Saviors Of The Sinking Ship
By far and away, one of the most ridiculous expenditures of taxpayer money we’ve ever heard of is the $9.2 million “loan” granted two weeks ago to Patriots Point to upgrade a Korean War-era destroyer that is apparently on the verge of sinking into Charleston (S.C.) Harbor.
You can read all about this boondoggle by clicking here, but as our founding editor said at the time – unless this ship is actually going to go fight the Koreans (like, this week), then this is one of the dumbest allocations of state funding we’ve ever seen.
Additionally, it’s yet another example of government picking winners and losers in the private sector – with our money.
Sources tell FITS that in addition to S.C. Treasurer Converse Chellis (who received the lion’s share of publicity for “saving” the boat), S.C. Rep. James Smith and lobbyist John McGill – son of S.C. Sen. Yancey McGill – were instrumental in getting this complete
Or “gettin’ er done,” as we like to say here in God’s Country.
Smith’s motivation?
His grandfather is said to have served on the boat.
McGill’s motivation?
Well, the former staffer to the Lieutenant Governor has just opened his own consulting firm, and apparently wanted to immediately (and quite effectively, we might add) advertise his ability to finagle tax dollars from South Carolina politicians.
Well done, lad. Well done.
Comments
By UpYers on June 25th, 2009 at 11:04 am
Would make a very nice artificial reef…
By Catherine Spade on June 25th, 2009 at 11:14 am
I’ve always been impressed with John in general, as he’s a great young man who works hard to get the job done (or as you so eloquently put it, “gets er done”). He seems to know just about everyone and is always kind and personable, unlike some other stuck-up lobbyists I know.
Anyway, thanks for pointing out one of the best (and so goodlooking, too!) lobbyists out there. It’s always nice to see someone so deserving getting positive press.
By Brian Woods on June 25th, 2009 at 11:20 am
McGill is the man. sounds like he can get it done. But no surprise here. He is one of the few lobbyists who is actually willing to work instead of spending the day running their mouth and the night partying it up.
By Catherine Spade on June 25th, 2009 at 11:36 am
@ Brian Woods
Ain’t that the truth!!
By Mo Paul on June 25th, 2009 at 12:15 pm
As a graduate of The Citadel, I commend anyone dedicated to the restoration and appreciation of our Armed Forces. My grandfather served in WWII and lost his brother in combat during this conflict. I believe it is vital to express our gratitude to those that have served our Country. South Carolina has a very deep history with regards to patriotism hence “Patriots Point”. We need more lobbyists like Mr. John McGill who will fight for the fighting man.
By Caroline on June 25th, 2009 at 12:39 pm
Well done John McGill! From what I hear, there are still Veterans serving on the Laffey who are deeply grateful that they have not been forgotten. I know you will continue to do more good work with your new firm, Capitol Connections! I will definitely recommend you to anyone who needs a voice!
By madcock on June 26th, 2009 at 12:14 am
I can only imagine how Barry Goldwater would feel about people who call themself conservative Republicans being horrified about a loan to preserve a living memorial to brave sailors who fought fascists in WW II and communists in the Korean confict while cheerleading giving tax money to church schools and the rich snobs who are begging for welfare to pay to send “little Marshall and Muffy” to prep school.
Wonder how many trips to Buenos Aires for National Guard hero Marshall could have been paid for out of this $9mil.
As I posted in another thread, it’s no wonder you people can’t get elected dog catcher these days.
By Joe Bobby on June 26th, 2009 at 8:36 am
Damn that McGill is good…he even lobbied people to post on this site making him look good. Man, a rise from Senate security to your own firm…the American dream, errr, my daddy’s a Senator…is alive and well
By madcock on June 26th, 2009 at 11:09 am
Yes Joe Bobby, if only the McGill kid had scratched his way up from nothing without coattails, like Dubya and Romeo Marshall III.
By straight up on June 26th, 2009 at 1:32 pm
Yo bobby joe and limp cock, dont hate the player, hate the game!
By CNSYD on June 26th, 2009 at 9:33 pm
FITS if we are going to sink these ships, lets plow up the National Cemetaries. Hell it is just a bunch of dead people. They don’t vote or pay taxes. Think of the savings. We wouldn’t need that group of soldiers guarding the tomb of the unknown. The list is endless. Why honor those who fought for our freedom? We can eliminate holidays like Veteran’s Day and Memorial Day. More savings. You are really on to something FITS.
By Ashley on July 6th, 2009 at 1:02 am
I always knew John would be a success. He has the ability to make things happen and make people love him. He really is a great guy who really deserves it.