2024 S.C. Press Association Awards Presentation (Part B)

SHORT STORY

DAILY 7,000-15,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Terri Richardson The Sun News

Eleanor Nash The Sun News

SHORT STORY

DAILY 7,000-15,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Mary Dimitrov The Island Packet When you see a viral video and wonder “Did I see what I think I just saw?” this is the sort of follow-up you want.

Quick, factual, fun and informative. Plus it debunks the video without upsetting those who are convinced otherwise.

OBITUARY

WEEKLY UNDER 3,000 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Al Dozier Lexington County Chronicle

Vanessa Brewer-Tyson Pageland Progressive-Journal

Serving Barnwell County and its neighbors since 1852

OBITUARY

VOLUME 147, NO. 6

WEDNESDAY, MAY 31, 2023

2 SECTIONS / 20 PAGES / $1

Alma Battle exemplified hope, faith, love, & Blue Devil pride

WEEKLY UNDER 3,000 DIVISION

Jonathan Vickery Publisher jvickery@thepeoplesentinel.com

A

FIRST PLACEGraduation excitement

Jonathan Vickery The People-Sentinel

Blackville & Williston photos by: Alexandra Whitbeck / Reporter Barnwell High School photos by: Jonathan Vickery / Publisher

Barnwell High, Blackville-Hilda High, and Williston-Elko High schools held their 2023 graduation ceremonies on Friday, May 26.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Colby Baker proudly holds his diploma from WillistonElko High School; Enrique Fredrick dances across the stage after receiving his diploma at Blackville-Hilda High School; Seneca Baines takes a selfie with Barnwell District 45 Superintendent Dr. Crissie Stapleton while Barnwell High Principal Franklin McCormack smiles in the background.

More photos on pages B1-4.

l m a B a t t l e wa s a n inspiration to many Williston-Elko students and families over the years.

The Barnwell resident dedicated over 30 years to Williston School District 29 (now part of the Barnwell County Consolidated School District) as a secretary, athletic gate keeper, and Save the Children grandmother. The Blue Devil for life passed away on May 21 at the age of 76 following a brave battle with cancer.

“Ms. Battle exemplified hope, faith, loyalty, inclusivity, and pride. She was a dedicated and servant-leader to the Blue Devil family up until the time that God called her home.

Although life threw her a curve ball, her faith never wavered, her service to our district was never interrupted, and her smile never turned into a frown. To know her was to know love, joy, service, and happiness,” said BCCSD Interim Superintendent Dr. Marcella Shaw.

Ann Widener said Battle was “the face of Williston-Elko” while Vivian Reed Dicks called her “a legend in the Williston community” who was always willing to help.

“The gym, football field, and schools were her life. She was happiest when she was with the children, teachers, and family members. Ms. Battle

Alma Battle wearing blue for her favorite Blue Devils.

“Ms. Alma exemplified hope, faith, loyalty, inclusivity, and pride.

To know her was to know love, joy, service, and happiness.” BCCSD Interim Superintendent Dr. Marcella Shaw loved unconditionally. She was soft spoken, funny, and full of interesting stories,” said friend Vickie Benjamin.

Battle impacted many lives o ve r t h e ye a r s , i n c l u d i n g hundreds of children.

See ALMA, 10A

Memorial Day: Honoring their sacrifices Beautifully written. Quotes are well chosen and paint a picture of the woman Battle was.

Alexandra Whitbeck Reporter reporter@thepeoplesentinel.com

stationed in Quam, in the Waygal district of Afghanistan's far eastern Nuristan province,” said LTC Brown.

OBITUARY

WEEKLY 3,000-6,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Robert Howey The Lancaster News

Hannah Strong Oskin The Horry Independent

Saturday-Sunday, October 21-22, 2023 THE LANCASTER NEWS A3

McCants remembered for strong faith, support of officers

BY ROBERT HOWEY CORRESPONDENT

Myra McCants was known as a str ong woman, who shouldered her share of personal tragedy, but kept a tough upper lip with an enduring faith.

Over the course of her life, McCants lost her husband, Dale, and father, William “Doc” Marion Estridge, within hours.

Dale died in a 1978 industrial accident and her father, a well-known Lancaster city policeman, died a short time later at her home.

“Their funerals were a day apart,” said Myra’s brother, William “Bill” Estridge.

Myra, 79, died Oct. 6, leaving a lasting legacy of handling tragedy.

Later in her life, Myra

IVA DRAKEFORD

lost her son, Brent, a York County deputy who was shot and killed following a Rock Hill traffic stop in 1992.

Myra advocated for justice for Brent and became a staunch supporter of law

Myra McCants, mother of Brent McCants, holds a sign in 2017 honoring her son when a section of Dave Lyle Boulevard in Rock Hill was renamed for him. Brent was killed in the line of duty there in file photo 1992.

In July 2018, Myra McCants gave Tommy Pope a breeding pair of Buff Silkie chickens for his birthday. file photo From left are Kim and Tommy Pope, McCants and Kaylen Pope. Tommy Pope prosecuted the men who enforcement.

“Myra was such a sweet murdered her son, Brent McCants. soul,” Lancaster County ciated. She called and “She was faithful about Sheriff Barry Faile said. stayed in touch. that.”

“She was very generous “During Law EnforceFaile said he admired and she wanted the law ment Week each year, she how she handled the tragenforcement community would send a cake out edy in her life. to know they were appre- to our office,” Faile said.

“To have gone through

HOWARD MICKLE

so much, Myra was the happiest person I knew,” Faile said. “She had a strong faith and leaned on the good Lord.”

Four years before Brent’s death, Myra’s son, Billy Dale, was involved in a car wreck, which left him confined to a wheelchair with severe head trauma. Myra cared for Billy Dale, with him often at her side, until she could no longer provide that care. He’s now in a special facility in Ridgeway.

“Myra often brought Billy Dale out to our office and we would visit them,” Faile said. “We enjoyed those visits and her sharing her love for her family.”

Kathy Estridge, Bill’s wife, said Myra was a “wonderful person.”

SEE MCCANTS/PAGE A4

VINCENT S. WEBB

OBITUARY

WEEKLY 3,000-6,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Hannah Strong Oskin and Charles D. Perry Myrtle Beach Herald Very well written summary of a community journalist’s life and impact, capturing the spirit as well as the facts of the man without forgetting the practical information related to his death and funeral. Stood out among many other strong entries.

OBITUARY

WEEKLY OVER 6,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Samantha Winn

Hannah Wade

The Post and Courier North Augusta/ The Star

The Post and Courier Columbia/ Free Times

OBITUARY

WEEKLY OVER 6,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Andy Brack Charleston City Paper Well written, with concise information without feeling over-emotional.

OBITUARY

DAILY UNDER 7,000 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Bill Bengtson Aiken Standard

Matthew Robertson Morning News

OBITUARY

DAILY UNDER 7,000 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Bryn Eddy The Sumter Item

TUESDAY, AUGUST 22, 2023

| Serving South Carolina since October 15, 1894

Freed USC Sumter professor unve and poet remembered supp as brilliant, fiery by friends and family and a MICHELE REESE • 1973 - 2023

BY BRYN EDDY bryn@theitem.com Poetry can find the common thread among seemingly unrelated topics. It stitches together parts of the human experience into lyrical linens, so to speak — some short, some long, some rhyming, some not.

Sumter poet Michele Reese sewed together strawberry picking and polymer manufacturing, swim practice and growing up as a person of color, and she did this, this written threading of themes and such, for decades.

She died in her home on July 27. She was born in Texas on Jan. 17, 1973, but grew up in Parkersburg, West Virginia,

and moved to Sumter in 2002 for her career at the University of South Carolina Sumter as an English professor.

REESE As a writer, dancer, teacher, mom, coach, Catholic, athlete, Daughter of the American Revolution and advocate for women and minority rights, Reese was unapologetically into what she was into, her opinions seldom left up to interpretation.

She had pride but the good kind of pride and was brilliant, her ex-husband and father to

SEE REESE, PAGE A6

Great descriptors. This obit opens as poetically as the woman it describes. Excellent quotes. Good work weaving the information together in such a way that it reflects her personality. This makes me wish I had met her.

BY KEVIN FREKING Associated Press

WASHINGTON a group known as have unveiled a lis want included in a sure to keep the fe ning after the end It's a smorgasbo Democratic-contro White House, sign House Speaker Ke next month to get without alienating conference.

Historically, me Caucus rarely sup bills to keep the go Republicans holdi ty in the House, th age over the agend

As Sum

OBITUARY

DAILY 7,500-15,500 & OVER 15,500 DIVISIONS COMBINED

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Joanna Johnson Herald-Journal

Parker Milner The Post and Courier

OBITUARY

DAILY 7,500-15,500 & OVER 15,500 DIVISIONS COMBINED

FIRST PLACE Bob Montgomery Herald-Journal Great lead and a reporting effort that let us hear about Rudy from many people. Nicely done.

COLUMN OR EDITORIAL WRITING

ASSOCIATE & INDIVIDUAL MEMBER DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Aïda Rogers

Aïda Rogers

COLUMN OR EDITORIAL WRITING

ASSOCIATE & INDIVIDUAL MEMBER DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Kenton Makin

A well written perspective about a South Carolina founding father that few want to face.

COLUMN WRITING

WEEKLY UNDER 3,000 & 3,000-6,500 DIVISIONS COMBINED

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Melanie Knight The Lancaster News TLNWeekend

Misty Jo Neilson The Daniel Island News

A10 THE LANCASTER NEWS Saturday-Sunday, June 17-18, 2023

Saturday-Sunday, November 19-20, 2022 THE LANCASTER NEWS A11

FOOD & FUN

Family pizza tradition highlights dad’s qualities W

e don’t have many then play along and order family traditions, a pizza we could make. but we do share a He’d also pretend he love of pizza. It is couldn’t hear us in the only vacation the kitchen as we activity that we scrambled around, can all agree on tripping over — seeking out the each other while best pizza parlor making the pizza. when we are out While I knew of town. this was just for While everyone fun, my son took Melanie else is trying his role very Knight expensive and seriously. Once we exotic food, got the pizza in the we are asking locals oven, he’d go back into the for a good pizza place dining room and let Dad recommendation. So know that it would be a now we have a list of few more minutes and ask our favorite pizza places if he needed anything. in Key West, the Outer When the pizza was Banks and New Orleans. ready to be served, he’d Every time we find a bring out a slice on a plate. delicious spot, it’s typically Then he’d wait and watch a family-owned place. We as Dad took his first bite. used to have a favorite Then he’d ask, “How is the at Myrtle Beach, but the food?” When Dad gave a restaurant changed hands thumbs-up, he’d run back and the quality went down. to the kitchen and whisper Sometimes the pizza is to me, “he likes it,” and good, but the condiments we’d giggle and high-five. are awesome and elevate When Dad was done the whole experience, eating, Mason would clear like when we tried chili the plate and then bring oil for the first time at a the check. Dad always said pizza place in London over to keep the change. spring break.

While it may seem like Pizza is such a staple a small thing, the role at our house that when my husband Tommie my youngest son was played in this pretend around 4 years old, we restaurant was huge. He used to pretend we ran could have dragged his a pizza place. It was feet and complained the called “M&M’s Pizza” for whole time, but he didn’t.

Melanie and Mason. It He could have ignored is incredible how much our attempts to run a children pay attention to pretend restaurant, broke the world around them. I’d character and just walked let my son lead and “run” into the kitchen like he the restaurant. lived there, but he didn’t.

He’d set the table, He also could have huffed then welcome Dad to the and puffed because the restaurant and “seat” him pizza was “OK” and not at the dinner table. He from a real restaurant, was very professional and instead he acted like it never broke character. was the best pizza he’d He’d take the drink order ever had. He also could (water, no lemon) and have refused to pay the then bring the drink. He’d bill, instead he chose to take the pizza order. Dad be a big tipper. It’s little would always ask what moments like this that kinds of pizza we had, make you realize what a

O’Brien earns 4th highest Lions award

BY JOY KOZIOL WAXHAW NC LIONS CLUB

Lancaster resident Susan O’Brien with the Waxhaw NC Lions Club was awarded the International President’s Certification of Appreciation in recognition of distinguished achieve-

I

have never understood the FOUR SQUARE PIES Bible story of the prodigal son. I always felt that it 24-32 servings was so unfair that the son • 2 boxes of pie crust (4 who followed individual pie shells) the rules and Cherry Pie worked hard • 21-ounce can cherry pie was overlooked filling Apple Pie and not A10 THE LANCASTER NEWS Saturday-Sunday, July 22-23, 2023 • 21-ounce can apple pie celebrated like filling his lame loser • ½ teaspoon nutmeg brother. That • ½ teaspoon cinnamon all changed for • ½ teaspoon allspice me a couple of MELANIE • ½ teaspoon almond KNIGHT years ago. extract It was the FOOD & FUN Pumpkin Pie morning of • 15-ounce can pumpkin Christmas Eve and I got up puree You’ve heard of three square meals, well, here’s Four Square Pies! early, had my cup of coffee, • 2 eggs, lightly beaten While it takes a while to mix up all four pie ingredients, the beaubundled up in some warm • 15-ounce can sweetened ty is that you only have to bake one time. clothes and took a walk with condensed milk • 1 tablespoon pumpkin my two dogs down to the pie spice creek while my family slept. photos courtesy of Melanie Knight • 1 teaspoon vanilla We have two rescue dogs.

Colt is a chocolate Lab/AustraPecan Pie Colt is a gorgeous chocolate Melanie Knight grew up with Barbies woman, especially one lian shepherd mix the Knights • ½ cup packed brown Lab/Australian shepherd A young Mason Knight makes a pizza for his dad at and never questioned you admire, is a precious sugar adopted from Lancaster SPCA mix we adopted from the • ¾ cup agave syrup (or why they were all gift. in 2005.

“M&M’s Pizza.”

Lancaster SPCA at Walmart brown corn syrup) blond-haired A couple of in 2005. Our other dog, Bugle sore.How could I be so • 5 tablespoons unsalted and blue-eyed; I years ago, my Boy (named for his heralding stupid? Why did I take his butter- room temperature just knew they husband and barks and howls every time • 3 large eggs, lightly beatcollar off?

Why would a dog were pretty.

I were in a we come home) is a purebred that had everything leave en But I still little Irish pub beagle who finally trusted us for whatever was out there?

• 1 tsp vanilla remember my in downtown • 1 ½ cups chopped pecans enough to let us pet him after If a hunter did shoot him by first Spanish Savannah, where • ¼ teaspoon salt he lived in the woods near mistake, I had now ruined Barbie — she the college kids • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg our house for years. We think Christmas and had to tell my had black hair, Preheat oven to 425 hung out. We he was dumped by a hunter Melanie son his dog was dead because tanned skin and degrees. were sitting at the because he is gun shy.

Knight I was stupid.

Line a 12x18-inch pan brown eyes — bar and had a tall, Our yard is fenced in with I made my way back to the with the pie shells. Where just like me. I pretty bartender an invisible fence so our Melanie Knight house.

There was no way I you have to cut the shells to was too little at the time with magenta pink hair frolic in sandwiches the woods add Heart-shaped dogs ham can open-face a search in the woods on fit the pan, make sure to could to know anything about and a funky punk, plaid, sweet touch to the chasing squirrels and rabbits, overlap where the shells board. my own, so I went to wake up race (besides all the straps-and-buckles outfit. splash around in the shallow meet by ¼ inch. Use a fork my husband Tommie. colors of the children She knew she looked creek and all around enjoy and pierce the shell to To his credit, he just said, Jesus loved), but I knew good and every now and their little doggie country prevent it from bubbling up.

“Oh my God,” and started I felt seen. lives within the safety of our Bake for 10 minutes. Remove again would shimmy BARBIE #GIRLDINNER getting dressed to come help While everyone else from the oven and set aside. yard and movie avoiding the out busy to the music; she knew With the new “Barbie” coming Friday, me search for Colt before was probably playing Reserve pie crust scraps for Road traffic. how to work a crowd. #girldinner hasCamp taken Creek over social media, with ladies our son woke up. Tommie apple pie shell topper and house with their dolls, Back to our walk.

I came After one too many posting photos of the random assortment of food could have really let me have cherry pie lattice. mine were dressed to looked like shimmies right in front items they eatacross instead what of a traditional meal.a dirt it, but he didn’t. I think the For pie filling, mix all the nines and wielding landing strip on the edge of of us, I yelled “Hey!” and While this has shocked many people, it’s par for look on my face let him know individual pie ingredients in the murder weapons the fence line and figured this motioned for her to lean This dish combines the delicious crunch of oven-baked Parmesan the course for the rest of us.

Sometimes you just separate bowls.

I had already beat myself up from Clue. I grewMelanie up must be where Colt would Knight toward me. She took with the comfort of an oven-baked potato. This super simple dish To assemble the Four want a little bit of everything - even if chocolate enough. in the era of “Charlie’s scratch and bark at a squirrel a breath and steeled Tommie“Wonder Knight at the PalSquare Pie, visually identify is surprisingly delicious. chips, guacamole, grapes really go Not wanting to waste time, Melanie Knight Mason Knight, left, and dad Angels,” across theand lineGoldfish that hedon’t desperher face with a smirk where the four squares are. ace of Versailles in France during a spring break trip in I went back outside and into together they do make a tasty lil’ dinner.

Woman,” “Scooby Doo” and lifted eyebrows as ately wanted to chase.

A finished pizza, complete with pizza chili oil, to enjoy Start with the top left square the woods calling for Colt. At In honor of theI new “Barbie” movie, April. and the “Bionic Woman.” she braced herself for looked at Colt andthe hevibrant pink CROSSHATCH PARMESAN POTATOES and fill it in with the apple with the family. first I thought I was hearing color really makes thishis motley of #girldinner My dolls played out raised littlecrew doggie eyepie filling. Top with a layer of Melanie Knight whatever I was going to Serves 8 things, but then it got louder. snacks pop! I was surprised pretty— bowtie scenarios where they piecrust and prick it with a brows and Ihow thought yep, pasta Melanie Knight with her Barbie#Girldinner char-potatoes, cut in half lengthwise say. great man and father • 4 medium-sized russet hear a dog barking in is when it’s pink. enoughtopink pasta to have I couldcuterie knife or fork. Fill the bottom fought crime and solved heMake just wants cross the board, featuring bright pink bowtie pasta I did my best to • ½ cup grated Parmesan your husband is.

I listened again, right square with the cherry it later with some for another Barbie- the distance. mysteries. They were line,alfredo smellsauce around and check cocktail sticks and heart ham •open-face sandwiches.

4 tablespoon melted butter whisper, but since it was pie filling. Top with leftover it was not just any dog, but Wishing all the smart and could fight — a crowded bar, I kinda it out. I knelt down and took inspired dinner.

• 1 teaspoon Kinder’s The Blend seasoning piecrust in a lattice pattern. sometimes they’d get in had to yell for her to off hisIngredients collar. He immediately my dog.

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. grandfathers, fathers Next, pour the pumpkin pie I ran to where the dirt strip fights with my brother’s bolted offfood overcolor the (use lineeach and Line a baking pan with aluminum foil. Cut a crosshatch pattern • 2 teaspoons pink gel Ingredients Remove from heat hear me. She snapped and stepfathers out filling in the top right square. was in the woods, and there kept running.

GI Joe. ¼ inch into each potato. Mix Parmesan, butter and seasoning. teaspoon separately) Finish by pouring the pecan her head back like she’d • 1/4 cup olive oil and add the garlic. Stir there a wonderful he sat on the other side wantUsing a brush (or your fingers), paste the mixture into each potato I started screaming his I had a Ken doll, too, • 2 cups plain Greek yogurt or sour cream pie filling in the bottom left been slapped, tilted her ing to come back across the crosshatch. Place potatoes seasoned side down on the pan. Bake • 1 teaspoon minced for 30 seconds. Add he ran way, way off but he was never part Father’s Day. square.

• 1 package name Hiddenas Valley Ranch seasoning head, and then her face for 25-30 minutes.

Gently peel the potatoes off the aluminum foil line, but scared to. in a huge arc until I couldn’t of the production until Bake for 40-45 minutes in garlic the red pepper flakes, • 1 cup cauliflower, cut into bite-size pieces lit up like a Christmas so the crusted Parmesan does not come off. Enjoy!

Tears streaming down my see him anymore.

I stood I watched the soaps the oven. Remove and let Melanie Knight is a • 1 cup broccoli, cut into bite-size pieces tree!

• ½ teaspoon salt rosemary, salt and face, I ran to him and sank there in the cold and did not one summer with my stand for 10 minutes before • 8 cocktail sticks I had whisper/yelled wife, mom and writer • ¼ teaspoon down on my knees in the dirt desire to punish him because plex lessons. paprika. Stir to mix. Set know what to do next. serving. Enjoy!

Grandma. After that, that I loved her pink • 8 cooked bowtie pasta (dyedtwo pink)gunshots and frantically hugged him.

Then I heard Ken got busted with a with a passion for helping all I cared about was having rosemary aside to cool. Store it Needless to say, both dogs • 16 mozzarella pearls My dog was alive and he had him safe in my arms. in the distance. hussy (one of the Barbie hair and that it looked enjoyed some extra treats that you elevate the everyday.

• ½ teaspoon red in a small Mason jar. amazing on her.

Tommie Melanie Knight is a wife, mom • 8 fresh basil leaves Melanie Knight come home.

“Oh, dear God,” I prayed, knock-off dolls) and That’s when I finally under- Christmas. and I stayed for another and writer with a passion for Check out her blog, www.

• 6 mozzarella and salami pepper flakes To use: Drizzle over I didn’t care why he left “Please don’troll-ups tell me they misthe other real Barbies This is a quick pizza chili stood the story of the prodigal Here are two recipes to hour before we called it helping you elevate the everyday.

• 8 slices of French baguette took my brownbread dog for a deer or that he didn’t come to me theluckywife.life, or find would up can on him • ¼ teaspoon paprika your pizza or use as a oil, andgang you always son and why his homecoming make your holiday meal prep Check out her blog, www. when I called him. I didn’t • 2 ounces cream cheese and shot him!” and run him out of town a night. her on Instagram, TiktTok Heat the oil to dipping sauce. switch up the ingredients But for that hour, that was a reason to celebrate. a little easier. I hope you care what he went after or theluckwife.life or find her on • 4 slices of honey ham, more cut into 8 hearts I called for Colt. He or drag him behind the or YouTube @the_lucky_ medium high heat.

— Melanie Knight topink It’s funny how God uses have a wonderful Thanksgiv- Instagram, Titktok or YouTube @ make your own version.young lady beamed still For didn’t come.

I screamed Cocktail sticks: the pink pasta, bring water why he decided to leave the Jeep.

(I can thank when she came to check safety of our home. I had no simple things to teach us com- ing this year. him untilpink mygel, throat the_lucky_wife. to boil and addfor 1 teaspoon thenwas cook wife.

“Bonanza” for that). on us, and graciously pasta as directed on package. Assemble each stick Fast forward 40-plus kept her shimmies on years and I’m still with a mozzarella pearl, bowtie pasta, basil leaf and looking for women who the other end of the bar. mozzarella pearl.

Funny how women look like me (my hair Heart bread slices: Top each bread slice with a and skin color) because can connect so quickly, layer of cream cheese and afestival: ham heart.

Catawba The Megan Cauthen will ballet: 7 p.m. Nov. 21 at 10,000 lights flash in sync them up at the door.

Kershaw City Cemetery, especially when we feel if they look good in For the pinkCatawba dip: MixNation the yogurt or sour cream will host celebrate the release of her the Lancaster High School with the music.

Wreaths Across 190 Kirk Ave., Kershaw, has OneBlood drives: United Way Day of Action: Farm. Tours suitable ages are 6 andseen. That’s the true their outfit, for chances with 1 teaspoon theYè pink gel andofthe ranchchildren’s book on albinism, Multipurpose Building, theofYap Iswà (Day Heath Springs for the America: Fundraising begun. The ceremony and beauty of Girl Power.

• June 17, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Faith Volunteers of all ages can work on older. that color and style will seasoning. the Catawba) Festival “Nellie and Ollie: Meeting 325 Woodland Drive, Holidays: Heath Springs for the annual 2022 wreath laying is noon Dec. probably look center good on Presbyterian Church, 7520 Charlotte projects June 21 and/or June 24 that Indian Land senior Place the pink in ap.m. bowlNov. in the roundLike Me,” at a party 10 dip a.m.-4 19 center ofaaFriend Lancaster. The Columbia for the Holidays includes a Wreaths Across America 17. More than 500 wreaths Melanie Knight is a me, too! board. Alternate broccoli and cauliflower on at the Catawba Cultural andone book signing 2-5 p.m.

City Ballet is joined by performance by the Heath commemoration at the will be laid.

Highway, Indian Land support United Way partners like meeting: 1 Ip.m. at Del wife, mom and writer alsoJune make26 a point to Webb side of the board, topped with the cocktail sticks.

Center, 1536 Tom Steven Nov. 20 at The Mirror Room, many local youth dancers Springs Elementary School with a passion for helping • June 19, 2-7 p.m., Faith Hope & KARE, HOPE, the Lancaster Children’s Library, 7641 Charlotte Highway, genuinely compliment Alternate the heart slices and mozzarella rollRoad,bread Rock Hill.

The public 855 Gold Hill Road, Fort Mill. for the local production. chorus, giant slide, you elevate the everyday. women, especially whenCouncil Victory Christian Church, 101 Main St., Home and Lancaster Area Coalition for Indian Land.

Lancaster County ups on the other side. Addto a couple of pink flowers formegancauthen. is welcome attend and RSVP to General admission is $30. hayrides, free family Check out her blog, www.

I know they put a lot of Lancaster the Homeless, or community partners on Aging Director Kylie Craig will give color.

Enjoy! learn more about the books@gmail.com by Nov. Tickets are $25 for Lancaster photo booth and treeTH time and effort into their theluckywife.life, or find Melanie Knight — Melanie indigenous people who 11.Knight County Council of livens the Artsup these lighting 2-5:30 p.m. Nov. • June 25, 1-6 p.m., RedStone 14, like Keep Lancaster County Beautiful an overview ofmakeup the organization her on Instagram, TikTok or hair, and outfit. and Bright pink bowtie pasta really cockR. Douglas and Harriett Gardner have lived in this area for OneBlood tail drive: members and performers’ 27 at the Heath Springs A compliment a sticks.

YouTube @the_lucky_wife.

9650 RedStone Drive, Indian Land and Sheltered. Donations also discuss senior needs in from the Indian

TLNWeekend

Come on Barbie, let’s go party

I

thedanielislandnews.com The Daniel Island News ■ March 9 - 15, 2023

THE KELSEY EFFECT

CofC men’s basketball coach brings charisma, inspires Cougars’ historic season

know your neighbor MISTY JO NEILSON

MISTY JO NEILSON

news@thedanielislandnews.com

Pat Kelsey is fired up. The charismatic head coach of the College of Charleston men’s basketball team draws endless energy from his devoted players, the team’s lively fans and the Holy City.

In February, the Cougars wrapped up what Kelsey calls a “magical” regular season, sporting a 28-3 record and sharing a first-place finish in the Colonial Athletic Association Conference.

Along the way, his team garnered a 20-game winning streak and a

spot on the Associated Press’ Top25 poll for the first time in two decades.

But Kelsey doesn’t take the credit. “The three most important things to a successful basketball program are your players, your players and your players. We have a great makeup on our roster of talented players that are unbelievably mature and professional.”

Kelsey uses his social media and marketing savvy to bolster enthusiasm for his team. He can be seen on YouTube and Twitter walking through the college campus or along King Street giving video pep talks before each game. He coined the slogan, “Our City,” to bring students and locals together in support of the Cougars.

“We want the student body

COMING EVENTS

ANNIVERSARY: 60

To make an appointment, visit www.oneblood.org or call 888-9-DONATE (936-6283).

Lancaster NAACP: noon-4 p.m.

June 17, Juneteenth Celebration at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, 2393 New Hope Road, Heath Springs.

Guest speaker is Jamal Craig.

welcome. Call 803-283-8923 or email resource@uwaylcsc.org for details.

Lunch and Learn: “Rice Culture in South Carolina, Past and Present”

by Amanda McNulty, producer and host of SCETV’s “Making It Grow,” at noon June 23 at the Native American Studies Center, 119 S. Main St.,

Land area. Anyone interested in a senior center in the Indian Land area is encouraged to attend, as the council needs at least people willing to theme, “Who Am I, and BY20 TISHA SIMMONS IOTA THETA come to the center if it OMEGA opens.

Where I am Going?”

Iota Theta Omega, p r o v i d e d t h e y o u n g Dem Good Time: Lancaster the Lancaster County Democratic Partychapter social leaders an oppor tuniof Alpha Kappa Alpha ty to introduce them6-8 p.m. June 28, location TBD. To selves and describe Sorority Inc., recently

thousands of years. There will be performances by a Catawba drumming group, traditional dances and storytelling and homemade items from indigenous craftsman available to buy.

Life in the Waxhaws Lantern Tour: 6-8 p.m. Nov. 19 at Andrew Jackson State

• Nov. 20, 11 a.m.6 p.m., RedStone 14, 9650 RedStone Drive, Indian Land To make an appointment, visit www.oneblood.org or call 888-59-BLOOD. Lancaster Branch NAACP officer elections: Voting for local officer elections is noon-4 p.m.

immediate family members.

Children age 10 and under can get in free with a paying adult if they turn in a “Nutcracker” coloring sheet. Tickets and coloring sheet available at www. artslancaster.com under upcoming events.

Flat Rock Christmas

Depot. Photo booth opens at 1:30 p.m.

Christmas Chinese auction: 1 p.m. Dec. 3 at the Lancaster Cultural Arts Center, 307 W. Gay St., Lancaster.

Doors open at 11 a.m.

Sponsored by the James R. Clark Sickle Cell

Sorority honors young leaders in community

R. Douglas and Harriet Hough Gardner, of Surfside Beach, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Nov. 17, 2022.

Their children are Mark Gardner and his wife, Susan, of Lancaster

The Daniel Island News ■ June 22 - 28, 2023

‘She’s truly a gift’

Gabby Meyer is a friendly face to Publix customers

know your neighbor

Dimensions of Wellness

MISTY JO NEILSON

When Gabby Meyer bags your groceries at the Daniel Island Publix, you will get friendly conversation and maybe some cooking advice. Gabby has worked at Publix for nearly 10 years and is somewhat of a local celebrity.

Sleep Exercise “Everyone who comes into my line says, ‘Hi Gabby,’ every time,” she said. “I love it.”

The best thing about her job? “Everything and everyone,” including her managers, customers, and fellow employees. “I meet a lot of people and made a lot of friends.

ALL PHOTOS PROVIDED They’re adorable. I love them. They give me College of Charleston head basketball coach Pat Kelsey led the Cougars to one of the team’s best regular seasons hugs every time.” in program history.

Gabby, who is 29 and has Down syndrome, moved to Daniel Island from St. Hormonal & lead the conference in attendance. and the city of Charleston to take Louis with her parents, Mike and Shana, and Spiritual Sexual Health Downtown establishments enjoy ownership of our program, to feel brothers, Jake and Ben, 16 years ago. She atswarms of patrons before and after like it’s their team,” said Kelsey. tended the Daniel Island School and Bishop home games and vendors can’t “You go places and people are England High School. In 2018 she graduated keep fan merchandise in stock. talking about the Cougars and from the College of Charleston’s REACH “TD arena has become one of Charleston basketball… that buzz program, a fully inclusive four-year curricuthe premier basketball atmospheres around the city fires me up more lum that promotes academic advancement, in the country this year,” said than anything.” socialization, and independent living for Kelsey. “Every game is sold out; People are also talking about students with developmental delays. it’s loud, it’s boisterous, it’s rockKelsey. His success in his secthedanielislandnews.com The Daniel Island News ■ September 28high - October 2023 “I worked all through school4,and ing and it’s a really, really tough ond year as head coach has been college,” said Gabby, who’s younger brother, Nutrition place to play for opponents.” a windfall for the College of Ben, has worked at Publix for eight years.

Kelsey hopes to keep that Charleston; where the athletic “I love having my brother work here.” Ben momentum going into the CAA department has taken in record graduated from Coastal Carolina Univertournament and earn a chance to revenue and donations and the sity’s LIFE program, which is similar to the Pat Kelsey takes a selfie with fans dance in March Madness beginadmissions department is expectREACH program. at a recent College of Charleston ning March 14. ing its largest application pool in They are both full time employees with Cougars basketball game. The “We just try to be great at the school history. full benefits paying for their own apartment team’s Meeting Street venue, TD next thing we do,” Kelsey said “I’m bad at a lot of things, but I at Central Island Square, according to their Arena, has drawn record crowds, when asked about his predictions think I have an ability to connect mother, Shana, who is a long-time advocate selling out 12 home games and for the NCAA tournament. “All with people, to generate excitefor including children with disabilities in leading theaconference in atten-who “I’m naturally jovial person you can ask is to be playing your ment and to inspire people,” said Social Intellectual sports, public schools, and the community. dance. best at the right time of the year.”

Kelsey, who is known to crash likes to interact with people. I don’t “It offers a lot of independence and she can The Cincinnati native likescare to who you are, you could be a local hangouts to thank fans on MISTY JO NEILSON walk to work; it’s the perfect setup.” She said city. game days and run into the student say he was born with a basketball of Gabby’s apartment across the street from person around on thetheside of the road begKelsey played hoops at Xavier in People.” his crib. Growing up, Kelsey section to celebrate“Out after of a CouMany, One The national Publix. “She has a strong work ethic; I don’t ging for a dollar, I just like to conUniversity and went on to work could be Patrick found with his parents gars’ win. motto of Jamaica embodies Gilling’s ever remember a day that she wasn’t happy nect with everybody.” as an assistant coach at his alma andembraces four siblings hustling for balls The entire community is feelgoing to work.” philosophy on life. He diversity wellnessandsexualhealth.com on the family’s backyard court, ing the Kelsey effect. The sellout In her free time Gabby likes to hang out and forms friendships with his neighbors off Seefood KELSEY onbeverage PAGEStreet, 19 crowds at the 5,100-seat TD Arena which drew pickup players from 20and Fairchild Suite 102, Daniel Island, SC 29492 – Patrick Gilling, with her pals going shopping, to the beach, Clements Ferry Road, his employees from

PHOTOS BY MISTY JO NEILSON

Gabby Meyer said she loves her “amazing” managers, coworkers and customers at Publix, where she meets nice neighbors and has made great friends.

14 | NEWS

Patrick Gilling connects with people

DI Club’s charismatic food and beverage manager serves more than just food

PIZZA CHILI OIL

COMING EVENTS

04 | NEWS

18 | FEATURE thedanielislandnews.com

The prodigal dog teaches holiday lesson

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Pat Kelsey and his family moved to Daniel Island two years ago when he accepted the head coaching job for the College of Charleston men’s basketball team.

El Salvador, children at the Daniel Island Club, and strangers asking for charity.

“It’s who I am,” said Gilling. “I’m naturally a jovial person who likes to interact with people. I don’t care who you are, you could be a person on the side of the road begging for a dollar, I just like to connect with everybody.”

Gilling was born and raised in Jamaica and moved to the United States in 2008 to work at the Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado.

manager of the Daniel Island Club

He held positions at the Crowne Plaza, Marriott, and Omni Resorts before becoming food and beverage manager at the Daniel Island Club in 2019. Gilling’s laidback and engaging persona has endeared him to both adults and children, who flock to him for conversation and laughs.

“What’s unique about this position is I get

HEALTH

MISTY JO NEILSON

Patrick Gilling (right) and Jovian Oates grew up as neighbors in Jamaica and now work at the Daniel Island Club. The friends started a charity to send food and clothing from local donors to Jamaicans in need. to interact with members in a casual setting, so I get to know their preferences, where they go on vacation, their parents’ names,” he said. “With the kids, I know what sports

IS T O DO L

they like, where they go to school, their favorite food, so we become friends.”

S T ILY PLAN D FAM DUAL AN luations people looking to INDIVIace/ACA plan evafor healthy tpl (perfect - Marke m Plans !)

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See GILLING on PAGE 15

Gabby Meyer has worked at the Daniel Island Publix for nearly 10 years and her brother, Ben, has worked at the store for eight years. and out to happy hour and dinner on Daniel Island. Some of her favorite spots include Vespa, Wasabi and Viva. “I love all of them,” she said, “and also Kingstide and Orlando’s.”

See NEIGHBOR on PAGE 13

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I was so wrong

BY BETTY MOSES BETTY.MOSES@MYHORRYNEWS.COM

When I opened my email yesterday at the office, I was in for a rude awakening. It was a message from our publisher to everyone on staff, myself included.

And, no, I wasn’t being put out to pasture yet even though I will turn 88 next week.

His email said “…a photography company will take headshots this Thursday at 10 a.m. in the office.” It also continued, “Everyone, please dress up for a professional headshot pic.”

That photo session would take place two days after I read it — tomorrow to be exact. I began to panic and not without cause.

You see I have committed the ultimate mistake any woman of any age can do to themselves — two days earlier, in frustration, I picked up a pair of scissors and decided I could do a better job on my hair than the beautician whom I felt had done a bit of

You see I have committed the ultimate mistake any woman of any age can do to themselves — two days earlier, in frustration, I picked up a pair of scissors and decided I could do a better job on my hair than the beautician whom I felt had done a bit of butchering on my hair during my last haircut. butchering on my hair during my last haircut.

I was so wrong.

I have a new rule every woman should follow religiously — never cut your bangs yourself. You will live to regret it, especially if one is to be photographed two days later.

And bangs cannot be stretched, nor will they grow in two days.

The request to “dress up” for the shoot also caused me some distress.

Since the pandemic, my wardrobe contains only two types of clothing —

pajamas and casual work outfits.

After my favorite store for purchasing pretty and well-fitting plus-sized separates closed, my shopping became a thankless task of ordering pants that were either too large or too small but never in between and blouses and shirts that were either short in length or much too long.

I know at my age I will never turn back the clock, and I understand that 88 is not the new 68 no matter how much I wish it was.

Some days I consider it a major

hannah.oskin@myhorrynews.com

Please be sure to sign your letter, give your address and a daytime telephone number.

Personable, humorous and to the point.

SOUND OFF!

victory to be able to get dressed and drive to work. And I know no one is expecting me to be a fashion icon as I stroll behind my little rollator up and down the halls of the office.

My feet have decided that Birkenstock sandals are the perfect footware for my tootsies as they change, and I will never, ever wear another pair of high heels.

One thing doesn’t change — no matter how old I am.

I have my jewelry and the earrings still fit on my ears, and my wrinkled fingers can wear as many rings and bracelets as I wish to slide onto my hands in the mornings.

Maybe my favorite turquoise and silver Brighton earrings will distract the attention from my short and gapped bangs.

I keep telling myself they will.

In the meantime, take my advice and protect yourself from making a huge mistake.

Place those scissors under lock and key, and then throw away the key.

You will thank me for it.

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The Summerville

The Summerville JOURNAL SCENE JOURNAL SCENE

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Wednesday, September 20, 2023

BRANDON ROBERTS, Editor BRANDON ROBERTS, Editor

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www.journalscene.com Are free refills arch-nemesis September 13, 2023 A Wednesday, smaller home is a happy home It is just part

Something of the utmost HNewspapers are importance

BY TOM PURCELL

BY BRANDON ROBERTS

T

his is going to be glorious. I wrestled with whether I should begin this column with such a statement. Ultimately, and obviously, I chose to do so because it allows you, the readers, to hold me accountable.

Accountability, both being a c c ou nta ble a nd holding people accountable, is perhaps the No. 1 priority in this profession we call journalism Brandon a nd t h i s Roberts tool we call a newspaper. I have no problem being held accountable and I am hopeful those we cover do not have a problem with it, either.

Accountability stands as a fundamental principle that not only safeguards the integrity of people’s actions but fosters growth and development. At its core, accountability embodies responsibility and ownership. It is the acknowledgment our choices and decisions have consequences, not just for ourselves, but for those around us.

A person simply understanding that with decisions comes accountability creates a culture of transparency and trust that is essential for any thriving community. When individuals and institutions hold themselves accountable, they inspire confidence and reliability. When they are held accountable by those in the community and the local media, it breeds truth and honesty.

Whether in business or society, accountability can make or break success. Companies that embrace accountability likely expect continuous improvement and value learning from mistakes, which makes it easier to navigate challenges and cultivates resiliency.

Accountability is perhaps most important when applied

Accountability is not always an easy path to tread. It demands courage to admit and fix mistakes. It is, however, important to recognize accountability is not about blame as much as it is a commitment to making things right. Mistakes, when acknowledged and corrected, become stepping stones to progress, rather than stumbling blocks.

ouses are getting sma l ler a ga i n — which is going to make many Americans happier.

Americans faced with high mortgage rates and a shortage of affordable homes for sale are opting for n e w , smaller homes that do not have dining rooms, Tom l i v i ng Purcell rooms, spare bedrooms and even bathtubs, reports the Wall Street Journal.

Bu i lders a re bu i ld i ng smaller homes partly to give cost-constrained buyers a more affordable option.

But it’s mostly because it’s the only way home builders can turn a reasonable profit, thanks to the high cost of const r uct ion materia ls, which have skyrocketed in the past few years.

Home si z es su re have soared since I was a kid in the 1970s.

According to the U.S. Census, in 1972 the average home was 1,660 square feet.

In the 1990s, with the era of the “McMansion” in full swing, no small number of home s e xc e e d e d 4 , 0 0 0 square feet — homes so unnecessarily big you need to hail an Uber to get from the living room to the kitchen.

The American home continued to grow until it peaked in 2015 at an average of 2,467 square feet, but now it’s fast heading back to 1972 numbers, which offers some good news.

In my experience, a mod-

vital to sense of community

BY BRANDON ROBERTS

of the job

BY BRANDON ROBERTS

T

his may be shocking to some people, but this newspaper, at least occasionally, could print something on which not everyone agrees. Yes, it’s true.

Whether an opinion piece or a news story, sometimes feathers get ruffled, feelings get hu r t and, a lthough rare, people get downrig ht a ngry. It’s just going to happen. I h a v e learned Brandon over my Roberts two dehomes, smaller homes were cades as a all they could afford. newspaper editor that some And now, with the highest interest rates in yearspeople and a will disagree with just shortage of affordable about homesanything, so civil discourse on the market, builders are is just part of the job.

I have also learned to never going small. purposely The Journa l cited one write anything that will make people upset and builder in South Carolina while who said that buyers are hap-it’s critical to know your audience, it is madness to pily buying homes between pander 1,500 and 1,700 square feet. to it.

In my opinion, theyThe willlevel of political divide in our country is heightened, find more happiness in their the enduring power of smaller homes thanand they newspapers to shape public ever would in a much larger discourse cannot be underesone. timated.

The modest-sized house I One of the cornerstones grew up in was a mansion byof what newspapers are the measures that intended really for lies in their ability to print a diverse range of count. opinions. While the internet offers Purcell, creator of the in- us an echo chamber of our own beliefs, newspapers fotainment site Thurbercontinue to stand as a bastion sTail.com, which features of diverse voices. pet advice he’s learning Newspapers have estabfrom his beloved Labrador, lished Thurber, is a Pittsburgh Tri- editorial guidelines bune-Review humor and col-provide a platform where contrasting ideas can and umnist. Email him at Tom@ should coexist. This tradition TomPurcell.com. of presenting different viewpoints promotes critical thinking. When readers encounter a variety of perspectives on a single issue, they are encouraged to evaluate the arguments and consider alternative viewpoints. This process is essential for a ticipation,” they will healthy have a democracy where informed plan in place for parking.

If citizens make reasoned not, I hope they slow downdecisions.

Exposure to different opinand take the time to talk to ions allows readers to undertheir neighbors on Laurel stand Street before they act. We justthe perspectives and concerns of others, even if might have some valuable inthey don’t agree with them.

also foster a sense of identity.

They serve as a platform for n this era of digital domi- local voices, allowing citizens nance and social media to share their opinions, consaturation, it is easy to cerns and achievements (just the 34 years of my this colest-sized homesiggenerates lookDuring to the right overlook the enduring more closeness and happi- parents lived there the front umn).

Innever this way, nificance of theness printed newsdoor was locked and newspaamong its family memfriends and relatives came bers. paper. Yet, the humble news- pers are a catalyst for civic The suburban house I grew and went at all hours.

We had a million birthday up inpaper was all of 1,500 encouraging re-squareengagement, feet. Built in 1964, it was a parties and family gathermains an dialogue ings there.and Everydebate emotion that can rectangular four-bedroom box with a red-brick façade under the sun — love, anger, lead to positive change within indispenson the bottom and white alu- joy, sadness — took place there. minum thedtop. our communities. a bsiding l e ona n It also had only one full Many nights after dinner are also important my sisters and parents sat instrubathroom that, by 1973, had Newspapers to be shared by me, my par- packed into our tight little mental in connecting local institution kitchen around a giant table, ents and all five of my sisters! laughing and sharing stories.

Thankfully, parents businesses with their cuswithinmy our constituents. When they reNever once did we feel our had just enough money to tomer base. main accountable for their home was small.Through adveradd acommunimaster bedroom and promises and actions, citibath on the first floor, which, Interestingly, according to tising, they help enterties,wasservzens’ faith in the democratic Business Insider, the small only to them, Heaven on process remains unshaken reasonthrive, home sizes continued Earth. contributing to i n g a s a prises and oftentimes restored.

Still, the house was modest to grow after the 2008 housvitality of the r uit forced s t ethe d eighttheingeconomic Brandon in sizet and Transparency in governance collapse was that many allows a sort of partnership to live together — there people who had a lot of home community. atond Roberts ofwasussimply form between the governequity, good jobs andNewspapers excelnorel way ito avoid ment and the governed. lent a credit had the audience financial eachable other. source have captive while Accountability is not always In those days we couldn’t qualifications to meet strinmany otherrequirements. mediums do not. of ouri smart n foran easy path to tread. It degent lending just take phones to mands courage to admit and our distant bedrooms and By 2015, however, as youngIn turn, this supports local mation, a mirror reflecting fix mistakes. It is, however, lock the rest of the family er people who lacked such important to recognize accredentials began buying out. a unifying jobs, strengthens the tax base, our society and countability is not about force that binds us together. and helps maintain the overblame as much as it is a commitment to making things allthe health of the region’s econNewspapers are, firstLetters and to Editor right. Mistakes, when acknowledged and corrected, foremost, the glue that holds omy. become stepping stones to many communities together In an age when misinformaprogress, rather than stumbling blocks. by tirelessly investigating, re- tion and fake news proliferate Sure, passing the buck and To the editor: the past three years commic checksnewspapers and music blasting remain evading responsibility is por ting and ininforming, online, On Friday, Aug. 25, I at- pared to all its previous years from the press box at 8 a.m. on tempting, but by embracing to oflight issues and beholden inthe re-dedication combined.

If there has been a Saturday, orto havejournalistic my mailaccountability, we lay the tendedbringing foundation for an exciting fu- The Miracle League Field and any “Disneyfication” happen- box blocked by a parked car. events that affect us on local tegrity.

They adhere left with some concerns after ing in Summerville, it’s on Some Saturdays, I have to re- to strinture. hearing of their plans tolevels.

Laurel Street. mind myself the greater good Brandon Roberts is the

BY JASE GRAVES and regional gent editorial standards, fact“ramp up participation” in Disneyfication is not neces- of these changes outweighs the managing editor of The

I

Laurel Street resident has concerns

printing diverse opinions can be challenging. The rise of digital media and the decline in print readership have forced many newspapers to adapt or downsize. In some cases, this has led to a reduction in editorial diversity.

It is equally as challenging for editors to navigate the fine line between presenting different opinions and giving a platform to hate speech or misinformation. Responsible editorial oversight is essential to ensure the diversity of opinions and news does not lead to harm.

Something else I have learned, and perhaps the more important facet of this or any newspaper job, is that you can’t please everyone, and what makes people mad is not always someone else’s opinion.

At one of my previous jobs, it was election season and the county’s Republican Party had opened its headquarters. The chair of the county party called and asked us to take a picture of their building, as she asked every election year, and I took the picture, printed it on page 2, two columns wide in color in the next edition. I was the editor but wrote more stories and took more pictures on a weekly basis than my reporter.

The next week the chair of the county Democrats made the same request, and I took the picture, as I always did, and printed it on page 3, three columns wide in black and white in the next edition.

After the paper with the picture of the Democrat headquarters came out, the chair of the county GOP stormed in my office, furious that the picture of the Democrat headquarters was a column wider than the picture of the Republican headquarters. I explained about space, color positions and even how the different type of buildings were all considered when determining the size of the photos. She ultimately understood, but was still not very happy. We had always worked well together, so we shook hands and she left. On her way out, she held the door open for the chair of the county Democrats, who stormed back to my desk and demanded to know why the

A13

of the golden arches?

BY DANNY TYREE

S

o, now the fuzzy purple critter isn’t the only “grimace” I’ll associate with the McDonald’s chain.

“I’m lovin’ it” was assuredly not my gut-level reaction when I read of a 10-year corporate plan to phase out self-serving soda machines in all the restaurants and require customers to request (grovel for) refills at the counter.

Consumers should have suspected beverage stations were endangered when one of last year’s Happy Meals contained the proverb “Anything worth doing is worth dragging out for nearly a decade, starting with franchises in Illinois.”

I’m a big Charles Dickens fan, but the whole “Please, sir, I want some more” twist does not meet my Great Expectations. In today’s powder-keg world, it will not end well. (“Who you calling ‘Sir’??? I WOULD rattle off my pronouns, but that would take longer than it takes to get the ice-cream machine to work.”)

A company press release said the change to a “crew pour”

system is “intended to create a consistent experience for both customers and crew across all ordering points.” Oh, yeah – everyone raves about the consistency at the DMV. Besides, where’s the equity for dine-in and drivethru customers?

Must the Danny latter bilTyree low out carbon dioxide while circling the drivethru lane for multiple refills? (“You deserve a checkered flag today!”)

McDonald’s struggles gamely to give this evolution a positive spin, but no matter what their actual words, everyone hears, “Come for the pink slime; stay to take the walk of shame.”

Yes, the walk of shame. (“Say, do you realize how many times I’ve already poured you a refill? It’s..it’s.. Dude! I can’t do the math in my head.”)

Some have claimed that the

new system is healthier because there won’t be all those (ugh!) valued customers touching the drink dispenser and lids. (Healthier? Oh, yeah, I forgot all those “Billions and billions cured” billboards.) With my luck, I’ll get the server who is always yelling at his co-workers, “Okay, who’s the wiseguy who substituted his jockstrap for my hairnet?”

Zits the size of Mayor McCheese’s desk are not something I want hovering near my beverage, either.

My interactions with McDonald’s drinks are very personal. Maybe I want to sample a squirt of different flavors.

Maybe I want to mix drinks (what we Cub Scouts used to call a “suicide” in less politically correct times). Maybe I’m in the mood for less ice than last Wednesday. And I want to take responsibility for my own life decisions. I don’t want an ambitious staffer writing up a resume that includes “accomplice to diabetes.”

I cherish memories of sipping a self-poured Dr. Pepper while my son frolicked on the

McDonald’s playground or (later) watched Fox News with me. Our McDonald’s was a working-class community gathering place. But the pandemic devastated that idyllic world, accelerating the transition to drive-thru purchases, delivery services and digital ordering.

I realize that foot traffic and in-store dining are down, but I don’t understand why management feels compelled to double down on “Food, folks and fuming.”

Okay, I’m not the first person to bewail “progress.” My ancestors fought against the dying of the pot-bellied stove and rustic pickle barrel.

Or they did until it was discovered that the fugitive Hamburglar had asphyxiated amongst the gherkins!

Brrr. It’s enough to drive one to drink – if only Jason and Emma hadn’t left the counter short-staffed.

Danny Tyree welcomes email responses at tyreetyrades@aol.com and visits to his Facebook fan page “Tyree’s Tyrades.”

Letters to the Editor Graham lucky to avoid indictment Dear editor: Sen. Lindsey Graham can thank his lucky stars he was not indicted, yet, in the criminal attempt to steal Georgia’s electoral votes as part of Donald Trump’s attempted coup.

How ironic it is Graham represents South Carolina, the intellectual cradle of states’ rights? Yet, he defends himself by saying he was only checking into voter fraud in a neighboring state, and this was within his duties as chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee. Even Graham cannot believe this nonsense.

How would Graham like it if, say, Georgia Sen. Raphael Warnock started looking into alleged voter fraud in South Carolina? He would be the first to claim the integrity of South Carolina’s elections is our business.

Similarly, it is ridiculous for Graham to claim he was using his position as a United

What Graham cannot admit is the truth: he was trying to strong-arm his fellow Republicans in Georgia to flip the vote in Trump’s favor.

Those stalwart Georgia Republicans refused. They showed more character than Graham has shown since Trump stole his soul in 2016.

To say that Graham has become a disgrace to South Carolina is an understatement. Indict him, Fani. There is still time.

DAVID M. RUBIN Summerville

Rethink the plan Dear editor, Over my 15 years living in Summerville, I have heard pride filled reminisces from lifelong residents. Stories of who graduated Summerville High School, built and/or owned businesses, properties.

Feel as though Berlin G. Myers, as well the Miler and Waring families are personal friends. Those of us not born

The walking and riding tours remain popular, as does visiting the Summerville Museum and Research Center, the Public Works Art Center and the quaint shops and restaurants.

The above is noted as it conflicts with the current plan to raze the Dorchester County Council Historic District’s building at 500 N. Main St. No. 3, Summerville, which once served as a hospital wherein many residents were born.

Dorchester County Council offices and Veteran’s Services are among the building residents. Respect given for those who fought for us is reflected in the Veteran’s Memorial located on the front lawn.

Ea rly i n t he process, Dorchester County Council discussions abounded as to to preserve or raze the building.

Council offered its intent, residents voice opinion for and against. Initially, council noted the building was not maintained appropriately and currently too expensive to bring it

Council recently voted to raze the building, noting a developer would potentially build low-income apartments for teachers, which would not add to ambiance at that location, surely there are other available locations for such a worthy cause. Businesses are also to be included on the property. The developer would not pay taxes, instead assessed a “fee” without a designated end time e.g., a month, year, thereafter no fee.

Sadly, residents and Preservation Society views were not heeded.

Recommend council readdress the property plan, demonstrate to the residents, and those of us who enjoy Summerville’s history, they have a “self-sustaining income bearing forever plan” in place which includes continued building upgrades, addition of a “Veteran’s Memorial Park,” fountain, benches, walkways where residents and guests would stroll as in days past, read historic markers as to the

Dad’s lumbar moving company again – although my back nia for unnecessary interior a gesture of her gratitude,

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hey are forced to use an energy source that emits more greenhouse gases.

Wood is also becoming a major source of heating homes. The Dark Ages are back.

Then there is the calamty that is unfolding in Switzerland. This is a country that is anything but a heavy-handed socialist state, but now hanks to the "energy state of emergency," which is the norm in Europe, the Swiss government has announced it will ban the use of elecric cars for "nonessenial" journeys. At the same time, it is encouragng people to take the rain to shop for their groceries, but it has admitted hat train service may also be disrupted.

That's not all. The government is also drawing up plans for dealing with blackouts that include reducing store hours by up to wo hours per day, heating systems in nightclubs to be urned off and other buildngs to be heated to no more than 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Online streaming services and game consoles could be banned. Christmas lights might be turned off, and all sports stadiums and leisure facilities could be closed.

Is Europe turning into a hird-world banana repubic?

All of this brings us to a stark reality. Europe has gone all-in on wind and solar power, and the experment has failed miserably.

These fringe energy sources don't work and aren't

THE SUMTER ITEM

Matthew Hensley Index-Journal

N.G. Osteen 1843-1936 The Watchman and Southron

Graham Osteen Co-Owner

H.G. Osteen 1870-1955 Founder, The Item

H.D. Osteen 1904-1987 The Item

Margaret W. Osteen 1908-1996 The Item

April 29, 2023

R. Frank Mundy

Hubert D. Osteen Jr. 1936-2020 The Sumter Item

1915-1982

Vince Johnson Publisher

36 W. Liberty St., Sumter, South Carolina 29150 • Founded October 15, 1894

O

ne of the times I'm most likely to end up vouching for the importance and sustainability of local news is when I'm in an Uber.

You might know the typical conversation starter.

What are you in town for?

This weekend, I was in Little Rock, Arkansas, for a wedding. Where are you visiting from? Oh, what brought you there? Work. What do you do for work? ... You work for a newspaper? I didn't know people still did that.

Then the conversation goes one of two ways. Sometimes, it's a nice and supportive discussion where the driver finds it interesting that we are trying to make local newspapers sustainable and innovative in an increasingly digital world. How we still value the printed newspaper while at the same time knowing not everyone will pick one up. But that even those people want and need reliable, accurate and fair local information.

Often, the response is some variation of "Media is so biased now, and why should I pay for it if I can get it somewhere else for free?" But that assumption about bias is always — and I mean always — referring to national news that deals with national politics. When we explain that local news is different than 24/7 cable networks and that we don't get paid to promote false narratives (yes, we are asked that a lot), they often still go back to thinking they can just find it "somewhere else for free." Where do you find local information, we

ask. (I say we because Micah is usually better at holding Uber conversations like this without wanting to trail off.

Sometimes I just want to be in a quiet Uber.) This weekend's answer was Reddit.

After a couple more questions asking what kind of LOCAL information he finds on Reddit, he said, "Well, not local. More on national politics and stuff. But I Kayla Green can't trust the media."

We know there is a pretty wide assumption in this country about media bias and a lack of trust in big outlets. But it's so important to differentiate between what many people think of "media" and what local newspapers are.

Local newspapers provide the most accurate, reliable information you can get about your community. Even local TV stations get up to a quarter of their stories from the paper.

The most amazing thing about these conversations is the entitlement that news should be free. It's never been free. This weekend's guy said something about how there "are no more Walter Cronkites." How would he know, if he doesn't consume the news? There are so many great journalists all over the country, and you know what else they are?

Employees. They need paychecks. Cronkite did, too.

And people paid for cable TV

packages so they could watch him.

I've found one of the most effective ways to combat the assumptions that come out in conversations like the one Micah and I had twice this weekend, assumptions based in misinformation, is by actions over words.

You're more informed, you're a better citizen, because you read your local news. We prioritize looking into stories you won't find anywhere else. Reporting that makes you better. So not necessarily every single car crash or "was that gunshots" rumor posted on Facebook.

We tell you what your local elected officials are doing, what's happening with high school sports, what events you can bring the family to this weekend. Who's running for school board and who's opening a new coffee shop.

Who's making a comeback and who needs help.

This holiday season, give that gift of knowledge to a family member, friend or other loved one. Help support the continuation of local news. If you're reading this and you're not a subscriber, gift yourself something you can use every day rather than a thing that'll end up in a landfill. Thank you for supporting The Sumter Item. We truly wouldn't — and wouldn't want to — be here without you.

To gift or get a digital subscription to The Sumter Item for $1 a week for 26 weeks, go to www.theitem.com/gift.

Kayla Green is managing editor of The Sumter Item.

Celebrating the light newspapers shine

I

t's Sunshine Week. pay or the easy hours. We're community. It lets you see everyone is entitled to, knowFOIA also ensures elected This annual celebration how the people you elect in it on the grandest scale to ing doing so takes time, effort officials do not discuss, make of access to public inforspend your tax dollars. and often money not everyone or carry out policy in private. carry out the First Amendmation was launched in ment, on the smallest but no · To access a citizens toolcan expend.

The South Carolina General 2005 by the American Society less important scale to tell box for obtaining public reIn 2022, The Sumter Item’s Assembly said it is "vital in a of News Edistories of the local communicords in South Carolina, crereporters used FOIA to inves- democratic society" when it tors - now ated by The Post & Courier, tigate the rift between Sumpassed the state version of the ties we serve. (Small scale, News Leaders big, both the same.) To shine a the founding newspaper of ter's school board and its now law in 1978.

Association Uncovered, a statewide projformer superintendent; to de· To access the South Caroli- light. na Press Association’s citiand has It's a profession that doesn't ect where they partner with tail missteps in public meetgrown into an community newspapers, inings that led to a citizens law- zens guide to the state’s Free- have daily glamour or often dom of Information Act, visit enduring iniinstant gratification. Everycluding The Sumter Item, to suit and judge’s order the https://scpress.org/foia-cititiative to proone thinks they can do our job investigate potential abuses of school board voted illegally; zens-guide/. mote open better than us. It can be gruelpower, misuse of taxpayer and to bring to light new inItem reporters have ensured government. ing, and reporters often must dollars and reports of miscon- formation about Clarendon | A7 THE SUMTER ITEM WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023 Kayla Green city council meeting policies The basic fight to get ahold of docuduct, visit https://bit.ly/42lSchool District’s superinten1870-1955 1908-1996 N.G. Osteenof 1843-1936 Hubert D. Osteen Jr. 1936-2020 H.D. Osteen 1904-1987 dent’s Margaret W. Osteen H.G. Osteen are applied evenly, resulting function ments they and the public are Hd6D. contract that included Item Founder, The Item Item The Itemto stipends and his TheinSumter The Watchman Southronand state a redrafting of the rules FOIA, bothand a federal entitled to legally. To shine a We need thisThe law.

If there a change when it comes to who can law, is to ensure citizens are light. was no need, then documents salary. during meetings; highinformed and that public offi- furnished in response to reAnother Sunshine Week The Sumter Item’s participa- speak Jacqueline B. Osteen Co-Owner votes made illegally at will come and go in a flash of cials don't operate in secrecy. quests would reveal nothing tion in Uncovered in 2022 con- lighted Graham Osteen Co-Owner Sumter school board meetSouth Carolina's Freedom light, but in newsrooms at The unknown. Nothing hidden. tributed to the Charleston Kyle and Osteen Co-Ownermeetings ings; prevented of Information Act allows you Nothing government officials newspaper’s report on toxic Sumter Item and across South and from happen- Carolina, the mission never - yes, you! - to access public would prefer their constitumold at universities across Jackdiscussions Osteen Co-Owner ing without proper notice to documents and attend govern- ents not know. ends. While there is need for the state; and a report on a Vince Johnson Publisher ment meetings. It lets you folthe powerful to be held acWe know that's utopian.

SLED probe into an allegation the media and public.

We're not in this business low how public officials make countable, with the tools of Reporters are the strong of rape by Sumter County’s for the notoriety, for the decisions on matters and poli- arm representing the public, the law and the Constitution, sheriff, which resulted in no 36cyW.that Liberty St.,you Sumter, South Carolina 29150 • Founded Octobercharges.

15, 1894 thanks, for the image or the impact and your we will shine a light. using FOIA to get information

COMMENTARY EDITORIAL ROUNDUP

Local news can lead to having real conversations Post and Courier March 13

P

eople love telling journalists how to do our job better.

That comma is wrong. This headline doesn’t tell the whole story. “Your fake news!” Yes, I spelled “your” incorrectly for this example.

It’s part of the gig when your work is seen, scrutinized by the public daily. Often the comments are funny, other times they’re accurate and helpful (no one is perfect, after all, a good sentiment to sow before clickingThe sendidea on that Facebookpolice" comment of "defunding was aggresornever email).

Sometimes taken seriouslythey’re in South Carosive, or activists downright threatenlina.baseless Although in Charleston ing. and a few other cities called for such judgment without theof territoaSo, move, it was comes dismissed hand. ry. know that.

Buteven I try AtWe thecollectively Statehouse, it was never situations not to put our—staff considered and in not just because where we’re inviting people to yelldomat Republicans so overwhelmingly us.

That’s why I was apprehensive inate state government.

Democrats ahead a new event we held this didn'tofpropose it. summer, meet and greet for So anya suggestion that open S.C. Repubfree to the It was around licans arepublic. pushing backbased against a dethe launchmovement of a new magazine, funding in favor ofbut su-it was also a chance forinpeople to meet per-funding police next year's state the humans the budget has behind more tothe dobylines, with political videos, the graphic design and all the posturing than reality.

What House other roles that make The Sumter Item budget writers are actually doing is go. taking important steps to make it easier for SLED, the Highway Patrol and other state police agencies to fill vaCOMMENTARY cancies, which in turn is forcing local police agencies throughout the state to increase their salaries to compete for officers. And all that is making it more likely that we will increase the caliber of police at both the state and local levels.

S.C. budget plan finally delivers $50K starting pay — but not for teachers

God’s Word

the Ways and Means Committee budget proposal the House is debating this week, the minimum pay for firstThe worst is exactly what I started year teachers will go up $2,500, to to expect as soon as a man came up to $42,500. me to say I “needed” to talk to someLike police, teachers are essential one he knew about something she was to a well-functioning society. As with upset with. Oof, here we go. law enforcement, we have underpaid What transpired was the opposite of teachers so much and for so long that my assumptions. we dreaded have a deepening shortage, with She wasincreasingly upset over one of our officials coming upcolumnists she short on enough bodies because to fill the poagree with his sitions. As with didn’t law enforcement, religious stances. She teachers are leaving the profession thought they were in for a lot of reasons that have nothing fact quite offensive to do with the pay — but low pay and exclusionary to makes it a lot easier for them to move her based on her own on. religious beliefs and Budget writers brag that this year's why we salary increase wondered for teachers reprun for such opinKayla Green resents a 33% raise beginning ion-based teachers over six years — columns which is reI’d con-it and whether ally impressive. Until you compare sider it from thestate paper. to thecutting starting pay for police. the bat with an apoloI started offincreased Lawmakers the pay for law gy for her feelings of exclusion fromof enforcement officers by an average That's never something in our 15% last year, andpaper. are proposing anour intention, sometimes it's inevother 15% thisbut year.

SLED salaries itable when open a range went up 31%you lastare year andtoare set to of and opinions. certainly govoices up another 15% nextWe year, to a are intentional about— inclusion minimum of $58,000 which isand about fairness when it comes to our pay report$3,000 more than the average for ers’ work, which is different than colall teachers will be next year.

This massive difference in pay comes in spite of another thing teachers have in common with law enforcement: If you make do without enough people or with people who aren't up to the job, the consequences can be devastating; they might not be life-ending, but they certainly can be life-altering — and not in a good way.

dam inspectors, nurses, mental health counselors and other critical positions for which we couldn't find umns and letters to the editor. I exenough people to do the job. plained our process for choosing and But simply because it's easier to vetting what appears on the opinion raise pay for a smaller group of workpage of our newspaper. How we’d ers doesn't mean it's smart policy. rather run more local voices than naWhat it means — particularly until tionally syndicated writers whom you they come up with other ways to conin many papers around can read vince teachers to stay in the class-the country. how, barring room — isI explained that lawmakers need to submissions that include work harder to figure out potentially a way to libelous or defamatory writing, perraise teachers' pay faster. sonal attacks, misinformation or disinformation or that require extraneously extensive editing, we try to run t imes and demoCrat as much as we can from local voices.

March Sumter9 is diverse, and a city’s hometown newspaper is an opportunity for a diversity of thoughts, people and topics. Hopefully there is discourse and not simply people yelling at each other.

Just like how this conversation Their convergence means calling went. It was so nice to actually talk to attention to three important matters: a stranger and know we were severe weather, wildfires and both pre- listening toburns. the other. I discussed how, scribed also don’t agree withby the writwhile ThisI week as proclaimed S.C. ings she mentioned andisthere’s Gov. Henry McMaster Severeno law us to run every of to requiringAwareness Weather Week,piece a time writing or letter we get, would to provide information andwhat resources that say ifon wecombating only included voices residents extreme with whom the editor agrees idenweather.

The week comes at and a time when the climate is changing from cold to warm as spring nears. Weather experts sometime call this the "mean season" for tornadoes and other extreme weather.

But this week's weather warnings have pertained to another danger: wildfires.

With low relative humidity and

Awareness of weather applies to fire

1947-2019

state such as South Carolina with major forest acreage.

That's why even as there are warntifies with in a paper that serves tens ings about fire, there is continuing of thousands of people? (Let’s also readvice for landowners to take action member this was about an opinto prevent fire damage. ion-based column, so a local voice but McMaster has proclaimed March not a fact-based piece of reporting 2023 Prescribed Fire Awareness from one of our staff journalists …

Month in South Carolina.

Important to of know thefederal difference.)

A coalition state, and She still doesn’t like reading that column, non-governmental land management but she said she appreciated the conorganizations under the umbrella of versation and learning about our prothe South Carolina Prescribed Fire cess andrequested mindset. the proclamation Council my dayoftothe hear more peoIt'd make to raise awareness essential ple having real conversations.

Empharole that fire plays in both the stewyou don’t and sis on real.

Ones whereresources ardship of our natural agree but you of also don’t tryproperty. to force the protection lives and each other’s minds.

Prescribed, or controlled, burning I believe local news canofbefire a vessel is the skilled application for those conversations.

Youfuel don’t under planned weather and conhave totoagree withspecific everything you ditions achieve forest and read.management You shouldn’t.

But because land objectives.

Con-you know what’s going on around you, you trolled burning is an ancient praccan notably be moreused informed whenAmeriyou make tice,

by Native decisions thatmanagement, impact your family, cans for crop insect when you chooseand where to spend your and pest control, hunting habitat money, when you go to the polls. improvement, among other purposes.

Thank you for supporting local The practice continues today under news. the direction of land managers who understand the appropriate weather Kayla Green is executive of The conditions, fuel loads andeditor atmospherItem.for conducting such icSumter conditions burns. These carefully applied fires are an important tool to reduce wildfires, enhance wildlife habitat, and keep the nearly 13 million acres of forested land in South Carolina healthy and productive.

While prescribed burning cannot stop all wildfires, it is the best management tool available for preventing

Haley showed us what leadership looks like

S

tretching across a red backdrop, the blue saltire cross bordered in white is dotted with 13 stars.

To some, that rectangular cloth represents a proud heritage of honor, duty and standing against improbable odds. Others see it as the standard for white supremacy in the American South and link it to racially motivated campaigns of terror and oppression.

Regardless of MATTHEW what the battle flag of the Army HENSLEY of Northern MANAGING EDITOR Virginia means INDEX-JOURNAL to you, the symbol was not abandoned at Appomattox and had found itself flying above South Carolina’s State House.

And in 2015, it was about to come down.

As the state still reeled from the racially motivated killings at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church and the world watched, Gov. Nikki Haley stood at a lectern prepared to speak.

To her left was Tim Scott, the freshly minted Republican senator who hadn’t yet won his first full term in office. To her right, longtime Democratic Rep. Jim Clyburn.

Flanked by South Carolina’s two Black federal lawmakers, she acknowledged the competing views on the Confederate flag.

While she thought many who supported the flag did so without embracing racism, she knew it divided the people of her state and saw it had no place in our state’s future, at least not flying at the seat of power in South Carolina.

And in the wake of those racist slayings in Charleston, she told the Legislature it was time to take this symbol down. At her urging, the General Assembly reconvened, and within weeks of her speech, she signed a law that removed

Did DeSantis get into Tinker Bell’s Pixie Dust?

News

Wednesday, February 22, 2023

COMMENTARY

Why my Uber driver loves Reddit

1917-1998

OUR VIEW

Jack Osteen Co-Owner

COMMENTARY

Executive Editor

Eleanor M. Mundy Judith Mundy Burns

Editorial opinions in this column represent the views of this newspaper.

All other columns, cartoons and Letters to the Editor reflect the views of the individual author. They are not the opinions of this newspaper.

Kyle Osteen Co-Owner

Vince Johnson Publisher

Richard S. Whiting

President and Publisher

A9

Graham Osteen Co-Owner

Jack Osteen Co-Owner

The First Amendment Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.

Locally owned since 1919

Mundy Burns Price

MARCH 18, 2023 - MARCH 20, 2023 |

Jacqueline B. Osteen Co-Owner

Kyle Osteen Co-Owner

Viewpoints

6A

A9

Hubert D. Osteen Jr. 1936-2020 The Sumter Item

Jacqueline B. Osteen Co-Owner

th Carolina 29150 • Founded October 15, 1894

the lights n Europe

|

SATURDAY

the flag from public display at the State House.

The tragedy at Mother Emanuel brought us somber irony. The murderous white supremacist who clung to the Confederate flag as a symbol of his hate thought gunning down unarmed Black parishioners could ignite a race war.

But we didn’t embrace violence.

Instead, our state came together beneath the steeple of that stuccoed-over Gothic Revival church. We sought unity, healing, hope. As he eulogized the late Sen. Clementa Pinckney, the president sang “Amazing Grace.”

And our governor used that poignant moment to bring down an enduring sign of racial division that had flown at the state capitol since 1962 — a symbol that gunman embraced.

This isn’t a lesson in today’s partisan politics. She didn’t shore up support from her base or toe some party line. It certainly didn’t benefit anyone in the donor class.

Instead, she came from a position of pragmatism. She saw a chance to better her state and ease racial divisions. She knew this was right. And without waiting for focus groups and polling data, she acted.

In that moment nearly eight years ago, she was the leader this state needed. More than anything else from her six-year tenure as governor, this is her legacy. It’s the legacy she took with her to the UN and the world stage in 2017.

And it’s what she carries with her today as she seeks the White House.

I won’t pretend to know whether she is the most deserving person seeking the White House this cycle or what chance she has of becoming our nation’s 47th president, but she has shown her capacity to lead and made our state proud.

Contact Managing Editor Matthew Hensley at 864-943-2529 or mhensley@indexjournal.com.

Greenwood man faces attempted murder charge

Index-Journal, Greenwood, S.C. n 3A

SC panel weighs ‘Yankee tax’ on newcomer driving Public tirades from a publicfees official

No doubt many readers and their families have ventured south to Orlando,Index-Journal, FloridaGreenwood, whereS.C. they n 7A spent hundreds of dollars building those magical memories that only Disney can make come true.

Others, perhaps, are not so much into all things Disney and choose not to go. It’s a small world, after own-esque. It wasn’t the slam dunk students and their families.” For the s famed broadcaster Edward but not so small that everyone has an obligation the North Carolina border,” Goldfinchall, Goldfinch also but dismissed AssociatedR.Press of the aforementioned words, it record, thisconcerns concern has been the Murrow once said, “This wasthat aggressive, sprinkled inthing. thoseprevent only time the school askedCinderme for a just might do nobody any do the Maybe Peter Pan, said. “But, at the same time, we thinkto theDisney fees would prospective cute quote marks and had generally correction, which we saw as unneedgood.” that people should have to pay their fair ella, Mickey Mouse and the gang didn’t fill your tea COLUMBIA — Additional fees may South from making the good diction.

ICarolinians decided to test the ed since we made no error.

This column is meant to docuwaters by commenting from our Regardless of what spurred it, that ment an ongoing situation that’sSouth Carolina share when they show up.” be coming for incoming cup as a kid.

Andthe that’s fine. While theme move.

Despite additional $250 Disney drivpage that the writing voice resemlatest comment is what led us to look put us in the unenviable position of Democratic Sen. John Scott said the residents who tostory. legally drive on er’s license and $250accommodations registration paypark tickets and are far bled Keown’s, in part to letresort Keown more deeply at what the account journalists being want part of the I’ll andments, those closehe to him know that we had posted, to especially since we had withhome these twostate’s excerptsroads. from newcomers already become contributorsfrom theirstart new suggested newcomers would free, you have the freedom choose where are paying attention. The subsesuspected Keown might have been Facebook comments: Droves of newcomers still bespend compelled the money saved quent response from theyour accountby involved in a few earlier comments ”They (Index-Journal employees) have made as soon as they move through paymentsyou will dollars. with derision and hadlow someproperty from the account, we found it are just a bunch of middle agedthe ‘men’nation’s fast- like the gas tax. In 2017, the General dripped South Carolina one of through the state’s tax rates.

That why all this raised byandFlorida sharp jabs, is including that I’m justruckus had been more active in our com-Gov. whose only life skill is the cut and est-growing AsWord. legislators respond Assembly approved increases to the gasRon A steady stream of new residents hasrealized. an expert on anything ments than previously At paste feature states. in Microsoft ” DeSantis isin my soown disturbing.

And really unnecShortly after that, however, one point, it even tagged someone ”(Matthew) Hensto climbing population totals, a bill tax by 2-cent increments over a six-year mind. boosted South Carolina’s ranksparticularly as for the essary.

Thewere folks at Disney care comments deleted and the on don’t a post looking job applicants. ley must be a frustratdubbed the “Yankee tax”‘man’ could require span. The additional revenues go toward both account was briefly deactiSince that served aswanting the only comed middle aged U.S. South experiences increased in-mitheitself governor’s political positions, to vated. It’s definitely something that ment from the account that didn’t nothing moreState to freshly mintedwith Palmetto locals to a trust fund dedicated to infrastructurefor gration from around the country.

U.S. makes you go “Hmmm.” And aftertheme obviously attackas us,open our reporting or on.” instead position their parks to any pay $500 totalreport in one-time fees for new maintenance. that, those non-Keown accounts that former de la Howe employees, you Without context, Census Bureau data show that the state all. AKeown-esque different take on “all-incluUnder the measure, county govern-and were posting comjustthe have phrase to hope it wasn’t nefarious. be easy to think registration. driver’s licensesit’dand vehicle added nearly 500,000 people over the ments”went dark until earlier this I emailed Keown and the agency these shared an if you will.

The Senate author.

Finance Committee on ments could levy the increased ratessive, month. spokesperson last week to give them They each last DeSantis, decade forwhose a total population of 5.1 So, bid campaign Tuesday approved the proposal by a 11-6 if voters approved the hikes through a In August, after Keown ratchetedpresidential a chance to weigh in on whether have the same cute MATTHEW quote marks around Over people moved to from this up million. the untruths he posted his who he was involved in posts him as 129,000 afrom man doesn’t back down county referendum held during a Gen-portrays vote.HENSLEY It now heads to the Senate floor. account about me and the in Index, account. As of this writing, I have the gendered noun South Carolina 2019, according to the Republican Sen. we reached outfight, to folks in Colum-to battle seen no response. placeStephen it behind Goldfinch’s eral Election cycle. The resulting fundsfrom any opted with Disney for not MANAGING EDITOR and Census Bureau, former North biaU.S. as a last-ditch effort in hopes with And that’s how we got to today, the capitalize same compound bill INDEX-JOURNAL purports to on the state’s could only go toward local infrastruc-going along toand get along with Ron. it appears, someone would intervene before the 1Aleading story andNow, this bizarre column modifier with a hapSCREENSHOT Carolinians Georgians the ture, public education and greenspace in-migration by ensuring these new we put this out for the public.

We’ d meant to acknowledge that we have lessly omitted hyphen. the mouse glove is off and Disney is prepped for Tim Keown, president of John de la Howe, wrote this since-deleted comment pack. making this plea to his unwittingly become a growing part considered The firstpay was part a comment conservation. neighbors forof the infrastructure on a July 9 alpost from S.C. Rep. John McCravy’s official Facebook page. aboard fight itself, filing against the governor after instead, but the wife ofsuit a Sean of this story. posted in July from the account of Republican Sen. Bennett, who The fee would be paid with newcom-the ready byhasexisting taxpayers. He boardDisney member had liked oneoversight of the There are many reasonable people Timfunded Keown, who only interacted World board the governor supported the effort, said was relevant comment threads so we whohe would, if intorn. my shoes, call for with me and my employer through afees: government employee, publicly has included such actswould as messaging ers’ property taxes.

Residents then compared the tax to impact onenixMy a deal Disney be didn’t know if it’dvoted muchto good.

Keown’sthat firinglet in the wake of this his job as head of the South Carolina making false allegations of me about people who comment on our stories, appointed Under thedo bill’s logic, Bennett questioned present the taxwe’re receipt atshare their timeGovernor’s charges commonly paid by develgrossly unprofessional and unbeSchool for Agriculture at stalking, fabricating and plagiarizing. opting to theselocal effortsDe- understanding is that our concerns answerable only itself over design anda government constructaken lawmakers seriously and itto ledshouldn’t to a coming behavior from why also charge Johnto de lahelp Howe and whosethe publicincreased The former can bepartment a crime, and I of Motor with theVehicles’ public. office to get were opers cover dediscussion with Keown. charged with educating words about us should then be seen hope any boss who actually suspects After the stalking comment, tion feesplans. for placing childrenemployee in schools or new license and sent registration. mands project mightsomeone bringisfor Since then, it seems he’s behaved children. I’m not currently doing as thetheir view ofnew his agency, his agency’s stalkingthe an employee gets Richard an email to Keown Meanwhile, another presidential hopeful, our himself in publicly viewable posts that, although the offense certainly board and the state government police involved instead of hammerexplaining what we thought led to road tolls in new neighborhoods.

Republican Sen. Katrina Shealy noted from his own account. But then public facilities. rises to that level,has especially of South Carolina. While there’s ing out a social media post. The the allegation — a colorful story lead own former governor Nikki Haley, torninathepage “Growth easy to manage, that manythat active-duty military members For Goldfinch, the blasting dynamiclatter is two unfair when we had a story is thatnot stirred broader context ofparhis words’ grownothing new about people are serious allegations that described a residence, with the from her days asthis governor she invited Boesome controversy month, ingwhen liability to his agency others on Facebook,constituency Keown is in the are substantiinformation coming Google ticularly inearlier your community, certainly in and the make South Carolina theirfrom permanent to his growing in career-ending coastal when the Brickles’ account reemerged taxpayers who fund it. kind of role where you’d expect him ated, both in my profession and in Street View. That was in April and to leave State and head to South my ” said Bennett who also Georgetown County who already foot career residence aftershould getting transferred to theing to call forcommunities, a boycottWashington of the Index One person who noticed the to behave himself on social media Keown’s former as a university have opened the door to — something that’ dabecoastal surprising tirades urged andShe’s my employer — much I’m expected to — but employee.

Keown to reach out if he had beautiful Charleston.

It me did. now represents district, adding: “But the bill forasthe services utilized by people state. Goldfinch said he would bespecific openCarolina’s it’s a memo he seems to have missed These aren’t charges to make light- concerns about our reporting. It also coming from someone who lives and to sue for defamation. While I think where it stop,invitation I guess, isto my the Disney. just inmoving into theofarea. adding exemptions those situ-extended works outsidedoes of our same coverage area, there is a case —quesand since Keown’s his past two decades taxpayly and are certainlyto ones I’d hope tax should have let himin know that we butAs on brand for Keown. knowledge of me my employer er-funded employment someone would bring to me, Execu- are paying attention.

“We’re not trying in topublic build a wall across ations. tion. ” aside, an if she’s reading this, we’and d like to point I’m not sure if this reaction is come through his employment, his education. tive Editor Richard Whiting or this Also in April, I scheduled a sitout to our former governor that a Disney a kick-them-while-they’re-down agency might share in anytheme liability The second came in March from paper’s ownership if they were about down with the school’s new public approach that we can expect moving — I am not pursuing that route at the joint account of Curt and Jenniany of our journalists. They aren’t information officer in hopes of park County wouldnorbe great forwardin or ifGreenwood it’s related to something the moment, is the Index.for our fer Brickle, who live beyond the edge accusations to hurl haphazardly on clearing the air. He subsequently else. The only other thing that I am, out however, performing my that of our coverage area but happen to social media — especially when you exploded on us because we dared economy.

Surely wecomes can work a good deal duty as a journalist and chronicling be friends with Keown. That account can’t substantiate them because they report how many days it took for the to mind is that we omitted part of wonderful lake. ofItacertainly would a canned quote fromour Keown that the behavior man who receives has also attacked a few former John aren’t true. Yet that’s what we’ve seen school to say what its board voted on incorporates seemed a bit PR-heavy and implied $126,500 aNashville year in his de la Howe employees and brought from Keown, an agency head in open session. covered that re- around-theOct. 7. who Heas was hospitalized withWeappropriate including cut down onmedia drive time for athe number oftaxpayvacationers Associated Press that a lawsuit against the school er-funded position, in this case as in knowledge that clearly came from has already been sued twice over his action as part of a broader piece on for about two weeks, andthehis care.

Banner Theof the Associated in and impeded around Carolina. somehow the South school’s and part weirdest experience I’ve someone connected to the agency. words. school’sclock response to a Freedom mission, which drew the ire of that had as a journalist.

And I won’t let I have a story detailing that side of We’ve worked for months to ease of Information Act request and I Three videos wereThat filed Ron as DeSantis, NASHVILLE, Tenn. — penis was reattached. HowevPress intervened to with protect a governor presidential things on the front page. tensions, or at least stop some of the won’t rehash it here, but I pulled out aforementioned public information anyone bully me from doing my job, er, media weeks later, evidence Hodges’ case byhe put Graphic videos filed in a social public access to records the account officer.

Or, as it: “The story no matter whose Facebook Regardless of whether these are activity that’sHodges’ generally penis of that meeting because itin seemed to aspirations and who got married atinDisney World, publishedafter in the Index-Journal it comes from. dots we should connect, serves seen as unbecoming from a publicremoved me the school acting in on goodTuesday had to be surgically hiswasn’t attorneys Tennessee court onthis Tuesday case. has pick athe fight choseto to amputate secondwith inde- the theme park that for as another part of the strange ride official, but have yet to find success. faith. afterofnecrosis set in, accordshow death row inmate Managing Editor Matthew Hensley pendent clause of the full compound we’veataken during our coverage of Because some of the oddities In June, the Facebook account of decades has fulfilled the dreams of children and is out of the office this week for the sentence to eliminate the agency’s de lajust Howereturned and how it spends what seems to be an ongoing someone close to Keown — not the to court records. whoJohn has from of ing holiday but can be reached at mhensbuilt vacation memories thousands of families emphasis on moving ahead with our for your money. campaign by a government employ- Brickles — blasted us on Facebook When Hodges returned the hospital repeatedly telling ee to attack That journey has included Keown, and discredit us, which in a comment that seemed very Ke- mission to serve our very deserving ley@indexjournal.com.

— plus the dollars Disney brings his state — rather officers that he is in pain as to the prison infirmary after than focus on real issues facing our nation is ... well, they strap him so tightly to a his initial hospital stay, he it’s just downright goofy. bed that his arms turn purple. was placed naked on a thin

Lakelands

Wednesday, December 21, 2022

A

Videos show inmate’s pain as officers strap him down

Support local news Yes, I am a pirate, two hundred years too late The cannons don’t thunder, there’s nothin’ to plunder I’m an over-forty victim of fate Arriving too late, arriving too late — Jimmy Buffett, “A Pirate Looks at Forty”

A

head of my first visit to Greenwood nearly eight years ago, Executive Editor Richard Whiting told me to make sure I didn’t look like I was coming for a job interview.

I listened.

I left a white Oxford shirt and yellow tie hanging in my closet, instead donning khaki slacks and a black polo with the logo of a small daily in Western North Carolina.

As our extended conversation meandered from IJ’s back conference room to the back room of Howard’s, the newsroom pondered the cause of our clandestine MATTHEW encounter. Reporters fixated on that logo, and a quick HENSLEY Google search led them to MANAGING EDITOR a large corporate-owned INDEX-JOURNAL newspaper in Florida that bore a similar name.

Knowing of no open positions, they came to the conclusion that this chronically unkempt then-31-year-old represented a potential buyer and that the Index was on the verge of joining some mega-media conglomerate — a passing hullabaloo that likely dissipated before I even crossed the state line.

On my next trip to the Emerald City, I met Richard so I could get the necessary paperwork for the mandatory drug test. Since caffeine is legal in this state, I easily passed. And while my wife suggested meeting someone I barely knew in a McDonald’s parking lot ostensibly to have someone else harvest my urine was a “red flag,” I still decided to join the staff as the No. 2 editor.

It’s been a wild eight years of slinging copy and piling up awards. We’ve strived to hold government to account, pushed for bond

down to a concrete slab underneath. The room where he was housed had no TV, radio or other mental stimulation, and the lights were always on, according to court records.

Lawyers for the state have argued that he was provided

“I looked forward to

GOVERNMENT CONTACTS GREENWOOD TRUE TRIANGLE TRUEFloor, Greenville, S.C. 29601 Gov. Henry McMaster VALUE HARDWARE VALUE HARDWARE

Office of the Governor Phone: 864-250-1417 1814 Montague Ave. Ext. St., 1500 Kateway Website: lgraham.senate.gov 1100 Gervais Greenwood Columbia, S.C. 29201 Greenwood 864-229-7181 Phone: 803-734-2100 864-229-2005 U.S. Sen. Tim Scott Website: governor.sc.gov 104 Hart Senate Office Building Governor’s Mansion Washington, D.C. 20510 800 Richland St. Phone: 202-224-6121 Columbia, SC 29201 GREENVILLE: 104 S. Main St., Suite 803, Greenville, S.C. 29601 Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette Phone: 864-233-5366 1100 Gervais St., Website: scott.senate.gov Columbia, S.C. 29201

If you hadn’t read it in the Index, would you know that some local leaders had been falling short of the law in how they conducted some meetings?

If you hadn’t read it in the Index, would you know how local sports teams were doing? What happened at local public meetings? A spate of local goings-on?

And while social media has become a great way to tout people’s accomplishments, there’s still something special about being featured on the front of your local daily. You don’t have to take my word for it. Just look at the Facebook comments and shares on the Index’s front pages.

The truth is, newspapers are as relevant and important now as ever, this one included.

And without them, communities would know less about each other and themselves.

If you don’t already, consider helping the Index-Journal stay vibrant as a subscriber or advertiser. Or, buy a gift subscription for a friend or relative so they can enjoy South Carolina’s best small-town daily journalism.

You won’t regret it.

And if you’re reading this online and live far from Greenwood — perhaps in the Midwest or on the West Coast, or maybe wherever John de la Howe stashes its emails — and the Index-Journal isn’t your community’s newspaper, consider supporting your local publication.

As for me, while I will miss working at the Index and appreciate my eight years at Greenwood’s venerable daily, I’m looking for my next adventure. I might find my way to another newspaper, or maybe an online publication. Or perhaps I’ll step away from being a professional journalist for a bit.

Either way, I don’t plan to be a stranger.

Heck, you might see me on America’s widest main street at the next Festival of Discovery.

I’ll be in an Aloha shirt and look like I’m on the prowl for some cheeseburger in paradise, not interviewing for a job.

Matthew Hensley was managing editor at the Index-Journal. You can reach him at reportermatthewhensley@gmail.com.

Shine on, you crazy diamond

TUESDAY’S FOR THOSE WHO MISSED THEM vinylPUZZLES mattress and strapped

Henry Hodges is suing the Tennessee Department of Correction over his treatment by prison after what his Daily staff Crossword attorney has tosaid brought you was by a psychotic episode last October.

Hodges slit his wrists and then cut off his penis after he was put on suicide watch

reform, documented all-too-pervasive shootings, even laid to rest rumors about what one fast-food establishment might serve between its buns — and had plenty of fun along the way in the Palmetto State’s best little city.

But, as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end and my journey here ended Friday. My position was eliminated as part of a needed cost-saving measure that preserved the rest of the newsroom.

I wouldn’t call it a surprise. The newspaper industry has been bleeding for a while as it faces increasing competition for advertising and audience while trying to fend off the pressures of inflation. And as publications across the country have emptied their newsrooms to balance budgets, No. 2 editors have been among the first to go.

It’d be easy to dwell on Jimmy Buffett’s observation on the occupational hazard of being a self-professed pirate: “My occupation’s just not around.”

But this isn’t the first rough patch for newspapers. We’ve seen recessions and depressions that forced some publishers to close or accept produce and other trade items en lieu of subscription fees. A number of broadsheets shuttered during the Civil War because their editors and writers were drafted into service.

Far from ending the industry, these events were just turbulence, just bumps and humps in the road. After each, newspapers roared back.

They’ll do it again, although increasingly through websites and e-editions instead of newsprint.

Why? Because in this environment rife with partisan news and a bevy of misinformation and disinformation, newspapers remain as important as ever — especially for local coverage.

Think about it.

If you hadn’t read it in the Index, would you know about the consternation between Greenwood County and state Sen. Billy Garrett over appointing magistrates?

If you hadn’t read it in the Index, would you know that a Northside student was accosted in a classroom?

M

att Hensley is a relatively quiet guy. Well, more so outside the newsroom. This might have something to do with previous newspaper work that had him holed up in a room handling websites and having more interaction with a monitor, mouse and keyboard than with human beings. But it’s not as if he never hit the pavement and covered news. He did and still does.

It was his combination of skillsets, along with former

reporter with as strong a passion for government transparency as any I know. He’s also proven himself to be a good judge of stories, a good editor and mentor and a real big help on the digital side of the operation. You know, all that website back-end stuff and social media platforms.

Friday was his last day with us. I trust you’ve read his column about his departure. If not, please do so now. I hate to see him go, but I know this much. Someone is going to gain a great asset when they hire Matt. Maybe he will remain in the news business. I sure hope he

I was born a male. I had parents, he has parents. He’s married, I’m married. He has a daughter, I have two. He got into journalism, I got into journalism. He appreciates Pink Floyd, I appreciate Pink Floyd. He’s tall and I’m — not.

I’ll miss Matt, even though he ignores my emails and constantly reminds me how much younger he is, which typically comes up when discussing news events from years past. “You know, I wasn’t even born when …” Yeah, Matt. Thanks.

I was hard at work at my first newspaper

KELLY DUNCAN | INDEX-JOURNAL

While watches are a big Father’s Day seller for a lot of jewelry stores, the employees at Tidwell Jewelers said some customers gravitate toward necklaces like the one shown.

COLUMN WRITING SHOPPERS From page 1A

Their most popular seller? A classic watch.

“Watches are always big for Father’s Day, and money Saturday, 22, 2023design clips withJuly a personal or sports clocks with their favorite team. Some men wear jewelry, but it’s more about the

watches. A lot of men like to collect watches,” she said.

The same can be said for the staff at Tidwell Jewelers — watches are one of the go-to items while gifts such as knives, wallets and silicone rings are close runners-up.

There’s the saying that the quickest way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and at Thayers, owner Taylor Tucker

DAILY UNDER 7,000 DIVISION

Chris Trainor Index-Journal

News

We see you, dads

that Father’s Day is coming up.

“The guys love to go straight to the recliner section. We try to keep some on the floor and we try to offer a variety of prices,” Tucker said. “People get excited that they can shop at any price point.”

the time, he described AI as “kind of scary but exciting,” adding: “We will just have to see where that leads.”

In addition to the AI rule, the Recording Academy announced that there have been swift changes made to other categories: now, to win a nomination for the album of the year category, a music creator has to account for at least 20% of the work.

Index-Journal, Greenwood, S.C. n 3A

Contact Kelly Duncan at 864-943-5648 or on Twitter @ KellyWriter1993.

I

Find your special place

t’s OK to seek out your special place, he comes down for a few days each summer. especially when the summer starts its It’s the type of place where you can charter inevitable fade. a boat along Big Bay Creek and ride out are still firmly For the ones who proofread Oh, It’s a weekend for the dads youcertainly scraped we a knee when youin the midst into the South Edisto Inlet, where a pod of ave yourselves a weekin terms ofand, the formal dolphins will just about swim right up to you.

English class essays and fire offof summer end, dads. This one’s who volunteer to help coach were a youngster decadescalendar technical for you. geography questions the night later, are still(the their kid’s baseball or soccer there to servelast as day of sum- You can wind along up St. Pierre Creek and mer isn’t until September) see fishermen looking to catch that night’s It’s for all the ones who keep or softball team, even if that before a big test. And it’s for a sounding board and offer and the thermometer (after a supper, and take in sweeping views of the the SUV hurtling forward on the ones who race off to Publix advice on careers means helping lug the equipand family mild spring, the temperatures natural beauty of the Lowcountry in a place those long family road trips, at the crack of dawn because ment around, keeping the matters and lately everything in like an oven). that somehow still seems largely untouched have been with an eye on that estimatorange slices and juice boxes on — surprise! — their kid signed between.

But while the actual by the larger forces of the outside world. And, ed arrival time on the GPS up to bring potato chips to the ice, and making sure none of Happy Father’s Daysays to all calendar it’s the very much if you’re lucky, your captain will be the mayor. screen. The class party, a fact that hadn’t theSaturday, young players wander Index-Jou May 13, 2023 off. stillThanks summer,for more dads out there. al- and more (Literally, Edisto Beach Mayor Crawford ones who been mentioned until the And it’s for those dads in South Carolina the school Moore captained our charter last week.) ways showing up. We see you. push just ROBERT JORDAN morning of the| INDEX-JOURNAL event. watching from the bleachers,PHOTOS BY calendar says otherwise. It It’s where crowds of families pile into 3 CHRIS exits seems every district is Gulls Creamery ice cream shop each summer Youths play withaafew limbo stick Friday Sunshinearound Housetheir presented a luau to mark the approach This is a weekend for all tiesasloosened Chris Trainor is alike conTRAINOR further before charting its own path these night as the sun begins to fade. Excited kids kinds of dads. The ones who of the school year. necks after a day at the office, tributing columnist for many the operating stopping for days, with stand on tiptoes, straining to press their face drive diesel pickup trucks and CONTRIBUTING yelling encouragement for the Index-Journal.

Contact him at on schedules that bring back against the glass of the ice cream freezers to a bathroom sign out there on and 12 and waselectric beloved byCOLUMNIST the8 ones who drive cars. team and,he occasionally, a pithy ChrisTrainorSC@yahoo.com. students much earlier thanGREENWOOD in take inTRUE the colorful confections TRIANGLE TRUE held within, break request retort to anthe scoreboard This wasthe back Theplayers. ones who know per-in umpire’s call. is just a the VALUE as HARDWARE VALUEand HARDWARE You can follow him on Twitter the old days. sunburned moms fished-out dads try from the back little the lateto 1980s verystand early fect place set upand a deer This is for allfaded. those dads — 1814 Montague Ave. Ext. 1500 Kateway Greenwood District 50 returns to class next in vain to corral everyone into something that @ChrisTrainorSC. Views seat, and who My Imemories the man, 1990s.

Even though he was CHRIS and the ones who have been and yes, was one ofofthem in Greenwood Greenwood week, on July 26.this Meanwhile, students in the resembles an organized line. ed, By the endisofusually the at about six der expressed in column are prioritize traordinary occasions” the govwhich thankfully, are—not. in his forward late 60s to and early By DAMIAN DOMINGUEZ 864-229-7181 864-229-2005 looking that new70s Abbeville April in Atlanta accompaTRAINOR District return the following night the young workers the counter ofSchool the writer only and do quickness ernment takes this step.

Asidebehind weeks.

S earliertothis week, exhibit at theattime, Mr. PeteThe would thoseddominguez@indexjournal.com the museum. nyingOne theirnight daughters Taylor week, on Aug. 1.

My daughter’s district in look as if they’ve been in an ice cream battle, CONTRIBUTING not represent the newspaper’s and efficiency Swift from finishing their work on “It’s time that we agree on wo I found myself sitting one ones hitwho countless groundsuits balls wear tailored concerts on the ErasinTour.

Lexington goes back the week after that, on their shirts splotched with remnants of chocoCOLUMNIST for any meal opinion.

With less than a week off, theC2-204530 the state budget, the governor the best bill we can get,” he the of those tailgating and flyand ballsthe toones the players everyday who still Aug. The onesfolding who waited in 9. late and Superman and Rocky Road. stops, because those state Legislature will be called Legislature said.you “(House Speaker) Murrell “ chairs behind the backstop during practice Bulls and worked wear that Chicago 1996 impossibly long lines at And so, with those opening school bells said the And Edisto iswill the tackle place where can catch you always want to make it to the merch stand for back in to work starting Tuesenact stricter bondonproSmithboard said bring at athe Claude championship constantly –T-shirt. and patiently we packed the car this week and a bill tosome serious waves the boogie out your pillows, tha It’s for looming, T-shirt, the destination in “good time.” who traded Eras bracelets day. visions for people charged with bring your supper, we’re staying sol Simmons — with the pitchers.

He was on beach access No. 5, when the tide is rising goodbye to students will or headed for our special place, to spend time the dads who havewho beards

By ROBERT JORDAN This one’s for all those The hit ofitsthe final crimes, andisajust billright. thatWhere here you untilcan weget pass that bill.” con Dixie Youthgo totattoos serious about andLegislature family in one last violentand the wind school well asbaseball welcome rjordan@indexjournal.com orasearrings, or nonebut of with friends and who sang along to “Cruel dads who are the lords of the day of That the regwoulda ban abortions at about As for cold the budget, McCra- abo Complex onnew students. brought a light touch to the summertime getaways of 2023. place flounder sandwich and an extremely Martha Sorrow those things, at all.

Summer” at the top of their (864) 980-1505 backyard during summer ular session six weeks of pregnancy. vythe saidsunset it’s not unusual that it unt Highland whole thing.

I can still see his beverage at Whaley’s, or watch over Youths grill said goodbye to sumTuesday, the center Father’s Daywill arrives is, of course, my beloved Edisto Island, that lungs. I see you, fellow Swiftie On Indeed, cookouts on Thursday The special session begins at gets finished after the regular T Terrace in offer haircuts smile and his mer in wetand andgatherings. wild style. The Dads. forhear boys.

A chuckle nail this weekend.

It’s a time to cel- rural oasis along the South Carolina coast just the creek from the windows in the dining fathers who will passionately without what’ s noon Tuesday, and McMaster session.

It’s usually handled ide Abbeville. My south of Charleston. roomRealty at Pressley’s. It’s the place where a cold now. also will visit to Leis, grass skirts and a tiki Action ebrate the dads who, through It’s for the fathers9-year-old who stay technician an oldahouse of key lime pie from Market sine 500B choose a side in everlast-of said heslice doesn’t expect it will goKing’s through a is sine die resolution, spe was, ofshe course, We’ve got a place there,called bar heralded thethe approach work onAnd girls’there fingernails, Montague Ave., Greenwood it all, have continued to be a on stilts that sits on a dirtdie up late helping make sure the (864) road.

There’s a Office: waiting in the refrigerator after athe longtwo chambers sio resolution. past the end942-0021 offor theyou month. but since ing vs.year natural thecharcoal new school as thegas Sunsaid. the El Camino. Mr. Pete nephew Jack’s for the class scienceteam,They force our lives,forday after Fax: (864) 942-8999 screened-in porch with rocking day in the and where house on stilts shine House on keep Graceone Street allinare These chairs reso-where “Certainly, wesurf, knew about it thewere unable to Angel agree& Carla on such 202 debate, and who eye volcano baseball drove a ready Chevy Elschool, Camino, *Each office independently owned and operated CHRIS (864) 980-4616 project is going to work corday, year after year.

The ones everyone seems to want to congregate, with starts swaying when the kids have a dance-off treated witha aperfect luau.

Waterswhich said. folks She recalled one age lutions, com- ahead of time,” said Rep. John a resolution, it will handled firs on thosestudents steaks for the Blue Gills, of a certain (864) be 980-3401 TRAINOR JOHN rectly. who were there for you when Christmas lights strung up around the top in the living room after dinner.

The staff wanted to do student last year who was almonly passed McCravy, R-Greenwood. “The in this special session instead. Ma medium-well cook, while also had a game, will remember was basically MCCRAVY here and there. growing short.

The think the budget up something to give thea kids ready part reading a first grade CONTRIBUTING before the end governorSummer agrees days withareleader“I don’t simultaneously firing foot-a one of the last car, at part truck.

A car and rocking chairs scattered two blocks the shore, bell is ... about ring. Find your has special fun off time before go back level. All thea kids COLUMNIST list from the matters thewhen ship inschool the House thattothere process ever really been sio ball the deckthey to the kids to in few of the seawith truckenjoy bedgames, in the back,Thoughofit’ssession, the tide is high at night you can sit on the place. school ... and back but Waters recalled Legislature can return to take are two major issues we need the yardnext andweek keeping up with son, and I had essentially.

Mr.one Petegirl would porch and hear the waves so clearly it sounds Tina Beskie into books, said Asia Tate, an who, if given a choice, would to address before we goishome. ” the conversation from the othtraveled up from Lexington to Vehicle’s often pick up players before like theup.

For Your Chris Trainor a contributing columnist (912) 257-5403 ocean’s in the front yard. director at Sunshine Jessica Sinkovics holds onto visit the book center.

But on Thursday, the sesHe said last-minute efforts check it out. erassistant dads who inevitably gather practice and drive them for the Index-Journal.

Contact him at ChrisTire & Maintenance There’s Sharon a tidalMulkey creek in the backyard, one House. She helped supervise a child during wet and wild fun Summer activities include sion a Senate abortionYou can follow him on Some experiences are field trips around wherever there’s grill (864)ended 554-5737without a sine die to re-write home afterward, and in those TrainorSC@yahoo.com. where egrets regularly hang out, their long Trust games and got soaked as she at a Friday luau at Sunshine Needs, to The Greenville and resolution.

On the Friday, Gov. because there was lit- Views expressed in remarkably resilient. Watching smoke. days, we didn’t think any- necks poking Twitter @ChrisTrainorSC. just above swampy, tall bill came embraced youths as they raced House. even instruction in leadership HOMETOWN Henry McMaster took a step tle chance of passing “Human kids play youth baseball is one This is the column for the thing of riding in the back this column are those of the writer only and do Bea Walker grass. There’s a little dock back there, and my down inflatable waterslides. skills, she said. that hasn’t since when Life Protection which opinion. them.

Likeleis so and many others, PROFESSIONALS not representAct, the” newspaper’s fathers work showofoff truck bed ofenjoyed the El Camino, (864) 980-3243 friend Frank sets crabbeen trapsmade in the creek colorful grass Kids who tookhustle full from advantage, Older students two #125917 2002 — he passed an executive tried MLS to ban abortion from I played rec league baseball inflatable toswinging school auditoriums for and skirts. the wind cutting through plastic golf clubs waterslides.

They 105 Barrington in Creekside!

Reduced to $430,900. order to call legislators back to Court conception.

Instead, McCravy throughout my youth – on that don’t see folks orchestra concerts Director Michelle Waters occasionally hittingand theschool balls, formedour twohair. linesYou as staff memWe Carry All Large private lot to on re-write a quiet cula de sac.

Columbia to round off some worked Senate same field where I was bers lifted riding in the back trucks plays.

Sunshine House works playing at a tiki bar that staff said very them in and outofthe Major Brands Sharon Mulkey (864) 554-5737 unfinished business. bill that bans abortion when watching my nephew – and I anymore, and that’s probably For the ones who take shaky had briefly left unattended, with up to 98 youths from 6 pools or held them as they shot 1ST OF A SE Tires Denise Medford McMaster said it’s only in “ex- fetal cardiac activity is detectold up to the fifth follow grade.Of could immediately the bending under a limbo stick weeks out from the top andBut, slid gosh, into it was a good thing. cam videos of their daughters 864-993-6633 Ridge Drive, was arrested and charged From staff reports CHRISTMAS FUN The luau is a chance to say occasionally dancing to the bottom. throughline from then to now. fun back then. atand dance recitals and pose for with children/cruelty to children (torOh, certainly there are difMr. Pete has been gone for pictures during the hectic, A Greenwood woman is facing ture, deprivation) on July 17. ferences. For one thing, these quite a while now — he died crowded moments right after A Greenwood County Sheriff ’s Ofcharges after officers spoke with an 808 Montague Avenue days it seems every player, inGreenwood 2008 at the age of 89 — but those recitals, just before ev• 229-3600 employee of the Department of Social fice report said that in February a childBubba Harvin even at 9 and 10 years old, I still remember him all these eryone heads out for celebrawww.mmtireco.com Services in reference to a complaint of complained of back pain and said she (864) 992-9090 brings their own personal bag years later. Batting practory pizza. was beaten. At that time, no bruises or AMBER L. child abuse on March 16. of expensive equipment to the tice and hitting grounders.

By DAMIAN DOMINGUEZ Sophie Layne marks were found.

Amber Lyne Davis, 34, of 124 Oak DAVIS stealing a golf cart and taking From reports (864)staff 993-3082 ddominguez@indexjournal.com games. Shiny bats, personThat balance between being

H

FIRST PLACE

said some of her bestselling items are her barbecue sauces and peanuts.

“We like to have areas dedicated to the dads and things dad might like,” Tucker said.

She said foot traffic has been steady, but as people have stopped to view topiaries, they’ve come in to browse. Social media has helped spread the word and reminded people

gible in any category,” it said, under new “Artificial Intelligence (AI) Protocols” released Friday.

The rule was set following the semiannual academy’s board of trustees meeting last month, where it was determined that work that features elements of AI are eligible, as long as a human creator is responsible for a “meaningful” contribution to the music

Lakelands | State

We called him Mr. Pete McMaster brings lawmakers b

T Let the sunshine in as school year begins

into session over unfinished b

ARE YOUR TIRES IN GOOD SHAPE?

Saluda Co Schoo District Edu Foundat

Greenwood woman faces abuse charge

Veteran groups helping homeless

Greenwood man sentenced to 21 years in string of thefts

Reading the columns I could picture my old little league coach and thought about the local legend the field was named after back in my hometown. I could envision being on Edisto Island, a place I’ve never heard of. The writer took me on an adventure in each column. Well done. alized helmets and on and

Veterans organizations are on. When I was a kid, we all rallying to help the area’s homeused the equipment that was less population. provided by the city recreation In a meeting room Wednesdepartment, all of which was day at the Greenwood County Crematory lugged to the game by the VeteransFuneral AffairsHome office,& mem-

coach in a large canvas satchel

serious and having a quick smile. Driving us home after practice in the El Camino and stopping at the Fast Fare for a Coke. And I remember him standing outside First Baptist Church on Sunday mornings,

it to a stash house in Abbeville A Greenwood man is head- County.

JR McCravy Officers used cellphone ed to prison for more than two (864) 554-3807 pictures on Hawes’ decades after pleading guilty data and MLS #125626 phone to connect him toSC other to charges 107 Champion Green, Greenwood, 29649 Wendy & Emily (864) 377-2076 that had been reported s t e m m i n g thefts NEW CONSTRUCTION (864) 590-2551 by residents.

Police also2.5 Baths from more Start living the lake life at Stoney Point!were 4 Beds, Donation of $45 ActionableRealty to make contact with peo-

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FIRST PLACE Issac Bailey The Sun News Issac Bailey does what the best columnists do best - makes the reader sit up in his chair and pay attention. His no-holds-barred language and take-no-prisoners opinions act like a cold slap in the face. You have my attention, Mr. Bailey. And now I can’t sit still.

HUMOR COLUMN WRITING

OPEN DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Margaret Evans Lowcountry Weekly

Chris Trainor Index-Journal News

Saturday, January 14, 2023

Saturday, November 26, 2022

News

Saturday, July 15, 2023

E

veryone eventually reaches a point in life where there are little markers that give them perspective on age.

The hair gets increasingly gray. The joints start making unearthly popping noises.

For me, there have recently been changes in eyesight.

I’ve worn CHRIS glasses since I TRAINOR was in middle CONTRIBUTING school, with COLUMNIST virtually no changes in my prescription through the years.

But now, at 44 (I’ll be 45 in October), I’ve increasingly found myself having to actually remove my glasses, or prop them up on the top of my head, when I’m reading a book. So when I’m in the living room in the evening, I spend all night removing my glasses to read, then putting them back on to see whatever’s on the TV. To the casual observer it probably looks like I’ve got some kind of OCD tick.

But few things throw my age into sharper relief than hearing my 14-year-old daughter Charley ask questions about the pop culture figures of my generation. She doesn’t mean it in harm, but there is a particular question she has asked – on multiple occasions – that is like an absolute sniper shot.

Not long ago, we were riding along in the car when the song “Step by Step” by New Kids on the Block came on the radio. A blast from the past, certainly, for those of us who came of age in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Since my daughter, like most teens, is a fan of numerous pop artists of her era, I thought I’d offer some perspective on the New Kids on the Block song that was playing on the radio, which was a part of the pop tapestry of my own generation.

“You know, when I was just about your age these guys were the biggest group on the planet for a couple years,” I said.

She listened to the song and thought for a second, then offered the sniper shot.

“Are they still alive?” she asked.

DO JUST ONE THING We all know that smoking cigarettes is terrible for our health, but it’s awful for our environment as well. Cigarettes aren’t easily biodegradable or compostable, and they contain chemicals that

I nearly jerked the car off the side of the road. Are they still alive? What?

Before we go on, let me note that the members of New Kids on the Block — Danny Wood, Jordan Knight, Jon Knight, Donnie Wahlberg and Joey McIntyre — are all very much alive and range in age from 50 to 54. The band still tours and has shows coming up in August.

But that question from my daughter – “Are they still alive?” – gave me pause and left me good-naturedly shaking my head.

Nothing will drive home the fact that I’m getting older quite like telling my daughter about a band that was popular when I was her age, and her first thought is that, if they were popular when I was a kid, then they must be either a) dead or b) reasonably near death.

A similar thing happened toward the end of the school year, when she was studying “Romeo and Juliet” at school.

One night over dinner I mentioned there was a movie version starring Leonardo DiCaprio that came out when I was a teenager.

“Was it in black and white?” my daughter asked.

I almost choked on my dinner, but managed to compose myself long enough to point out that DiCaprio is only a few years older than me.

“Right, right,” she said. “So ... was it in black and white?”

After picking myself up off the floor, I assured her the 1996 film was, indeed, in color.

And that, at the ripe old age of 48, DiCaprio is still alive and kicking today, just like her old man.

I suppose perspective is everything when it comes to age. But no matter what my daughter thinks, I’m not that old yet. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got to go fire down a multivitamin and prop my glasses up on my head to read a book.

Chris Trainor is a contributing columnist for the Index-Journal. Contact him at ChrisTrainorSC@yahoo.com.

You can follow him on Twitter @ChrisTrainorSC. Views expressed in this column are those of the writer only and do not represent the newspaper’s opinion.

News

Index-Jou

Panic from the passenger seat

P

eople have all kinds of ways to find a It is a physical, full-body reaction. She sits up A nonprofit is seeking build thrill. straight in her seat,toextends both legs out into about 70 aget was one of those text mouths.

Some might go skydiving, launchthe far reaches of the floorboard, then grabs the restricted, messages that seemingly It’s sort of like when your ing themselves out of an airplane and leaving center console with her left hand in what can one-bedroom came out of nowhere, in car breaks down on the side of apartments the way only a certain type the highway and, despite the fate to a parachute strapped to their back. Or only be described as ina the death grip. old Edgewood of parent-to-parent text at fact you have no mechanical maybe they get on a rollercoaster such as Space And with her Middleright Schoolhand, of course, she 9:17 p.m. can. inclination, you still pop the building in Ninety “Charley says she feels sick,” hood and look at the engine. In Mountain at Disney, hurtling along the tracks reaches up and grips that handle above the my wife texted me recently, those instances I always return Six. in the darkness, not knowing passenger side door.

The internet tells me those DAMIAN DOMINGUEZ | referring to to a single phrase: “Yep, that’s INDEX-JOURNAL our 14-yearan engine.” what turns or spins are coming handles are called “assist grips” or, more simply, old daughter.

Finally, it’s time for the mednext. Or perhaps your thrill “grab handles.” But the web also notes that peo“Like a cold icine. I don’t know about you, is coming but we keep a robust number comes on that roaring river up ple — and my wife would most certainly fall in on. Nose is of cold medicines on-hand at in the foothills, as you desperthis category — refer to them as a “panic bar” running.” seemingly all times. Kids cold In some medicine, adult cold medicine, ately try to guide a raft through or a “Jesus handle.” It’s the handle she grabs houses, such daytime stuff, nighttime stuff, live there,she and there is a noise clause in seniors to rushing live independently and age-in- willwhen a message turbulent, rapids. thinks she’s going home to meet the cough drops and so on.

CHRIS place,” she said. their lease agreement, she said. would simply It is of note that, in a world TRAINOR Or,Bethune if yousaid arethelike wife run While LordHaddock because I pulled into Starbucks too fast.

From page 1A youthmy programs said there’s a $100,000 be a statement that is ever changing, where CONTRIBUTING out of the old school gym could continue, purchase agreement buy the building of fact. But technology and innovation and Christina, you could apparently What hertovisceral reaction accomplishes, COLUMNIST nonprofit must run the building in order and offer a chance for inter-generational from Hamphill, any funds transferred to in our house, sweeping social movements get aactivities white-knuckle, full-on the fortitude of the center to apply for certain federal Housing and between the seniors there and the himother have to than go backtesting into his nonprofit, to it’s like the Bat and new discoveries keep us HODGES | INDEX-JOURNAL Urban Development grant funds LINDSEY that will students coming school. by rid- ensure he doesn’t personally fromof a Chevy Tahoe, Signal. It means it’s time for in a constant state of hurpanic thrill rideafter simply console and grab profit handle make this project possible.

Mary Ann Goodman, who is on the the venture. Though the project is still in its me to swing into action. tling forward, there are some ing in a carcommission, with measked to whether Publix. isstages, thattheitplanning nearlycommission gives me If the project goes forward, Greenwood planning the early gavea heart attack. I’ll be And by “swing into action” things that remain steadfastly A pickup truck wentrudimentary off road Friday the afternoon andone into the Hodges Cemetery, taking one corner of the fencing with that it and County Planning Director Carol Coleman nonprofit ends up running the comCONTRIBUTING I mean taking a recommendation to approve the zoning same. And of those First, let me preface things driving along, totally normal, at a legal speed said on they expect about 70 one-bedroom, plex would rent the school out or allow on- change on Tuesday, bringing the project razingmeasures some oftothe fence posts.

Thethings extent of the was unclear Friday afternoon. diagnose and treat is that kidsdamage hate taking COLUMNIST that Iofam, for theof res- oneand withto plenty ofitsdistance between me and one-bath apartment units, restrictedby to noting site consumption alcohol outside the encroaching illness. In step closer applying for essential medicine. people age 62 or older. Kathy Bethune, idents. There was some concern from the grant funding. every household there is one An otherwise reasonable most part, a safe driver. I had a the car in front of us, and her sudden, panicked working alongside Haddock, said she en- community that the school had previously Serving parent designated as an emer- child, my daughter resists couple I was as you Contact reaction as ifDamian we are about to get in a fiery crash staff writer Dominguez visions for amenities to offerbump-ups activities for thewhen been rented outaforteenager, parties, and Haddock gency nurse, and in our house taking cold medicine at every Seniors seniors living there. assured Goodman they currently have no at 864-634-7548 or follow on Twitter @ that’s me. My wife jokingly 30 Years! turn. Her argument, perhaps Over do, but in modern times my record has been that would rival a Vin Diesel movie sends an “They are trying to find ways to get interest in leasing the space out. Seniors IJDDOMINGUEZ. refers to me as “Dr. Trainor” in reasonable, is that it tastes clean. In fact, I’ve only had one speeding ticket instant jolt through me. these moments. While I did go horrible. My counter argument DiFrom staff reports for six years, I amEmergency to college no is that it’s Services not supposed to taste in the past 20 years. I was late for a movie and “What happened?” I’ll ask. rectorgood.

Derek Oliver. after “By all. It’s doctor.

It is medicine, AFFORDABLE fororGEM Greenwood County signing But I can do those got going a Deliver littlea NEWSPAPER too fast.ROUTE (The “You were about to hit that car!” she’ll reply, notup soda candy. alerts, for officer wasn’t HEALTH INSURANCE time-honored things parents community members Emergency Management However, it should can be swayed by my suggestion that I was going to excitedly. have beenitsdoing for genera-stay informed take is replacing CodeRED noted that and at least 81%apof tions. notification sys- propriate grandmothers believe that actionsdoduring emergency miss the previews.)

And thus begins an inevitable argument in MAKE EXTRA HOLIDAY CASH • Be your own boss I usually start with emergencies, Schweppescontributing ginger ale has metem withFirst, Genasys EmergenBut other than that pre-cinematic dalliance, which I insist CARRIERS NEEDED taking my daughter’s temperadicinalresilient properties.

Enroll Before January 15,that, 2023no, I was not in any way to a more andWhen pre- I was cy Management.

• Deliver between 9 pm - 6 am ture.

Butsystem unlike when we were kid it seemed”like all ailments I’ve been pretty safe on the roadways. However, about to randomly crash into another vehicle paredacommunity.

“This new will re• Finish early and enjoy the rest of your day kids and they used to make us could be cured with just three People who signed up place CodeRED and serve as you would be hard-pressed to acknowledge that that I could plainly see many, many car lengths hold the thermometer under things: ginger will ale, be saltine trans-crackthe primary communication to CodeRED Newspaper routes available in these areas our tongue, always a dicey a morning spent on the if you• witnessed my wife’s dramatic reactionsDavid A.ahead ofAssociates us. To which she replies that, while it Crotts & toand GEM, but officials tool for public safety topics, ferreders Greenwood • Ninety Six • Callison proposition, I instead use a couch watching “Theinto Price is • GROUP • INVESTMENTS ask residents to log including weather when she is riding in the passenger seat whileLIFE •AUHEALTH isO true hit that other car, it’s only digital severe thermometer.

You just T • H O M Ethat • B U SI I Ndidn’t ESS Right.” I bet you didn’t know Applicants must have a valid SC drivers license and adequate automobile liability insurance. to review and update alerts, point evacuation notices, it right at the patient’s GEMthat Bob Barker could cure the driving. because she “saved” me from doing so with her their lame, notification missing personpull reports andand, Apply online atI’m https://form.jotform.us/51395554184158 forehead, the trigger but facts arepreferfacts. You’d ences and confirm their other voila, critical information, ” To start, in her mind there is no safe distance reaction. you have their temperaalways get to feeling better right information.

• Caregiver Breaks said ature. news release Friday contact around the time they started from other cars, at least when I’m behind the And around we go. I guess you never know can provide multifrom Greenwood County.profi- Users I became ruthlessly & Trial Stays spinning the big wheel and such asalehome GEM is with set to livethermomto- ple addresses, cient thego digital wheel. She is steadfastly insistent that I am where you might find a thrill. For some, it that third ginger kicked in.

• 24-Hour Staff eter during the worst times and work, receive locaday, and all residents are of (I don’tto know if current “Price • Delicious Dining pulling out in front of other vehicles, no matter could be scaling the soaring cliff of a mountain the pandemic.

I looked like tion-specific and has encouraged to sign up for is Right” messages, host Drew Carey • Housekeeping Kirk with phaser,add multiple alerts. Captain To register forhisfree, how far away they might be. If I pull out of or leaning into the freefall of a bungee jump. those samephone healingnumpowers.) running around the house bers in Alas, 116 Abbey Dr., Greenwood • Activities we had no ginger a single account to ale visit bit.ly/3JZKiSt. our neighborhood in Lexington, and another For my wife, it comes from riding with me to taking temperaturesusers every day. when my daughter keep on-hand an entire family inWhile registering, 864-223-6510 • Laundry I’d even the of dog’s temperawas recently under the weather, vehicle is leaving their driveway in Calhoun the farmers market on Saturday morning. formed. can chose thetake types alerts ture.and (He how neverto had a fever.) so we had to stick to actual cold to receive receive my wife is worried we are going to crash Grab the panic bar and hold on tight. Some• www.thebayberryinn.com Next, I move on to anothmedicine, under the order of 800-552-8785Falls, them, including through er highly scientific medical Dr. Trainor. I’m always at the into each other. one in Calhoun Falls just pulled out of their landline calls, cellphone measure: Making my daughter ready with my trusty flashlight alerts stick text out andherSMS mesThis also is true when I’m following along driveway. tongue while I and digital thermometer. sages shine and aemail. it inalso flashlight her mouth behind another car on the roadway.

The other provides a Spanish-lanand look at the back of her Chris Trainor is a conChris Trainor is a contributing columnist guage throat. option.Now, to be certain, I Wendy & Emily car might stop, or slow down, a full 100 yards tributing columnist for the (864) 377-2076 “This havepowerful no particularmass idea what Index-Journal. Contact him at (864) 590-2551 for the Index-Journal. Contact him at Chrisahead of us — an action that I can clearly see notification system will I’m looking for when I do this. ChrisTrainorSC@yahoo.com.

TrainorSC@yahoo.com. You can follow him on improve the county’s abilIt always ends up just looking You can follow him on Twit- Action Realty and easily react to — and yet my wife will dra500B Montague Ave., Greenwood the back of critical a throat to me. ter @ChrisTrainorSC. Views Office: (864) 942-0021 ity to like disseminate Twitter @ChrisTrainorSC. Views expressed in matically gesticulate asAuxiliary if we are careencampaign That’s what it looks like to at he Self Regional Healthcare Volunteer Lightsabout for Love to fundraising has begun, and this year expressed in this column are information and ensure Fax: (864) 942-8999 thisover column those of the writer only and do *Each office independently owned andinto operated a crowded second least 94% of parents.

And yet Roeturn Milling at the Darlington those of the writer only and do the safety and well-bewe have chosen to honor Ms. Ruby(864) Clark who founded the Lights for Love program 40 yearsare ago and 993-1162 on, year after year, not represent the newspaper’s ing ofweallsoldier residents, ” said not represent the newspaper’s opinion.

Raceway. sadly passed away earlier this year. shining flashlights in our kids’ opinion.

I

SCHOOL

CHRIS TRAINOR

Truck damages Hodges Cemetery

Greenwood replaces CodeRED with news emergency system

EARN SOME EXTRA CASH ...

OPEN ENROLLMENT Call 223-8788

Stress & Worry-Free

Living

D C

C2-AT221025_190247

C2-204413

Yes, dear, they are still alive

Index-Journal, Greenwood, S.C. n 3A

Index-Journal, Greenwood, S.C. n 3A

The healing powers of ginger ale and ‘The Price is Right’

Lights for Love

T

ARE YOUR TIRES IN GOODBrowsing SHAPE?The Internet For For Your Vehicle’s Tire & Maintenance Needs, Trust The

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HOMETOWN PROFESSIONALS Being ready to buy is better! As you shop

On Monday, marchers will go from the Greenwood County Courtho tist Church in remembrance of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and of civil rights and nonviolent resistance.

March seeks to con people with King’s

By DAMIAN DOMINGUEZ Dr. King made, not just on Blacks but on whites as well,” ddominguez@indexjournal.com Burton said.

The lessons of the civil The march in Greenwood rights movement still echo will start at 10 a.m. Tuesday to this day, and on Monday a at the county courthouse, at Greenwood group will be cel- 528 Monument St., and will ebrating the legacy of the Rev. end at Morris Chapel Baptist Martin Luther King Jr. with a Church at 530 Baptist Ave. march through town.

There, Burton said there will The annual MLK Day be a program featuring a march, organized by Donald speaker from the Racial JusBurton’s organization Dream tice League, a group Burton Builders, seeks to connect heads. Anyone is welcome to people with the lessons of join in the march and proKing’s March on Washington, gram. which brought 250,000 peoThe Greenwood Garveyites ple to the steps of the Lincoln will join in the parade, a group Memorial to demonstrate for named after the ideals of accivil and economic rights. tivist and publisher Marcus “We’re still trying to get Garvey, whose ideas heavily people to realize the impact influenced Malcolm X and lat-

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, Lights for Love has raised more than 2 million dollars over the many years since its beginning. We inviteTina theBeskie community to help us to honor and memorialize loved ones who have (912) 257-5403 made significant impacts in their lives.

er oth B Kin ods tive peo ap a p stu Mo non ma Bri “ leg Bu

C Do or f DO

online for th Lisa Marie Presley will be buried at Graceland Visit usindexjourna

Acknowledgement cards will be sent to those being honored, or to the family of those being remembered, and their names Associated will be displayed in the hospital atrium throughout the holiday season.

Press Angel & Carla

Memphis just this past Sun-

Viewpoints

Despite the fact that Conestee’s fragile state has been known to lawmakers for years, little has been done to address it. More recently it resurfaced as a priority item for state Rep. John McCravy and then for state Sen. Billly Garrett. Garrett said McCravy told him about the tenuous nature of the dam and its potential to dump so much toxic waste into Lake Greenwood some years since 1919 back. But it fellLocally off his owned radar, he told the Index-Journal richard S. Whiting Price forMundy a Dec.Burns 24 story, until more recently when GreenPresident and Publisher Executive Editor wood County Council member Dayne Pruitt brought the matter to light again. r. Frank Mundy Eleanor M. Mundy Judith Mundy Burns 1915-1982to worry about 1917-1998 1947-2019 Nothing here, Greenwood County residents.

Restinassured that the right people arenewspaper. on top Editorial opinions this column represent the views of this Allof other columns, cartoons and Letters to the Editor reflect the views of the things now. individual author. They are not the opinions of this newspaper.

We know this because state Department of Health and Environmental Control officials met with GreenWHAT OTHERS SAY counties lawmakers, city and ville and Greenwood county officials from Greenville, Greenwood and and The following is the opinion of the newspaper represented Laurens counties,reflect as well area industry leaders and does not necessarily the as opinion of the Index-Journal. others — appropriately enough at Break on the Lake that borders the shoreline of our lake.

And in their infinite wisdom so as not to complicate things or, perhaps, cause a stir among the real stakeholders — that’s we who live here and drink the lake’s waters and recreate on the lake’s waters — there was no public notification of this own and other It’s official: The Saudis golf. meetings Tuesday’salready bombconducted.

Media outlets not notified, normerge invited shell announcement that were the PGA Tour will to cover the discussions.

That’ s not whining on our with LIV Golf, Saudi Arabia’s multi-billion-dollar part; rather, it’s just further pointing out that it was image-restoration project, is nothing less than the and is rather obvious many involved in the discussion surrender of a storied American sports tradition to would rather not have the public attend or even be a regime whose human rights abuses are indisputrepresented through media coverage of discussions. able. The PGA’s famous green jacket is tainted red.

Those meetings, by the way, likely stand in violation of The PGA, golf ’s longtime preeminent profesthe state’s Freedom of Information Act. sional league, LIV,McCravy created in 2021 In our Dec. and 24 story, had thisfrom to say:Saudi “It has Arabia’s sovereignpotential wealth fund, have until this week such tremendous for hurting our economy, been at each other’s throats in public and in court. hurting our businesses, hurting our water supply.”

LIVLet’ sought to overtake PGA’s prominence by s run down that listthe again.

It could hurt our econwaving bigger and money at supply. its stars, omy, business water No“sportswashing” kidding. SomeSaudi Arabia’s global image in the like process. where, perhapssorry first, in that list, we would to have Some like Tiger Woods, did the seen thegolfers, representative mention people.

Thatclassy much thing LIV’s offermight (reportedly toxicand wastepassed in ouron water supply very wellforeaffect going, in his case, a billion Those the health and livesclose of thetopeople whodollars). rely on Lake who took thefor bait, like Philfor Mickelson, were excoGreenwood their water drinking and cooking. riated as traitors.

Among chief was Without the people, it’s safethe to say theexcoriators economy and PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan, who businesses would be affected. The water supply?last Well, year raised the specter of 9/11 when criticizing there’d be plenty of water heading into the lake, justthe not Saudi-owned competitor. water we could consume or use recreationally.

While it’s true most of the 9/11 hijackers were McCravy also told the newspaper that the Conestee Saudi arguably more troubling issue Damnationals, is “the Number One aenvironmental issue in our —county because currentOne andpriority. more ”directly andit’s it’smore my Number implicates royal — is atroGood tothe hear.

We’llfamily hold you tothe that,regime’s too, along with cious human rights record, which includesYes, thewe 2018 Garrett and the whole Lakelands delegation. murder dismemberment Washington Post are gladand McCravy had what he of billed as a good meetcolumnist JamalBannister, Khashoggi. ing with Bruce chairperson of the House But what the heck, tee up! along As stunned PGA Ways and Means committee, with staff from players learned Tuesday with the rest ofand theothers worldas DHEC, trustees of Conestee foundation (some reportedly firstgot saw it on Twitter), Monathe legislative session underway. han’s about cozyingthat upthe with rogue Wequeasiness are concerned, however, fixabeing touted regime has evaporated like morning dew on the and that might get overall support in Columbia is to fairway.

Details of — theadeal are still emerging, spend $48 million few drops of water in thebut state’its apparently endsofall pending litigation — anddam brings overall bucket bucks — to build yet another just plenty that Saudi to theDam. table.

10 feetofdownriver of money the Conestee “IThat would aska Band-Aid, that any player or the that is but if youthat will,has just left, in case 130-year-old dam is breached.

Butjoin thatLIV, doesn’t resolve would ever consider leaving” to Monahan the an main problem, which thatheat 2.3 million yards told interviewer duringis the of the cubic conflict of toxic in the sediment.

How about a last year,waste “Haveremain you ever had to apologize for being to clean thatPGA stuff up?

You know, in case the $48 a plan member of the Tour?” million fails.answer to that question is now It’s fairBand-Aid to ask if the Or “yes. ” is this business as usual when lawmakers, to quote Orangeburg state Rep.—Gilda Cobb-Hunter likes St. Louis Post-Dispatch to say, just “kick the can down the road” and leave the problem to future lawmakers?

HUMOR COLUMN WRITING

OPEN DIVISION

Now there’s blood on the putting green

FIRST PLACE Richard Whiting Index-Journal

richard S. Whiting

Mundy Burns Price President and Publisher

r. Frank Mundy 1915-1982

Executive Editor

Eleanor M. Mundy Judith Mundy Burns 1917-1998

1947-2019

Editorial opinions in this column represent the views of this newspaper.

All other columns, cartoons and Letters to the Editor reflect the views of the individual author. They are not the opinions of this newspaper.

I

Hey, I wonderOURwhat’s in that box over there VIEW Calhoun Falls residents, that’s your money they’re playing with

f you have followed any of my scribyes, those too. But there were also the pa- even ran a couple of those safe oil-filled blings, you know that by some stanpers I wrote in college. And high school. radiators during the winter to keep the dards we — and by “we” I mean “I” And middle school. And, yes, elementary place comfortable. And the doors James — have a tendency to hang onto things. school.

Long installed a few years back not only Some call it hoarding, others, including There are those marbles and pencil dressed up the house’s exterior, but also myself, prefer to call it collecting. Or, at cases and assorted items that were gifts made the garage a bit more secure. least, keeping things for or things I bought through my childThe way I saw it, nobody was going Calhoun Falls residents whose tax dollars to fillget thein there and steal those highly their value, even if it’s hood.

Those I got in Thailand were only sentimental value. coffers quite special, of course.

Pictures?

Oh, sought of the town’s treasury should show up en after elementary school papers or But you also know indeed. when council I was 3 and all the It starts my—Matchbox cars. Or leftover nails and masse forFrom Monday’s meeting. althat after many converway through those formative high school screws. not all that conveniently for working people sations with my favorite though years when I looked my absolute best in a But now I’m thinking I need to go back —powder at 5 p.m. thefor town hall. wife, much thought blueintux the prom. in there and do some digging around They should demand answers about where theirYes, to see what else I might be and a bit of gnashing of My grandfather had quite the collecagain. teeth, I have begun to tion of baby jarsspent filledand withwhat all sizes willing tax dollars arefood being is reflected in to part with in an effort to declutlet go of some things. I the of town’s nails and screws, nuts and bolts, tacks ter, but also to see if by some odd chance WHItING’S do think my wife’s point and otherbudget. items. He had an array of tools, there are some top secret and classified Afterofreceiving a tipno that thewhat town had notdocuments filed a tucked away in there.

WrItINGS about not wanting to some which I have idea they budget updated past if either President Trump or burden our daughters are for.or But they arefinancial old, theystatements were his for theReally, RICHARD two the they Index-Journal beganto looking President into the Biden wantedhat’ and sons-in-law with and,years, by golly, mean something todsteal away S. WHITING you do on your summer the task of sorting and, situation. me. some not supposed We asked to get a copy of the town’s cur-documents they were vacation? most likely, tossing of all those collecthave meant something to have, I cannot think of While a better place uncompletely rentThey and must past year’s budget.

Much to our surprise, planned, we apparently joined the ibles and valuables is what finally made to my father as well because he wound than the Whiting household’s garage. the clerk said we would have like to file a Freedom Buc-ee’s Brigade. Now, me cave. Well, cave a little bit at least. uptown with those.

Nothing says family Even if we ever get it further cleared of Information request.

I don’t know While the two-car garage is a bit easier jars of leftover nails, a giant plumber’s out, one thing I can guarantee you is if that’s an officialinside. title, but I do like If you don’t already know, municipal, county to navigate, it still cannot hold and never wrench, a planer and an old crank-bythere won’t be a Corvette parked alliteration and so that’s has held a car in either bay. Not even one and hand drillpublic set. Add to thatbudgets collection other bodies’ are,my in fact, public I’m calling it. Or Whiting is executive editorwhat of the of those tiny Smart cars. Or a golf cart. own father’s collection of hardware he for anyone record that should be readily available Buc-ee’s Bunch, Buc-ee’s 864-943Still, for many years up until recently, also kept for those “just in case” moments Index-Journal. Contact him at Barons? Maybe Buc-ee’s requesting them.

The clerk, and town2522; counemail rwhiting@indexjournal.com, that garage has been a safe haven for all and you can bet C&C Metal mayor Recycling Beavers is best, since the cilwould should know that.me Further, they should abide by him on Twitter @IJEDITOR. or follow those treasures amassed over the years. have to write a sizable check. mascot is a beaver.

Views expressed in this columnAnyway, are those that.While the garage is not exactly a it all happened Things I was proud to have written, for WHItING’S writer only and do not rather represent the enough. innocently example. I bet you thought I meant stacks climate-controlled facility, I did keep But here we are with September coming toofathe close WrItINGS Mostly. newspaper’s opinion. of newspapers from 1980 forward. Well, ceiling fans running to circulate air and

W

A beaverful summer vacation ee’s Nuggets in all sorts of flavors. Buc-ee’s own brand of beef jerky you can buy in small bags, large bags or have yourself a good ole time standing at what is the equivalent of a butcher shop meat counter and ordering up every flavor under the sun in any number of pounds your heart desires and your stomach can stomach.

They have Buc-ee’s soft toys and key chains with a smaller version of the mascot hanging on them. Before you ask, yes they also have Buc-ee’s clothing. Try as I might, Wendy was not going along with my idea that we get Buc-ee’s bathing suits. C’mon, we’re going to the beach. How cool would it be if we both had Buc-ee’s beaver on a bikini and trunks? But no.

We grabbed up some Beaver snacks and jerky, a few other items we did not realize we needed — Wendy got one of those pretty silicone rings that takes the place of a wedding band — and headed to NMB. Hard as it was and despite having the room for them, we did not buy an outdoor firepit, a smoker grill or any of the outdoor seats and tables that are way better than our lowslung beach chairs that neither of us can easily get ourselves out of.

So, is that it? That the end of our vacation tale?

You bet your sweet beaver butt it’s not.

No way.

We had five days at the beach and headed back to Greenwood on Friday, did laundry, repacked and got up about 4:30 Saturday morning to head to Gallatin, Tennessee, for the wedding of the son of Greenwood friends.

After getting through the mayhem that is Interstate 26 and onto the mayhem that is Interstate 40, there it was, rising to the side of the Tennessee roadside. A billboard larger than life telling us that just 30-odd miles ahead is a Buc-ee’s.

Perfect. We can see what we missed in the Florence theme park. Plus, we need gas and a bite to eat, right? More sensory overload but less money spent this time.

And less time. We had to check in and be at the wedding before 3 p.m.

As the TV commercial goes, however, but wait! There’s more! Sure enough, about 79 miles down the road is yet another Buc-ee’s ready to meet the needs

and still no budgets have been provided, despite RICHARD Last week wasn’t our S. WHITING Mayor Terrico Holland promising in August to refirst introduction to a Buc-ee’s. We wound up lease them and despite clerk Wendi Alewine’s conin one around Warner Robins, Georgia, tinued ignorance of and disregard for the law, even in 2022 on a trip to Florida. We were though she and the mayor were provided copies of impressed, but did not have much time to spend to take it all in. Scrooge, ill you remember the gifts you the thepublic children ran to guide the door.

TheS.C. chil-Press AssociaThrough his character Ebenezer officials to the We headed lastfrom weekselfish to NMB — that’s received or a winter party or tion’s dren guide had not noticed what would have a miserly man transformed to the Freedom of Information Act. North Myrtle for the un-anointed the family pilgrimage to see otherwise been a conspicuous absence: misanthrope to the “spiritBeach of Christmas, ” Early this month, when again contacted about — for a vacation with two other couples. parents and grandparents? As I get older, somehow cousin Scottie was missing.

Dickens urgesWe us knew to “honor Christmas ina Buc-ee’s Florence had opened theand budget information, Holland itheart, columnist schnauzer two dachshunds, but that’s said Need a man cave?

There are several what Iellow most journalist rememberand about Christmas receiving The children glowed with happiness, [our] and try to keep it all the year. ” and, a little more than a year or so ago Trainor has taught me athe another tale. Or tail. off his builders around here who deliver a would be made available.

Well, it hasn’t been made are theChris people and the need to keep seeing “Santa” getting motorcycle, If you had known Scottie orcan seen him since Florence was home for us for nearly thing or two alive aboutallnavigating Moreand recently — what if byefforts “recently” one good outbuilding that you candecided spirit of Christmas year long.your available carrying on his back could to only be with onperfectly his Harley, would never have susadditional speak Holayou decade before moving here, we way to maintaining a happy domicile. can mean over the past several years convert into a man cave.

Beth and Scottie were good at keeping land bag of toys.

He was dressed all in red with pected his alter Santa, but theGas, role to ego stop as there on the way. lunch and ... have been futile.

When he comes home toalive. a newIt couch — Wendy hasabeen should My nextforbit of advice to was suggest OMG! Sensory folks.

Big Christmas is an white hair and great,saying white we beard. was perfect him becauseisoverload, he trulyyou a time Calhoun Falls residents, you should be angry. sensory overload. his wife, has downsize.

The are grown andsome gone, beginwho the process by eliminating things old story,Christina, and you may Depending onkids the children’s ages, person kept Christmas alive throughThe good news is check-in at the beach You should attend Monday’s meeting and make bought, just sit down the yard is big, the pool is great but still a before you actually make the move.

Mayhave heard it already, but jumped with joy while other children out the year. wasn’t until 4, somight we really did have and enjoy. poolanger beknown maintained. one ofChristmas everything you own in pairs. your andSanta demand to know howbe your it goes like When this. . . he . clung to their mothers. would sit Keeping alive come in plenty of time to absorb all that is Buc-ee’ s .

Did you comes to aknows new have more house need, ” forms Unless it’shelping stereo speakers. must Nowhome everyone each“We child on his knee, andthan theywe would from people in They one’s comelected and appointed officials are running your know there are more than 100 fuel pumps dog,Santa just pat its head sheby said.

“But all our stuff fits, ” I said. remain pairs. that Claus has and town talk thespending fireplace about the North Pole, to in finding opportunities to “pay at each location? Did you know you can and your money.

You shouldmunity also share the love.Kris Kring- the “We want to burden children Doing at this can help you avoid a each many names: elves,don’t the reindeer, the snowthe and other it forward” Starbuck’s.

Something Ifuel willpumps actually Google how manyrenting they abide by state and law get andrid operate with I have of- demand with having to gothat through of remember pair of storage building unitsruin and make le, Admittedly, Saint Nicholas, Father enchanting topics only children think about my own isyour thatGoogle-ing I it location has? Iholidays won’t ten been theand Christina our stuff when we’re dead,” she said. easier to had navigate the Christmas, more. in transparency. toallconsider. once again opportunity to support bythe telling yougarage. the number, but day-um.

More than 100? Yep. To otherwise beelectrician a clear indicator that But you may not Indo real life, wasit an Senior Angel Tree project.

I loved our what household.

Surprise!

“But we’ll beScottie dead,could so doesn’t matter, ” the Speaking of the garage, that’s a great rENEE we left at 3:50 know thatdevice once upon who was married my thing children’s purchasing giftsAnyway, for several nursing A newistech so I said. place for another TV,when especially ifhome you... I’m transparency is thetolast theysecond want, which kidding.

We didn’t LOVE WHItING’S athat time therecan wasget a Santa cousin Beth.

Scottie and Beth were like residents ournumber area. I am finding get Bezos bored would I tell people she they beat me into submisown aninodd of TVsspend andI much needmore to than explain why cannot or will not produce anwhat hourIthere, when we did Claus named Scottie the fairy-godparents that one reads about more joy from give but rather than in finally leave WrItINGS with our conversations. sion, but truth is she was right. remedy that situation.

GUEST Wendy and I agreed on one thing.

Well, a town budget for the public’s review.

VIEW Dale. in children’s books: wereeven generous, I receive,that’s and these opportunities for Surprise! A new dog.

We do have a lotthey of stuff, though whatBesides, where might RICHARD more than oneyou thing, but thewind main one One more the residents should YouImay not have helpful, attentive, funny andanconsider giving need not limited the holidays.

Yeah, did that one too I think it is thing goodresponsive, stuff.

She agrees.

To up spending abelotwe ofagreed yourtoon time, either S. WHITING thing is that going to Buc-ee’s doing.

Clean house the next round of elections. heard of Santa Scottie a kind.

They invested people and knew My children were young at thepark. whenbecause Wendy he waswas gone extent.

Most of it isingood stuff, just more sorting out isstuff didn’t be-I mean, akinyou totoo going to aoffload theme more recent, Southern Santa, but you may how show love all year long. time to remember some of these was nothat’s Loch Nessperfect Monster Let them know you’re mad as in hell and you’re not on a women’s church retreat. stuffto than we need at this point our forehand orthere because where you’veor other know likebeloved him. Scottie was part I cherished those special Santa visits, moments, so I remind them that once cool rides like they have at Busch Gardens We someone had lost our schnauzer a gonna lives.

However, despite her claim, I do not been relegated to by the Mrs. for not take it anymore. At least, you should be mad inand Williamsburg, Virginia, but still, it had of that memorable castand, of characters from but I appreciate those perfect moments upon a time they knew a kind, Southern couple of years earlier as if it were have two of everything. some cases, I because going along getting along. aseven hellmore and you should notIn take itcannot anymore the feel of entering a theme park. my children’s childhood, but he goes by now than I did then.

I Santa named Scottie Dale who didn’t have divine intervention, Karen Pettay of the have four. I do like even numbers, which Of course, you might find she was And boy, oh boy, isthem it ever themed. Bucit’s not theiramoney they’re spending.

It’s yours. many different names. remember single children ever a Harley.

I remind Humane Society of Greenwood let me might explain twotoy leafthe blowers and two reindeer right allbut along and that your new little On she our had family’s special night, we would on those and occasions, but what for I that Santa goesabout by many names is realknow a schnauzer available.

That received weed trimmers, my propensity oasis is just perfect andand all you all gather, “waiting a look at that most gift of Christmas that to timeless, more thanifanything, Santawant is breed rarely winds for up at the humane so- remember centering is orthe balancing when it comes ly needbut — especially the kids don’t popular man (in) the world. ” Eventually, and Scottie showed all year long: the theorspirit westuff. need to show all ciety.

They’re usually snatched up quickly Beth furniture and wall art placement. needofalllove thatthat good we would hear the familiar sounds – not gift of love. year long. by a schnauzer rescue group.

So it came to this. Downsizing.

WASHINGTON byany agreeing to hearWhiting the case challenging such asof a tenant “the prancing and pawing of each Such of love and emotional is executive editor the refuses to pay even the Laci was only 6 months old.

Of little course, Now,gifts let me give some advice to Dr. ReneeLaw Love(RSL). is an English professor t started, asare much mischief does, the rarest the city’s Rent Stabilization artificially low rent, violates the lease, be” – but coming which down generosity seldom found, Index-Journal.

Contact him at 864-943Ihoof brought hera motorcycle home on approval, reader who’s considering downsizing. with government augmenting its CharlesTo normalatpeople, “emergency” comes a nuisance or uses the apartment Lander University.

Please write to her at the street. treasures.

They embody what 2522; email rwhiting@indexjournal.com, was supposed to mean both Wendy and First, ifby you are the alpha male” and your“temporary. power declaring an “emergency. implies ” In government’ s for unlawful purposes. crlove@lander.edu.

The adultsLaci would feignhad surprise while Dickens callsis“the spirit of ” or follow him oncanTwitter @IJEDITOR. I approved. already my approval lovely wife onChristmas. downsizing, It continued despiteinsisting the predictable fact parlance, a declared “emergency” be Furthermore, tenants’ rights can be Views expressed in this column are those and it didn’t take long for her to win over just agree and with it. Remember, thatget theon “emergenrenewed in perpetuity — exacerbating inherited by any member of the tenant’s ofsupposedly the writerjustified only and not represent theliving in the apartcy” measures made on the problem that the do family who has been Wendy. Side note: little did we know she could instead be insisting much matters worse.

It might declaration. newspaper’s opinion. ment for two years — or one year, if the that we’d wind up with three dogs — a a larger house.

With a pool and hot tub.

What will you remember about the holidays?

W‘Yes’ is the real art of the deal in some cases

F

and wants of the die-hard Buc-ee’s Beaver Brigade faithful. Sure enough, we needed to top off the gas tank, get a snack and take a bathroom break.

Speaking of bathrooms, there are nearly as many urinals and stalls in the bathrooms as there are gas pumps at these stores. Plus, they have attendants there to keep the traffic moving and the whole place pristine. Fancy tiled floors and stalls. Heck, even the urinals had tiled privacy walls on either side. You’d have to crane your neck to see who was standing next to you, which is something I don’t recommend even if there are no walls.

So, there you have it. Florence, South Carolina, and Crossville and Kodak, Tennessee, Buc-ee’s are in the books for the Whitings. Plus the one in Warner Robins, of course.

On the way back to Greenwood on Sunday, would you believe we needed breakfast and gas? Would you believe we stopped at the Kodak Buc-ee’s?

Of course you would.

I swear, I think they put something in the gas and maybe even in their breakfast tacos and heaping brisket sandwiches that cause you to have to take the next Buc-ee’s exit. Maybe they have tractor beams that pull people into the next location.

Hey, if they finally do open one of those stores in Anderson, you have to go. At least once. Surely you’ll find something you want and something you need, even if at first you didn’t realize you needed it. Really, it’s an amazing operation of efficiency and cleanliness, too. It’s like Chick-fil-A meets Walmart. An upscale Walmart.

You might see me there. Still thinking about those swimming trunks, even if Wendy won’t join in the fun. And one of those beaver mascots would look pretty cool staring out the back window of my truck.

Whiting is executive editor of the Index-Journal. Contact him at 864-9432522; email rwhiting@indexjournal.com, or follow him on X @IJEDITOR. Views expressed in this column are those of the writer only and do not represent the newspaper’s opinion.

New York’s rent laws are a gross violation of property rights

I

British jurist whose thinking informed that of America’s Founders, said “the right of property” is “the right to exclude.” It is the “dominion” that an individual exercises “in total exclusion of the right of any other individual.”

Thomas Merrill, a professor at Columbia Law School, says, “Exclusion lies at the end, as some but not The city’s first housing “emergency” family member is elderly or disabled. root of property because the institution enough mischief does, was declared 103 years ago because And “tenant’s family” is defined to of property is dependent on possession, with the Supreme World War I had curtailed construction, include grandparents, grandchildren and and exclusion lies at the root of possesCourt declaring the causing rents to rise. For 10 years, rent in-laws. And a renter’s rights can be insion.” policy unconstitution- increases and evictions were limited. herited by anyone living in an apartment In an amicus brief challenging the al. New York City’s Federal World War II “emergency” legwho has an “emotional and financial RSL, the Manhattan Institute and Cato No, don’t worry, we will not break the bras! You can watch all the plants through DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY & ENbreathtakingly aggres- islation freezing New York rents at 1943 commitment and interdependence” with Institute note that New York City’s sun. I can seesive why that would be the next VIRONMENT, DC: ALERT: AIR QUAL- GEOrGE the window and cheer on Outdoor Mint rent “stabilization” levels came and went, then Congress the tenant. And sometimes an owner micromanaging of rental property logical worry,regime if theillustrates air canthis suddenly ITY CODE RED (1/3) Today’s air quality WILL Plant, if yourents, canand seeinit through the stuff“an inimmediate and authorized states to regulate who demonstrates degrades owners’ rights “to a far greater break, but sun isSometimes actually too far away will be unhealthy for people with heart or WASHINGTON paradox: 1969, amid another “emergency, ” New Mint compelling necessity” degree” than did a 1975 California POST the the air!

I bet Outdoor will make it. for resuming WRITERS GROUP theit. more York is, City’ regime began.

It covers control of a unit must pay the costs of “emergency” law that the court struck for us to break Yet.comprehenAlso the moon I s RSLOutdoor lung disease, older adults, children and Mint is a survivor. sivelytrees a badare policy is, okay. approximately units, half the finding the tenant an equivalent unit down in 2021. This law compelled think, fine. The mostly No, 1 million teens. Avoid outdoor activities whenever We didn’t break the air forever, I think? theit’s better, city’s rental units. Under the “emergenwith an identical controlled rent. owners of agricultural properties to justbecause the air.it provokes a strong possible. hope?

Thereevery was a time The years reaction. cy,” which hadIbeen redeclared cityago sayswhen this thicket of restricpermit labor unions, four times a year, Yes, I do mean air.properThe thing you and rivers were pretty The Constitution saysthe private three years forthe half air a century, ownership tions onconsistentapartment owners’ property 30-day periods of access, for up to three

Sorry, you can’t use the air today

transfers without directly voting for them. As Justice Antonin Scalia said of many such transfers, they are “achieved ‘off budget,’ with relative invisibility and thus relative immunity from normal democratic processes.” Such “off budget” financing of public policy is disguised taxation. And it is the taking of private property, which constitutionally requires “just compensation.”

An Institute for Justice amicus brief in the New York City case notes an unsurprising fact: “Rent-control laws have been shown to reduce a city’s housing supply by double-digit percentages.” Artificially suppressing monetary demands for something, and thereby decreasing the incentive to provide that something, is a recipe for getting less of it.

The economic illiteracy of politicians who defend New York City’s RSL regime is an affliction that city voters should correct. Stopping the regime’s gross

I appreciate how you transform an ordinary event into a humorous one! Really enjoyed reading your columns.

VOICE OF THE PEOPLE

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Garrett Mitchell The Woodruff Times

Travis Jenkins The News & Reporter SPORTS A6 The News & RepoRTeR Wednesday, March 1, 2023

UP OFF THE MAT

Shipman wins state title

BY TRAVIS JENKINS

TJENKINS@ONLINECHESTER.COM

BY TRAVIS JENKINS

TJENKINS@ONLINECHESTER.COM

When the high school wrestling season began, it was expected that Drue Shipman would win a AAA state title at 152 pounds wearing the red and blue singlet of Chester High School, but that didn’t happen.

There wasn’t a shocking upset during the state tournament and Shipman did win a state title, but did so in the A/AA bracket as a Lewisville Lion.

Lewisville has not fielded a wrestling team in years and might not have this year minus the ripple ef fects from a decision elsewhere. W ith Lewisville not having a team, athletes from that school were allowed to compete on the Chester High team for years. Shipman, in fact, won 99 matches as a Cyclone.

Realignment shifted Chester to a new region this season, though, and region teams voted not to allow the practice to continue, even though Shipman had competed as a Cyclone for three years and the decision could have cost him the opportunity to compete.

“When they told me, the first thing I did was tell my college coach (Shipman has signed to wrestle at Coker University) that either Lewisville would have to start a team or I wouldn’t have a senior season,” he said.

The pr ospect of not being able to wrestle was tough for Shipman to take.

His uncle turned him onto the sport, he started it at a young age and said he fell in love with it the first time he stepped onto a mat. He works with a wrestling club in Fort Mill and he could have entered open tournaments individually, but Shipman would have been denied the opportunity to win a state title. He had been a state qualifier before and was a favorite to win his weight class this year. So when he heard Lewisville was looking into star ting a team, he was optimistic.

They got a bit of a late start, partly because they had to find a coach (Cedric Leron was ultimately hired) and had to start from literal ground zero in terms of equipment (they had not mats, headgear or singlets) and scheduling.

Cycs get two state runners-up

PHOTO PROVIDED

Drue Shipman brought home a state title for Lewisville this weekend at 152 pounds.

They managed to pull everything together, though, Lewisville had a team and so did Shipman.

Leron said he was pleasantly surprised to see how much interest the spor t generated. Lewisville faced

of f against some established programs that didn’t have nearly the numbers of the start-up Lions.

There were other hurdles along the way. There just aren’t many Class A wrestling programs in the

immediate area and only one other team in Lewisville’s region fields a team, so the schedule was loaded with AA, AAA and AAAA competition.

SEE TITLE/PAGE A7

The Chester wrestling team didn’t have any champions crowned at the state meet over the weekend, but did post a strong showing overall that included a pair of state r unners-up.

In South Carolina, participation in wrestling by girls has grown so much that there is now a girls bracket. Chester had three girls competing, including Victoria Chambers.

“She did ver y well,” said Chester Wrestling Coach Dennis Jensen. “In the semis, she got a pin. She was throwing that girl all over the mat.”

In the finals, though, Chambers ran into a ver y experienced and accomplished opponent.

“The girls she faced in the finals went 8-1 in a national tournament,” Jensen said.

Chambers lost in the finals, but Jensen noted it was her first year of competing in the sport at all. He said he was impressed with how far she made it in year one.

Kayla Bratton and Caley Mills both won early matches in the state tournament but fell in the consolation semifinals.

On the boys side, Eduardo De Paz, a senior, had a strong showing as expected at 106 pounds. He got a quick pin in the semifinals before losing in a close match in the finals.

“He wrestled a kid from West Oak that went 53-0 this year,” Jensen said. “He lost to him on points in upperstate and did again in the state finals. They were ver y competitive, close matches.”

Jaheim Ramber t (113 pounds) and Tristan Woodard (120 pounds) lost in the consolation semifinals. C.J. McCree also qualified for the state torunament at 195 pounds.

Overall, Jensen said it was a good year. In the team playoffs, Chester advanced to the upperstate championship for only the second time in program history.

He said his objective in the offseason is to work on establishing a youth program. Chester was ver y young this year and figures to be in good shape for another team playoff run and individual success at the state meet, but Jensen said it would improve the program immensely to have athletes introduced to and competing in the sport at an early age. He said, generally, teams that compete for state titles on an annual basis have youth feeder programs.

Basketball season ends for Great Falls

Jordan, Cavs

it up. Great Falls leans on its defense and thrives on turn-

SPOT SPORTS STORY

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FIRST PLACE Elijah Campbell & Kevin Oliver Lexington County Chronicle I kept coming back to this story. The variety of quotes was a plus. Just enough details about the young man as well as the game.

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Bru Nimmons Pickens County Courier

Ian Guerin Myrtle Beach Herald

2B Pickens County Courier

Wednesday, November 23, 2022

dANIEL LIONS 12-1, 5-0 | LASt WEEK L, 36-35 At POWdErSvILLE (12-1, 5-0) | tHIS WEEK SEASON OvEr 19 \ grEEr, W51-21 2022 Aug. Aug. 26 \ at EASLEy, W 55-7 SCHEduLE SEPt. 9 HArt CO., W 38-17 SEPt. 16

Powdersville stuns Daniel with late score to halt streak

By Bru Nimmons Staff Reporter

bnimmons@thepccourier.com

POWDERSVILLE — Hanging on to a 35-28 lead with just 14 seconds left in the game, the Daniel Lions needed just one more stop in Friday night’s third-round playoff battle at Powdersville.

The Daniel defense, which had rounded into one of the state’s best after having to replace eight starters to start the year, had been battered by 46 Patriot rushes, and on the thirddown play from the Lions’ 1-yard line, they were unable to stop Powdersville quarterback Eli Hudgins from getting to the edge and cutting the lead to 3534 with 8 seconds remaining.

Luckily for Daniel, the Patriots gave the Lions another chance for a game-winning stop

bOx SCOrE Daniel 0 14 14 7 — 35 Powdersville 14 7 7 8 — 36

SCOrINg SuMMAry First Quarter

PHS — Hudgins 1 yard run (Spearman kick), 5:56 PHS — Rice 58 yard pass from Hudgins (Spearman kick), 2:03

as they elected to try for a decisive two-point conversion.

With the game — and Daniel’s 36-game winning streak — on the line, Hudgins tossed the ball to star running back Thomas Williams, and despite the best efforts of linebackers Carson Chasteen and Ty Plumblee, Williams managed to just score on the run to stun the Lions and give the Patriots a 36-35 win.

“We didn’t have enough tonight,” Daniel head coach Jeff Fruster said. “Hats off to Coach (Robert) Mustar and his team.

They fought valiantly all night, and I thought they took advantage of the opportunities they were given.”

The Patriots lived up to their lofty billing as they only trailed for a little less than five minutes of action against a Daniel team that had won every game during its 36-game unbeaten streak by two touchdowns or more.

Although the Patriots controlled the game for much of the night, the Lions stayed within shouting distance despite costly turnovers and missed opportunities in the end zone.

“We knew coming in that the execution needed to be extremely high,” Fruster said. “We couldn’t just be on par with what we had done, and we weren’t able to take advantage of those opportunities.”

PICKENS, W 42-14

SEPt. 23 rIvErSIdE, W 56-14 SEPt. 29 at WALHALLA, W 56-14 OCt. 7 WESt-OAK, W 76-0 OCt. 14 at SENECA, W 41-3

OCt. 21 PENdLEtON, W 51-13 OCt. 28 at CrESCENt, W 42-0 NOv. 4 SOutHSIdE, W 49-14 NOv. 11 WOOdruff, W 55-17

tHE ENd

The missed opportunities were there from the start for the Lions, as they forced a fumble recovered by Tremaine Davis Jr. with Powdersville driving deep into Daniel territory on its opening possession, only for Jaylen Brown-Wallace to fumble it back to the Patriots two plays later, setting up Powdersville’s first touchdown on a run by Hudgins.

After punting, the Lions were in trouble again on defense before a holding penalty seemed likely to halt the Patriot drive. Facing a third and 18 from his own 42-yard line, Hudgins launched a deep ball that was well on the way to being picked off by either Davis or Isaac Turner. However, the ball instead bounced off their fingers See LIONS on page 3B

Caleb Gilbert/Courtesy The Journal

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POWdErSvILLE, L 36-35

Daniel receiver Eli Merck fights off a tackle from Powdersville’s Jaxon Key. Merck had a career day in his final game for the Lions, grabbing 11 catches for 175 yards and a touchdown.

Second Quarter

DWD — Merck 58 yard pass from Bl. Simons (Brown kick), 10:20 DWD — Shaw 2 yard run (Brown kick), 6:49 PHS — Williams 71 yard run (Spearman kick),

NOv. 18

• Composite Decking

• Panels • Millwork

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CARDIAC REBELS Byrnes edges out Dorman for down-to-wire victory ‘I was proud of Move to 3-0 in region play the guys, because

BY TREY STEWART SPORTS EDITOR

FIRST PLACE Trey Stewart The Greer Citizen

All Zy Landrum needed was an opportunity.

With Byrnes and Dorman tied at 14 in the fourth quarter, he finally got it.

Byrnes’ backup quarterback took charge under center after heavy rain at Nixon Field picked up early in the fourth. Byrnes head coach Reggie Shaw knew Landrum’s ability as a runner would be crucial in the wet conditions.

“Zy’s a great runner.

We’d talked about mak-

there was no fingerpointing. They just kept playing and responding.’

Reggie Shaw

Byrnes head coach

ing the move at halftime if it really started raining,” said Shaw. “We knew we might put Zy in. And with the game on the line, he stepped up in a big way.”

On Landrum’s first drive, he and running

back Tre’ Segarra ran the read option to perfection, marching down the field with ease on a Dorman defense that had been stout all night. Landrum got the Rebels down to the Dorman 37-yard line.

Then, he took matters into his own hands.

Landrum pulled the ball on the read option and took off himself down the left side of the field. Players all around him slipped and slid trying to bring him down, but Landrum was too quick. Behind several key blocks, the junior sped into the end zone to give the Rebels a 21-14 lead.

Byrnes (8-1, 3-0 region) wouldn’t relinquish that SEE BYRNES | B6

Blue Ridge running back K yards and three touchdowns win. He has over 1,000 yards

T.G.

Blue Ridg first win Thursday Tigers blank Carolina, 49-0

BY TREY STEWART SPORTS EDITOR

PHOTO | PRESTON BURCH

Backup quarterback Zy Landrum stepped into the game in the fourth quarter, leading the Rebels to a 28-26 win behind stellar play with his legs.

Greer Great lead in, draws you in, informs, entertains. Top notch.

to visit

John Boggs took a long look around. He wanted to soak in the moment as much as he could.

Blue Ridge’s third-year head coach watched as his players embraced and danced with Tiger cheerleaders. Just behind the commotion, he saw proud parents and Tiger supporters cheering loudly from the stands. Boggs smiled.

The winless weight was finally off their shoulders.

At long last, Blue Ridge (1-7, 1-1 region) got its first victory of the sea-

Eastside swimming once unsinkable in state comp

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Wes Kerr The Island News

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FIRST PLACE Wes Kerr The Island News I felt like I was there. Very interesting and left me wanting to know more about the team.

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Justin Driggers Morning News

Kyle Dawson Aiken Standard

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FIRST PLACE Kyle Dawson Aiken Standard Excellent sports reporting by Kyle Dawson. Feels like I was at the match. Well done.

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Michael Lananna The State

Karl Puckett The Island Packet

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FIRST PLACE Chapel Fowler The State Really nice take on the game within the game, the focus on sportsmanship and the relationship between these coaches on and off the court.

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Andrew Miller The Post and Courier

Scott Keepfer Greenville News

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FIRST PLACE Bob Montgomery and Samantha Swann Herald-Journal Story goes into great detail about why two Minor League teams could be supported in area.

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Garrett Mitchell The Woodruff Times

A6 The News & RepoRTeR Wednesday, June 21, 2023

Persistence and a proposal help Reed reach D-1

BY TRAVIS JENKINS

TJENKINS@ONLINECHESTER.COM

When there was an unexpected hole in the Appalachian State lineup, Alex Reed was the “best man” for the job of filling it.

Reed’s college baseball journey stretched out over six years, hit fits and starts because of injuries, a pandemic and circumstances beyond his control. His opportunities appeared to get pulled out from under him on multiple occasions, but his long-awaited big break did come and was provided courtesy of a wedAlex Reed ding. When it presented itself, though, he was ready and took full advantage.

“Thirty games into his senior season, he had 10 at-bats,” said Billy Keels, who coached Reed in high school at Lewisville.

“Not getting to play, some guys would’ve just walked away, but Alex didn’t do that.”

Reid was a senior catcher on the 2017 Lewisville team. He won a ring that year, with Lewisville winning the Class A state title. He played JV baseball as an eighth grader and made varsity as a freshman. Christian Cok was the starting catcher that year, but was also a pitcher, so when he got his weekly turn in the rotation, Reed took his place behind the plate. He started as a sophomore (when Lewisville was state runner-up) and put together an all-state resume. Oddly, given what was to come, Reed said he was “just OK at the plate” in the prep ranks, but was among the top defensive catchers in the state.

Errant pitches rarely got by him and would-be base stealers always thought twice about trying to test his arm.

“He really never faced much adversity in high school. He

FILE PHOTO

Alex Reed, kneeling on the far left of the front row, was part of a state title winner at Lewisville in 2017. was a three-year starter and was never hurt,” Keels said.

So how he dealt with the next six years did not necessarily come from experience, but from something within him.

“I guess maybe it’s just how I was raised,” he said.

He did have the benefit of a dad (Mike) who followed much the same path he was about to enter. As good a player as he was, Reed said he walked off the graduation stage at Lewisville standing six-feet-tall and weighing about 180 pounds.

“Most colleges want their catchers to come in at 6-foot-2 and about 220 pounds,” he said.

So his college career would begin at Brunswick Community College in North Carolina.

It’s a junior college, one that has a constantly changing roster, with most players staying for two years and some only one (before transferring).

“We would have guys come in that had played D-1 ball and gotten hurt, had Tommy John surgery or something,” Reed said. “They’d redshir t and rehab for a year, play one year and then transfer.”

With a lot of talent coming in-and-out and Reed needing some time to physically mature, he opted to take a redshirt sea-

son as a freshman. He got bigger, saying more intense workouts and time on the field usually left him starving and eating a lot more. As his sophomore year began, though, he had a big fall campaign, which often sets the stage for a big spring.

“That’s when you have a chance to get noticed, in those inter-squad games and scrimmages against other schools,” Reed said.

His first year playing in college was a good one. As he started to see more and more college pitching, he became a much more effective hitter. A position switch also helped as he made the move from catcher to first base.

“It’s hard to hit and be a catcher,” he said. “When I moved to first base, I turned into more of a slugger.”

He could have transferred after that season but decided to play for a second year at Brunswick. As he had another good fall in 2019, he had no way of knowing that second year of junior college baseball was more than a year away.

He’d likely have ended up missing the season anyway, because of hand surgery, but no one would play a full college season in 2020 because of the

onset of the COVID pandemic. As was the case with all college players, that year did not count against Reed’s eligibility.

Even still, once things started to return to normal, he had the opportunity to move on if he so chose, with a number of Division II schools showing him interest.

“That’s not the route I wanted to take,” he said. “I wanted to play Division I baseball.”

So the rare, nearly unheard of fourth season of junior college baseball was in store for Reed.

“That part of the resilience he showed throughout his college career,” Keels said.

“Because again, most guys would not have hung around for a fourth year in junior college.”

Coaches at Brunswick were unaccustomed to having a player for as long as they did Reed and teammates certainly took notice of how long Reed had been around.

“They called me ‘Paw Paw,’ ” Reed, now age 24, laughed. “It was pretty funny, actually.”

Reed was basically betting on himself, shunning offers for the chance to put up a big season and gain Division I attention.

The bet paid off big time, with

It’s kind of a ‘big dill’

Reed having a huge season and leaving Brunswick with a career average of .321 and 11 home runs. That got him seen in the way he’d hoped and he ultimately committed to Appalachian State. Reed had a big fall and was projected to start at first base just days before the season started. Unfortunately, right before opening day Reed tested positive for COVID-19 and per protocol, was on the shelf for a while. A freshman ended up starting the season at first.

“And he won the Atlantic Sun Freshman of the Year Award,” Reed said.

So, he went from potential starter to little-used backup and pinch hitter in an instant. He kept a good attitude and kept working hard, but said the life of reserve can be a hard one.

“They might tap you on the back in the dugout and tell you to be ready to pinch hit three or four straight games and you still never get in. Then, when you do, it’s ver y hard to hit when you only get one at-bat every other week or so,” he said.

After the season, Reed was informed his scholarship was being pulled. Coaches liked him and wanted to keep him, but in college baseball, he said, coaches can’t afford to invest scholarship money in a player who isn’t on the field and isn’t contributing (even if it’s because of reasons beyond his control). Keels said Reed could have transferred or just walked away from the game at that point, but didn’t.

“At that point, I was one year away from finishing. I just couldn’t quit,” Reed said.

Reed had another good fall and said he basically led the team in every offensive category. So, for the second straight year and going into his final season of eligibility, he finally appeared poised to realize his SEE REED/PAGE A7

Finding the Light Downtrodden Woodruff High Baseball Program Returning to Winning Ways Under New Coach By: Garrett Mitchell

To say that Woodruff High School baseball was in a dark tunnel with no light in sight would be a bit more than an understatement.

The Wolverines were mired in a two-season long doldrum that saw the program win just five games combined between the 2021 and 2022 seasons. Woodruff was an abysmal 5-40 during those two long and demoralizing seasons.

Prior to the start of the school year, Woodruff hired a new head coach who they hoped could turn things around. Wesley Brown had a reputation for building or turning struggling programs around, but rarely does that happen in just one season. But under Brown’s leadership and unique coaching style, the Wolverines have not only found the light at the end of the tunnel, they are already basking in the glow of a program which has been rejuvenated far quicker than anyone could have imagined.

Entering spring break, the Wolverines carried a record of 10-6 and a 4-2 tally in conference play, having already locked up a play-off berth for the first time in four years. More than that, the players, many who were there during the misery of the previous two seasons, have rallied around their new coach and embraced his style of coaching. Brown’s methods are different, and sometimes outside of the mainstream, but he has stripped the game down to the basics as he starts to rebuild the Wolverines’ program from the ground up.

Senior centerfielder Nemo Cochran stated that Brown’s coaching tactics are designed to make practice more difficult so the games come easier once the team steps onto the diamond. That and a sense of stability have helped to unify the team.

“We’ve had three coaches here in the past four years, and I think what Coach Brown brings to the table is, he’s uncommon,” said Cochran. “He does things that are uncommon and that prepares us for uncommon situations in games. Everybody has that drive that they want to win, including Coach Brown, and I feel like he brings that out of us more than we have ever had in the past.”

Cochran is batting .289 on the season and leads Woodruff in doubles with five. Meanwhile, senior left fielder Carson Tucker is also enjoying the best season of his career. It is a welcome change, he says, from his first three years of high school baseball.

“It’s a new energy,” said Tucker who is batting .349 with 19 runs driven in through the first 16 games of the season. “Coach Brown and the new coaching staff, they’ve brought it out here. I absolutely love those guys and they are the reason where we are at right now.”

Woodruff began their season in March at the annual Steve Sanders Tournament and won their

SPORTS FEATURE STORY

WEEKLY UNDER 3,000 DIVISION

ISSUE 40 • 2 SEC TIONS, 14 PAGES

The ‘I’s’ have it

BY TRAVIS JENKINS

TJENKINS@ONLINECHESTER.COM

FIRST PLACE Travis Jenkins The News & Reporter

WEDNE

He never wore a unifor m and was rar ely on the field, but for 43 years, Chester’s Dr. Sam Stone was an impor tant part of the Clemson Tigers football team.

When the Tigers

played Florida State two weeks ago, Stone and his family were given the honor of “dotting the I” in “Tigers” as part of theI’Sfootball team’s FROM PAGE A1 pregame entrance cereIt’s a special recogmony.nition for someone who worked in the first aid station for every home game and spring game (and concerts by the Rolling Stones and Eagles) for more than four decades.

Stone began working Clemson games (on a strictly volunteer basis) for the same reason he does many things…because it was a chance to give back.

“Clemson has been awfully good to me,” Stone said. “I was just giving back what was given to me.”

When Stone (Clemson Class of 1976) was doing his residency in Anderson County, a call went out for someone to work the first aid station for home Clemson games. No one else wanted to because there was no pay involved, but Stone saw it as a chance to help people, so he volunteered that year and continued to do so even once he’d moved back to Chester to begin his practice. Even once he became the official team doctor at Chester High School and was busy late into every football Friday night, he was at Clemson the next day. He was then right back to his job and various other volunteer projects at home on Monday.

“It’s really just about him living out what he’s always told us, that being

BY TRAVIS JENKINS

It began as a discussion of increased user fees but turned into an argument about the sharing of information.

At last week’s meeting of Chester City Council,

Sheriff Dorsey shows Fruit Inspirations owner Beth Edwards that law enforcement officers don’t subsist only on doughnuts- sometimes they like muffins too.

West was suffering from a stomach bug on one occasion and required an IV as well.

“It was a big recruiting weekend. He had a lot of recruits he needed to go talk to so we hooked him up to an IV,” he said.

One of his most interesting encounters ever involved a young lady who showed up seeking medical attention after being dumped by her boyfriend.

So what was the medical reason for that visit?

“A broken hear t, I guess,” Stone said.

She stayed at the first aid station for about half of the game. Stone talked to her and eventually helped locate her parents, who came in and comforted her.

Pete said that sort of demeanor is part of the

reason people love his dad so much. He doesn’t just treat a patient and move onto the next. There is genuine care and compassion, a friendly face, a kind word and a willingness to listen.

“So many medical professionals want to get patients in and out and see as many as they can in a day. They probably don’t get someone like my dad.

He’s always taught us that people come first and business comes second,” Pete said.

The recent honor came about very quickly, with Stone saying he only found out about it three days beforehand. Pete’s wife and kids were out of town for a reunion, but otherwise Stone, his wife Beverly, sons Pete and Marc, Marc’s wife Pam and daughter Olivia all walked onto the field together.

“They deser ved to be there too. They went to ever y game and sat through heat, cold, rain and ever ything else,” Stone said.

The family waited on the sidelines, a spot Stone has rarely visited on game days. Standing alongside them was Chester native (and Clemson Alumni Association senior director of engagement) John “Bubba” Britton. He called Stone “a one of one individual” with a true servant’s heart.

“I have never met someone who does so much for so many others with

the only expectation being to see that person excel,” Britton said. “His love of all things Chester and Clemson are unmatched by anyone I’ve ever seen.

It’s not his love about those tangible cities or institutions within them, it’s about the people…

Chester and Clemson are so lucky to have Dr. Sam. I can’t imagine either place without him.”

The crowd was so loud, Stone said he could barely hear the band, though he was on the field with them.

“It was beautiful,” Pete said of the giant orangeclad crowd standing and applauding in unison.

“It was uplifting to see someone who has given so much honored that way and to hear the announcer say ‘Clemson and Dr. Sam Stone welcome you to Death Valley.’ ” Stone himself said he still gets chills thinking about it.

“To see all those people and hear your name and see yourself on the Tigervision gives you goose bumps. That’s a memory you’ll remember forever,” Stone said.

He never volunteered in hopes of being honored.

Stone just said he was contributing to the school and team the best way he could and was happy to do so without ever being recognized for it . He sticks by the old adage that there is no “I” in team. There is one in “Tigers” though, and Stone got to dot it.

faith and not be distracted so we can rise here at this park, and rise above the situation.” Claytor said another issue he has been working on is an updated pedestrian crosswalk system for downtown Chester. He also proposes reducing the speed limit to 15 mph on Gadsden Street, to make it safer and give pedestrians more room to operate.

“These pedestrians are not only walking downtown for joy, they’re also consumers (of local businesses) and a lot of downtown folks have done some very nice things to the fronts of their buildings, that people should

father was in this condition — I thought that a lot of kids were utilizing this park, but I see that it’s being utilized the wrong way,” Guy said.

“I don’t mince my words, when I say something needs to be done.

And as a black political leader in Chester, I think we owe it to my father George Guy who was a pillar in black politics here in Chester. I think we need to honor our black pillars of the community, just as we have Jeff Brown with the Jeff Brown Park in Chester” he said.

Guy explained there were different types of funds and he thinks things

cilmember Mary Guy was also present at the meeting. “At one time when this park was constructed, it was really nice, there were picnic areas and we had some grills around where you could cook hotdogs, but the park has really run down.

“I think some people think because it’s called Guy Park that it belongs to the Guy family. Not so, every park in this city and county are named for someone, but their families are not the ones who have to take care of them; it’s the city and county who have to take care of them,” she said.

“This park belongs to

SEE I’S/PAGE A3

City Council argues over information sharing TJENKINS@ONLINECHESTER.COM

Wednesday, October 4, 2023 The News & RepoRTeR A3

that life is about giving back and helping people whenever you can,” said his son Pete.

Most people probably assume the first aid station is primarily for people for whom the festivities begin a little too early on days that it’s a little too hot to be doing so. Dehydration is certainly something Stone has seen plenty of times. He recollected treating about 175 people a few years ago for a home game against Texas A&M. “I don’t think I saw more than two minutes of the game,” he said.

Much more serious issues do come up. Stone has treated people suffering from heart attacks, strokes and aneurisms (Stone said he’s dealt with almost ever y medical issue imaginable at games

Administrator Malik Whitaker presented a master fee schedule, covering ever ything from memberships at the Aquatics and Fitness Center to stadium rentals.

SEE COUNCIL/PAGE A4

CLAYTOR FROM PAGE A1 “It has been very busy,” he told the crowd, and sometimes what you have to do in this position is operate the way you know to operate, not necessarily how things are being operated. Meaning, sometimes you sometimes you want to trust other men, and you think that you have to have an answer by your own means, instead of taking the time to call on God. And I that Him because he’s provide wisdom to get through some storms,” Claytor said.

PROVIDED BY CLEMSON UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS

Dr. Sam Stone and family were honored by Clemson University prior to the game against Florida State two weeks ago. aside from delivering a baby).

There have been instances of people arriving to Tiger Town, realizing they’d forgotten their heart or seizure medication and deciding to head on into Memorial Stadium rather than go home and risk missing the game.

“One thing about Clemson fans, they are extremely dedicated,” he said.

He treated one of the sons of Clemson Coach Dabo Swinney (for strep throat) and actually provided aid to a TV broadcaster who was suffering from dehydration.

“We had to hook up an IV to get fluids into his system but had to hide it so it wouldn’t be seen on TV,” Stone said.

Former Coach Tommy

Teresa Ellisor put a face on the opioid crisis as the told the a Summit about her son Caleb, (inset,) who died in 2019 from an soning, at the young age of 21.

Mother whose son fentanyl puts a face

failedone to point Great story! Various schools let alums do similar things but not for the same reason -- kudos to you for finding whatCounty made this so out the st The Chester tics represented lives lost families affected.

Opioid Summit unique and telling the story in a way that let readers better get to know this man, who in his own way, was was integral to Clemson football.

That fact was power held recently brought home to the a Chester County Councilman Corey Guy, left, explains to the crowd about the ways that county and city can cooperate to bring about the revival of the park named in memory of his father. ing, what does a child see when they come to this park? What does any one of us see? It’s not uplifting,” he said.

that the grass is fully cut, garbage and trash picked up, placed in the park a garbage receptacle that is attended weekly, fill

at the Gatewaty

ence when Teresa Ellisor up to speak about her

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Robert Howey The Lancaster News

Trey Stewart The Greer Citizen Anna Brown powers through illness with teammates, family by her side

Local woman wins silver in National Senior Games

BY TREY STEWART SPORTS EDITOR

BY ROBER HOWEY OR ODAY’S WOMAN

D

8 ODAY’S WOMAN ALL/WIN ER 2023

national field, rallied to post seven straight wins in back-to-back succession, including a win over the team that defeated them in the opening match.

“We came back and won the losers’ bracket to get to the gold medal round,” Donna said. “I was pleased, because it was tough going to the losers’ bracket after that first match.

“We worked hard and were proud of ourselves,” she said.

Pat said the duo was driven.

“We were determined,” she said. “We never gave up. We had to focus and work hard.

“That’s hard to do, coming back through the losers’ bracket,” Pat said. “That was an accomplishment, and we were really proud of that.”

Donna was making her fourth pickleball appearance in the Senior National Games. She’s a three-time national qualifier for women’s tennis doubles, too.

Donna’s no stranger to athletic success, going back to her high school days, when she was a key member of the 1959 Lancaster High School girls basketball state championship team, also known as the “Mighty Mites,” due to the team’s lack of height. Back then, the Lancaster team was the Blue Hurricanes.

Several years ago, Donna was also a member of an area tennis team that won a senior state title and advanced to Arkansas, where they won the regional championship.

When Donna played in the Senior National Games, she also competed in the pickleball mixed doubles and placed fifth for a ribbon.

“Pickleball is a game for all ages,” said Donna, who added she’s thrilled that six pickleball courts are being constructed just beyond the tennis courts at USC Lancaster.

“There’s a lot of interest and I feel the pickleball courts at USCL will continue to build interest in the sport,” said Donna, who began her affinity with courts at age 14, when she took up tennis. “It’s a fast-growing sport and a lot of fun. It has drawn a lot of people who now enjoy the game.”

THE GREER CITIZEN B5

‘I didn’t think I was going to make it’

Double(s) the fun onna Fox calls herself a “competitive person.”

So it’s no surprise that her goal for the pickleball competition in the National Senior Games in Pittsburgh this summer was the gold medal.

Donna came close, as she and her women’s doubles partner Pat Truesdale teamed to bring home the silver medal from the July 9 event.

“Our goal was the gold,” said Donna, 81. “Gold was what we wanted, but we came up just a little short.

“I was thrilled with the silver, but a little bit more and we could have won the gold.* The South Carolina duo had a stout challenge off the bat in the national field.

They qualified for the nationals, winning the state title in the tournament at Florence in May 2022.

At the state tourney, they played in the age 70 division, winning in five matches.

“She’s been winning gold In the senior nationand silver in these kinds als, they were in the of events for tennis and age 75-79 division. pickleball for as long as I “We played real well and didn’t lose a can remember. She’s match,” Donna said of incredibly athletic and was the state title run. also on the LHS girls basPickleball, played ketball team that won the on a court about half the size of a tennis state championship.” court, features ele— Tyson Blanton ments of tennis, badDonna Fox’s granddaughter minton and table tennis. The game, played with a whiffle ball and paddle, features a best-of-three game format with the top score of 11, and the winning team must win by two points.

“It’s a real fun game,” said Donna, who’s been playing pickleball for eight years. “It’s not as intense as tennis, which I like. Having played tennis, the transition to pickleball was pretty easy for me.”

But there was nothing easy about Donna and Pat’s run for the coveted gold in Pittsburgh.

They dropped their first match and fell to the losers’ bracket.

“We were hoping to stay in the winners’ bracket, but lost that first match,” Donna said. “Even though we lost, I felt pretty good because we lost to a good team.”

The South Carolina duo, which played a total of nine matches in the 10-team

SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023

Farrington. “[The surprise party] was all the players idea. Greer volleyball is a family, and when Anna tried out and made the team, she became part of that family.”

T

he call was coming from inside the house—the upstairs bedroom, to be specific.

When JB Brown saw his phone ringing on Aug. 16 around 10 a.m., he was surprised to see his daughter Anna’s name on the other line.

“I’m downstairs and she’s calling me. She’s in her bedroom upstairs.

And I’m like, ‘Why is she calling me?’” said JB. “She could just come downstairs.”

When JB went upstairs to check on Anna, he was shocked to find his daughter writhing in pain, unable to move her arms or legs.

“She’s like ‘Dad, I can’t move. I can’t get out of bed.’”

“I’d never felt like that before,” said Anna. “It really freaked me out.

Because I was trying to move, and nothing was moving. I’d try my hardest to move my arms, and they would move a little bit, but every bit of small movement was just this excruciating pain. It was awful.”

CHASING A DIAGNOSIS

PHO OS COUR ESY O

DONNA OX

Donna Fox, right, and Pat Truesdale won the silver medal for women’s doubles in pickleball at the National Senior Games this summer. BELOW: The South Carolina duo is at right on the winners’ podium. Diane Simpson and Susan Johnson, center, won the gold, and Susan Cole and LaRae Donnellan, left, won bronze.

It started as a rash at volleyball practice.

Anna’s just a freshman at Greer High, but she already made the Lady Jacket varsity volleyball team over the summer.

After just the fifth day of her freshman year, Greer volleyball coach Traci Farrington noticed a bright red rash on Anna’s leg during practice.

“She’d had allergies in the past and I was aware of that,” said Farrington.

“I just didn’t want her to take any chances.”

“Coach Farrington called us and told us we needed to come pick her up because she had a rash on her leg,” said Anna’s mom, Jill Brown.

“We didn’t think much of it. She sometimes has allergies, so we assumed it was related to that.”

But the rash slowly progressed. It reached other parts of her body and provoked different symptoms. Allergists, doctors, and blood tests all tried and failed to diagnose what was going on with Anna.

But when Anna woke up the morning of Aug. 16 in

RETURNING THE FAVOR

PHOTO | SUBMITTED

During her stay at the Greenville Memorial Hospital, Anna is visited by Greer volleyball teammates in her room. They brought Anna a gift basket full of candies and a volleyball signed by the entire team.

Hospital which tested her ferritin level -- the amount of iron in one’s blood. The normal levels in young women are around 20-300 milligrams per liter.

Anna’s at the time?

21,000.

Doctors determined Anna was suffering from Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (SJIA).

Fever, rash, swelling, and pain in the joints are all common symptoms. Anna’s complaints lined up.

Estimates show that between five to 15 kids out of every 100,000 suffer from SJIA. “Juvenile obviously because she’s 15 years old, and idiopathic because they don’t know where it comes from,” explained Jill.

Anna smiled.

“Well, the doctors told me it’s called idiopathic because they’re idiots,” she said with a laugh.

“They said they’re idiots because they don’t know where it comes from.”

FAMILY MATTERS

It’s October 5th now, and Anna’s back home.

She sits at the end of the dinner table with both parents by her side.

Anna’s wearing her black Greer volleyball t-shirt.

Her dad sports a thick

PHOTO | SUBMITTED

Anna is introduced before Greer’s game against Eastside on Sept. 14 after being released from a 26-day hospital stay. Her apperance at the game was kept under wraps from her teammates, who erupted in cheers when they saw her. alternated days staying with their daughter.

Some nights were harder on her than others.

“I’ll be honest. There were some nights when I was in the hospital that I didn’t think I was going

Anna had only made it five days into her freshman year before her world turned upside down. The most heartbreaking loss for her, however, was the opportunity to be with her volleyball team and be

by herself at the hospital.

Her teammates weren’t about to let that happen.

The entire Greer volleyball team — players, coaches, assistants — showed up at Greenville Memorial Hospital on

After her teammates surprised her at the hospital, Anna wanted to return the favor.

She picked Sept. 14 to do it.

She had just been released from the hospital.

Her first stop? Greer High School’s gymnasium. Her volleyball teammates were warming up to take on Eastside that evening.

“We texted Birdie Barbare, one of the assistant volleyball coaches, and she let Anna sneak in the back door to the gym,” said JB. “Anna came around the back, and when her teammates saw her, it was incredible.”

“Anna’s dad told me she was going to be coming, but I didn’t tell the team because I knew Anna wanted it to be a surprise,” said Farrington.

Farrington became emotional recounting the moment Anna’s teammates saw her walk into the gym.

“You can give a lot of lip service. But it was very obvious, when she walked in the gym and those girls got excited about her being there, that the love was real,” said Farrington.

“She was truly a part of it, and they were truly grateful to see her. It just felt like such a blessing, for both Anna and the girls.

“I think it warmed Anna’s heart that they received her like that, and it also was so special to each of her teammates to see her out there again.”

Anna was introduced before the game in the team’s lineup for the first time. Her teammates — and just about everyone else in the gym — erupted when her name came over the speakers. She ran down the line of teammates and received highfives from each of them.

And while Anna’s illness has forced her out for this season, it hasn’t stopped her from being the loudest cheerer from the bench each game.

She’s just thankful to be back with her newfound family.

“There were nights in the hospital where I’d be

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Enter the Ledger Pick ‘Em contest in each Monday’s paper for your chance to win $100!

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Becky from Gaffney

By ABBIE SOSSAMON Ledger News Editor abbie@gaffneyledger.com Originally a Gamecock, ‘Becky from Gaffney’ is now “ALL IN” for Clemson.

The 1961 Gaffney High graduate has become a celebrity among Clemson fans for her commentary on head coach Dabo Swinney’s weekly call-in radio show, Tiger Calls on the Roar. The show airs Mondays from 8-9 p.m. on 105.5 FM. Becky didn’t grow up an avid sports fan, though, and her family didn’t root for either of the South Carolina teams. She began cheering for the Gamecocks after her high school friend Leroy Bailey received a scholarship to USC and did so until the mid-1990s.

In 1964, she married longtime Clemson fan Sanny Wolfe with whom she had three children. She worked at Milliken in the lab with a majority of men and had to learn sports talk if she wanted to be involved in the conversation come Monday morning.

It was during her son Chris’ senior year at Clemson that Becky traded her garnet for orange.

“It was the Carolina-Clemson game when Steve Taneyhill was a senior,” she recalled. “It was cold and rainy and I rode down to Clemson with Carolina fan Freddie Harmon. Carolina beat Clemson and Taneyhill went to the tiger paw in the middle of the field and stomped it. From that day on, I became a full Clemson Tiger fan.”

Spoken like a true, die-hard Tiger, Becky now pulls against the Gamecocks in any sport.

“I hope they lose everything they play,” she said.

“Last week Gaffney won, Clemson won, Dallas won, and if only Carolina had lost it would have been the perfect weekend.”

Becky Wolfe has been a Dabo fan from the beginning.

During Tommy Bowden’s coaching years, Becky began infrequent calls to the radio show. Not afraid to voice her opinion, she often questioned why he — or any coach — would call for a pitch on third-and-1 or fourth-and-1.

“If regular people like me can see it doesn’t work time and time again, I just can’t understand why the coaches can’t see that. And they’re the ones making l See BECKY, PAGE 2

Coroner says human remains found in Blacksburg hadmy been there at least one month Not at all what I expected from a sports feature, but I loved it! Didn’t capture attention too much at first,

but the more I read theGRINCH more captivated GREETER I became... and the ending? Priceless!

STAFF REPORT

It’s beginning to look like Christmas. Nestle signage

The Cherokee County Coroner and Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office are investigating human remains that were found on a Blacksburg property Tuesday.

Shortly before noon, a homeowner in the 1200 block

male. Fowler said it appears the body had been in the location for more than a month.

“I am currently working to identify the remains through a scheduled autopsy and determine a cause and manner of death,” Fowler said.

Investigators and crime scene officers with the Che-

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Zoe Nicholson The Post and Courier Columbia/ Free Times

Anna Sharpe Moultrie News

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FIRST PLACE Samantha Winn The Post and Courier North Augusta/The Star I liked the story. I liked how you took me on a journey.

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FROM GREEN BAY TO GREENWOOD

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The story behind the G

Cam Adams Index-Journal

GRAPHIC BY CAM ADAMS

By CAM ADAMS cadams@indexjournal.com

A

s a prominent high school football coach, Julius Wistar “Pinky” Babb made a lot of connections in his 39 years as head coach at Greenwood High.

His Emeralds were sought after, often landing on the collegiate rosters of South Carolina, Clemson and many other state schools.

The ties made through visits to those schools and national organizations led to his son, Brush Babb, picking up a significant package in the summer of 1962.

The package’s return address caught the high school quarterback’s eye.

“Green Bay Football Packers, Office of Vince Lombardi.”

Inside the large envelope were football-shaped G helmet decals, which the Packers used for the first time in 1961, and ones Pinky Babb wanted to use on Greenwood helmets.

Why? “He just liked the way it looked on (helmets),” said Brush Babb, now a retired Orangeburg vascular surgeon. “Incidentally, kind of out of nowhere, he decided because Greenwood, Green Bay, etc., all of that seemed to fit what my father liked about the gold helmets that we had.

CAM ADAMS | INDEX-JOURNAL

“We’re just going weather, the footin and execute and p ally doesn’t matter.

It is possible th playoff berth this sults fall their way, without Jackson, w leaving a Dec. 4 v a knee injury.

Atlanta put Mar because of knee pr for rookie Desmon but at quarterback So it looks as i Baltimore’s Tyler H assuming Huntley under control.

The Ravens and 31st in the league just because of thei Baltimore hasn’t ha touchdown pass si only one wide rece with a reception in Orleans. The rest were by running b The good news can certainly run t field is solid now th Edwards are as he a while. The Rave ground attack in 13-3 loss to Cleve both Harbaugh an Greg Roman sugg they could have things differently.

Dobbins and Edwa Atlanta rookie T yards and a touchd While the Raven

See FALCONS, pa

Pinky Babb’s name, alongside nine of his state titles and the G on the scoreboard, is the namesake of Greenwood’s football stadium.

“He thought that placing a G on it would put a hometown effect for Greenwood wherever they went and he really liked that.”

freshly painted Greenwood gold helmets.

The helmet stickers were one of the first of their kind, as high school teams didn’t have decals on their helmets until much later.

As for the G’s, they were the second of their kind. Greenwood football was likely the second-ever team to sport them, after Green Bay and before Georgia and Grambling State in 1964 and 1965, respectively.

And with a logo one and the same with an NFL powerhouse that had just won a league championship in 1961, the Emeralds were thrilled to wear them.

“When we all found out about it, we were

Popularity of the G Over the last 60 years, the Greenwood G has represented a school and community rich in tradition and winning.

The emblem has become synonymous with Greenwood football, and it all started with a letter or phone call to Phil Bengtson, a Green Bay assistant between 1959 and 1967.

Pinky Babb, who had become friends with Bengtson through his football travels, requested permission to use the G’s. Sometime later, those G’s were placed on the sides of the See STORY, page 3B

Atlanta Falcons ru er runs in for a t front of New Orl Demario Davis in Dec. 18 game in

Slow progress but once it gets you, you have never cared about the letter G like this before.

Great CHRISTMAS development and MERRY frombehind our family to yours! drawing out history with quotes and timeline. Excellent perspective on the people the story.

We appreciate your business!

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Samantha Swann Herald-Journal

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FIRST PLACE Mary Dimitrov The Island Packet Well written article. Very attention grabbing. Doesn’t allow reader to get bored in article.

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Benjamin Simon The Post and Courier

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FIRST PLACE Jon Blau The Post and Courier Exceptionally done profile on this individual and the challenging – but rewarding – journey he took!

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The Laurens County Advertiser

November 8, 2023

PC's Purcell announces retirement from women's soccer helm after 35 years

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

THIRD PLACE Justin Jarrett The Island News

PC Athletics photo

GOING UP — Presbyterian linemen Carter Szydlowski (97) and Harrison Kennedy (99) try to block a San Diego field-goal attempt by Aidan Lehman (26) Saturday afternoon at Bailey Memorial Stadium.

PC woes continue in loss to Toreros

By John Clayton Editor For the third time this season, Presbyterian watched a twoscore lead evaporate.

And for the third straight game, PC suffered a Pioneer Football League setback, losing to visiting San Diego 23-13 Saturday afternoon at Bailey Memorial Stadium.

The Blue Hose led 7-0 after Jaden Wright turned a Torero turnover into an 18-yard touchdown run with 8:11 left in the third quarter, and freshman kicker Mack Mikko added the first of his two field goals from 45 yards out to stretch the lead to 10-0 with 11:48 left in the second quarter.

Both of Mikko’s kicks capped nine-play drives by the Blue Hose, but the PC offense struggled to sustain drives beyond those against the Toreros.

“I thought we started off really good, obviously, getting the turnover on the punt and were able to punch in a score there,” said PC head coach Steve Englehart. “I thought our defense played really well. Our defense was put in a lot of bad situations because of field position.”

San Diego, which improved to 4-0 against PC and 3-0 at Bailey Memorial Stadium, started six of its drives inside Blue Hose territory.

Meanwhile, the Blue Hose spent most of the afternoon with

their backs to their own goal line, starting nine drives at or inside their own 15-yard line.

That left long fields and opportunities for errors for the PC offense. PC was 3 of 13 on third-down attempts, while holding San Diego to 4 of 13 on third down.

“We did a lot of things to hurt ourselves and give a lot of credit to San Diego,” Englehart said. “I think they saw where the game was trending, which was a defensive battle, and they said we’re just going to play field position the best that we can and wait for a mistake to happen. And, you know, we were the ones that made the mistake.”

Sophomore quarterback Tyler Wesley completed 14 of 30 passes for 153 yards and two interceptions, including a last-minute pick-six by San Diego’s Zamir Wallace that gave the Toreros a two-score lead.

San Diego (3-5 overall, 3-3 Pioneer Football League) took its first lead of the game, 16-13, on Aidan Lehman’s 47-yard field goal with 2:50 left in the game.

Lehman had missed two earlier field-goal attempts before finally connecting.

PC (3-6, 1-5) will attempt to end its three-game skid at 1 p.m. this Saturday at Drake in Des Moines, Iowa. The Bulldogs (63, 6-0) have won six PFL games, including a 25-20 victory over San Diego on Oct. 21, and are tied atop the PFL with Davidson.

The Bulldogs are also first in

team total defense by a large margin, giving up 259 yards a game and just seven touchdowns this season in league play. Their PFL opponents are scoring 12.3 points per game.

“They play extremely hard and run to the ball,” Englehart said.

“You always see 11 hats at the ball on film. So it will be a big challenge for our offense.

Offensively, they have the ability to score and score fast. . . . It’s going to be a big challenge for us with the flight up there and to go play well. I think it’ll be a big special teams game. Our special teams has to show up and do a better job of not only maintaining but creating some field position for us. We’ll see what happens, but I know it’ll be a tough, tough contest.”

Clinton’s Kadon Crawford completed a hat-trick this week by being named the Laurens County Touchdown Club Player of the Week for the third time this season.

The Touchdown Club announced Crawford’s selection Monday.

The versatile receiver/linebacker will be honored at the club’s next meeting on Nov. 16.

In the Red Devils’ openinground 42-18 playoff victory over Palmetto, Crawford scored three touchdowns – two receiving and one rushing – and had 85 yards of total offense. On defense, he recorded six tackles, including one for loss, and forced a fumble.

“Kadon Crawford is a hardworking blue-collar kid who gives you everything he has when he is playing, on both sides of the ball,” said Clinton head coach Corey Fountain. “Kadon is a vocal leader as well and he leads by example.

There is not a kid on the team that is more competitive than Kadon Crawford.”

Crawford also announced on social media this past week that he has received his first NCAA Division I offer from hometown Presbyterian.

The next scheduled meeting of the Touchdown Club on Nov. 16 will feature the annual preview of the Clemson-South Carolina game. Former Gamecock and NFL player Patrick Dimarco will be speaking for his alma mater, while the Tigers will be represented by former Clemson player and current assistant coach Danny Pearman.

Tickets for the lunch meeting will be available at the door for

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2B

The Laurens County Advertiser

October 4, 2023

Knights surge past Crusaders

Indy impasse: Bulldogs rip B

By John Clayton Editor

By John Clayton Editor Faith Christian put Laurens Academy away in the second half, beating the Crusaders 226 in a SCISA 8-man non-region contest at LA’s Todd Kirk Field.

LA (1-5) took a 6-0 lead into halftime, but was unable to slow down the Knights over the final two quarters.

The Crusaders scored in the first quarter on a 19-yard pass from freshman quarterback Ethan Collins to Garrett Murphy.

But Murphy and running back/wideout/defensive back Buddy Baker left the game late in the first quarter due to injuries, putting LA at a disadvantage without two of their most productive players on both sides of the ball.

Murphy caught four passes for a team-high 48 yards and LA’s lone score before he exited. Collins completed 11 of 21 passes for 103 yards with a touchdown and an interception.

Nathan Bell led the Crusaders defensively with 16 total tackles with two fumble recoveries and Wyatt Overton added 12.

“I thought our defense played

Host Butler held Presbyterian scoreless over the final two quarters and downed the Blue Hose 2717 Saturday in Indianapolis, ending PC’s two-game winning streak.

PC held a 17-14 lead at halftime, thanks to a pair of long Dominic Kibby touchdown receptions – 93 and 75 yards – from Tyler Wesley.

But the Bulldogs opened the second half with a nearly 9-minute scoring drive for the go-ahead touchdown, a 14-yard pass from quarterback Bret Bushka to Ryan Lezon with 6:12 left in the third quarter that put Butler ahead 2117.

Kicker Luka Zurak hit a pair of field goals in the fourth quarter to give the Bulldogs their final 27-17 cushion.

“We battled and played tough but I thought they controlled the game for the most part,” said PC head coach Steve Englehart, who was returning to his home state of Indiana for the first time as PC’s head coach.

Butler used its ground game to stymie the Blue Hose’s big play ability, keeping the PC offense off the field for the bulk of the second half. The Bulldogs dominated the time of possession, keeping the ball for 41 minutes, 19 seconds of game time.

Englehart said one key was Butler’s ability to extend drives, going a combined 10 of 17 (59%) on third and fourth downs.

While PC had the advantage on explosive plays, including its two

SECOND PLACE PC Athletics photo

SO LONG — Presbyterian women’s soccer coach Brian Purcell announced his retirement this past week after 35 years at his alma mater.

leaving a great legacy to a program that he nurtured for 35 years, while serving as a role model to many student-athletes and coaches in our department.

“Even though he is moving on from Presbyterian, his influence here will continue for years to come. I’d personally like to thank Brian for being a wonderful colleague and friend. PC Athletics wishes him well in his next adventure.”

In the wake of Purcell’s retirement, former associate head coach Tanner Osborne, who has been on staff at PC for eight years, has been named the interim head coach of Blue Hose women’s soccer.

Here are highlights from Purcell’s 35-year career at PC: South Atlantic Conference (1989-06) While the Blue Hose were a member of the South Atlantic Conference (SAC), Purcell’s squads advanced to the NCAA Division II tournament on five separate occasions – 1994, ’95, ’97, ’99 and ’03.

When PC jumped ship to the Big South and NCAA Division I, Purcell was the SAC’s all-time leader in total conference wins (81) and a seven-time league Coach of the Year recipient. His 207 victories at the D-II level were the sixth-most in history,

going on to win 77 more over the past 17 seasons.

Purcell was selected as the National NSCAA Coach of the Year in 1994 after leading PC to a 15-3 mark, later matching that win count in 1999 (15-2-1) and spending a week at number one in the NSCAA poll.

Big South Conference (2007Present) As a member of the Big South, PC notched 77 wins, including 49 victories at Martin Stadium.

PC achieved its highest D-I win count during the 2013 semester by going 9-9 with six conference triumphs. Five years later in 2018, the Blue Hose nearly equaled that number by posting eight overall wins. Over the past five campaigns, PC has earned 11 wins when competing on their home base.

During his decade-and-a-half at the Division I stage, Purcell has directed 16 all-conference honorees (four of which landed on the all-Big South first team roster).

On 14 different dates since joining the division, a Blue Hose player has been chosen by the league for a weekly award.

His final victory as PC’s head coach came on Oct. 9, a 1-0 decision against Winthrop in Clinton.

Sixteen years ago, Purcell got his first D-I victory over The Citadel by a 5-0 score.

Photo by Connor Watson

KNIGHTED — Laurens Academy’s Wyatt Overton (44) and Caleb Hardy (8) make a stop against Faith Christian FB Patrick Carter (76) Friday night.

John Clayton Laurens County Advertiser

Scoring Summary San Diego 23, PC 13 1Q PC – Jaden Wright 18 run (Mack Mikko kick), 8:11, 7-0.

2Q PC – Mikko 45 FG, 11:48, 10-0.

SD – Re-al Mitchell 2 run (Aidan Lehman kick), 7:21, 107.

PC – Mikko 35 FG, 3:32, 13-7.

4Q SD – Josh Heverly 7 pass from Dom Nankil (kick failed), 13:49, 13-13.

SD – Lehman 47 FG, 2:50, 1613.

SD – Zamir Wallace 21 INT return (Lehman kick), :15, 2313.

And I remember a group of fans at IU’s Midnight Madness who turned a large bed sheet into a banner that read, “We drank the Kool-Aid” and turning their backs when former Knight assistant Mike Davis took the news editor court for the first time as Knight’s replacement.

Davis ended up taking the sitting in our basement in Terre Hoosiers to the Final Four and Haute, Indiana on Park Avenue and national championship game in watching IU basketball,” said PC 2002 – IU’s last trip there – but they head football coach Steve Englehart. never loved him or any of those who “My mom said on the text, ‘He sure have come after. gave us a lot of great memories.’”

September 2023 They certainly never 20, worshiped I have memories, too. them. Generations of coaches didn’t My legitimate fear was being the emulate him or anyone else the way guy who asked the innocuous ques- they have Knight in Indiana. tion about an opponent’s zone There is even a bit of him in defense that somehow incurred the Englehart, who is realistic about the coach’s wrath and got him fired dur- flaws that created one of the more ing the “zero tolerance” phase of his complex and, in some ways, tragic IU career. figures in American sports.

That was Knight’s fatal flaw after “I think sometimes in this day, we all. His emotions and his temper need to remember that sometimes became increasingly you need to be tough on players,” It felt different flammable Saturday night, materials somewhere inside him.

All Englehart said. “And players will yet kind of familiar. it took was the hint of a spark to light respond from that. They’ll love a It felt like it mattered – or atcoach leastbetter for it because they know an explosion. like I hadplayers, incurredfans that and wrathcoaches before wantit’s for their betterment – for making behind the scenes, but also got an them a better person.” ed it to. occasional comment IU’s He’s right, of course. Even so, one Wofford’s Gibbsfrom Stadium was sports information director, saying thing is certain: The likes of Bob the setting 86ththismeeting that, “Coach likedfor yourthe column Knight won’t be seen again, not in between the PC and the Terriers ...” or “Coach thinks you’re full of coaching. It can’t be. since The record: 42-41-3It’sina different game now. …” well,1914. something.

lights out,” said LA head coach Jolly Doolittle. “We played really hard against what everybody is saying is the fourth-best team in the state right now.”

The defensive unit combined for 11.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 quarterback sacks and two

forced fumbles.

Faith Christian improved to 5-2 on the season.

LA will have a bye week this coming Friday (Oct. 6) and will return to action on Oct. 13 at home against W.W. King Academy.

Hurricanes blow past Saints, 56-6

By John Clayton Editor

The home-schooled Greenville Hurricanes schooled Thornwell Charter Friday night, downing the visiting Saints 56-6.

McLeod Green ran for 137 yards and three touchdowns on just six carries to lead the Hurricanes, who jumped out to a 23-0 lead in the first quarter.

Thornwell’s only score came in the second quarter on an 80yard pass from Parker Workman to Kaevon

Knight’s death sparks memories

I’m not sure people in South Carolina or any other state truly understand just who or what Bob Knight was in Indiana.

I spent six years in Indiana at the end of the Knight era at Indiana University, which has a huge number of grassroots fans there the way Clemson and South Carolina do here, and the beginning of whatever has come since in Bloomington, and Black Cyan Magenta Yellow parts of me are still trying to figure it out.

It’s, well, complicated – and that may be too simple a term for it.

During the final days, when Knight was put on some sort of “zero tolerance” double-secret probation by then IU president Myles Brand, the entire state seemed on edge.

Those passionate fans of Knight, who saw him as coach, friend, father, mythical leader, second coming of Gen. George S. Patton and patron saint of Indiana basketball all rolled into one, were behind him despite the rumors of him choking a former player during a practice and despite the Hoosiers’ recent lackluster performances at tournament time.

He operated in broad strokes, with genuine acts of benevolence and malevolence that seemed then and seem now that they couldn’t have possibly come from the same person.

He could be funny, insightful and charming or boorish and childish.

While Knight stalked the sidelines at games, berated members of the media in the press room and struck back against changing times, a changing game and whatever powers that were, he spoke to those fans, and File photo by John Clayton they were ready to fight with him.

He gave them something to 5 FOR 3 — Clinton WR/LB Kadon Crawford (5) was named Laurens County Touchdown Club Player of the Week for the believe in – something familiar and steady. To them, the Hoosiers played third time this season. basketball the right way with hardteam finished third at this past qualifier. nosed man-to-man defense and a weekend’s Class 3A state qualifiSophomore Cody Patterson and fire emblematic of a state in love er in Newberry and qualified for freshman Hunter Power both with the game from Milan to this Friday’s state meet that will qualified for the state meet.

Evansville, Fort Wayne to Terre also be held in Newberry.

Haute.

The Red Devils placed their top Prep Notes: Thornwell Charter That spoke to them, too. four runners in the top 20. will host Laurens Academy in a “We had a family text going on, The top eight teams from each girls basketball scrimmage at 10 and when Coach Knight passed, it division qualified for the state a.m. Saturday. The Thornwell brought back a lot of memories of meet. boys team will host Green Charter William Reid led Clinton with a (Greenville) at 6 p.m. Friday. Both third-place finish in 16 minutes, Saints teams are set to begin their 40 seconds. Sam Gearheart (10th, seasons on Nov. 28 at home 17:34), Hayden Stinson (18th, against Clear Dot Charter. . . . The 18:03) and Gage Dominick (19th, Clinton competitive cheer team 18:06) followed in the top 20. was to compete Tuesday in the

Red Devils' Crawford earns TD Club honor for 3rd time

By John Clayton Editor

From Staff Reports The only head coach in Presbyterian College women’s soccer history announced his retirement Thursday afternoon through the school.

Brian Purcell, a PC alumnus who began his career as the Blue Hose head coach soon after his 1987 graduation, completed his final season on Oct. 25 with a 1-1 tie at Martin Stadium against Big South Conference opponent Longwood. PC finished the season 3-10-3.

“To have been able to spend my entire coaching career at my alma mater is more than I could have ever asked for or imagined,” said Purcell. “I will forever be grateful to the late Coach Cally Gault for hiring me and believing in me all those years ago. I’m also extremely grateful to my PC coach and mentor, Coach Ralph Polson, who played an integral role in starting the women’s soccer program in ’89 and in my hiring. I also want to thank my wife, Kim, for being so supportive and patient. The life of a coach’s spouse can be challenging to say the least. Her partnership in this journey has allowed it to be as enduring as it has.

“I’ve also been fortunate to have many great assistant coaches over the years. Each of them has left an indelible mark on me and the program. “Finally and most importantly, I want to thank the players. Coaching all of you has been one of the greatest blessings of my life. You were all amazing to coach but I am even prouder of the women you have become.”

As the program’s director since the beginning and later overseeing PC’s transition to the Division I ranks in 2007, Purcell finishes his coaching career with 284 total victories, six regular season conference championships, and two tournament titles. The bulk of those victories – 207 – came at the Division II record.

“The impact that Coach Purcell will leave on Presbyterian College is immeasurable and invaluable,” commented PC Director of Athletics Dee Nichols. “He is

Washington.

Washington had nine catches for 145 yards and the score, w h i l e Wo r k m a n completed 11 of 22 passes for 140 yards, the touchdown and Kaevon two interWashington ceptions.

The Saints (1-5) gave up 56 points for the

second straight week.

Despite the losses, Thornwell head coach Charlie Washington said he sees growth.

“I’ve got different kids each week making more and more plays than in Week 1,” he said.

The Hurricanes (4-2) held the Saints to minus-7 yards on the ground.

Thornwell will have an open date this coming Friday (Oct. 6) before hosting another team of home-schoolers, the Anderson Cavaliers, on Oct. 13.

Waldron’s tennis journey nets S.C. Hall of Fame induction

JOHN CLAYTON

JOHN CLAYTON news editor

I can imagine the meme now: A photo of a young Chuck Waldron – the kid with a wooden racquet back then and an unquenchable love for tennis – with the caption: “How it started – 234 straight losses9as a The Laurens County Advertiser junior amateur.”

And then, a current photo of the somewhat grayer Coach Waldron with the caption: “How it’s going – 2023 S.C. Tennis Hall of Fame.”

Waldron, who laughs now about the few top players in the state back then that played a major role in the streak, is set to be inducted into the hall alongside fellow coach and close friend David Holly of Belton schools are two the 18smallest duringofa Nov. ceremony in Isle of Palms. football-playing colleges in “I’m overwhelmed. I mean, Division I. because there are guys in there like, of(Wimbledon and U.S. Punching out your weight Open champion) Stan Smith,” class every week is a tough forgosh, Waldron said. “I gig mean, a small school.I’ll never forget the day Stan called me to be his assistant to Wofford found success understaff. the national coaching That led me toAyers be working former head coach Mike but with people like Andre Agassi and has mostly floundered histhose Pete Samprassince and all has never found its But I am a grumpy old man who retirement. PCguys.

“That opened up my life, but three winning seaappreciates and loves small college footing with just it also built my confidence. I’ve Division I my in life, never worked a day in football and wants to see it survive sons since joining to be honest with you. I’ve while the seismic changes of the 2007. loved every day of it. So, I’m When the Blue Hose a Power 5 conferences swirl around honored.

I’mmounted deeply honored.”

But the important stuff, game-winning stuff drive in the final the it. that has mattered so much the Terriers I would like to see it matter not minutes against to Waldron’s hometown of ClintonWofford and the rest Laurens forof the just to programs like PC and Saturday, they beat County, is the stuff that has 1995 andbetween defeated Wofford and their supporters every first time sincehappened all athose losses and the upcomingfor Hall of Division I scholarship program Saturday.

Fame induction. victory The relationship between PC, the first time since Yes, athe24-14 streak was eventually stopped,inand Waldron excelled 2019.

Wofford and the other programs it over Gardner-Webb at Presbyterian College and It was physical. was a little should be playing weekly have played It competitively until the age of 50 in pro-am tournabeen complicated by PC’s move to salty. ments. Make no mistake, that And it sureearlyseemed likehaveold non-scholarship football, the coaststreak would beaten the love out of the game right to-coast Pioneer Football League times. out of 99% of the population.

Despite sporadic meetings coupled with an inexplicable averYes, that’s where it over began, but it’s hardly the most important sion to even discuss renewing the the past 30 years, the Wofford-PC

Wofford-PC what small college football should be ... again JOHN CLAYTON editor

favor of Wofford thanks to a sevengame winning streak that ended dramatically Saturday night.

PC snapped that bit of Terrier dominance with a last-minute 2320 win Saturday 40 minutes or so up I-26 in Spartanburg.

Maybe it mattered a little more because as PC head coach Steve Englehart said afterward, “so many of the kids know one another.”

Many on both rosters had been OPEN BAR • DINNER at 7:30 recruited from places like Chapin, Lexington and Travelers Rest.

AUCTION & RAFFLES Some are former high school teamTickets couple mates.

Some$60 are single—$100 old friends.

And alwayscall the secret Forwasn’t earlythat tickets 923-1617 sauce of small college football in this state? Saturdays were so often Bronze Derby game with mini civil wars and family feuds. Newberry or to welcome old SACWhile the big boys played in 8 foes like Lenoir-Rhyne, Catawba Clemson and Columbia, places like or even Erskine to the schedule.

Clinton, Newberry and While Newberry and PC no Spartanburg offered cheaper tick- longer play one another in any sport

Laurens County Ducks Unlimited

Banquet

Nov. 16, 6:00 p.m.

The Ridge at Laurens

Dr. McCartha & Dr. McClary

We love serving our patients

rivalry seemed so much more intense and pure than a contrived border war with Davidson or some invented ill-will toward Stetson or Morehead State.

Maybe it’s unlikely or even

Engleh tage on or mo those e and w quarte in.”

The Pionee Bailey Saturd p.m.

The ing off opened 28-18 “Th a lot Engleh got to cating. some s I expe hard-fo

BU – J Zurak PC – D Tyler W 7-7, 9:

BU – kick), PC – K (Mikk PC – M

BU – Bushk

BU – Z BU – Z

Red Devils' Crawford ho for 2nd straight week by

By John Clayton Editor

Clinton receiver Kadon Crawford has been named Player of the Week by the Laurens County Touchdown Club for the second straight week after his record-setting performance against Union County Friday night.

C r aw f o r d set a new CHS single-game record for receiving Kadon yards with 191 Crawford yards in the 51-28 victory over the Yellowjackets at Wilder Stadium. His 191 yards came on seven catches and included a 44yard touchdown reception as well as a 50-yard catch to set up another Red Devils score.

“Kadon continues to be a leader on and off the field,” said CHS head coach Corey Fountain of his senior captain. “He is a great competitor; he’s everywhere on the field and his relentlessness rubs off on the other players on the team.”

Crawford will be honored for both his Player of the Week performances at Thursday’s Touchdown Club meeting at The Ridge at Laurens.

Former Wofford head coach Mike Ayers, who was inducted into the South Carolina Football Hall of Fame this past April, will be the featured speaker.

Tickets for the lunch meeting can be purchased at the door for $15.

All meetings are at noon with the food service line opening at 11:45 am.

Photo by John Clayton

HALL PASS — Long-time tennis coach and instructor Chuck Waldron of Clinton works with children at the Clinton Family YMCA recently. Waldron is set to be inducted into the South Carolina Tennis Hall of Fame in November. number in Waldron’s long story. Junior Tennis program when he Let’s throw out another one – was 15 years old, a group that 113. has been a pipeline for players That’s the number of players at Clinton High School’s highly Waldron has coached who decorated program and for the earned college scholarships in former Thornwell High School the sport. tennis team, which Waldron That’s 113 kids who got a also coached. decent swing at a college eduAs the Clinton Family YMCA cation and the opportunities was celebrating its 50th birththat can bring. day in mid-September, Waldron Belton’s Rex Maynard, who was working on one of the Y’s will present Waldron at the newly resurfaced tennis courts induction ceremony, said his surrounded typically by a group daughters were two of of young boys and girls holding Waldron’s protégés who played racquets that sometimes collegiately. seemed way too big for them.

“There’s also a lot of kids he’s But someday they won’t be. taught who aren’t junior players Someday they’ll fit just fine and don’t play in college, but he and maybe they, like Waldron, taught them to love the game,” will have a lifelong passion to said Maynard, who credited follow or like so many of those Waldron for rejuvenating before them, a pathway to a colBelton’s stalwart youth tennis lege education. program in the 1990s.

A large basket was suddenly “Most of his players are refilled with bright yellow known for showing good balls, and Waldron removes one sportsmanship and for playing and drops it toward the taut the game the way it’s supposed strings of his own racquet and to be played. He’s always pops it over the net. emphasized that.”

“OK, guys,” he said. “We’ve Those are the life lessons. got one more game we’re going Waldron started the Clinton to play.”

touchdowns, the Blue Hose were 2 of 10 (20%) on third down and 0for-1 on fourth down.

Butler running back Jyran Mitchell gained 149 yards and scored a touchdown on 31 carries.

Quarterback Bret Bushka ran for 99 yards and a touchdown and completed 17 of 26 passes for 148 yards with a touchdown and an interception.

“We knew they did their ‘Wildcat’ (formation) stuff on offense; we just didn’t expect them to live in it as much as they did,” Englehart said. “One reason they did that was because they had success doing it, and they were in a multitude of third downs and short.”

Despite Butler’s advantage on the game clock, PC led at halftime behind Kibby’s big plays.

Wesley connected on 17 of 28 passes for 323 yards with the two scores to Kibby, who had five catches for 199 yards.

Kibby’s first touchdown reception was from 93 yards with 9:02 left in the first quarter and tied the game at 7-7. He tied the game once again at 14-14 on a 75-yard catch with 8:05 left in the second quarter.

Both of Kibby’s touchdowns came less than a minute after Butler scored.

Mack Mikko’s 44-yard field goal gave the Blue Hose a 17-14 lead with 4:58 left in the second quarter that they carried into halftime.

“We look at the explosive plays on offense and the turnover battle, and we won both of those things,”

LA winning streak at 12 The Laurens Academy volleyball team ran its winning streak to 13 straight matches with a pair of 3-0 victories last week and a 3-1 win Monday.

The Crusaders defeated W.W. King Academy 25-8, 25-5, 25-8 on

SENIOR — Laurens tennis player K on the team’s Senior Night this past Tuesday (Sept. 26) in Batesburg Union before returning home to down ping a Wardlaw Academy 25-7, 25-10, 25Cha 14.

Kimor LA downed Greenwood and A Christian Monday night, 25-15, 25- gles vi 22, 24-26, 25-18 to improve its bles te record to 22-3-2, 11-0 SCISA Wesley Region 4-1A. Prep Saints split 2 matches the L The Thornwell Charter School Monda volleyball team scored a victory singles over Calhoun Falls Charter School recogn Thursday, bouncing back from a Buddy radio v Sept. 26 loss to McCormick.

The Saints (7-4) defeated the athletic Blue Flashes 3-0 (25-8, 25-20, 25- the rec Award 23).

Madi Porter led Thornwell with Distric 11 digs and five service aces while meetin Karleigh Porter and Lindley honor Beckett recorded four kills apiece. district McCormick downed Thornwell 3A sta ball te 3-1 (25-8, 25-20, 19-25, 25-18). of Fri Clinton tennis blanks Union game Players The Clinton tennis team defeated onship

PC volleyball spikes Spartans The Presbyterian College volleyball team is in the midst of a fourmatch winning streak, a string that includes back-to-back road victories Friday and Saturday at UNC Asheville and USC Upstate.

The Blue Hose started their weekend Friday with a 3-1 (23-25, 25-21, 29-27, 25-16) Big South Conference victory at UNC Asheville.

Ashley Miller led PC with a career-high 17 kills with a .351 hitting percentage. Jordan McAda added eight blocks and Kinsey Bailey recorded 27 assists with seven digs.

On Saturday, PC downed the Spartans 3-1 (12-25, 25-19, 25-23, 25-23) to stay unbeaten in the Big South.

Miller led the way again for the Blue Hose (5-9 overall, 3-0 Big South) with 15 kills, and Kasey

Blu Battle added 14. Anna Baranski had 20 assists and Sophia Del Valle wome recorded 20 digs for the Blue Hose. contin home Panthe Blue Hose, Bulldogs goals. tie at 1-1 South) The PC men’s soccer team battled today ( visiting Gardner-Webb to a 1-1 tie starter when Saturday at Martin Stadium.

Damorney Hutchinson handed team h PC a 1-0 lead on a header from for the about 10 yards out following a free 25. T kick in the 60th minute. Diego returni Hernandez and goalkeeper Beatty (9-9 B Murray, who took the free kick, Freshm were credited with assists on the PC Noah person goal.

Gardner-Webb’s Jaylen Orr tied FSU time o the game in the 76th minute.

The Blue Hose were 4-41 overall Sopho and 1-0-1 in the Big South heading paced into a Tuesday night home non-con- time o – ference contest against Wofford.

to participate in the annual Nor th-South All-Star game. For the season, the 6’7 Coleman averaged 18.6 points, 12.4 rebounds, 2.5

A6 The News & RepoRTeR Wednesday, February 1, 2023

SPORTS COLUMN WRITING

SPORTS

Lewisville Decide it brings on the back HOF banquet court

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

BY TRAVIS JENKINS

I

Connie Miller had a big game at both ends of the floor to lead Chester of Union County.

FIRST PLACE Travis Jenkins The News & Reporter

helped the storied Red Devils program stay near the top of Class A basketball during his four years, with the team advancing to the upperstate finals

PHOTOS BY TRAVIS JENKINS

Lady Cycs get first region win; boys fall in overtime

BY TRAVIS JENKINS

TJENKINS@ONLINECHESTER.COM

Chester erased a late deficit Friday night, but so did Union County.

The Cyclones battled back from 16 down, lost their lead on a last-second three-pointer and ultimately fell to the Yellow Jackets in overtime by a final score of 73-67.

Chester struggled offensively throughout the first half and into the third. The Cyclones often got good looks that just wouldn’t fall but also settled for some bad shots at times. Union County began the third on a 12-2 run to open up a commanding 44-28 lead. That’s when Chester star ted to rally. The defense forced turnovers that became easy buckets and five different players had at least one field goal as the Cyclones closed on a 15-5 spurt to get back within six at the start of the fourth.

That run continued into the four th and was mostly powered by Sedorrien Pendergrass. He drained a three-pointer, he scored a fast break bucket of f a steal and he was on the receiving end of a couple of nice passes from Shydem McCullough that set up easy baskets. After scoring four points in the first half, he erupted for 13 in the final frame as Chester took and consistently held a three-point lead in the final minutes and the team defense of Ches-

A Chester defender collides with a Union County ball-handler at midcourt. ter and scoring output of Pendergrass might have been enough to hang on if not for Jarayin Gregor y.

Union County only managed to score 13 points in the four th, but Gregor y accounted for nine of them, including nine of his team’s last 11. The Yellow Jackets had to foul late to conser ve time and put Chester’s Reggie Heath on the line in the process. He drained two free throws to make it a 62-59 game. The Yellow Jackets rushed the ball down the court need-

ing a three to force overtime but couldn’t get an open look. With the clock ticking to zero, Gregor y ended up with the ball on the left wing. With a hand in his face, falling away he launched a long ball that found the bottom of the net at the buzzer. That tied the game and sent the contest to overtime.

Gregor y continued his exploits in the extra frame, opening the scoring with a dunk during which he was fouled. He completed the three-point play to put

Union County ahead and they never trailed again.

Keishawn Gibson added a couple of buckets and when it was Chester having to foul late to conser ve time, Gregor y ended up at the line twice and went a perfect 4-of-4.

Free throws were actually a big part of the outcome.

Chester str uggled from the line most of the night, hitting just 3-of-11 freebies in the first half, including missing the front end of multiple one-and-ones.

SEE REGION/PAGE A8

BASKETBALL ROUNDUP

Red Devils stay perfect in region

BY TRAVIS JENKINS

TJENKINS@ONLINECHESTER.COM

It was a very good week for the Great Falls boys basketball team. A perfect one, in fact.

The Red Devils went 3-0 and last week and remained unbeaten in region play.

They star ted things on Tuesday with a convincing 71-49 region victor y over C.A. Johnson. Dre Coleman had a big night, scoring 22 points. Deuce Fair and Aiden Fair each added 15 points for Great Falls.

On Thursday, Great Falls went on the road for a non-region contest against AA Fair field Central and rolled to a 67-34 win. Coleman had 17, Deuce Fair had 12 points, six rebounds and six assists and Aaden Fair was also in double figures with 11.

On Friday, the Red Devils blew out region foe The Governor’s School for Science and Math (GSSM) 73-25. Great Falls went deep to its bench fairly early against the over-

matched opponent. Deuce Fair and Jalyn Sanders had 16 each, Aaden Fair scored 15, Gavin Hood added 11 and Coleman recor ded a double-double, with 10 points and 14 rebounds.

Great Falls improved to 6-0 in region play going into Tuesday night’s region game at McBee. The Great Falls girls team also had a good week, beating C.A. Johnson 60-47 and GSSM 35-19. The Lady Devils struggled for wins early in the season, but that

came against a rugged slate of AA and AAA squads.

Since getting to region play, the Lady Devils are 4-1 with the only loss coming to McBee. They had a shot to avenge that loss Tuesday night.

The Lewisville girls team defeated C.A. Johnson on Friday night 46-24. The boys routed River walk Academy 59-8 on Monday and lost a close one to C.A. Johnson on Friday 41-39.

They played host to GSSM Tuesday night.

BY TRAVIS JENKINS TJENKINS@ONLINECHESTER.COM

TJENKINS@ONLINECHESTER.COM think most people would agree players and Athletic The that Lewisville teams should decide their Hall Fame not playoffof fates on thehas fields of held a banquet or inducted play.

In the case of Region a class IV-AAA, though, adage isof the in a few yearsthat because taken a bit to literally.

COVID-19 pandemic, but On Friday night, the Chester they’ll soonteam make up for lost girls basketball notched its first region win of the year, time. putting a great second Thetogether school announced on half to take a 44-30 victory. The Monday thattwo the annual teams split their regular sea- banquet is returning son matchups and are nowthis tied sumin the Region standings. mer and IV-AAA will do so with a Four teams from each region big class of honorees. Those make the playoffs and so the two being inducted at the June 10 are now tied for the final playoff spot.

Not all, but most, ceremony will beregions Kip McAlhave a tie-breaker in ister, Rodneyformula McCullough, place that first takes into account Cantrelle which Crane, head-to-head, in theDeshawn case Williams Elder, of Chester and Union Coach County Randy would be aand push. So the 1988 next Neely the state tie-breaker is usually the aggretrack team. The “Once a gate score of the two matchups.

Lion, a Lion” The LadyAlways Yellow Jackets beat award Chester 45-37 earlier in the year, will be presented to Leon so in the two games combined, The and Trina McFadden. the Lady Cyclones lead 81-75. In event willif the betwoheld most regions, endedin the Lewisville High would School gym. the year tied, Chester have the final spotwill and be at Meet andplayoff greet Union County would be the odd 6:00, the dinner at 7:00 and team out. the ceremony to follow.

What I learned Friday, though, is Region IV doesn’t can be Corporate tables do things that way.

Instead, if tickpurchased along with two teams end the year tied, ets actually for theplay event by contactthey one standing either Rusty alone game against eachPemberton other to the tie (I believe for —break rpember ton@chester. every sport aside from footk12.sc.us or Kirk Cannon ball).

—Apparently, kcannon@chester.k12. part of the rationale in that extra game is a High sc.us or an call Lewisville revenue also that ext.

Schoolgenerator, at (803)but789-5131 the tie is broken fair and square 1334.

The school is trying to and is decided by the teams on the court members or field. I get of that,the but 1988 locate Itrack think itteam. is short-sighted on a Any members of couple of levels. that are encouraged to Now,team if two teams are tied for contact Pemberton. first place and a region title and number one playoff seed are on the line, yes, there will be a lot of interest and likely a big crowd. How much interest and Forwill local news, to turnout there be for subscribe a game to decide fourth place though, especially for sports that don’t draw big crowds to start with?

That could actually be a money loser.

An extra game could also put a team at a competitive disadvantage. Do you want your team having to play an extra game, expending all that effort and risking injury? Think about a sport like baseball where starting pitching is so important, but pitch counts are now in place. If you are playing for first place, would you throw your ace knowing you wouldn’t have him for game one of the playoffs? What if he has a bad night or you catch an umpire with a strike zone the size of a pin prick and end up burning more than one arm? You’d almost be better off running your two or three out there, hoping for the best and keeping your best arm ready to go when it really matters.

Going with the combined score or total defensive points allowed in all region games isn’t a perfect solution. One team might be the type to run the score up when they can while the other dips deep into the bench when they have a big lead. In that case you almost end up being penalized for good sportsmanship, but it is probably still better than making teams play one another again. If you’ve already played each other twice and one team outscored the other, the final outcome was still decided on the court or field.

THE NE WS & REPORTER.

“Defensive Player of the Year.” A pair of his teammates also picked up some offseason hardware. Fellow senior Christian “Deuce” Fair was also an all-state

will be played this Saturday at Brookland-Cayce High School. The girls game star ts at 1 p.m. with the boys contest to follow

7-4 mark in 2021, including a playof f victor y. With a young roster that suffered a great deal of injur y attrition in 2022, the Red Devils finished the year at 2-8.

Celebrating Hall of Fame Fans

BY TRAVIS JENKINS

TJENKINS@ONLINECHESTER.COM

W ithout fail, anytime I attend a Lewisville High School sporting event, I see Leon and Trina McFadden sitting in the stands. Also without fail, Leon approaches me, hand extended, and says, “thanks for what you do.”

I certainly appreciate the sentiment. Covering sports is my favorite part of my job and I put ever ything I’ve got into it, but when you get right down to it I am being paid to be there. Nobody pays Leon and Trina to be at ever y Lewisville game.

The money actually flows in the opposite direction and I’m not really exaggerating when I say they are in attendance for almost EVERY game. If I go to football, home or away, they’re there.

Volleyball, basketball, baseball, soccer, softball…look around and you’ll find those familiar faces.

In fact, it goes deeper than that. This past summer, I was at an early Lewisville football practice. It was miserably hot and, truthfully,

practice is not always a riveting event to attend. It has its moments but you’re often watching guys run gassers, individual drills and lots of stopping and starting while coaches give instruction.

“Hey, thanks for coming out here,” a familiar voice said to me.

It was Leon. He was at practice, wanting to get a look at the new coaching staff, new players and new of fensive schemes. I had the best seat in the house, because Leon has an encyclopedic knowledge of pretty much ever ybody on the field.

“You know, his brother is (whoever). Do you remember his daddy? He played on the state championship team in (whenever).”

He’s like Lewisville Google, basically. It isn’t just that he knows the names and lineage, Leon is a very astute judge of talent and technique.

“Watch number (whatever) in coverage over here,” he said.

That sort of figures, since he coached youth sports for

who knows how long. He also holds the distinction of convincing a young fellow who was good in basketball and baseball to give football a try. That young fellow was Sheldon Brown who went on have a ver y successful college and NFL careers.

Even better than knowing what players bring to the table, he knows them all on a personal level. They aren’t just numbers and positions to him. When they came of f the practice field that day, each had a handshake, hug or backslap waiting on them. That’s pretty much what he and Trina do after ever y game they attend, whether the Lions come out on top or not. They understand these are high school students trying their best to represent their school and community and they act accordingly. I bet players appreciate that encouragement as much as newspaper reporters do.

Trust me when I tell you that Trina is ver y astute when it comes to all the sports she watches too, as well as the sports landscape.

If you doubt that, saddle up next to her at a game sometime and bring up competitive balance, realignment or private schools competing in the public school league and get ready to learn something. Unlike Leon, she did not attend Lewisville but she is an honorar y Lion of the highest order. She lovingly adopted them and they happily adopted her right back.

Fans are great, and they certainly are Lewisville fans.

It is something altogether different to be a supporter, though. In attendance, in encouragement, in leadership, in donating, they are two of the top supporters of any program in this state, in my opinion.

That’s why I was so tickled to see a list of honorees at the upcoming Lewisville Athletic Hall of Fame.

This year’s recipients of the “Once a Lion, Always a Lion” award are Leon and Trina McFadden. They are more than deserving of having their school’s Hall of Fame bring them up, shake their hands and tell them, “thanks for all you do.”

Wednesday, October 11, 2023 The News & RepoRTeR A7

Stop playing games

BY TRAVIS JENKINS

TJENKINS@ONLINECHESTER.COM

P

ublic schools in Region IV-AA wanted to get something done, so they did nothing.

For years, there have been lots of conversations, but very little action, around the lack of a level playing field between traditional public schools and their non-traditional counterparts in terms of athletics. Increasingly, private and charter schools are dominating public schools in terms of state titles won across all sports. If they played by exactly the same rules as everybody else, there wouldn’t be an argument to be mounted against them other than by whiners and sore losers.

Excellence that is equitably attained shouldn’t be punished, but that isn’t what we have here. Privates and charters enjoy a bevy of benefits that give them a huge leg up.

Private and charter schools don’t have to observe fixed attendance lines as public schools do, drawing from literally anywhere. If you’re a tiny Class A public school like Great Falls or Whitmire, all you’ve got is the 200 or so kids walking your hallways and that’s it. A child one mile outside of the Great Falls attendance zone can’t go to Great Falls High without first getting district-level permission and then forfeiting a year of athletic eligibility unless their family legitimately moves. That same kid could go to a private or charter school and play right away. In fact, a student zoned to go to Great Falls could play at a charter or private school.

A few years ago, I saw a fairly highly-touted big man playing basketball for one of the state’s smallest schools. The next year, miraculously, he was playing for one of the state’s top charter schools three counties away, which underscores another problem. Small schools not only have to play private and charter schools, they often lose their top talent to them. So they can end up having their former best players competing

against them.

Private and charter schools can also cap their enrollment.

They can essentially decide which classification they wish to participate in and it probably isn’t a coincidence that they’re all in Class A and AA and near the top of both in terms of enrollment. A few years ago, Lewisville High School, which had been in Class A (the state’s smallest classification) for its entire existence, had a small bump in enrollment and ended up going to AA, where they were one of the four smallest schools in the classification and by far the smallest in their region. They didn’t want to go to AA, they badly wanted to stay in Class A, petitioned to do so and had longtime rivals that didn’t want them to go either… and none of that mattered. The South Carolina High School League (the governing body of prep sports in the state) didn’t care what they wanted and sent them up to AA anyway. By law, public schools must accept any student that lives in their attendance zone, where private and charter schools can decide, “yeah, we’re full” and cut off enrollment.

The opportunity to recruit also presents itself to charter and private schools. Now, I’m not saying they do (though I was recently shown evidence of such by one school), I’m not saying some public schools don’t, but the point is that privates and charters CAN. Add that to capping enrollment, no fixed attendance lines and having some ability to select which students will be attending (public schools can’t just “bring in” a quarterback or point guard when they need one) and it is easy to see why public school coaches and administrators have a problem with the current system.

All that, by the way, doesn’t even consider the inherent advantages those schools have that can’t be legislated out of existence. All of the private and charter schools reside in Class A and AA, classifications populated by the smallest, poorest schools

in the state, with most being in very rural locales. They don’t have a lot of resources and often have to rely on either volunteer coaches or ones that don’t actually teach on campus. In a football playoff game a few years ago, I counted five former successful head coaches on the staff of a private school team. The public school team they were playing had one coach that sold insurance for a living, one that was a police officer and a total of just two on-campus coaches. Before it was closed due to consolidation last year, tiny Timmonsville High had as its HEAD football coach the town’s police chief. That’s considerably different than at private and charter schools, where in many cases, coaches only coach. Many privates and charters are going to no class-Fridays, half-day schedules and online classes.

That leaves an awful lot of time for general athletic training and practice, something public schools don’t offer.

Last school year, public schools in Class A only won state in two of 13 sports (in a few instances, not enough Class A schools participate in a sport to have their own playoff, so they compete up in AA). The numbers aren’t much better in AA and it’s been that way for a while (see related story).

It should also be noted the scores in matchups between public schools and privates and charters are rarely close or competitive. None of that is a knock on private and charter schools and doesn’t represent me calling them “cheaters.” It’s an indictment of the system, which operates with two sets of rules and gives one group preferential treatment.

The South Carolina High School League (SCHSL) at least went through the motions of trying to implement a student enrollment multiplier plan on privates and charters and attempted to make them play in the classification of the public school whose attendance zone they physically sit in. In both instances, privates and

charters either leaned on the legislative committee and legislators or lawyered up and didn’t get the decision they got the proposals scuttled. wanted. So, they announced The state legislature passed a they’d take additional steps to budget proviso that basically get satisfaction on the matter, said the SCHSL couldn’t treat which I read as “we’re Pitcher Sarah Owens is going privates and charters any to lawyer up again.” Lots returning differently than their publicone of of seven people are talking about starters onstudent Lewisville’s school counterparts, with the Gray’s athletes being threat that the SCHSL couldteam be “robbed of opportunities,” this year. disbanded and prep athletics which is funny, because I don’t placed under the control of remember hand-wringing FILE PHOTO the Department of Education. and heart-bleeding from Of course, they ARE treated those folks about the loss of differently to their benefit in opportunity of small public some ways, but that’s somehow schools to win state titles. different and unworthy of a Gray is filling the schedule sternly-worded proviso.. In fact, openings, by the way, by the rhetoric got so hot over the going to Washington D.C., idea of anyone doing anything Florida and other locales to help out small schools, to play prominent, national that one state senator made powers, which sounds like it a Constitutional argument. quite an opportunity to me…

Since many private schools and not one public Class A or are religiously affiliated, he AA schools could execute or argued that “treating them afford. differently” would somehow And now, finally, the state represent a violation of the legislature is at least giving lip First Amendment. That’s service to potential fixes. I’m the lengths folks go to in an sure some of them will take the attempt to keep things just as stance that Fairfield Central, they are. What you hear in Mid-Carolina, Eau Claire defense of small schools that and others in Region IV-AA just want to be treated fairly should accept a crappy system isn’t full-throated shouting from that handicaps their ability to the floor of the state legislature, win and take their ill-gotten it’s more of a chirp, like the one beatings with a smile. There crickets make. is also a bit of momentum, In fact, a judge’s opinion though, to have private and solidified those advantages, charter schools compete in essentially saying that to be their own playoff bracket or treated like everyone else, to have the budget proviso privates and charters have altered, such that the SCHSL, to be treated differently than which has asked the state everyone else, particularly legislature for assistance, could as it applies to lack of fixed use a multiplier or some other attendance lines. means to make things more This brings us back to fair for everybody. those public schools in Region The problem has existed for IV-AA, ones that have to decades and has only gotten compete with charter athletic worse as time has gone on and powerhouse Gray Collegiate. more non-traditional schools With the state legislature, join the league, with no one the SCHSL, the courts and taking any corrective action. It larger schools unwilling to shouldn’t come to the point of help erase the disadvantages schools forfeiting and refusing they face, they decided to to play, but their willingness to use the last weapon at their do that was bold and MIGHT disposal…participation. They be the impetus for long-needed just aren’t going to play Gray change. Public schools in in any sport. Gray sought, Region IV-AA stopped playing essentially, to have the SCHSL games…maybe our state punish those schools for legislature will finally do the that decision, going to the same thing and fix what is executive committee, then clearly broken.

LADY LIONS

Private and charter school have history of dominance

The variety of topics shoved this entry to first in a tight race. Hall of Fame fans was well done, but points made in T “Stop playing games” were valid and likely generated feedback. Enjoyed the writing style.

BY TRAVIS JENKINS

TJENKINS@ONLINECHESTER.COM

he upper hand that private and charter schools have over their public counterparts has gotten a lot of attention recently, but the trend has been ongoing for years across all sports.

Private and charter schools are concentrated in Class A and AA, which are populated by the state’s smallest schools in terms of enrollment. Despite representing a small

period when the three powerhouse private schools in Greenville County (Christ Church, Southside Christian and St. Joe’s) were moved up to AA. In girls basketball in AA, privates and charters have claimed the last two state titles.

Competitive cheer did not offer a Class A or AA field for six years, but a combined A/AA title was awarded last year and went to a charter school.

In boys cross country, the top three finishers

number is boosted by a brief period when the three Greenville County powerhouse private schools were moved up to AA. In AA, the number is six straight.

Girls golf is one of the few sports where public schools have more than held their own.

Soccer has perhaps the most lopsided imbalance of any sport.

In Class A, there have been 23 state titles award in boys soccer and public schools have won only one of

for the spot represent the last real stronghold for public schools. No private or charter school has ever won the Class A softball title.

Swimming had a combined A/AA/AAA bracket and privates and charters have won seven straight crowns in boys swimming and eight straight in girls swimming.

In boys track and field, the current run for private and charter schools is four straight in Class A and

last year. In the state finals, they beat public school Scotts Branch by 22 points. Scott’s Branch had not only not lost to another Class A school during the season, they only had one game against a fellow Class A team decided by single digits and that came in the lowerstate championship game.

Christ Church defeated Great Falls in the upperstate title game by 28 and held the Red Devils to one basket in the second half. Great

23-point win was in the state finals over public school Johnsonville, which likewise, was undefeated against Class A opponents coming in.

St. Joe’s won the volleyball title last year by beating every public school Class A opponent in straight sets.

Oceanside Collegiate (a charter school) did not lose a set to a public AA school all year last season in making its run to the state title.

Gray Collegiate won the AA boys basketball

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Scott Chancey Morning News

David Lauderdale The Island Packet

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FIRST PLACE Gene Sapakoff The Post and Courier Excellent topics. Hard-hitting writing by a true pro.

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Andrew Sprague Charleston Regional Business Journal

Candace Rathbone The Baptist Courier

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WHEN GOD GIVES YOU

UNCOMFORTABLE GRACE Understanding God’s Ways With Us

One of the most significant construction and engineering projects in Charleston will never be seen by most residents, but city officials hope everyone will see the results. Page 12 (Photo/City of Charleston)

NOVEMBER 2023 North Charleston’s Firefly Distillery has expanded availability of its most premium spirit, Bend & Steal American Whiskey. Page 9.

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Missionary Couple Looks Back on Lessons Learned Uncomfortable Grace on Stormy Seas

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FIRST PLACE Andrew Sprague SCBIZ Magazine

South Carolina’s contributions with the products and services of suppliers and customers.

Power List: Logistics industry leaders County spotlight: Charleston is buzzing A supplement to Charleston Regional Business Journal, Columbia Regional Business Report and GSA Business Report

Striking cover! Great use of photo illustration to draw readers into magazine. Standout color selections.

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Jonathan Vickery The People-Sentinel

Cary Howard Lexington County Chronicle

Three local teams continue playoff journies

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Serving Barnwell County and its neighbors since 1852 WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023

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Mayor Rivera loses re-election to Councilman Still Jonathan Vickery Publisher jvickery@thepeoplesentinel.com

V

oters in the City of Barnwell elected a new mayor.

Mayor Marcus Rivera, who has been in office since 2019, was defeated in his re-election bid by District 1 city councilman Ron Still by 95 votes. Still received 608 votes while Rivera received 513.

“I feel honored to serve you as your mayor for the next four years,” said Still. “I assure the citizens of Barnwell and all elected officials of city council that I am ready and I am willing to work with each of you to move the City of Barnwell forward for all citizens.”

Rivera won the election day polls by 14 votes but lost early voting by 98 votes and absentee

by 11. Though he came up a little short, “it wasn’t due to a lack of effort,” said Rivera, who congratulates Councilman Still on his victory.

“From this day forward, and I’ve done this in the past, I’ll continue to work in this community and I’ll work with him (Still) to make sure we better this community,” said Rivera.

Both men thanked God, their families, their campaign teams, and the voters for their support.

Still also thanked Rivera for how he ran his campaign and the words of wisdom he shared after the results came in.

Of the 2,727 registered voters in the City of Barnwell, 1,124 actually cast ballots. That equals a 41.2 percent voter turnout.

“We’ve got to do a better job of See MAYOR, 3A

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of members of the Allendale County community gathered in the Allendale-Fairfax High School gymnasium to hear from local veterans like Terrance Thomas.

Thomas shared the story of James, a serviceman Thomas knew who saved the life of a fellow soldier at great cost to himself.

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John Preston (left), his wife, and their friends are walking 22 miles each day from the South Carolina coast to Cincinnati to bring attention to veteran suicide.

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“ J a m e s wa s d e p l o ye d f a r overseas, far from the home, family and life he knew,” Thomas said. “He faced challenges that tested his courage and resilience and one day under a hostile sky his unit was ambushed. In the chaos, James shielded a fellow soldier, saving his life, but getting severely injured in the process.”

Although healthcare for veterans has improved in recent years, service-related conditions are documented in 58 percent of rural veterans. Healthcare for veterans has infamously b e e n i n s u f f i c i e n t , h o we ve r , recent changes have increased healthcare benefits. The PACT Act also includes benefits for veterans exposed to toxic burn pits that the U.S. military created during the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) estimates that over a 30-year period, approximately f o u r m i l l i o n ve t e r a n s we r e exposed to toxic burn pits.

During the Vietnam War, 2.6 million veterans were exposed to Agent Orange, and 300,000 U.S. veterans and over 400,000 Vietnamese people died from Agent Orange between 1962-71.

Several of these veterans are from Allendale and have been

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Disclaimer: This article discusses sensitive topics like suicide.

experience the horrors of war.

Additionally, veterans face major barriers to employment, housing and healthcare, an issue that is exacerbated in rural areas like Allendale, where 444 veterans reside, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

On Veterans Day, hundreds

No. 9

Lexington County’s rank among South Carolina counties for the strength of their small business presence in 2022, according to a recent study from SmartAsset.

The study used IRS data to calculate how much small business income is generated in each county, as well as how many small businesses are operating in each county. Places which scored the best in these metrics were the places that ranked highest in the study. 7.56% of 2022 business income in Lexington County came from small businesses, compared to 15.45% in Charleston County (which ranked No. 1 in the state for the strength of small busienss presence) and 8.41% in the state overall.

Jonathan Vickery / Publisher

Mayor Marcus Rivera (left) congratulates Councilman Ron Still on winning election as the City of Barnwell's next mayor on Nov. 7.

Elijah de Castro Report for America elijah@thepeoplesentinel.com

we can help each other, that we can share this weight together.”

Across the United States, veterans have significantly higher rates of suicide than the national average. The issue is widely attributed to post-traumatic stress disorder, which is widespread among veterans and civilians who

BY THE NUMBERS

Data provided by SmartAsset

Amid Veterans Day, rural vets face barriers to care his is a story of war, grief, and the plight of veterans in the United States.

Connecting them all is Ohio combat veteran John Preston, his wife Cory, and his friends Izzak Chandler and Gregory Coffelt.

The group is walking 22 miles every day for the 22 veterans in the United States who die by suicide every day (recent statistics from the Department of Veterans Affairs estimate 16.8 per day). Their journey will finish in Preston’s hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio, having begun near the resting place of Preston’s brother on Hunting Island, South Carolina. However for Preston, his journey began long ago when his brother, a veteran, died by suicide in 2016.

“Losing my brother turned a switch that I didn't know existed inside of me,” Preston said. “We are out here trying to tell the world [that] it's okay to ask for help. It's okay to need help. We're gonna walk 700 miles to show the world that we can be okay, that

Presidential candidates address SC Republicans at state convention in Lexington A4

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U.S. Army veteran Natasha Sept is hugged by her students at Macedonia Elementary-Middle School in Blackville during the Veterans Day ceremony on Nov. 10.

Sept served her country for 8 years.

More photos on pages 10-11A.

Developer details plans for 2-acre residential project behind Lexington's Flight Deck A3

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THURSDAY, MAY 25, 2023 | Vol. 152, 27th Edition | 2 Sections, 20 pages

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

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VOLUME 147, NO. 30

PAY VS. CRIME:

CHARTING POLICE SALARIES, CRIME RATES IN LEXINGTON COUNTY MUNICIPALITIES

BY KAILEE KOKES kailee@lexingtonchronicle.com

Police pay and crime rates are often topics of conversation, and they have been so often so far this year in Lexington County.

Multiple local law enforcement agencies have seen the powers that be increase starting pay for officers. One of them is the Town of Irmo, which took the step as its citizens and government continue to seek solutions to curtail crime crossing the county line from the Harbison Gardens apartment complex in Columbia.

To get a better lay

of the land when it comes to crime rates and police pay in Lexington County, the Chronicle reached out to all law enforcement agencies to find out how much they pay, when they last increased the amount, how they’re doing when it comes to retaining officers, and how the crime rates in their jurisdictions have changed in the past few years (pulling from the information provided in

annual crime reports provided by the state Law Enforcement Division).

Overall, the rate of index crimes – murder, aggravated assault, arson, breaking and entering, robbery, larceny,

sexual battery, and motor vehicle theft – in the county decreased by 2.07% between 2017 and 2021. During the same time period, the county’s population increased by 1.2%, going from 290,511 to 293, 991.

Like Lexington County, the state has continued to grow, with its population increasing 3.25% from 5,027,102 in 2017 to 5,190,705 in 2021. Despite the increase in population, the state’s total index crimes de-

creased by 11.94% during that time.

Indeed and Zip Recruiter list the average pay for police officers in the state as $44,404 and $40,952, respectively, with Indeed noting that pay in the state is 26% below the national average.

Zip Recruiter rates the state No. 44 for police officer salaries. One municipality in the county, the City of Cayce, ranks in the Top 10 in the state for police pay according to the site, coming in at No. 4.

The Chronicle reached out to the Town of Springdale and did not receive any of the requested information regarding its police department. The City of West Columbia said it couldn’t provide all of the information requested.

SEE SALARIES, PAGE A5

Lexington County likely set for property tax increase

BY JORDAN LAWRENCE jordan@lexingtonchronicle.com Lexington County is likely set for a property tax increase.

As this week’s Chronicle went to press on May 23, County Council was set to hold the second and final reading on its budget for the 2023-24 fiscal year.

Lynn Sturkie, the county administrator, walked council and those in attendance at a May 16 public hearing through the tax millage increase and the impact it would make on local property owners.

“The mills being requested

is 4.922,” he said, explaining that the impact will vary depending on the type of property, with owner-occupied legal residences being assessed at 4% and all other residential and commercial property being assessed at 6%.

The requested millage equates to a property tax rate of about 5%.

“What that equates to is on a 4% home, a $100,000 value, it would be $19.69,” Sturkie said of the increase residents would see in their payments.

“On a $100,000 home, at a 6% value, [it] would be a $29.53 im-

pact to the citizen.”

Sturkie emphasized that staff aren't looking for any more than they need in increasing the millage rate.

“We're only requesting the mills that's needed to balance the budget to make this work,” he said.

The recommended increase is part of a budget that would increase to $182.53 million (up from $166.77 million in 202223), including $62.19 million for law enforcement (up from $55.89 million) and $31.24 million for fire services (up from $25.82 million).

The county has not yet responded to the Chronicle’s questions requesting more detail about why the property tax increase was necessary, and no council member responded to the paper’s requests for comment ahead of the scheduled May 23 vote.

Council gave unanimous first reading approval to the proposed budget April 25. At the May 16 public hearing, no one took the opportunity to speak in support or opposition of the proposed budget.

Al Dozier contributed reporting to this article.

Lexington lake resort, conference center draws concern from public, council members Center, Riverbanks Zoo seek millions in state funding

BY KAILEE KOKES kailee@lexingtonchronicle.com A new development and a prominent tourist attraction hope to receive funding from the state.

In unveiling a new $733 million, 93.53-acre destination resort planned for a spot along North Lake Drive just south of the Lake Murray Dam, the Town of Lexington detailed plans for a public-private partnership to bring a Regional Conference Center to the new development. Set to be built in public-private partnership, it would see the town kicking in $30 million for the conference center’s construction.

Now, the town hopes to have $10 million of that defrayed by the state.

The other entity hoping for the state to kick in with its own development efforts is the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, which hopes to receive $3 million for its ongoing plan to expand and improve.

The Lexington development, known as Smallwood Cove, sits off Beekeeper Court near Jake’s Landing and is planned to bring a marina, rental spaces, hotels, restaurants and living spaces ranging from single-family homes to condos.

According to Laurin Barnes, the town’s communications

manager, it has already received $6 million from the state to build the center, adding that this amount is more than enough to get the process started.

Barnes said the town will look for other funding sources if the $10 million is not allocated to the town and that a request at the state level for more will be made the following year.

The process to approve Smallwood Cove is ongoing, and council members and residents express concern over this development, with most concerns having to do with traffic and over-development.

At its May 17 meeting, the town's Planning Commission moved items relating to the development to a later date.

Barnes shared that it is unclear when the item will be placed on the agenda again, explaining it can’t be brought back to council for approval until the commission recommends it.

Gavin Smith, who was elected to council this month, told the Chronicle he sees the community having three main concerns with Smallwood Cove: traffic, parking and over-development.

SEE CONFERENCE, PAGE A3

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SERVING OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1925

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2023

VOL. 97, NO. 37 • ONE DOLLAR

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Sisters give old things new life

BY TONYA RODGERS

FIRST PLACE Mary Frances Hendrix The Twin-City News

Garage Gals – sisters Nancy Jo Clark and Teresa Chesser – love what they do and share the laughs with every person who comes to their new store in Batesburg-Leesville. Housed in the former Faith-Full Café at 101 Main St. in the Leesville Business District, this pair of ladies offers the finest in used furniture and home décor for sale to customers.

For several years, the sisters operated out of Chesser’s garage in Gilbert, going to yard sales, estate auctions and anywhere they could find a deal on furniture and home items.

Chesser’s partner, Dennis Peele, is the picker/seller who purchases most of the items for the sisters to either refurbish or sell as is.

Garage Gals is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday-Saturday while both ladies continue to work full-time jobs.

Chesser works at Southern Shores Dental of Columbia while Clark is an ER nurse at Saluda Pointe Urgent Care in Columbia.

Even with full-time jobs and caring for children and grandchildren, these two are taking their love of decorating furniture and making it into a business.

“We like to buy furniture and home décor items, fix them our way, and sell the See GARAGE, Page 2

Photo by Tonya Rodgers Sisters Nancy Jo Clark and Teresa Chesser opened Garage Gals at 101 Main St. in Leesville.

grand

Joe and Sylvia Rinehart with grands Kylee McGlohorn, Mason Collins and Reagan Collins

a

Kylee McGlohorn is the granddaughter of Sylvia and Joe Rinehart

Submitted photos Tim and Judy Enlow with grandchildren Joel, Lylar, and Liam

celebration

National Grandparents Day presents picture of family At left, Charles and Judy Nichols recently had this family portrait made with their grandchildren (front row, from left) Emma Crouch, Cal Crouch, Harper Nichols, (back row) Layne Crouch, Layla Nichols, Abby Nichols, Mattie Nichols and Taylor Nichols.

BY TONYA RODGERS National Grandparents Day was Sunday, Sept. 10. The special day was designated as the first Sunday after Labor Day and signed into law by President Jimmy Carter in 1978.

Grandparents take on many different roles today. Many live close to their grown children and grandchildren and take an active role in their everyday lives. Some even have grandchildren living in their home and take on the role of parents as opposed to grandparents.

Other grandparents must travel hours or days to visit their grandchildren in a different state or country. Whatever the case, many grandparents will tell you their grandchildren are the light of their lives.

Maria Satcher-Black just became a grandmother of twins, born last week.

“I am beyond excited to spoil the twins Carleigh and Cameron!” she said. Her daughter lives in the Batesburg-Leesville area about 15 minutes away from her so Black is ready to take on a very active role in helping as she is needed.

Sylvia Rinehart, who lives in the Traffic Circle community, said it’s “difficult to put into words how it feels to be a grandparent.” She and her husband have three grandchildren.

“Grandchildren give me joy, a purpose and hope. We share memories, traditions, faith and values that, hopefully will strengthen their character.

They know we love them unconditionally. I have great pride in each one, individually,” Rinehart said.

Evie and Coy Johnson of Amick’s Shoe Shop have one grandson, Logan, who they say is the light of their world.

“Being a grandmama is one of the greatest joys in my life. It’s a constant reminder of life’s greatest treasures,” Mrs. Johnson said. “Hearing him say he loves me is one of the best feelings in the world.”

Below right, Sharon Meetze’s father, Larry Shealy, just celebrated his 84th birthday. He’s pictured here with grandsons Christian and Cameron Meetze.

An older favorite photo of grandparents Coy and Evie Johnson shows grandson Logan Padgett as a youngster. Mrs. Johnson says Logan is 20 now.

“Seeing the world through your grandchild’s eyes can make me feel young again,” Mrs. Johnson said.

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Hall of Fame Three Batesburg-Leesville High School sports standouts will be inducted into the Hall of Fame on Sept. 22. Find out who they are. Page 4 Sports: Panthers tennis is undeated in region play. Page 4

Around Town .....................2 Classifieds ...........................5 Columns ..............................3 Neighborhood Notebook ....2 Puzzles ................................6 Sports ..................................4

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Charles Swenson Coastal Observer COASTAL OBSERVER

Vol. XLII No. 4

Pawleys Island, South Carolina ~ July 6, 2023

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TRADITIONS | Fourth of July

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Freedom is sweet at the island’s parade. Page 4

Boat parade turns 40, and it’s still a blast. Page 3

Red, white and hula come together in neighborhood parade. Page 5

Charles Swenson/Coastal Observer

Laser lights started the celebration over the weekend at a two-day Wave That Flag event at Retreat Park that included games, music and vendors.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Traditions: Annual library sale has buyers afloat in a sea of books.

Second Front

Highway 17: County will fund another cleanup of overgrown Pawleys medians.

Page 2

Obituaries .................................. 2 Opinion ......................................6 Crime.......................................... 7 Crossword ................................ 10 Classifieds .................................11 Sports ....................................... 14 Online coastalobserver.com

Arts: Summer music festival fills local stages.

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Icon of the community dies at 83 James Moss of Blacksburg, longtime chairman of the Cherokee County Development Board and founder of Moss Insurance Group, died Friday, July 28 He was inducted into the Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame in 2017 and the Blacksburg Athletic Hall of Fame 2012. One of his major achievements was serving 43 years on the Cherokee County Development board with 40 of those years as chairman. He served on the board of directors for the following organizations: Chamber of Commerce, American Community Bank, First Union Bank, Palmetto

MOSS

Bank, Red Cross, and Spartanburg Community College.

A celebration of life service was held on Sunday, July 30, 2023, at Hopewell Baptist Church. The family will receive friends from 2:00 4:00 followed by the service at 4:00 with life-long friend, Rev Lewis Batchelor officiating along with Rev Landon Moss.

The family kindly requests donations be made to The Moss Scholarship Fund, a cause extremely close to James’s heart, continuing his legacy of compassion and benevolence.

The complete obituary is on Page 3.

Inside

Today

A newspaper in all that the word implies, devoted to the best interests of the people of Cherokee County. www.gaffneyledger.com 75 CENTS

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MONDAY, JULY 31, 2023

DEPLORABLE Wrongful death lawsuit claiming negligence filed against state agencies, doctor

FIRST PLACE Cody Sossamon The Gaffney Ledger

By ABBIE SOSSAMON Ledger News Editor abbie@gaffneyledger.com

An investigation into the Baynard’s home on Camp Ferry Road in Gaffney that revealed deplorable conditions in which investigators had to wear Tyvek suits and respirators to process the home. Another photo is on Page 8 and others can be seen at www.gaffneyledger.com.

(Photos from lawsuit document)

A wrongful death suit has been filed by the estate of a 14-year-old handicapped girl who died of child neglect in April of 2022.

Rebekah Melton and Jessica Melton, biological aunts and personal representatives of the estate of Heather Leigh-Anne Baynard, filed the lawsuit July 10 naming several state agencies, healthcare providers and a doctor as defendants who “could and should have taken action to prevent Heather’s abuse and neglect.”

On April 11, 2022, David and Bobbie Jo Baynard took their daughter to Spartanburg Regional Hospital where she arrived unresponsive and was later pronounced dead.

Cherokee County Coroner Dennis Fowler ruled her death a homicide caused by acute and chronic medical neglect, calling it the worst case of child neglect he had seen in his career.

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office then launched an investigation into the Baynard’s home on Camp Ferry Road in Gaffney that revealed deplorable conditions in which investigators had to wear Tyvek suits and respirators to process the home. The home was infested with feces, urine, maggots, trash, and more than 40 animals were removed from the property.

The parents, as well as Heather’s brother, Edward, have all been charged with murder.

Named as defendants in the lawsuit are the South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS); Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS); Department of Disabilities and Special Needs (DSN); The Charles Lea Center, Inc.; Axcess Healthcare Services, LLC; and Dr. Marcia L. Parra. The lawsuit claims the defendants failed to exercise the necessary care required by law and therefore are responsible for Heather’s death.

Heather was born prematurely at 28 weeks gestation and was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and epilepsy at birth. She was later diagnosed with pyruvate dehydrogenase complex deficiency, chronic lung disease and hydrocephaly. A cognitive evaluation when Heather was 12 years old determined she had the developmental age of a 3-month-old, the lawsuit states. Her disabilities required significant medical care, resulting in regular doctor visits and 24/7 assistance.

According to the lawsuit, Heather was removed from l See DEPLORABLE, Page 8

IT’S OFFICIAL: BIC closing its Cherokee County plant

By LARRY HILLIARD Ledger Staff Writer larry@gaffneyledger.com For local economic development officials and Bic plant employees, the handwriting has been on the wall.

After weeks of rumors, Bic made it official on Friday with the announced closing of its MeadowCreek Industrial Park plant.

About 60 workers will be out of a job when the plant closes its doors some time in the third quarter of 2024.

The plant began its operations here in 1992.

County Development Board Executive Director Ken Moon said he was told by Bic officials its Gaffney pen

manufacturing facility – one of the company’s smaller plants – was no longer cost effective to operate.

Moon said the company plans to split its Gaffney operations between plants in France and Mexico.

“We hate to see this happen but we will help the workers any way we can,” Moon said.

PRACTICE BEGINS

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Indians get off to a hot start for fall practice.

OBITUARIES

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FRANKLIN, James, 70, Gaffney HOLMES, Louis, 75, Gaffney LINDER, Joshua, 47, Gaffney MOSS, James, Blacksburg SPROUSE, Evelyn, 85, Gaffney

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“All reasonable alternatives were carefully considered prior to making this strategic business decision,” a statement from the company read. “This decision was not made lightly and is not reflective of the performance, skill, or commitment of the Gaffney workforce. Although a smaller facility, operations will transition with a phased approach through the third quarter of 2024.”

The company said employees will be provided with as much advance notice as possible and will be given a customized benefits package as well as access to assistance programs and outplacement services.

Moon said he hopes to begin marketing the 100,000 square foot building about six months before its closing.

Mission Statement To connect individuals and organizations in Cherokee County to develop a positive culture of learning and good health for personal success and civic prosperity.

THE GAFFNEY LEDGER — SERVING CHEROKEE COUNTY SINCE 1894 / VOLUME 130 NO. 71

Good, clean design highlighting the major story and playing up a powerful image.

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Airshow returns to MCAS Beaufort:

What you need to know

By Delayna Earley The Island News Are you a fan of airplanes?

Looking for a fun family event for the weekend?

Well, you are in luck. The Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort Airshow is back.

The show, which will be held on Saturday and Sunday, April 22 and 23, at MCAS Beaufort, is free for the public to attend, and tickets are not required.

However, there are special seating

and VIP tickets available for purchase AIRSHOW AFTERPARTY in advance if you want to be closer to Make sure to check out the Airshow the action.

Afterparty on Saturday, April 22, The event will feature a demonstrafrom 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. in Port tion by the U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels.

Royal. The party, which will be held at the corner of Paris Avenue and 8th You may see, and hear, the Blue Street, will feature the Parris Island Angels practicing for the show later Marine Corps band, food trucks, beer in the week. wagon and a tap truck.

The airshow will also include performances and demonstrations by Clemens Kuhlig with Chefpitts Air Shows, Kyle Franklin with Franklin’s Flying Extreme Flight, an F-35B, Gary Rower Circus, Chris Thomas, Patty Wagwith Rower Air Shows, Kyle Fowler, staff, Rob Holland, the MCAS Marine

Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF), the SOCOM Para-Commandos and Precision Exotics.

Kuhlig will be flying the Pitts Special, “an iconic airplane that lends itself well to beautiful rolling, curving lines, snap rolls and excellent outside capability,” accord-

SEE SHOW PAGE A6

LOWCOUNTRY LOWDOWN

LOLITA HUCKABY

HRB says ‘no’ to downtown townhouses, ‘yes’ to rooftop bar

Developer Elvio Tropeano, with beard and dark shirt, looks on as the Community Services and Land Use Committee takes up revisions to the St. Helena Island Cultural Protection Overlay during a Monday, April 10, 2023, meeting in Beaufort. The committee voted to recommend adoption of the language by a vote of 10-1 and council approved the first reading by the same vote. Tony Kukulich/The Post And Courier

T

AUDUBON SOUTH CAROLINA AND ITS NEW DIRECTOR SEE OPPORTUNITY

BEAUFORT he front page of last week’s edition of The Island News told a story of the Lowcountry almost without reading.

In case you missed it, there was the lead story about St. Helena Island supporters “claiming an early win” in their fight to keep a gated, golf-course resort off Pine Island. There was a lengthy report

by Tony Kukulich of The Post and Courier about the ongoing fight south of the Broad River to “keep Chelsea rural” while facing the prospect of at least 4,800 new homes on the Jasper County side of S.C. 170.

There was the Lowcountry Lowdown once again, spouting doom and gloom, this time about a County Council member’s reminder that Hilton Head Island is the financial golden goose of the county and we might as well accept the development that’s

This isn’t settled yet Beaufort County votes to prohibit golf courses on St. Helena, but battle isn’t over.

By Tony Kukulich tkukulich@postandcourier.com BEAUFORT — Officials recently WANT MORE? took a step toward strengthening the From Beaufort to Bluffton and Hilton zoning ordinance protecting GulHead, The Post and Courier covers news impacting your community. lah-Geechee culture and moderating Subscribe for more local coverage development on St. Helena Island, at postandcourier.com/IslandNews. but the intensity of County Council debate prior to the vote suggests the issue is not settled. can be adopted.

According to County AdministraThe changes add commentary to tor Eric Greenway, two additional the overlay’s purpose statement, addreadings and a public hearing are re- ing information about the island’s quired before the revised St. Helena history, Gullah-Geechee culture, and Island Cultural Protection Overlay the challenges faced from increasing

SEE LOWDOWN PAGE A5

IN THE GREENVILLE AREA | P. 8 n photo by ANTHONY Q. MARTIN

development pressure.

The prohibitions against gated communities, resorts and golf courses remain, though the definitions of gated communities and golf courses have been updated. The revised language also eliminates a previous exception that allowed golf courses with fewer than nine holes.

Originally adopted in 1999, the overlay’s significance was highlighted late last year when developer Elvio Tropeano floated a plan to build an ex-

SEE BATTLE PAGE A4

ARTS

VOICES

SPORTS

INSIDE

Beaufort Art Association’s Spring Art Show winners announced.

Carolyn Jebaily: Protection of Gullah-Geechee culture, ACE Basin crucial for St. Helena’s future.

78-year-old couple is top finisher older then 70 years old in the Radiance Run 5k.

PAGE A10

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Lowcountry Life A2 News A2–6 Business A6 Faith A7 Health A8–9 Arts A10

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PICK ME UP AND READ ME! That’s how I immediately interpreted this layout and design of the front page. Through the creative layout of the photographs, to the catchy title, this layout screamed “you better read me”! Grabbing the attention of readers on a topic they may be overlooked by some, this is a clever way to grab their attention.

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SC Senate OKs new ban on abortion

Liquor before beer

By JAMES POLLARD Associated Press/Report for America

COLUMBIA — The South Carolina Senate passed an abortion ban on Thursday in the Republican-led chamber’s latest quest to craft a law that passes constitutional muster, but differences with a stricter proposal from the House could derail the effort once again.

Republicans have faced several setbacks in their efforts to further restrict abortion since the U.S. Supreme Court overSHANE turned federal protecMASSEY tions this summer, allowing the conservative state’s previous ban to take effect.

First, a special session spanning a dozen meetings throughout the summer and fall resulted in no new ban when neither chamber budged from their respective proposals. Then, just days before lawmakers convened this January, the state’s highest court narrowly struck down a 2021 law banning abortion after cardiac activity is detected around six weeks of pregnancy.

With Thursday’s 28-12 vote, Senate Republicans insist they have found their solution in a ban on abortions after cardiac activity is detected around six weeks of pregnancy. Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey emphasized that several clarifications of the bill’s language and repeals of conflicting laws will satisfy a majority on the South Carolina Supreme Court.

The Senate measure includes exceptions for rape, incest, fatal fetal anomaly and the patient’s life and health up to 12 weeks.

Meanwhile, a full ban from conception has again advanced to the House floor in a development that threatens to prevent another abortion restriction from becoming law in South Carolina.

The vote indicates that Senate Republicans’ position has not changed since this fall. The overall body appears uninterested in pursuing any alternative restrictions — lesser or greater. Republican Sen. Sandy Senn’s amendment to instead bar abortions after 12 weeks of pregnancy failed to pass. Sen. Richard Cash, one of the Legislature’s most vocal abortion opponents, withdrew his amendment that would have matched the House proposal.

Senators moved quickly to advance the long-sought Republican priority. Republican leadership bypassed the traditional committee process to hold a vote this week

Study: Drinkers moved more by spirits than the brews Associated Press

P

LOUISVILLE, Ky. roducers of spirits have new bragging rights in the age-old whiskey vs. beer barroom debate.

New figures show that spirits surpassed beer for U.S. market-share supremacy, based on supplier revenues, a spirit industry

group announced Thursday.

The rise to the top for spirit-makers was fueled in part by the resurgent cocktail culture — including the growing popularity of ready-to-drink concoctions — as well as strong growth in the tequila and American whiskey segments, the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States said.

In 2022, spirits gained market share for the 13th straight year in the fiercely

competitive U.S. beverage alcohol market, as its supplier sales reached 42.1%, the council said.

After years of steady growth, it marked the first time that spirit supplier revenues have surpassed beer — but just barely, the spirit industry group said. Beer holds a 41.9% market share, it said.

See LIQUOR, page 4A ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTOS

A mixed drink named “Best Cup of Coffee in a Manhattan,” which contains whiskey distilled on premises, is seen on the cocktail lounge at Baltimore Spirits Co. in Baltimore.

A bartender pours a beer Thursday at McMenamin’s Tavern in Philadelphia.

See ABORTION, page 4A

Attorney: I trusted Alex Murdaugh despite odd fee payments

By JEFFREY COLLINS Associated Press A lawyer testifying in Alex Murdaugh’s double murder trial in South Carolina said he trusted Murdaugh even though the disgraced lawyer suggested an unusual way to split fees from a case the two had worked on together.

Attorney Chris Wilson said he had no reason to be suspicious when Murdaugh asked to have the $792,000 fee deposited directly into his account,

rather than paying it directly to the Murdaugh family law firm.

At the time, Murdaugh said his intention was to protect money because his son, Paul, was involved in a wrongful death lawsuit — even though the direct payment was a violation of the firm’s rules.

“I’d known him for 30-plus years. I didn’t have any reason not to trust him,” Wilson told the jury.

Murdaugh, 54, faces 30 years to life in prison if convicted of murdering his wife, 52-year-old

Maggie, and their 22-year-old son Paul. Prosecutors are arguing that Murdaugh killed them to get sympathy and buy time to hide a string of thefts. The defense says it makes no sense to think there wouldn’t be more scrutiny into Murdaugh’s life and finances after his wife and shot were shot to death.

The judge in the murder trial is allowing prosecutors to present a wide range of evidence that Murdaugh was stealing money from clients and his law firm.

Defense attorneys have con-

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Pawleys Island South Carolina

BROOKGREEN GARDENS | National Sculpture Society exhibition

FEATURED | FROM THE COVER

Metropolitan Arts Council marks 50 years supporting Greenville artists, performers

Photos by Charles Swenson/Coastal Observer

Crawfish Conundrum Tim Cherry | Bronze “Somedays, the only direction we have is UP.”

Song of Protectedness Gedion Nyanhongo | African Opal stone “Singing praises to the unseen Spiritual Hands binding our families together.”

Shape shifters The 90th annual Awards Exhibition of the National Sculpture Society opened this month at Brookgreen Gardens with 41 figurative works by contemporary sculptures in a range of media.

Here is a sample, along with an excerpts from the sculptor’s narrative. The show wraps up with an awards program Oct. 21.

Among them is a people’s choice award for which viewers can cast ballots. The exhibit is free with regular admission.

n story by EVAN PETER SMITH

Refugee Passage Eva-Maria Wohn | Bronze “This piece suggests the light of one of 24,000 migrants who have drowned or gone missing crossing the Mediterranean Sea since 2014.”

Ghosting Vincent Russo | Plaster, epoxy, mixed media “I observed two young women in face-toface proximity preferring to communicate through social media.”

Surviving with No Home Suzanne Storer | Ceramic mixed media “I came upon this gentleman in our downtown park where I often go in the summertime.”

T

he hard truth about art is that it is Center's total economic often forced to justify itself in terms impact will reach $1.5 bilof economics. lion in Greenville County At least, that’s how Alan Ethridge sees it. and $1.7 billion statewide As the longtime executive director of the by 2029, bringing in roughly $80.6 million Metropolitan Arts Council, Ethridge con- to the county each year with another $41.6 stantly blurs the line between art and finance. million from the expansion project under Now celebrating its 50th year in Green- way on the Peace Center’s campus. ville, MAC is primarily a funding agency to For local leaders, the causal relationship provide support to local artists. On any given between artistic investment through orday, Ethridge might juggle profit and loss ganizations like MAC and the city’s $34 statements, put together financial reports, million in annual tourism-generated arrange packets for the board, and perform tax revenue has become more and any number of decidedly nonartistic tasks. more obvious. Greenville Mayor “When people talk about art in a com- Knox White frequently highlights munity, they want to know how it will im- the direct benefits to local hopact things economically, whether that’s tels, restaurants and businesses through tourism, economic development, during art events and perforheads-in-beds and all mances. that stuff,” Ethridge Local busisaid. “I get the need for nesses have all that, but at the same also taken note, time I think there’s an with organizaI mean, just think intrinsic value to art tions like TD Bank of what the world that transcends anypartnering directly with would be like if thing that’s just ecoMAC to further their there were no art. nomically based.” programs.

That’s not a world But for the sake of For Chris Fincher, reI’d want to live in. argument, if you are gional vice president for – ALAN ETHRIDGE the type of person who TD Bank, there would doesn’t see the direct be no motivation to benefit offered by armake such investments tistic investment, Ethif there wasn’t a clear ridge has data on hand as a counterpoint. community payoff.

Just this past spring, Greenville’s annual “At TD, we believe we’ve got a responsibilart festival Artisphere brought in $12.14 ity to give back to the communities we serve, million in economic impact and lured in and so we have a responsibility to make sure 20,350 out-of-town visitors to the city, with we get that and that our efforts create real 16,484 staying at least one night in a local impact,” Fincher said. “I think our commithotel. Over the course of 2022, Open Stu- ments to the community really align with dios brought in $509,520 in sales paid di- what MAC does, so yes, it’s a great fit for us.” rectly to local artists. During the same time Kelly Odom, who runs The Pickwick pharperiod, MAC doled out another $510,455 macy and soda fountain, has been involved in grants to local artists and art initiatives. with MAC as a board member for years. He That came just as a new report from The said he wouldn’t commit that much time if University of South Carolina’s Darla Moore he didn’t believe in the impact.

School of Business predicted the Peace “I think people are starting to really see

22 Raven Celebrates Inventing the Wheel Paul Rhymer | Bronze on stone “She wondered, which creature can I give it to that will use it best?”

Another Victim (front and rear views) Hélène Roberts | Raku fired porcelain “When I was a young girl, I was introduced to the history of the Holocaust by my mother who experienced the horrors of World War II close-up.”

GREENVILLEJOURNAL.COM // SEPTEMBER 15

FROM THE COVER | FEATURED the tangible benefits of what MAC does, whether it’s the SmartARTS program and seeing what the children in Greenville County public schools are learning and creating, or appreciating what these great individual artists and arts organizations are providing,” Odom said. “You just see the results, and it’s always positive.”

Then there are what Ethridge might call the more “intrinsic” benefits of artistic investment, namely the way local artists have found support beyond sheer monetary interest.

“I’ve been to a lot of different cities, and I haven’t yet found one that is as well supported as Greenville is by the Metropolitan Arts Council and by the community as a whole,” said Jan Wesley, a local artist who founded the Flat Out Under Pressure contest.

As for Ethridge, who likes to consider himself a “cynic from birth,” it

can be easy to be gloomy about much in the world — but being cynical about the arts?

“I mean, just think of what the world would be like if there were no art,” he said. “That’s not a world I’d want to live in.”

IMAGE KEY Top row: Melissa Anderson (photo by Bonfire VIsuals).

Middle row, from left: Vase by Darin Gehrke (photo by Will Crooks); Jason Anderson, (photo by Bonfire Visuals); Ninja Picasso (Greenville Journal file photo).

Bottom row: An Open Studios event in 2019 (photos by Irina Rice).

Alan Ethridge | photo by ELI WARREN

WHAT DOES MAC OFFER?

Quarterly grants program Called “the backbone of MAC,” the quarterly grants program provides a stream of unrestricted income to Greenville-based artists. Four times a year, artists can submit grant applications to receive up to $1,500 each. The money is spent creating art that benefits the community. Larger organizations are also supported by the program.

Open Studios tour This free, self-guided tour provides an educational experience by literally opening the doors of studios around town, inviting the public to stroll inside, meet the artists and learn more about the artistic process. Artists get a chance to market their work, and residents can explore the nuanced and diverse array of art in their community.

MAC IS A MAJOR SOURCE OF OPERATIONAL INCOME FOR: Artisphere Centre Stage Greenville Chorale Greenville Symphony Orchestra Peace Center South Carolina Children’s Theatre The Warehouse Theatre

Flat Out Under Pressure This art contest pits artists against one another — and against the clock — in an attempt to create the most compelling 2D art within a 24-hour time frame. Artists show up on Friday morning with a blank surface measuring no more than 30 inches by 30 inches, including the frame. After 24 hours, they present their finished work.

Winners will have their work professionally recreated on eight sponsored recycling bins around downtown and will also take home a cash prize of up to $1,000.

MAC'S ASSETS IN 2006:

$190K

MAC'S ASSETS IN 2022:

$3.4M

SmartARTS sponsored by TD Bank Hosted at the TD Center for Arts Integration, the partnership between Greenville County Schools and MAC connects students, artist and teachers to educate kids on how the arts can be both a viable career path and, perhaps more importantly, a lifelong outlet for creativity, growth and learning. The goal is to foster a more complete and richer educational environment for the county’s youngest residents.

First Fridays You’ve likely heard of a pub crawl — well, consider this a “gallery crawl.” On the first Friday of every month from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., galleries around town open their doors to the public. With dozens of galleries participating, it’s easy to find a stretch of town that will provide ample spots to stop, take in the art and maybe grab a drink or a bite to eat along the way.

SEPTEMBER 15 // GREENVILLEJOURNAL.COM

23

FEATURE PAGE DESIGN OPEN DIVISION

Welcome to the

Queendom Exploring the world of

Scott Suchy Charleston City Paper

Charleston drag

12

Diamond Giovanni sees drag as an important platform for self-expression

Ashley Rose Stanol

Feature 07.21.2023

By Chelsea Grinstead

ix-inch heels, spotlights and sequins are some of the main tools in a drag queen’s arsenal, but lightheartedness, poise and charisma are essential too.

“We take what we do seriously. We want to put on a good show. We want to entertain. But, we also laugh at ourselves,” said Brooke Collins, Charleston’s premier drag entertainer who honed her skills over the past 38 years in the industry.

“We know what we’re doing and know sometimes it can be ridiculous, but that’s what makes it fun,” Collins told the Charleston City Paper. “Ultimately, if somebody’s coming to see a drag show, they want to release what their day was like or what their life is like. [A drag show is] a short time to forget and just have a good time and laugh at the ridiculousness, the glamor — all the good things.”

Collins, who grew up on James Island, said she first fell in love with drag entertainment in her college years when she was a ballet dancer.

“It was so glamorous, and it was just intriguing,” she said. “I found out that [the performers] chose their own songs and their own costumes. Their choreography — everything — was done by them.”

Collins has poured her energy into developing the local drag scene over the past four decades as a performer, show director and talent developer at various venues, including Dudley’s on Ann, her current domain.

She said audience etiquette can be reduced to one thing: “Tip the entertainers.”

Drag show goers need only common sense and some dollar bills to enjoy a show.

Queens don’t take their clothes off, but they interact with audience members and may choose songs with vulgarity if the shows are intended for viewers who are 21 and older.

Establishments clearly label their events as general audience or adults-only, so be sure to check ahead of time if needed.

Charleston’s drag entertainment scene is bursting at the seams today. There are at least a dozen local establishments hosting shows, brunches and bingo, including Deco Nightclub and The Lucky Luchador downtown, Tin Roof in West Ashley and North Charleston’s Madra Rua Irish Pub and Holy

Charleston’s drag history

Charleston, though small and Southern, has always had an LGBTQ+ presence and drag has consistently been a part of that community, said historian Harlan Greene, who published a book last November on Charleston’s LGBTQ+ history titled The Real Rainbow Row. “Charleston drag queens in the 1950s and after were doing exactly what their peers were doing elsewhere in this country,” Greene told the City Paper. “In the eyes of some, it was transgressing, but in others, it was trans, period — either a manifestation of identity or invoking a transcendent experience through art.”

Greene said he’s seen news reports of men cross-dressing in Charleston in the 1850s, as well as an account of a local Revolutionary War soldier who was found in women’s clothes. “[Historians] also Greene know of Charleston city police in the 1970s giving drag queens rides in their cruisers, making sure they arrived in bars safely,” he said. “It’s part of the human story.”

Drag performance catapulted as a social response in support of LGBTQ+ individuals who did not have access to professional entertainment, Collins said.

“We know what we’re doing and know sometimes it can be ridiculous, but that’s what makes it fun.” —Brooke Collins

charlestoncitypaper.com

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City Brewing, to name a few.

“Now you can’t swing a dead cat without hitting a drag show in Charleston,” said iconic drag queen of the Carolinas Patti O’Furniture. “There’s a lot of drag in Charleston. That wasn’t the case in the early 2010s.”

While drag performance has become a national powerhouse these days, Collins said, it’s also a subject under media scrutiny. “[There are] a lot of misconceptions out there about drag, and usually it’s coming from people who have never in their life witnessed a drag show,” she said. “Just educate yourself before you start talking about something you don’t know.”

“Drag came to be at a point in time when no one of any stature — celebrities, vocalists whatever — would come and entertain in a gay bar,” she said. “Drag came about as a way to bring entertainment in the gay bars.

We created our own entertainment and in doing so, we created stars and people in our community that people can look up to.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

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Julie Holcombe The Greer Citizen

Matt Zabierek The Daniel Island News

SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2023

B

CELEBRATING CHAMPIONS

ARMCHAIR REPORTER TREY STEWART

How many chances?

I

’m all for second chances. Heaven knows throughout my life, I’ve needed second, third, fourth, fifth chances, and often more. People make mistakes. I’m no exception, and neither are you.

It’s hurtful to watch. As a fan of the Grizzlies, as a fan of Morant, as a fan of the sport of basketball itself.

Photos by William Buchheit

EASTSIDE GIRLS ‘It’s just amazing to see all of that work the team has put in to finally come to fruition.’

David Craig

Eastside girls soccer coach

Lady Eagles claim AAAA state title First since ‘07 ship game against James er, though. She couldn’t their lead, they didn’t let words, honestly,” said

BY TREY STEWART STAFF WRITER Eastside’s Kennedy Craig had been practicing her corner kicks all season — specifically, in-swinging corner kicks from the right side of the field. She’d become great at them.

In the 52nd minute of Eastside’s state champion-

Island, she was called upon to take another one of those corners. When that kick left her foot, however, she didn’t feel great about it.

“Normally, my corners go kind of high, but that one was low,” Craig said. “I didn’t think that one was going to be very good.”

The low ball troubled the James Island keep-

scoop up the ball on the bounce, and it ricocheted off her shins instead.

Craig’s corner kick scampered across the box and found Eastside center midfielder Camille Carter waiting at the back post.

Carter lifted the ball into the back of the net and gave Eastside a 1-0 advantage.

Once the Lady Eagles got

go. The final whistle blew, and Eastside captured its first girls’ soccer state championship since 2007.

After years of coming up just short, the Lady Eagles finally accomplished their ultimate goal.

Eastside Coach David Craig was overcome with emotion the moment the game finalized.

“I can’t even put it into

Craig. “It’s just amazing to see all of that work the team has put in to finally come to fruition.”

The Lady Eagles entered the Class AAAA playoffs as a No. 8 seed and had their work cut out for them from the start.

Eastside took out No. 9 seed Northwestern in the SEE EAGLES | B2

RIVERSIDE BOYS ‘They came in ready to play and ready to execute our game plan, and they did it very well.’

Scott Columbia

Riverside boys soccer coach

Warriors capture AAAA state title be celebrating this time of to keep Riverside in front scoring.

Three-peat as pionship.

The result of the game year, business as usual for Two goals from Keagan just after halftime. The Pace, along with goals Warriors came out firing was hardly in question a program of Riverside’s state champs from pedigree. Columbia credfrom the start.

Fabian Menendez after that.

BY TREY STEWART STAFF WRITER

For the third consecutive year, Riverside soccer stands above the rest. Friday’s 4-1 win over James Island clinched the Class AAAA state title for the Warriors, the program’s third-straight state cham-

and Andres Moreno sealed Riverside’s comfortable win. Codrin Robu assisted on all three of the Warriors’ goals from play.

Pace opened the scoring in the 18th minute after Riverside had been knocking at the door in the first half. Goalkeeper Casey Smith saved a penalty kick

Back-to-back goals from Moreno and Menendez extended the Warrior’s lead to 3-0 with 20 minutes remaining. James Island found the back of the net with about 15 minutes to go, but it was far too little, far too late. Pace converted a penalty kick just minutes later to round out the

“We came out ready to go from the start,” said Riverside coach Scott Columbia. “It was just a good, strong performance from the boys. They came in ready to play and ready to execute our game plan, and they did it very well.”

It’s become a tradition of sorts for the Warriors to

ited the culture that the team has built, from top to bottom.

“So many people deserve the credit,” Columbia said.

“Our JV coaches do an outstanding job with the boys at that level, so when they come up here, they’re SEE WARRIORS | B2

Our mistakes, however, likely aren’t costly to the effect of hundreds of millions of dollars.

Over the weekend, another — yes, another — video surfaced of Memphis Grizzlies superstar point guard Ja Morant brandishing a handgun in a video streamed on Instagram Live. This isn’t the first instance of such behavior from Morant, however.

Back in March, the Murray State-grad was filmed at a strip club in Denver holding a gun, prompting an NBA and police investigation. No charges were filed against Morant, but the young star was handed an eight-game suspension from NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. Morant also checked himself into a counseling program following the ordeal, where he seemed to have found a shift in his mindset.

He rejoined the Grizzlies to finish out the team’s season. Now, just a few weeks into the team’s offseason, Morant is staring down a lengthy suspension heading into Memphis’ 2023-24 campaign.

I want to approach this topic empathetically, and not as a fan — even though I’ve grown up a Grizzlies fanatic.

Truly, I hope Morant finds his way back to the court after this is all said and done, and I hope he plays better than ever.

More importantly, I hope his well-documented struggles with mental health improve, and he’s able to find peace of mind.

I’m a huge fan of Morant. I have been from the moment he set foot in the league in 2019 and took the NBA by storm.

But I don’t look up to him. Not even in the slightest.

And no, it’s not just because he’s the same age as me (I’m actually two months his senior).

Rather, I don’t look up to Morant because he’s been given a platform that only a handful in a million will ever receive, and he’s squandering it.

Some kids do look up to Morant, buy his shoes, watch his highlight tapes on YouTube, wear his jersey, and want to be like him when they get older.

Morant’s recent escapades show that not only is he neglecting to think about those children, but he’s spitting in the face of a city and a franchise that’s laid its plans out with Morant as the foundation.

It’s hurtful to watch. As a fan of the Grizzlies, as a fan of Morant, as a fan of the sport of basketball itself.

But as a fellow 23-yearold who knows nothing of the stresses that come with such a platform, I have to give Morant grace.

I believe that at the end of the day, he means well.

He’s just misguided right SEE COLUMN | B2

22 | TENNIS thedanielislandnews.com

The Daniel Island News ■ April 6 - 12, 2023

April 6 - 12, 2023 ■ The Daniel Island News

thedanielislandnews.com

TECH-SAVVY TENNIS ELIZABETH BUSH

P

beth@thedanielislandnews.com

rofessional tennis players have an arsenal of tools they can use to maximize their athletic performance. Top notch coaches, trainers, and medical experts are just of few of them.

But additions to the digital realm are sparking what some have dubbed a “tech revolution” in the sport, giving players potentially game-changing information.

There’s the WHOOP strap, a 24/7 personalized digital fitness and health coach that the WTA Tour approved for use during competition in 2021. The device straps

to the wrist and helps players analyze health and performance data.

Real-time biometric stats from the strap can even be incorporated into WTA broadcasts during matches.

Another wearable gadget - the Catapult OptimEyeS5 sensor - fits into a vest and promises to deliver “unique and reliable insights” into a player’s performance. The Oura Ring keeps track of a variety of bodily functions, such as sleep, temperature, and heart rate.

The data provided through these devices, and others like them, is intended to provide athletes hyper personalized analytics that could lead to a competitive edge – and

WHOOP/WTA

American pro tennis player Sloane Stephens is pictured here wearing a WHOOP strap, a 24/7 personalized digital fitness and health device that tracks performance and health data. Stephens signed on to be a brand ambassador for WHOOP in 2021, when the company partnered with the WTA to become the first wearable fitness technology for match play. She will be back on Daniel Island this week competing for the 2023 Credit One Charleston Open title (she won the event in 2016).

Rogers better overall health. In fact, at a conference hosted by the WTA and its lead global sponsor Hologic in 2021, some of the world’s most renowned female athletes gathered with healthcare experts to discuss the challenges facing women, but also new opportunities that are enabling them to prioritize their well-being both on and off the court. Among those taking part in the event was WHOOP VP of Performance Science Kristen Holmes.

“There’s been a historic lack of athletic performance research on women’s health which has put our knowledge of female physiology far behind that of male,” stated Holmes in a press release. “But we are working together to empower women with personalized, actionable insights.”

Many of the evolving tech offerings are scoring big points with pro athletes, including some of the elite players competing in this year’s Credit One Charleston Open. Several of the top seeds in in the tournament shared their thoughts on whether or not the devices are serving up good results.

“I’ve worn WHOOP kind of on and off,” said U.S. player and World No.22 Madison Keys, the

Badosa

TENNIS | 23

Several COCO players utilize digital tools to achieve peak performance

Bencic

2019 COCO champion. “Honestly, since they came out, even before the tour and them had a deal, I loved using them. I think it’s a lot of really good insight. I’ve also tried the Oura Ring and I’ve done the heart rate monitor. I’ve basically done anything and everything.

I think it’s really important and… even more than just the tennis aspect of it, I think it’s such a unique way to kind of check in with your body.”

For Keys, who is playing in Charleston for the 10th time, seeing daily data on her sleep patterns, her recovery, and more, has been advantageous.

“I think all of us athletes are constantly looking for ways to just have that 1% that can help us,” added Keys.

Belinda Bencic of Switzerland, the 2022 Charleston Open champion, has used the WHOOP strap, a “smart vest” and other devices to perfect her game.

“I think tennis has developed, also the fitness part of it has developed for sure,” said Bencic, who is back on Daniel Island this week to defend her title. “…I think it’s great to track the sleep…Also, the running, your explosivity, the

Jabeur

strength, but also the balance between your body. So it’s all these tests you’re doing and then you have to maintain all year to work with this information.”

But Bencic cautions that it’s important to not become overwhelmed with the data. To keep it from becoming too much, she doesn’t look at her health data day to day. Instead, it is sent directly to her fitness coach.

“I think it’s very good when there is new things that are helping us, but also we cannot overanalyze everything,” added Bencic. “We have to use it, but not go crazy with all the information…and sometimes you have to still listen to your own body.”

Ons Jabeur of Tunisia, who is currently World No. 5 and seeded No. 2 in this week’s tournament, is also a fan of paying attention to what your body is telling you, as opposed to relying on technology.

“I have tried it, but I honestly didn’t like it much,” said Jabeur, when asked about wearable technology. “I’m trying other things, but for me I feel like it’s good to have like the heart rate and everything…I’m someone that is very aware of their body. So I feel

Keys like I need to just like go with my sensations, you know, and push with that, and of course we do a lot of tests to see what’s happening. But for now, I’m not wearing WHOOP or any other (device) full time.”

World No. 33 Paula Badosa of Spain also prefers to keep things a bit more old school when it comes to maximizing her game.

The Charleston Open competitor is currently not utilizing any wearable technology and instead is sticking to traditional training methods.

“I have no idea, because I don’t know what they do,” stated Badosa, who is one of the tennis talents featured in the new Netflix series “Breakpoint.” “I know some players use it, but I don’t really know…I’m not informed.”

But Charleston’s hometown hero Shelby Rogers, who entered the 2023 Charleston Open as the No. 18 seed, is firmly planted on the tech bandwagon. She started using the WHOOP strap in 2016.

“I think it’s great,” she said.

“It’s great insight for the players.

I think it could be a cool tool to give fans some insight as well…

Handling the data the right way

is super important. But if we can get that under control, I think it’s absolutely a fantastic thing… It gives you insight into how you’re sleeping, how you’re performing, how you manage your day to day recovery. And I think for a lot of people, it can help your mental health. It can help just overall well-being.”

Rogers’ fellow American player Sloane Stephens, the 2016 Charleston Open champion, signed on to be a brand ambassador for WHOOP in 2021. According to a WTA press release, Stephens, who is also in Charleston for this week’s tournament, believes that the strap has given her more knowledge than she’s ever had in her career about what’s happening with her body.

“The WTA’s partnership with WHOOP goes beyond tennis and has the potential to change the way players approach personal health,” she stated in a press release. “We’ve never had access to technology like WHOOP during matches – it’s definitely a gamechanger.”

“I think athletes are always looking for an upper hand and different ways to get insight into their own game and improve the way that they’re performing,” added Rogers. “I mean, that’s not a secret. Every athlete is trying to get the newest, the best, the biggest, whatever it is, and I think WHOOP has done a really great job of developing a tool that’s easy to use for everyone, not just athletes.”

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Beaufort High School head football coach Bryce Lybrand holds up the Class 3A State Championship trophy for all to see after the Eagles defeated Powdersville, 41-31, Thursday night in Columbia.

Beaufort wins 1st state championship since 1945

S

Story by Mike McCombs | Photo by Bob Sofaly

eventy-seven years is a long time.

That’s how long it had been since Beaufort High School had won a state championship in football before Bruce Lybrand’s Eagles knocked off the Powdersville Patriots, 41–31, on Thursday night in Columbia.

When Beaufort last won a title, the school’s athletic teams were called the Tidal Wave and it would be a quarter century before integration. It’s

likely most grandparents of the players on this year’s edition of the Eagles weren’t even born.

But after state championship game losses in 2007 and then again last year, Kacy Fields and company got the job done this time — without throwing a pass — to give the Eagles their first 3A crown and their third title overall (1935, 1945, 2022).

Congratulations to the Beaufort Eagles, their fans and their families, past and present.

SEE BOX SCORE, PAGE BFT2 | SEE GAME STORY, PAGE BFT2 | SEE FIELDS HAS IT, PAGE BFT3 | SEE PHOTOS, PAGE BFT4

Congratulations to the State Champion Beaufort High Eagles Football Team

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Friday, March 3, 2023

Ninety Six baseball downs Emerald, improves to 2-0

By CAM ADAMS cadams@indexjournal.com Just like in any sport, mistakes can kill in baseball.

Ninety Six had its fair share early on against Emerald Wednesday, allowing the Vikings score three runs early.

Then the script flipped.

Emerald mistakes arose in the third inning, giving the Wildcats the chance to tie, and when they were tied, Ninety Six made the Vikings pay.

Parker Sutley blasted a 2-RBI single and Carver Davis batted in another runner to complete a six-run frame, lifting the Wild-

Tyler Rude of Emerald makes contact in the Vikings’ Wednesday night loss to Ninety Six. CAM ADAMS | INDEX-JOURNAL

cats to a 9-4 five-inning, road win over Emerald.

“I thought we scrapped, we battled, I thought their starting pitcher (Tucker Meredith) did a great job keeping us off balance, we couldn’t square him up, finally got to him there a little bit,” Ninety Six coach Chad Ellis said.

“We made some stuff happen. We were aggressive on the bases, maybe a little bit too aggressive sometimes, but worked out in our favor tonight.”

Meredith was pitching lights out through the first two innings, striking out three Wildcats and leaving Ninety Six

hitless. Then in the third, miscues both on the mound from Meredith and reliever Maddox Moore and in the infield plagued Emerald.

The Wildcats took advantage of hit-by-pitches, walks and a throwing error by the Vikings before Sutley’s and Davis’ big hits. “(To have) walked all the people we walked and to give them free bases just doesn’t ever work out for you in the end,” Emerald coach Mack Hite said. “They made it hurt when they needed it, they swung the See NINETY SIX, page 2B

BUSINESS JESSICA MEANS

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE

Georgia defensive lineman Jalen Carter waves to the crowd before the national championship College Football Playoff game between Georgia and TCU.

Jalen Carter, top NFL prospect, posts bond in fatal crash

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Saluda senior earns I-J Player of Year honor

By CHARLES ODUM Associated Press

By CAM ADAMS cadams@indexjournal.com

Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter turned himself in to Athens police Wednesday night and was released 16 minutes later after posting a combined bond of $4,000 on charges of reckless driving and racing in relation to a fatal crash that killed a teammate and team staffer.

According to Athens-Clarke County jail records, Carter turned himself in at 11:33 p.m. and was released at 11:49 p.m.

Carter posted bond of $2,500 on the racing charge and $1,500 on the reckless driving charge.

Carter, projected as one of the top players in next month’s NFL draft, left the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis on Wednesday after being informed of the arrest warrant issued in conjunction with the Jan. 15 crash that killed teammate Devin Willock and a recruiting staff member.

The arrest warrant alleges Carter was racing his 2021 Jeep Trackhawk against the 2021 Ford Expedition driven by the recruiting staffer, 24-year-old Chandler LeCroy, which led to the wreck. LeCroy also was killed in the crash.

Carter issued a statement on his Twitter account on Wednesday saying he expects to be “fully exonerated.”

Carter said he intends “to make certain that the complete and accurate truth is presented. There is no question in my mind that when all of the facts are known that I will be fully exonerated of any criminal wrongdoing.”

The crash occurred just hours after the Bulldogs celebrated their second straight national championship with a parade and ceremony.

According to the allegations in the arrest warrant, LeCroy and Carter were operating their vehicles “in a manner consistent with racing” after leaving downtown Athens at about 2:30 a.m.

The warrant says evidence shows the vehicles switched lanes, drove in the center turn lane, drove in opposite lanes, overtook other motorists and drove at high rates of speed “in an apparent attempt to outdistance each other.”

here’s something about Jessica Means that makes her special.

Her unrivaled leadership certainly stands out.

The Saluda senior’s large presence on the court does, too.

Oh yeah, she also scores a ton of points.

In the Tigers’ impressive season, Means led the Lakelands in points per game, averaging 22.5 while also posting 8.9 rebounds and three steals per game. Her free throw percentage? Top-notch at 70.6%. From the field? 49.6%.

Those are certainly numbers to boast about, and for her outstanding season, Means has been named the Index-Journal girls basketball Player of the Year.

What’s her secret to her success?

“I think it’s just skills, what I work on during practice and just knowing how to value myself,” Means said. “It feels great (to be selected as Player of the Year).”

Saluda went with Means all season in the 13-8 year that ended in the second round of the Class

T

See MEANS, page 2B

INDEX-JOURNAL FILE

Saluda senior Jessica Means goes up for a layup in the Tigers firstround playoff win over Pelion on Feb. 15.

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BEST IN 2A

FIRST PLACE CODY ESTREMERA | INDEX-JOURNAL

Abbeville’s players celebrate after getting the 2A state championship trophy from head coach Jamie Nickles.

Bob Simmonds Index-Journal

Abbeville’s line prevails in state championship

Seniors’ Redemption Tour was uphill battle

By CODY ESTREMERA cestremera@indexjournal.com

By GREG K. DEAL gdeal@indexjournal.com

COLUMBIA — Coming into Friday’s 2A state championship game, Abbeville knew it had a huge test in front of it. Literally.

That test put into sight when the Panthers lined up against hulking Monroe Freeling, a 6-foot-7, 285 pound Georgia commit, and the rest of the Landsharks’ offensive and defensive lines.

For four quarters, the Panthers went up against a bigger line, but time and again, the Panthers were the ones taking it to the larger line in front of them.

“That offensive and defensive line, you’d have to pay me some money to go up against those animals,” Abbeville coach Jamie Nickles said. “When you look at the size differential, it was huge. It was hard to get to the quarterback.”

The onslaught started from the jump and was featured around nose guard Jae Harris. The junior was a wrecking ball in the middle of the Panthers’ defensive line, constantly disrupting the Landsharks offensive flow.

Overall, he finished with 10 total tackles, six of which were solos. More important, he made plays when Oceanside dropped back, dragging Edward Reidenbach to the turf twice for a loss of 12 yards on his two sacks. He also forced a fumble on a tackle for a loss.

Off the edge was Addison Nickles, who faced off against Freeling all night, finishing with six total tackles. He too put pressure on Reidenbach and was key in holding the Landsharks to less than 100 yards on the ground.

“I was on the Georgia commit all night long,” Addison Nickles said. “It was really just try to suppress him. He kicked my butt a few plays but I got by him a couple of times. It was really a big part.

Their big thing was him getting on the linebackers. I kept him off our linebackers all night long.

It was just a hard fought battle for four quarters.”

On the other side of the ball, the Panthers ran wild nearly eclipsing 300 yards on the ground.

That success was because of the work that players such as center Jacob Ferguson, who faced off against Freeling most of the night.

“He was big, but I got up in there and handled him,” Ferguson said. “I had four pancakes on him. ... Linemen don’t get much credit for it but I think they deserve a little bit of credit for what they’re doing. It kind of leads to the big runs.”

COLUMBIA — “That won’t happen again.”

Those were the words of Abbeville quarterback Zay Rayford before the start of this football season, talking about the Panthers coming up short of reaching the state championship game in 2021.

Fast-forward to 2022. Rayford and the rest of the Abbeville seniors were standing at the center of Charles W. Johnson Stadium in Columbia on Friday, hoisting the Class 2A state championship trophy so the throng of Abbeville fans could see it.

It was their redemption tour.

These seniors captured a state title as sophomores in 2020, but fell short in a loss to Gray Collegiate in last year’s Upper State title game. Their fingerprints were all

CODY ESTREMERA | INDEX-JOURNAL

Abbeville’s Damarcus Leach slings down Oceanside Collegiate running back Vaughn Blue.

Abbeville overcomes slow start, wins 8th state title under Nickles

By CAM ADAMS cadams@indexjournal.com COLUMBIA — The Panthers were at a loss through their first two drives.

Against a stacked Oceanside Collegiate defensive front, Abbeville mustered just four yards on back-to-back three-and-outs.

Despite the slow start, the Panthers bought into the Kool-Aid they were drinking all season, and about two-and-a-half hours later — the taste was sweet.

The Panthers used explosive plays on offense and defense to jump out to a lead and run away with it in a 35-20 Class 2A state title win over Oceanside.

“It feels good to be here, man, senior year, state championship, it just feels awesome,” Abbeville senior Antonio Harrison said.

Harrison, who had been out most of the season with a torn ACL, loomed large in his school’s 12th all-time state championship.

The senior ran in a 9-yard score in the fourth and his third-quarter 20-yard catch set up a Zay Rayford 10-yard touchdown to put Abbeville up

by 21.

And he was just as effective on defense.

Harrison was stellar in the Abbeville secondary with key pass breakups and a touchdown-saving tackle at the 2-yard-line right before half.

It was quite the night for a guy whose senior season was in question this spring.

“Just tremendous to see him come back and do what he did this year, it’s almost a miracle from God, really,” Nickles said. “Give him all the glory.”

Along with Harrison, the Panther secondary gave the offense grace in the first half, keeping the Landsharks scoreless with three fourth-down stops in Abbeville territory.

Meanwhile, Karson Norman ignited the spark for the Maroon and Gold.

The sophomore found running room and bursted down the field on a 61-yard touchdown run, and the next two drives were just as explosive as the third.

After two turnovers on downs, the Panthers picked up right where they left off with a 23-yard Ty Cade run and a Jay Tinch 31-yard touchdown

See ABBEVILLE, page 3B

Great use of graphics, smooth easy flow of stories. This page would make me stop and look.

See BATTLE, page 1B

CODY ESTREMERA | INDEX-JOURNAL

Abbeville quarterback Zay Rayford, right, celebrates with fellow senior running back Jamal Marshall after scoring a 10-yard touchdown.

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END OF THE ROAD, END OF AN ERA

BOWL GAME BUMMER Gamecocks close out 2022 with Gator Bowl loss to Notre Dame

At Final Four, Iowa spoils senior-heavy South Carolina’s quest for another title

SAM WOLFE Special To The State

South Carolina quarterback Spencer Rattler (7) gets brought down by Rylie Mills of Notre Dame during the Gator Bowl Friday at TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville.

BY BEN PORTNOY

bportnoy@thestate.com

SAM WOLFE Special To The State

South Carolina Gamecocks wide receiver Xavier Legette (17) gets tripped up by DJ Brown of Notre Dame during the Gator Bowl Friday at TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville, Florida.

completion of his own on a double-pass play.

Punter Kai Kroeger, though, provided the most wonky of the Gamecocks’ early antics when he connected on a beautifully lofted 23-yard touchdown pass to long snapper Hunter Rogers off a fake field goal.

Four plays later, safety DQ Smith — who played high school ball with Rogers at Spring Valley — put the Gamecocks ahead 21-7 when he corralled a deflected Tyler Buchner pass, dashed down the sideline and into the end zone for a pick-six.

“We didn’t end the season how we wanted to,” Smith said.

“But throughout the season, we were counted out a lot of times.

... It’s a big stage to be able to compete. We just came up a little shorthanded.”

That South Carolina slugged its way to a two-score, first-half lead only lasted so long. Despite an erratic 9-of-17 passing effort in the first two frames, Buchner scampered his way to rushing scores of 15 and 11 yards — the latter of which pulled the squads even at 24 on the second drive of the second half.

The Fighting Irish and Gamecocks continued trading blows throughout Friday’s third quarter. Rattler delivered the first of the haymakers, stepping into the pocket and leaping as he slung a SEE GATOR BOWL, 6B

Clemson seeks answers following disappointing bowl loss

BY CHAPEL FOWLER

cfowler@thestate.com MIAMI GARDENS, FLA

Clemson had 11 really good days in 2022.

They also had three really bad ones.

For a program trying to main-

South Carolina loses to Iowa in the NCAA Tournament Final Four game at the American Airlines Center on Friday.

Coach Beamer, Gamecocks building despite Notre Dame loss

JACKSONVILLE, FLA.

Consider the sandstorm weathered.

As Notre Dame tight end Mitchell Evans walked into the South Carolina end zone for the go-ahead touchdown in the waning moments of Friday’s Gator Bowl, the white towels that waved with vigor earlier in the afternoon at TIAA Bank Field hung idly. The scattered Notre Dame fans who felt outnumbered five-to-one in the concourses and concessions stands around the stadium were heard, truly, for the first time.

Notre Dame 45, South Carolina 38.

“Today was a bump and a loss that really, really, really hurt,” a dejected Gamecocks coach Shane Beamer said afterward, eyes sullied and worn. “But we got the right people in our program. You can tell that by the hurt that’s in that locker room right now. There’s not many dry eyes in there, to say the least.”

South Carolina (8-5) entertained the overwhelmingly garnet-and-black clad 67,383 fans with a first half filled with enough wild and whimsical plays to fill a backyard football playbook.

Quarterback-turned-receiver Dakereon Joyner threw a pair of passes. Spencer Rattler looked deep on a double-reverse flea flicker. Receiver Xavier Legette even had a chance to toss a

JOSHUA BOUCHER jboucher@thestate.com

COMMENTARY

BY BEN PORTNOY

bportnoy@thestate.com

tain its status as one of college football’s blue bloods, those two points came to a head late Friday night at Hard Rock Stadium as the Tigers tried to process a 31-14 loss to Tennessee in the Orange Bowl.

There was so much to like from these past four months — a 12th-straight season of 10 or

more wins, a seventh ACC championship in eight seasons — and so much to look forward to with freshman quarterback Cade Klubnik among so many budding stars returning in 2023.

But there was so much to critique, too. The slip-ups against Notre Dame and South Carolina and, on Friday, the

JACKSONVILLE, FLA.

Shane Beamer’s eyes welled as he stood behind the interview podium in the underbelly of TIAA Bank Field.

He clutched either side of his perch, pushed back the lump in his throat and fought through the disappointment that shone on his face and the faces of his players and staffers scattered throughout the facility.

“For us to be down (12) players and for those guys to play their butts off like they did,” Beamer said, pausing for four seconds to hold back tears, “and leave everything out there like they did, I’m really, really, really proud to be their coach.”

That Beamer’s emotions showed in the moments following No. 19 South Carolina’s 45-38 loss to No. 21 Notre

Volunteers. There were selfinflicted errors and lingering issues that Clemson didn’t make and didn’t have during a sixyear run of College Football Playoff appearances.

Consider the No. 7 Tigers back near the top — just not at it.

“We’re not anywhere near where we need to be or going to be, but we got better,” coach Dabo Swinney said. “That’s something that we can take away from it.”

Going 11-3 is a godsend in a lot of places but not Upstate

Dame in Friday’s Gator Bowl isn’t a surprise. He’s never one to fear showing his softer or fiery sides. He loves on his players. He fires back at detractors.

This version of Beamer in Jacksonville, though, was a reflective version of the head coach who has done so much in clawing South Carolina (8-5) back into college football consciousness after wandering through the abyss in the final months of the Will Muschamp era. Friday wasn’t the storybook ending 2021 brought, but it’s another stone turned in the rebuilding project he inherited.

“Very few people, I think, thought in 2021 that we’d finish the season in a bowl game, and we finished the season in a bowl game, in a bowl victory in Charlotte last year,” he said. “... We had a tough schedule this year and people didn’t think we may make a bowl game this year.

Not only did we get in a bowl game, we’ve won eight games and were nationally ranked coming into this game. We’ve made a ton of progress, and it’s

BY JEREMIAH HOLLOWAY

jholloway@thestate.com DALLAS

South Carolina’s quest for a perfect season and back-to-back national championships is over.

The Gamecocks lost to Iowa 77-73 Friday night in the NCAA Tournament Final Four at the American Airlines Center. The loss snapped a program-record 42-game winning streak.

South Carolina’s season ended with a 36-1 record. Iowa advanced to face LSU in Sunday’s national championship game.

SEE CLEMSON, 7B

GAME RECAP Iowa took control of the game early. The Hawkeyes found easy runs to the rim on pick-androlls, finding holes in the South Carolina defense.

Iowa’s Caitlin Clark — the Naismith National Player of the Year — finished with a game-high 41 points. Monika Czinano contributed 10 points of her own.

Boston picked up two firstquarter fouls, and remained on the bench for the rest of the first half. Kamilla Cardoso filled in well, controlling the offensive glass and scoring over smaller Iowa players.

South Carolina looked out of

No. 1 USC looked unfamiliar in Final Four loss

BY BOB SPEAR

Special to The State

BY JEREMIAH HOLLOWAY

jholloway@thestate.com

JOSHUA BOUCHER jboucher@thestate.com

South Carolina Gamecocks forward Aliyah Boston (4) walks back to her team’s bench after losing to Iowa in the NCAA Tournament Final Four game at the American Airlines Center on Friday.

DALLAS

The locker room of the South Carolina women’s basketball team at American Airlines Center was filled to the brim Thursday afternoon with reporters from across the nation.

Attention is far from uncommon for the nation’s No. 1 team, especially one with the Gamecocks’ star power.

Reporters from a variety of media outlets swarmed South

character to start the third quarter. The team didn’t move the ball around as much as it usually does, and Iowa quickly went up by nine points at the 7:01 mark.

The Gamecocks trimmed the lead to four points heading into the fourth. Boston briefly cut the lead to one point with a layup, but a Clark 3-pointer put the Hawkeyes back up by two.

Redshirt freshman Raven Johnson made a 3-pointer to cut the lead to 69-68 with 4:25 remaining in the fourth quarter, but Clark answered later with a driving layup.

With the Gamecocks down by two points, Clark missed a 3-

pointer from the left wing with 21 seconds left in the game. But the Gamecocks couldn’t haul in the offensive rebound, and were forced to foul with the shot clock turned off.

Boston finished with eight points and 10 rebounds in 25 minutes.

CAITLIN CLARK SHINES Clark lived up to her National Player of the Year billing on Friday, lighting up the Gamecocks in Dallas.

She finished with 41 points on 15-of-31 shooting, including four SEE IOWA, 8B

The 2023 Masters: 5 subjects on everyone’s mind this week

COMMENTARY

SEE PORTNOY, 6B

South Carolina, where the current standard remains the CFP national championships Swinney’s Tigers delivered in 2016 and 2018 behind elite quarterback play and offense, and topto-bottom consistency.

That hasn’t been the case over the past two seasons, with longtime starting quarterback DJ Uiagalelei providing some — but not enough — magic and a lack of elite options at receiver becoming more and more clear, and coaching turnover shaking

“When that buzzer went off, it was kind of the end of an era.

We had a special group,” Gamecocks forward Aliyah Boston said, a nod to the team’s seniorheavy roster. USC could lose as many as seven veterans from the roster this offseason.

Fellow senior Zia Cooke played all 40 minutes and led the South Carolina scoring with 24 points.

“We didn’t make the plays that we needed to make down the stretch,” head coach Dawn Staley. “That wasn’t us all season long. ... Iowa had a terrific game plan and we didn’t get it done.”

Carolina’s athletes, with little breathing room or space to walk around, ahead of the longawaited game between USC and Iowa in the NCAA Tournament’s Final Four.

Less than 36 hours later, the scene couldn’t have been more different.

South Carolina’s main locker room was bare, other than a handful of Gamecocks who hadn’t departed for the team bus. The alertness from winning another game was absent, replaced with the dejection of a

shocking defeat.

As uncommon as the feeling was for the South Carolina women’s basketball team to not come out as the victor, it was a mirror into how unrecognizable the Gamecocks looked in Friday’s 77-73 season-ending loss to the Hawkeyes.

The most visible player on the roster, Aliyah Boston, didn’t play most of the first half after two quick fouls. USC’s leading scorer Zia Cooke came SEE HOLLOWAY, 10B

The Masters, as Jim Nantz says, is “a tradition unlike any other,” and that observation will ring true for the next week — for a different reason.

The 87th Masters will be the first event with a large number of players from fledgling LIV Golf competing on the same stage with members of the established PGA Tour, and questions abound.

Will the interactions be civil or resemble a civil war? Will Augusta National officials make the situation more challenging for the LIV gang through pairings for the first two rounds?

Will LIV players be invited for pre-tournament interviews? Will PGA and LIV players be received equally by patrons?

That’s without mentioning the changes to the historic 13th hole or the proposed ball that would limit distance for elite male

players. Throw in Rory McIlroy’s career Grand Slam quest, and there’s Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, their generation’s best two players who arrive dripping with drama The pros take center stage with practice rounds Monday to Wednesday and the competition starts for real on Thursday.

Waiting for answers provides fodder for delicious debates.

PGA TOUR VS. LIV GOLF The topic has been debated ad nauseum: Would the breakaway LIV Tour players be welcome in the major championships?

Augusta National did not alter its qualifications, thus 18 LIV players will be in the field. But allowing them to play does not mean they will be welcome with open arms. Indeed, Masters chairman Fred Ridley noted this in a December statement: “Regrettably, recent actions have SEE 2023 MASTERS, 10B

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AN NFC BATTLE IN PHILLY

AARON RODGERS AND THE PACKERS LOOK TO UPSET THE EAGLES, HIGHLIGHTING SUNDAY’S FULL SLATE OF NFL ACTION. Go to thestate.com/eedition/ xtrafootball.

OH, SNAPPED

South Carolina stuns No. 8 Clemson 31-30 to stop rivalry skid

FIRST PLACE Staff The State

TRAVIS BELL Sideline Carolina

Clemson wide receiver Antonio Williams (0) kneels in dejection as South Carolina players celebrate after recovering Williams’ fumble on a punt return during late fourth-quarter action in Clemson. The Gamecocks sealed the win after the Tigers turnover.

BY CHAPEL FOWLER

cfowler@thestate.com CLEMSON

South Carolina is on an unforgettable two-game tear.

Clemson is all but out of the College Football Playoff.

And coach Shane Beamer’s Gamecocks, after seven long seasons without them, have finally reclaimed those sweet,

sweet, year-long bragging rights that come attached to one of college football’s greatest rivalries.

Clemson receiver Antonio Williams fumbled the ball on a punt return with two minutes left and South Carolina quarterback Spencer Rattler hit receiver Antwane Wells Jr. for a first down on the following possession to run out the clock and secure an instant classic 31-30

victory over No. 8 Clemson in Memorial Stadium.

This is the Gamecocks’ first win against the Tigers since 2013, as well as the first time in school history they’ve won backto-back games against opponents ranked in the AP Top 10.

Standing at 8-4 and 4-4 in the SEC after consecutive wins against Tennessee and Clemson, South Carolina has also won eight games for the first

time since the 2017 season — a stunning turnaround completed mostly on the backs of embattled offensive coordinator Marcus Satterfield’s unit, which was lights out once again on Saturday afternoon.

“We were the feel-good story in college football last week” Beamer said. “But nobody thought we were good enough to win this game. We were the team that just kind of caught

Formula for beating Clemson was unlike other memorable Gamecocks wins

BY JEREMIAH HOLLOWAY

jholloway@thestate.com CLEMSON

Senior defensive lineman Zacch Pickens had to hear about South Carolina’s recent losses to Clemson during his Thanksgiving dinner.

Pickens has family about 20 minutes away from Clemson, a place the Gamecocks hadn’t won since 2012.

“What about those Tigers?”

Pickens heard while back home to Anderson, where he starred at T.L. Hanna High School.

South Carolina (8-4) secured

Very attention grabbing page.

the 31-30 win Saturday — with some of Pickens’ family in attendance at Memorial Stadium.

And the recipe for victory didn’t look like the Gamecocks’ other memorable wins this season.

The team fell into a 14-0 hole in the first quarter, struggling to move the ball offensively. Spencer Rattler was intercepted on the first play of the team’s second drive, and Clemson returned it for a touchdown. Later in the half, he was pressured in his own end zone and the Tigers forced him into a safety.

He completed a 65-yard pass to Juju McDowell on a fourthand-1, then threw his second

interception of the game while in the red zone.

Most of South Carolina’s signature wins this season came from quick starts — like its defensive fumble recovery early against Kentucky and the kick return touchdown to open the game against Texas A&M. The team also struck first against Tennessee last week and led 21-7 after the first quarter.

This time, against Clemson, the Gamecocks had to overcome a nine-point halftime deficit.

“You gotta keep fighting through adversity,” Rattler said.

“We knew there was gonna be adversity in a big rivalry game

like this.”

Rattler’s accuracy in the second half picked up, and he avoided the mistakes he made earlier in the game. His best throw of the day came on a 72-yard completion to wide receiver Antwane Wells, who recorded 131 yards and two touchdowns against the Tigers.

Rattler led the Gamecocks to three scoring drives in the second half, including the possession that ended with Mitch Jeter’s go-ahead field goal.

The USC defense allowed just one touchdown in that same time frame. The Tigers punted the ball five times in the half, and corner-

lightning in a bottle last week, and no way they can come back and do it again.”

At 10-2 and 8-0 in the ACC, Clemson will still play in the ACC championship game against North Carolina next week. But the Tigers, already sitting outside the CFP’s top four teams, will almost certainly miss out on the playoff for a SEE FOOTBALL, 4B

back Marcellas Dial came away with his team-leading third interception of the season.

Dial had a couple of opportunities at a takeaway prior to that moment and helped clinch the victory with the pick.

“Like coach (Shane) Beamer said, we knew they were going to throw us one,” Dial said.

“And the time I got it, too, was very big. It was a great feeling.”

The teams alternated possessions a bit in the game’s final few minutes. Clemson’s last touch was on a punt return, and the Gamecocks forced Tigers freshman Antonio Williams into a fumble.

That turnover essentially sealed Clemson’s fate, but Wells put the game away by converting the final third down of the game.

Rattler, who’s been throwing Wells’ way all season, encourSEE FORMULA, 4B

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Jan Marvin The Daniel Island News

Matt Zabierek The Daniel Island News

16 | ELECTION thedanielislandnews.com

The Daniel Island News ■ October 26 - November 1, 2023

October 26 - November 1, 2023 ■ The Daniel Island News

thedanielislandnews.com

ELECTION | 17

LEARN ABOUT THE MAYORAL CANDIDATES AND THEIR POSITIONS BEFORE YOU VOTE What are two pressing problems facing residents of the Daniel Island and Cainhoy peninsulas and what will you do to solve them?

Compiled by Emma Slaven, Emma@thedanielislandnews.com

EDITOR’S NOTE:

Debra Gammons MikaJ.Gadsden

William Cogswell

Mika Gadsden

Daniel Island residents currently face a pressing issue: the absence of effective leadership from city hall in addressing infrastructure and future planning. This leadership void has led to a range of problems, including traffic gridlock, poorly maintained roads and unfriendly conditions for pedestrians and cyclists.

To rectify this situation, I am committed to adopting a regional perspective on infrastructure planning, prioritizing the needs of Daniel Island residents in our vision for the future. The rising cost of living is a matter of concern for our community, impacting various aspects such as housing, groceries, and fuel prices. As your mayor, I will balance the budget, all the while avoiding any property tax increases. This will be achieved by making our city government run more efficiently, ensuring that the financial benefits are passed on to our taxpayers, allowing them to retain more of their hard-earned money.

I have a number of concerns regarding the Cainhoy development. As with many wetlands, this area is critical when it comes to our ability to combat rising seas, storm surges and maintaining our beautiful wildlife ecosystem that makes our area so special.

Throughout our area, tree cover removal is a much bigger issue than many folks realize when it comes to responding to the climate crisis. An adult tree can absorb 40,000 gallons of water each year, yet we’ve cut down 10,000 acres of trees in the Charleston area over the past 30 years or so, as our flooding issues continued to escalate.

Traffic congestion and overdevelopment are two of many pressing issues. I will (a) add bike lanes and place them within at least one mile of each of our schools; (b) promote bike safety for bicyclists and drivers to share the road; and encourage those with golf carts to use them when traveling on the island. I will promote the stabilization of our natural environment, our marshes, creeks, rivers and trees. Cainhoy is a beautiful area that should not be defaced with overdevelopment. In collaboration with citizens and environmental organizations, I will work to amend our laws to protect our natural resources. Charleston is different. And I love that we are different. Our connection to water and trees runs deep. I will support all efforts to keep our city beautiful and safe that enhances our mental, physical, and spiritual well-being.

PROVIDED

PRO

VIDED

ght, “I to and thou grew red this phowith my family! I swell sha er we William Cog g time on the wat and I’m so glad er ing wat ndin love spe on boats and fish enjoy the kids can up working ton where our rles live in Cha ” like I did.

Mika Gadsden: A book that influenced you: “Ida: A Sword Among Lions”

D PROVIDE

our husband, photo, “My nieta cribed this ing our youngest mons des hold with my Debra Gam nwen Larissa) o (Colin), bration in (Bro ), our niet day cele daughter a (Nouria ), our niet Williams at her birthin October 2021.”

(Jo’zelin n She died abeth Alle years old! aunt Eliz 2021 – 94 February

There are six candidates on the Nov. 7 ballot for mayor of the city of Charleston. The candidates include former state representative and developer William Cogswell, community activist Mika Gadsden, attorney and law professor Debra Gammons, former Democratic Statehouse candidate Clay Middleton, attorney and City Councilman Peter Shahid and current Mayor John Tecklenburg.

The paper shared the candidates’ positions in earlier editions on issues such as flooding, affordable housing, the proposed seawall, tourism, development, as well as online only, and compiled their views into a complete election guide available at thedanielislandnews.com.

New and online only in the guide are questions and answers about their skills and experience, leadership style, and the first issue they will address if elected.

Here, you will find their answers specifically about issues facing the Daniel Island and Cainhoy peninsulas as well as a few questions that give insight into their personalities beyond the issues.

We also asked the candidates to share personal photos of themselves doing something they love together with a description of the photo and why they love the activity.

Learn more about the candidates here and online at thedanielislandnews.com.

Get to know the candidates beyond the issues

Clay Mika Middleton Gadsden Growth and transportation. We can’t continue to build homes without the infrastructure that is needed to support the increase of people, cars, and the need for schools, police and fire, recreation, grocery stores, pedestrian improvements, and other amenities that communities need. It’s really important that we grow smartly and not rush development and sacrifice quality of life and the maintenance of the current area that hasn’t been addressed. Having a city infrastructure coordinator, a community benefits agreement in all development, and proactive collaboration with SCDOT around I-526 and other state roads are a few of what I would do as mayor. Having two city council members representing this area provides for increased communications between Daniel Island and Cainhoy with city hall on planned development, day-to-day livability issues, and other matters. I also see this as an opportunity to have more engagement with the neighborhood association and other community-based organizations.

PeterGadsden Shahid Mika The two most pressing problems are overdevelopment and a lack of city services/facilities. As mayor, I will ensure city officials follow the Daniel Island and Cainhoy master plan. Additionally, city officials must keep up with their promises to provide the necessary services and facilities to maintain its commitment to its community.

John MikaTecklenburg Gadsden Public safety is job one. That’s why I’ve increased our police and fire budgets every year I’ve been mayor and worked to ensure we have the best-paid police and firefighters in the state. Traffic and infrastructure is also a challenge that we are addressing by working closely with local, state and federal partners on major infrastructure projects. Currently, we are replacing the Beresford Creek Bridge and making improvements to the intersection of Fairchild Street and River Landing Drive. Through traffic calming measures and new or improved bike and pedestrian access, we can promote safe and pleasant conditions for non-motorized street users (i.e., pedestrians, children, bicyclists) while maintaining the safe movement of local residential vehicular traffic.

PROVIDED

: A book Clay Middleton you: that influenced Me: In “It Worked For ership” Life and Lead ll.

by Colin Powe : Fugees.

Favorite band hero: Name your Place in My mother. you would Charleston take out of town Sportr’s guests: Lama cian who ing Club. Politi you: inspires an Jim Congressm job: Clyburn. First .

Cutting grass

Peter Shahid said PROVIDED ning and enteri of this photo, “I enjoy runng road races .I morning; it is a solitary activi usually run in the ty with just you the sights and sounds of the and world. It provid opportunity to reflect. Road es an races are fun ings with peopl gathere common intere from diverse background s with a st ence with them. and I enjoy sharing this experi”

PROVIDED

nMayor Teckle g the piano,” s loved playin joy to people “I have alway piano brings me man“Playing the it also helps burg explains e together, and and brings peopl recharge.” age stress and

16 | FEATURE thedanielislandnews.com

T

here’s a buzz around town about the sweet new musical group known as The Honeybees.

The group consists of two local Daniel Island moms, Susan McLure and Kendell Stange. With McLure on guitar and Stange on piano, the group covers a wide variety of artists from Tom Petty to the Indigo Girls to Dolly Parton. These busy bees have been sighted all over town performing their music at local spots, such as The DIME and Waterfront Park.

The duo met while taking lessons from local music teachers, Jake Willis and Val Mackend.

“Music and playing guitar is a therapeutic avenue for me and after the loss of my dad in December 2021, it became even more so,” McLure said. “One day I saw Kendell loading up her piano to play at an event and thought what a great way to enjoy music and give to others. She said ‘we should play together,’ and I thought, why not? …The rest is history.”

For Stange it all started with what she calls a “seed of a prayer.” After working in accounting and raising three boys, Stange wanted to feel the passion she once felt as a gymnast growing up. “I remembered what it felt like to have a passion that you couldn’t get enough of something that you knew you were made for.

And I longed for that again.”

When she started helping her son with his piano lessons she fell in love with the instrument.

“That was three years ago, and the fire is still burning,” she said. “Susan and I have been neighbors and friends for about nine years, and I knew she played the guitar. So last fall, we started to play together. Although it’s been a ton of work, it’s the good kind that fills you up and makes you so grateful for life and friendship.”

The group tossed around names for the band, but after listening to the song Queen Bee

by Taj Mahal they knew the name had to “bee” The Honeybees.

Friendship keeps The Honeybees “bee-lieving” in themselves.

“I am so thankful for Susan. She is salt-of-

The Daniel Island News ■ August 3 - 9, 2023

the earth, just a drop from heaven. We have so much fun together and laugh a lot. She is the queen of harmony and has taught me greatly,” Stange gushed.

McLure is equally grateful for the fruitful relationship and credits Stange with getting the group out of the hive to perform across the Lowcountry. “Kendell doesn’t do anything small. She had equipment and everything you need to play in public.”

McLure says once they overcame the jitters, performing became a joy. “Kendell and I have progressed together, it’s so much fun when we nail a song we’ve been working on forever.

Although I’d rather sing than speak in front of a crowd, I never would’ve done this without Kendell. I was used to playing and singing in my living room. But it was also a great rush. I am proud of what we accomplished.”

The group enjoys connecting with the audience. “What was unexpected to me is how much kids get excited to hear live music and they don’t hold back their free-spirited movements and praise. And when we hit a wrong note, they don’t even notice,” McLure exclaimed.

“I love filling people up with something good, fun, lighthearted, and hopeful. Music is food for the soul and is so powerful. I also love seeing kids dance and run around crazy and free,” Stange said.

“I love filling people up with something good, fun, lighthearted, and hopeful. Music is food for the soul and is so powerful. I also love seeing kids dance and run around crazy and free,” Stange said.

August 3 - 9, 2023 ■ The Daniel Island News

thedanielislandnews.com

The Local Buzz DI duo The Honeybees enjoy sweet musical success MARIE ROCHA-TYGH | marie@thedanielislandnews.com

ALL PHOTOS PROVIDED

Top: Susan McLure on the guitar and Kendell Stange on the piano make up the local band, The Honeybees.

Right: The duo known as The Honeybees enjoys playing music at local favorite, the DIME. Bottom: Honeybee sighting on the JumboTron.

Left: The Honeybees perform at a local venue.

FEATURE | 17

“As a mom, I think it’s important for your kids to see you have your own hobbies and quests,” Susan McLure said. “And it just goes to show, with a little practice or dedication to a hobby or something you love, a nudge from a friend or neighbor, you can form a band at almost 50 years old. I call this my midlife catharsis.”

O

ne of Stange’s favorite stories happened after the duo performed at The DIME. “We struck up a conversation with a woman who just happened to be walking by but stopped in to listen. She recently lost her mom, who happened to love honeybees, and so she had gotten a honeybee tattoo on her arm. She had no idea who we were but liked our music. We told her we were The Honeybees. It was certainly God’s providential handiwork and lifted all our spirits.”

The group enjoys their sweet success, and the example it sets for others. “As a mom, I think it’s important for your kids to see you have your own hobbies and quests. And it just goes to show, with a little practice or dedication to a hobby or something you love, a nudge from a friend or neighbor, you can form a band at almost 50 years old. I call this my midlife catharsis,” McLure joked.

The two families are beyond proud of these musical busy bees. McLure said her family was a little amazed at first, adding, “They have witnessed many practices and gigs and they’ve seen us progress! It brings me great joy to hear them belting some of the songs we play.”

John McLure is the band’s worker bee, helping setting up and moving equipment.

“The best part about seeing Susan and Kendall perform is being part of the show by helping set up and take down the equipment. For only two performers, they have a lot of equipment,” he quipped.

Stange’s family also felt a sting of surprise when the group began performing live. “It was comical the first few times I got dressed up to play a gig to see their facial expressions of bewilderment – like ‘wait, why aren’t you wearing your sweatpants, mom?’ My husband,

PROVIDED

There’s a big buzz surrounding the new musical group, The Honeybees.

Bryan, has been supportive from the very beginning, and thinks we have a great and special thing going on,” she said.

The first time Bryan Stange heard The Honeybees harmonize on stage was at a party on Sullivan’s Island. “I just remember thinking to myself, ‘They are really doing this, and they are doing it really well! They’ve got this!’ I had heard them together so many times in our home. I heard the early struggles with harmonizing. I heard the missed chords. But I also saw all the work that it took to iron all those things out. And I saw them become better daily. Then they took the stage, and it was just great.”

To find out where the band will “bee” playing their sweet sounds next, check out their website at chshoneybees.com.

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FIRST PLACE Matt Zabierek The Daniel Island News

The Daniel Island News ■ December 1 - 7, 2022

December 1 - 7, 2022 ■ The Daniel Island News

Skate the Stadium

thedanielislandnews.com

SCOTT HENDERSON

Daniel Island’s Credit One Stadium is now the center of attention for ice skating.

City of Charleston upcoming holiday events As the holiday season approaches, the City of Charleston’s Office of Cultural Affairs announced its “Holiday Magic in Historic Charleston” calendar of city-produced holiday events and celebrations. Key dates include: ● Dec. 3 and 4, 10 and 11, and 17: Holiday Market extension of the Charleston Farmers Market in Marion Square, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Donations for Toys for Tots will be collected. ● Dec. 4: The Annual Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting, stepping off promptly at 3 p.m. on Broad Street near Colonial Lake, continuing up Broad Street to Meeting Street, where it will travel north on Meeting Street to Calhoun Street near Marion Square. The annual Tree Lighting Ceremony will follow the Holiday Parade in Marion Square with musical programming starting around 5 p.m.

Credit One Stadium to transform into public ice skating rink throughout December

● Dec. 10: The Annual Holiday Parade of Boats in Charleston Harbor

will depart Shem Creek at 6 p.m. The parade features lighted and festive boats that proceed from the Cooper River, through the Charleston Harbor and into the Ashley River. Those wishing to register to participate in the Holiday Parade of Boats should visit charlestonarts. org. Applications are due by 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 7.

● Dec. 11: Holiday Magic on Ann Street, from 3 – 6 p.m. This new event is presented in partnership with the Music Farm, extending the fun of Second Sunday on King Street with a family-friendly block party featuring live music and holiday vendors, with festive refreshments available for purchase.

ELIZABETH BUSH

beth@thedanielislandnews.com

It’s no secret that Christmas in the South doesn’t typically offer the glorious winter wonderland our northern counterparts enjoy.

But grab your scarves and mittens because that is about to change, at least on Daniel Island.

A little holiday magic – better known as “Skate the Stadium” – is coming to Charleston’s island town and will be the only offering of its kind in the Lowcountry this season. The custom built outdoor skating rink will debut at Credit One Stadium during the Daniel Island Holiday Tree Lighting festivities on Friday, Dec. 2.

The annual event is free and open to the public with no capacity restraints.

In addition to ice skating, the month-long event will feature cozy firepits, a pop up café, holiday carolers, a ’90s “Glow Night,” visits with Santa, a performance by Charlton Singleton and the Contemporary Flow Band, and much more. The rink will be open throughout December on Thursdays and Fridays, from 5-10 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., and Sundays from 12 to 5 p.m. (closed Christmas Day and Dec. 30). Tickets are $10 per person and include skate rental and a one-hour skating session.

“Our goal is to create thoughtful, unique experiences that bring joy to the communities we serve,” said Bob Moran, president of Charleston Tennis. “By building an outdoor skating rink for the holidays we hope to spread joy and create another way for people to engage in a new holiday tradition that encourages movement and social connection.”

In addition to the opening of the rink, the Daniel Island Tree Lighting will feature musical performances by the Charleston Concert Band and carolers, fun photo ops, as well as kids’ activi-

FEATURE | 21

The “Skate the Stadium” rink is slightly larger than a tennis court at 77-feet-long and 51-feet-wide.

ties.

“The Daniel Island Community Fund and Property Owners Association team are excited to join efforts with our friends at Credit One for the Annual Daniel Island Holiday Tree Lighting,” said Lisa Avant, associate community manager for the Daniel Island

SCOTT HENDERSON

POA. “By joining with Credit One to host the event at their amazing facility and stadium, the event will be even bigger and better this year!.. As we kick off the holiday season with our traditional tree lighting event, all of these new fun activities and entertainment will make our island even more festive.”

A variety of food and beverages will also be available for purchase during the “Skate the Stadium” festivities, including cookie samplers, s’mores kits, cinnamon sugar pretzels, hot cocoa and cider, and seasonal beer and specialty cocktails.

“I think it’s just gonna be a feel-good amazing family event,” Moran added. “This is year one, but we hope for this to be an annual event!”

The “Skate the Stadium” rink is slightly larger than a tennis court at 77-feet by 51-feet.

Skaters can wear regular skates (included in rental), but special devices will also be offered for those not so steady on their feet.

Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.

Credit One Stadium is also a designated drop off site for the Marines Toys for Tots Foundation. Anyone bringing a toy to donate will get $2 off their skating session.

As of Nov. 29, more than 4,600 skating session reservations had been made. Although all sessions appeared to be sold out on the event website on Tuesday, organizers encouraged those interested to check back regularly to see if additional tickets become available.

Non-skaters can enter the stadium area for free. For ticket information and event details, visit creditonestadium.com/skatethe-stadium.

● Dec. 18: Holiday Magic in Historic Charleston is also a partner in promoting and producing Chanukah in the Square, an initiative of the Yaschik/Arnold Jewish Studies Program at the College of Charleston and Chabad of Charleston and the Lowcountry. This festive celebration, which features live music, arts and crafts and traditional seasonal food, starts at 4 p.m. and culminates with the lighting of a menorah at dusk.

All events are free to attend. For more information visit charlestonarts.org or call 843-724-7305.

Events on the Ice SKATE THE STADIUM! Opens Dec. 2 at 5 p.m.

Daniel Island Tree Lighting - 6 p.m.

Credit One Stadium Thursdays & Fridays, 5 -10 p.m.

Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Sundays, 12 – 5 p.m.

(Closed Christmas Day and Dec. 30)

Holiday Carolers Thursdays, Dec. 8, 15, 22 5:30 to 6 p.m.

Ladies Night/Bubbles on Ice Thurs., Dec. 8, 7-10 p.m. ’90s Glow Night Sat, Dec. 10, 7-10 p.m.

Jazz Night & Bourbon Tasting Thurs., Dec. 15, 7-10 p.m.

Visit with Santa!

Sun., Dec.18, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Congrats on this creative page layout! The use of graphic for a background was a big factor in edging out the other submissions. The photo of the stadium would catch readers eyes, and the story placed in the boxes was clean.

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Natasha Radin Greenville Journal

Scott Suchy Charleston City Paper Cuisine

NEWS | NEED TO KNOW

Greenville Zoo’s farmyard exhibit to receive $2.9M upgrade

A la carte

n story by MEGAN FITZGERALD | renderings by WDM ARCHITECTS

Couple behind Kwei Fei launches new concept, Beautiful South

POTENTIAL FARMYARD ANIMALS IN THE

1

UPGRADED EXHIBIT

What’s new

Charleston Custard & Candy Co. opened Aug. 31 at 251 East Bay St., serving house-made frozen custard along with classic candies.

What’s happening

By Chloe Hogan

Zebu

2

Z

oos have always offered an up-close opportunity to connect with wildlife and learn about different animal species, but now the Greenville Zoo is getting animal lovers an even closer look.

To provide unique animal-contact experiences and more educational opportunities with farm animals, the Greenville Zoo plans to expand its farmyard exhibit in the upcoming years.

The newly designed farmyard includes three new barns, outdoor pastures, an indoor event space, animal-contact zones and educational-program areas.

“We’re thinking the first barn is going to be more of a barn owl exhibit and then the large barn will be a holding space and contact area for the larger animals,” said Lydia Thomas, the Greenville Zoo Foundation executive director. “Then the third barn, we are hoping to do a Flemish rabbit village or holding space.”

One reason for the farmyard expansion project is to help the zoo maintain its Association of Zoos and Aquariums accreditation, which Thomas considers the gold standard for zoos.

Lindsay Tucker, communications and development manager for the Greenville Zoo Foundation, explained the upgrade also allows the zoo to expand its collection of farmyard animals and gives them more space within the exhibit.

Besides the basic animals Old MacDonald had on his farm, the zoo hopes to showcase other unique species found on farms around the world including mini donkeys, turkeys, alpacas and more. The zoo currently has African pygmy goats and kunekune pigs at the exhibit.

“Each animal will represent a different part of the world

from India-Asia

Mini Donkey from Europe

3

Alpaca

David Schuttenberg and Tina Heath-Schuttenberg, the team behind James Island’s Kwei Fei, are known for bringing the fiery flavors of China’s Sichuan Province to the Lowcountry.

In August, they launched their second project downtown on Columbus Street, Beautiful South, which focuses on cusine from southeastern China.

The warehouse space that Beautiful South calls home is decorated in shades of blue. A gorgeous bar with shining navy tiles takes center stage while ceramic art pieces in white and cobalt nod to Chinese tradition and depict contemporary themes.

A commissioned work by the Florida-based ceramic artist Catalina Cheng, for example, features a blue-and-white painted tiger with a speech bubble that reads, “The future is gay.”

Most Beautiful South diners will sit at tables with banquette seating — Heath-Schuttenberg hopes folks will “tuck in to their table and not go anywhere for a couple of hours because they’re just having so much fun.” She used luxe velour and tweed fabrics on the back of the seating “so people feel like they’re being spoiled a bit,” she said.

“I wanted the space to be sexy. I wanted it to be different from something that you have seen in town.”

Low-hanging fixtures above the tables spotlight dishes, an effort to keep diners feeling beautiful in dim light and focused on the textures and colors in front of them.

“When you get the food from David and his team, it all comes

and provide a unique look at the dependence between animals and humans,” Thomas said.

FUNDRAISING FOR FARMYARD

Before renovations can begin on the farmyard, the Greenville Zoo Foundation must raise the funds needed to cover the estimated $2.895 million project. Tucker said they are looking at one to two years until the foundation is able to raise enough money for the project.

As the nonprofit arm of the Greenville Zoo, the foundation helps raise funds for the zoo’s capital projects and improvements. Tucker explained that the zoo, which is owned by the city, works as an enterprise fund to cover operating costs, but rarely has extra money to invest in projects.

“Donations are how we make our zoo better,” Tucker said. “(The farmyard expansion) will be the largest project actually to fund since that last capital campaign (for Zoo 2000).”

Thomas explained that the farmyard project would be funded by a mixture of donations and state grant money.

More than $100,000 in donations was raised at the foundations’ Green Tie Gala hosted in April and $500,000 from the state grant the zoo received in 2022 is dedicated to the farmyard project.

“We do have sponsorships available and naming opportunities available (for the exhibit),” Thomas said. “We couldn’t have (this exhibit) if it wasn’t for donations.”

For more information on the farmyard expansion project, visit https://greenvillezoofoundation.org/page18146.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

from South America

4

5

Turkey

from North America 8 GREENVILLEJOURNAL.COM // MAY 5

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Flemish Rabbit

from Belgium-Europe

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African Pygmy Goat from Africa

Kunekune Pig

from New Zealand

Cuisine 09.08.2023

FARM YARD-REPULL

What’s going on in the Charleston cuisine scene? Send us your food tips! food@charlestoncitypaper.com

20

Photos by Rūta Smith

Kwei Fei owners David Schuttenberg and Tina HeathSchuttenberg opened Beautiful South, which is centered around cuisine from southeastern China

The menu features Chinese-American takeout classics like General Tso’s chicken, beef and broccoli, plus lots of vegan options and a unique cocktail menu

City Paper’s 2023 Burger Throwdown voting is now open. We encourage you to vote through Sept. 20 to crown the King of Burgers in six categories from participating Charleston-area eateries.

We’ll announce winners in our Sept. 29 issue. To vote, go to: vote.charlestoncitypaper.com.

Beat the heat with Frozen Fridays at The Watch Rooftop Kitchen and Spirits. Enjoy $10 frozen cocktails all day every Friday.

Mercantile & Mash will host a TikTok Baking Trends Class from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sept 17. Mercantile & Mash’s pastry team will instruct the class in how to bake viral TikTok recipes such as pink cinnamon rolls, s’mores chocolate chip cookies and open-faced savory pop tarts.

The classes are designed for intermediate level bakers. All ages are welcome, however it is recommended that students are aged 21 and older as alcoholic beverages will be offered throughout class. Tickets are $75 per person and available through eventbrite.com Join Felix Cocktails et Cuisine in celebrating Negroni Week Sept. 18-24.

Cocktail specials will be available such as Negroni Blancs, Elephant in the Room and a Cherrywood Smoked Negroni. Hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Mondays through Fridays and 10 a.m. to 1 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays. —Hillary Reaves Be the first to know. Read the Cuisine section at charlestoncitypaper.com.

INSIDE PAGE DESIGN

NEWS | NEED TO KNOW

Nicholtown native Chandra Dillard’s 20+ years of public service

WEEKLY OVER 6,500 DIVISION

n story by STEPHANIE TROTTER | photo by TARA ASHTON

T

FIRST PLACE Laura Allshouse Greenville Journal

ime is tight. Chandra Dillard’s racing between obligations in the Upstate and a General Assembly session that’s starting in Columbia.

Thoughts of providing a quality home for everyone are top of mind, whether the District 23 South Carolina representative is at the Statehouse, or her family house. “I’ve been in public service for over 20 years,” the Nicholtown native shares. “Even when I was on [Greenville] City Council, I was still in the affordable housing lane. That’s my passion. Long before it became sexy and a dire need, I’ve been working on this journey.”

Recently, that journey includes personal and professional projects. One year ago, the Greenville Journal featured Dillard’s treasured opportunity to fix up the house her grandfather built, on land her great-grandfather earned in Nicholtown. The Halls were some of the earliest Black families to settle on the former plantation property, who created a community that thrived for more than a century. She admits, “I am fortunate and I do feel incredibly blessed to be able to maintain and preserve this homestead in my family’s legacy. Not all are able to do that.”

Yet right when the project should have hit a final punch list, a December deep freeze froze crews in the kitchen. “Oh my goodness, I hate to even talk about it!” she says. “I came here December 27th and heard a waterfall. Pipes had busted everywhere and the whole house has to be redone.” She thought about challenges her grandfather Sumler Hall might have experienced. “I like to think he had a better time just putting up the house with his friends,” she shares with a chuckle.

“There’s going to be a process, a revelation at the end of this.”

In government work, she’s learned revelations take patience, especially when it comes to putting quality roofs over peoples’ heads. With the 125th General Assembly now underway, she clutches a hammer in one hand, pen in the other.

“Every session, I’ve been able to get bills passed that give housing authorities and their partners tax credits or tax exemptions, if they team together on affordable housing,” she explains. “When we see what other communities do, we work at the state level to make it happen. It takes for-profit, non-profit, state government, all of us deliberately collaborating on this issue.”

She’s pleased with old and new collaborations, including the HOPE VI Project, that have renovated senior housing and birthed new life to Arcadia Hills and Jessie Jackson Townhomes, and created Heritage Hills, among other sites. “We’ve put 350 people back into the community,” she says.

“Habitat just put up its 400th home. I’ve supported bills that have been part of inclusionary zoning. That’s an important tool in the tool box.”

While builders reach for tools to repair her family place, she reaches for tools to preserve the life she lived growing in Nicholtown, sandwiched between the Greenville Zoo and McAllister Square. “The market and the changes that are happening with people moving here, we need to move at a faster pace,” she pleads. “This needs to be a priority issue and it’s going to take all of us working together.” Her hope is as solid as a two-by-four pine frame. “Nicholtown is like every other community that used to be African American,” she reveals. “There’s an influx of different demographics and people and diversity. It’s changed a lot, but the spirit of Nicholtown has not.

Everybody is a neighbor. Everybody is welcome and we are about each other.”

PRESENTED BY

There’s an influx of different demographics and people and diversity. It’s changed a lot, but the spirit of Nicholtown has not. Everybody is a neighbor. Everybody is welcome and we are about each other.

- Chandra Dillard

VIDEO AVAILABLE ONLINE

WWW.GREENVILLEJOURNAL.COM

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Clean layout, attractive to the eye, color coordinated graphics and quote marks to match the red coat are a bonus. Pull-out quote in open space and video graphic add to the overall appearance. Good use of space. Great job of laying out inside page.

INSIDE PAGE DESIGN

ALL DAILY DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Rhonda Barrick The Sumter Item

Melanie Smith The Sumter Item

INSIDE PAGE DESIGN

ALL DAILY DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Richard Whiting Index-Journal Unique way to bring awareness to the topic of not offending someone. I loved this design idea.

PHOTO PAGE DESIGN

OPEN DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Cary Howard Lexington County Chronicle

Laura Allshouse Greenville Journal FEATURED | NEED TO KNOW

A COOL PLACE TO WORK

NEED TO KNOW | FEATURED

THIS WEEK ON THE CHRONICLE WEBSITE

Public, officials question impact of proposed lake resort READ AT LEXINGTONCHRONICLE.COM

THURSDAY, JUNE 8, 2023 | FREE, Seriously Take One | A Sample of What You Will Find Every Week in the Lexington County Chronicle

BLACK

HISTORY IN PHOTOS

SEASON REVEAL

■ compiled by STAFF

T More than 2,400 people, departments from 7 states celebrate fallen Irmo firefighter WORDS BY JORDAN LAWRENCE AND KAILEE KOKES I PHOTOS BY JORDAN LAWRENCE news@lexingtonchronicle.com Firefighters from at least seven states along with various politicians, first responders, family and community members gathered May 31 to celebrate the life of an Irmo firefighter who died in the line of duty.

The funeral for James Michael Muller, 25, was held at Riverland Hills Baptist Church, with those not in the fire service asked to wear bright colors in tribute to Muller and his family. Muller was killed responding to what officials called a massive multi-alarm fire at the Tropical Ridge apartment complex in Columbia on May 26.

Irmo Fire

Chief Mike Sonefeld said in a statement that Muller’s death was the result of “a structural collapse during fire suppression efforts” at the scene.

Muller’s body was brought to the church by Irmo Fire Engine 171, which was his truck, arriving under an American flag held aloft between two other Irmo fire engines. He was carried into the sanctuary through a “sea of blue,” with lines of blue-shirted firefighters lined up to give him the traditional honor.

The service was well-attended, with crowds spilling out of both of the main sanctuary where the event was held and a second sanctuary where overflow attendees could watch on video. The two rooms both hold 1,200 people. The ceremony was also live-streamed.

A spokesperson said more than 75 fire trucks

were present at the funeral, and firefighters representing departments in South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, New York, Maryland, Florida and Ohio were in attendance. S.C. State Fire’s Task Force 1, which is hard at work determining the cause of the Tropical Ridge Fire, paused their efforts to be present as Muller’s body was ushered into the church.

Also at the funeral was Gov. Henry McMaster, who sat with Muller’s family, along with at least three state representatives.

“I’m standing in front of you at the weakest moment of my entire life.

And that’s OK. Because you’re doing the same thing,” Sonefeld told those in attendance.

“We’re here for each other. That’s a big part.

It’s OK to be weak right now.”

hroughout the 1940s, ’50s and ’60s, America was growing and changing. During the earlier part of these decades, World War II and the Korean War were an international focus, while the Civil Rights Movement grew domestically. However, activism is only part of Black history and this time period is also filled with community moments such as visiting the library's bookmobile, playing baseball and gathering together within groups such as a sorority.

Celebrating 5 Years Clockwise from top left: Harvey B. Gantt, a Charleston native, was Clemson University’s first African American student. In 1963, he was admitted to Clemson’s school of architecture. photo courtesy of Upcountry History Museum, James G. Wilson Collection Protesters participating at lunch counter sitins at different Greenville stores, including Woolworth’s department store, S.H. Kress & Co., W.T. Grant & Co., and H.L. Green & Co., were arrested after store managers called the police and the protesters refused to leave. photo courtesy of Upcountry History Museum, James G. Wilson Collection African American Slater baseball team. photo courtesy of Slater Hall Citizens' Committee collection A. J. Whittenberg. photo courtesy of USC Center for Civil Rights History and Research Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority; African American Greek letter societies; Greenville, 1950. photo courtesy of the archives of Epsilon Tau Omega Chapter, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority This photo shows an African American bookmobile stop. There were three African American bookmobile stops along with a branch located at the Phillis Wheatley Center, 1941-43. photo courtesy of Greenville County Library Bookmobiles 1920s-1960s box 14H in South Carolina Room Archives, Greenville County Library System.

2023 2024 Feb. 24, 2023 7:30pm Enter through our new lobby

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PRESENTED BY

1 6 GREENVILLEJOURNAL.COM // FEBRUARY 17

FEBRUARY 17 // GREENVILLEJOURNAL.COM

17

PHOTO PAGE DESIGN

OPEN DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Melanie Smith The Sumter Item Pictures tell stories which is why photo pages can leave an impact. What stood out to me on this photo page over the others was the variety of angles in the photos and utilized in the page design. From the bottom photo of the ‘selfie’ to the hand raising crowd photo, these pictures capture the event nicely. Cutlines help depict what is happening in each photo assisting the readers in telling the story. Implementing the QR code is a great idea to add to photo pages where coverage can go beyond the page of a publication.

NEWS PHOTO

ASSOCIATE & INDIVIDUAL MEMBER DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Gwinn Davis

Gwinn Davis

NEWS PHOTO

ASSOCIATE & INDIVIDUAL MEMBER DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Gwinn Davis I can feel the emotion in this photo.

SPOT NEWS PHOTO

WEEKLY UNDER 3,000 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Greg Elgin News-Chronicle

Jonathan Vickery The People-Sentinel

SPOT NEWS PHOTO

WEEKLY UNDER 3,000 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Richard Kelly News-Chronicle The angle of the water spraying into the flames, as well as the flood lights from the truck balancing the flames are what makes this shot interesting.

SPOT NEWS PHOTO

WEEKLY 3,000-6,500 & OVER 6,500 DIVISIONS COMBINED

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

William Buchheit The Greer Citizen

Delayna Earley The Island News

SPOT NEWS PHOTO

WEEKLY 3,000-6,500 & OVER 6,500 DIVISIONS COMBINED

FIRST PLACE Delayna Earley The Island News Without a doubt, this takes first place. There are so many emotions happening, and lots of different energy levels. The bubbles are light and fun, but the subject seems to be taking them very seriously.

Purple/pink in various shades in fore and background add visual interest. Everyone in the picture is doing something different, and it makes you step into the story. Highly engaging photograph!

SPOT NEWS PHOTO

DAILY UNDER 7,000 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Matthew Christian Aiken Standard

Ken Ruinard Independent Mail

SPOT NEWS PHOTO

DAILY UNDER 7,000 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Matthew Robertson Morning News Great job capturing the action, filling the frame, and getting faces. The pictures tells the story.

SPOT NEWS PHOTO

DAILY 7,500-15,500 & OVER 15,500 DIVISIONS COMBINED

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Gavin McIntyre The Post and Courier

Alex C. Hicks Jr. Herald-Journal

SPOT NEWS PHOTO

DAILY 7,500-15,500 & OVER 15,500 DIVISIONS COMBINED

FIRST PLACE Jason Lee The Sun News The utter devastation of the building behind Joey Godwin is mirrored in his face and body language in a way that could not be described in words. Great depth and interesting angles, yet his despair is center stage.

GENERAL NEWS PHOTO

WEEKLY UNDER 3,000 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Travis Jenkins The News & Reporter

Jordan Lawrence Lexington County Chronicle

GENERAL NEWS PHOTO

WEEKLY UNDER 3,000 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Michael Lollis The Journal, Williamston Wow! Excellent timing on the photographers part! Nice and crisp, clear, and the colors are true! Trevor should be very pleased with this image!

GENERAL NEWS PHOTO

WEEKLY 3,000-6,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Nicole Ziege The Post and Courier Myrtle Beach/Georgetown Times

Nicole Ziege The Post and Courier Myrtle Beach/Georgetown Times

GENERAL NEWS PHOTO

WEEKLY 3,000-6,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Nicole Ziege The Post and Courier Myrtle Beach/Georgetown Times It’s not always that a candid moment conveys the tone and emotion of all of its participants, but this one does. It’s an outstanding shot that will immediately draw readers into the story and tells them a great deal before they have even read the lead.

GENERAL NEWS PHOTO

WEEKLY OVER 6,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Delayna Earley The Island News

Robert Timmons Fort Jackson Leader

GENERAL NEWS PHOTO

WEEKLY OVER 6,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Samantha Winn The Post and Courier North Augusta/The Star Powerful photo captures a candid glimpse of the subject of a mural. This photo advances the story with skill.

GENERAL NEWS PHOTO

DAILY UNDER 7,000 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Ken Ruinard Independent Mail

Matthew Robertson Morning News

GENERAL NEWS PHOTO

DAILY UNDER 7,000 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Matthew Robertson Morning News Nice composition. The expressions of the three gentlemen tell the story of pride and appreciation.

GENERAL NEWS PHOTO

DAILY 7,000-15,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Jason Lee The Sun News

Jason Lee The Sun News

GENERAL NEWS PHOTO

DAILY 7,000-15,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Alex C. Hicks Jr. Herald-Journal Normally I don’t put much value into pictures of posters at protests. However, this photo is not that. It’s a portrait. The depth of emotion in the man’s eyes caught my heart immediately. In terms of quality and impact of image, this photo stood out.

GENERAL NEWS PHOTO

DAILY OVER 15,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Andrew J. Whitaker The Post and Courier

Gavin McIntyre The Post and Courier

GENERAL NEWS PHOTO

DAILY OVER 15,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Grace Beahm Alford The Post and Courier A stunning, yet heart-wrenching shot of commitment to one’s comrade. Seeing the scene through the bars adds a dramatic element.

FEATURE PHOTO

ASSOCIATE & INDIVIDUAL MEMBER DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Tom Poland

Gwinn Davis

FEATURE PHOTO

ASSOCIATE & INDIVIDUAL MEMBER DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Gwinn Davis

You can see the emotions on the subject’s face clearly, and he is in sharp detail, with a blur of motion which give the photo some energy. The content is visually interesting and nicely framed, with leading lines to draw your eye further in.

FEATURE PHOTO

WEEKLY UNDER 3,000 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Alexandra Whitbeck The People-Sentinel

Simeon Little Pageland Progressive-Journal

FEATURE PHOTO

WEEKLY UNDER 3,000 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Michael Lollis The Journal, Williamston What a great photo! I love the color, composition, and childhood innocence that comes through so clearly in this picture. Perfect timing!

FEATURE PHOTO

WEEKLY 3,000-6,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Martin L. Cahn Chronicle-Independent

Martin L. Cahn Chronicle-Independent

FEATURE PHOTO

WEEKLY 3,000-6,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Martin L. Cahn Chronicle-Independent Nice photo with the smoke going in all directions.

FEATURE PHOTO

WEEKLY OVER 6,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Delayna Earley The Island News

Jacqueline Hough The Link

FEATURE PHOTO

WEEKLY OVER 6,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Delayna Earley The Island News Striking image with the clouds in the background and the shar focus of the planes. Well done!

FEATURE PHOTO

DAILY UNDER 7,000 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Bill Bengtson Aiken Standard

Ken Ruinard Independent Mail

FEATURE PHOTO

DAILY UNDER 7,000 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Bill Bengtson Aiken Standard Great job of capturing the moment. The lady’s expression draws you in and everyone is looking at her, great timing. The pic draws me in and makes me want to know more. I really like your composition with your main subject in the bottom third.

FEATURE PHOTO

DAILY 7,000-15,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Jason Lee The Sun News

Jason Lee The Sun News

FEATURE PHOTO DAILY 7,500-15,500

FIRST PLACE Caleb Gilbert The Journal, Seneca News photography can be difficult because capturing emotions while helping tell a story can be so difficult. Being in the right place at the right time is so important. This photographer did a great job of capturing the sheer joy of the little girl in this photo. You can feel her emotions through this photo and the lighting could have made it even more difficult, but the photographer did a wonderful job making this shot. Excellent work.

FEATURE PHOTO

DAILY OVER 15,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Andrew J. Whitaker The Post and Courier

Gavin McIntyre The Post and Courier

FEATURE PHOTO

DAILY OVER 15,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Henry Taylor The Post and Courier The contrast, the detail, the composition, the access, this is a GREAT shot. Surgical photos have the natural blessing of dramatic light but what makes this stand out is the arrangement of hands around the patient’s face and the detail in and around his mouth. I imagine that a clean shot in such a confined, crowded space was not easy. Great job.

SPORTS PHOTO

ASSOCIATE & INDIVIDUAL MEMBER DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Gwinn Davis

Gwinn Davis

SPORTS PHOTO

ASSOCIATE & INDIVIDUAL MEMBER DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Tom Priddy Perfect Light, focus, angle, grip on the ball and facial expression – all capture the intensity of a baseball pitcher facing down a batter. A classic sports photo.

SPORTS ACTION PHOTO

WEEKLY UNDER 3,000 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Michael Lollis News-Chronicle

Michael Lollis The Journal, Williamston

SPORTS ACTION PHOTO

WEEKLY UNDER 3,000 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Michael Lollis The Journal, Williamston Great timing and great shot of basketball player battling beneath the rim. Captures “the thrill of victory. The agony of defeat.” The emotion on her face tells readers how hard she is working to win this game. Faces tell the story and this face says everything. Well done. These sort of photos remind your readers why newspapers continue to play an important role in their daily lives.

SPORTS ACTION PHOTO

WEEKLY 3,000-6,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Pete Cochran Union County News

Bruce Cook Union County News

SPORTS ACTION PHOTO

WEEKLY 3,000-6,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Doug Pinkerton The Daniel Island News Sharp photo, well cropped, caught at a good moment to create an interesting visual.

SPORTS ACTION PHOTO

WEEKLY OVER 6,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Bob Sofaly The Island News

Roger Lee The Summerville Journal Scene

SPORTS ACTION PHOTO

WEEKLY OVER 6,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Bob Sofaly The Island News Soccer head shots are always good, but it’s rare to catch the faces of three players like this battling for the ball.

Cropped perfectly, well focused, and timed to catch the action at just the right time.

SPORTS ACTION PHOTO

DAILY UNDER 7,000 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Ken Ruinard Independent Mail

Kyle Dawson Aiken Standard

SPORTS ACTION PHOTO

DAILY UNDER 7,000 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Ken Ruinard Independent Mail This photo stood out in a category filled with great entries. Perfect timing. Loved the framing with the coach in the background.

SPORTS ACTION PHOTO

DAILY 7,000-15,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Jason Lee The Sun News

Caleb Gilbert The Journal, Seneca

SPORTS ACTION PHOTO

DAILY 7,000-15,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Caleb Gilbert The Journal, Seneca Make you say ‘wow.’ Great perspective.

SPORTS ACTION PHOTO

DAILY OVER 15,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Jeff Blake The State

McKenzie Lange Greenville News

SPORTS ACTION PHOTO DAILY OVER 15,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Grace Beahm Alford The Post and Courier Excellent action shot by Grace Beahm in an uber competitive category. Great detail. Stood out from the many football/basketball entries.

SPORTS FEATURE PHOTO

WEEKLY UNDER 3,000 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Thomas Hammond Lexington County Chronicle

Thomas Hammond Lexington County Chronicle

SPORTS FEATURE PHOTO

WEEKLY UNDER 3,000 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Donna Miley The People-Sentinel Good kids and good sportsmanship caught on camera is so precious.

SPORTS FEATURE PHOTO

WEEKLY 3,000-6,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Chris Sokoloski Coastal Observer

Bruce Cook Union County News

SPORTS FEATURE PHOTO

WEEKLY 3,000-6,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Charles Swenson Coastal Observer This picture automatically put a smile on my face. Awesome shot. Great framing. Perfect lighting.

Any publisher would be happy to print this photo in their newspaper.

SPORTS FEATURE PHOTO

WEEKLY OVER 6,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Bob Sofaly The Island News

Samantha Winn The Post and Courier North Augusta/The Star

SPORTS FEATURE PHOTO

WEEKLY OVER 6,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Roger Lee The Summerville Journal Scene Great action as the picture tells us the story as it should. Great eye and composition.

SPORTS FEATURE PHOTO

DAILY UNDER 7,000 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Kyle Dawson Aiken Standard

Adam Flash The Sumter Item

SPORTS FEATURE PHOTO

DAILY UNDER 7,000 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Ken Ruinard Independent Mail This really doesn’t need a caption, the entire story told in just the visual. Excellent emotion captured.

SPORTS FEATURE PHOTO

DAILY 7,000-15,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Jason Lee The Sun News

Alex C. Hicks Jr. Herald-Journal

SPORTS FEATURE PHOTO

DAILY 7,000-15,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Alex C. Hicks Jr. Herald-Journal Fantastic image. The good and the bad in one shot. Amazing. There is no need for a story as the photo really says it all.

SPORTS FEATURE PHOTO

DAILY OVER 15,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Tracy Glantz The State

Andrew J. Whitaker The Post and Courier

SPORTS FEATURE PHOTO

DAILY OVER 15,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Sam Wolfe The State Amazing emotion, a photo that can tell a lot of stories all in one photo.

PERSONALITY PHOTOGRAPH OR PORTRAIT

WEEKLY UNDER 3,000 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Brian Garner The News & Reporter

Alexandra Whitbeck The People-Sentinel

PERSONALITY PHOTOGRAPH OR PORTRAIT

WEEKLY UNDER 3,000 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Brian Garner The News & Reporter You did a nice job of capturing the subject’s concentration! You have a good balance of subject and the piece he is working on.

PERSONALITY PHOTOGRAPH OR PORTRAIT

WEEKLY 3,000-6,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Brandon Hunter The Lancaster News

Doug Pinkerton The Daniel Island News

PERSONALITY PHOTOGRAPH OR PORTRAIT

WEEKLY 3,000-6,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Charles Swenson Coastal Observer Interesting lighting and composure. Nice and sharp shot.

PERSONALITY PHOTOGRAPH OR PORTRAIT

WEEKLY OVER 6,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Delayna Earley The Island News

Delayna Earley The Island News

PERSONALITY PHOTOGRAPH OR PORTRAIT

WEEKLY OVER 6,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Rūta Smith Charleston City Paper This photo jumps out as the best of this category. The colors, exposure, and cropping are perfect.

PERSONALITY PHOTOGRAPH OR PORTRAIT

DAILY UNDER 7,000 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Ken Ruinard Independent Mail

Ken Ruinard Independent Mail

PERSONALITY PHOTOGRAPH OR PORTRAIT

DAILY UNDER 7,000 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Ken Ruinard Independent Mail Nicely framed portrait, helps tell the story.

PERSONALITY PHOTOGRAPH OR PORTRAIT

DAILY 7,000-15,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Alex C. Hicks Jr. Herald-Journal

Jason Lee The Sun News

PERSONALITY PHOTOGRAPH OR PORTRAIT

DAILY 7,000-15,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Alex C. Hicks Jr. Herald-Journal Nice capture of proud men in a proud moment.

PERSONALITY PHOTOGRAPH OR PORTRAIT

DAILY OVER 15,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Laura Bilson The Post and Courier

Laura Bilson The Post and Courier

PERSONALITY PHOTOGRAPH OR PORTRAIT

DAILY OVER 15,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Henry Taylor The Post and Courier What I am drawn to in this portrait are the contrasting emotions. Riley looks tense, possibly even angry, but his wife radiates joy. In terms of a portrait/personality entry, I feel like I have a sense of their dynamic as well as their story. Also, the initial light draws me to Riley’s face first, then his wife. The visual priority cues carry my eye through the frame. Very, very well done.

Wednesday, december 21, 2022 • VOLUme 19, IssUe 49

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Six Mile Creek Road, Indian Land.

Holiday closures: • Lancaster County Veterans Affairs office closed The two departments cover tive usewill ofbe tax money,” said departments could rely solely Dec.Dar 23-27 and Player, Jan. 2 for the a combined 40,000 residents ren Lancaster on volunteers. holidays. in Indian Land and both fire County Fire Rescue director.

“The volunteer par ticipaThe two departments tive of taxgrows, money,” said departments could offices district boards supporcover t the • Lancaster Asuse theCounty area so have tion has gotten lessrely andsolely less Wednesday, December 21, 2022 CAROLINA GATEWAY A1 amerger. combined 40,000 residents Dar ren departments, Player, Lancaster on volunteers. will be closed Dec. 23-27 for the fire but the PAGE A5 Fire Rescue director. in “We Indian Land and both fire County “The volunteer par ticipaA WEEKLY PUBLICATION COVERING NORTHERN LANCASTER COUNTY: INDIAN LAND • FORT MILL • SUN CITY CAROLINA LAKES • VAN WYCK Christmas and Jan. 2 for New SEE MERGE/PAGE A6 think it is a more effec- days are gone when the fire district boards suppor t the Year’s. As the area grows, so have tion has gotten less and less merger. theWyck fire Planning departments, but the Van SEE MERGE/PAGE A6 “We think it is a more effecdays are 7gone when Commission: p.m. Dec. 28 atthe fire Photos by Rick Johnson Van Wyck Community Center,

BY HALEY JONES The Rev. Timothy Espar, pastor of Van Wyck United Methodist Church, lights one of the first HJONES@THELANCASTERNEWS.COM 5036 Old Hickory Road, Van candles in front of the Van Wyck post office during the Lighting of the Way on Dec. 11.

Wyck.

Van Wyck Town Council Lancaster County Council: unanimously approved the Organizational meeting at second and final reading 6 p.m. Jan. 3 at the Lancaster of the town’s new Unified County Administration Development Ordinance Building, 101 N. Main St., (UDO) on Dec. 5.

Lancaster.

The new UDO does not www.carolinagatewayonline.com include a heavy industrial Lancaster County classification, so it changes Planning Commission Wednesday, december 21, 2022 • VOLUme 19, IssUe 49 PAGE A8 the zoning of certain parwork session: 5 p.m. Jan. cels from heavy industrial 5 at the Lancaster County ONLINE to light industrial.

Administration Building, 101 Cur rent business uses N. Main St., Lancaster. have been grandfathered Lancaster County Fire in, meaning that specific Commission: 7 p.m. Jan. 5 at business operations will the Emergency Operations not be affected, even if the Center, 111 Covenant Place, land is sold to another busiLancaster.

IL native celebrates book release

Van Wyck residents confused by zoning changes

THIRD PLACE

UDO UDO issues VAN WYCK LIGHTS THE WAY issues showcase showcase distrust in Santa arrives via distrust in leadership See ILHSVan basketball Wyck and wrestling reports on website VW Christmas Parade leadership

SECOND PLACE

Rick Kailee Kokes IL fireJohnson departments looking to merge VAN WYCK LIGHTS THE WAY Gateway Carolina Lexington County Chronicle VAN WYCK LIGHTS THE WAY Photos by Rick Johnson

The Rev. Timothy Espar, pastor of Van Wyck United Methodist Church, lights one of the first candles in front of the Van Wyck post office during the Lighting of the Way on Dec. 11.

Photos by Rick Johnson

BY MAC BANKS crIme rePOrT

The Rev. Timothy Espar, pastor of Van Wyck United Methodist Church, lights one of the first MBANKS@THELANCASTERNEWS.COM candles in front of the Van Wyck post office during the Lighting of the Way on Dec. 11.

Twofollowing fire depar The reporttments is from in theLancaster Panhandle areSheriff’s looking to the County become one.

Office: The fire depar tments — • On Nov. 22, someone stole $1,710 of miscellaneous colognes and perfumes from the Ulta Beauty store in Indian Land. Sixteen different types of items were stolen.

IfIndian you know about Landanything Fire this incident,District please call the Protection Lancaster County Sheriff’s Commission: 7 p.m. Dec. 21 at Office 803-283-3338.

Indianat Land Fire Station, 285

IT’s OFFIcIaL

Six Mile Creek Road, Indian — Compiled by Mac Banks Land.

Holiday closures: • Lancaster County Veterans Affairs W H aoffice T ’ s will I n be s Iclosed de Dec. 23-27 and Jan. 2 for the holidays.

BUSINESS a2 • Lancaster County offices a3 EDUCATION CLASSIFIEDS will be closed Dec. 23-27 for a7 COMING UP and Jan. 2 for Newa7 Christmas RELIGION a7 Year’s.

Van Wyck Planning Commission: 7 p.m. Dec. 28 at Van Wyck Community Center, 5036 Old Hickory Road, Van Van Wyck Town Council members Xavier Kee and Cassandra Wyck.

Watkins light a candle outside Van Wyck United Methodist Church.

Lancaster Council: Carolina GatewayCounty is published on Wednesday. It is available digitally at Organizational Van Wyck Town Council members Xavier Kee and Cassandra Watkins light meeting a candleatoutside www.carolinagatewayonline.com.

6 p.m. Jan. 3 at the Lancaster Van Wyck United Methodist Church.

County CarolinaAdministration Gateway P.O. Box 640101 N. Main St., Building, Lancaster, SC 29721 Lancaster.

Lancaster County Main 803-283-1133 Fax 803-283-8969 Planning Commission work session: 5 p.m. Jan. Newsroom 803-339-6868 5Jane at the Lancaster County Alford, Editor jalford@thelancasternews.com Administration Building, 101 N.Advertising Main St.,803-339-6862 Lancaster.(display) orLancaster 803-339-6864County (classifieds)Fire advertising@thelancasternews.com Commission: 7 p.m. Jan. 5 at the Emergency Operations © 2022 Carolina Gateway Center, 111 Covenant Place, Jenna Lincomfelt, left, plays the flute while her dad, Jim Lincomfelt, plays the guitar during the short service at Van Wyck UMC. Lancaster.

Jenna Lincomfelt, left, plays the flute while her dad, Jim Lincomfelt, plays the guitar during

residents confused Van Wyck by zoning changes residents confused

BY HALEY JONES HJONES@THELANCASTERNEWS.COM by zoning changes

VanBY Wyck Town Council HALEY JONES Indian Land and Pleasant The two departments cover tive use of tax money,” said unanimously approved the ValleyHJONES@THELANCASTERNEWS.COM — each have a rich a combined 40,000 residents Dar ren Player, Lancaster second and final reading histor y,Van butWyck as the Panhanin Indian Land and both fire County Fire Rescue director. of the town’sTown new Council Unified dle grows, they must keep upthe district boards suppor t the As the area grows, so have unanimously Developmentapproved Ordinance with the exploding growth in merger. the fire departments, but the second and final (UDO) on Dec. 5. reading the area.

“We think it is a more effecdays are gone when the fire of The the new town’s newdoes Unified UDO not Development include a heavyOrdinance industrial (UDO) on Dec.so5.it changes classification, The new UDO does parnot the zoning of certain include a heavy cels from heavy industrial industrial classification, so it changes toWyck lightTown industrial.

Vanthe Council members zoning of certain par- Xavier Kee and Cassandra Watkins light a candle outside Cur rent business uses Vancels Wyck United Methodist Church. industrial havefrom beenheavy grandfathered to industrial. in,light meaning that specific Cur rent operations business uses business will have grandfathered not bebeen affected, even if the in, meaning that specific land is sold to another busibusiness operations will ness in the same categonot be affected, even if the r y, unless the business is land is sold to another busiinactive for 180 consecutive ness days. in the same categor y,However, unless the business is some residents inactive for 180 owners consecutive and business say days. there is growing dissatisHowever, residents faction withsome the town govand business owners say ernment’s actions, stemthere is growing ming partly from adissatislack of faction with the town govclarity regarding whothe or flute while her dad, Jim Lincomfelt, plays the guitar during Jenna Lincomfelt, left, plays ernment’s actions, stemaffected byWyck recent thewhat shortis service at Van UMC. ming partly from a lack of Photos by Rick Johnson changes. regarding orof Van Wyck United Methodist Church, lights one of the first Theclarity Rev. Espar,who pastor “It’sTimothy government picking what isfront affected by candles in of the Vanrecent Wyck winners and losers, and post office during the Lighting of the Way on Dec. 11. changes. they don’t need to do that,” “It’sMark government said Johnson,picking presiwinners andInc. losers, and dent of J&S Redi-Mix they don’t need do that,” Concrete, 5554toCharlotte said Mark Johnson, presiHighway, Van Wyck. dent of J&S said Inc. Redi-Mix Johnson his land Concrete, 5554will Charlotte and business not be Highway, Van Wyck. affected by the new UDO, Johnson saidtwo hissons land because he has in and willcontinue not be their business 30s who will affected by the new UDO, to run the family business. because he has two sons in For Kyle Starnes, owner their 30s who will continue of Hickor y Hills Smoked to run the family business.

Products, 1714 Steel Hill For Kyle Starnes, owner Road, Van Wyck, the new Residents andyvisitors up Old Hickory Road during Van Wyck’s 30th annual Lighting of of Hickor Hills awalk Smoked ordinance holds greater theProducts, Way. 1714 Steel importance, as he ownsHill 50 Road, acres Van and Wyck, leases the landnew to ordinance holds a soon greater three businesses, to importance, as he owns 50

VAN WYCK LIGHTS THE WAY

ness in the same categor y, unless the business is inactive for 180 consecutive days. departments could rely solely However, some residents on volunteers. and owners say “Thebusiness volunteer par ticipathere growing tion has is gotten less dissatisand less faction with the town government’s actions, stemSEE MERGE /PAGE A6 ming partly from a lack of clarity regarding who or what is affected by recent changes.

“It’s government picking winners and losers, and they don’t need to do that,” said Mark Johnson, president of J&S Inc. Redi-Mix Concrete, 5554 Charlotte Highway, Van Wyck.

Johnson said his land and business will not be affected by the new UDO, because he has two sons in their 30s who will continue to run the family business.

For Kyle Starnes, owner of Hickor y Hills Smoked Products, 1714 Steel Hill Road, Van Wyck, the new ordinance holds a greater importance, as he owns 50 acres and leases land to HALEY JONES three BY businesses, soon to HJONES@THELANCASTERNEWS.COM be four. His father, Keith Starnes, owns 300Council acres Van Wyck Town along U.S. 521,approved for a family unanimously the total of 350 includsecond and acres, final reading ing an industrial siteUnified in Van of the town’s new Wyck.

Development Ordinance “We definitely (UDO) on Dec. 5. tried to take this town Thecare newofUDO does and not build includeit a into heavysomething industrial that really looks times classification, so it100 changes better thanofit certain did,” Kyle the zoning parStarnes “And it was cels fromsaid. heavy industrial atolot ofindustrial. money that could light have used in other Curbeen rent business uses areas my life.” have of been grandfathered said Vanspecific Wyck in,Starnes meaning that business operations will SEEaffected, UDO/PAGE A4if the not be even land is sold to another business in the same categor y, unless the business is

UDO issues showcase distrust in leadership

Van Wyck residents confused by zoning changes

PHOTO SERIES OR PHOTO STORY

WEEKLY UNDER 3,000 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Thomas Hammond Lexington County Chronicle An interesting concept well illustrated by photos that showcase the laughter, learning and school pride of this group of women, players and coaches.

PHOTO SERIES OR PHOTO STORY

WEEKLY 3,000-6,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

William Buchheit The Greer Citizen

Doug Pinkerton The Daniel Island News

SPORTS

B2 THE GREER CITIZEN

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 28, 2023

‘It’s the dust and the mud’

10 | NEWS

thedanielislandnews.com

The Daniel Island News ■ May 18 - 24, 2023

May 18 - 24, 2023 ■ The Daniel Island News

thedanielislandnews.com

NEWS | 11

CONCERT IN THE PARK

Mother’s Day Brunch in the Park Photography by Doug Pinkerton

The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra led a New Orleans-style parade from their Smythe Lake island stage to the second stage on the park grounds.

Now that’s how you make bubbles!

Waverly Arena bubble collision!

Lucy Wilson performs on the back lawn stage.

The winner of the concert picnic spread contest was the Southern Bubbles Luxury Picnic.

The Professional Bull Riders’ (PBR) Velocity Tour made its way to Mill Spring, NC, Friday and Saturday night for the PBR Ironpeddlers Chute Out.

Residents relax on the banks of Smythe Lake as the Fabulous Equinox Orchestra performs.

After several hours of rain, the skies cleared and the cowboys took to the dirt at the Tryon International Equestrian Center.

After two days of raging bulls and bone-breaking spills, Ezekiel Mitchell (TX) and Carlos Garcia (VA) tied for first place at the rodeo, with both putting up 88 points and earning $5,500.

Photos by William Buchheit

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT

CLASH:

Enjoying brunch and music!

Graham Bein catches some effervescent joy!

Josh and Win share bubble love.

Philadelphia Phillies fan Luca Wooley tosses the football in the park.

Nathan Robinson gives a thumbs up for balloon hats.

Waverly Arena bubble collision!

PHOTO SERIES OR PHOTO STORY

Photos by Charles Swenson/Coastal Observer

The cast on stage at the finale of “Aladdin Jr.” Sixth-graders from Waccamaw Intermediate performed the musical at Waccamaw High.

WEEKLY 3,000-6,500 DIVISION

Thursday May 4, 2023

COASTAL OBSERVER

Pawleys Island South Carolina

Aladdin (Cruz Caviedas), the Genie (Lucy Thomas) and the Carpet (Grace Radliffe). At right, Aladdin as Prince Ali with Princess Jasmine (Olivia DeOliveira).

FIRST PLACE Charles Swenson Coastal Observer

Theater magic (carpet included)

The Disney version of Aladdin is about being true to yourself, following your dream and – we’re looking at you Jafar – making wise choices. Those messages are clear on this side of the curtain.

Behind the curtain there’s a different message.

Any child can learn to sing, said Beth Miller, the music teacher at Waccamaw Intermediate, who directed this year’s sixth-grader production of “Aladdin Jr.” “When it’s watered and given love, this is what it becomes,” she said in a curtain call speech.

This is the 15th year that Miller has staged a musical with the students. They gave performances last week for other students and for parents and the community at the Waccamaw High Auditorium.

“These kids have stolen my heart,” Miller said.

But there was another measure of success. “There was one point tonight where I forgot I was directing the show and I was just in the show with you,” she said. “That’s something very special to be able to accomplish at the sixth-grade level.”

Photos by Charles Swenson/Coastal Observer

The cast on stage at the finale of “Aladdin Jr.” Sixth-graders from Waccamaw Intermediate performed the musical at Waccamaw High.

Aladdin (Cruz Caviedas), the Genie (Lucy Thomas) and the Carpet (Grace Radliffe). At right, Aladdin as Prince Ali with Princess Jasmine (Olivia DeOliveira).

Theater magic (carpet included)

The Disney version of Aladdin is about being true to yourself, following your dream and – we’re looking at you Jafar – making wise choices. Those messages are clear on this side of the curtain.

Behind the curtain there’s a different message.

Any child can learn to sing, said Beth Miller, the music teacher at Waccamaw Intermediate, who directed this year’s sixth-grader production of “Aladdin Jr.” “When it’s watered and given love, this is what it becomes,” she said in a curtain call speech.

This is the 15th year that Miller has staged a musical with the students. They gave performances last week for other students and for parents and the community at the Waccamaw High Auditorium.

“These kids have stolen my heart,” Miller said.

But there was another measure of success. “There was one point tonight where I forgot I was directing the show and I was just in the show with you,” she said. “That’s something very special to be able to accomplish at the sixth-grade level.”

Beth Miller takes the cast through a warmup. At right, Irelyn Register, a lady-in-waiting, finds a quiet place back stage before curtain time.

Becoming Jafar The process to transform Ryleigh Thompson into the treacherous grand vizier, clockwise from right, begins two hours before curtain time when Sue Tiller applies the first layer of makeup.

Christie Weaver applies a painted beard.

Ryleigh gathers her thoughts befor the audience arrives.

Sue Tiller, above, helps wrangle the actors into the camel costume. Below, Lucy Thomas inspects the jewels applied by Jessica Mueller as part of her genie makeup.

This was a standout in a category with a lot of strong entries. The choice to feature a variety of shots, including those behind the scenes, really painted a picture of the show’s production and all that went into it. Various depths and angles added to the variety. This took effort!

Beth Miller takes the cast through a warmup. At right, Irelyn Register, a lady-in-waiting, finds a quiet place back stage before curtain time.

Becoming Jafar The process to transform

PHOTO SERIES OR PHOTO STORY

WEEKLY OVER 6,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Robert Timmons Fort Jackson Leader

Emily Hileman Fort Jackson Leader

PHOTO SERIES OR PHOTO STORY

FIRST PLACE

Dax “Rogue” Winfield

Tyler Vincent and makeup artist Meghan Cogdill

housands of Lowcountry Halloween enthusiasts paid good money this month to get the living daylights scared out of them at haunted houses in North Charleston and Mount Pleasant. We asked photographer Ashley Rose Stanol to snap some behind-the-scenes pictures as actors prepared to throw buckets of terror at visitors. She also grabbed sobering photos of guests encountering everything from a weird and frightening rabbit creature and flesh-eating baby to bloodthirsty zombies and monsters wandering with dripping chainsaws.

At the Southern Screams Haunted House at Holy City Brewing in North Charleston, guests took part in a story that placed them in a backwoods West Virginia house filled with unexpected twists and turns. “Obviously scary, but meant to be fun,” Stanol said. “The actors freakin’ love their jobs.”

There was more gore and thrills at Boone Hall Fright Nights where a younger crowd enjoyed a zany, freaky production replete with a haunted house as well as a freak show and hayride. “Both venues had characters walking around the lines trying to scare people in line, which was fun,” said Stanol, who was taken off guard more than once while working to capture the pure fun of Halloween terror.

Southern Screams is open through Nov. 4.

Boone Hall Fright Nights is open until Oct. 29.

Check websites for more information.

15

Photos by Ashley Rose Stanol

Feature 10.27.2023

Ashley Rose Stanol Charleston City Paper

Performer Dubzkii

charlestoncitypaper.com

WEEKLY OVER 6,500 DIVISION

14

Performer Brett Hayes

Makeup artist Megan Bussell applies “dinner” to performer Natalie Mueller (at left) before adding the gore to Brandon Baxter

The shock and horror in the expressions of the people in three of the photos make this entry jump out from the rest.

The other photos showing preparations and behind the scenes action round it out for a great entry.

PHOTO SERIES OR PHOTO STORY

DAILY UNDER 7,000 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Micah Green The Sumter Item

Ken Ruinard Independent Mail

PHOTO SERIES OR PHOTO STORY

DAILY UNDER 7,000 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Cal Cary The Sumter Item What a moving series of photographs. Individually, these pictures are each powerful.

Together, they tell a story all by themselves. Great job on what I am sure was a tough assignment.

PHOTO SERIES OR PHOTO STORY

DAILY 7,000-15,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Jason Lee The Sun News

Jason Lee The Sun News

PHOTO SERIES OR PHOTO STORY

DAILY 7,000-15,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Jason Lee The Sun News These are some of the most beautiful photos I’ve seen while judging through the years. You can tell the photographer took their time to make the most elegant and colorful photos to tell this story. Care and precision went into each photo and I hope the readers appreciated the beauty of each shot.

PHOTO SERIES OR PHOTO STORY

DAILY OVER 15,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Henry Taylor The Post and Courier

Joshua Boucher The State

PHOTO SERIES OR PHOTO STORY

DAILY OVER 15,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Gavin McIntyre The Post and Courier A lot of care was put into each shot. All appear to be timed “just right” as if by accident, even though they were surely coordinated. The rich saturation matches the rich family farm life shown.

The subject matter depicts all aspects of farm life, from the pleasant to the ugly, with equanimity. The pathos is evident with lots of shots of family, farm animals, food, rustic fences, and nature.

The amount of work these pictures do as a whole is what sets them apart. Out of many angles comes one invitation into not just the story, but the farm’s world. Not a single shot is wasted.

PICTORIAL

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Brian Garner The News & Reporter

Delayna Earley The Island News

PICTORIAL

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Thomas Hammond Lexington County Chronicle What a shot! This is such a creative twist to get some coverage of the school marching band. It’s a beautiful and creative shot. Perfect!

PICTORIAL

DAILY UNDER 7,000 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Ken Ruinard Independent Mail

Ken Ruinard Independent Mail

PICTORIAL

DAILY UNDER 7,000 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE David Yeazell Morning News Love the focus on the athlete through an unconventional ‘lens.’ The “Falcons” radiating to the top of the frame boosts the spirit of this photo while illustrating the journey ahead for the runner.

PICTORIAL

DAILY 7,000-15,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Jason Lee The Sun News

Jason Lee The Sun News

PICTORIAL

DAILY 7,000-15,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Alex C. Hicks Jr. Herald-Journal A dramatic photo in sharp focus. It is well composed and perfectly exposed. The powerful image shows a hand touching the wall and meeting it’s reflection in the highly polished stone as if reaching through the wall.

PICTORIAL

DAILY OVER 15,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Gavin McIntyre The Post and Courier

Henry Taylor The Post and Courier

PICTORIAL

DAILY OVER 15,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Henry Taylor The Post and Courier Great Macro. I like the placement of the bug in the third and the flower working as a great leading line. The sharpness of the image is excellent.

HUMOROUS PHOTO

WEEKLY UNDER 3,000 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Kailee Kokes Lexington County Chronicle

Brian Garner The News & Reporter

HUMOROUS PHOTO

WEEKLY UNDER 3,000 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Alexandra Whitbeck The People-Sentinel The expression, the action/pose, the context – it’s highly satisfying. The cutline says he’s dancing across stage, but he looks like he’s just seen a mouse, which makes it more amusing. I would absolutely read whatever came with that photograph.

HUMOROUS PHOTO

WEEKLY 3,000-6,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Bruce Cook Union County News

Charles Swenson Coastal Observer

HUMOROUS PHOTO

WEEKLY 3,000-6,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Abbie Sossamon The Gaffney Ledger This is a classic photo, and one that can’t be staged, and a case of perfect timing.

That’s one happy pup that appears to be thrilled with the new animal shelter.

HUMOROUS PHOTO

WEEKLY OVER 6,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Johnnie Daniels The Dillon Herald

Robert Timmons Fort Jackson Leader

HUMOROUS PHOTO

WEEKLY OVER 6,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Rūta Smith Charleston City Paper This is such a fun and creative shot. It shows the humor of the subjects and the creativeness of the photographer.

It definitely draws the eye to the story and creates interest in the subject. Great shot!

HUMOROUS PHOTO

DAILY UNDER 7,000 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Kyle Dawson Aiken Standard

Bianca Moorman Aiken Standard

HUMOROUS PHOTO

DAILY UNDER 7,000 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Dede Biles Aiken Standard The horse as pink panther with the rider is creative and gave us a chuckle.

HUMOROUS PHOTO

DAILY 7,500-15,500 & OVER 15,500 DIVISIONS COMBINED

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Alex C. Hicks Jr. Herald-Journal

McKenzie Lange Greenville News

HUMOROUS PHOTO

DAILY 7,500-15,500 & OVER 15,500 DIVISIONS COMBINED

FIRST PLACE Grace Beahm Alford The Post and Courier Great shot, I keep looking at it and thinking what and laughing!

WEBSITE

ASSOCIATE & INDIVIDUAL MEMBER DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Municipal Association of South Carolina Vast resources that are organized by topic with multimedia offerings, publications and more. Very well done.

WEBSITE

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

The Gaffney Ledger

Greenville Journal

WEBSITE

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Samantha Connors Charleston City Paper Hub for the community. Stellar use of platform to share news, features and opinion articles.

Great social integration. Had fun perusing this site’s sections and content.

WEBSITE

ALL DAILY DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

The Island Packet

The State

WEBSITE

ALL DAILY DIVISION

FIRST PLACE The Post and Courier As one of the entrants noted, the sites look a lot alike. All are state of the art. All are well curated. But as I took each site on a test drive, I enjoyed the time on this site the most. It’s clear that your state is well served in this regard. I hope they appreciate it.

NEWSPAPER’S USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA

OPEN DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Staff The Post and Courier

Betsy Finklea The Dillon Herald

NEWSPAPER’S USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA

OPEN DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Samantha Connors and Hillary Reaves Charleston City Paper By using multiple social media platforms the Charleston City Paper has effectively expanded its reach and by developing varied content for each platform they have engaged many more followers. In addition they have nurtured their e-newsletter email audience. An excellent job and service to the community!

INDIVIDUAL USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA

OPEN DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Trey Stewart The Greer Citizen

Chris Trainor The State

INDIVIDUAL USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA

OPEN DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Hannah Wade The Post and Courier Columbia/Free Times Hannah does an excellent job of keeping her social media about local spots while being informative to anyone who might come across her accounts.

NEWS VIDEO

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Staff Charleston City Paper

Alexandra Whitbeck The People-Sentinel

NEWS VIDEO

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Travis Jenkins, Brian Garner and James McBee The News & Reporter Video was stellar. Great positioning. Sound was good. It made me feel like I was there.

NEWS VIDEO

DAILY UNDER 7,000 & 7,500-15,500 DIVISIONS COMBINED

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Drew Martin The Island Packet

Jason Lee The Sun News

NEWS VIDEO

DAILY UNDER 7,000 & 7,500-15,500 DIVISIONS COMBINED

FIRST PLACE Jason Lee The Sun News Moving story. And well shot.

NEWS VIDEO

DAILY OVER 15,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Henry Taylor The Post and Courier

Laura Bilson The Post and Courier

NEWS VIDEO

DAILY OVER 15,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Tracy Glantz & Josh Boucher The State An excellent report on the contamination of farms and waters with PFAS chemicals. The interviews with farmers and residents are candid and moving. The videography and editing makes for solid local news.

FEATURE VIDEO

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Delayna Earley The Island News

Travis Jenkins and James McBee The News & Reporter

FEATURE VIDEO

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Delayna Earley The Island News A great dedication to a beloved community member’s legacy.

FEATURE VIDEO

DAILY UNDER 7,000 & 7,500-15,500 DIVISIONS COMBINED

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Jason Lee The Sun News

Jason Lee The Sun News

FEATURE VIDEO

DAILY UNDER 7,000 & 7,500-15,500 DIVISIONS COMBINED

FIRST PLACE Drew Martin The Island Packet This was a solid “feel good” informational piece.

FEATURE VIDEO

DAILY OVER 15,500 DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Andrew J. Whitaker The Post and Courier

Henry Taylor The Post and Courier

FEATURE VIDEO

DAILY OVER 15,500 DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Laura Bilson The Post and Courier Haunting, pulled at my heart strings with pity for children in such situations. Loved the peeks of the environment.

SPORTS VIDEO

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Travis Jenkins and James McBee The News & Reporter

Justin Jarrett The Island News

SPORTS VIDEO

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Travis Jenkins & James McBee The News & Reporter Good interviews and insight on a high school rivalry.

SPORTS VIDEO

ALL DAILY DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Jason Lee The Sun News

Ben Morse The Sun News

SPORTS VIDEO

ALL DAILY DIVISION

FIRST PLACE Gavin McIntyre The Post and Courier I really like the different levels of the video and having the voice over and seeing different B-roll while I was watching. It is not something you see in newspaper very often. It was a clean cut that could easily be on TV or another media. Great job.

NEWSLETTER

ASSOCIATE & INDIVIDUAL MEMBER DIVISION

SECOND PLACE Municipal Association of South Carolina

NEWSLETTER

ASSOCIATE & INDIVIDUAL MEMBER DIVISION

INVESTIGATIVE REPORTS

Sweatman's is ooking with gas And purists aren't too pleased about it HANNA RASKIN MAR 6, 2023 ∙ PAID

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IN-DEPTH FEATURES

Seeding better communication Plant breeders just want to be understood HANNA RASKIN JUL 24, 2023 ∙ PAID

FIRST PLACE Hanna Raskin

A pulled pork plate served at Sweatman’s on March 3/ Photos by Hanna Raskin

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In a bid to keep its doors open, one of South Carolina’s most storied barbecue destinations has shut down all but one of its pits and installed a Southern Pride cooker.

Sweatman’s Bar-B-Que, which started cooking whole hogs over freshly split oak and hickory in 1977, switched its last operational pit over to gas during the pandemic. While that pit is still used to convert pig skin to cracklins, the legendary Holly Hill, South IN-DEPTH FEATURES

Bagels get around the South Here a schmear, there a schmear HANNA RASKIN MAR 27, 2023 ∙ PAID

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Michael Kantar set up a table at the National Association of Plant Breeders’ meeting and urged attendees to share their research stories with the general public/ Photos by Hanna Raskin

At the National Association of Plant Breeders’ annual meeting, which was held last week in Greenville, South Carolina, there are two ways for researchers to present their �ndings. They can speak from the dais, as I did as the conference’s keynote speaker, or they can participate in the event’s poster session. 1 The poster session is exactly like a grade school science fair, with each display detailing an experiment and its results. Except in this case, the posters are so arcane that even

At the pinnacle of the pile is a bloody Mary bagel/ Photos by Hanna Raskin

You know the old Northeastern expression about waiting �ve minutes if you don’t like the weather? Much the same could be said about bagel scenes across the American South.

Bagelries are opening throughout the region at an astounding rate. In Charleston

The Food Section’s motto is “Covering food and drink across the American South as though it mattered as much as crime and politics (because it does.)” This newsletter is chock full of interesting, newsworthy food coverage. Writing, photography and infographics are superb. The editor touts 70% open rates, and we can see why. Great work!

County, South Carolina, where I live, there were three dedicated bagel shops at the start

of the pandemic. Now there are seven, including Ruby’s Bagels, which reports it’s selling

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FIRST PLACE Hannah Wade The Post and Courier Columbia/Free Times “Personality, timeliness and consistency are three key things that make a newsletter stand out among a host of options in the ever-growing and changing digital news market.” Amen! While I enjoyed reading all entries submitted in this category, this one stands out for the tone and content. Each example email includes interesting, timely writing on everything you’d want to know about food and dining in the Columbia area. And the proof is in the pudding – a 15% increase in subscribers.

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The McClatchy Company Mail - Afternoon news: Hurricane Lee and Pride fest updates | HHI matriarch dies at nearly 105

Afternoon Newsletter Wilson, Lisa <lwilson@islandpacket.com>

Good afternoon on Friday, Nov. 6.

Afternoon Here’s news:today’s Hurricane Lee and Pride fest updates | HHI matriarch dies at nearly top news: 105 1. It’s time to swap swimsuits for sweaters! Sunday and Monday’s temperatures are The Island Packet <news@news.islandpacket.com> Fri, Sep 8, 2023 at 4:30 PM forecast to dip into the low 50s in the evening and needle to the mid-70s at peak warmth Reply-To: The Island Packet <news@news.islandpacket.com> as a cold front pushes through. But don’t get too excited. These days are outliers in the To: lwilson@islandpacket.com

meteorological world. Reporter Sarah Haselhorst shares more about the forecast.

FIRST PLACE Lisa Wilson The Island Packet

2. Starting this school year, Beaufort County teachers who live on Daufuskie Island are no longer allowed to take the Haig Point ferry that transports students to Hilton Head Island for school. Instead, they must rely on a private boat not equipped with radar to navigate dark, foggy mornings or stayADVERTISEMENT in rentals during the week. Reporter Mary Dimitrov explains why the school made the decision and tells the teachers’ story.

Afternoon Newsletter Good afternoon on Friday, Feb. 17.

News from Day 20 of Alex Murdaugh’s murder trial:

3. Aggressive driving and the escalation of tempers may have been the cause of a Thursday afternoon shooting at a Lady’s Island gas station. Now, a St. Helena man has been charged with attempted murder, and the other driver is being treated for a gunshot wound.

Also in crime news: A 22-year-old Beaufort man is wanted for murder after a shooting outside a party at a Boundary Street hotel in June. https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ik=d36eb3ff6a&view=pt&search=all&permmsgid=msg-f:1779039517422403512&simpl=msg-f:1779039517422403512

Afternoon Newsletter Good afternoon on Friday, Sept. 8.

Live updates: Last state witness, text from Paul about pills Murdaugh describes getting shot in recording played to jury Car mapped Murdaugh’s movements the night of the murders Here’s the rest of today’s top news: 1. A Beaufort County School District book review committee has voted to permanently remove a second book from school library shelves. “Nineteen Minutes” by Jodi Picoult 1/9 joins “It Ends With Us” by Colleen Hoover on the banned list. Reporter Mary Dimitrov tells us why the book raised concerns of the committee.

2. U.S. Sen. Tim Scott told reporters he is taking his time before making a decision about whether he will run for president. Scott was at the Charleston County Republican Party’s annual Black History Month celebration on Thursday and plans to travel next week to Iowa, another early primary presidential primary state.

Here’s today’s top news: 3. A great white shark originally tagged off Hilton Head in 2019 has surprised 1. Is everyone with me in wishing away Hurricane Lee? The storm was downgraded researchers by showing up nearly 2,000 miles south, off Veracruz, Mexico, according to from a Category 5 to a Category 4 earlier today, and forecasters expect it to turn before reaching us here on the U.S. East Coast. However, dangerous surf and rip currents arehttps://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ik=d36eb3ff6a&view=pt&search=all&permmsgid=msg-f:1758115472669683866&simpl=msg-f:17581154726696838… expected beginning Sunday. Reporter Sarah Haselhorst filed this weather update.

2. On Sept. 7, a month and one week shy of her 105th birthday, Ethel Rivers died peacefully on Hilton Head, the island she called home her entire life. She was a repository of Gullah Geechee culture and tradition, a beloved mother to 17 children and a grandmother to 46. Reporter Blake Douglas shares more about her life.

3. Port Royal Mayor Joe DeVito made it clear Thursday that a permit for a Pride festival — scheduled in a town park later this fall — will be issued because it isn’t illegal. He added that a parade and drag queen show are not part of the festival plans. Karl Puckett has this report about the event.

In other Port Royal news, the Beach Company recently told officials that it must build more than 200 townhomes and some 30 single-family homes, and rent

The Island Packet has a very well designed, well written AFTERNOON newsletter. The idea of publishing it in the PM is creative and effective. It has original content and repurposes items from other sources thus engaging their fast growing audience at a time they are open to news and views. An original way to convert them into daily readers. https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ik=d36eb3ff6a&view=pt&search=all&permmsgid=msg-f:1776502766586154128&simpl=msg-f:1776502766586154128

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Inside this Issue  County hosts inaugural Taxpayer Academy, Page 2.

 $3.6 million grant will fund airport infrastructure improvements, Page 3.  Stormwater design manual receives updates, Page 5.  Brick Chimney Road to reopen this summer, Page 9.

Calendar May 29 – County offices and facilities are closed for Memorial Day. June 1 – Board of Zoning Appeals meeting, 5:30 p.m., 129 Screven St. June 6 – Airport Commission Meeting, 3 p.m., 129 Airport Rd. June 15 – Board of Elections and Voter Registration meeting and canvass, 10 a.m., 303 N. Hazard St. June 15 – County Planning Commission meeting, 5:30 p.m., County Council Chambers, 129 Screven St. June 27 – County Council meeting, 5:30 p.m., County Council Chambers, 129 Screven St. (Council only meets once this month.)

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Jackie Broach Georgetown County

Steve McDaniel, Susan Bromfield & Shreesh Rajeev Diwanaji

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Georgetown County

Georgetown County

Chronicle Volume 11, Issue 4

May 2023

New flood insurance rate maps in effect N

ew flood insurance rate maps from FEMA went into effect this month, meaning some residents may see changes to their home insurance rates. Residents whose homes were moved into special flood hazard areas on the new maps may see rates rise significantly, while those whose homes came out of flood zones may see lower insurance rates.

The changes went into effect May 9. It is the first time the maps have been updated since 1989.

“It was definitely overdue,” said Steven Elliott, Building Official for Georgetown County. “We’re the last county in the state to adopt the new maps. I think they’re going to be a lot more accurate than what we had previously.”

He adds that these maps are federally created and the federal government requires the county to adopt them.

Inside this Issue  Opioid settlement funds to expand prevention, recovery programs, Page 2.  County nets six national public information awards, Page 4.  Moving day is Aug. 1 at Library, Page 5.

Flooding in a residential neighborhood after a storm.

For the average person, the details of the new maps, the new criteria used for determining property elevations and what all this means for property owners is extremely complicated. Luckily, staff in the building department is here to help.

“If individuals have no intentions of doing any improSee “Flood Insurance Rate Maps,” Page 4

Youth Academy puts kids on path to success

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Chronicle

A monthly e-newsletter produced

by Georgetown County, S.C., for its residents and visitors.

onald McInnis is used to getting the call. Sometimes it’s from a parent; sometimes from a teacher or school administrator.

Regardless of who’s on the other end of the line, the message is the same: There’s a student having disciplinary issues and the caller has heard about the Georgetown County Youth Academy and its success in getting kids back on track.

The group, led by McInnis, is a nonprofit that uses sports and physical conditioning to teach life skills, respect for others and oneself, and make a positive impact on young people. It started out over a decade ago, meeting weekly at Beck Recrea- Georgetown County Youth Academy members and coaches after a recent basketball win. tion Center. It has grown so much that the program now takes place Mondays through basketball – and was called Team DEFF, an acronym Thursdays at Beck. It’s open to students ages 8-14. for Development, Education, Fundamentals and Fun. It Participants are mostly boys who play basketball, foot- then transitioned to the Elite Ballers and finally to its ball or run track in the program, but girls are welcome current iteration and its broader scope. too.

On a recent evening, McInnis paced the perimeter of The program was originally focused on one sport – See “Youth Academy,” Page 10

 Candidate filing opens for Andrews, Pawleys elections, Page 6.  More than 2,000 voters may be marked inactive, Page 6.

Calendar Aug. 1 – Candidate filing opens for Pawleys Island, Andrews elections at noon. See page 6.

Aug. 1 – “Bring Harriet Home: Journey to Freedom” sculpture arrives in Georgetown County for temporary display. See page 6.

Aug. 9 – Board of Elections and Voter Registration meeting, 5:30 p.m., 303 N. Hazard St. Aug. 14 – Georgetown Library begins temporary operations at the Howard Center. See page 5.

Aug. 17 – Last day to register for fall youth sports. See page 3.

Aug. 20 – County Planning Commission meeting, 5:30 p.m., County Council Chambers, 129 Screven St. Aug. 22 – County Council workshop on tree ordinance, 4:30 p.m., County Council Chambers, 129 Screven St. Regular meeting follows at 5:30 p.m.

(Council only meets once this month.)

Volume 11, Issue 6

Lake Wylie Today

A monthly e-newsletter produced

by Georgetown County, S.C., for its residents and visitors.

July 2023

County takes ownership of Georgetown Port

Georgetown County took ownership of the Georgetown Port on June 30. On July 24, local officials and members of the public were invited to a special presentation on plans for the Port. Attended by about 75 people, the event took place at Howard Auditorium and was followed by a brief guided tour of the Port.

"Georgetown County sits as the last undeveloped coastal community in South Carolina," said Tiffany Harrison, the county's Director of Economic Development. "I would say to you, while that presents challenges, that also presents opportunities for us. We have the opportunity to define the narrative. We have the opportunity to plan for future growth. We have the opportunity to take an underutilized asset — 40 acres sitting on prime waterfront property, sitting right

County Administrator Angela Christian and County Council Chairman Louis Morant walk along a concrete dock at Georgetown Port during a site visit July 24.

on the edge of our historic tourist district — and to redevelop that into something that will help this comSee “Georgetown Port,” Page 7

Trailblazer: Retired deputy finds new purpose in forest

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fter 35 years working in public safety, T.L. Staub is enjoying a much more relaxed pace.

That’s not to say his new job is easy. He has to deal with heat, bugs and all kinds of other critters. But he gets to spend entire days by himself enjoying the calm of the woods. It’s a huge transition from the Georgetown County Sheriff’s Office, where he spent most of his career.

Since March, Staub has been working part-time in the Parks and Recreation Department. He helps with several different programs. This summer, he’s leading a series of kayak tours all across the county. But his main focus is to maintain existing trails and cut new ones – mostly at Rocky Point Community Forest, though he has worked on trails in other areas as T.L. Staub hammers a trail marker into a tree at Rocky Point Forest. well, including at Stables and Eight Oaks parks. He does a lot of the work by hand, armed with a was always talking to Parks and Rec. and Beth machete, a walking stick (good for clearing the multi(Goodale) about developing some more outdoor activitude of spider webs), a hammer for posting trail mark- ties for the county. There’s so much potential. They ers on trees, and lot of water to help him handle the just didn’t have anybody to do it.” scorching heat of summer.

Goodale, the department director, made Staub an “When I retired, I needed something to do, and this offer and he took on the challenge. He said he was is something I was really interested in,” Staub said. “I See “Trails,” Page 8

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While it is too early for many of those churches to have voted, many churches have notified the Advocate they are participating in the discernment process, while others have voted to steer clear of any paths that might lead to disaffiliation with the UMC. If a church does vote to leave the UMC, the next step is for the matter to go before Annual Conference this June to vote whether or not to close the local church and transfer its assets to a new entity.

See “Discernment,” Page 24

unsafe.

Inspired by the Revolution 2023 theme—“GLOW: God Lights Our World”—youth groups from scores of United Methodist churches across the South Carolina Conference experienced a

powerful weekend of worship and music.

They heard and shared messages focused on sharing God’s message of love and redemption in a relevant way.

See “Revolution,” Page 12

See “Aldersgate Homes,” Page 13

A warm risk: Opening wide the church doors By the Rev. Darlene L. Kelley Most folks thought Mr. Clyde was crazy in a bad way. They were afraid of him, but the brave volunteers in the food pantry gave him a warm bowl of chili and as many hot dogs as he could eat, and he came back the next Saturday and the next. And after a time, Mr. Clyde didn’t feel the need to yell as much or bang his overstuffed bags, heavy with want, against the walls and doors and street signs on his way to the church. And after a time, volunteers understood Mr. Clyde was nearly blind, and all his banging and

yelling was fear.

Then conversation turned to the weather, and volunteers worried about Mr. Clyde and his friend, Marion, and Dusty and Dylan, and the young man who never gave his name but was always polite and wiped down the tables and said “thanks so much.” They worried many of the folks the food pantry volunteers served on Saturday would be cold, left without adequate housing, sleeping in sheds and under the benches in the park without See “A Warm Risk,” Page 11

Bluffton campus separates, charters as independent congregation

By Jessica Brodie BLUFFTON—A thriving satellite church campus in the Lowcountry has reluctantly separated from The United Methodist Church. And while its leadership said no one there saw the division coming, they are pressing on in their work to make disciples of Christ for the transformation of the world in spite of their lack of denominational

affiliation.

In 2012, St. Andrew By-The-Sea UMC on Hilton Head formed a new church community in Bluffton, a rapidly growing community just west of the island. Led by the Rev. Daniel Burbage under then-senior pastor Neil Yongue, the Bluffton campus was intended to be an extension and mission of St. Andrew—one big church with two

campuses to accommodate the area’s westward sprawl.

Since then, the Bluffton campus—dubbed “Bluffton Worship”—began to soar alongside its sister congregation on the island, with more than 200 people in worship, a massive (2,000-personstrong) Christmas Eve celebration, a multiracial See “Bluffton,” Page 11

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AC2023 to return in-person

April 2023

June gathering to address budget, churches voting to leave UMC, more

By Jessica Brodie FLORENCE—For the first time since COVID-19, South Carolina’s Annual Conference will gather in person.

Slated for June 4-7 at the Florence Center, the four-day event will address the business of the South Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church, including what is

anticipated to be a reduced budget for 2024, ordaining and commissioning approximately 20 new clergy members, honoring 26 retirees and voting on a host of churches that elected to separate from the denomination.

With the theme “Seeking a More Excellent Way: Breathe and Believe, Hewing Hope,” this year’s session is the 52nd

gathering of the conference since the formation of the UMC. Lay and clergy members who plan to attend must register

by May 21 at https://www.umcsc.org/2023acregistration South Carolina Resident Bishop L. Jonathan Holston, who will preside at AC2023, said he and other conference leaders See “AC2023,” Page 12

Disaffiliation: Now what?

By Jessica Brodie With an as-yet-unknown number of South Carolina churches voting to seek separation from The United Methodist Church this winter, the question becomes “what next?”

As of press time, the South Carolina Conference of the UMC had not released a tally of the number of churches reporting a two-thirds vote to separate from the denomination, nor the names of these churches. But it appears at least 50 of the 958 total churches in the conference have done so, and possibly far more.

The conference told the Advocate it has decided not to release the names or the total number of those churches who participated in the Local Church Discernment Process and voted to separate from the UMC. “To protect the integrity of the Local Church Discernment Process, the trustees of the Annual Conference, who oversee the fulfillment of the requirements to separate, are treating information about local churches participating in the process as confidential until it is complete,” said Dan O’Mara, conference communications coordinator.

However, a group called the South Carolina Traditional United Methodist Lay Leadership Group reports that of the 122 traditional churches on their list, 50 have voted to separate from the UMC, and several others not on this list told the Advocate they also voted to separate. (See list at end of article.)

See “Disaffiliation,” Page 11

Photo by Jessica Brodie

Photo by Dan O’Mara

Youth across S.C. head to Columbia for first full-weekend Revolution in years

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Song brought many youth closer in their faith walk during Revolution. Here, Nancy Daines performs with Stars Go Dim.

COLUMBIA—More than 1,000 youth made the Township Auditorium in Columbia “GLOW” for Revolution 2023 Jan. 27-29—the first full-weekend gathering of teen disciples since before the COVID-19 pandemic made such large gatherings

By Jessica Brodie United Methodists are gearing up to open two more homes for adults with special needs this year, in addition to the three they already operate.

Aldersgate Special Needs Ministry is about to break ground on the Sunshine House, a home that will accommodate four men with special needs, near Aldersgate’s Rick’s House at The Manor in Florence.

“An anonymous person generously donated the amount to build the home, and it is completely paid for,” said Kim Thomas, Aldersgate executive director.

Thomas said The Manor deeded Aldersgate the property, and it is separated from Ricks House by a parking lot, so the two will be neighbors. Construction should take five or six months, and they hope to be able to move people in by the fall.

“Once it’s built, we have to go through licensing with the Department of Disabilities and Special Needs and fire marshal and such, then we can go ahead,” Thomas said.

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on issues of human sexuality. Churches must complete an intentional, 30-day discernment process; satisfy financial obligations, including all unpaid apportionment giving and unpaid salary and benefits due to clergy; satisfy or transfer of debts and other legal liabilities of the local church; and be in full communication to the district superintendent about all of this, among other steps required. Then, a churchwide vote must be taken before March 1 that indicates two-thirds of professing church members present agree to formally declare the church can no longer continue to function as a UMC.

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By Jessica Brodie Several dozen United Methodist churches in South Carolina are completing the Local Church Discernment Process as this edition of the Advocate goes to press, a process created by the annual conference to enable churches to separate from the denomination if they desire.

Announced a few days before Christmas, the discernment process permits any United Methodist church in the South Carolina Conference to pray and then hold a churchwide vote about leaving the UMC if their members believe the denomination has not upheld its stated doctrine

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Jessica Brodie and Allison Trussell S.C. United Methodist Advocate

March 2023

Churches wrap up discernment process, move toward next steps

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A diverse crowd of men—young, older, Black and White—gathered for a word on diving deeper with Christ from Dr. Derwin Gray, former NFL player turned pastor.

‘Fulfilled’ men’s retreat draws crowd eager to connect with Christ

By Jessica Brodie LEXINGTON—Hundreds of men gathered at Mount Horeb United Methodist Church Feb. 24-25 for wisdom and godly friendship while learning new ways to draw close to Jesus.

Dr. Derwin L. Gray, former NFL player and now co-founder and pastor of multiethnic, multigenerational Transformation

Church in Indian Land, served as the event’s keynote speaker, preaching throughout the event on what it looks like to be a true follower of Christ as a man today.

The event started Friday morning with a golf tournament held at The Spur at Northwoods, Columbia. That evening, men See “Fulfilled Men’s Retreat,” Page 24

A faith-based voice

Methodists champion consumer loan cap, challenge execution secrecy in 2023 legislative session

By Jessica Brodie United Methodists are speaking up and speaking out about two South Carolina bills this legislative session—one to combat predatory lending and another a secrecy bill that would conceal names of companies providing lethal injections for executions.

Both bills are currently in committee as legislators consider and modify their language.

Several members of the Advocacy area of South Carolina Conference Connectional Ministries are working hard to push passage of SB 518, titled

Unfair Trade Practice Consumer Loans Legislation.

The Rev. Bernie Mazyck, co-convenor of the Advocacy area and president and CEO of the South Carolina Association for Community Economic Development, called the bill a step in the right direction. In 2020, South Carolina United Methodists at Annual Conference passed a resolution to combat predatory lending, which Mazyck said “really takes advantage of the poor and marginalized citizens in South Carolina.”

This legislation, introduced by Lexington Sen. Katrina Shealy, would cap See “Legislation,” Page 13

Salkehatchie back for 2023 with 38 weeklong camps

By Jessica Brodie Salkehatchie is back in full swing this year after three years of hiatus because of the pandemic.

That’s the word from Kathy Hart of Salkehatchie Summer Service LLC, who said nearly 40 weeklong mission camps are planned across the state this summer for volunteers to repair the

homes of people in need.

Last year a smaller-scale Salkehatchie was held, with 11 camps and 318 volunteers that repaired 33 homes across the state. Roofs and ramps were the majority of work projects, and all volunteers were required to be vaccinated from COVID-19.

This year, the COVID vaccination requirement has been waived. Volunteers must be at least 14 years old, and all adult volunteers must do a background check. Cost is $250 per volunteer and covers the cost of shingles, building supplies and other materials. Lodging and meals are See “Salkehatchie,” Page 24

Good mix of news/feature stories and opinion. Exhaustive coverage of the state’s Methodist churches and the matters important to them. Inclusive coverage with a range of perspectives. Enjoyed features on local philanthropic efforts. Especially impressed by reporting on disaffiliation.

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Lexington County Chronicle

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Carolina Gateway is published on Wednesday. It is available digitally at www.carolinagatewayonline.com.

Carolina Gateway P.O. Box 640 Lancaster, SC 29721 Main 803-283-1133 Fax 803-283-8969 Newsroom 803-339-6868 Jane Alford, Editor jalford@thelancasternews.com

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HJONES@THELANCASTERNEWS.COM

About 150 people gathered to eat, drink, dance and network at the Greater Indian Land Chamber of Commerce’s winter gala Saturday, Feb. 4, at Firethorne Country Club.

Chamber President/CEO Mike Neese, who also represents District 44 in the S.C House, took the time to thank the many community organizations that have invested back in Indian Land, as well as provide opportunities for members to connect and serve the community.

BY MAC BANKS MBANKS@THELANCASTERNEWS.COM

INDIAN LAND GREEN Neese also announced that Indian Land Green, a nonprofit organization kick-star ted by the chamber, is now becoming its own entity.

Indian Land Green, which will be led

by President Kimberly Magette, will focus on creating trails, green spaces and blueways in the Indian Land community.

Magette, owner of Kimberly Magette Group, said the organization was inspired by local community trash-pickup days, when par ticipants were SEE GALA/PAGE A2

Greater Indian Land Chamber of Commerce President Mike Neese poses for a photo with S.C. House District 64 Rep. Fawn Pedalino. Neese represents District 44 in the S.C. House.

A Charlotte man died from injuries he sustained in a motorcycle accident.

Rober t Srnovrsnik, 53, died Thursday, Feb. 9, at Atrium Main hospital in Charlotte, according to the Lancaster County Coroner’s Office.

The accident happened about 4:15 p.m. near the intersection of S.C. 160 and U.S. 521, with the collision involving a vehicle and a motorcycle, according to the S.C. Highway Patrol.

Based on the Highway Patrol, Srnovrsnik was driving a 2004 Honda motorcycle and struck the back of a 2022 Mitsubishi SUV that was stopped in traffic.

Both vehicles were traveling south on U.S. 521 when the accident happened.

The accident is being investigated by the Highway Patrol.

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ning off being hit by cars. It's a chance to then take them off leash and let them play.”

Tara Greenwood, project manager for the park, told the Chronicle that the city worked with a landscape architect firm to maximize its usage of the 1.5-acre space, as well as conducting research and visiting other dog parks to observe what other municipalities have done. Within the park, the dogs have access to an activity course full of hills, tunnels, hoops and a-frame ramps.

“There is something for every kind of dog,” Greenwood said. “Some dogs [are] a little more laid back than others and others really need to get that

energy out.”

She added that if you look at the park from above, the activity area resembles a dog bone.

Miles said the land the park is built on was donated by Randy and Saradean Hallman, relatives of former council member Casey Hallman.

The land is located on a powerline easement, which means the city had to meet the requirements for two different power companies. According to Anna Huffman, the city’s director of public relations, this caused the planning process to take a few years, but construction only took about half a year.

The project was funded

through city hospitality tax funds at a total cost of $237,000.

The park is open from sunrise to sunset and allows up to three dogs per household. The annual fee for the first two dogs is $25, with the third costing an additional $10. In order for your dogs to be registered, they must have up-to-date records for rabies, parvo (DHPP) and kennel cough vaccinations, along with a record of being spayed or neutered.

There is no current limit to how many dogs are allowed in the park, Huffman said, though she added that the city will monitor the numbers and peak time periods.

Lexington School District 1 considers first dress code changes in nearly 20 years

BY KAILEE KOKES kailee@lexingtonchronicle.com

A Lexington County school district appears on its way to revising its dress code for the first time in almost two decades.

At its regular Feb. 28 meeting, Lexington County School District 1 will vote to give final approval to a measure to adjust the policy that hasn’t been changed since 2004. If approved, it would be the seventh change to the dress code since it was adopted in October 1972.

Some notable changes to the policy include allowing headwear, adding student ID requirements, and changing the consequences of dress code violations.

The revisions were shaped with help from superintendent councils made up of teachers,

students, parents, principals, assistant principals and senior leadership.

Clark Cooper, interim chief of student services, brought the current revisions to the board at its regular Dec. 13 meeting. The policy he brought forth included revisions from these councils. According to the board, these revisions have put focus on preserving and maintaining an effective learning environment and treating students with dignity, discretion and respect.

“Students will dress in appropriate clothing that follows the district dress code policy,” a revised portion of the dress code reads, providing more specific expectations for the restrictions on student attire. “Logos or clothing

5.4%

that promotes alcohol, drugs, tobacco, hate, gang affiliation, nudity, violence, or profanity is not allowed. No clothing or accessories are allowed to disrupt the educational process. The administration reserves the right to determine what is appropriate for school.”

This revision replaces: “Parents/Legal guardians have the right to determine how the student will dress providing that such attire is not destructive to school property, complies with requirements for health and safety and does not interfere with or disrupt the educational process or environment or pose a likelihood of such interference or disruption. The administration is authorized to take action in

instances where an individual's dress does not meet the stated requirements.”

Also added to the code was a provision that “enforcement … will be handled with dignity, discretion, and respect toward all students by school staff members throughout the district.”

When it comes to violations of the dress codes, all but one consequence would see a change if the board votes to approve on Feb. 28: • On the first violation, which saw no revisions, the student is brought in for a conference.

• The second violation is met with a student/ parent conference, but under the revision, a specific directive for the student to receive de-

tention would be removed.

• The third violation again is met with a student/parent conference.

Under the revision, a specific directive that the student is to receive in-school suspension was changed to giving the student detention.

• The fourth violation again is met with a student/parent conference.

Under the revision, a specific directive for the student to receive inschool or out-of-school suspension was stiffened, adding that “continued violations may result in a recommendation for expulsion.”

The Chronicle reached out to all Lexington 1 board members but did not receive responses to our requests for comment.

The projected home value increase in Lexington between 2023 and 2024 according to a recent study by SmartAsset. According to the study, the average home value as of July 31 in the 29073 zip code associated with the town was $242,306, with that number projected to jump to $255,391 next year. The projected jump in nearby Columbia (29223) is 5.5%, with values expected to go from $213,425 to $225,163. The highest projected jump in the state is in Myrtle Beach (29588, 7.8%), while the highest in the nation is in Rio Grande, Texas (78582, 12.3%).

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Hayes is an educational consultant in Charlotte, according to LCSD public information specialist Michelle Craig. He retired as deputy superintendent of Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools, where he directly super vised principals as the learning community superintendent.

Craig said he also ser ved as principal of Nor th Mecklenburg High School and the School of Inter national Studies and Global Economics at Olympic for CMS. He was assistant principal at Quail Hollow Middle and taught math and science at Car mel Middle School. Hayes also coached football, baseball and golf.

He has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a post baccalaureate degree in elementar y education. He also has a master’s of

BACKGROUND

Spadaro is assistant superintendent for Greenwood School District 52, according to LCSD public information specialist Michelle Craig. In the past, he was principal at Langley-Bath-Clear water Middle and assistant principal at Forestbrook Middle. He was a teacher at Creek Bridge Middle and Marion County’s high school STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) academy.

Spadaro ear ned a bachelor’s degree in physical education from Coastal Carolina University and a master of education in instructional accommodations from Francis Marion University, Craig said. He also has a specialist degree in educational leadership and a doctor of philosophy degree from Coastal Carolina.

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West Columbia furry friends have a new place to run around.

The city held a ribbon cutting Feb. 16 for Bark West, its first dog park. The park has two off-leash areas, one for small dogs and one for large, along with an activity course.

“It's just another offering to get folks out and about in the town of West Columbia,” Mayor Tem Miles told the Chronicle. “It gives them a chance to get out and to safely interact with their dogs and the area where they don't have to worry about their dogs run-

BY THE NUMBERS KAILEE KOKES | CHRONICLE

West Columbia celebrated the opening of its Bark West dog park Feb. 16.

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BACKGROUND

New IL Green to build local trails

complete with activity course

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BACKGROUND

Branham is principal of Center ville Elementar y School in Lexington County.

He previously ser ved as the director of academic operations for Hobsons-Naviance Advantage, executive vice president of academic operations for Wake Forest Advantage, national executive director of school improvement for all EdisonLearning schools and senior vice president in South Carolina for EdisonLearning, according to LCSD public information specialist Michelle Craig.

He was also elementar y schools director in Lexington School District 1, instructional evaluation coordinator in Newberr y School District and principal of Saxe Gotha, Prosperity-Rikard and Whitmire elementaries. He was assistant principal at Hammond Hill Elementar y and taught at Prosperity-Rikard Elementar y and Newberr y Middle School, according to Craig.

He has a bachelor’s degree in

SEE OFFICIAL/PAGE A3

Haley Jones

Pamela Carnes and Lancaster County School Board member Melvin Stroble dance at the Greater Indian Land Chamber of Commerce’s Winter Gala at Firethorne Country Club on Saturday, Feb. 4.

Clide Wesley Buffington; Ellie Iola Waltan Hoover; Robert Jackson; Carlton Williams; William Rhodes; Mary Sullivan; Floyd Slice; John Bayless; Lessie Rabon; Warren Ebener, Jr.; Stanley Williams

CORRECTION

Last week’s article “Road bridging Columbia, West Columbia now honors former force in redevelopment” incorrectly stated the date that former Columbia City Council member and prolific West Columbia developer Joe Taylor died.

He died in December 2022. The Chronicle apologizes for the error.

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The four th finalist for Lancaster County School District’s superintendent position, Dr. Paul Michael Spadaro, spoke to community members Monday, Sept. 18, in the USCL Ar nold Special Events Room. Spadaro said he has the data backing his ability to foster success, as he has in past school disPaul Spadaro tricts.

BY MAC BANKS MBANKS@THELANCASTERNEWS.COM

While the roads may be wearing out in Lancaster County, another thing that will have just as many potholes in it in future years is the funding mechanism for repairing and improving these roads if nothing is done.

By the end of 2024, the county will have improved 94 miles of local roads since 2018.

The county has 1,400 miles of publicly maintained roads, with 500 of them maintained by the county or city of Lancaster. The other 900 are maintained by the state through the S.C. Department of Transportation.

A lot of the local road improvements have come from capital sales tax funding, which is going to be dr ying up in the coming years.

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BY KAILEE KOKES kailee@lexingtonchronicle.com

Data provided by Dominion Energy

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The last finalist for superintendent of Lancaster County School District, Dr. Matthew G. Hayes, spoke to community members at USC Lancaster on Wednesday, Sept. 20, ending the five public sessions.

Now that the interview process is over, the decision lies in the hands of the seven Matthew school board memHayes bers to choose the district’s next leader, maybe as early as this week.

Ballot question may be needed for roadwork

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BY HALEY JONES

HJONES@THELANCASTERNEWS.COM

Lancaster County School District’s third superintendent finalist, Preston Heath Branham, spoke to community members Thursday, Sept. 14, in the USCL Ar nold Special Events Room.

He emphasized the positive things taking place in the district, and applauded current staff for their efforts.

Preston

Chamber hosts winter gala

Natalie Lesfensky

Ben and Natalie Lesfensky want the school district to take more action to protect their daughter from a classmate who made death threats via text.

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Spadaro touts educational achievements and leadership

Lancaster Committee of the Whole: 4 p.m. Feb. 15 at the Lancaster County Administration Building, 101 N. Main St., Lancaster.

The agenda is posted on the county website, mylancastersc.org.

Indian Land Fire Protection District Commission: 7 p.m.

Feb. 15 at Indian Land Fire Station, 285 Six Mile Creek Road, Indian Land.

Van Wyck Planning Commission: 7 p.m. Feb. 15 at Van Wyck Community Center, 5036 Old Hickory Road, Van Wyck.

Lancaster County Community Relations Commission: 6 p.m. Feb. 16 at the Lancaster County Library, 313 S. White St., Lancaster.

Lancaster County Democratic Party Women’s Council: 6:30-8 p.m. Feb. 16 virtual meeting. Register at https://bit.ly/3K3FHQ3.

Lancaster County Planning Commission: 6 p.m. Feb. 21 at the Lancaster County Administration Building, 101 N. Main St., Lancaster.

Lancaster County School Board: 7 p.m. Feb. 21 at the school district office, 300 S. Catawba St., Lancaster.

Pleasant Valley Fire Protection District Commission: 7 p.m. Feb. 21 at Pleasant Valley Fire Station No. 1, 9370 Possum Hollow Road, Indian Land.

problem,” she said.

Natalie and Ben Lesfensky met Tuesday, Feb. 7, with LCSD Superintendent Jonathan Phipps and Bryan Vaughn.

“He (Vaughn) told us we came in and ‘complained.’ He was referring to when we came in and filed a police repor t (with the school resource officer),” Lesfensky said. “We were SEE THREAT/PAGE A3

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BY HALEY JONES

Hayes focuses on experience, individualized student success

IT’S OFFICIAL

fanity-laced texts, saying she “broke my best friend’s heart.”

Natalie Lesfensky, whose daughter was threatened, said she feels the school district misclassified the severity of this case and is “victim-blaming” her daughter, while “siding with the aggressor.”

“It’s clear that that’s their mentality at leadership in our district — that the victim is the one causing the

The water level of Lake Murray as of Feb. 21, an elevation that is three feet below being full. Dominion Energy, which operates the Dreher Shoals Dam that creates the reservoir, conducted a drawdown in consultation with the state Department of Natural Resources October through December last year, with lake levels expected to drop to about 350 feet and return to 358 feet by this spring. The stated purpose of the drawdown was to “aid in the control of aquatic vegetation and to assist with maintaining water quality.”

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More superintendent finalists speak

BY HALEY JONES HJONES@THELANCASTERNEWS.COM

557 feet

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A new 233-page r epor t from an international environmental firm in California states that New-Indy Catawba isn’t the source of odor complaints or hydrogen sulfide readings most of the time within areas of York and Lancaster counties in recent years.

Accor ding to New-Indy Catawba, the brown paper mill, located in the Catawb a a r e a o f Yo r k C o u n ty between Rock Hill and Van Wyck, engaged Trinity Consultants in Sacramento to collect and analyze data to determine if there is a link between the odor complaints at the mill from 2021 until now.

The New-Indy mill has been the subject of over 30,000 complaints to both state and federal environmental depar tments and is par t of multiple lawsuits because of the alleged

Death threat victim’s parents implore district to take action The parents of an Indian Land Middle School student who was the victim of death threats by a classmate say Lancaster County School District is downplaying the incident.

Another Indian Land Middle student made the murder threats over a text exchange with a third student Jan. 30. He named the girl in the pro-

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Playhouse wins state contest with “WASP”

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the Indian Land and Pleasdispatched at 7:44 p.m. and according to Miller.

While the post was on the ant Valley fire departments on the scene at 7:50 p.m. in Sun City. The fire was Pleasant Valley Fire Depart- has already occurred, so under control at 8:23 p.m., ment’s page, the merging of the two now operate as one.

New-Indy not sole cause of foul odor

LCDP joins call for Norman’s resignation

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Carolina Gateway P.O. Box 640 Lancaster, SC 29721

BY THE LANCASTER NEWS STAFF REPORTS

A fir e destr oyed two townhomes in Sun City Carolina Lakes on Friday night, Sept. 22.

According to the Pleasant Valley Fire Department, the fire was well advanced by the time they arrived just before 8 p.m., and had already spread into the attic.

The responding fire companies, which included a unit from Waxhaw, Pleasant Valley Fire Department N.C., “made attempts on an aggressive attack,” but they Pleasant Valley Fire Department responded to a townhome fire in Sun City Carolina Lakes on Friday night, Sept. 22. were pulled out due to the failing integrity of the dwelling, according to a PVFD Facebook post.

The townhomes par tially collapsed, from which “a few firefighters narrowly escaped,” the post said.

The depar tment said a decision was made to use the ladder to extinguish the bulk of the fire from above, before finishing up operations with the hand lines on the ground.

Indian Land Fire District Pleasant Valley Fire Department Deputy Chief Chris Miller Area firefighters battle a fire that destroyed at least two said there were no injuries. townhomes Friday night.

The fire depar tment was

PAGE A6

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2023

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Carolina Gateway is published on Wednesday. It is available digitally at www.carolinagatewayonline.com.

Fire destroys 2 townhomes Report says

Branham

WHAT’S InSIde

Indian Land High crowns homecoming queen

City

Sylvan Learning opens in Indian Land

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WedneSdAy, SepTember 27, 2023 • VOLUme 20, ISSUe 34

Van Wyck Outreach Committee: 7 p.m. Sept. 27 at the Van Wyck Community Center, 5036 Old Hickory Road, Van Wyck.

Catawba Nuclear Station siren tests: The outdoor warning sirens around Catawba Nuclear Station will be tested multiple times between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. weekdays through Sept. 29.

Individual sirens will be tested in short 20-second increments.

Although a siren might sound multiple times, this is part of the testing and no public action is needed. If there was ever a real emergency at the plant requiring the sirens to be sounded, local radio and television stations would broadcast information and instructions to the public. For details, visit duke-energy.com/ NuclearEP. This testing is separate from quarterly testing. The next quarterly test is Oct. 11, which will be a three-minute test of all sirens.

Indian Land Action Council: 6:45 p.m. Sept. 28, Indian Land YMCA, 2816 WorldReach Drive, Indian Land.

Van Wyck Town Council: 7 p.m. Oct. 2 at the Van Wyck Community Center, 5036 Old Hickory Road, Lancaster.

Lancaster County Board of Zoning Appeals: 6 p.m.

Oct. 3 in council chambers at the Lancaster County Administration Building, 101 N. Main St., Lancaster.

Lancaster County Planning Commission work session: 6 p.m. Oct. 5 in council chambers at the Lancaster County Administration Building, 101 N. Main St., Lancaster.

Lancaster County Fire Commission: 7 p.m. Oct. 5 at the Emergency Operations Center, 111 Covenant Place, Lancaster.

Lancaster County Council: 6 p.m. Oct. 9 in council chambers at the Lancaster County Administration Building, 101 N. Main St., Lancaster.

Lancaster Recreation Advisory Board: 6 p.m. Oct. 10 at the Barnett Building, 1228 Colonial Commons, Lancaster.

Dutch Fork head coach challenges team after struggles B1

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SPORTS

A WEEKLY PUBLICATION COVERING NORTHERN LANCASTER COUNTY: INDIAN LAND • FORT MILL • SUN CITY CAROLINA LAKES • VAN WYCK

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LASS gala big success

Indian Land FallFestivalis Saturday

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Clinton Sease Farms challenges you to conquer 8-acre corn maze

BY KAILEE KOKES kailee@lexingtonchronicle.com For nearly two-decades a Lexington County farm has been bringing creative fun for local residents with its corn maze.

Clinton Sease Farm, located at 382 Olde Farm Rd. in Lexington, has been around for generations but has switched the main focus of the operation from farming to fall fun.

The farm offers a corn maze that spreads across eight acres, with this year’s theme being “Lake Murray: The Jewel of South Carolina.” The maze, which opened last week, will remain open through Nov. 5.

Lining up with that theme, the maze, when viewed from above, traces out shapes including the shoreline of the lake, a sailboat, a fisherman, the Lake Murray Dam’s iconic intake towers, and a design paying tribute to the World War II training operations on Bomb Island Brian Dalton, a member of the family that owns the farm, said the corn for the maze spans 10 acres, though only eight are used for the maze, adding that they plant the corn July 4 weekend. He said that a business from Virginia designs the layout based on the provided theme and cuts out the paths.

Dalton told the Chronicle that they began using this company about 10 years ago, previously bringing in a group of around 30 workers who would make the maze by hand in an almost three-week process. The process now takes about six hours.

The corn doesn’t go to waste, though, and once the maze is no longer operating for the season, it is turned into feed for the animals.

When guests aren’t attempting to navigate the main corn maze, there are a variety of other amenities to enjoy, including multiple slides, a rope maze, a hayride, a pumpkin patch, a variety of games to play, and a “Corn Snake” maze (wherein children enter through a snake’s mouth and navigate a tunnel constructed with hay).

The farm also welcomes food trucks for the first time this year, with Melt Grilled

FALL EVENTS AT CLINTON SEASE FARM KAILEE KOKES | CHRONICLE

WHERE and WHEN: Corn Maze Sept. 22-Nov. 5. Friday (6-10 p.m.), Saturday (10 a.m.-10 p.m.) and Sunday (2-7 p.m.). $16-$18 (children 2 and under free). clintonseasefarm.com.

The fall attractions at Clinton Sease Farm include a corn maze, a pumpkin patch and the haunted house Deceased Farm.

Pumpkin Patch Sept. 22-Oct. 29. Friday (6-8 p.m.), Saturday (10 a.m.-8 p.m.) and Sunday (2-7 p.m.). $3 (children 2 and under free). clintonseasefarm.com.

Deceased Farm Sept. 15-Oct. 31. Open Friday-Saturday, select Sundays and Thursdays and Halloween night. $22-$65.

Deceasedfarm.com.

Clinton Sease Farm is located at 382 Olde Farm Rd. in Lexington.

Cheese Co. and Jennifer’s Lunch Box feeding visitors.

Clinton Sease also has a pumpkin patch, which will remain in operation through Oct. 29.

During corn maze season, the farm regularly welcomes school field trips. “[It’s] an accredited field trip because we have a curriculum,” Dalton said. “They learn about farming, they learn how to plant pumpkins, berries, and they get a ride around, see the animals, learn about animals, then they get to pick a

pumpkin.”

The corn maze first came to fruition in 2004 when Clinton and Shirley Sease’s youngest daughter encouraged them to start one, according to the farm’s website. Dalton told the Chronicle that it was tough to make a living out of farming when you have 200 acres of vegetables and the neighbor has 2,000.

According to Dalton, the farm used to be a supplier for the supermarket chains Harris Teeter and Winn-Dixie, but ultimately made the switch to

serving as an attraction for visitors, a more sustainable business for the family.

The family doesn’t only operate a corn maze but also Deceased Farms, a haunted attraction launched in 2010 that brings in thousands of people.

The haunted house, the 2023 season of which continues through Oct. 31, operates alongside the maze for a portion of the year, but Dalton emphasized that they are a separate business.

Group raises concerns about EMS response times, county says it’s working to fix problems County EMS director acknowledges that wait times can sometimes last hours

BY KAILEE KOKES AND AL DOZIER news@lexingtonchronicle.com With a local group continuing to push for improvements amid what it says are unacceptable response times, Lexington County EMS says it’s seeking to improve response times and adopt new strategies to deal with emergency calls.

County EMS Chief Brian Hood provided Lexington County Council with an update on services at the Sept. 12 meeting. The new report comes after residents in the Chapin area expressed concerns after an ambulance was taken out of service earlier this year.

Chapin residents continue to voice their concerns, with the Lexington County Ambulance Response Solutions Team holding its latest meeting Sept.

25, continuing to discuss the issues it sees.

The meeting included a presentation charting growth of the county versus growth of medical personnel, accounts of bad response times, and potential courses of action.

“Our concern is that we're not getting 12-minute responses. We have heard up to two hours,” Heather Burkart, retired registered nurse and a key organizer of the group, said, referring to the average response time the county has reported. “We are fighting for a healthy positive environment for our EMS workforce.”

“We are not criticizing our EMS workforce,” she added “We are supporting them. We are fighting for them”

According to Hood, the county is fine-tuning response procedures to make sure ambulances are not dispatched unnecessarily, which is often the case with callers who need medical attention but not emergency hospital treatment.

The service has also contracted with a private ambulance service to handle low-priority calls.

About a month ago, the Chronicle requested comprehensive numbers of emergency medical employees and openings at the county, along with response times and the number of ambulances in service. Those numbers have yet to be provided.

Hood said Lexington County

EMS is facing the same problems as other counties throughout the state: higher call volumes and staffing shortages.

“Our mission is more watered down,” he said.

Hood said wait times for an ambulance in Lexington County could take hours, not minutes, due to the large call volume. But Hood said the service is dealing with the problems, carefully assessing calls that often do not require an emergency response.

People sometimes call about health issues that could be addressed by a family physician, he added.

At the Ambulance Response Solutions Team meeting, Jason Resnick, a former Lexington County EMS employee, questioned the efficacy of MedTrust compared to Lexington County EMS personnel.

The group said it has re-

SEE EMS, PAGE A6

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Two people a re c ha rged w it h ma n slaug hter i n t he drug-related death of a young Barnwell mother.

Sydney Joyner, 20, died Dec. 16, 2022, as a result of fentanyl toxicity. An investigation by the Barnwell County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) resulted in the a r rest s of Rac hea l Ash ley Rountree, 30, of Graniteville, for Voluntary Manslaughter and Joshua Ryan Olive, 40, of R idgeway, for I nvolu n-

tary Manslaughter. Rountree was arrested Feb. 7 by BCSO deputies with the assistance of a SLED fugitive team while Olive was arrested Feb. 10 in Aiken County.

“While arrests have been made, the investigation of this case continues and limited details are being released,” said BCSO Chief Deputy Darlene Cook.

When asked about the difference in charges for the two suspects – voluntary versus involuntary – Sheriff Steve Griffith said, “It’s in the details. The details are what we can’t give out yet.”

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Expanding upon that, Chief Deputy Cook said, “The subjects were charged based on t he element s of t he c r i me determined by the role they played in the death of Joyner.”

Both suspects were booked at the Barnwell County Detention Center prior to a bond hearing.

If bond was granted, the state asked the judge to give the maximum bond allowed and require electronic monitor i ng for bot h Ol ive a nd Rountree.

“We t h i n k he’s a da nger

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celebrates homecoming Inside, A8, B2-3

10066 Ellenton Street, Barnwell, SC | (803) 259-5631

Overdose equals manslaughter Jonathan Vickery Publisher jvickery@thepeoplesentinel.com

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Serving Barnwell County and its neighbors since 1852

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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2023

County cuts comments short

different topic, but the gavel was seconds less than the allotted last council meeting regarding Some not given full 3 minutes struck early on two commenters. time per the county’s rules of concerns about the Barnwell Cole Page, a district three procedure.

County Cemetery such as what Sharpe critiqued the council can and cannot be on gravesites. during public comments resident, spoke about how he feels claiming, “since 2011, there has Alexandra Whitbeck Reporter reporter@thepeoplesentinel.com Voices were stifled at t h e S e p t e m b e r 1 2 B a r n we l l County Council meeting when Chairman Jerry Creech cut public commenters short – a violation of the council’s own procedure.

According to the county’s rules

Joshua Ryan Olive

Rachael Ashley Rountree

Swinging into Will county save Valentine's EMS provider?

Alexandra Whitbeck Reporter reporter@thepeoplesentinel.com

of procedure, “any person or group may speak to the council during public comment with permission of the chair and shall address the chair,” with time limited to three minutes per person, or ten minutes per group.

Four individuals signed up to speak during public comment: C o l e Pa g e , T h o m a s S h a r p e , Barbara Christian, and Norma Owens. All spoke regarding a

he was lied to by county officials for three minutes and 14 seconds.

The People-Sentinel records all public meetings, which is allowed per state law, and verified this time via the reporter’s audio recording.

When Thomas Sharpe took to the podium to speak about alleged misappropriation of mills to the county rural fire service, Chairman Creech only gave him two minutes and 29 seconds – 31

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B

arnwell County may be in search of a new emergency service and ambulance provider if a solution cannot be found in the upcoming negotiations between the county and Medshore Ambulance.

A deadline of March 15 was agreed upon by Barnwell County and Medshore to renegotiate the terms of their three-year contract.

At t h e J a n u a r y 3 0 Health and Safety Committee meeting, Chairman Jerry Creech explained Medshore is losing nearly $450,000 per year due to the increasing prices of operation since the COVID-19 pandemic and - Jason Cooke, are looking to renegotiate Medshore's Vice contractual terms with the county.

President of “Medshore is Operations requesting this increase in subsidy because the costs to provide this essential public service on behalf of the citizens of our county have risen dramatically in the last two years – and particularly in the last 12 months,” states a February 14 press release from Medshore.

“Since the onset of the COVID pandemic in January 2020, Medshore Ambulance has shouldered the financial burden of increasing personnel costs, growing prices for fuel, and nearly triple the costs for medical supplies, and fleet-related expenses. In Barnwell County, the subsidy was last increased a year ago. At that time, Medshore and the county believed post-Covid economic pressures would ease or level off. However, the opposite has occurred, and inflationary pressures have further driven up costs,” states the press release.

“It’s not only Medshore that's been having problems, if you've been watching the news lately it’s Augusta, Aiken, everywhere is having problems with EMS,” said Creech.

The American Ambulance Association completed a study of employee turnover in 2022 and found that 39 percent of part-time EMT and 55 percent of part-time paramedic positions went unfilled.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, diesel prices reached the highest they have been since 2008 in June 2022, and have only just begun to decrease to around $4.50 per gallon.

Much of these negotiations are scheduled to be discussed at the executive session at Barnwell County Council’s

“Medshore’s current request to discuss adjustments to the contract has not been made frivolously."

The People-Sentinel Jay Harvey swings his daughter, Virginia Rae Harvey, at the City of Barnwell's Daddy-Daughter Dance on Feb. 10. More photos on page A9.

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Felicia Kinard and Tonja Alexander hug Sunil Tch after all three entrepreneurs were named winners of the Propel Business Lab Pitch Competition on September 23.

Photos Courtesy: Laura J. McKenzie Communications

Elijah de Castro Reporter / Report for America elijah@thepeoplesentinel.com

Joyce Hair Dalton Bamberg Charles Gooding - Barnwell Linda Dobson - Barnwell Rev. Gene Long Barnwell

Ruth Stover - Barnwell Vivian Murphy Lott Blackville Lewis Edward Kemp - N.Y. Douglas Stewart (Doug) Hightower Sr. - Ulmer

$1.00 Retail For home delivery pricing, 7B

See COMMENTS, 6A

Outgoing police chief claims 'hostile work environment' Elijah de Castro & Alexandra Whitbeck The People-Sentinel

Following the news that Lamaz Robinson was slated to leave the Barnwell Police Department (BPD) and be hired as the Town of Allendale’s administrator, The People-Sentinel obtained a copy of Robinson’s letter of resignation.

On September 12, Robinson sent a letter of resignation to City of Barnwell Mayor Marcus Rivera. In the letter, Robinson cited a hostile work environment caused by council members as one of the reasons for his resignation.

“Unfortunately, this resignation is due to a hostile work environment I have been experiencing since I was appointed Chief of Police but has since worsened with the swearing-in of some council members in January 2022 and further,” states the letter.

In the letter, Robinson attributed his resignation to the actions of District 1 council member Ron Still, who began serving on the council in January 2022.

Elijah de Castro & Alexandra Whitbeck The People-Sentinel

Sunil Tch of Eat Street Restaurant and Felicia Kinard and Tonja Alexander of Kinard's Kitchen were the winners of the Propel Business Lab Pitch Competition on September 23. Each business receives $10,000 to help kickstart their business. sponsors the Propel Business Lab. The competition was a collaboration between the Chamber and University of South Carolina Salkehatchie that put local entrepreneurs through a three-month training that ended with their pitches for the $10,000 grant.

In total, pitches for 16 b u s i n e s s e s we r e m a d e , a n d two were chosen; one for Allendale, and one for Barnwell.

Although restaurants were the

winners of the night, pitches for non-profits and businesses regarding beauty, car cleaning, self-care, transportation, home improvement, youth activities and men’s mental health were made.

“I’m really happy,” said Eat Street owner Sunil Tch, shortly after winning the competition.

“I always say this, [but] I’m an Indian guy who moved to See WINNERS, 9A

WHAT’S INSIDE

OBITUARIES, 7-8A

This time, Owens was given two minutes and 20 seconds in total before Chairman Creech hit the gavel.

During her two minutes and 20 seconds, Chairman Creech said he was going to “break protocol” to provide a response. He spoke for 17 seconds in total, which ultimately means Owens was given just over two minutes to

Lamaz Robinson claims a 'hostile work environment' during his time as chief of the Barnwell Police Dept.

“Per your letter about [a] hostile work environment - you were appointed in June of 2021.

That was eight months before I took office in January 2022,” stated Still in a letter to The PeopleSentinel.

In Still’s letter to the newspaper, he questioned why Robinson See RESIGNATION, 10A

Allendale Town Council yet to hire administrator

I

n 2024, a new brick-andmortar restaurant called Kinard’s Kitchen will open in Allendale, becoming the latest community run business in town.

Additionally, in Barnwell, a new food truck will serve as an extension of the multi-cuisine restaurant Eat Street.

These were the winners of the Propel Business Lab Pitch Competition, in which entrepreneurs pitched their businesses to the community at Allendale’s Carolina Theatre on September 23. Several community leaders, like Barnwell Mayor Marcus Rivera, Fairfax Town Council member Phyllis Smart and Allendale’s Lottie Lewis acted as judges of the competition. The judges then voted and the two winners of the competition, one from Allendale and one from Barnwell, received $10,000 in seed money to help start their business.

“There are so many incredible businesses that took part in the 12-week program to level up their business skills. Go out and support these businesses,” said Bob Snead, president and CEO of Southern Palmetto Regional Chamber of Commerce, which

been $450,857 withheld from the Barnwell County Fire Service in dedicated rural fire tax funds.”

The People-Sentinel is currently looking into these allegations.

Barbara Christian only took one minute and three seconds during her public comment thanking the council for their support of the September 11 memorial in Calhoun Park.

Norma Owens spoke at the

Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4 Arrests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 A Kid Scoop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-10B Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 B Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-7B Puzzles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 B

At a September 25 meeting, the Allendale Town Council went into executive session to discuss the hiring of a town administrator. The employee slated to be hired for this position was former Barnwell Police Department (BPD) Chief Lamaz Robinson, as previously reported by The People-Sentinel and confirmed by numerous Town of Allendale officials.

However, when the council came out of executive session, it did not vote on the town administrator position as stated in the agenda.

Councilmember Lee HarleyFitts told The People-Sentinel that the council has taken no action thus far regarding hiring for administrative positions.

The People-Sentinel previously

reported the council was set to hire two administrative positions – a town administrator (Lamaz Robinson) and a deputy administrator. The deputy position was slated to be filled by Allendale County Councilman William Robinson.

William Robinson confirmed this to The People-Sentinel.

Instead of voting on administrative positions as the agenda stated, the council voted to allow Allendale Chief of Police Lawrence Wiggins hire two new police officers for the Town of Allendale’s Police Department – an illegal action without first amending the agenda to reflect this executive session conversation.

When The People-Sentinel spoke to Councilwoman Kathy Tharin last week, she explained the roles in which each individual will serve: “[William See ADMINISTRATOR, 10A

OBITUARIES, 7A Ione Hanks Broadwater - Greenville Frances Fields Hudson - Barnwell Ethel Zoanne Geter Jacobs - Barnwell Betty Lee Collins Sandifer - Blackville

Clean presentation. Front cover is well-designed and attractive. Stories are well-written and headlines are certain to attract readers’ attention. Good artwork. Inside pages are equally well-designed and thought out. Op-ed page provides plenty of viewpoints and no doubt readers can’t wait to see what’s in the Letters to the Editor section each issue. Nice obituary page layout. Sports pages are equally robust. Great layout and good writing and photos are certain to bring sports fans back to the People Sentinel issue after issue. Good job with the full pages of photos. Really love the “calendar of events” page. The People Sentinel does a fantastic job of keeping its readers informed of news events, sports and upcoming activities. The ads you have are well-designed and attractive. The People Sentinel reminds readers why newspapers continue to play an important part of their daily lives. Keep it up.

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The Greer Citizen REBEL REVENGE: Byrnes destroys West Florence on homecoming night B1

BEHIND THE SCENES: A day with Riverside’s school nurse B7

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Greer man saved by coworker

After auto breaking, shooting

BY KAELYN CASHMAN STAFF WRITER The Greer Police Department (GPD) arrested two brothers last week in con-

nection to an auto breaking incident on January 21 that resulted in the shooting of a homeowner.

Jeffrey Tykei Dodd, 19, of Greer, was arrested late Tuesday afternoon, January 31, and his brother Jerry Nathaniel Dodd, 18, of Greer, was arrested on the evening of February 1; both had outstanding warrants with the GPD. SEE CHARGES | A8

BZA tables Chandler Road exception vote For proposed apartments

BY KAELYN CASHMAN STAFF WRITER A proposed apartment development for Chandler Road and Memorial

Greer Arts and Eats Festival will return to Greer on Saturday, October 7.

The annual event, put on

by Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce, will begin at 10 a.m. and conclude at 8 p.m. in downtown Greer to celebrate and support local businesses.

Arts and Eats Festival

BY MACY COCHRAN STAFF WRITER

Jerry Nathaniel Dodd

Greer brothers face charges

Drive Extension is on hold following a Board of Zoning Appeal’s decision last night.

The board tabled the request for a special exception to allow an apartment complex with up to 82 units on about six and a half acres.

SEE BZA | A5

Greer resident Teresa Sanchez is calling a Greenville postal worker a hero for saving the life of her husband, Marcos Sanchez.

On January 19 at the Greenville P&DC (packing and distribution center), Marcus Sanchez, 69, suffered cardiac arrest while he was at work that Thursday morning.

During his shifts as a mail handler, his wife Teresa said he likes to play jokes on people and pull pranks on his coworkers.

“He’s very silly,” she said. “One of his friends from work, Stephanie Fritz––she thought he was playing around with her when she was going on break. All she saw was his shoes on the floor. She thought he was trying to scare her. The post office has these big bins where you put all the mail in, so she went around there to go scare him, and she found him on the floor.”

Upon discovering her coworker unconscious on the floor, Fritz began screaming for help, according to Teresa.

“We don’t know how long he was on the floor,” Teresa said. “Everybody was surrounding him.

They started to call his name. My husband had no

PHOTO | SUBMITTED

Kent Holliday (left) and Marcos Sanchez are true friends following a life-threatening emergency. Sanchez and his wife now call Holliday a hero for his quick response and care during the incident that almost cost Sanchez his life. pulse, and he was blue.”

Across the room in the post office was Marcos’ coworker, Kent Holliday, who immediately grabbed the provided AED (automated external defibrillator) and rushed to Marcos.

“He didn’t know who it

was. When he got there, he saw it was my husband on the floor,” Teresa said.

Holliday had been trained to use an AED and perform CPR several years ago, Teresa said, and the training kicked in when he needed it most. He opened

The City of Greer has a growing number of businesses offering services for those planning weddings.

Couples or wedding planners can find gowns, suits, cakes, flowers, venue options, a registry and more in downtown.

One of the most recent businesses to join the wedding services industry came with the opening of Fabulous Frocks at 228 Trade Street in December 2022.

“January was our first

full month being open for appointments,” said Kasey Fowler, who coowns the business with her m o m Kristy.

“We’ve had 20 appointments for January.”

“We’ve had a lot of support from Greer, and it’s been really great so far,” she said.

Being from Greer, the Fowlers knew for a long time where they wanted to be.

“That’s our dream loca-

tion right there next to the Davenport,” Kasey said.

The Fowlers had talked for a while about entering the wedding industry, and the doors opened last year.

“We were working on this most of last year, trying to get everything ready,” Kasey said. “We’re just happy to finally be in there and have appointments and see it all come together.”

Kasey, her mom Kristy and her sister Abigail SEE WEDDINGS | A8

Council discusses UDO

Shayne Daugherty

Phillip Dean

Spartanburg D5 announces new principals For two schools

In workshop ‘The plan is a work in progress and will

BY KAELYN CASHMAN STAFF WRITER

BY KAELYN CASHMAN STAFF WRITER

Two familiar faces will be leading Spartanburg District Five’s newest schools.

Following unanimous approval by the District Five Board of Trustees, Shayne Daugherty and Phillip Dean have been selected as the inaugural principals of District Five’s newest elementary and middle schools, respectively.

Daugherty has been selected as principal of Tyger River Elementary School,

The City of Greer is working to consolidate its standards into one unified development ordinance (UDO).

Greer City Council reviewed a working draft last Thursday, discussing sections 1-5 of the eight-section document.

“The plan is a work in progress and will require more meetings before we will be ready to start the

INDEX CLASSIFIEDS COMMUNITY NEWS EDUCATION ENTERTAINMENT OBITUARIES OPINION SPORTS

require more meetings before we will be ready to start the public review process, but we are getting there.’

Mayor Rick Danner City of Greer

public review process,” said Mayor Rick Danner, “but we are getting there.”

After a brief pause due to city staffing changes in the planning department, the process of adopting

| OBITUARIES B3-4 A2 B8 B6 A5 A4 B1-3

Garold R. Farmer, 76 Francis Earle ‘F.E.’ Hendrix, 97 Clyde ‘Tom’ Rampey, Jr., 75 Gary F. Smith, 76

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the new standards is once again moving forward.

“I fully expect over the next several months of workshops and planning commission and council SEE UDO | A8

SPORTS WRESTLING

Athletes win region titles

B1

and Dean has been selected as principal of Abner Creek Middle School, both scheduled to open in the 2024-25 school year.

Shayne Daugherty first joined the District Five family in 2017 when he was named assistant principal at Abner Creek Academy. In 2020, he was promoted to principal at the school, where he still serves today. Daugherty began his career in education as a middle school science teacher; then, he went on to teach at Chapman High School in neighboring Spartanburg District One. He’s held every role from teacher to coach, assistant principal and principal at the elementary, middle and high school SEE PRINCIPALS | A5

the AED to shock Marcos back to life; meanwhile, a couple other employees performed CPR in between.

Holliday sustained Marcos for 15 minutes until EMS arrived to transport SEE LIFESAVER | A5

Duncan approves new fire truck

BY MACY COCHRAN STAFF WRITER The Town of Duncan held a special called meeting on Thursday, Feb. 2, to approve a resolution to purchase a fire truck and finance with Truist Bank.

The resolution allowed Cameron Fant, Town Administrator, to enter into a purchase agreement with Spartan Fire and Emergency Apparatus to purchase a Pierce Pumper built fire truck. The cost will not exceed $944,459.

Fant said the special meeting had to be called prior to Friday because on Friday at midnight, Pierce’s manufacturing was going up 2.5 percent in cost.

“Another increase was scheduled for April. We wanted to go ahead and lock something in before they go even higher,” he said.

Construction on the truck will take 36 months to complete, Fant said. At that time, the Duncan Fire Department will receive their new engine. macy@greercitizen.com | 877 2076

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To face incumbents Whitney, Lipscomb, Peggy Stewart, pictured above in the original Greer Opry, is excited to reopen the venue and reprise her on-stage Lawrence role as ‘Miss Piggie.’

BACK IN BUSINESS

BY MACY COCHRAN EDITOR Nancy Sampson, 61, of Greer, died on Sunday afternoon after falling from a cliff on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Around 12:15 p.m., emergency responders were alerted of the incident at Glassmine Falls Overlook, milepost 361.

Glassmine Falls Overlook is located in Buncombe County, NC, and overlooks a tall waterfall.

SEE FALL | A5

Greer Opry to reopen under original owner

They later moved into First event the Cannon St. building, which had previously been old wrestling arena. set for Nov. 4 theWhen Stewart’s second

BY MACY COCHRAN EDITOR

Startex enlisting public help For Oct. 7 Clean-Up Day

BY MACY COCHRAN EDITOR The greater Greer community is invited to join the biannual Startex-Tucapau Clean-Up Day on Saturday, October 7.

To join the clean-up event, meet in the parking lot across the street from the Startex Post Office, located at 21 North Main St., Startex. The event will include coffee and light snacks served at 8:30 a.m.

The clean-up will begin at 9 a.m., and lunch will be served at noon at the Tucapau Baptist Family Life Center.

Everyone is welcome to volunteer for the event.

This community-wide clean-up day brings together somewhere between 80 to 100 people during both the spring and fall events but has attracted up to 140 in volunteers.

Donald Jones, Founder and President of the StartexSEE STARTEX | A5

CLASSIFIEDS COMICS COMMUNITY EDUCATION ENTERTAINMENT OBITUARIES SPORTS

ARTIST ALLEY

At this one-day, family friendly event, over 80 local artisan vendors will be at the event, selling their handmade goods.

Artisans will include candle makers, leathercrafters, photographers, painters, fabric artists, jewelers, potters, and dozens more creative business owners offering their unique touch on art.

FOOD COURT

All located in the upstate, the 32 food vendors at Arts and Eats will gather in downtown Greer next Saturday to offer everything from cheesecake, donuts, pizza, barbeque, hot dogs, soul food, Mexican food, lobster, and every category in between–– including beverage from popular spots as local as Greer’s Flying Fox Coffee.

LIVE MUSIC

Don’t forget to bring a chair to this year’s Arts and Eats. After grabbing a drink and a bite to eat, families and individuals will want to sit and enjoy the live bands performing along Trade Street. Live music will begin at 11 a.m. and will continue to 8 p.m.

Taylor Corum will kick off the music at 11 a.m., SEE FESTIVAL | A5

FILE PHOTO | THE GREER CITIZEN

In Blue Ridge Parkway

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encompasses just that–– artisan vendors and some

of the best bites around the upstate of South Carolina.

In addition to the highly anticipated art and eats, visitors may drink locally brewed and other wellknown beers, as well as enjoy live music starting at 11 a.m.

Children are invited to attend the event and enjoy free crafts and interactive activities for all ages.

Black, Bracewell join Blue Ridge Rural Water race

Greer woman falls from cliff

Downtown businesses prep for wedding season

BY KAELYN CASHMAN STAFF WRITER

GREER, SOUTH CAROLINA VOL. 110 NO. 39 $1.00

Arts and Eats Festival returns to Trade St. Oct. 7

BY MACY COCHRAN EDITOR

Who family now calls a hero Jeffrey Tykei Dodd

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2023

The building most recently known as home of The Spinning Jenny will soon return to its roots as the Greer Opry House, opening on November 4.

Peggy Stewart and her late husband originally opened Greer Opry House in 1997, and people gathered on location of the well-known venue, located at 107 Cannon St., for 19 years.

Prior to owning the Greer Opry House in ’95, Stewart and her husband had owned the Powdersville Opry House for 23 years before it burned.

PATTI BLACK

Black has been a member of BRRWC since 1983 and says she has a big passion for water.

“I grew up on Lake Cunningham until I turned twenty and got married,” she said. “I have a passion for water because there’s so many things we need water for.”

The Greer High School graduate said she can tackle any problems that come her way.

She hopes to implement infrastructure moderniza-

WANT TO VOTE?

Lisa Bracewell

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What: BRRWC Board of Directors Election When: October 10, 6 p.m.

Where: Blue Ridge High School, 2151 Fews Chapel Road.

How: Cast your vote in person at the meeting or vote by proxy.

Completed proxy forms can be mailed or delivered to the Blue Ridge Water Office at 2241 Fews Chapel Road, Greer. All proxies must be received at the BRRWC office no later than October 9 at 5 p.m. Proxy forms were included in the BRRWC September bill. To receive a proxy form, call the BRRWC office 864895-1719. tion, community engagement, and emergency preparedness.

“Aging infrastructure can lead to water quality and supply issues. I am committed to investing in our water delivery systems, ensuring reliability, and improving overall efficiency,” she said.

In addition, the community’s input is important to Black, and she said they deserve someone who will include the community in the decision-making process.

She also said that in an

ever-changing world, being prepared is essential.

“We need plans that ensure you have access to essential water services in times of crisis,” she said.

Black has spent decades involved with the community through working with State Auto in Greer, a Commissioner for Lake Cunningham Fire Department, as well as Greer Commission of Public Works, where she gained inside experience about the operations of a public utilities company.

“If elected, I look forward to using my background and experience to help Blue Ridge Rural Water Company continue to be efficient and beneficial for the community,” she said. “Together, we can shape a brighter future for our community.”

Black encourages everyone to come out and vote for her on October 10. She thanks BRRWC for their support and thanks those who are voting for her for their trust in making the Blue Ridge community better.

LISA BRACEWELL

Lisa Bracewell has lived in the Blue Ridge community all her life. As owner of Glassy Mountain Florist SEE ELECTION | A5

Lyman planning to hold 100-year celebration fest Honoring history and community

BY MACY COCHRAN EDITOR

PHOTO | SUBMITTED

The Town of Lyman’s two-day celebration in November will honor Lyman’s history as a mill village and those within the community.

| OBITUARIES B5 A6 A2 B8 B6 A5 B1-4

husband began struggling with health issues, however, she had to leave their business to take care of him. At that time eight years ago, The Spinning Jenny opened.

Owner of the Cannon St. location Steve Sandlin has leased the building to Stewart until January, she said.

“Maybe it’s a short-time lease for the simple fact that someone’s going to buy it. They have until the first of January,” she said. “It’s all according to how Steve and I work out the lease of the building because other people are leasing it, too. We will SEE OPRY | A5

Patti Black and her granddaughter

BY MACY COCHRAN EDITOR The Blue Ridge Rural Water Company’s (BRRWC) election is coming up on October 10, and newcomers Patti Black and Lisa Bracewell will face incumbents to fill three seats on the Board of Directors of BRRWC. The election will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 10, at Blue Ridge High School.

Whomever is voted into the Board of Directors’ seat will represent all members of BRRWC, including the Cliffs at Glassy, Cliff Valley, Cherokee Valley, and North Greenville University.

Incumbents running for the seat are Dale Whitney, David Lipscomb, and Gram Lawrence.

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Dorothy ‘Dot’ H. Clark, 86 Teresa Faye Wilson Kearney, 58

LIVING HERE BAGS FOR HOMELESS Greer man gives supplies to those in need

B7

The Town of Lyman will soon celebrate its 100th anniversary as a town with a two-day Centennial Celebration on November 4 and 5.

Lyman, founded in 1923, was once a thriving cotton mill village created for the Pacific Mills company. As the first of its kind, the village buildings included not only homes, but a school and library. The community was considered one of the largest in the south during the 20s.

“The fabric of the Lyman community and commerce was woven from SEE LYMAN | A5

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COASTAL OBSERVER

Vol. XLI No. 34

COASTAL OBSERVER Vol. XLII No. 16

Pawleys Island, South Carolina ~ September 28, 2023

A dispute over appointments that had simmered for two years boiled over last week with Republicans on the Georgetown County legislative delegation ousting James Sanderson from the Board of Voter Registration and Elections.

Lawmakers said the move threatens to upend working relationships that transcend party politics and impact how the four-member delegation functions. It prompted the delegation chairman to consider briefly whether he should walk out.

“This represents what I consider to be a cosmic shift in how Georgetown operates, which is consistent with what I’m seeing around the state, and it’s troubling,” state Sen. Ronnie Sabb said.

Sanderson was nominated to the elections board in 2021 by state Rep. Carl Anderson, the

County projects top list in regional plan

current delegation chairman.

He and Sabb are Democrats.

Sanderson is the president of the local United Steelworkers union. He has served on the elections board in the past.

State Sen. Steven Goldfinch and Rep. Lee Hewitt, Murrells Inlet Republicans, objected to the nomination, saying Sanderson’s ties to the Democratic Party made him too partisan to serve on the board that conducts elections. They abstained from voting in 2021 in order to uphold the tradition of not overruling their colleagues’ nominees. The appointment was made by the governor.

Even had they voted against Sanderson, Anderson noted at the time, his vote and Sabb’s would have prevailed because they represented 58.44 percent of the county’s population. Delegations use “weighted voting” to ensure equal representation.

With the 2020 Census, the balance shifted. Goldfinch and Hewitt now represent 53.96 per-

By Charles Swenson COASTAL OBSERVER

Charles Swenson/Coastal Observer

The Pawleys Pier is now half its original 820-foot length before the hurricane.

HURRICANE IAN | A year later cent of the county’s population.

The delegation met last week after a legislative workshop sponsored by the Georgetown County Chamber of Commerce. In front of an audience of about 300 at Pawleys Plantation, the lawmakers showed that they disagreed on issues, but managed to talk things through and work together.

PAWLEYS ISLAND

By Chris Sokoloski COASTAL OBSERVER

namic. It’s a little more dangerous with golf carts and vehicles mixing, especially when golf carts don’t pull over, [which] of course they don’t have to.”

The town issued 667 permits last year, including 204 that were issued to Pawleys Island Golf, which rents carts to visitors. The company paid $5 for each of its permits. The town took in $4,374 in total permit fees.

Administrator Dan Newquist said either he or Town Clerk Daniel O’Hara spends about 15 minutes processing a permit.

See “Pawleys,” Page 3

As they took up an agenda of appointments to local boards in front of an audience of about 20, Anderson noted “we respect each others’ appointments.”

For vacant seats on the County Transportation Commission and the board of the Georgetown County Water and Sewer District, they did.

See “Delegation,” Page 4

The legislative delegation – from left, Rep. Lee Hewitt, Rep. Carl Anderson, Sen. Steven Goldfinch and Sen. Ronnie Sabb – tried to work out differences over appointments before convening their meeting last week.

Charles Swenson/Coastal Observer

COUNTY COUNCIL

Town wants to review impact of golf carts The town of Pawleys Island is moving forward with a plan to raise its fee for golf cart permits from $10 to $25, with Town Council members calling for a review of the impact that the carts are having on the island.

“Golf carts seem to be a little more wild, west, kind of a freefor-all,” Mayor Brian Henry said at a Town Council meeting last week. “We, as a town, need to get a handle on who’s coming on the island, because these golf carts are mixing with vehicles. It creates a little bit of a dy-

Retreat links strategic focus to land-use plan update

By Charles Swenson COASTAL OBSERVER

Charles Swenson/Coastal Observer

The town issued 667 permits last year. This cart got a new permit before council froze the process.

These are the headlines for Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026: “Affordable housing partnership opens first homes.”

“Major manufacturer relocates to county employing 1,200.”

“Job market booms.”

Whether those make it into print three years from now depends on how well Georgetown County Council is able to convert its vision into policy and action. And the best opportunity to do that is with the update to the land-use element of the

county’s comprehensive plan, a consultant told the council after a day-long retreat this week.

“The most important thing you can do as County Council is roll up your sleeves and jump right in,” said Irene Dumas Tyson, the planning director for the Columbia-based firm Boureaux. “The thing you’re going to have to do to have these headlines is to get the land-use element right.”

The county started work on the element in 2018, but delayed the process in 2020 after complaints that it didn’t include enough public input. It See “Council,” Page 2

LAND USE | Royal Farms

Opponents ramp up efforts as gas station seeks permits

By Charles Swenson COASTAL OBSERVER

Opposition from area residents to a convenience store and gas station on Highway 17 in the Litchfield area took on increased urgency with an application last week for state permits for the project.

Royal Farms, a Baltimore-based chain, plans a 5,154-square-foot store with 16 gas pumps on 2.8 acres at the corner of Ford Road. Residents in the Hidden Oaks neighborhood, which is adjacent to the site, learned of the project last fall when the engineer made a presentation to the homeowners association.

Neighbors raised concerns about traffic and stormwater runoff and started organizing.

“We have over 3,000 signatures on our petition,” Jackie Harris, the HOA president, told

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HIGHWAY 17

Weighted voting tips balance to GOP in ‘cosmic shift’ COASTAL OBSERVER

Coastal Observer

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LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION

By Charles Swenson

FIRST PLACE

Pawleys Island, South Carolina ~ February 2, 2023

Charles Swenson/Coastal Observer

Jackie Harris, HOA president at Hidden Oaks, outlines strategy at a meeting of opponents to Royal Farms. an audience that packed into the Waccamaw Library over the weekend.

Opponents have contacted local and state officials and plan to request the state Department of Health and Environmen-

tal Control hold a public hearing on the project’s stormwater permit. They have also hired a lawyer.

Because the property is already zoned “general commercial,” which allows convenience

stores and gas stations, the project will not come up for a public hearing by Georgetown County unless the company seeks a variance to the zoning regulations, said Holly Richardson, the county planning director.

Royal Farms has submitted a site plan for zoning approval, she said.

“There is still an opportunity for us to step in,” said Tom Winslow, an attorney working with the opponents. “Today, you’re driving past a wetland.

Tomorrow, you’ll be driving past gas pumps.”

From the information Royal Farms has provided the state, “they’re pretty far along,” said Frank Pinizzotto, a civil engineer who lives in Litchfield Country Club. “I used to be in this business.”

From his experience, “this is not the only site that was picked,” he said. But it is prob-

ably the best one.

The location between Pawleys Island and Litchfield means there is sufficient traffic. The fact that Royal Farms estimates the store will generate 4,100 daily car trips doesn’t mean it will produce more traffic.

“I’m not selling gas to people who are leaving town, I’m selling gas to people who are in town,” Pinizzotto said.

Royal Farms did not respond to a request for comment about the project.

Pinizzotto suggested that the opponents find a way to tap into the names on their petition to create a survey to find out what people want in the area.

That will make their argument stronger when talking with officials and agencies.

“You can’t just say what you don’t want,” Pinizzotto said.

See “Land use,” Page 3

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Education: The classrooms with no walls receive state grants as environmental champions.

Second Front

Pier owners still plan to rebuild

By Charles Swenson COASTAL OBSERVER

Fishing lines now dangle from the end of the Pawleys Pier where, one year ago, only broken timbers hung after Hurricane Ian cut the structure in half. The shortened pier is the most visible reminder of the storm that made its final landfall at North Island after crossing Florida into the Atlantic.

But the recovery continues in smaller ways along the coast.

Even though Ian was barely noticed west of Highway 17, the storm surge from what was classed as a Category 1 hurricane was nearly as high as the surge from Hurricane Hugo, See “Ian,” Page 4

By Charles Swenson

ty by AECOM. After the council approved the plan, the county submitted a funding request to GSATS for just two in its short-term Transportation Improvement Plan. The request, estimated at $3.3 million, was the lowest of any local government in the region for a share of See “Highway,” Page 4

New director on leave after claim of ‘possible’ 2020 sexual assault

By Chris Sokoloski COASTAL OBSERVER

Pawleys Pier Village

The end of the pier floats away in September 2022.

Channel dredging is just the start COASTAL OBSERVER

Charles Swenson/Coastal Observer

A plan to eliminate left turns at Litchfield Drive is on the list for funding.

SCHOOLS | Coastal Montessori

MURRELLS INLET

A pair of dredges was expected to arrive in Murrells Inlet this week to start work in the federal channel, the first of three proposed projects to improve navigation through the estuary.

Georgetown County has a second chance to get funding for improvements to Highway 17 on Waccamaw Neck that were approved by County Council in 2021.

Seven projects recommended in a study of the highway corridor ranked in the top 25 that will be included in the region’s long-range Metropolitan Transportation Plan. A proposal that would sync traffic signals from Litchfield through Murrells Inlet was the top ranking project in the region.

“Georgetown County did very well,” said Jenny Humphreys, a senior transportation planner for the consulting firm CDM Smith, which is drafting the plan for the Grand Strand Area Transportation Study.

The projects are among $53.4 million in improvements recommended by the corridor study conducted for the coun-

Dredging in the federal channel was last done by the Army Corps of Engineers in 2017. The current project received funding from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021.

As part of that work, Georgetown County is seeking federal and state permits to dredge

shoals from the mouth of Oaks Creek behind the entrance jetties.

“It’s truly a safety issue,” said state Rep. Lee Hewitt.

The Corps agreed to let Georgetown County piggyback on its channel project to take advantage of having the See “Inlet,” Page 2

Chris Bergeron, the director of Coastal Montessori Charter School, calls accusations that he may have sexually assaulted a Waccamaw Middle School student three years ago “vile, malicious,” and “blatantly false.”

“Being falsely accused is bad enough, but being forced to be away from school and having to avoid com- Chris Bergeron municating with people has made this a nightmare for me and my family,” Bergeron wrote in a statement released Sept. 20.

Bergeron was placed on paid administrative leave when the school’s board of directors

learned of the allegations on Sept. 1. As part of the conditions of his leave, Bergeron is not allowed to have any contact with school staff, parents or students.

Although the charter school is sponsored by the Georgetown County School District, it is run by its board.

Jason Lesley, spokesman for the sheriff’s office, said last week that the investigation is ongoing.

Bergeron’s lawyer, Amiel Rossabi, said Bergeron has not been contacted by the Georgetown County Sheriff’s Office as part of the investigation. Rossabi added that he has left three telephone messages for the investigator but has not heard back.

An Horry County woman told a sheriff’s deputy and a victim’s service officer on Aug. 29 of a “possible sex assault” involving her daughter on See “Charter,” Page 3

EDUCATION | Magnet schools

Hands-on learning on display in start-up program

By Chris Sokoloski COASTAL OBSERVER

The Georgetown County School District’s magnet school program is in full swing and it has teachers and students in the Carvers Bay area thinking outside the box, like using Legos in lessons.

Pleasant Hill Elementary School principal Lee Glover said his students “absolutely love” building with Legos.

“Because it’s project based, they’ve able to articulate and develop those soft skills And they’re collaborating,” Glover said. “That’s what we want.”

Third-grader Everrette Owens learned about gravity by building a Lego car and a ramp for it to traverse. Everrette learned that the steeper the

ramp, the faster the car reached the table.

“If we didn’t have gravity we would be floating and because of our Earth’s gravity, when things go downhill [they] get faster,” he said.

Everrette and his classmates showed off their projects at an an open house for family members on Friday.

Another class studied earthquakes by attaching a cable from a battery powered motor to a platform. After they built a structure made of Legos on the platform, they turned the motor on, which turned the cable and shook the platform. That allowed the students to see how sturdy a structure needs to be to not collapse during an earthquake.

“It is very important that we

Chris Sokoloski/Coastal Observer

Pleasant Hill Elementary School third-graders, from left, Alaina Grace Hosenfeld, Chase Lemacks and Mekhi Sarver, study the effects of an eathquake on a structure.

keep students engaged but also help them to understand that with that engagement and fun, there’s learning. There’s learning and it’s fun,” said Brantay Cohens, Pleasant Hill’s lead magnet teacher. “I believe learning should be fun.”

Other projects included building a device to communicate over a long distance using light and sound; building a robot and creating the coding so it could move under its own power; and building a motorized fan powerful enough to topple a paper tower.

“The beauty of all of this is they’re having fun learning. They’re working with their classmates to problem solve and to debug problems,” said Constance May, the magnet See “Magnets,” Page 3

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Arts: Waccamaw High senior’s art work to be displayed at airport.

Page 8

Obituaries .................................. 2 Crime.......................................... 5 Opinion ......................................6 Crossword ................................ 10 Classifieds .................................11 Sports ....................................... 13 Online coastalobserver.com WHS sports: Girls basketball team slips to second with narrow loss.

Page 14

Arts: Students get first look at 30th annual Pawleys Island Festival of Music and Art. Second Front

Nonprofits: Kiwanis Club marks 25 years of helping children.

Page 7

Obituaries .................................. 2 Crime.......................................... 5 Opinion ......................................6 Crossword ................................ 10 Classifieds .................................11 Sports ....................................... 12 Online coastalobserver.com Paddling: Kayak and paddleboard races return to Pawleys Creek.

Page 14

Loved reading this newspaper. Full of local stories by local reporters. Tons of letters, clean, easy-to-read news design, and excellent use of photography.

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SERVING THE CITY OF GOOSE CREEK ourgazette.com || Thursday, September 28, 2023

NAACP, ACLU seek transparency in book review process FEBRUARY 8–14, 2024

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Phillips’ meeting with Safe Harbor productive

Parks and Rec director breaks rules Loper spends nearly $800k unapproved; administration takes 73 days to notify Council

Port Royal mayor, town officials discuss concerns with port developer

By Scott Graber and Mike McCombs The Island News PORT ROYAL – A long-anticipated “sit-down” between Port Royal Mayor Kevin Phillips and officials from Safe Harbor Marinas finally happened Thursday, Feb. 1 at the Town Hall in Port Royal.

It appears the conversation was a productive one.

Vice President for Construction and Development Peter Clark and

attorneys John Ray and Nicole Scott were in attendance on behalf of Safe Harbor. Phillips was joined by Town Councilman Jerry Ashmore, Town Manager Van Willis, and his staff.

According to Phillips, Safe Harbor arrived with its own agenda — an agenda that did not include

Kevin Phillips

the “build-to-rent” item that has become a flash point with town leadership, as well as its residents.

Phillips indicated to Safe Harbor that this item should be on the agenda and it should be dealt with first.

Phillips said Safe Harbor said it had no contract with The Beach Company — the Charleston construction firm that presented the “build-to-rent” concept to the town.

“Furthermore,” Phillips said, “Safe Harbor indicated to us that the ‘build-to-rent’ option was not a forgone conclusion.”

“John Ray (attorney for Safe Harbor) said that he would take the Town’s concerns back to Safe Harbor headquarters where they would discuss the Town’s position.

And I said, ‘You’ve got to figure out another way,’” Phillips said.

Town officials characterized the meeting as positive.

“I think it went well,” Willis said of the exchange. “There were a number of topics that we wanted discussed and they were. … Also, we got some sort of sense where they may be in the permitting process and the master planning efforts.”

According to Phillips, Safe Harbor said it was close to getting its permit to start with construction of

SEE MEETING PAGE A7

LOWCOUNTRY LOWDOWN

LOLITA HUCKABY

Democratic primary proves we’re off to the races

From left, Tom Berenger, director Lawrence Kasdan, Jeff Goldblum, Kevin Kline and William Hurt, on the set of the Big Chill. File photo

B

BEAUFORT y most accounts, Saturday’s Democratic presidential primary here in the Palmetto State was a success for President Joe Biden and his re-election bid.

He won 96 percent of the votes cast and will take the state’s 55 delegates to the national Democratic Convention when they get together in Chicago in mid-August.

But, as you may have already heard, only 4.27 percent of Beaufort County’s voters went to the polls Saturday (or voted early), about the same percentage of voters statewide.

What you also know is South Carolina’s one of 24 states that have “open” primaries; you don’t register by political party here so you can vote in either party’s primary … either … not both.

It’s a certain bet that the higher

A new perspective

By Delayna Earley The Island News The American Association of University Women (AAUW), Beaufort Branch held their eighth annual STEAM Day on Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024, at USC Beaufort.

The event catered to rough-

ly 80 middle school girls from “Our goal is to introduce those schools in northern Beaufort in this age group to careers withCounty who came to learn about in the five branches of STEAM,” and attend interactive workshops Chapter President Janice Herbert featured around each of the ar- said about the event. “Our objeceas that STEAM covers – science, tive is to provide opportunities technology, engineering, arts and SEE CAREERS PAGE A6 mathematics.

NEWS

HEALTH

EDUCATION

INSIDE

Fired Beaufort County rec director hired in Georgia.

Handling Valentine’s Day when you have diabetes, preventing heart disease and more.

Former Beaufort High principal sues school board, The Island Packet.

PAGE A10-11

PAGE B7

Lowcountry Life A2 News A2–7 Voices A8–9 Health A10–11 Sports B1–2 State News B3–5

PAGE A4

Education B6–7 Legal Notices B9 Arts B10–11 Military B12–13 Directory B14 Classifieds B15

T

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All that autumn, strains of ‘Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,’ ‘Whiter Shade of Pale,’ ‘I Second That Emotion,’ et. al.,

streamed from every dorm room, frat house, and pub on campus. The Big Chill was the background music of our young lives that fall. We couldn’t get enough.

So, when the movie finally came to our university theater just after Christmas break, we packed that tiny, single-screen cinema to overflowing on opening weekend. It was a genuine campus-wide phenomenon.

And for me – though I never admitted it then – it was a letdown.

I just didn’t find the movie compel-

ling. In hindsight, I think I was too young to get it, and too much a child of the times. Sure, I loved all that 60s music, but I was very much an 80s kid. I had no real context for understanding those angsty, 30-something characters, former college radicals coming to grips with their yuppiedom – and their mortality.

The only part of the film that captivated me – besides the Motown music – was its setting. The story unfolded

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By Delayna Earley The Island News It has been posted all over social media – a handicap accessible playground is coming to Beaufort County and has been placed at the Port Royal Community Center.

But documents, internal communication and information from multiple sources show that Parks and Shannon Recreation Direc- Loper tor Shannon Loper did not follow the rules on how to get it. And the Beaufort County administration was less than forthcoming about how long it took to address the issue or notify County Council.

According to the presentation that Chuck Atkinson, the Assistant County Administrator for Development and Recreation, gave during the Finance, Administration and Economic Development Committee meeting on Monday, Sept. 18, Loper and the Parks and Recreation Department did not follow proper procurement procedure when securing the handicap accessible playground.

The term “handicap accessible playground” is the term used by Beaufort County when referring to the playground, so that is the term we are using.

According to Atkinson, the playground structure was procured via a Sourcewell National Cooperative Contract, which is an agreement between a local, state, regional or federal government and a business that secures affordable rates and establishes delivery terms on goods that the agency needs to have.

During the meeting, he told committee members that Beaufort Parks and Recreation did not follow the proper procedure per Beaufort’s Code of Ordinances Sec. 2-509(d), which states that any purchase made that is more than $200,000 needs to be brought before County Council for approval, even if the money has previously been approved as part of the budget process.

He claimed to believe that intentions behind the “oversight” were good and asserted that the positive aspects of the new playground

SEE RULES PAGE A7

NEWS

EDUCATION

VOICES

INSIDE

Ex-attorney Fleming appeals 10-year sentence for helping Murdaugh steal.

Parker’s Kitchen donates $75,000 to support Beaufort County teachers, staff.

Theresa White: Pine Island’s development will help, not hurt, Gullahs.

PAGE A5

PAGE B2

PAGE B6

Lowcountry Life A2 Obituary A2 News A2–8 Legals A8 Arts A9 Health A10–11

Sports Education Faith Voices Military Directory

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SERVING THE CITY OF GOOSE CREEK ourgazette.com || Thursday, February 16, 2023

ED Director aims to make The Creek a ‘destination city’

BY RALPH MANCINI rmancini@journalscene.com As Goose Creek’s new Economic Development Director, Rob Wiggins has his sights set on not only attracting new business to the surrounding area, but to also keep folks in the state’s eighth-largest city by making it their number-one choice for their service needs.

The latter goal, of course, implies backing retail venues throughout The Creek and even offering advice to first-time or less experienced merchants who are trying to make their way in a competitive arena.

Wiggins’ industry knowledge as it

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pertains to retail operations is based on nearly 15 years of workforce development that saw the Marion native run a youth and apprenticeship program as an employee of Trident Technical College.

Similarly, the former member of the Goose Creek Planning Commission assisted specialWiggins needs individuals in the interest of enhancing their soft skills as part of a South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation program.

Panel OKs townhouse project

Button Hall Road created its own “I think a lot of it is just getting involved with the on mural that may eventually serve as a popular landmark that people will community, be a part of the community.” gravitate to.

Rob Wiggins

Goose Creek economic development director

“I think a lot of it is just getting involved with the community, be a part of the community,” remarked Wiggins on the topic of best practices for a current or aspiring business owner/operator who’s hoping to keep the lights on and ultimately thrive.

“You know, even if it’s sponsoring a sports team for a rec department

to really grow their brand within the city. And we do a lot within the city to help those restaurants and those retail establishments show their presence with the murals and the art work we’ve done downtown.”

A prime example of a business planting its roots through artistic endeavors, he said, was how the incoming Stones Throw Brewing site

Wiggins expounded on the continued promotion of art in Goose Creek by explaining how the city may seek to lay the groundwork for public festivals featuring art competitions in the tradition of ArtFields events in Lake City.

When referencing the attributes of the Goose Creek community when listing the reasons why residents are choosing it as their long-term or forever home, Wiggins maintained

Sacrifice at sea

“School districts have become battlefields in South Carolina and across America.”

Sharina Haynes

Goose Creek NAACP branch president

mass book banning or provide any clarity on the review process until September, after the ACLU-SC filed a public records request.

“School districts have become battlefields in South Carolina and across America,” Haynes said.

“These actions are putting excessive

and undue pressure on all public school employees, particularly teachers and librarians, who are caught in the crossfire of larger political conflict, motivated by cultural shifts and stoked for political gain. Teachers are being maligned as harming children and are subjected to constant scrutiny and even direct surveillance by many parents, school administrators and activist groups. Some are afraid to offer their students award-winning books BRANDON ROBERTS/INDEPENDENT that may violate vaguely stated laws about teaching the history of racism People stand in support as Sharina Haynes, NAACP Goose Creek or that may be misleadingly labeled Chapter president, speaks during a press conference Monday, as pornographic. As a result, teach- Sept. 18, outside the Berkeley County Schools administrative offices. Haynes called for transparency in the district’s book review Please see BOOK, Page A3 process after a list was submitted in an attempt to ban 93 books.

‘One Night’ to remember City of Goose Creek and New Life Church partner for this year’s all-inclusive prom Samantha Bigelow

Woman accused of assaulting juvenile

BY RALPH MANCINI rmancini@journalscene.com A new 12.29-acre mixed-use townhouse development could soon be in the offing for Goose Creek community members, as the local Planning Commission recommended the approval of a rezoning proposal for property along Harry Brown Boulevard on Feb. 7.

A zoning modification from Planned Development (PD) to General Commercial (GC) and Townhome District (R-4), as noted by Planning & Zoning Director Kendra Wise, would be in line with the City’s Comprehensive Plan for a “Village Node District” intended to encourage a mixture of residential, commercial and institutional land uses.

Managing partners Brett Woodward and Eric Leineweber were in attendance during the evening session that saw the latter take the podium and explain plans to dedicate 1.6 acres of the parcel to service retail on the front end. The rear portion of the land in question would include between 80-100 townhomes.

Leineweber referenced a “specific code” and/or “state statutes” that would require his investment group to build four-to-six townhomes in separate rows to avoid an overcrowding of residential structures.

“It also requires us to do multiple product types. By saying product types, you’ll have front garages, you’ll also have alleys and then you’ll have rear garages ... that kind of mixed land,” said the Charleston-based developer.

The applicant further mentioned the possibility of adding swimming pools to the residential mix in response to a question posed by Planning Commission member Lisa Burdick. However, Leineweber didn’t provide any

Leaders from the Goose Creek Branch NAACP and American Liberties Union of South Carolina had a press conference before the Monday, Sept. 18, regular meeting of the Berkeley County School Board to address the current attempt to ban 93 books in the school district.

District officials received all 93 Requests for Reconsideration of Instructional Material from one person in May 2023. Sharina Haynes, Goose Creek NAACP branch president, said at the press conference the district not publicly acknowledge the existence of the attempted

Please see DIRECTOR, Page A3

City Council approval pending

Please see TOWNHOUSE, Page A3

Through March 31, 2024

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MASSAGE

On 40th anniversary of its release, The Big Chill still one of Beaufort’s main attractions

By Margaret Evans The Island News

Event introduces Beaufort girls to STEAM careers

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Still Chillin’ After All These Years

Middle school students design the axles and wheels for a car made from a water bottle so that it will roll across the floor by placing a large straw through the bottle and then blowing up the balloon and releasing it during the engineering session at the American Association of University Women, Beaufort Chapter’s annual STEAM Day held at USC Beaufort on Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

BY BRANDON ROBERTS broberts@journalscene.com

COVERING BEAUFORT COUNTY

Staff report

PHOTOS PROVIDED

American Legion Post 166 honors the Four Chaplains

C

ommunity members gathered at the American Legion Post 166 headquarters on the afternoon of Feb. 5 to commemorate the heroic and selfless acts of a group of men who sacrificed their lives rescuing civilian passengers and military personnel as an American troop ship, the SS Dorchester, sank on February 3, 1943.

These four brave individuals will forever be known as the Four Chaplains.

The SS Dorchester was used for troop

transport in World War II. The large vessel was hit by a German torpedo, prompting its immediate evacuation.

The attack is considered the secondworst sea disaster of the Second World War. The Four Chaplains were comprised of George Lansing Fox of Lewistown, Pennsylvania; Rabbi Alexander David Goode of Brooklyn, New York; Clark Vandersall Poling of Columbus, Ohio and John Patrick Washington of Newark, New Jersey.

Hanahan duo earn high honors at BBQ event STAFF REPORT

from Lake City fronted by pit master Phillip Miles, won first place — along with the right to be called the 2022 State Barbeque Champion — in the barbeque (butts) category for the second year in a row and for the third time in the last four years. The team also won the ribs category for second consecutive year. Due to COVID and the cancellation of contests, the SCBA did not name winners for 2020.

Ken Hilliard and Dawn Verbarg — better known as Blazin’ Bullets Barbeque — scored an impressive fourth place finish in this year’s prestigious Master Barbeque Awards competition sponsored by the South Carolina Barbeque Association (SCBA). The couple is no stranger to SCBA awards, having finished in the top five in 2017 and 2018, and in the top 10 in 2016.

Tail-Gater Hater, a cook team Please see BARBECUE, Page A3

INSIDE Calendar A2 

Opinion A6  Sports A4  Classified A7

Ken Hilliard (left) and Dawn Verbarg proudly display their trophy.

PROVIDED

The Berkeley County Sheriff ’s Office has arrested a Cane Bay woman after a verbal altercation led to the assault of a juvenile.

Deputies have arrested Samantha Lynn Bigelow, 37, and charged her with assault and battery in the second degree.

Deputies responded to the area of Cane Bay Boulevard just after 8 a.m. Friday, Sept.

15, in reference to an assault in progress.

Preliminary investigations revealed Bigelow and the victim were involved in a verbal altercation. Bigelow then escalated the altercation by assaulting the victim multiple times.

Bigelow was booked into the Hill-Finklea Detention Center to await a bond hearing.

The Berkeley County Sheriff ’s Office continues to investigate.

Goose Creek Therapeutic Recreation Manager Hannah Miller said nearly 250 people, mostly adults with special needs but some youth as well, registered for the event and more than 150 attended. They were treated to a red-carpet arrival, dinner and music at the Goose Creek Recreation Center.

BY BRANDON ROBERTS broberts@journalscene.com

I

t may be called “One Night” because it is one night many will never forget.

For the first time since its inception in 2017, the “One Night” inclusive prom for those with special needs started by New Life Baptist Church and pastor Billy Harmon partnered with the city of Goose Creek Therapeutic Recreation SUBMITTED PHOTOS Division to host the annual event.

For the first time since its inception in 2017, the “One Night” inclusive prom for those with “It was so magical,” said Hannah special needs started by New Life Baptist Church and pastor Billy Harmon partnered with Please see PROM, Page A3 the city of Goose Creek Therapeutic Recreation Division to host the annual event.

‘Popsicles in Space’ One Goose Creek family’s collaborative musical effort

BY MATT BISE mbise@berkeleyind.com Patrick Leitner has been writing and playing music for years. He often releases his work on music sharing sites such as Spotify, Bandcamp, Apple Music and SoundCloud.

The sites are the spot for those wanting to get their music out there but, Leitner

said, there’s an oversaturation of artists and it’s hard for original songs to get needed traction. But it is about the love of music and writing for him. Sharing the process with his children makes it even more enriching.

His latest effort that involves his kids, ages 8, 12 and 15, is a playful, futuristic sounding number called “Popsicles in Space.”

“I bounced ideas off them for things they thought would be fun. This one is much more light hearted song than those that I have written in the past,” Leitner said. “Each of them played at least one instrument in it. Whether that was a ratchet from my tool box or popsicle sticks on

the song.”

The whimsical piece is not the normal brand for the Goose Creek resident. He said most of his songs are deeper, introspective songs. He’s not the struggling artist type, he has a fulltime job as an engineer with the Navy. He’s been playing music since high school and said it is easier than ever for musicians to get their music out to the world, which is both a blessing and Goose Creek resident Pat- a curse. rick Leitner recent collab“You can put music out orated with his children there and somebody in the for a song called “PopsiPhilippines or Ireland can cles in Space.” listen to your song for free basically. It doesn’t cost you a desk, xylophone or a shaker, anything as a musician to put they all had a hand playing different parts throughout Please see POPSICLES, A3

INSIDE Calendar A2  Opinion A8  Sports A6  Classified A9

Leitner’s children, from left, Noah, Emma and Caleb.

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Sweeter than ever

Trident’s trauma triumphs in focus at S’ville Rotary

BY RALPH MANCINI rmancini@journalscene.com

FIRST PLACE Brandon Roberts The Summerville Journal Scene

RALPH MANCINI

Trident Health Network CEO & President Christina Oh touched on a kaleidoscope of health-related topics at the Feb. 15 Rotary Club of Summerville meeting. In addition to apprising the audience with life-saving stories, she also updated the crowd on numerous forthcoming projects.

Vape shop on S. Cedar denied

While some in the audience might have been expecting a laundry list of stats when Trident Health Network CEO and President Christina Oh stepped to the podium at the Feb. 15 Rotary Club of Summerville meeting, the healthcare leader instead chose to shine a light on the people who diligently pour their energies into savings lives.

In recounting how the North Charleston-based Trident Medical Center emerged as a Level II trauma center in 2016, Oh shared the remarkable care provided to a trio of patients who recently faced unusual life-or-death circumstances.

She began by relating a recent incident that saw a 19-year-old male transported to the Roper Hospital

Diagnostics ER with a stab wound in the chest area. The altercation victim was decompensating (a deterioration of a structure or system), according to the guest speaker, as the Roper medical staff was left with no other choice than to send the patient to Trident.

“So, they get to the trauma bank.

By the time they called Dr. (James M.) Brenner in, the kid was almost dead. Dr. Brenner realized he didn’t have time to get this young man to the OR, so they splashed iodine on his chest and cut [it] open and found the problem,” said Oh. The source of the patient’s plight that had him on death’s doorstep was a hole in his heart that Dr. Brenner patched up before he was relocated to the ICU. About seven days later, the local teen was discharged.

“Dr. Brenner had an opportunity

The debate regarding the vape shop proposed for 123 S. Cedar Street in Downtown Summerville is now over, following a recent decision by town officials to deny the e-cigarette retailer an opening at that location.

Overturning initial approval, the final decision to deny was based on the location’s proximity to a licensed daycare facility at St. Luke’s Church that was overlooked during the initial assessment. Daycare facilities, youth centers and public parks such as Hutchinson Square and the playground at the YMCA on West Doty Ave are identified as “sensitive receptors” by Summerville’s Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). The UDO stipulates that no new tobaccorelated retailers can be within 500 feet of residential areas and sensitive receptors, and if such a business is proposed to be within 1,000 feet of one, town staff “shall consider the compatibility.”

“I don’t have a problem with vape shops. I have a friend with a vape shop, but it’s out where it makes sense,” said Summerville mayoral candidate and real estate broker Richard “Dickie” Miler, who was among several citizens who spoke against a vape shop in that location during the Board of Zoning and Appeal (BZA)’s January 10 meeting at Town Hall.

“The whole point is not prohibition, but to limit the potential negative health impact within young and vulnerable populations,” said Miler.

“Reviewing the data and trying to act within the spirit of the UDO – limiting that exposure and potential manipulation of young minds — is why (we) realized this use didn’t fit at that location.”

Vape FX, an e-cigarette retailer on S. Main Street, is within 500 feet of Hutchinson Square, but was approved for that location before the UDO was adopted. It

to reunite with this patient and the young man brought his mom. She was sobbing when she said, ‘I just lost another son last year, I couldn’t have lost this one,’” continued Oh. “There’s a lot of stuff that’s routine to us in healthcare and not routine to everyone else. You know there’s something special when you walk through the ER a week later and the physicians are saying, ‘Can you believe we just did that?’”

In a second extraordinary effort by Trident Health Network’s medical staff, Oh conveyed how a 36-year-old married mother of four — rendered unresponsive by a stroke — was treated for a “huge” frontal hemorrhage in her brain.

Despite the patient’s risk of mortality being 97 percent, the Summerville Please see ROTARY, A3

Magical mystery tour ArtFields Jr. portraits on display at Public Works Art Center

BY JENNIFER BENT

T

PHOTOS BY RALPH MANCINI/STAFF

he Public Works Art Center was the scene for the Artfields Jr. showcase during last week’s Third Thursday in Summerville’s downtown area. The traveling exhibition features South Carolina Award Winners in grades 1-12. Among the distinguished artists is Summerville High School student Iona Brown pictured alongside her production titled, “If the shoe fits.” Other notable offerings included: “Under it all” by Ladson’s Caitlin Benoit who focuses on the fear that comes with mortality. Emma Moseley of Myrtle Beach, on the other hand, submitted a piece titled, “Lola & Marley.” It spotlights her two dogs who passed away 24 hours of each other.

Jackson sets table for council re-election

BY RALPH MANCINI rmancini@journalscene.com

Please see VAPE, A3

Jackson

Being ethical by “doing the right thing” is a core tenet longtime Summerville Town Councilmember Bob Jackson continues to subscribe to as he prepares for his upcoming bid for re-election this coming No-

vember.

Having served the community since 2007, the 66-year-old elected official purports himself to be an open book who has plans to govern fairly, but without doling out empty promises to his constituents in District 6 and beyond.

“It’s some of the same things

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that I’ve done in the past,” began Jackson during his recent interview with The Journal Scene. “Transparency to me is saying in private what you say i n publ ic a nd you r vote shouldn’t be different than your thoughts just because you know it’s going to win anyway.”

To that end, the U.S. Navy and

Air Force veteran is steadfast in his views on how to best guide Summerville into continued growth and prosperity with the help of his fellow Councilmembers.

“Leadership is not always agreeing with the citizens, it’s Please see JACKSON, A3

Tea festival gets bigger each year in Summerville

BY BRANDON ROBERTS broberts@journalscene.com

BRANDON ROBERTS/STAFF

The 2023 Sweet Tea Festival brought thousands of people to Summerville this past weekend.

The event was 2-7 p.m. this past Saturday and is designed to celebrate the local community’s history of being the birthplace of sweet tea.

“The core of the event, however, is to bring locals together and celebrate the qualities of Summerville,” said Steve Doniger, ex-

A woman drinks tea Saturday, Sept. 23, during the 2023 Sweet Tea Festival in downtown Summerville.

Please see TEA, A3

Deputy injured after pursuit

“The core of the event, however, is to bring locals together and celebrate the qualities of Summerville. At 4 p.m., there were so many people in the streets you could hardly get through. That’s what we like to see.”

Steve Doniger Executive director of Summerville DREAM

Eye in the sky

BY BRANDON ROBERTS broberts@journalscene.com Around 2:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19, a patrol corporal with the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office made a traffic stop near Cone Lane.

The deputy approached the vehicle and the driver, a middleaged white male, attempted to leave the scene. The deputy tried to get him to stop, and the driver drove directly at the deputy attempting to strike him. The deputy was able to jump from in front of the vehicle.

The deputy returned to his vehicle to pursue the suspect.

They traveled a very short distance to Scotch Range Road, where the suspect, at some point, realized there was no way out of the neighborhood, turned around and returned to the entrance off of Central at a high rate of speed.

Two additional deputies from the DCSO’s traffic unit arrived at the intersection of Scotch Range and Central Avenue, and one of the deputies had taken cover behind a power pole and was preparing to deploy stop sticks, a device used to deflate the tires. The suspect then drove off the road directly at the deputy, struck the power pole and rolled the vehicle.

“When the vehicle rolled, it went over the deputy attempting to deploy the stop sticks,” said Lt. Rick Carson, of the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office. “That deputy was transported to the hospital where initial indications are he did not sustain any major injuries, but does have some bangs and bruises. He was extremely lucky in this incident.”

Carson said the suspect was also taken to a local hospital for treatment. Currently his injuries are unknown.

“When the suspect is released from the hospital, we can say he will be facing serious charges to include failure to stop for blue lights with njury, one count of attempted murder, one count of assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature and malicious damage to property greater than $10,000.”

BRANDON ROBERTS/JOURNAL SCENE

Chris Makowski, town of Summerville public information officer and drone program manager, pilots a white Parrot ANAFI drone during a flight demonstration Wednesday, Sept. 20, at Gahagan Park. The flight demonstration took place after the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for the town’s drone program.

Summerville officially unveils drone program

BY BRANDON ROBERTS broberts@journalscene.com

T

he town of Summerville made its drone program official this past week with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and flight demonstration at Gahagan Park.

The use of drones by local governments has increased significantly since 2020 and the number of towns and public safety agencies using drones is expected to double by 2028, according to the United States Department of Homeland Security.

Chris Makowski, Summerville Drone Program manager and the town’s public information officer, has been a drone pilot since 2016.

He said he got the idea for a drone program

this past February when he realized its potential to help the community.

“Time is money,” he said. “It’s an old saying, but it is true. Time saves lives. This program benefits many departments, and what will talk about today is just a sliver of what this program can do.”

Summerville Mayor Ricky Waring addressed the crowd and said he often reads about places defunding their public safety departments.

“We are funding ours,” he said. “We are experiencing things in Summerville we never have – shootings, burglaries, missing children – this drone program has impressed me more than anything I have seen in a long time. I’m here today for the same reason most of you are,

and that is to get educated about how important this program is and will be. It will help us save lives and help the people we are supposed to protect. Other places already have programs like this and the town is behind it because it’s going to work. These are the types of things we are proud of here in Summerville. We are trying our best to do anything we can do to save lives.”

Capt. Chris Hirsch of the Summerville Police Department talked about some of the benefits a drone program provides for law enforcement, such as helping find missing people, especially children and elderly.

“Having an eye in the sky will save time and Please see DRONE, A3

Front loaded with local happenings/events/stuff. Headlines for written stories are attractive and engaging although leads could be better. Clear titles and banners show the rear what they are getting into. Front pages made me want to buy the paper! Adequate spacing provides reader with clarity and not cluttered. Photos provide readers with ‘eye breaks’ and adds to story. Photos are of excellent quality. Sports stories are detailed enough for away fans to be placed at the action.

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the globe for its first Innovation Day at Shaw Air Force Base.

“We’ve brought about 70 industry partners to come to the town here at Shaw Air Force Base to offer innovative solutions or technologies to remove the problems we’re trying to solve in the Middle East,” said Lt. Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich, commander of

New chairs named to Sumter school board’s standing committees

the Ninth Air Force/Air Forces Central.

Innovation Day was an event created for opportunity. It was a way to bring commercial industries under one roof to show how their products could help solve issues relating to AFCENT’s defense in the Middle East by providing offthe-shelf options that could

enhance the numbered Air Force’s ability to execute air operations.

The all-day event took place in Shaw’s Carolina Skies Club building, where AFCENT welcomed nearly 250 registered guests from 70 industry partners who were ready to pitch innovative technologies to AFCENT and United States Air Force Chief of Staff leaders in

attendance.

Industries came from across the United States and the world from countries such as Germany, Denmark and France. Those in attendance, a majority of which were American-based industries, include Lockheed Martin, Blue Halo, Phelps 20/20,

SEE INNOVATION, PAGE A4

Jazmin Ghent shares jazz at Patriot Hall

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SEPT. 30, 2023 - OCT. 2, 2023

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Growing eSTEAM Sumter Festival 1 week away Saturday event is free and showcases local career opportunities

BY BRUCE MILLS bruce@theitem.com Next week is the first Saturday in October, and that means it will be the annual eSTEAM Sumter Festival,

which is a free, family fun event to celebrate in a handson way.

The acronym stands for a 21st-century educational model focused on the integration of science, technology, engineering, arts and math, and the festival is a great way to bring businesses and schools together to showcase existing and future career opportunities around the disci-

WANT TO GO? WHAT: eSTEAM Sumter Festival WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 7, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

WHERE: Downtown Sumter COST: Free ON WEB: esteamsumter.com

plines, according to event organizers.

Seasonal events spooky adventures and

BY BRUCE MILLS bruce@theitem.com

Fall into autumn with plenty of activities coming up for everyone

BY ALAYSHA MAPLE

PHOTOS BY CAL CARY / THE SUMTER ITEM

Jazmin Ghent plays on stage at Patriot Hall on Saturday, Feb. 11. Ghent, a six-time Billboard Chart Top Artist and 2019 NAACP Image Award Winner, came to Patriot Hall in Sumter to play jazz music. Tonya Nicole headlined for Ghent.

It will be the fourth-annual festival, and it is shaping up to be the largest to date with 90 exhibitors and 15 food trucks scheduled to participate in downtown Sumter, said Erika Williams, manager of communications and strategic initiatives with TheLINK Economic Development Alliance.

TheLINK’s mission is to grow economic development in Sumter and Lee counties

and serves as the host of the festival.

Exhibitors will include local and area manufacturers, health care providers and other businesses with interactive displays to spike youths’ interests in career and workforce possibilities. Local industries attending will include Thompson Construction

L

et’s play I spy. spy . I spy with my little eye once-green leaves that have turned shades warmer than in the weeks before. before . I spy with my little eye the appearance of knit sweaters, thick socks and well-worn, well-loved chestnut ankle boots. boots. I spy with my little eye the rolling steam from coffee cups, their coffee-bean scent now tinged with a hint of pumpkin spice and everything nice. nice .

SUMTER ITEM FILE PHOTO

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WEEKENDER

WEEKENDER VOL. 105, NO. 196

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2023

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Gov. McMaster proposes $2,500 pay hike for teachers other things.

McMaster talked about his budget proposals Gov. Henry McMaster is produring his State of posing pay raises for South Carthe State Address olina teachers that will raise their last month. He pay by 25% by 2026. proposed raising The pay increase is one of a few teacher salaries proposals made by McMaster in by $2,500 at each his budget proposal for the year. step, bring the HENRY While state lawmakers are considminimum startering budget matters, there have McMASTER ing teacher salary also been discussions on legisla- to $42,500. McMaster said his goal tion related to social issues, live is a minimum starting salary of streaming board meetings and $50,000 by 2026. school choice vouchers, among The proposals also include putBy LINDSEY HODGES lhodges@indexjournal.com

Jurors hear testimony from housekeeper News 9A

ting $254 million toward state aid to classrooms, $25 million toward education savings accounts, pending approval by the legislature, and a $2,500 retention supplement.

State SuperELLEN intendent of EdWEAVER ucation Ellen Weaver’s budget requests mirror McMaster’s when it comes to her top priorities. She requested $254 million for state aid to classrooms

and funds for retention supplements.

A state Senate bill is seeking to create the Education Scholarship Trust Fund, which would provide funds to families to be used toward costs such as tuition or materials at a participating school, such as a private school.

The Senate has approved the bill, Senate Bill 39, and it is now in the hands of the House of Representatives committee on education and public works.

By LINDSEY HODGES lhodges@indexjournal.com

INSIDE TODAY! BREAST CANCER Awareness

ABOVE: Jazmin Ghent plays her saxophone in the crowd during her show.

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Police chief backs down from GPD’s initial position

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ROCKIN’ OUT AT MATHEWS

They play for GHS, sing for USA

Another object shot out of sky News 5A

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By LINDSEY HODGES lhodges@indexjournal.com

PHOTOS BY DAMIAN DOMINGUEZ | INDEX-JOURNAL

R

Maxwell Axe Co. owner Steve Riley, right, is preparing to open an Uptown location for Emerald Ink and Stitches, one of several change-ups in Uptown.

Run-up to Mardi Gras goes to the dogs News 8A 2A 1D-4D 6B 4A 6C 1B-4B 5C 6A-7A 2A

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Attorney seeks rehearing in Carroll case Students clap along as Greenwood High School senior Freddie McClendon plays music during Friday’s concert.

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Chair Bonnie Disney Shawn Ragin Daniel Palumbo Tarah Johnson Shery Smith

“Vaping is a huge issue in Greenwood District 50,” said Natalie Talbert, safety manager for the district. “From middle schools to the high schools. We have issues with vaping every day.”

District 50 isn’t alone.

“I would say yes, it affects the school operations on a daily basis,” said Maria Tyre, principal at Ware Shoals High School.

“It’s something from a disciplinary standpoint we deal with on a daily basis and with our LINDSEY HODGES | INDEX-JOURNAL board policy with vaping, you have students Dixie High School has a collection of vapes that miss instructional time because of the that have been confiscated over a two-year punishment for it,” said Paul Prescott, principal at Dixie High School. “We catch kids often.” period.

Even though the age to legally purchase toSouth Carolina teenagers currently vape. bacco products, including vapes, is 21, students are getting their hands on them in many ways.

‘It’s daily’ “Part of the problem is that parents allow Schools are dealing with vaping students — or the effects of such — every day.

See VAPING, page 6A

See TEACHERS, page 4A

Ever-changing

UPTOWN Small businesses seek creative approaches

U

By DAMIAN DOMINGUEZ | DDOMINGUEZ@INDEXJOURNAL.COM

ptown’s changing landscape tells a story of small business owners’ hopes and dreams, and Greenwood’s attempts to continue the transformation of its commercial center.

Lara Hudson, Greenwood’s

community development director, has been busy finding a buyer for the building that houses The Floral Case.

Owner Debra Case said she’s looking to retire and has already reduced the size of her business.

See UPTOWN, page 10A

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ock ‘n’ roll wrapped up the first nine weeks of school at Mathews Elementary on Friday.

The school had a rock concert for students as a reward for reaching academic goals and having good behavior.

Longtime US senator dies at 90

See ROCKIN’, page 10A

From staff reports While Tiffany Carroll’s hearing Wednesday before the state Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services did not result in her release as many sought and expected, her saga is not over.

Carroll, a mother of five children, pleaded guilty but mentally ill to a charge of voluntary manslaughter in 2019, after initially being charged with murder following the 2017 killing of 27-year-old William Jamaal Johnson.

Since Carroll’s sentencJOHN ing, many have called for her release. One of those MCCRAVY

people is state Rep. John McCravy. McCravy began his campaign to free Carroll in June, hosting a press conference with her family and friends along with representatives from Beyond Abuse and Meg’s House, nonprofits that help clients deal with trauma from abuse and domestic violence and provide resources for them.

Following the board’s vote to deny parole, McCravy issued a statement: “As a state representative of Greenwood County, I am deeply disappointed in the apparent result and process that is keeping one of my constituents in jail whose only crime was defending herself and her See REHEARING, page 10A

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Students rocked out with Greenwood High School senior Freddie McClendon, who sang for the students and spent some time talking the students through writing a song. The Greenwood High drumline provided some bass for the students to dance to as they made their way to and from the concert.

Greenwood High School senior Freddie McClendon wrote a song with the students’ help during Friday’s concert.

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Attorney Travis Moore, left, and Tiffany Jenae Carroll attend a state parole board hearing Wednesday in Columbia.

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Tucked behind a desk somewhere at Dixie High School is a bag full of vaping devices. In a rainbow’s worth of colors and multiple shapes, the collection of confiscated vapes has been building up for about two years.

It’s been used as a way for the school to educate its teachers on what to look for to identify when students are vaping, an issue that has become a problem in schools.

As vaping becomes more common among teenagers, high school officials say there are issues surrounding the habit daily. They’re seeing students disciplined for illegally possessing devices, while also being worried about the long-term health effects vaping will have and the missed class time caused by vaping.

According to the state Department of Health and Environmental Control, about one in five

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here .

That’s right — autumn is here.

The change of seasons happened on Saturday, Sept.

Sept. 23, and with that comes spice and spooks of all kinds. kinds . If you’re looking to fall into the festive spirit, there are people in places near and far awaiting you to make your acquaintance. acquaintance .

For more than 13 years, Scream Acres Haunted House and Hayride has been provided South Carolinians with scary good time. time .

Rated the state’s top haunted house attraction and featured in the Top 25 Must See Haunts in 2008, the LLC has striven to give back to its community and make its attractions as entertaining as possible — which makes its new features that much more exciting. exciting .

This year, Scream Acres will feature an extended two-mile hayride that includes a new spot, two haunted houses, a walking trail

A killer doctor clown terrorizes the area around Second Mill on a night at the Terror Trail last year in Sumter. This year’s Terror Trail haunted nights begin Oct. 6 at 7:30 p.m.

Index-Journal, Greenwood, S.C. n 1A

Rest in peace of mind.

Plan ahead and don’t leave your loved ones with a burden.

SEE eSTEAM, PAGE A8

Every Friday and Saturday in September and October

alaysha@theitem.com

SUMTER SCHOOL BOARD COMMITTEES Committee Curriculum, Inst. & Assessment Facilities Finance Fine Arts Policy Source: Sumter School District

Find a scoreboard of Friday’s local matchups at facebook.com/ theitemsports and in Tuesday’s paper

B1

Disney, Johnson, Palumbo and Smith take on roles Expect Sumter's school board to start holding more committee meetings after five standing committees were approved and chairpersons named Monday at the trustees’ regularly scheduled monthly meeting.

New committees will include Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment and Fine Arts. They join the Finance, Facilities and Policy committees that have existed for years, and four new chairs will be leading those groups with Shawn Ragin DISNEY being the only carryover chairman from the previous board.

After officially joining the board last month, new trustees shared with Board Chairman the Rev. Ralph Canty their committee interests, and he decided on the official appointJOHNSON ments before the meeting.

The four new chairs are Bonnie Disney (Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment), Tarah Johnson (Fine Arts), Daniel Palumbo (Finance) and Shery Smith (Policy). Ragin was already chairman of the PALUMBO board’s Facilities Committee before winning re-election in November.

Standing committees of the board generally meet monthly.

The Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment Committee may sound familiar to some RAGIN people, and it is.

After Disney was appointed to the local board by the Sumter County Legislative Delegation in July 2017 when local lawmakers initially expanded the board to nine members, she was also named chairperson of SMITH that committee when it was initially brought on by the board that fall. The district’s superintendent at the time was Debbie Hamm. Hamm served two years in an interim role as the district’s leader after Frank Baker retired in 2017

Nation

Saturday, February 11, 2023

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS

AFCENT brings big-name industries to Sumter for Innovation Day at Shaw Sumter got an economic spotlight this week with the help of its military neighbors from Ninth Air Force.

On Wednesday, Air Forces Central and its Task Force 99 team opened its doors, and minds, to new technologies from industries across

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A closer look at Tammy Davis Ruth, INSIDE

SUNDAY, Y February 12, 2023

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Tammy Davis Ruth Email SundayBest@aikenstandar d.com

‘Connecting service to

BY Y LARRY ARRY WOOD WOO Con Contributor

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purpose’ p p e is alumni director’s

ammy Davis Ruth, uth, USC U Aiken’s direct di tor of alumni director alu i rela rltions, has hascomefullcir come full cir circle cle sinc since shee was shewa wasa s a stude t d nt at the tudent the univ un niver versit enga sity en ngagi ging gi ng wit wiith hstud studentt organizati studento rganization rganiz nizations ons and d the the com communityy beyond beyond. y A senior senior sen iorr internship inte nternship p with wi Help Helpin He elping ping Han Hands ng ndss led leed R Ruth, Ruth, wh who o ggraduated duaated iin n 2004, 2004 2004 to a long invol inv involve volve vem ment with th the agenc agency ag ency, which whic wh cy, hich ch se serve erves ves ab abused, d, aba a ndon ndoned oned ed and and neg d eglect egle glected cted d cchildren chil hildren. Later, teer, she work ter worked w ked with with d th tthe Unit United ted Way ayy of A Aiken iken County, ik Coun C nty, ano anoth otheer nonprofit onprofit nprofit profit that fights healt ealth h, ed educ edu ducaation and financia“for the ciaal sstab abilityy offevery it eve yper y perso person rs in every community mun unity,” nity ” accord ac ording to iits web we ite. webs i The skills Ruth learn Th rn ne and honed at Helping Hands andrned He ni ed Way have nited translated into her United n as a alumni director, and they position all share a com ommon mm denominator: purposeful ment ent.

“I always credit USC engagemen Aiken for intro ntro tro ducing me to the oAiken community,” ommunity,” m said d Ruth, who wh grew up iin n Ham Hampton, about 50 mi miles les southeast i Carolina’s na’s Lowc Low Lowcountry. “I ha n South ad who lived liv i here, here and we’d com an aunt me up for Thank hanksgivi an nk ng. But u I didn’t’ kn now much now about ab b it. I came tto o USC Aiken, got really active as a studeent en and fell in love with this place, not ju ust the universsity itself but the commun nity.” ni She engaged with wi Circle K, an international collegiat atization and a service leadership prograam am of Kiwanis International, and with otther th student leaadership organizations that att volunteered with the nonprofit f commu un to providee com unity om mmunity servicee.

“I had a love vvee ffor service and was intri rrigued by the non nonp nprofit of community in Aiken, not something somethingtha tha hatt exi ha existed in myy hometown,”Ruthsaid metown, etown, Ruth Ru uth said. “Lots “Lot of ofourcom f our four ur com community unity service service was through through our chu h rch hur or through h gh some of th the nursing homes or being a candy striper st at the t e hospital.”

After graduation, drawing on her exdra exx perience as an intern, Ruth h worked for Help elpiing Hands Hand for about th three years as thecommu th e community nity outreachandvolun treach and volunt n eer coordinator She also coordinator. helped lped market marketthe the Triple p Crown CrownG wn Golf GolfClassic lfCl Cl Cla c, atou a tournament that continues today ssic, to raise money for Helpingg Han Helpin ands ds aand nd the he Tri-Deve Tri-D v lop lopment Center. me In 2007 2007, 007, R Ruth th took time time off ff ffor gradu graduate school att Pa Pace U Univer Univ versity in in New N Yorkk to “learn learn the inner inneerr workings w ki off a nonprofit nonprofit.” non profit profit. p fi ” In n 2009 2009, she earned earned daM Mas Master off P Public bli Admin Administratio istration ation degree degree in nonprofit f m

Aiken could start to pay off $9.6M Pascalis bonds

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Vol. 157, No. 43 || AIKEN, S.C.

AIK ENS TANDARD.COM

Winter wonderland

BY MATTHEW CHRISTIAN mchristian@aikenstandard.com

FIRST PLACE Aiken Standard

The city of Aiken could take the first step toward paying off the $9.6 million bond it issued to allow t he A i ken Mu nicipa l Development Commission to pu rcha se t he properties for Project Pascalis.

O n t h e a ge nd a for Monday’s City CounBedenbaugh cil meeting is the first reading of an ordinance amending the city’s budget to include the $26.2 million the city received from the state’s plutonium settlement with the Department of Energy.

Projects in Aiken County received $168.85 million from the settlement including $25 million for downtown and northside improvements in the city and $1.2 million for the Generations Park improvements.

Aiken City Manager Stuart Bedenbaugh said in a memorandum to the city council the state’s Joint Bond Review Committee recently voted to approve the distribution of city’s funds to Aiken County. He adds the funds will be remitted by the county to the city.

The city council held two worksessions to discuss what projects to fund and its plan is to allocate $9.6 million to repay the bonds issued to purchase the properties that were included in Project Pascalis, $3.5 million for the northside gravity sewer, $3 million for the Fairfield Street Bridge repair and $1.2 million for improvements at Beverly D. Clyburn Generations Park.

The city purchased Hotel Aiken, the building behind it on Laurens Street, all of the buildings from Bee Lane to Newberry Street including the C.C. Johnson Building, the Warneke Cleaners building, Newberry Hall and the former State Farm office in November 2021 using the proceeds from a bond.

But the $75 million-plus redevelopment for the properties known as Project Pascalis failed. The project was stopped by the Aiken Municipal Development Commission in September.

The proposed developer of the project, RPM Development Partners, withdrew in September.

The current proposal – nothing has been f inalized – is for a Savannah River National Laboratory workforce development center to be constructed in place of the Holley House, Warneke Cleaners building (they would move to Richland Avenue) and possibly the Taj Aiken building.

A request for proposal would be issued to seek developers for the vacant hotel and the building behind it.

The C.C. Johnson Building and the buildings adjacent to it on Richland Avenue would be renovated and restored.

Bedenbaugh added the remaining $8.9 million will be placed into a special holding account until the council decides how to spend it.

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Cost of doing business AP PHOTO/ALEX BRANDON

Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., speaks with a reporter on Capitol Hill in 2019. Feinstein of California has died. She was 90.

Sen. Dianne Feinstein dies at age 90

BY MICHAEL BLOOD, MARY CLARE JALONICK, LISA MASCARO AND MICHAEL BALSAMO Associated Press PHOTOS COURTESY OF MAGGIE FOX

Left: A snow man is pictured during the Aiken snow storm in 1973. Top middle: The Aiken Standard reported Feb. 12 that 1415 inches of snow had fallen locally. Bottom middle: A young boy plays in the snow. Right: A group of children pose beside a snowman during a snow storm in 1973.

1973 blizzard created fond memories, havoc

BY DEDE BILES dbiles@aikenstandard.com Fifty years ago, the United States ended its involvement in the Vietnam War after the signing of the Paris Peace Accords and Secretariat became the first thoroughbred since Citation in 1948 to win the Triple Crown.

Another reason why 1973 was notable, especially in this part of the country, was an event known to many as “The Great Southeastern Snowstorm.”

From Feb. 9-11, a blizzard covered the region from southeast Alabama to eastern North Carolina with a white blanket that was one- to two-feet thick, ck, acac

“Even though snow was in the forecast, we weren’t expecting this kind of blizzard because we live in the South. We didn’t have the know-how or the equipment to handle that kind of thing. It was totally unexpected, and it had a big impact.”

Lessie Price, Aiken City Council member cording to the National Weather Service.

The Aiken Standard reported Feb. 12 that 14-15 inches of snow had fallen locally, beating the previous record of 11 inches established in 1914.

A i ken Cou nt y Cou ncil Chairman Andrrew Siders and V Van Smith, ow n ne r of t he upscca le men’s clot hing store

Lionel Smith Ltd., were youngsters back then and have fond memories of Aiken as a winter wonderland.

“It was a magical place,” Siders said. “I was super excited. When I woke up, there was snow everyy

where. It was amazing.”

And Siders had lots of fun.

“My father pulled me around on the top of a garbage can lid,” he said. “He tied a rope to it or something, and he slung me all over the place.”

The family’s dog, a pointer named Chopper, also had a good time.

“He was jumping around everywhere,” Siders said. “He didn’t know what to do.”

Smith went outside and made snow angels.

He also went on a walk with his dad, Lionel Smith, who founded the clothing store that bears his name, and others in the neighborhood.

“I remember him and another father getting together a bunch of kids, and we went up to the grocery store – maybe Please see WINTER, page 8A PHOTOS COURTESY OF MAGGIE FOX

Le eft: A woman and a child put the finishing touches on a snowman during the Aiken snow storm in 1973. Middle: A yyoung boy stands beside a snowman in 1973. Right: A you ung girl stands beside a snowman in 1973.

Please see BONDS, page 8A

3 weeks, dozens of witnesses: Takeaways from Murdaugh trial

BY JEFFREY COLLINS Associated Press

JOSHUA BOUCHER/THE STATE/AP

Alex Murdaugh listens to his friend Chris Wilson testify during his double murder trial at the Colleton County Courthouse on Feb. 9 in Walterboro.

Three weeks into disgraced South Carolina attorney Alex Murdaugh’s double murder trial, prosecutors have called dozens of witnesses offering wide-ranging – and sometimes disjointed – testimony.

Jurors have heard from the investigators who found the bodies of Murdaugh’s wife and son, and technicians who found gunshot residue, cracked open cellphones to get videos and tested dozens of ammunition casings.

They’ve heard from betrayed law firm employees, heartbroken friends of Murdaugh and his family, and a man whose insurance settlement was stolen after his mother, the Murdaughs’ housekeeper, died in a fall at their home.

But witnesses have been called

“This is piling on. This is more trying to prejudice the jury into believing somehow someone who steals a bunch of money in any way whatever would commit a murder.”

Dick Harpootlian, Murdaugh’s lawyer i n d isorga ni zed g roups a nd tantalizing scraps of evidence have been introduced but not explained. The defense hopes to start its case in middle of next week and had planned a week of testimony but is rethinking that because of the trial’s length.

Here are some key takeaways from the trial so far.

Financial crimes

Murdaugh, 54, is charged with murder in the deaths of 52-yearold Maggie, shot several times

with a rif le, and their 22-yearold son, Paul, shot twice with a shotgun at kennels near their Colleton County home on June 7, 2021. He faces 30 years to life in prison if convicted.

The disbarred lawyer also faces about 100 other charges ranging from stealing money from clients to running a drug and money laundering ring.

Much of the week’s testimony focused on whether Murdaugh

Please see PASCALIS, page 6A

Please see FEINSTEIN, page 4A

SUBMITTED PHOTO

The preliminary Project Pascalis plans called for the conveyance of the right of way of part of Newberry Street between Richland Avenue and Park Avenue to RPM Development Partners to allow for the construction of an apartment complex and parking deck.

The Project Pascalis plans called for the demolition of the Hotel Aiken and its replacement by a more modern hotel.

Project Pascalis has cost taxpayers more than $10M

BY MATTHEW CHRISTIAN mchristian@aikenstandard.com

ment complex a nd pa rk ing deck. Later, plans to convert the former Municipal Building into a conference center were added.

Less than a year later, Project Pascalis was dead thanks to public dissent and multiple lawsuits.

T he A M DC met Sept. 30, 2022, and voted to cancel the project. The mixed-use building that could house a Savannah River National Laboratory workforce development center was announced as a replacement project in January.

As it pursued the development project, the commission spent

The Aiken Municipal Development Commission met one year ago today and voted to end the $75-million development effort known as Project Pascalis.

Aiken Economic Development Director Tim O’Briant announced Project Pascalis to the community on Dec. 3, 2021.

Plans included demolishing the Hotel Aiken and Beckman Building and building a modern hotel, demolishing several buildings east of the hotel and replacing them with an apart-

more than $10 million, according to city records reviewed by the Aiken Standard.

Those records do not include all expenses and costs associated with the project.

Known expenses

The Ai ken Municipa l Development Commission spent nearly $10 million acquiring property.

For Project Pascalis, it acquired: • Hotel Aiken and the Holley House for $4.25 million; • the Taj Aiken building, the Joh nson Dr ug Store bu i ld-

Aiken Corp. didn’t pick old hospital site. Here’s what we know

BY MATTHEW CHRISTIAN mchristian@aikenstandard.com Four days before Aiken Corporation voted 10-0 to recommend that Aiken City Council pursue constructing a mixed-use building at 133 and 141 Newberry Street, several people told the Aiken Corporation they wanted to see the mixed-use building on the old Aiken County Hospital site.

However, the old hospital was the first site rejected by the architectural firm, McMillan Pazdan Smith, hired to perform a feasibility study on the potential of building the building.

Here’s what we know about that decision.

Old hospital site added to study after public comments

In late 2022, the Aiken Corp. “engaged” McMillan Pazdan Smith to perform a feasibility study on the potential of building a mixed-use building that could house a Savannah River National Laboratory workforce development center.

K.J. Jacobs, a principal at the firm, said in a letter sent Friday, Sept. 22, that the study was initially focused on the Holley House, the Warneke Cleaners building and possibly the Taj Aiken building in downtown Aiken.

Buzz Rich, chairman of the Aiken Corp. board, said the study was expanded eight or nine weeks

ago to include four more sites: the two empty lots on Newberry Street; the parking lot next to the Municipal Building; the former Department of Public Safety headquarters; and the old hospital site.

There was no vote or notification of the public that the study had been expanded.

“The expansion really didn’t happen until fairly recently,” Rich said. “For most of the months, what they were looking at was the size of the building and what did the lab need. They had numerous conversations with the lab folks to see what would work for them. …

That was fairly recently.”

Please see HOSPITAL, page 4A

AIKEN STANDARD FILE PHOTO

Tracey Turner, developer of the old Aiken County Hospital, asks if the site has been eliminated for consideration as a potential site of a building that could house a Savannah River National Laboratory workforce development center.

Index Classifieds .....................................6B Crossword .................... 2C, 4C, 9C

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ing and the Warneke Cleaners building for $2.25 million; • the Newberry Hall building for $2 million; and • the Beckman building for $1 million.

The commission a lso paid the Aiken Chamber of Commerce $135,000 for the right to purchase the Project Pascalis properties.

In tota l, avai lable records indicate the Aiken Municipal D e velopment C om m i s sion spent $9.81 million acquiring property.

WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein of California, a centrist Democrat who was elected to the Senate in 1992 in the “Year of the Woman” and broke gender barriers throughout her long career in local and national politics, has died.

She was 90.

Three people familiar with the situation confirmed her death to The Associated Press on Friday.

Feinstein, the oldest sitting U.S. senator, was a passionate advocate for liberal priorities important to her state — including environmental protection, reproductive rights and gun control — but was also known as a pragmatic lawmaker who reached out to Republicans and sought middle ground.

She was elected to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in 1969 and became its first female president in 1978, the year Mayor George Moscone was gunned down alongside Supervisor Harvey Milk at City Hall by Dan White, a disgruntled former supervisor. Feinstein found Milk’s body.

After Moscone’s death, Feinstein became San Francisco’s first female mayor. In the Senate, she was one of California’s first two female senators, the first woman to head the

AIKEN STANDARD FILE PHOTO

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The ‘Cost of doing business,’ story was nicely put together & the “Winter Wonderland” also good coverage mixed with some op-ed content. Thank you!

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Residents question missing $200K to renovate Bluffton field

Shutdown would halt pay for Beaufort-area military members

BY SEBASTIAN LEE

slee@islandpacket.com BLUFFTON, SC

A historically Black baseball field in Bluffton that’s been in disrepair for years has received about $200,000 in government funds since 2006, leaving the

nearby community wondering why more hasn’t been done with the money.

“You can go into any other community and see that these kids have quality, fun, safe amenities for them to play on,” said Sharon Brown, who lives a few houses from the field. “Our kids [have] to come here on this.

They deserve so much more.”

Eagles Field, located at Buck Island Road and Bluffton Parkway features broken glass and dilapidated buildings. There was hope 10 years ago the field would be renovated when The Island Packet and Beaufort Gazette wrote about conditions there, but that hasn’t happened.

BY LISA MASCARO, KEVIN FREKING AND STEPHEN GROVES

Associated Press

The scoreboard at Eagles Field.

“Eagles Field is currently in horrible condition and no updates or improvements have been made. Windows are shat-

tered, dugouts falling apart, debris everywhere,” another SEE FIELD, 8A

BY MARY DIMITROV

mdimitrov@islandpacket.com

for 2023 but its mandatory base club fee went up $150 a month, from $4,895 to $6,695 annually in last three years.

“We’re not just a bunch of whiny homeowners,” Palmetto Bluff resident Laurie Monroe said of the recent 37% mandatory base club fee jump, which

Following is a list of communities in Beaufort County that may assess Property Owners Association, Homeowners Association and club fees. The fees are, in most cases, a comparison of 2023 annual fees with those charged in 2021, and the percentage increase.

Some fees haven’t been released yet for 2023. The list doesn’t include special assessment fees, such as a limitedtime fee to pay for a new clubhouse.

Spring Island $27,755; historical information wasn’t available Colleton River $27,125, up 15% from $23,565 Berkeley Hall $24,320, up 23% from $19,769 Belfair $20,588, up 24% increase from $16,646 Wexford $18,860, up 16% from $16,325 Haig Point $17,962 up 40% from $12,800 Long Cove $16,458, up 28% from $12,865 Callawassie Island $15,714, up 22% from $12,926 Palmetto Bluff $11,210, up 26% from $8,869 (Represents 2023 mandatory

SEE COMMUNITIES, 9A

SEE POA FEES, 9A

File photo

The Haig Point from Daufuskie Island ferry sidles up to the dock at Buckingham Landing in Bluffton.

POA fees skyrocketing in Beaufort County gated communities mdimitrov@islandpacket.com

Some of Beaufort County’s gated communities are increasing their annual property owners association fees by thousands, pricing some homeowners out and sidelining prospective buyers.

In the past three years, at least 10 communities have raised their fees more than the 14% rate of inflation during that period, according to a survey by The Island Packet and Beaufort Gazette.

Haig Point, Long Cove and Palmetto Bluff have had the largest increases, raising their POA fees more than 25%. Haig

Point went from $12,800 in 2021 to $17,962 this year and Long Cove went from $12,694 in 2021 to at least $16,458 this year.

Palmetto Bluff’s annual fees — a POA and mandatory base club fee — went from $8,869 in 2021 to at least $11,210 this year. Palmetto Bluff has not announced a POA fee increase

Cellphone video, guns become focus in Murdaugh trial

BY JOHN MONK AND TED CLIFFORD

jmonk@thestate.com tclifford@thestate.com WALTERBORO, S.C.

By the time the second week of Alex Murdaugh’s double-murder trial had wrapped up Friday, jurors had heard from 26 witnesses as prosecutors used their testimony to serve up a case based on a mix of time-tested information, such

as ballistics, and 21st century evidence such as Snapchat videos and cellphone data.

Earlier in the week, prosecutors used cellphones to portray the horror of the last few minutes of the lives of unsuspecting Paul Murdaugh and his mother, Maggie, who were at the family estate’s dog kennels shortly before 9 pm on the night of June 7, 2021, when someone gunned them down. Videos and texts from their cellphones in

the minutes and hours before the killings showed they had no idea of their fate.

And one piece of cellphone data — a 58-second video found on Paul’s phone — was perhaps the trial’s most-dramatic moment so far. The video, shot by Paul at the dog kennels, was identified by other witnesses as capturing Alex Murdaugh’s voice just minutes before the killings. If true, the revelation would undermine what has been

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until now Murdaugh’s alibi — that he was nowhere near the dog kennels that night until he discovered the bodies of his wife and son about 10 p.m.

Murdaugh, 54, a disgraced attorney from a prominent Lowcountry family, is accused of killing his wife, Maggie, and son, Paul, on the family’s 1,700acre estate known as Moselle.

The weapons in the case — a shotgun that killed Paul and a .300 Blackout assault-style rifle that killed Maggie — have never been found.

As the week played out, defense attorneys Dick Harpootlian and Jim Griffin showed no signs of giving up and were using their right to cross-exam-

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ine state witnesses to try to show weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

Late Friday, Griffin hammered State Law Enforcement Division firearms expert Paul Greer over Greer’s insinuation on direct examination that a .300 Blackout assault rifle found in a gun room in the Murdaughs’ house could have been the weapon that killed Maggie; Paul was killed with a shotgun.

After Greer identified spent Blackout cartridge shells found

by Maggie’s body as having identical markings on them as old, weathered Blackout shells found by a side door near the SEE MURDAUGH, 7A

DREW MARTIN dmartin@islandpacket.com

Taylor Lewis, a manager at Beaufort’s Fat Patties restaurant – just seconds from Marine Recruit Depot Parris Island’s main gate – talks about the specials the restaurant offers to the military on Sept. 28, 2023. Besides a 25% discount on Military Mondays, the restaurant gives new Marines a free burger on their graduation Friday. Lewis said if the looming government shutdown would occur it could be a horrible hit to the local economy.

BY KARL PUCKETT

kapuckett@islandpacket.com

A sign at Fat Patties in Port Royal advertises “military Monday” — when members of the military get 25 percent off. The burger joint is located on Parris Island Gateway, just a brisk jog from Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, where 20,000 men and women each year are trained to be marines.

“We love the military here,” says Taylor Lewis, a manager at Fat Patties.

But along with other area businesses that heavily cater to

the men and women in uniform, Fat Patties would feel the impact of an extended government shutdown, which was still looming as of Friday. A shutdown would stop the pay for 1.3 million active-duty troops — including 10,571 based in Beaufort County.

“This is a huge mess and here we at are midnight the night before an exam and we are just starting to study,” Congresswoman Nancy Mace, whose district includes Beaufort County, told Fox News’ Neal Cavuto on Wednesday.

However, Col. Neal Pugliese, a retired Marine who is chair-

man of the Military Enhancement Committee of Beaufort County, says “functionally speaking, no one is felling the pain just yet.” That’s because Marines were paid on Oct. 28, so the impact would not be felt until the middle of October.

“It will be disruptive,” Pugliese says of a shutdown, “but it won’t be catastrophic.”

That said, there will be impacts, Pugliese says. One is that some civilians who work on the base will be furloughed.

Congress must fund the government or pass a continuing resolution by the end of the fiscal year by midnight Sunday

Will government shutdown impact Hilton Head area schools?

BY MARY DIMITROV

mdimitrov@islandpacket.com

Free and reduced lunch programs, bus services and teaching at Beaufort County schools will continue should the federal government shut down, according to spokesperson Candace

Bruder.

Federal government funding will run out at the end of the day on Saturday, Sept. 30 and the federal government will shut down if Congress doesn’t pass the legislation required for the coming fiscal year, which starts Oct. 1.

Bruder said that a shutdown

could mean the district will receive delayed reimbursements for the free and reduced lunch programs from the United States Department of Agriculture funds that flow through the state nutrition office, but there will be no interruption in service for students.

to avoid a government shutdown. If it doesn’t, the U.S government will shut down at 12:01 a.m. Sunday.

If a shutdown occurs, the nation’s military members, the Biden White House says, will continue working every day to keep they country safe, but won’t receive paychecks until funding becomes available.

They will receive back pay once it reopens. The last government shutdown, in 2019, lasted 35 days.

The stoppage of income for soldiers would, in turn, slow

The United States found itself on the brink of a federal government shutdown after hard-right Republicans in Congress rejected a longshot effort to keep offices open as they fight for steep spending cuts and strict border security measures that Democrats and the White House say are too extreme.

With no deal in place by midnight Saturday, federal workers will face furloughs, more than 2 million active-duty and reserve military troops will work without pay, and programs and services that Americans rely on from coast to coast will begin to face shutdown disruptions.

The Senate convened for a rare Saturday session to advance its own bipartisan package that is supported by Democrats and Republicans and would fund the government for the short term, through Nov. 17.

But it wouldn’t be enough to prevent an almost certain shutdown amid the chaos in the House. On Friday, a massive hard-right revolt left Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s latest plan to collapse.

“Congress has only one option to avoid a shutdown — bipartisanship,” said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky echoed the sentiment, warning his own hard-right colleagues there is nothing to gain by shutting down the federal government.

“It heaps unnecessary hard-

BY MARISA IATI

Washington Post

Democratic and Republican colleagues of Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D), who represented California in the Senate for more than three decades, paid tribute to her Friday as a trailblazer and a public servant after she died

Thursday night at age 90.

Addressing the chamber on Friday, Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) opened with a moment of silence for Feinstein. A black cloth was draped over Feinstein’s desk, with a vase of white roses resting on top.

Schumer said Feinstein’s most striking trait was her integrity,

down doors that were closed for women,” Schumer said. “She held them open for generations of women after her to follow her.”

Feinstein’s fellow senator from California, Alex Padilla (D), said his colleague “broke barriers.”

“Her leadership as the City of San Francisco’s first female mayor in the aftermath of the

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D nY >> tŲ tHbV n tŲ

Meals at 25 of Beaufort County’s 37 schools are provided at no cost to all enrolled students without requiring applications.

If students are impacted by a parent or guardian being furloughed due to the shutdown the district’s social workers will work to connect them with local agencies as appropriate, Bruder said.

Mary Dimitrov: (843) 940-8964, @mary_dimitrov

tragic assassination of Mayor

versity,” Padilla said in a statement.

Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), who previously served as House speaker, hailed Feinstein’s tenure as San Francisco’s mayor at the height of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and her service as the first woman to lead the Senate Intelligence Committee.

“Her indomitable, indefatigable leadership made a magnif-

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¿njŠɴŠ ÿɴŠ ÿ ȅ˄ǷĚŠɴ ȝƆ ˬÿ˴ɻ ʤȝ ĵŠǨŠĚɴÿʤŠ Ǩÿĵǥ Wǔɻʤȝɴ˴ ȝȅʤnj ǔȅ ʤnjŠ ˴ɴʤǨŠ Šÿĵnj ÿɴŠÿɎ LŠĚɴ˄ÿɴ˴ ǥǔĵǥɻ ȝƆƆ ˬǔʤnj Ǩÿĵǥ Wǔɻʤȝɴ˴ ȝȅʤnj ĚŠƳǔȅȅǔȅƳ LŠĚɎ Ȩ ʤnjɴȝ˄Ƴnj ÿɴĵnj ȨɎ Ǩÿĵǥ Wǔɻʤȝɴ˴ ȝȅʤnj ǔɻ ÿ ǷȝȅʤnjǒǨȝȅƳ ÿȅȅ˄ÿǨ ȝĚɻŠɴ˪ÿȅĵŠɎ Ǩÿĵǥ Wǔɻʤȝɴ˴ ȝȅʤnj njȝȅȝɴɻ ÿǨǨ

Ǩÿĵǥ ȽŠȝȽǨŠ ƆɴȝǷ ÿǨǨ ȽŠɴǔȝŊɻ ȝƆ ÉɎµɎ njǔɻʤȝɴ˴Ň ƆɴȝǷ ʤnjŠ ŠȅɻǨÿ˪ŠŊ ȽŠȝȽǨŠ Ɔǔɴɻʤ Ěɴȝ˄Ƴnjʤ ȝ˪Šɴ ƆɴȝǷ Ɔɴǔĵÿ ǔȅ ʤnjŠ ŠÿɴǨ˴ Ȩʃʤnj ĵŠȅʤ˄ɴ˴ ʤȝ Ɔɴǔĵÿȅ ǷŠɴǔĵÿȅɻ Ǩǔ˪ǔȅƳ ǔȅ ʤnjŠ ÉȅǔʤŠŊ µʤÿʤŠɻ ʤȝŊÿ˴Ɏ ¿njǔɻ ˴Šÿɴɰɻ ʤnjŠǷŠ Ɔȝɴ Ǩÿĵǥ Wǔɻʤȝɴ˴ ȝȅʤnj ǔɻ ɪ Ǩÿĵǥ ®Šɻǔɻʤǒ ÿȅĵŠɎɬ ɪ Ǩÿĵǥ ®ŠɻǔɻʤÿȅĵŠɬ ǔɻ ŊŠŊǔĵÿʤŠŊ ʤȝ ʤnjŠ ǨŠƳÿĵ˴ ȝƆ Ɔɴǔǒ ĵÿȅǒ ǷŠɴǔĵÿȅ ĵ˄Ǩʤ˄ɴŠ ǔȅ ǷŠɴǒ ǔĵÿɎ አnjÿ˪Š Ƚ˄ʤ ÿ Ǩǔɻʤ ʤȝƳŠʤnjŠɴ Ɔȝɴ

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ʥɵǔĶnjĀɵŊɼȞȆęʥnjŠɼ˅ȆȆŠˮɼɏĶȞǸ

˴ȝ˄ ʤȝ ÿʤʤŠȅŊ Š˪Šȅʤɻ ÿȅŊ ȽŠɴǒ ƆȝɴǷÿȅĵŠɻɎ .]t H& CtV]> +µ ƭV+t]+C n.]+ HbV VHH]YƮ ¿njŠ ĵǔʤ˴ ȝƆ ˴ɴʤǨŠ Šÿĵnj ˬǔǨǨ njȝɻʤ ǔʤɻ ÿȅȅ˄ÿǨ Ǩÿĵǥ Wǔɻʤȝɴ˴ ȝȅʤnj ĵŠǨŠĚɴÿʤǔȝȅ ȝȅ µÿʤɎŇ LŠĚɎ ʹƖɎ ¿njǔɻ ˴Šÿɴɰɻ ĵŠǨŠĚɴÿʤǔȝȅ ǔɻ ɪ®nj˴ʤnjǷ ˬǔʤnj ˄ɴ ®ȝȝʤɻŅ ŠǨŠĚɴÿʤǔȝȅ ȝƆ Ǩÿĵǥ ˄ɻǔĵÿǨ WŠɴǔʤÿƳŠɎɬ

9 YHD > ŝŢúú ǕŋúƹǬŰŰúȎƹ

'}ŒŢ 9ú}ŰŐ9}§ƧǬúƹ ºúũŽŰƹǕƳ}Ǖúƹ ƹȎúúǕ ĵƳ}ƹƹ }ƹşúǕ ũ}şŒŰĵ ĖŽƳ §ŋŒŢºƳúŰ }Ǖ 9}țț &úƹǕ ŒŰ CȔƳǕŢú ú}§ŋ ŽŰ H§ǕƠ Ƈ· ǥȟƇLJƠ

ánjŠɴŠŅ ÿɴ˴ ÿȅʤ˴ ®ŠĵɴŠǒ ÿʤǔȝȅ ĵŠȅʤŠɴŇ ȊʃȨ ÿȅÿǨ µʤɎŇ ˴ɴǒ ʤǨŠ Šÿĵnj ánjŠȅŅ µÿʤɎŇ LŠĚɎ ʹƖŇ ʎ ȽɎǷɎ ŊŊǔʤǔȝȅÿǨ Š˪Šȅʤ ŊŠʤÿǔǨɻŅ ¿ȝ

statement.

Female senators, in particular, thanked Feinstein for paving the way for other women in politics.

“Dianne Feinstein was a force to be reckoned with. She was one of the most powerful voices in the Senate, and she blazed a trail for generations of women who followed her into elected SEE FEINSTEIN, 11A

YbD t H ]H V ř ƷDZƷƬ

Ç÷Ųņņ

¿njŠ ƆÿǷǔǨ˴ ȝƆ ÿ ȝɴʤnj ÿɴǒ ȝǨǔȅÿ Ƿÿȅ ɻnjȝʤ ÿȅŊ ǥǔǨǨŠŊ ŠÿɴǨǔŠɴ ʤnjǔɻ Ƿȝȅʤnj ǔȅ ʤnjŠ zȝȅƳɻ ÿɴŠÿ ǔɻ ɡ˄ŠɻʤǔȝȅǔȅƳ ʤnjŠ ǔȅ˪ŠɻʤǔƳÿʤǔȝȅŇ ǔȅĵǨ˄ŊǔȅƳ ˬnj˴ ȽȝǨǔĵŠ njÿ˪Šȅɰʤ ÿĵɡ˄ǔɴŠŊ ĵŠǨǨȽnjȝȅŠɻ ʤnjÿʤ Ƿÿ˴ ĵȝȅʤÿǔȅ Š˪ǔŊŠȅĵŠ ʤȝ ʤnjŠ ʤˬȝ ǷŠȅ ÿǨǨŠƳŠŊǨ˴ ǔȅ˪ȝǨ˪ŠŊɎ LÿǷǔǨ˴ ǷŠǷĚŠɴɻ ȝƆ µĵȝʤʤ µȽǔ˪Š˴ ÿȅŊ ʤˬȝ Wȝɴɴ˴ ȝ˄ȅʤ˴

ȝ˄ȅĵǔǨ ǷŠǷĚŠɴɻ ǷŠʤ ˬǔʤnj ȽȝǨǔĵŠ ǔȅ˪ŠɻʤǔƳÿʤȝɴɻ µŠȽʤɎ ʹʎ ʤȝ ɴŠǒ ĵŠǔ˪Š ǔȅƆȝɴǷÿʤǔȝȅ ȝȅ ˬnjÿʤ ǷǔƳnjʤ njÿ˪Š ǨŠŊ ʤȝ ʤnjŠ Y§ŽǕǕ YƖŒȍúȔ ŊŠÿʤnj ȝƆ µȽǔ˪Š˴Ň ʪʪŇ ȝƆ ¿ÿĚȝɴ ǔʤ˴Ɏ Wȝɴɴ˴ ȝ˄ȅʤ˴ ¨ȝǨǔĵŠ ÿȅŊ µȝ˄ʤnj ÿɴȝǨǔȅÿ zÿˬ .ȅƆȝɴĵŠǷŠȅʤ (ǔ˪ǔɻǔȝȅ ÿɴŠ ǔȅ˪ŠɻʤǔƳÿʤǔȅƳ ʤnjŠ ĵÿɻŠɎ (˄ɴǔȅƳ ʤnjÿʤ ǷŠŠʤǔȅƳŇ ÿʤʤŠȅŊǒ

ŠŠɻ ˬŠɴŠ ʤȝǨŊ ʤnjÿʤ ȽȝǨǔĵŠ ȅȝ ǨȝȅƳŠɴ njÿ˪Š ʤnjŠ ȽnjȝȅŠɻ ÿȅŊ ʤnjÿʤ ʤnjŠ˴ ˬŠɴŠ ĚŠǔȅƳ ǥŠȽʤ Ě˴ ʤnjŠ ʤˬȝ ǷŠȅɰɻ ÿʤʤȝɴȅŠ˴ɻŇ ÿĵĵȝɴŊǔȅƳ ʤȝ Ƿ˄ǨʤǔȽǨŠ ɻȝ˄ɴĵŠɻ ƆÿǷǔǨǔÿɴ ˬǔʤnj ʤnjŠ ǷŠŠʤǔȅƳ ˬnjȝ ˬŠɴŠ ƳɴÿȅʤŠŊ ÿȅȝȅ˴Ƿǔʤ˴ ĚŠĵÿ˄ɻŠ ȝƆ ʤnjŠ ɻŠȅɻǔǒ ʤǔ˪ǔʤ˴ ȝƆ ʤnjŠ ǔȅ˪ŠɻʤǔƳÿʤǔȝȅɎ ¨ȝǨǔĵŠ ÿɴŠ ʤɴ˴ǔȅƳ ʤȝ ƳŠʤ ÿĵĵŠɻɻ ʤȝ ʤnjŠ ȽnjȝȅŠɻ ʤȝ ɴŠʤɴǔŠ˪Š ǔȅǒ ƆȝɴǷÿʤǔȝȅ ǒ ȝȅŠ ˬnjǔĵnj ǔɻ ȅȝʤ ǨȝĵÿʤŠŊ ǔȅ Wȝɴɴ˴ ȝ˄ȅʤ˴Ň ʤnjŠ ɻȝ˄ɴĵŠɻ ɻÿǔŊɎ ¿njŠ ĵŠǨǨȽnjȝȅŠɻŇ ÿĵĵȝɴŊǔȅƳ ʤȝ

ʤnjŠ ɻȝ˄ɴĵŠɻŇ ĵȝȅʤÿǔȅŠŊ ɻ˄ĵnj ǔȅƆȝɴǷÿʤǔȝȅ ÿɻ Ƚnjȝʤȝɻ ÿȅŊ ˪ǔŊŠȝ ʤÿǥŠȅ ʤnjŠ ȅǔƳnjʤ ȝƆ ʤnjŠ ɻnjȝȝʤǔȅƳɎ ¿njŠ Ƚnjȝʤȝɻ ÿǨɻȝ ÿǨǨŠƳŠŊǨ˴ ɻnjȝˬŠŊ Ě˄ǨǨŠʤ njȝǨŠɻ ʤnjÿʤ ɴǔŊŊǨŠŊ µĵȝʤʤ µȽǔ˪Š˴ɰɻ ʤɴ˄ĵǥ ÿȅŊ ǔȅ ʤnjŠ ˬǔȅŊɻnjǔŠǨŊ ȝƆ ʤnjŠ ÿǨǨŠƳŠŊ ɻnjȝȝǒ ʤŠɴɎ áŠǨŊȝȅ ȝ˴ŊŇ ˬnjȝ ȝȽŠɴÿʤŠɻ ˄ȝ˴ɻ ȝȅ ʤnjŠ ȝ˄ǨŠ˪ÿɴŊ ÿǨȝȅƳ µȝ˄ʤnj ĵŠÿȅ ȝ˄ǨŠ˪ÿɴŊ ǔȅ ȝɴʤnj ˴ɴʤǨŠ ŠÿĵnjŇ njÿɻ ĚŠŠȅ ȅÿǷŠŊ ÿɻ ÿȅ ÿǨǨŠƳŠŊ ɻnjȝȝʤŠɴ ǔȅ ʤnjŠ ƆÿʤÿǨ ǔȅĵǔŊŠȅʤŇ ÿĵĵȝɴŊǔȅƳ ʤȝ ʤnjŠ µȝǨǔĵǒ

ǔʤȝɴɰɻ ƆƆǔĵŠɎ ¿njŠɴŠ ˬÿɻ ÿ ɻŠĵǒ ȝȅŊ ȽŠɴɻȝȅ ǔȅɻǔŊŠ ȝ˴Ŋɰɻ ʤɴ˄ĵǥ ʤnjÿʤ Ŋÿ˴Ň Ě˄ʤ ʤnjÿʤ ȽŠɴɻȝȅɰɻ ȅÿǷŠ njÿɻ ȅȝʤ ĚŠŠȅ ɴŠǨŠÿɻŠŊɎ ¨ȝǨǔĵŠ ŊŠĵǨǔȅŠŊ ʤȝ ɴŠǨŠÿɻŠ ȝ˴Ŋɰɻ ȅÿǷŠ Ɔȝɴ ȅŠÿɴǨ˴ ÿ ˬŠŠǥ ÿƆʤŠɴ ʤnjŠ ɻnjȝȝʤǔȅƳ ˄ȅʤǔǨ ǔʤ ˬÿɻ ɴŠǨŠÿɻŠŊ Ě˴ ȨƖʤnj ǔɴĵ˄ǔʤ µȝǨǔĵǔʤȝɴ sǔǷǷ˴ ®ǔĵnjÿɴŊɻȝȅ ǔȅ ÿ ǨŠʤʤŠɴ ʤȝ ʤnjŠ ɻʤÿʤŠ ʤʤȝɴȅŠ˴ NŠȅŠɴÿǨɰɻ ƆƆǔĵŠɎ ]ʤɰɻ ĚŠŠȅ ʤnjɴŠŠ ˬŠŠǥɻ ɻǔȅĵŠ ʤnjŠ ɻnjȝȝʤǔȅƳ ÿȅŊ ȅȝ ÿɴɴŠɻʤɻ ȝɴ ĵnjÿɴƳŠɻ njÿ˪Š ĚŠŠȅ ǷÿŊŠɎ ȝ˴Ŋ njÿɻ ȅȝʤ ĚŠŠȅ ĵnjÿɴƳŠŊ ˬǔʤnj ÿȅ˴ ĵɴǔǷŠɎ ȝ˴Ŋ njÿɻ ɴŠȽŠÿʤŠŊǨ˴ ŊŠĵǨǔȅŠŊ ʤȝ ĵȝǷǷŠȅʤ ÿȅŊ Ƿ˄Ǩǒ ʤǔȽǨŠ ĵÿǨǨɻ ÿȅŊ ǷŠɻɻÿƳŠɻ ǨŠƆʤ Ɔȝɴ njǔɻ ÿʤʤȝɴȅŠ˴ njÿ˪Š ȅȝʤ ĚŠŠȅ ɴŠǒ ʤ˄ɴȅŠŊɎ LÿǷǔǨ˴ ȝƆ ʤnjŠ ŊŠĵŠÿɻŠŊ ÿǨɻȝ Ɔȝ˄ȅŊ ȝ˄ʤ ʤnjÿʤ ÿƆʤŠɴ µȽǔ˪Š˴ ˬÿɻ Y Y+HH].D'· ǥ

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. µ

njÿ˄ȅʤŠŊɎ ȅŊ ˬnjǔǨŠ ʤnjŠ Ƴnjȝɻʤɻ ÿɴŠ ɻÿǔŊ ʤȝ ĚŠ ɻŠŠȅ ʤnjɴȝ˄Ƴnjȝ˄ʤ ʤnjŠ njȝǷŠŇ ǔƆ ˴ȝ˄ ɴŠÿǨǨ˴ ˬÿȅʤ ʤȝ Š˲ȽŠɴǔŠȅĵŠ ƳnjȝɻʤǨ˴ ÿĵʤǔ˪ǔʤ˴Ň ʤnjŠȅ ʤÿĚǨŠɻ Ɩ̅ ÿȅŊ ƖȨ ǔȅ ʤnjŠ ˄Ƚɻʤÿǔɴɻ Ěÿɴ ǔɻ ˬnjŠɴŠ ˴ȝ˄ ˬÿȅʤ ʤȝ ĚŠɎ ɪ¿njŠ˴ ɻŠŠǷ ʤȝ ĚŠ ʤnjŠ njŠÿɴʤ ȝƆ ʤnjŠ njȝ˄ɻŠŇɬ ɻÿǔŊ sÿȅŠ LǔƳ˄ŠɴȝÿŇ ǷÿȅÿƳŠɴ ÿȅŊ Ƴnjȝɻʤ ʤȝ˄ɴ njȝɻʤǒ ŠɻɻɎ LǔƳ˄Šɴȝÿ ɻÿǔŊ ʤnjǔɻ ÿɴŠÿ njÿɻ ʤnjŠ Ƿȝɻʤ ȽÿɴÿȅȝɴǷÿǨ ÿĵʤǔ˪ǔʤ˴Ɏ ¿njǔɻ zǔʤʤǨŠ ®ǔ˪Šɴ ɴŠɻʤÿ˄ɴÿȅʤ ɻŠɴ˪Šɻ zȝˬĵȝ˄ȅʤɴ˴ LɴŠȅĵnj ĵ˄ǔɻǔȅŠ ǔȅ ʤnjŠ ßǔĵʤȝɴǔÿȅ njȝǷŠ ʤnjÿʤ ˬÿɻ Ě˄ǔǨʤ ǔȅ ȨȊȨ̅ Ě˴ Ǩÿɴǒ

¿njŠ ÉȅǔʤŠŊ µʤÿʤŠɻ Ɔȝ˄ȅŊ ǔʤɻŠǨƆ ȝȅ ʤnjŠ Ěɴǔȅǥ ȝƆ ÿ ƆŠŊŠɴÿǨ Ƴȝ˪Šɴȅǒ ǷŠȅʤ ɻnj˄ʤŊȝˬȅ ÿƆʤŠɴ njÿɴŊǒɴǔƳnjʤ ®ŠȽ˄ĚǨǔĵÿȅɻ ǔȅ ȝȅƳɴŠɻɻ ɴŠǡŠĵʤǒ ŠŊ ÿ ǨȝȅƳɻnjȝʤ ŠƆƆȝɴʤ ʤȝ ǥŠŠȽ ȝƆƆǔĵŠɻ ȝȽŠȅ ÿɻ ʤnjŠ˴ ƆǔƳnjʤ Ɔȝɴ ɻʤŠŠȽ ɻȽŠȅŊǔȅƳ ĵ˄ʤɻ ÿȅŊ ɻʤɴǔĵʤ ĚȝɴŊŠɴ ɻŠĵ˄ɴǔʤ˴ ǷŠÿɻ˄ɴŠɻ ʤnjÿʤ (ŠǷȝĵɴÿʤɻ ÿȅŊ ʤnjŠ ánjǔʤŠ Wȝ˄ɻŠ ɻÿ˴ ÿɴŠ ʤȝȝ Š˲ʤɴŠǷŠɎ áǔʤnj ȅȝ ŊŠÿǨ ǔȅ ȽǨÿĵŠ Ě˴ ǷǔŊǒ ȅǔƳnjʤ µÿʤ˄ɴŊÿ˴Ň ƆŠŊŠɴÿǨ ˬȝɴǥŠɴɻ ˬǔǨǨ ƆÿĵŠ Ɔ˄ɴǨȝ˄ƳnjɻŇ ǷȝɴŠ ʤnjÿȅ ʹ ǷǔǨǨǔȝȅ ÿĵʤǔ˪ŠǒŊ˄ʤ˴ ÿȅŊ ɴŠɻŠɴ˪Š ǷǔǨǔʤÿɴ˴ ʤɴȝȝȽɻ ˬǔǨǨ ˬȝɴǥ ˬǔʤnjȝ˄ʤ Ƚÿ˴Ň ÿȅŊ ȽɴȝƳɴÿǷɻ ÿȅŊ ɻŠɴ˪ǔĵŠɻ ʤnjÿʤ ǷŠɴǔĵÿȅɻ ɴŠǨ˴ ȝȅ ƆɴȝǷ ĵȝÿɻʤ ʤȝ ĵȝÿɻʤ ˬǔǨǨ ĚŠƳǔȅ ʤȝ ƆÿĵŠ ɻnj˄ʤŊȝˬȅ Ŋǔɻɴ˄ȽʤǔȝȅɻɎ ¿njŠ µŠȅÿʤŠ ĵȝȅ˪ŠȅŠŊ Ɔȝɴ ÿ ɴÿɴŠ µÿʤ˄ɴŊÿ˴ ɻŠɻɻǔȝȅ ʤȝ ÿŊ˪ÿȅĵŠ ǔʤɻ ȝˬȅ ĚǔȽÿɴʤǔɻÿȅ ȽÿĵǥÿƳŠ ʤnjÿʤ ǔɻ ɻ˄ȽȽȝɴʤŠŊ Ě˴ (ŠǷȝĵɴÿʤɻ ÿȅŊ ®ŠȽ˄ĚǨǔĵÿȅɻ ÿȅŊ ˬȝ˄ǨŊ Ɔ˄ȅŊ ʤnjŠ Ƴȝ˪ŠɴȅǷŠȅʤ Ɔȝɴ ʤnjŠ ɻnjȝɴʤ ʤŠɴǷŇ ʤnjɴȝ˄Ƴnj ȝ˪Ɏ ȨʃɎ ˄ʤ ǔʤ ˬȝ˄ǨŊȅɰʤ ĚŠ Šȅȝ˄Ƴnj ʤȝ ȽɴŠ˪Šȅʤ ÿȅ ÿǨǷȝɻʤ ĵŠɴʤÿǔȅ ɻnj˄ʤǒ Ŋȝˬȅ ÿǷǔŊ ʤnjŠ ĵnjÿȝɻ ǔȅ ʤnjŠ Wȝ˄ɻŠɎ ȅ LɴǔŊÿ˴Ň ÿ Ƿÿɻɻǔ˪Š njÿɴŊǒɴǔƳnjʤ ɴŠ˪ȝǨʤ ǨŠƆʤ µȽŠÿǥŠɴ wŠ˪ǔȅ ĵ ÿɴʤnj˴ɰɻ ǨÿʤŠɻʤ ȽǨÿȅ ʤȝ ĵȝǨǨÿȽɻŠɎ ɪ ȝȅƳɴŠɻɻ njÿɻ ȝȅǨ˴ ȝȅŠ ȝȽǒ ʤǔȝȅ ʤȝ ÿ˪ȝǔŊ ÿ ɻnj˄ʤŊȝˬȅ Ŷ ĚǔȽÿɴʤǔɻÿȅɻnjǔȽŇɬ ɻÿǔŊ µŠȅÿʤŠ ÿǡȝɴǔʤ˴ zŠÿŊŠɴ nj˄ĵǥ µĵnj˄Ƿǒ ŠɴŇ (ǒ ɎíɎ µŠȅÿʤŠ ®ŠȽ˄ĚǨǔĵÿȅ ǨŠÿŊŠɴ ǔʤĵnj ĵ ȝȅȅŠǨǨ ȝƆ wŠȅʤ˄ĵǥ˴ ŠĵnjȝŠŊ ʤnjŠ ɻŠȅʤǔǷŠȅʤŇ ˬÿɴȅǔȅƳ

Y + bD]Y· ǚ

Y Y+b] HnD· Į

]ʤɰɻ ĚŠŠȅ ǷȝɴŠ ʤnjÿȅ ÿ ˬŠŠǥ ɻǔȅĵŠ ¿˴ǨŠɴ (ȝ˴ǨŠ ŊǔɻÿȽȽŠÿɴŠŊ ˬnjǔǨŠ Ŋ˄ĵǥ nj˄ȅʤǔȅƳ ȅŠÿɴ ÿ zǔʤʤǨŠ ®ǔ˪Šɴ ǡŠʤʤ˴Ň Ǩÿ˄ȅĵnjǔȅƳ ÿ Ƿ˄Ǩʤǔǒ ɻʤÿʤŠ ɻŠÿɴĵnj ɻʤɴŠȅƳʤnjŠȅŠŊ Ě˴ ˪ȝǨ˄ȅʤŠŠɴɻɎ ¿njŠ nj˄ȅʤ Ɔȝɴ njÿɻ ÿƳȝȅǔ̀ŠŊ ÿȅŊ ĵÿȽʤǔ˪ÿʤŠŊ ȽŠȝȽǨŠ ˬnjȝ njÿ˪Š ʤÿǥŠȅ ʤȝ ɻȝĵǔÿǨ ǷŠŊǔÿ ʤȝ ɻŠȅŊ Ƚɴÿ˴ŠɴɻŇ ǷȝȅŠ˴Ň ɻÿƆŠʤ˴ ʤǔȽɻ ÿȅŊ ƳŠȝƳɴÿȽnjǔĵÿǨ ǥȅȝˬǨŠŊƳŠ ʤȝ ɴŠǒ ˄ȅǔʤŠ ʤnjŠ ˴ȝ˄ȅƳ nj˄ɻĚÿȅŊ ˬǔʤnj njǔɻ ȽɴŠƳȅÿȅʤ ˬǔƆŠŇ zÿǥŠǨ˴ȅɎ WŠɴŠ ÿɴŠ Ɔȝ˄ɴ ʤnjǔȅƳɻ ʤȝ ǥȅȝˬ ÿĚȝ˄ʤ ¿˴ǨŠɴ (ȝ˴ǨŠɎ

ȝƆ ʤnjŠ ˄ȅŊŠɴˬÿʤŠɴ Šȅ˪ǔɴȝȅǷŠȅʤ ɴŠƳÿɴŊǨŠɻɻ ȝƆ ʤnjŠ ˬÿʤŠɴ ˪ǔɻǔĚǔǨǒ ǔʤ˴Ňɬ z˄ĵÿɻ ɻÿǔŊɎ ɪ]ʤ ŊȝŠɻ ʤnjǔɻ Ě˴ ɻŠȅŊǔȅƳ ȝ˄ʤ ÿ ɻȝ˄ȅŊ ˬÿ˪Š ʤnjÿʤ ɴŠƆǨŠĵʤɻ ȝƆƆ ȝĚǡŠĵʤɻ ȝȅ ʤnjŠ Ěȝʤǒ ʤȝǷ ȝɴ ǔȅ ʤnjŠ ˬÿʤŠɴɎ ¿njŠ ɻŠÿɴĵnj ˬǔǨǨ ĵȝȅʤǔȅ˄Š ˄ȅʤǔǨ ÿ ɴŠɻĵ˄Š ǔɻ ǷÿŊŠ ȝɴ ÿ ĚȝŊ˴ ǔɻ ɴŠĵȝ˪ŠɴŠŊɎɬ

ƇƠ + ưY D m. b ; +bD] V D V V V.m V wȅȝˬȅ ÿɴȝ˄ȅŊ ǨȝĵÿǨ ɻȽŠŠŊǒ ˬÿ˴ɻ ÿɻ ɪ¿njŠ zȝɴǔɻ µǨÿ˴ŠɴŇɬ (ȝ˴ǨŠɰɻ ȝɎ ʪŪ ɻʤɴŠŠʤ ɻʤȝĵǥ ĵÿɴ njÿɻ ĚŠĵȝǷŠ ÿ ɻ˴ǷĚȝǨ ȝƆ njǔɻ ȽŠɴɻȝȅÿǨǔʤ˴Ň ˬǔʤnj Ƿÿȅ˴ ȝȅ ɻȝĵǔÿǨ ǷŠŊǔÿ ĵnjÿȅƳǔȅƳ ʤnjŠǔɴ ȽɴȝƆǔǨŠ Ƚǔĵʤ˄ɴŠɻ ʤȝ ʤnjŠ Ƚ˄ɴȽǨŠǒÿȅŊǒˬnjǔʤŠ ŊǔƳǔʤɻ ʤnjÿʤ ÿȽȽŠÿɴ ȝȅ ʤnjŠ ɻǔŊŠ ȝƆ njǔɻ ˪ŠnjǔĵǨŠɎ ¿njÿʤ ǔȅĵǨ˄ŊŠɻ ʤnjŠ zÿǥŠ ßǔŠˬ ȝʤȝɴ µȽŠŠŊˬÿ˴ ǔȅ ǔĵnjȝǨɻŇ ˬnjǔĵnj ȽȝɻʤŠŊ ÿ ȽnjȝʤȝƳɴÿȽnj ȝƆ ¿˴ǨŠɴ ɻǷǔǨǔȅƳ ÿȅŊ njȝǨŊǔȅƳ njǔɻ njŠǨǷŠʤɎ șʪŪɻʤɴȝȅƳŇ șȽɴÿ˴Ɔȝɴʤ˴ǨŠɴ ÿȅŊ șĚɴǔȅƳʤ˴ǨŠɴnjȝǷŠ njÿ˪Š ĚŠŠȅ ÿŊȝȽʤŠŊ Ě˴ Ƿÿȅ˴ ˬÿǔʤǔȅƳ Ɔȝɴ njǔɻ ɴŠʤ˄ɴȅɎ ÿȅ˴ ǔȅ ʤnjŠ ʤǔƳnjʤǒǥȅǔʤ ɴÿĵǔȅƳ ĵȝǷǷ˄ȅǔʤ˴ njÿ˪Š ǡȝǔȅŠŊ ǔȅ ɻȝǨǔǒ Ŋÿɴǔʤ˴Ň ŊŠŊǔĵÿʤǔȅƳ ɴÿĵŠɻ ʤȝ ¿˴ǨŠɴ ȝɴ Ƚ˄ʤʤǔȅƳ ŊŠĵÿǨɻ ȝƆ njǔɻ ĵÿɴɻ ȝȅ ʤnjŠǔɴɻɎ

Y H ] V· ǚ

Y Ht> · ǚ

YŹŬ}Ư· ǑƯ}§ŝŐŬij ºŹijƵ }Ưú ƒ}ƯǑ ŹĖ Ǒʼnú Ƶú}Ư§ʼn ĖŹƯ ]ȐŞúƯ ŹȐŞú í (

. µ

ĀĜŠȆɼȞȆęʥnjŠɼ˅ȆȆŠˮɼɏĶȞǸ

¿njŠ Ƿ˄ǨʤǔǒɻʤÿʤŠ ɻŠÿɴĵnj Ɔȝɴ ¿˴ǨŠɴ (ȝ˴ǨŠ ȅȝˬ ɻȽÿȅɻ ȝ˪Šɴ ÿǔɴŇ ǨÿȅŊ ÿȅŊ ˬÿʤŠɴ ÿɻ nj˄ȅŊɴŠŊɻ ȝƆ ˪ȝǨ˄ȅʤŠŠɴɻ ÿȅŊ Ǩÿˬ ŠȅƆȝɴĵŠǒ ǷŠȅʤ ÿƳŠȅĵǔŠɻ ĵȝȅʤǔȅ˄Š ʤȝ Ǩȝȝǥ Ɔȝɴ ʤnjŠ ǷǔɻɻǔȅƳ Ŋ˄ĵǥ nj˄ȅʤŠɴɎ

˪Šɴ ʤnjŠ ˬŠŠǥǒǨȝȅƳ ȝȽŠɴǒ ÿʤǔȝȅŇ ÿ ˪ÿɴǔŠʤ˴ ȝƆ ɴŠɻȝ˄ɴĵŠɻ ÿȅŊ ʤŠĵnjȅȝǨȝƳ˴ njÿ˪Š ĚŠŠȅ ŊŠȽǨȝ˴ŠŊ Ŷ ƆɴȝǷ ĚǨȝȝŊnjȝ˄ȅŊɻ ÿȅŊ njŠǨǒ ǔĵȝȽʤŠɴɻ ʤȝ N¨µ ʤɴÿĵǥǔȅƳ ÿȅŊ ɻȝȅÿɴ ȽɴȝĚŠɻɎ (ȝ˴ǨŠ ˬÿɻ Ǩÿɻʤ ɻŠŠȅ sÿȅɎ ʹʎ ȅŠÿɴ ÿ zǔʤʤǨŠ ®ǔ˪Šɴ ǡŠʤʤ˴Ɏ Wǔɻ ǡȝȅ Ěȝÿʤ ɻÿȅǥ ÿƆʤŠɴ ʤÿǥǔȅƳ ȝȅ ˬÿʤŠɴŇ ÿ˄ʤnjȝɴǔʤǔŠɻ njÿ˪Š ɻÿǔŊɎ

NɴŠƳ z˄ĵÿɻŇ ÿ µȝ˄ʤnj ÿɴȝǨǔȅÿ (ŠȽÿɴʤǷŠȅʤ ȝƆ ÿʤ˄ɴÿǨ ®Šǒ ɻȝ˄ɴĵŠɻ ɻȽȝǥŠɻǷÿȅŇ ɻÿǔŊ ǔȅ ÿȅ ŠǷÿǔǨ LɴǔŊÿ˴ ʤnjÿʤ ʤnjŠ ÿƳŠȅĵ˴ ˬȝȅɰʤ ɻʤȝȽ ǨȝȝǥǔȅƳ Ɔȝɴ (ȝ˴ǨŠŇ ÿȅŊ ʤnjÿʤ ɻȝȅÿɴ ǔɻ ÿ ĵɴǔʤǔĵÿǨ ʤȝȝǨ ǔȅ ʤnjŠ nj˄ȅʤ Ɔȝɴ njǔǷɎ ɪµĵÿȅȅǔȅƳ ɻȝȅÿɴ ǔɻ ÿȅ ǔŊŠÿǨ ʤȝȝǨ Ɔȝɴ ˄ȅŊŠɴˬÿʤŠɴ ɻŠÿɴĵnj ĚŠĵÿ˄ɻŠ ǔʤ ȽɴȝŊ˄ĵŠɻ ÿ ɮȽǔĵʤ˄ɴŠɰ

ģ m}ŞúŬǑŐŬúƬƵ }Ȑ }§ǑŐȉŐǑŐúƵ ŐŬ CȐƯǑŞú ú}§ʼn ĖŹƯ Ė}ťŐŞŐúƵ í .z. ® µW

ŠȆĀɼnjęʥnjŠɼ˅ȆȆŠˮɼɏĶȞǸ

ŠǨŠĚɴÿʤŠ ßÿǨŠȅʤǔȅŠɰɻ (ÿ˴ ÿɻ ÿ ƆÿǷǔǨ˴ ÿȅŊ ƳŠʤ ˴ȝ˄ɴ ǥǔŊɻ ǔȅ ȝȅ ʤnjŠ Ɔ˄ȅɎ íȝ˄ ĵÿȅ ɻȽŠȅŊ ɡ˄ÿǨǔʤ˴ ʤǔǷŠ ˬǔʤnj ˴ȝ˄ɴ ĵnjǔǨŊ ȝɴ ƳɴÿȅŊǒ

ĵnjǔǨŊ ˬnjǔǨŠ ŊŠ˪ŠǨȝȽǔȅƳ ÿ Ǩȝ˪Š Ɔȝɴ ɴŠÿŊǔȅƳ ȝɴ ǷÿǥǔȅƳ ĵɴÿƆʤɻɎ íȝ˄ɴ Ɔÿ˪ȝɴǔʤŠ ǨǔʤʤǨŠ ȝȅŠɻ ĵÿȅ ǨŠÿɴȅ ȅŠˬ ɻǥǔǨǨɻŇ ǨǔǥŠ ȽÿǔȅʤǔȅƳ ȝɴ ȽȝʤʤŠɴ˴Ň ˬnjǔǨŠ ǷÿǥǔȅƳ Ɔ˄ȅ ʤnjŠǷŠŊ ƳǔƆʤɻɎ Lȝɴ ǥǔŊɻ ȝƆ ÿǨǨ ÿƳŠɻŇ ƆɴȝǷ ĚÿĚǔŠɻ ʤȝ ʤȝŊŊǨŠɴɻŇ ÿȅŊ ȽɴŠǒ

ɻĵnjȝȝǨŠɴɻŇ ŠǨŠǷŠȅʤÿɴ˴ ɻĵnjȝȝǨŠɴɻ ÿȅŊ ʤŠŠȅɻŇ njŠɴŠ ÿɴŠ Ɔǔ˪Š ßÿǨŠȅǒ ʤǔȅŠɰɻ (ÿ˴ ÿĵʤǔ˪ǔʤǔŠɻ ÿɴȝ˄ȅŊ ˴ɴʤǨŠ Šÿĵnj Ɔȝɴ ƆÿǷǔǨǔŠɻɎ & C.>t &HVC > .D DHV]+ CtV]> + µÿʤ˄ɴŊÿ˴Ň LŠĚɎ ȨŪŇ ʎ ʤȝ Ū ȽɎǷɎ

ȝɻʤŅ ŗŪ ȽŠɴ ȽŠɴɻȝȅ zȝĵÿʤǔȝȅŅ Ȩ̅ʪ̅ ¨ȝɻɻ˄Ƿ ¿ɴȝʤ ®ȝÿŊŇ ȝɴʤnj ˴ɴʤǨŠ Šÿĵnj (ÿȅĵŠ ʤnjŠ ȅǔƳnjʤ ÿˬÿ˴ ˬǔʤnj ˴ȝ˄ɴ ĵnjǔǨŊɴŠȅ ȝɴ ƳɴÿȅŊĵnjǔǨŊɴŠȅɎ ¨ÿɴŠȅʤɻŇ ƳɴÿȅŊȽÿɴŠȅʤɻŇ ÿ˄ȅʤɻ ÿȅŊ ˄ȅĵǨŠɻŇ Šȅǡȝ˴ ÿ Ƚnjȝʤȝ ɻʤÿǒ ʤǔȝȅ ÿȅŊ ŊŠɻɻŠɴʤɻ ˬǔʤnj ʤnjŠ Ɔȝ˄ɴ ʤȝ Ȩʹ ˴Šÿɴ ȝǨŊɻ ǔȅ ˴ȝ˄ɴ ǨǔƆŠɎ D t + V] Hn>Y &HV ' Y ĥŐƇƇ ] VHH] b]t TH]] Vt µÿʤ˄ɴŊÿ˴Ň LŠĚɎ ȨȨŇ Ȩ̅ ʤȝ ȨȨŅʪ̅ ÿɎǷɎ

Sunny

80°/65° See 15A HILTON HEAD, S.C.

D nY >> tŲ tHbV n tŲ

ĀĜŠȆɼȞȆęʥnjŠɼ˅ȆȆŠˮɼɏĶȞǸ

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icent difference for our national

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MICHAEL BROCHSTEIN USA TODAY NETWORK

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SEE SENATE, 2A

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif, speaks at a press conference Friday at the U.S. Capitol. McCarthy has faced resistance from right-flank Republicans in his effort to avoid a government shutdown.

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SEE SHUTDOWN, 2A

George Moscone and Supervisor security and personal safety, the across the Senate and Dianne Feinstein hailed as a beacon, health of our people and our across the country, for all to see Harvey Milk showcased her unique ability to lead with grace planet, and the strength of our hopefully, emulate.” trailblazer after death at 90 and,“Dianne Democracy,” Pelosi said in a and strength in the face of addidn’t just push which, he said, “shone like a

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WASHINGTON

SEBASTIAN LEE

A guide to POA fees in Beaufort County communities

BY MARY DIMITROV

Senate tries to approve funding to avert shutdown

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GENERAL EXCELLENCE

DAILY 7,000-15,500 DIVISION

| PAGE LABEL EVEN |

The Journal Thursday, February 23, 2023

Vol. 119 No. 38

| PAGE LABEL EVEN |

INSIDE: MAJOR COUPON SAVINGS IN TODAY’S ISSUE! PROPERTY TRANSFERS Property at Cliffs at Keowee Falls fetches $2.5M at sale. D3

1

$ 00

‘A LIFELINE’: Rosa Clark has year of ‘incredible growth and development.’ B1 BOUNCING BACK: Tigers rebound from ugly loss with win over Orange. D1 OCONEE COUNTY

‘A step in the right direction’ THE JOURNAL

WALHALLA — In an effort to keep pace with other agencies throughout the state, Oconee County is set to weigh increasing the minimum salary for a sheriff’s deputy by almost $5,000 in the upcoming budget cycle.

Sheriff Mike Crenshaw told county council’s Law Enforcement, Public Safety, Health and Welfare Committee Crenshaw on Tuesday that the starting salary for a basic deputy was $29,000

a year when he first took office in 2013. With council’s support last June, Crenshaw was able to get the minimum starting salary up from $35,885 to $40,000, while also spreading out $100,000 to properly adjust pay throughout the department for other employees.

“I want you to know

that I appreciate council’s efforts in trying to get our salaries increased,” Crenshaw said, making an unspecified request for another pay increase for his department. “I think we’re at a crossroads post-COVID with the quality of applications we’re receiving,

Daniel High School’s Sam Earle, left, and Watson Young celebrate during the Lions’ 52-10 victory over Walhalla to open Western 3A region play on Friday night at Singleton Field in Central. To read more about the game, and to see how Seneca and West-Oak fared in their region openers on Friday night, turn to page C3.

CALEB GILBERT | THE JOURNAL

‘TONE DEAF’: SC State Library leaves national library group over book bans, other issues. D1 WALHALLA ZACK MAULDIN | THE JOURNAL

Seneca Police Chief Casey Bowling said investigators believe an argument between neighbors ended with a deadly shooting at an apartment complex on East South 2nd Street on Wednesday evening.

Police: Man ‘Examine our lives’ shot dead by neighbor SEE SALARY, PAGE A3

OCONEE COUNTY

FIRST PLACE

THE JOURNAL STAFF

SENECA — A Seneca man was shot to death outside his apartment Wednesday night, and police have charged a neighbor with murder.

Oconee County Coroner Karl Addis identified the victim in a news release as Ronnie Lee Cobb, 62, of 1021 East South 2nd St..

Addis said Cobb died of

a gunshot wound to the chest.

The shooting happened outside Cobb’s apartment, according to Addis.

William Morgan David Morgan, 60, who lived in another apartSEE NEIGHBOR, PAGE A5

WALHALLA

The Journal, Seneca

PHOTOS BY CALEB GILBERT | THE JOURNAL

Worshippers from about a dozen area churches sing a hymn during a community Lenten service Wednesday at Trinity Baptist Church in Seneca. The service was the first of seven weekly meetings at different Seneca-area churches planned during the Lenten season.

Seneca-area churches begin focus on Lent

BY NORM CANNADA THE JOURNAL

SENECA — As Christians around the world began the 40-day season of Lent on Wednesday, representatives from about a dozen different churches were challenged by a local pastor to use the season to examine themselves, especially in how they react to and treat others.

Seneca Presbyterian

The Rev. Preston Shealy delivers a message on Judas during Wednesday’s community Lenten service at Trinity Baptist Church.

OUR VIEW

| INSIDE | ARRESTS CALENDAR CLASSIFIEDS COLUMNISTS

BY LAUREN PIERCE THE JOURNAL

WALHALLA — Walhalla’s police and fire chiefs have seen an uptick in false fire and burglar alarms in the city on a

COMICS ENTERTAINMENT LIFESTYLE OBITUARIES

B3 B4 B1 B2

OPINION SPORTS STOCK REPORTS WORLD | NATION

SEE ALARMS, PAGE A3

Proposed Walhalla false alarm fines

RESIDENTIAL

COMMERCIAL

False alarms Service within 1 year fee 1st alarm $0 2nd alarm $0 3rd alarm $60 4th alarm $120 5th alarm $240 6th alarm $480

False alarms Service within 1 year fee 1st alarm $0 2nd alarm $0 3rd alarm $125 4th alarm $250 5th alarm $500 6th alarm $1,000

| INFO | A6 A2 D4 B3

regular basis, with both departments responding to nearly 300 in one weekend this winter.

Fire Chief Will Bates told city council at its

numbers

TO READ A RELATED EDITORIAL, TURN TO PAGE A4.

Wilhelmenia Walker receives ashes from the Rev. Ryan Wilson at Trinity Baptist Church in Seneca on Wednesday.

Walhalla considers addressing false ÀUH EXUJODU DODUPV

By the

SEE CHURCHES, PAGE A5

A4 C1 D2 D1

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WILLIE SAYS: I’m glad your wife thinks I look cute! B5

Put the fun back in functional.

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The Journal

SENECA

County weighs $44K starting salary for sheriff’s office

BY RILEY MORNINGSTAR

WEEKEND

Vol. 119 No. 195 upstatetoday.com

2446 Laurens Road Greenville, SC 29607

SDOC discusses bad bus behavior THE JOURNAL STAFF

WALHALLA — Proper school bus protocol is being addressed by the school district after parents boarded school buses, which breaks state law.

The School District of Oconee County released a statement Wednesday notifying the community of “three instances of parents boarding their student’s school bus to address the bus

driver or another student.” interfere with the operation of a “At no time were any students school bus, either public or priin danger,” the vate, by boarding, release said. restricting moveOUR VIEW “However, these ment or using TO READ A RELATED actions are unacthreats, either EDITORIAL, TURN ceptable and are physical or veractually against bal, to the driver TO PAGE A4. the law.” or any passenger The district while the bus is referenced S.C. code 59-67engaged in the transportation of 245, which states, “No person SEE BUS, PAGE A3 shall willfully and wrongfully

FILE

Buses await dismissal at Seneca High School in 2022. The school district is currently addressing instances of parents improperly boarding buses.

SENECA

SENECA

Fall home and yard improvement section inside today

‘Good for the soul’

Support local businesses with house projects

THE JOURNAL STAFF

CALEB GILBERT | THE JOURNAL

Paul Boggs of Seneca was among 10 wounded veterans getting on a wakeboard this weekend as part of the Wake for Warriors event on Lake Keowee.

Wounded veterans enjoy wakeboards, camaraderie on Lake Keowee

BY NORM CANNADA THE JOURNAL

SENECA — On Friday afternoon, Seneca resident Paul Boggs was out

on Lake Keowee, holding a line from a boat pulling him and the wakeboard he was attempting to ride.

A former U.S. Marine, Boggs, 45, was able to get up on the board and

ride. When he would fall off, he got up to try to go again. After Boggs finished, Ted Hofknecht, took his SEE VETS, PAGE A5

SENECA — As the leaves begin to change and the air grows crisper, it’s time to transform your home into a warm and inviting space for cozy gatherings and autumn festivities.

The “Home and Yard Fall Clean-Up” special section is inside every edition of today’s Journal, which includes a trove of local businesses ready to help you elevate your living spaces while staying on top of the latest trends.

Whether you’re gearing up for Halloween parties or Thanksgiving gatherings, this guide will help you achieve what you envision for your home.

Area businesses featured prominently in the

section include American Renovations, Clean and Bright Exteriors, Dolly’s Roofing, Glick’s Greenhouse, KaiWood Designs, McNeely’s Store and Rental, Milestone Outdoors and Peachtree Landscape and Hardscape.

Extra copies will be available for $1 at The Journal office at 210 W. North 1st St. in Seneca from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., beginning Monday.

WALHALLA

Salem woman ordered to pay $98K in restitution to father

BY RILEY MORNINGSTAR THE JOURNAL

WALHALLA — An Oconee County woman will spend 18 months on house arrest after bilking her elderly father of more than $300,000 through abusing power of attorney rights.

Chanda Sargent, 43, of Salem, pleaded guilty to exploitation of

a vulnerable adult before Judge Cordell Maddox in Walhalla on Tuesday. Maddox issued a five-year sentence suspended to five years of probation. Sargent was ordered to serve 18 months on house arrest and pay back restitution in the amount of $98,500.

Sargent was charged in December with 11 counts of

exploitation of a vulnerable adult and one count of financial transaction card fraud by the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office. According Sargent to a news release at the time, a Medicaid Fraud Control Unit investigation revealed

| INSIDE | ARRESTS CALENDAR CLASSIFIEDS COMICS

that — beginning in January 2022 — Sargent allegedly converted $309,747 of the victim’s money to her own use.

Sargent was emotional during the plea, but couldn’t provide an answer on why she committed the crimes before Maddox after being asked. Her attorney, Demi Messer, said she simply wanted to admit to

| INFO | A6 A2 D4 B4

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the crimes and move forward.

Maddox also asked Sargent if she had a job, to which she replied she was unable to get one after companies performed background checks.

Assistant attorney general Ken Moore represented the state in the hearing. morningstar@upstatetoday.com | (864) 973-6685

WILLIE SAYS: Thanks for the walk down memory lane! B7 20 Tide Turn Drive Keowee Key MLS #20265530 Water views all year round in this charming 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom home! 3-season porch!

Deck and covered patio!

I loved this paper. The focus on local news and sports introduced me to a community I knew nothing about, but when I was done, I had some sense of who the community is. It’s all about the content, and The Journal understands its job. The paper also has crisp reproduction and easy-to-read layout. Great paper!

JIM DAVENPORT AWARD

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The News & Reporter

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Lexington County Chronicle

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Chris Trainor The State

y l k JAY BENDER AWARD e e W

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y l i a D

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The Post and Courier

Weekly JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR Alexandra Whitbeck The People-Sentinel

Daily JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR Thad Moore

The Post and Courier

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