Editor’s Notes:
1. The Article referred to below regards “Commissioner Retaliation Brings ANOTHER Federal Lawsuit Down on Cleveland County” published May 4, 2018. Scroll back a few and read it again.
2. “Satirical Journalism” refers to my use of “Massa Eddie” or just “Massa” in reference to Commissioner Chairman Eddie Holbrook in this and other articles. “Satire” is a technique employed by writers to expose and criticize foolishness and corruption of an individual or a society by using humor, irony, exaggeration or ridicule. My use of Massa Eddie or Massa to describe Commissioner Holbrook, in my opinion, is totally appropriate. And credible. No offense is meant by the word “Massa” and “Plantation Politics” being associated with the days of slavery. That totally fits Massa Eddie’s appropriate description in his tactics and actions in office and in his present campaign for re-election. If anybody is offended, don’t get offended at me for telling it like it is. Get offended at Commissioner Eddie Holbrook. If you have voted for Massa Eddie or intend to, get offended at yourself for being so foolish.
Rev. Murphy’s Emailed Comment:
Robert,
I wish to comment on your most recent article as to give more details pertinent to the subject matter. Attached to this email is a clause taken directly from the settlement agreement that I signed during settlement last year. As you can see, the terms for which I settled the lawsuit specifically stated that the amount of the settlement would not be disclosed. My purpose for non-disclosure of the amount was that it was only a fraction of the amount that would have been awarded from a jury trial. To my surprise, The Star colluded with the county and illegally published an article about the settlement. Cleveland County risked another lawsuit for the sole purpose of discrediting the allegations I presented. I was also lead to believe that disciplinary actions would be brought against managers who attempted to force me out of preaching. I am presenting this with the hope that more people will accept your satirical journalism as credible. Citizens should also be aware that the check for settlement was received more than a month after it was written due to the county trying to pressure me into waiving the “not confidential” clause in agreement. The Cleveland County Commissioners not only had to approve this agreement, but also had to approve violating its content.