During our Eat & Greet time from 6:00-6:30, we enjoyed Jay Dunbar’s excellent chili and mini cornbread muffins.
The meeting was gaveled in at 6:30. The invocation was delivered by Regina Sanders and the pledge was led by Greg Sander. Chairman, Amy Potts, then introduced Kendall Haley, Political Director for DogeSC. Shortly thereafter, he was joined by Justin Lane, Midlands Director.
Kendall and Justin spoke to us about how they got involved in politics, and subsequently signed on to work for Rom Reddy and DogeSC. They reminded those in attendance that SC has the highest income tax of any red state and more regulations per capita than California! Their entire presentation can be seen here:
The current focus of DogeSC at present is two pieces of legislation, one involving the selection of judges in SC. (We Are Going To Change The Way We Elect Judges In South Carolina)
The key points are:
The other bill contains provisions that would increase parental fairness during divorce proceedings in our family courts:
Kendall and Justin closed by telling us that they need help all over the state. The Saluda County GOP will be assessing local support for these bills and deciding how we can help get them passed.
The business meeting began with announcements from the Chair.
- The engagement of Hollywood Committeeman, Gray Riley was announced.
- The purpose of Resolutions was discussed, and members were urged to submit resolutions on issues they care about.
- Members were reminded that we need donations and that they can be made online on our website any time.
- The lake restaurant most people know as Spinners is in Saluda County and might be an excellent venue for a 4-County Boat Parade (Saluda, Newberry, Richland and Lexington) and Candidate event during the 2026 Election.
- Update on Pickens situation. Amy will help with Pickens ReOrg on November 18.
The Treasurers report, given by Treasurer, Deb Camp, showed we have over $900 in our checking account, and are close to our goal for “cushion” of $1000.
New Business
- The EC members voted unanimously to begin raising money for our “Vote Today” signs, and buy as many as we have raised money for on April 1.
- The committee also voted unanimously to hold a Candidate Forum shortly after candidate filing closes around April 1. It will be in the same format as the event hosted by the last Saluda GOP Officers.
- There was unanimous approval to participate in the Town of Saluda Parade on December 6. One member will wear the new elephant costume. Some will ride in the back of Phyllis’s red truck, and others will walk and hand out candy. Everyone will wear funny Christmas hats or headbands. Amy showed a sign that will be used.
Committee Reports
- Jay, 2nd Vice-Chairman for Voter Education, gave his report on another aspect of The Big Beautiful Bill: No tax on tips. He explained how it will actually work.
- Regina Sanders, 4th Vice-Chairman for Events, told about three upcoming events Saluda Republicans may be interested in. She further suggested that events such as these, even if not political in nature, are a great way to connect with others in the community.
- Gail Meyer, Hospitality Chairman, told about a new event she is working on with the Town of Saluda. It will be called the Christmas Extravaganza and will feature Holiday Worship, Carols, Food, and the Parade. The event will culminate in the lighting of the town Christmas Tree.
- Melinda Kneece, Precinct Manager, announced the election of new Pleasant Grove officers. On Thursday, November 6, Brenda Bedenbaugh was elected Executive Committeewoman, and Jay Dunbar was elected President.
After an opportunity for open comment and discussion among all attendees, Kim Parigoris, let the group in the Republican Pledge, and the meeting was then adjourned.
Kendall and Justin stayed around after the meeting and several members spoke to them and got Palmetto Revolution caps. The group was very receptive to both of them as well as the DogeSC initiative.
Kendall and Justin coming forward to tell us about DogeSC
Russ Terrell, Makenzie and Melinda Kneece, and Deb Camp.
Amy Potts introduces our speakers.
Back to front: Judy Mason, Brenda and Michelle Bedenbaugh, Justin Lane and Kendall Haley
