VidaMiller.com

Thank you.

2010-11-04T07:57:00.003-04:00

Thank you each and everyone for your support, both morally and politically. I am proud of the campaign we ran and all of the many friends and family who spend countless hours of their time volunteering. Also I am proud of the many accomplishments we have made over the years, which could not have been possible without us all working together.
It has been a wonderful 14 years and I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to have served the people of District 108. Again, thank you.

Sun News Endorsement - No Job for a Rookie

2010-10-30T06:30:00.001-04:00

State Rep. Vida Miller, a Democrat from the Waccamaw Neck, has been in the state legislature 14 years, but still manages to vote like a reformer. When we looked back at her record this summer, we noted a consistent pattern of votes in favor of on-the-record voting, closing campaign-finance loopholes, restructuring state and local government, and other important issues. Her persistence was certainly appreciated by the residents of Sandy Island as they sought help finding a way across the Waccamaw River.
For at least the second election in a row, Miller has drawn a smart, young opponent from the Sanford/Haley wing of the Republican Party. A 22-year-old who spent an eventful last summer interning in the governor's office, Kevin Ryan has an understanding of state government that is almost startling. A self-described "policy nerd," Ryan would fit in well with the reform-minded conservative legislators he admires.
Ryan's experience, while substantial for a man of his age, pales in comparison to Miller's, and as we noted above, it is experience above all that will be needed amid the budget battles in this coming legislative year. We have no doubt that Ryan will ultimately have whatever political career he wants, but for now, it is clearly Miller we need in office.
Read more: http://www.thesunnews.com/2010/10/30/1781961/no-job-for-a-rookie.html#ixzz13pvnVDsV

2010-10-28T23:20:00.001-04:00

A few reasons Republicans and Democrats say
Representative Vida Miller
is the BEST choice to serve us in the Statehouse.

The TRUTH about Representative Vida Miller’s service:
• She has consistently voted AGAINST raising taxes –
Supported the largest tax cut in our State’s history
• Recognized leader in government reform and transparency
• Has fought for our community to fund schools, libraries,
pave roads and community projects
• Has been recognized as a leader in Columbia by business,
conservation and education groups
• Has owned a business and a home in our community
for over 30 years
• Is the voice of leadership and experience.
Vida stands up to the “status quo” in Columbia on
behalf of the citizens of SC House District 108.
• Has a record of fighting for senior citizens
and understands the issues many face

Don’t be fooled by misleading negative ads and mailouts!
Vida Miller has kept her focus on the issues that matter most to hard-working families in our community; recruiting jobs, cutting taxes, reforming state government and improving education.
She puts the people first – not politics.

Post and Courier Endorses Miller Today

2010-10-28T12:01:00.001-04:00

Breaking News: Miller Receives POST & COURIER Endorsement
Miller in District 108
Vida Miller, known for her commitments to land conservation and constituent service, deserves an eighth term from House District 108. Chair of the General Assembly's Women's Caucus, she represents one of the state's largest geographic districts, stretching from Georgetown County southward to Charleston County, including McClellanville and Awendaw. An art gallery owner, the Democrat understands small businesses' challenges in these hard times. She rightly pushes for economic development that includes rural areas afflicted with severe unemployment.
The recent recipient of the S.C. House Leadership Award from the Conservation Voters of South Carolina lists the completion of upgrades to U.S. Hwy. 521 and federal funding for dredging of the Georgetown port as top priorities -- and accurately hails her ability to serve as a full-time legislator who has earned "a seat at the table in Columbia."

Some of Vida's Legislative Accomplishments

2010-10-23T10:16:00.003-04:00

A History of Legislative Success.
Vida Miller is working hard… and making a positive difference for the people of House District 108 and all of South Carolina. Her solid record of accomplishments includes:

Tax Increment Financing Act. This legislation allows counties and municipalities to enter into redevelopment projects without raising local taxes, and gives local school boards and other governments an “opt-in, opt-out” status allowing them to participate in tax revenue negotiations. Passed. (This innovative legislation was spotlighted in a Wall Street Journal news story.)

Optional postponement of jury duty for school employees. This amendment allows school employees who have direct contact with students to postpone jury duty if it interferes with critical class time. This measure not only means a savings to the school district it also keeps teachers where they are needed -- in the classroom.

Real Estate Transfer Fees Bill. This legislation allowed Georgetown County to keep more than $2 million in collected fees slated to be returned to the State Treasurer’s General Fund. This money was used to purchase recreational property for public use throughout the county, such as Morse Landing in Murrell’s Inlet.

School District Administrators Retaining Teacher Status. This amendment to the budget bill prevents administrators from maintaining administrative status once they leave or are removed from an administrative position.

Governor’s Institute of Reading. This amendment to the budget bill awarded competitive grants to school districts for designing and providing a comprehensive approach to reading instruction based on best practice, and provides teachers with professional development and support for implementing best practices.

Better representation. Introduced successful legislation to give Georgetown County legislative representation on the Waccamaw Regional Council of Governments. Vida Miller’s efforts also led to the opening of the first Georgetown County Legislative Delegation Office bringing access to state agencies and services.

Pilot Paving Program. Fought for the Pilot Paving Program and as a result we were able to pave more roads in the area including Litchfield Country Club, Hagley and Tiller Road, as well as roads in the City and western portion of the county. This conceptual program has been embraced by county council and is being utilized throughout the county

Tax Relief. Vida introduced the 2005 Property Tax Relief legislation which passed and was vetoed by Gov. Sanford. This legislation was incorporated into the property tax relief law which passed last year. She supported increasing the Homestead Exemption to $50,000. , along with numerous tax relief incentives.

Getting our Fair Share.
In addition to her many legislative accomplishments, Vida Miller has worked hard to secure our fair share of state funds for needed local services and projects. They include:

Widening and upgrades of US-521. This project, as well as the South Causeway reconfiguration, had previously been lowered on the SCDOT list of priorities. In 1996, the delegation secured $10 million to start purchasing rights-of-ways on US-521, and in less than three years the project was complete, with additional funding secured for the continuation. The upgrades at South Causeway and the light at North Litchfield are completed, as well as, resurfacing for the Murrell’s Inlet and Pawley’s . More than $100 million in state and federal funds have been secured for Georgetown County since 1997 for highway improvements. Over 16 million for our area in federal dollars for GSATS projects including the Sandy Island reconfiguration,

Sampit River and Rice Museum. Both of these projects are now becoming a reality. Miller was successful in her effort to secure $250,000 for the Rice Museum, which gave the museum needed matching funds. She also secured $150,000 for Sampit River Landing, also introduced the resolution naming the Sampit Landing after Gov. Carroll Campbell.

Educational Facilities Funding
Vida Miller helped secure $750,000 from the state, which was matched by county council, to complete Georgetown Campus renovations. Passage of the Education Construction Bill brought more than $10 million back to Georgetown County School District. Helped secure funding to open the Coastal Carolina Campus at Litchfield and $5 million for Clemson University's Baruch Institute on Coastal Ecology and Forest Science.

Highway 17 Beautification Projects. Secured funding for Highway 17 beautification for area extending from Litchfield to the county line and for Pawleys North and South Causeways areas along with $1.2 million in beach renourishment funds for Pawley’s Island

State grants for improvements to Luther Alston Park, Wachesaw Park, Willowbank Park, City of Georgetown tennis courts, Pawley's Island Day Care, Pole Yard Landing, Pawley's Island (North end) Boat Landing, Hagley Landing. Over $450,000 secured for Parkersville Multigenerational Center.

Protecting our representation. Served as Chairman of GSATS; Worked to give Georgetown County representation on the SCDOT Highway Commission and keep Circuit Court seat in Georgetown County.

Vote for Experience

2010-10-23T10:10:00.001-04:00

A few reasons voters say
Vida Miller is the BEST choice to serve us.
Age 60
Address Pawleys Island
Occupation: Retailer, Grayman GalleryEducation: North Greenville College, Bob Jones University
Political experience: 6 1/2 years on Georgetown County School Board and 14 years in the South Carolina House of Representatives.Civic involvement: Georgetown County School Board 1988-94, Georgetown County Human Relations Council; Pawleys Island-Litchfield Merchants Association., Georgetown Co. League of Women Voters; Georgetown County Business and Professional Women; Rice Museum Cultural Division.; S.C. School Boards Association; Georgetown County Legislative Delegation; House Democratic Caucus; Education & Public Works Commission; Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs Commission; S.C. Dept. of Transportation Road Enhancement Committee; S.C. Dept. of Transportation Minority Business Committee; Invitations and Memorial Resolutions Committee; Waccamaw Regional Planning Commission; GSATS [Grand Strand Area Transportation Study Committee]; National Foundation of Women Legislators; Governor's Middle School Task Force; Palmetto Pride; Tourism Caucus; First StepsMilitary: None
Recognition: S.C. School Boards Association Outstanding Legislator of the Year, 1999 and 2000; Georgetown County Business and Professional Women - Career Woman of the Year, 2002-03; Sierra Club Legislator of the Year, 2003-04 S.C. School Counselors Legislative Award, 2006; Coastal Business Magazine's Award for 30 Most Powerful Women in Horry and Georgetown Counties., 2005 and 2006, Conservation Voters House Leadership Award 2010 – Chairperson SC General Assembly Women’s Caucus
Endorsed by the National Rifle Association

Vida has been a homeowner and successful business person in this area for over 30 years.

Miller attends LWV Forum- opponent declines

2010-10-20T09:14:00.001-04:00

Tuesday, Oct. 19, 2010
Budget tops Georgetown school concerns
Candidates for Georgetown board debate cuts, testing
By Gina Vasselli - gvasselli@thesunnews.com

GEORGETOWN -- Topics such as the budget and standardized testing were on the list Monday night when candidates for the Georgetown County School Board were questioned about what they would do for the school district.
The Georgetown League of Women Voters' candidate forum was planned for candidates in all contested races in Georgetown, but according to league rules it prohibited incumbent Democrat Vida Miller, who attended, from participating because Kevin Ryan, her Republican challenger for S.C. House Seat 108, did not attend as the group required.
Instead, the five school board candidates had the stage to themselves. One of the biggest issues school board members will have to tackle, if elected, is the district's budget.Read more: http://www.thesunnews.com/2010/10/19/1761354/budget-tops-school-list.html#ixzz12u8dCR1W

Sun News on Miller and Ryan

2010-10-18T17:40:00.004-04:00

Monday, Oct. 18, 2010
Georgetown house seat hopefuls differ on strategy
GOP challenger takes on incumbent Miller
By Gina Vasselli -The Sun News

When it comes to bringing jobs to the area, the candidates vying to represent South Carolina House District 108 are touting different strategies.
Incumbent Vida Miller, D-Pawleys Island, said she will use her established relationships with companies and economic development organizations, while Republican challenger Kevin Ryan said he will focus on specific projects, like the expansion of S.C. 521, to attract industries.
Unemployment in the district, which includes the shoreline of Georgetown and part of Charleston counties, is about 10 percent, according to August 2010 figures.
KEVIN RYAN
Party Republican
Age 22
Address Pawleys Island
Occupation Graduate student, College of Charleston, master's in public administration
Education Bachelor's in political science, Clemson University
Political experience Georgetown County GOP Executive Committee
Civic involvement No answer
Military No answer
E-mail/ website www.ryanforhouse.com
Question How would you protect the coastal environment, one of the district's biggest attractions?
Answer As I have been born and raised in this unique coastal district, I understand that our natural resources provide for much of our high quality of living. Thriving natural resources provide economic benefit as well. Because of declining revenues and a poorly conducted state budgeting process, agencies such as the Department of Natural Resources, Department of Health and Environmental Control and State Conservation Bank have been forced to cut programs designed to protect our coastal environment and resources. I will fight constantly for the protection our natural resources by ensuring that these agencies are funded adequately to carry out their missions. I plan to propose or support legislation that would establish a base annual funding for at least 275 DNR law enforcement officers, increase opportunities for citizen participation in wildlife and marine fisheries management, and ensure that the State Conservation Bank is not raided to make up for budget shortfalls in other agencies.
Q. What would you do to ensure that, through these tough economic times, the needs of the area that could be helped by the state government will be helped?
A. In these tough economic times, we are going to have to make tough choices to cut some programs and agencies that do not reflect the true role of state government. Instead of making across-the-board cuts which disproportionately affect some agencies, we need to closely examine each and every spending area and program then make targeted cuts. Our area desperately needs funding for infrastructure such as the Port of Georgetown and the completion of Highway 521 from Georgetown to Interstate 95 at Manning. I would support efforts to protect funding for areas such as law enforcement, education, and natural resource protection and de-fund programs which can be better handled by private or nonprofit organizations. To ensure that the needs of our area are met, it is time for some tough choices to be made in Columbia. Unlike many currently serving, I respect that it's the taxpayers' money and promise not to forget that. By making state government leaner, more efficient, and more accountable we can ensure that funding for essential programs and agencies are protected and the needs of our community are met.
Q. Why is it important for you to be elected to represent the area?
A. It is important for me to be elected to represent our community in the State House because it is time for some fresh, new ideas and some new faces in Columbia. Our legislature has repeatedly failed to make significant progress in resolving the problems facing our state and district. Our schools are failing miserably, people and businesses are struggling under burdensome tax policies, our natural resources are not being adequately protected, and the status quo politicians in Columbia seem to be lacking common sense. The people of this district and state deserve a state government that is accountable, efficient, and transparent. I am a conservative Republican who will support efforts and proposals to move our state forward and bring much needed reform to state government. I was born and raised in this community and appreciate the unparalleled quality of life that we enjoy. With the knowledge and experience to affect positive changes for the people of District 108, I will work tirelessly to support and promote our conservative values in Columbia.

VIDA MILLER
Party Democrat
Age 60
Address Pawleys Island
Occupation Retailer, Grayman Gallery
Education North Greenville College, Bob Jones University
Political experience 6 1/2 years on Georgetown County School Board and 14 years in the South Carolina House of Representatives
Civic involvement Georgetown County School Board 1988-94, Georgetown County Human Relations Council; Pawleys Island-Litchfield Merchants Association., Georgetown Co. League of Women Voters; Georgetown County Business and Professional Women; Rice Museum Cultural Division.; S.C. School Boards Association; Georgetown County Legislative Delegation; House Democratic Caucus; Education & Public Works Commission; Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs Commission; S.C. Dept. of Transportation Road Enhancement Committee; S.C. Dept. of Transportation Minority Business Committee; Invitations and Memorial Resolutions Committee; Waccamaw Regional Planning Commission; GSATS [Grand Strand Area Transportation Study Committee]; National Foundation of Women Legislators; Governor's Middle School Task Force; Palmetto Pride; Tourism Caucus; First Steps
Military None
E-mail/ website vida@vidamiller.com; www.vidamiller.com
Question How would you protect the coastal environment, one of the district's biggest attractions?
Answer Protecting our natural resources has always been a priority for me. I have a proven record of working with environmental groups as well as the business community to ensure we maintain a balance of growth and development that is in harmony with our coastal environment. I will continue to work toward attracting jobs that are environmentally friendly, educate our communities on the value of our environment , as well as, support statewide legislation and local ordinances that help preserve and protect our most valuable resource.
Q. What would you do to ensure that, thorough these tough economic times, the needs of the area that could be helped by the state government will be helped?
A. I've been proud to lead the fight for government reform - for greater efficiency and accountability - and will continue to do so. (Some of the reforms I've pushed for include implementing spending caps, eliminating the Secretary of State's Office and putting its duties under the Executive branch, and making the Superintendent of Education an appointed position rather than an elected one.)
In addition I've led the fight for government transparency, and sponsored bills to require legislators' votes to be cast on the record and school districts' finances to be posted on their Web sites. These measures would impose greater accountability and ensure public officials are putting their constituents' interests ahead of their own interests... and ahead of any political considerations.
If we're to truly meet the challenges presented by a trying economy, we must reform government so that it works better for the people... so that it is more efficient, more accountable, and more responsive to citizens' needs. I will continue to be accessible and responsive to constituent concerns. As a state representative, we have the ability to contact state agencies on behalf of citizens to help resolve issues and concerns, many times without additional funding. My record shows that I have always supported legislation and funding that protects the safety and welfare of our communities, schools and health care issues
Q. Why is it important for you to be elected to represent the area?
A. It is important that our area have someone is in office who understands our budget, who works well with state agencies and local government, who works across party lines for the benefit of the district, who has the seniority and job experience to be effective and who is willing to take on the tough issues that face our communities and state.
Both candidates will have to deal with the still-recovering economy, said Wayne Gregory, Georgetown County economic development director. Gregory said generating projects will be a key to bringing jobs to the area.
"We have to continue to be aggressive about working with companies ... and take advantage of sectors we have the potential to be successful in," Gregory said.
Vida Miller said she has "connections in place that are working on bringing jobs to the area."
For example, she said, the Waccamaw Regional Council of Governments, of which she is a member, will have "some good news coming ... very soon."
Ryan said the area will be in a much better position to attract new companies if it has good roads, ports and other necessities in place, like an expanded U.S. 521 and a port that's at its intended depth.
"If we don't have a way to get goods and products in and out of the area, [companies] look at other areas that do have that infrastructure in place," he said.
Raising awareness of the need for those projects is important for getting the highway expanded and the Georgetown port dredged, he said.
"Make people aware of the problems and how easy of a problem it is to solve," Ryan said of his strategy. "And apply pressure" to federal legislators for South Carolina.
He also said changing the way the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers funds projects is "worth exploring."
Incumbent Miller said the Georgetown port is an important asset and she's working with federal officials to get money for it.
Ryan said it is also important for the area to keep the companies and jobs it has, and he would work to make sure taxes and fees for businesses aren't raised in an attempt to balance the state's budget.
"This is not the climate to be doing that in," he said.
Miller said because she is a small-business owner herself, she knows all about the problems business people face and would also work to increase incentives and tax breaks for businesses.
"I have supported a pro-business, economic-development-friendly agenda for 14 years," Vida Miller said.

"Paint it Forward" for Tidelands Hospice

2010-10-13T17:59:00.001-04:00

Pawleys Island artist Sara Credito has designed a program with the Cultural Council of Georgetown County to raise funds and awareness for Tidelands Hospice. The program, entitled "Paint It Forward" after the philosophy demonstrated in the film "Pay It Forward," was designed to teach both adults and young people that a simple act of artistic kindness can lift the spirits of people in need, and help raise funds necessary to run an important organization like Tidelands Hospice.
Participants, including several local notables and area youth, will each be given a heart-shaped bottle and glass painting supplies. Artist Credito has donated all of these, as well as her time as instructor.
Adults who will participate in "Paint It Forward" will be Rep. Vida Miller, County Administrator Sel Hemingway, County Sheriff Lane Cribb, one of the SC Republican party leaders, Jill Kelso, County Commissioner Ron Charlton, Executive Director of the Cultural Council R. Scott Jacob, Chair of the Democrat Party of Georgetown County Nancy Kohlman, historian Nell Morris Cribb, Georgetown Presbyterian Music Director Thom Martin, Executive Chef of Bistro 217 Adam Kirby, local businesswoman Michelle Casinotti, arts impresario Lee Padgett, expert historical refinisher Nick Oliver and others.
The group will work on this special project at the Cultural Council’s studio/classroom on Thursday, October 14, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. The finished products will be featured at a fundraising event for the Tidelands Hospice on November 11, 2010.

MILLER RECEIVES HIGH SCORE FROM SC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

2010-10-11T20:14:00.003-04:00

SC State Representative Miller receives high scores from the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce on the following Scorecard votes. Miller's total score of 93 shows her support and advocacy of the business community of local communities and the state of SC.
Employment Security Commission Reform: H 4303 - The House placed disqualification parameters on unemployment benefits payouts. Miller - Yes
State Attorney Fees: S186 - Controls attorney fees in state initiated actions, limiting the fee based on one time expended at a reasonable rate. Miller- Yes
Sunset Review Commission: H 3192 - Calls for a sunset review division of the SC Legislative Audit Council to evaluate programs for state agencies. Miller- Yes
Secretary of State Restructuring: H 4475 - A Joint Resolution to make of the office of Secretary of State a position appointed by the Governor, rather than an elected position. Miller- Yes
Union Dues: H 3736 - Would have made it unlawful for union dues to be deducted from an employee's wages without authorization from the employee. Miller- Yes
Tort Reform: H 3489 - A comprehensive tort reform bill that placed caps on punitive
damages. Miller- Yes
Economic Development: H 4478 - Includes a port tax credit, revamping the endowed chairs program and extending fee-in-lieu agreements for manufacturing property. Miller- Yes
Secret Ballot: H 3305 - Constitutional amendment to protect the rights of workers to cast secret ballots in union elections. Miller- Yes
General Reserve Fund: H 3396 - The House adopted a conference committee report to increase the state's general reserve fund from 3% to 5%. Miller- Yes
Permit Extensions: H 4445 - The House concurred with Senate amendments to extend permits affecting the development of real property. Miller-Yes
Cigarette Tax: H3584 -The General Assembly passed a 50 cent increase to the state's cigarette tax, which is expected to generate $ 135 million annually. Gov. Sanford vetoed the increase the House overrode the veto. Miller- Yes
Spending Limits: S 2 - This legislation lines the state's spending to CPI plus population growth. Miller-Yes
Technical College Funding: Veto 19 - Gov. Sanford vetoed the entire operation funding for the SC Technical College System, the agency responsible for increasing the employability of SC. The House overrode the veto by a vote of 116-1. Miller- Yes
Manufacturers' Retention and Growth Fund: S 1066 - The House moved to continue the legislation designed to provide incentives for small and medium manufacturers in SC. 64-35. Miller-No

Thank you.

2010-10-10T12:08:00.003-04:00

A special “thank you” .
Thank you for the outpouring of support I have received over the past couple of weeks, as your mailboxes have been filled with negative
“attack” mailings from my opponent.
Whenever a candidate for elected office lacks the proper qualifications, they often resort to “slinging mud.” And that is exactly
what is happening. Even worse, these attack mailings are false. They contain deliberate falsehoods designed to confuse voters about my proven record of fighting for the taxpayers, working to reform and restructure government
and always placing our community’s interests above all else.
While it would have been easy for me to respond in-kind, your words of
encouragement have inspired me to remain positive and focused on the issues.
Our community wants and deserves a positive issue oriented campaign and that

is exactly what you will get from me. Thank you again, Vida Miller

Miller receives NRA Endorsement

2010-10-10T11:58:00.004-04:00

National Rifle Association Endorsement
*Vida Miller (D)
Grade: A
The 2010 elections are less than a month away, and NRA members will be deciding thousands of races. The NRA-Political Victory Fund (NRA-PVF -- NRA's Political Action Committee) has redesigned its website, http://www.nrapvf.org/ ,to make it more user-friendly and to provide you with the critical information you'll need to make informed decisions on Election Day, November 2nd.
Representative Vida Miller is a member of the SC House Sportsman Caucus and has fought to protect the rights of sportsmen and gun ownership in South Carolina.

Miller awarded CVSC House Leadership Award

2010-10-10T11:47:00.003-04:00

Rep. Vida Miller awarded House Leadership Award by

ConservationVoters of SC
Jimmy Chandler honored posthumously

The 2nd Annual Green Tie Luncheon of the bi-partisan Conservation Voters of SC was held last Wednesday in Columbia with over 400 in attendance. During the meeting, Rep. Vida Miller was awarded the House Leadership Award for her outstanding record on conservation issues.

In her early years at the State House, Miller scored a perfect 100 on the Sierra Club conservation scorecard. She led legislation to oppose the expansion of regulatory takings and enabled communities to protect their unique character. Her overriding concern for clean air and water were reflected in her votes to limit the spread of giant factory hog farms, to protect isolated wetlands, to uphold beachfront management and to limit nuclear waste burial at Barnwell. She also fought to protect funding for conservation trust funds, including the Heritage Trust and the Conservation Bank.

In recent years, Rep. Miller has focused her attention on energy, recognizing that renewable emery offers a mean to lower our dependence on foreign energy sources while creating jobs here in South Carolina. She has co-sponsored legislation to boost renewable energy efficiency, knowing that the money we invest in these energy sources stays in our state.

“I was honored to be recognized by this outstanding organization that promotes growth and economic development while advocating environmental protection,” said Rep. Miller. “It was also my honor to be recognized along with Jimmy Chandler, who received the Lifetime Conservation Achievement posthumously. Jimmy was a great friend and mentor and we owe much of what we enjoy today to his dedicated tireless efforts to protect our environment and natural resources”
Miller has received the endorsement of CVSC, which has endorsed both Republican and Democratic candidates.

Other honorees included Senator Chip Campsen (R) of Charleston and Representative Joan Brady (R) of Columbia and Mr. Harry Dalton.

Miller elected as Chair of SC General Assembly Womens Caucus

2010-10-10T11:40:00.002-04:00

Representative Vida Miller has been elected Chairwoman of the SC General Assembly Women's Caucus for the 2011-2013 General Session of the SC House of Representatives. Miller is a Lifetime Member of the Women's Caucus and has actively served in leadership positions for the past 14 years.

L-R in Photo

Rep. Debra Long, Rep. Laurie Funderburk

Rep. Shannon Erickson, and Rep. Vida Miller

Miller Receives Post and Courier Endorsement

2008-10-31T07:51:00.001-04:00

The Post and Courier
Charleston, SC, Friday October 31, 2008
S.C. House: Smith, Stavrinakis, Scarborough, Miller, Bailey

Five seats are contested for the S.C. House of Representatives on local ballots Tuesday. We urge voters to choose Steven Smith, Leon Stavrinakis, Wallace Scarborough, Vida Miller and George Bailey.

Democrat Vida Miller of Pawleys Island has earned a seventh term in District 108, which also includes northern Charleston County. She has served as an effective advocate for education, conservation, road funding and her constituents.
As chairperson of an education subcommittee, she knows from difficult experience that the state's system for funding public schools must be overhauled.
She persuasively argues for giving local governments and school boards more control of education budgets, while also assuring that sufficient state resources are available for poor counties and districts.

Miller receives major education award

2008-10-30T07:51:00.014-04:00

COLUMBIA - The Honorable Vida Miller, a member of the South Carolina House of Representatives, on Oct. 27 received the South Carolina School Boards Association (SCSBA) Champions for Public Education award for her support of public schools and students not only in Georgetown and surrounding counties, but statewide.

Rep. Miller was presented with the award Tuesday, Oct. 27, by SCSBA Advocacy Coordinator Duane Cooper at the J.B. Beck Administrative and Educational Center. (In photo at right, S.C. School Boards Association Advocacy Coordinator Duane Cooper, left, presents Rep. Vida Miller the Champions for Public Education award. At right is Dr. Crystal Ball O'Connor of the Greenville County School Board.)

Rep. Miller was nominated by the Georgetown County board for the award, which is presented quarterly to community residents, organizations or local businesses/industries whose support of and contributions to public education have significantly benefited the entire school district or public schools statewide. Nominations are open to the state's school boards and judged against the award's criteria to determine eligibility.

Also at the award presentation was Dr. Crystal Ball O'Connor of the Greenville County School Board. "Rep. Miller is one of the greatest leaders in education improvement in this state," said O'Connor. "She inspired me to run for the School Board in Greenville County when she told me that 'Educating students is critical to their success, as well as to the economic development and success of our state.' Ten years later, when parents and educators anywhere in the state have a concern about education, we count on her leadership to help find meaningful solutions. Rep. Miller understands the need to advance student achievement, and she keeps the needs of all our children close to her heart."

Miller backed by NRA

2008-10-26T07:48:00.000-04:00

Representative Vida Miller, has received the endorsement of the National Rifle Association Political Victory Fund. Miller, a member of the SC House Sportsman Caucus, also received the NRA-PVF endorsement in 2006 for her support of Second Amendment rights and sportsmans rights in South Carolina.

Miller has been a strong advocate for protecting sportsman and hunting rights and has supported key legislation that protects our Second Amendment rights.

A native South Carolinian, Rep. Miller has long supported the traditional values of our state’s sportsmen and responsible gun ownership along with programs involving youth development, firearms education, safety, and training.

The NRA Political Victory Fund (NRA-PVF) is NRA's political action committee. NRA-Political Victory Fund ranks political candidates—irrespective of party affiliation—based on voting records, public statements and their responses to an NRA-PVF questionnaire.

Miller has also been endorsed by the Conservation Voters of SC, the Coastal Realtors Association and business organizations representing District 108.

More: NRA-PVF

NEGATIVE CAMPAIGN ALERT

2008-10-24T10:39:00.000-04:00

NEGATIVE CAMPAIGN ALERT:
In recent week, voters in Georgetown and Charleston counties received political mailings from a special interest group (PAC) falsely attacking our Representative, Vida Miller. (This group, “SCRG”, is a “front” for libertarian extremists who want to divert our tax dollars AWAY from our public schools to give to their corporate education experiments instead. SCRG even recruited their own “puppet” candidate against Miller.)

Don’t be fooled! The sole purpose of this group -- financed by a New York multi-millionaire, Howard Rich -- is to mislead voters with false attacks and mudslinging in order to elect officeholders who will be his puppets. (They call the group “South Carolinians for Responsible Government” to mislead voters.)

Here are the facts: Vida Miller helped cut taxes by over $850 million in the last two years. She has helped lead efforts to reform government. She is a businesswoman who works to control spending and reduce the cost of government. And she helped cut $30 million in “pork” out of the state budget in 2008.

Vida Miller fights for the people of Georgetown, Waccamaw Neck, Awendaw and McClellanville - not the special interest groups or NYC multi-millionaires. That's why they have recruited their own candidate against her.

They are falsely attacking her because Vida Miller has been a consistent strong voice in favor of improving public education. They will try anything to replace her with their hand-picked puppet. But their negative campaign may backfire: Every time they attack her, voters will be reminded that its only because Vida Miller is fighting for the people of District 108... not the special interests!

You can help fight back against the special interest group which is trying to BUY our House seat. Warn your friends and neighbors about the deceptive, negative campaign they are paying for against Vida Miller, and remind them to VOTE on Tuesday, Nov. 4th (or in advance by absentee ballot.)

Sun News Endorsement

2008-10-22T06:41:00.001-04:00

SUN NEWS
Opinion
Sunday, Oct. 19, 2008
Return Miller, Edge, Barfield to S.C. House
Incumbents do well by their constituents

Facing the District 58 incumbent, Rep. Liston Barfield, R-Conway, is Fonzie Lewis, an Aynor Democrat with a good grasp of state legislative issues. Keying in on Barfield's sponsorship of a $100,000 state economic development grant to finance a Myrtle Beach visit by German dignitaries, Lewis says the incumbent has done too little to rein in wasteful spending. Barfield defends the grants as an investment in international tourism, which he and many others envision as the best way to grow Grand Strand tourism.
He and Lewis differ on budget priorities, education funding, health funding and other key issues. Individual voters will have to decide for themselves which view is correct. But because Barfield has served our communities well in the House, especially as a member of the budget-writing Ways and Means Committee, he receives the newspaper's recommendation.
In Georgetown County-based District 108, Democratic incumbent Rep. Vida Miller faces her strongest challenge yet from Jill Kelso, a businesswoman with a conservative vision of how legislative service ought to be. Kelso argues that because Miller is a member of the minority party in the House, she's not as effective as a Republican alternative could be.
Miller, however, makes a good case that party is less important a factor in the House than seniority and experience, and defends her record of accomplishment as a legislator. A businesswoman herself, she is no tax-and-spend liberal. And she's a stronger supporter of public education than Kelso appears to be. She's done a good job for her constituents and merits the chance to continue speaking for them in Columbia.
In House District 104, incumbent Rep. Tracy Edge, R-North Myrtle Beach, faces a spirited challenge from Constitution Party candidate Patricia Matthews of Longs. Matthews argues that business as usual in Columbia no longer works. The legislature, she said, should have done far more to abate illegal immigration, ensuring that their children don't attend public schools or use publicly funded health-care resources. She also objects to state-bonded indebtedness, dismissing as immaterial that legislators must balance the state's annual operating budget.
She's a good person who might, in time, develop into a good legislator. But Edge, a Ways and Means Committee member who works hard on the issues that matter most to our communities - transportation improvement, health care improvement and tourism growth - is a fine legislator. He garners The Sun News recommendation.

Safe Routes to Schools Awards $400,000.00

2008-10-10T20:41:00.003-04:00

Safe Routes to Schools Awards $400,000 to local schools through legislation introduced by Rep. Vida Miller. Waccamaw Elementary School and Georgetown Middle School have been selected to receive $200,000 each in Safe Routes to School funding. The awarding of funding was announced recently at the Grand Strand Area Transportation Study Committee meeting, chaired by Rep. Miller. Miller applauds the efforts of each of these schools along with the assistance of SC Department of Transportation, Waccamaw Regional Council of Government and the Georgetown County School District in applying for the funding.Representative Miller introduced the legislation creating South Carolina's SRTS Program and allowing access to the federal funding created by Congress in 2005. SRTS enables and encourages children, including those with disabilities, to safely walk and bicycle to and from school. SCDOT has created a SRTS office which will help administer grants to schools and communities promoting safe walking and bike paths to schools, safe havens for children and promotion of physical well being.SCDOT's Safe Routes to School Program assists schools and communities in the planning, development, and implementation of projects and activities that will improve safety and reduce traffic, fuel consumption, and air pollution in the vicinity of schools while promoting a healthy lifestyle for children and their parents. Selected schools will be required to design a comprehensive Safe Routes to School Plan specific to that school.Miller was selected by the SC Governor's Council on Physical Fitness to receive the Public Policy Award in 2006 based on the Safe Routes to School legislation she introduced. The legislation was endorsed by the SC Department of Health and Environmental Control and the SC Department of Transportation.Contact: Vida Miller Email: vida@vidamiller.com Cell: 340-7194

CUTLINE:Photo by Ray White/Georgetown County School District Celebrating the $400,000 Safe Routes to Schools Awards are, from left, Mark Hoeweler, Planning Director at the Waccamaw Regional Council of Governments; Vida Miller, Representative for South Carolina House Seat 108; Georgetown County School District Risk and Property Manager Kelly Kelley; GCSD Superintendent Dr. Randy Dozier; Chris Clark, GSATS Transportation Planner at the Waccamaw Regional Council of Governments; and GCSD Safety and Energy Associate David Adams

Roll Call Vote on Spending Legislation

2008-10-03T17:36:00.003-04:00

September 16, 2008

Representative Vida Miller
Post Office Box 3157
Pawleys Island, SC 29585

Dear Vida:

I hope that you have found some time to enjoy your family and some much needed rest in the off-session. Last year, I introduced the 2008 Spending Accountability Act. The legislation would have required all votes to go on the record that expended taxpayer dollars. It was introduced late in the session and did not have time for a vote.

This year, I am reintroducing the bill, but have expanded it for more accountability. The 2009 Spending Accountability Act will require votes on the record for the following:

All second readings.
Any amended third readings.
Each section of the budget.
Conference committee reports.

Requiring the most important decisions we make, our votes, to be on the record would allow for an increased level of public confidence and trust. Voting and making decisions that impact the citizens is the single most important responsibility we have. We, the General Assembly, should not be the ones to decide what should and should not go on the record. These votes belong to the citizens that will be impacted by these important decisions. I respectfully ask that you join this cause of requiring that these votes listed above be on the record.

Please contact me by Friday on my cell, 803-586-1354, if you are interested in signing on to this bill. I look forward to seeing and hearing from you soon.

My very best,

Nikki

jhm-NHaley-Sept-16-08-frm

CONSERVATION ENDORSEMENT

2008-09-30T08:15:00.004-04:00

REP. VIDA MILLER EARNS CONSERVATION ENDORSEMENT
September 28, 2008

(Columbia, SC) – Conservation Voters of South Carolina has endorsed Rep. Vida Miller as the best choice for conservation minded voters in the District 108 House race in Charleston and Georgetown Counties.

“Representative Vida Miller offers a sensible approach to conservation that voters in these counties expect from their elected leaders,” said Executive Director, Ann Timberlake. “Voters don’t care about party affiliation when it comes to issues like clean air and drinkable water. Vida supports investing in our working farms and forests to strengthen our economy and preserve the outdoor traditions that have made South Carolina a destination for tourists, new families and retirees.”

Miller has supported South Carolina’s landmark Conservation Bank – working with local governments and land trusts to promote land protection in the County. She also supported energy efficiency bills and the successful initiatives in 2007 to reform the Department of Transportation and to remove unlawful river shacks from public rivers and lakes.

Candidates earn Conservation Voters’ support through an endorsement process that includes an examination of the candidates’ records, questionnaire responses and interviews. “South Carolinians want elected officials who understand that communities need to be able to preserve their unique character and plan for the future. Representative Miller is committed to protecting both the special history and environment of District 108,” added Timberlake.

Since 2002, Conservation Voters has been turning traditional conservation values into state priorities. The independent bipartisan organization holds elected leaders accountable and publishes a biennial Conservation Scorecard. Conservation Voters endorsed 14 Republican and 16 Democratic candidates in the June primaries.

Miller appointed to Study Committee

2008-08-24T22:33:00.000-04:00

Representative Vida Miller has been appointed by The Honorable Bobby Harrell, Speaker of the SC House of Representatives to serve on the Delivery of Behavioral Health Care Services Study Committee.
The committee is composed of ten members of the SC General Assembly, of whom five must be members of the House appointed by the Speaker and five must be members of the Senate appointed by the President Pro Tempore of the Senate
The committee was created by the General Assembly to examine the delivery of behavioral care services in South Carolina. Many already overcrowded hospital emergency rooms have become the “safety net” or “provider of last resort” until psychiatric beds are available in the state. This situation stretches the resources of the hospital and reduces care for other patients with medical emergencies.
The delivery of services that are available to behavioral health care patients is fractured and disjointed and many patients have no place to go for the level of emergency care they or their loved ones need.
“I am honored to be appointed by the Speaker and look forward to serving on this committee in an effort to find a solution to this serious health care problem for our citizens”, Miller stated.

2008-08-14T05:24:00.001-04:00

Backpacks to Local Schools

2008-08-05T06:02:00.001-04:00

REPRESENTATIVE VIDA MILLER PARTNERS WITH THE OFFICE DEPOT FOUNDATION,
DISTRIBUTES BACKPACKS TO LOCAL SCHOOLS

Representative Vida Miller and The Office Depot Foundation are pleased to announce that student of House District 108 have been chosen to receive backpacks containing essential school supplies as part of the Foundation’s Eighth Annual National Backpack Program in partnership with the National Foundation for Women Legislators (NFWL).

“This is an extremely beneficial program,” said Vida Miller “I am honored to have the opportunity to present these backpacks to these deserving students. This donation will allow the children to start the new school year with important resources they need to be successful in the classroom. As SC’s Education Team Leader for the National Foundation for Women Legislators, I commend the Office Depot Foundation on its efforts to make children’s lives easier when it comes to having basic school supplies, which many of us take for granted.”

By the end of this year, Office Depot (NYSE: ODP) and the Office Depot Foundation will have given away nearly 1.8 million backpacks since the program began in 2001. For the fourth consecutive year, 300,000 backpacks are being donated across the United States and Canada.

The 2008 backpacks come in five different color schemes, blending orange, blue, red, purple, green and – for the first time – pink. Designed primarily to meet the needs of students in grades K-5, the backpacks feature two front pockets and wide, padded straps for comfort and support. Each backpack contains a pencil pouch containing essential back-to-school items - a ruler, four crayons, a glue stick, a pen, a pencil, a pencil sharpener and an eraser.

This summer Office Depot will provide the National Foundation for Women Legislators with more than 18,000 backpacks for distribution by women elected officials in all 50 states. Office Depot will also partner with the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America, the National Court Appointed Special Advocates Association (CASA), the Kids In Need Foundation, City Year, Teach for America, Nourish America and Feed The Children. These organizations focus on education, domestic abuse, national disaster relief and other vital issues and will assist in distributing backpacks to children across the country and internationally.

“Children who are poor or abused, or families who have suffered through a natural disaster do not need to worry about not having school supplies,” said Miller. “This is a wonderful program and I look forward to working with the Office Depot Foundation in the future on behalf of the National Foundation for Women Legislators.”

About the National Foundation For Women Legislators, Inc. (NFWL)
Through annual educational and networking events, the National Foundation for Women Legislators supports women legislators from all levels of governance. As a non-profit, non-partisan organization, NFWL does not take ideological positions on public policy issues, but rather serves as a forum for women legislators to be empowered through information and experience.

About the Office Depot Foundation
The Office Depot Foundation is an independent foundation that serves as the primary charitable giving arm of Office Depot. In keeping with its mission, Listen Learn Care, the Foundation strives to make a positive impact on many lives in many communities around the world. The Foundation supports a variety of programs that enhance the quality of life for children, strengthen communities, encourage local and global economic growth, and empower schools and non-profit organizations. It also provides support when disasters strike - doing what it can not only to speed the process of rebuilding, but also to mitigate the impact of future disasters. For more information about the Office Depot Foundation, visit www.officedepotfoundation.org.
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