Marlboro County is definitely Trump country. Russell Fry has been endorsed by former President Donald Trump. At a republican function in Marlboro County, Fry discussed his support for the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce’s I-73 agenda.
James W Chappelear Jr. of Bennetsville attended the function.
Said Chappelear, “For the most part we, in the county, oppose I-73. Bennettsville is a poor town. I-73 will turn this into a ghost reminiscent of a wild west ghost [town] we see on T.V.”
Added Chappelear, “Tom Rice told me about a year ago that it would bring prosperity to our county. I did not believe him then and I do not believe him now.”
The I-73 measure is not popular, as can be heard (off and on) in the poor quality audio below.
Fry stood his ground and held his own, but it was clear attendants were not in favor of his pro Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce agenda.
AUDIO IS VERY POOR
FRY IS PRO MBACC and the MBACC Agenda
Fry is as pro Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce as is Tom Rice. MBACC is each candidate’s key constituent.
The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce is the leading resource for business and tourism in the Myrtle Beach area. They are a non-profit organization that promotes economic development, provides assistance to small businesses, and promotes tourism in the area. The group receives $51 million annually in government funded tax hand outs. MBACC collects more money annually in taxes than do most small, rural towns in S.C.
The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce is one of many organizations that offer a variety of services to their members and the community. They are also the most politically powerful organization with PACs that work through social media, email blasts, and other marketing efforts.
HOW WAS FRY RECEIVED OVERALL?
Said Chappelear, “It was far from a cool response. Actually, Mr. Fry received a very warm response from our fellow Marlboro Countians. While most of us here locally do not support the construction of I73, Mr. Fry handled the question truthfully and quietly listened to alternative solutions. As a member of the SC Republican Party’s Executive Committee and one who is still evaluating all candidates in the 7th District Congressional race, I attended last night’s meeting and I can state definitely that Russell Fry was welcomed here in Marlboro County warmly and treated with great respect.”
“I personally was the one who broached the I73 question to Mr. Fry. He respectfully stated that he supported I73 but was open to any alternatives that would benefit our county. I spoke with the young lady who provided the video. At the time I did not know she worked for the Barbara Arthur campaign. I was respectful and polite to this young lady particularly because she is the niece of a lifelong friend. As I left the meeting I picked up one of the Fry signs. He quickly told me I should toss it into the trash,” added Chappelear.
NOT SURE WHO TO SUPPORT
Said Chappelear, “And for me personally, I do not know who I will support in this race. I only know that I will not support Tom Rice. I feel betrayed.“
“When I bid Mr. Fry goodbye, he then gave me his card with his personal cell number and said I should call him if he could be of service,” said Chappelear.