leave the house. Now some of you might have attended Bedsheets Baptist church, if so set the alarm for next Sunday and if you don’t have a church home, you might as well come on out to Antioch. But let’s come back to the important subject of Jammies.
Edgefield Daily

National Work Zone Awareness Week March 23-27
web posted March 25, 2015
COUNTY – The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) joins the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) and other safety partners in observing the 2015 National Work Zone Awareness Week.
Edgefield Daily

Ole Edgefield Butcher Shop's weekly specials
web posted March 25, 2015
EDGEFIELD – The Ole Edgefield Butcher Shop's weekly specials have been released below. Click on their banner above and "Like" them on FaceBook. Prices below are good through March 31. All meats are Fresh - Never Frozen!
Edgefield Daily

Edgefield County Theatre Company Seeks Actors / Actresses
web posted March 25, 2015
EDGEFIELD – Auditions for Edgefield County Theatre Company`s production of Deathtrap directed by Dave Engelman, will be April 11th at 1pm & 12th at 3pm. The auditions will be held at 405 Main St., Edgefield. For more info call 803 336 8726. Complete details on the cast members sought can be found below.
Edgefield Daily

Lost Dogs - Martintown, Garrett Road Area - FOUND
web posted March 25, 2015
MERRIWETHER – Lost Dogs: Family is frantically searching for 2 missing dogs in the Martintown Road Garrett Road area near Buck Tyler's. One is German short hair pointer (brown and white) the other an English Setter (black and white) Dogs may possibly be together. Answers to the names Hank and George. Anyone with information is asked to [RETURNED] please call . Thanks! Click on photo for larger view.

Heritage Trail Pottery Tour & Sale in Edgefield and Greenwood Counties
web posted March 25, 2015
EDGEFIELD – Local potters in the Greenwood and Edgefield area are collaborating to host the fourth Annual Heritage Trail Pottery Tour & Sale, a series of events on Saturday, May 2 and Sunday, May 3, 2015. The weekend events also include pottery demonstrations and kiln openings at five host studios with 23 potters selling their recent work.
Edgefield Daily

Daily Crime Blotter
web posted March 25, 2015
Edgefield Daily

Edgefield Police Investigating "Walk-by Shooting" Incident
web posted March 24, 2015
EDGEFIELD – Edgefield Police and Edgefield County Sheriff's Deputies converged on the area of the Gary Street apartments following reports of shots fired from one group of individuals towards another group. No one was hit and it is unknown just how many shots were fired. "We will make an arrest," Edgefield Police Chief Ronnie Carter said. "Right now it's under investigation and we're sorting it all out."
Edgefield Daily

Motorcyclist Uninjured in Collision with Car
web posted March 24, 2015
MERRIWETHER – A motorcyclist was extremely fortunate to escape a collision with a Chevy Malibu with only very minor injuries Monday evening just before 7 pm. EMS arrived on the scene and treated him for a small cut and scrapes. The man was traveling northbound on Woodlawn Road at a high rate of speed and as he rounded a curve he was closing in fast on the Malibu that was making a left turn into a driveway.
Edgefield Daily

Stolen Car Leads to More Question than Answers
web posted March 24, 2015
JOHNSTON – An Edgefield man went to the Johnston Police Department on Saturday morning to report his 1999 gold Saturn SL2 4-door stolen overnight while parked on the 100 block of Lee Street with the keys left inside. Johnston Police began the investigation until it was discovered the location it was stolen from was actually in the County. As the investigation got underway the story behind the car became more suspicious with at least four different people buying and selling the car yet no one ever registering it in their name.
Edgefield Daily

Annual FFA Plant Sale at Strom Thurmond Career and Technology Center
web posted March 24, 2015
JOHNSTON – The Annual FFA Plant Sale at STCTC is going on now! FFA students will be available to help you select spring plants now during school hours or Saturday – March 28th from 8AM-2PM (at the Greenhouses behind the ST football field-house). Our plants look beautiful and people are welcome to come anytime to make their purchases. Below is a list of a few things you can expect to see:
Edgefield Daily

Public Notice: Solicitation for Request for Proposal 03-26-2015
web posted March 24, 2015
EDGEFIELD – Solicitation for RFP 03-26-2015 - Request for Proposals Janitorial and Cleaning Services Term Contract has been cancelled and withdrawn due to the need to revise the specifications. 
Edgefield Daily

Public Notice: First Reading of County FY 2015-2016 General Operating Budget
web posted March 24, 2015
EDGEFIELD – Edgefield County Council will hold first reading of the FY 2015-2016 General Operating Budget at its regular meeting Tuesday April 7, 2015.  The meeting will be held at 6:00 P.M. in the County Council Chambers at 225 Jeter Street.

Daily Crime Blotter
web posted March 24, 2015
Edgefield Daily

Additional Charges Filed Against Driver in Car Chase
web posted March 23, 2015
EDGEFIELD – The driver of a stolen SUV that led police on a wild car chase that ended after crashing the SUV on the Edgefield Rail Trail Thursday night has been served with additional warrants by Edgefield Police. 25-year-old Matthew Henry Ceasar, who fled the crash scene on foot and was later taken into custody, has been held since his arrest and was released on Sunday after posting bond on the additional charges.
Edgefield Daily

Rainbow Falls Road Home Found Burglarized
web posted March 23, 2015
COUNTY LINE – Family members checking on another family member's house on the 1300 block of Rainbow Falls Road Friday evening discovered someone had broken into the house and a car that was parked in the back yard  and called the Sheriff's Office. The callers advised dispatchers they would be waiting for the deputy outside and had not entered the house or the car.
Edgefield Daily

Suspects in Bar Beat-down Identified, Two Arrested
web posted March 23, 2015
JOHNSTON – The suspects in an unprovoked bar beat-down that sent an Edgefield man to the hospital on March 12 have been identified and two of them have been arrested. A Sheriff's investigator was able to download video surveillance footage from security cameras and that led to the suspects being identified. As of Friday, two of the men have been arrested and warrants have been issued for the others.
Edgefield Daily

Tech Professor: Net neutrality. Net what?
By George Craig
web posted March 23, 2015
TECH PROFESSOR – You hear the words net neutrality in the news all the time lately. They talk about it on the radio station, in the newspaper and in news reports on TV, but what does it mean? They just keep using the term Net Neutrality but no one ever explains it. So here I go. All in all net neutrality simply means that everything on the internet is fair and equal and that nothing gets prioritized.
Edgefield Daily

Bass Fishing Tournament Returns to Johnston Peach Blossom Festival
web posted March 23, 2015
JOHNSTON – Anglers who want to show their fishing abilities can sign up for the 2nd Annual Bass Fishing Tournament, part of the Johnston Peach Blossom Festival. The Tournament will be held May 2, the same day as the popular Festival. Check-in is at 6 a.m. that day with weigh-in held in downtown Johnston shortly after 2 p.m. The entry fee is $50 and is limited to 30 boats. This Tournament is pond fishing and for Jon Boats only.
Edgefield Daily

Sports: Rebels Baseball Team Moves to 2-0 in Region with 8-0 Shutout
web posted March 23, 2015
SPORTS – The Rebels baseball team picked up another region win over Cresent Friday evening. The win moves the Rebels to 8-2 overall and 2-0 in region play. Tannor Byrd got the win on the mound tossing a complete game shut out and striking out six.
Edgefield Daily

Sports: Rebel "C" Team Splits Double Header with Ninety Six
Staff Report
web posted March 23, 2015
SPORTS – Dedication, determination, nurturing, patience, coaching and plenty of support, things needed to build a championship baseball program. For Coach Mack Hite and his staff, Strom Thurmond High School took a huge step towards realizing those championship goals at Rebel Field Saturday morning, when the first "C" team in the history of the school took the field.
Edgefield Daily

Late Night Crash on I-20 Kills North Augusta Man
web posted March 21, 2015
NORTH AUGUSTA – A late night multiple vehicle collision has claimed the life of a 40 year old North Augusta man. Carl Furillo Polite Jr. was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash that happened just before midnight on Friday night. The location of the crash was I-20 east near mile marker 5.
Edgefield Daily

Car Chase Ends with Crash on Walking Trail
web posted March 21, 2015
EDGEFIELD – Edgefield Police issued a BOLO (be on the lookout) for a stolen brown Chevrolet Tahoe Thursday night after it had been reported stolen by the owner earlier in the evening. Around 10:30 an Edgefield County Sheriff's Deputy spotted the SUV at the red light on the town square and turned around to make a traffic stop while alerting Edgefield Police he had located the stolen SUV. When the deputy turned on his blue lights the driver took off with the deputy in pursuit.
Edgefield Daily

Stolen Jeep Recovered in Columbia County, Driver at Large
web posted March 21, 2015
MERRIWETHER – A Briggs Haven Circle man called the Sheriff's Office Thursday evening to report his 2000 white Jeep Grand Cherokee stolen. He spotted the Jeep on Highway 25 and when he attempted to catch up to the SUV the driver, Mark Ervin Worthy, 21, of Trenton, sped off heading towards Edgefield. That's when he contacted the Sheriff's Office to report the vehicle stolen.
Edgefield Daily

A Country Store Carries On
This column was slated for publication on Friday and was accidentally left out.
By Tom Poland
web posted March 21, 2015
LIFE DOWN SOUTH – It’s been called the best country store in South Carolina. You can buy Virginia cured hams there, and you can buy gas, diesel, propane, shotgun shells, wrenches, and frying pans. Why you can even buy hog heads for headcheese, red hash, fig jam, hoop cheese, Blenheim’s Ginger Ale, and cheap wine there. As country stores in this part of the South go, it’s famous. Its fame, in fact, earned it a spot in the esteemed Southern magazine, Garden & Gun.
Edgefield Daily

Did Mother Get Over on Scammer?
web posted March 21, 2015
COUNTY LINE – A Broad Walk Drive woman called the Edgefield County Sheriff's Office to report a possible scam Thursday evening after looking at her bank statement and finding $6,744.66 had been deposited into a bank account she shares with her son who is away at college. Thinking there may be a scam involved the woman "froze" the bank account with the extra money still in the account.
Edgefield Daily

Lost Dog - Edgefield - FOUND 3/21/15
web posted March 21, 2015
EDGEFIELD – Lost Black Labrador Retriever. Last seen Thursday night, March 19, on Buncombe Street in Edgefield. 11 years old. Friendly. Black with grey muzzle. Please call [Removed - Dog returned to owners by Edgefield Daily reader] if you have any information. Click on picture for larger view.

Daily Crime Blotter
web posted March 21, 2015
Edgefield Daily

County to Add Third Ambulance Crew
web posted March 20, 2015
COUNTY – The Edgefield County Council has plans to add a much needed and well over-due third ambulance crew to the County EMS. County Council Chairwoman Genia Blackwell has pushed for the additional crew for years to cut down on "third out" calls or having to summon an ambulance from a neighboring county with Edgefield County residents having to wait extended periods of time for help to arrive when both ambulances are already out on calls.
Edgefield Daily

Man Photographs Truck Before Theft of Tools
web posted March 20, 2015
MERRIWETHER – A Delaughter Point Drive man noticed a strange truck pull into his driveway Wednesday afternoon and a unknown man get out and walk toward his house. The homeowner pulled out his cell phone and took a picture of the truck as the man walked towards his garage. By the time he went out to see what the man wanted he was gone, and so were some of his tools.
Edgefield Daily

Suspicious Vehicle Spotted Prior to Discovery of Burglary
web posted March 20, 2015
COUNTY LINE – A Trenton man working on a mobile home that belongs to his brother on Wednesday spotted a burgundy van pull to the back of the trailer at an adjacent lot, that also belongs to his brother. After awhile he felt the situation was suspicious and walked over and found the driver and informed him he needed to leave, which he did without incident. Later his brother arrived and was informed of the van and when the brother went to check on the property he found it had been burglarized.
Edgefield Daily

Edgefield County Clemson Extension Talks Pollinators
web posted March 20, 2015
EDGEFIELD – We talk a lot about soil and soil health for gardens, both vegetable and flower, here at the Extension Office. It is important to have the right nutrients at the right amount to grow healthy plants. But did you know that other factors contribute to your garden’s wellbeing? Several come to mind such as: location, moisture, sun, and one that we rarely talk about, pollinators.
Edgefield Daily

Sports: Rebels pick up Region win over Abbeville 7-3
web posted March 20, 2015
SPORTS – The Rebels baseball team picked up a win in the first game of Region play Tuesday evening by defeating Abbeville 7-3. The Rebels posted 12 hits on the night with 7 of those crossing the plate in the win.
Edgefield Daily

Daily Crime Blotter
web posted March 20, 2015
Edgefield Daily

Winners of 9th Annual Shamrock Run Released
web posted March 19, 2015
EDGEFIELD – Though the weather might not have cooperated as much as everyone would have liked, the runners, walkers and supporters still turned out to make the event a success. A total of 122 people entered to either run or walk the 2.4 mile distance. William Hammond took first place by completing the course in just over 12 minutes followed by Holton Manly and Ray Outzs. A full listing of each division and their times are listed below.
Edgefield Daily

Bipartisan DOT Reform Package Advances in State Senate
web posted March 19, 2015
COLUMBIA – A Senate Transportation subcommittee advanced a bill Wednesday that would restructure the Department of Transportation. The 4500 employee agency faces increasing criticism from taxpayers and lawmakers frustrated with lack of accountability and transparency.
Edgefield Daily

Religion: What's in a Name Part Ten
By Pastor Phillip Howle
web posted March 19, 2015
RELIGION – Let me start with a huge thank you to each reader who has so generously supported my trip to East Asia. The prayers and contributions of you all have made my trip possible and will help it be a success. I have been brushing up on my systematic theology to teach the Pastor’s and I will also be able to preach the whole book of Ephesians. The Lord has provided for me through you all.
Edgefield Daily

Sports: Thurmond Beats Fox Creek 1-0 in Soccer
web posted March 19, 2015
SPORTS – The Strom Thurmond Boy's Varsity Soccer team defeated Fox Creek 1-0 on Wednesday evening. The Rebels took an early lead in the 1st half and held Fox Creek scoreless for the rest of the game. Both teams are to be congratulated for superb sportsmanship during the match.
Edgefield Daily

O Positive Blood Donors Urged to Donate for Local Patients
web posted March 19, 2015
COUNTY – Shepeard Community Blood Center is asking donors who are O Positive and eligible to give to donate as soon as possible. Fresh off the heels of a recent urgent need plea for O Negative blood donors, area hospitals are now in need of O Positive blood donors to roll up their sleeves.
Edgefield Daily

Daily Crime Blotter
web posted March 19, 2015
Edgefield Daily

Owners Report Nearly $22,000 in Damaged, Stolen Property from Johnston Home
web posted March 18, 2015
JOHNSTON – The owners of a Holmes Pond Road home came down from West Virginia to check on their property and found over $8,000 in damages and over $13,000 in property missing from the home and called the Sheriff's Office. The last time they checked the property was in September or October of last year after a couple they were renting the home to moved out.
Edgefield Daily

Be Aware of Frauds Posing as Family of Deadly Fire Victims
web posted March 18, 2015
COUNTY – Edgefield Daily has been made aware that there are those who are setting up fake GoFundMe.com pages in an effort to prey upon the hearts and sympathy of good people who are donating to the Watkins and McKie families on their actual GoFundMe.com page. There is only one page that has been set up by the family and the link is http://www.gofundme.com/olwb40 .
Edgefield Daily

Strom Thurmond To Host First Ever Alumni Baseball Game and Home Run Derby
web posted March 18, 2015
JOHNSTON – On Saturday, March 21, Strom Thurmond High School will host the first ever alumni game for anyone who has played baseball for the Rebels. The day will kick off at 11:00 a.m. when the new Strom Thurmond C Team (7th and 8th graders) will play a double header against Ninety-Six.
Edgefield Daily

Strom Thurmond Career & Technology FFA Students Aid in Sweetwater Community Center Beautification
web posted March 18, 2015
MERRIWETHER – FFA students at Strom Thurmond Career & Technology Center planted all the new shrubbery at the newly renovated Sweetwater Community Center on Sweetwater Road. Under the direction of Dr. Darla Steele, these students assisted Marion Eargle from the Edgefield County Maintenance Department to achieve this goal. The county had a landscape drawing and received plants from Costa-Layman's in Trenton, SC. 
Edgefield Daily

Sports: Lady Rebels Defeat Abbeville 4-2
Staff Report
web posted March 18, 2015
SPORTS – For Taylor Driggers, her first error of the night couldn't of come at a worse time.  After playing perfect defense for 6 innings, the 7th grader "booted" a routine ground ball with her team clinging to a 4-2 lead in the last inning of play.  Driggers, was about to grow up fast and bring her Rebel teammates along for the ride.
Edgefield Daily

Sports: Rebels Baseball Routs Aiken 12-2
web posted March 18, 2015
SPORTS – Strom Thurmond defeated Aiken 12-2 during Monday night's game, moving the Rebels to 6-2 on the season. The team continues to improve working together as a team and the wins keep coming.
Edgefield Daily

Ole Edgefield Butcher Shop's weekly specials
web posted March 18, 2015
EDGEFIELD – The Ole Edgefield Butcher Shop's weekly specials have been released below. Click on their banner above and "Like" them on FaceBook. Prices below are good through March 24. All meats are Fresh - Never Frozen!
Edgefield Daily

Tom Poland's "Life Down South" Columns Start Friday
web posted March 18, 2015
COUNTY – Tom Poland's "Life Down South" columns will start publication this Friday. Tom writes about the South, its people, land, and culture. He travels back roads looking for forgotten places, captivating people, and vestiges of bygone times, many of which appear in his columns and features. Much of that work finds its way into his books.
Edgefield Daily

From Silver to Lead, SRS turns Potential Trash into Recycled Treasure
web posted March 18, 2015
AIKEN – During fiscal year 2014, Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) recycled $1.4 million of precious metals through the Department of Energy (DOE) Business Center for Precious Metals Sales and Recovery. Additionally, SRNS recycled more than 115,000 pounds of electronics, over 970,000 pounds of scrap metal and approximately 13,000 pounds of spent (ammunition) shell casings.
Edgefield Daily

Daily Crime Blotter
web posted March 18, 2015
Edgefield Daily

Fire Victims to be Laid to Rest Today
web posted March 17, 2015
JOHNSTON – The funerals for Ms. Laterrious Watkins and her two children, Jacob and Aubrey McKie, who were killed in the deadly fire last Wednesday morning, will be held today at the Civic Center in Ridge Spring due to such a large crowd expected to attend. Ms. Watkins' fiancé, Jacob McKie, as well as extended family will meet with mourners prior to the funerals. Over $13,000 has been raised through donations from across the web on a GoFundMe.com page put up by family members to help pay for the funeral expenses.
Edgefield Daily

Sex Offender Arrested, Other Still Sought
web posted March 17, 2015
COUNTY – Johnston Police arrested a sex offender for failing to register while at the home to serve a Magistrate Court bench warrant. Meanwhile, the Edgefield County Sheriff's Office is still seeking the whereabouts of another sex offender who has failed to register after moving back to the county back in December of 2014. Johnston Police went to a home on the 500 block of Addison Street to serve and outstanding Magistrate Court bench warrant for Jeffrey Lamont Butler (left), 46, when they discovered he was unregistered in the county after moving back from New York.
Edgefield Daily

Stray Bullets Hit Family Home
web posted March 17, 2015
MERRIWETHER – A Copeland Circle man called the Sheriff's Office  Sunday evening after hearing gunshots in the area and the later discovering at least two bullets had struck the family home around 7 pm. Fortunately the bullets did not penetrate the interior of the home and no one was injured.
Edgefield Daily

Sports: Lady Rebels, Benenhaley Cruise to Another Win
Staff Report
web posted March 17, 2015
SPORTS – For Coach Holley Pace and her Lady Rebel softball team, business is about to pick up. After getting off to a blistering 5-0 start, Region play begins Tuesday when Abbeville comes to town.
Edgefield Daily

Third Annual Agriculture Day Spreads Community Awareness for Agriculture
web posted March 17, 2015
JOHNSTON – The Strom Thurmond Career & Technology Center Agriculture Department along with the Edgefield County Young Farmer Association held the Third Annual Edgefield County Agriculture Day on Saturday March 14, 2015 on the campus of Strom Thurmond High School with an estimated 1500 in attendance.
Edgefield Daily

Daily Crime Blotter
web posted March 17, 2015
Edgefield Daily

Strom Thurmond Mock Trial Team Takes State Title
web posted March 16, 2015
JOHNSTON – The Strom Thurmond Mock Trial Team won the State Championship on Saturday after facing off against the best teams in the state. They defeated North Myrtle Beach High School (last year's state champion and national runner-up), Chapin High School, Socastee High School, and River Bluff High School before competing against Bob Jones in the championship round.
Edgefield Daily

Burglar Interrupted, Hits Victim With Gun
web posted March 16, 2015
MERRIWETHER – A Merriwether woman heard a noise outside her home around 10:30 Saturday morning and looked out to see a man standing on her front porch who then walked away. She asked her son if anyone had knocked at the door and he said no. A short time later she heard a noise underneath the house and she said aloud that she was going to call 911 and that is when the man returned to the front porch and she confronted him and told him to leave the property which he did, or so she thought.
Edgefield Daily

Tech Professor: Internet in the Country
By George Craig
web posted March 16, 2015
TECH PROFESSOR – Internet is everywhere these days. Or is it? If you live out in the country then maybe not. There are a lot of wide open spaces that have service options but in our area they are limited. Lets go over some of these.
Edgefield Daily

Baseball: Rebels Drop Close Game to Greenwood 3-2
web posted March 16, 2015
SPORTS – The Rebels baseball team dropped a close game to Greenwood 3-2 on Saturday afternoon. This puts the team at 5-2 so far for the season.
Edgefield Daily

School Board Covers Long Agenda, Recognizes Spelling Bee Champs
By Anne Waits
web posted March 16, 2015
JOHNSTON – The Edgefield County School Board kicked off its March meeting last Tuesday night with a special order of business spotlighting the Edgefield County Spelling Bee winners and the Junior Scholars from JET Middle School and Merriwether Middle School.
Edgefield Daily

Commissioner’s Cup BBQ Cook-off and Festival Returns to State Farmers Market
web posted March 16, 2015
COLUMBIA, S.C. – The 4th annual Commissioner’s Cup BBQ Cook-off and Festival is Saturday, March 21 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the State Farmers Market. Cook teams from across the southeast will compete for the State Championship title and other top prizes. The cook off is sanctioned by the Southern BBQ Network.
Edgefield Daily

Family Seeks Help for Funeral Expenses after Deadly Fire
web posted March 14, 2015
EDGEFIELD – Due to the ongoing investigation of the deadly fire that claimed the lives of Laterrious Watkins, 24, and her two small children Aubrey Mckie, 2, and Jacob Mckie, 1, information being gathered for a follow up report is difficult to come by. However, the issue at hand for the family is paying for the three unexpected funerals.
Edgefield Daily

Man Transported to Hospital after Beating at Bar
web posted March 14, 2015
JOHNSTON – An Edgefield man was taken by ambulance to the Edgefield County Hospital to be treated for several cuts to his face and head after being jumped by five unknown men while at a Johnston bar on Lee Street Thursday night. The victim said his attackers were all black and accused him of being a "snitch" and that he "told on SpongeBob". He ignored them and that is when the attack began.
Edgefield Daily

Lost Dogs: Airport Road Area - RETURNED
web posted March 14, 2015
JOHNSTON – LOST - Two female Pit Bull mix dogs missing from the Airport Road area in Johnston. Older female answers to Bella and younger female answers to Eve, both are very friendly dogs. Last seen on Wednesday night 3/11. They escaped from their enclosure and our children are devastated as they are cherished family pets. Please contact [FOUND and RETURNED] if you have any information. Click on photos for larger view.

Chamber Sponsors Bingo and Relay for Life ‘Stroll’ at Johnston Peach Blossom Festival
web posted March 14, 2015
JOHNSTON – Citizens can participate in two Peach Blossom Festival-related events in Johnston, both sponsored by the Edgefield County Chamber of Commerce. First, the Chamber will hold A Night of Bingo Games on Thursday, April 30, 6 p.m., American Legion Building, 99 Edisto St., Johnston. Hot dogs, chips and drinks will be available for purchase. Proceeds benefit Chamber programs.
Edgefield Daily

State Museum Presents Inaugural South Carolina Muzzleloader Conference, Show and Sale
web posted March 14, 2015
COLUMBIA – The South Carolina State Museum is excited to present the inaugural South Carolina Muzzleloader Conference, Show and Sale from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Friday April 10 and Saturday, April 11. The two-day gun show will feature a variety of workshops and sessions on 18th and 19th century muzzleloaders led by gun and history experts and will also feature displays of muzzleloaders and accessories by exhibitors and collectors from across the country.
Edgefield Daily

Merriwether Community Coalition Meeting Monday, March 16th at 6:00 pm
web posted March 14, 2015
MERRIWETHER – The long awaited Community Center renovations have now been completed and opened for use. With much appreciation to Ambassador Henry Cooper and Mrs. Bobbye Cooper for their donation of the Sweetwater Community Center and to the Edgefield County Council led by Mrs. Genia Blackwell, we look forward to utilizing this facility to preserve and celebrate the rich history of this community and to plan for the future. 
Edgefield Daily

Daily Crime Blotter
web posted March 14, 2015
Edgefield Daily

David Fallaw Named New Assistant Superintendent
web posted March 13, 2015
JOHNSTON – The Edgefield County School District has announced that current Chief Financial Officer for the school district, David Fallaw, has been appointed to serve as assistant superintendent effective July1, 2015. Mr. Fallaw will take the place of Donna Strom who notified the school board of her desire to retire at the end of this fiscal year. The unanimous decision was made at the last regular school board meeting Tuesday night.
Edgefield Daily

Lady Rebels Softball Blanks Ridge Spring - Monetta 17-0
Staff Report
web posted March 13, 2015
SPORTS – The Strom Thurmond Lady Rebels softball team stayed perfect after blanking Ridge Spring - Monetta, 17-0 Thursday night. The visiting Rebels would get things going early and often by scoring 10 runs in the their first at bat. Madelyn Wise would start in the circle and turn in one inning of work. On the night the 8th grader would face 4 batters, striking out 2 and allowing no hits.
Edgefield Daily

SC Senate Passes Bill That Bans Powdered Alcohol
web posted March 13, 2015
COLUMBIA – Thursday, the South Carolina Senate passed a bill sponsored by Senators Larry Martin and Greg Hembree that bans the sale of powdered alcohol. Powdered alcohol was approved for labeling by the federal government this week, and without this ban it could be sold without regulation according to Senator Martin, Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee.
Edgefield Daily

STCTC’s Cosmetology Program Wows Audience with 3rd Annual Fashion Show
web posted March 13, 2015
JOHNSTON – Strom Thurmond Career and Technology Center’s (STCTC) Cosmetology students flaunted their skills this past Saturday night. The show’s theme was Spring is in the Air in Your Hair. “Cosmetology is art,” stated Franquilla Williams, first year student. The cosmetology students exhibited their skills and creativity with live models and mannequins. “Judging this event is difficult because all these students are so creative,” explained Charlotte Cheatham, event judge.
Edgefield Daily

Amazon Expanding Lexington County Operations
web posted March 13, 2015
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Amazon, a global leader in e-commerce, has announced plans to hire 500 additional full-time employees at the company’s Lexington County fulfillment center. Since opening in 2012, the Amazon fulfillment center in West Columbia, S.C. has brought more than 1,500 full-time jobs to Lexington County. Amazon is adding the new positions to meet growing customer demand. Employees will pick, pack and ship customer orders.
Edgefield Daily

Abbeville Cat Exposes Four People to Rabies
web posted March 13, 2015
COLUMBIA – Four people have been referred to their health care provider for consultation after being exposed to rabies by a stray cat from Abbeville County that tested positive for the disease, the Department of Health and Environmental Control reported yesterday. The exposures occurred on March 6, 2015, and the cat tested positive for rabies on March 10.
Edgefield Daily

Daily Crime Blotter
web posted March 13, 2015
Edgefield Daily

Cause of Deadly Fire "Undetermined" Investigators Say
web posted March 12, 2015
EDGEFIELD – The cause of the deadly fire on Country Club Drive that took the life of Laterrious Watkins, 24, and her two small children Aubrey Mckie, 2, and Jacobe Mckie, 1, remains undetermined according to Edgefield County Sheriff's Fire Investigators. "There is no foul play," Inv. James Smith said Wednesday, one of the two investigators working the case. "The fire started in the living room area of the house," he said.
Edgefield Daily

Strom Thurmond Advances to SC Bar State Mock Trial Competition
web posted March 12, 2015
COLUMBIA – Strom Thurmond High School will join 11 other schools to compete in the SC Bar State High School Mock Trial Competition March 13-14 at the Matthew J. Perry Jr. Federal Courthouse in Columbia. Participating students from Strom Thurmond High School include Antonia Adams, Delshawn Anderson, Maegan Carter, Kristal Herrin, Jamarr McCain, Arturo Pineda, Grace Russ, Michael Stradley, Royden Watkins and Keyson Whiteside.
Edgefield Daily

Trooper Unknowingly Arrests Theft Suspect Making Getaway
web posted March 12, 2015
TRENTON – A South Carolina Highway Patrolman making a traffic stop in Lexington County ended up arresting the suspect of a theft of nearly $2,000 worth of tools from a Trenton woman earlier that night. James Leighton Parlin, 41, was arrested by the Trooper just before 3 am Wednesday morning for driving under suspension. Little did he know at the time that Parlin was actually making his getaway after getting loading up his van with tools from a farm on Girl Scout Camp Road in Trenton.
Edgefield Daily

3rd Annual Agriculture Field Day Saturday - Rain Or Shine
web posted March 12, 2015
JOHNSTON – Join the Edgefield County Young Farmers and FFA at Strom Thurmond Career and Technology Center this Saturday, March 14th, 2015 for the 3rd Annual Edgefield County Agriculture Day. The event will take place rain or shine in front of Strom Thurmond High School from 12-4pm. If raining, many of the events will be moved inside and under tents.
Edgefield Daily

Sports: Baseball - Rebels beat Silver Bluff 11-4
web posted March 12, 2015
SPORTS – The Rebels baseball team moves to 5-1 on the season with a 11-4 win over Silver Bluff Wednesday afternoon. John Autrey Yonce picked up the win on the mound going six innings striking out 8.
Edgefield Daily

3rd Annual STCTC Agricultural Department Silent Auction to Benefit Agricultural Scholarships
web posted March 12, 2015
JOHNSTON – On Saturday March 14, 2015 join the local community for an amazing day of fun, food, and friends – all to support student scholarships. The 3rd Annual Strom Thurmond Agriculture Department Silent Auction will take place from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. at Strom Thurmond High School as part of the 3rd Annual Edgefield County Agriculture Field Day.
Edgefield Daily

Violent Universe: Catastrophes of the Cosmos Debuts at the State Museum on March 28
web posted March 12, 2015
COLUMBIA – Witness the raw power of the cosmos in the South Carolina State Museum’s new full-dome planetarium show, Violent Universe: Catastrophes of the Cosmos, debuting Saturday, March 28 in the BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina Planetarium. Guests can spend their spring break exploring the great forces that hold the Universe together and occasionally try to destroy it.
Edgefield Daily

Daily Crime Blotter
web posted March 12, 2015
Edgefield Daily

Three Dead in Early Morning Fire