2025 S.C. Press Association Awards Presentation (Part A)

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Hall of

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Hubert Duvall Osteen Jr. The Sumter Item (1936-2020)

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Lee Harter

The Times and Democrat

IN MEMORY Brian LaPeter | Feb. 8, 2024 | Former photographer, The Island Packet

James McLaurin | March 15, 2024 | Retired sports journalist, The State Fred Foster | April 8, 2024 | Retired president and publisher, Anderson Independent Mail | Past President, S.C. Press Association | Former SCPA Foundation Board Member Les Duggins | April 23, 2024 | Former photo editor, Herald-Journal James Caroll "Jimmy" Glenn | May 11, 2024 | Retired, The Post and Courier | Formerly worked at The People-Sentinel and The Baptist Courier James E. Wilson III | May 30, 2024 | Reporter and photographer, Bamberg County Leader | Formerly worked at The Advertizer Herald Bonnie Calhoun Williams | August 23, 2024 | Retired Editorial Page Editor, Anderson Independent Mail Sarah Yelena Haselhorst | Oct. 5, 2024 | Reporter, The Island Packet and Beaufort Gazette Jim Hoagland | Nov. 4, 2024 | Former sports writer, The State and Columbia Record Gloria Fair | Jan. 8, 2025 | Former news editor, Herald-Journal

Nathalie Dupree | Jan. 13, 2025 | Former recipe columnist, The Post and Courier

Millie Scott | Feb. 8, 2025 | Retired ad manager, cooking columnist, Lee County Observer Dan Branyon | Feb. 27, 2025 | Retired publisher and founder, The Observer, Ware Shoals | Former Sports Editor, Laurens County Advertiser Jennifer Spears | March 13, 2025 | Retired production manager, The Times and Democrat | Former clerk and typesetter, The Greenville News

JUDSON CHAPMAN AWARD

OPEN DIVISION

THIRD PLACE Herb Frazier Charleston City Paper

SECOND PLACE Ben Morse The Sun News

JUDSON CHAPMAN AWARD

OPEN DIVISION

FIRST PLACE

Eva Herscowitz and Jocelyn Grzeszczak The Post and Courier

Great example of holding power to account for spending without oversight.

CARTOON

OPEN DIVISION

SECOND PLACE Steve Stegelin Charleston City Paper

CARTOON

OPEN DIVISION

FIRST PLACE

Robert Ariail Charleston City Paper

Great artwork and strong editorial comment.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Brazilian BBQ restaurant now open in Lexington A3

Lexington County now requires dogs to be microchipped

INFORMATIONAL GRAPHIC

The floating music festival Reggaetronic returns to Lake Murray A4 StretchLab opens a new location in Lexington A5

BY AL DOZIER news@lexingtonchronicle.com

New animal control regulations recently approved by Lexington County Council will require pet owners to have microchips injected into their dogs.

But there’s no rush, according to Lexington County Councilman Todd Cullum.

“It’s going to take about a year to get the word out,” Cullum said.

In an interview with the Chronicle, Cullum said there would be exceptions for dogs with health issues, but a veterinarian would have to approve them.

Previously, pet owners in Lexington County were only required to attach an identification tag to the dog’s collar.

The microchip contains a unique identification number that can be scanned by animal shelters, veterinarians and other pet-related organizations to retrieve the identification of the owner.

Lost pets could immediately be returned to their owners.

While it may sound scary, it’s a fairly simple process, according to Brittany Jones, chief officer of Lexington County’s Animal Control Center. She said the injection “only takes a few seconds” and involves a tiny chip that does not impose much pain.

She said the county’s shelters can provide the im-

plant for a cost of $10.

A microchip is a small, electronic chip enclosed in a glass cylinder that is about the same size as a grain of rice that is injected under the pet’s skin using a hypodermic needle. It is no more painful than a typical injection, although the needle is slightly larger.

County officials say it’s an

OPEN DIVISION

Local basketball teams use summer scrimmages to focus on team building ahead of new season B1 USC parts ways with several spring sports coaches B3 Free notary public seminar to be offered in Lexington County this August B8

BY THE NUMBERS The search term, “Jeanne Córdova,” has been the most Googled term in the Lexington area over the past week, data from Google Trends shows. At a level which Google calls a breakout, this search increase is because the writer was honored with Google Doodles. Google Doodles is when the Google logo is replaced with art featuring a specific person, event or person.

The Google logo was replaced with a drawing of Córdova holding a book in front of a sunny background with palm trees. According to Google Doodles, the doodle was created in honor of Pride Month.

The doodle “celebrates Chicana lesbian activist, feminist, and author Jeanne Córdova, a pioneering leader of the LGBTQ+ rights movement.”

DEATHS Janice Mathis Crolley; Richard Sorin; Sarah Yonce Crook; Joyce Bowers; Diane Hart; Sara Campbell; Joyce O’Sheal; David Morris; Karin Jackson

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cation tag is securely fastened to his or her dog’s collar or harness or see that a microchip registered with the owner’s name, phone number, and address has been implanted in the dog. An identification tag that clearly indicates the name and phone number of the owner can be placed on the dog, although it will not substitute for a microchip.”

The new regulations were first proposed by the council’s Health & Human Services Committee at a meeting in August of last year. It’s one of several actions designed to reduce the number of animals now being kept in the county’s animal shelter. The shelter was housing between two and three times more than its capacity.

In addition to providing identification measures for lost dogs, the new ordinance also targets “backyard breeders” that are causing an over-population in the county’s shelter. The new ordinance would impose restrictions on who is allowed to breed, and limit the number of kittens and puppies that are brought into the shelter.

Officials say backyard breeders “seeking quick money” are part of the problem because they are not breeding in accordance with health conditions, temperament and breed standards.

Jones told the Chronicle she is very pleased with the new ordinance.

“I do feel like it will help a lot,” she said.

THIRD PLACE

Cary Howard Lexington County Chronicle Animal Services encourages adoption, low-cost vet care

LCFS

Lexington County Animal Services has a few programs in place to encourage adoption and limit euthanization.

“Our shelter is very full,” reads a post on the organization’s Facebook page, “and we have many dogs that have been waiting for a spot in adoptions, but the wait is taking a while and they desperately need a home and some are even facing the possibility of euthanization.”

There will be a Fourth of July adoption event from Monday, July 1 to Saturday, July 6 where adoption fees will be reduced to $10.

The fee is usually $40.

Additionally, any animal who has been up for adoption for over 30 days will have no fee.

There is a limit of two per household.

And on June 28 from 10 a.m. to noon, there will be a PETSinc Affordable Mobile Veterinary Unit. There is no appointment needed and it’s open to everyone.

There are plenty of basic treatments offered, and for reference, the most expensive treatment, according to the flier, is a heartworm test for $35.

Lexington County Animal Services is located at 321 Ball Park Rd. in Lexington and is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays. They are closed on Sundays.

Monthly Statistics for May

All calls for Fire Service

9 min 27 sec

Response time includes: Dispatch time: 01:06 Turnout time: 0:55 Travel time: 07:26

1626

Total calls for the month of May

STAFF REPORT news@lexingtonchronicle.com To Subscribe Call (803) 359-7633

important procedure to use at shelters where stray and lost pets often show up after being found wandering around.

These pets could wind up being euthanized unless they are able to go through an adoption process.

The ordinance states: “Every owner/custodian is required to see that an identifi-

Total Losses:

$373, 750 Total Saved:

$4,211,200 Special Response Team Activities 10 Wildland Responses (with approx. 57 acres burned) 14 Structure Fire Responses 16 Haz Mat Responses 7 Technical Rescue

Personnel On Scene I Structure Fires Units

Avg. Time

Avg. Personnel

First unit on-scene Second unit on-scene

7:57

2.7

13:45

21 min 7 sec

2:1

The average time LCFS to assemble 15 personnel on-scene of a working structure fire for May 2024.

SECOND PLACE David Ferrara The Post and Courier

INFORMATIONAL GRAPHIC

OPEN DIVISION

FIRST PLACE

Hongyu Liu and John Ramsey The Post and Courier This is one of the best data presentations I have ever seen. I spent quite a bit of time just exploring it.

And, it addresses a critical and important topic. Kudos to all involved!

INNOVATION

OPEN DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE Emma Slaven The Daniel Island News

Bristow Marchant, Joshua Boucher, Kata Stevens, Don Blount, Jennifer Molina, Hrisanthi Pickett & Loumay Alesali

The State

14 | FEATURE thedanielislandnews.com

The Daniel Island News ■ April 11 - 17, 2024

April 11 - 17, 2024 ■ The Daniel Island News

EMMA SLAVEN emma@thedanielislandnews.com

“To the person who left this here, you made my day brighter!” another wrote.

As I read what others had left behind, I smiled at the nuggets of wisdom and scribbles of human experience.

Each message shared snippets of inspiration drawn from the nature around them, with a few feeling safe enough to unload the burdens of their day.

Right there in the middle of a trail, in this random tree hole, was a form of communication that didn’t need any likes, shares, or reposts – just the raw, handwritten word bound by the hope of brightening someone’s day.

What started out as a niche TikTok trend turned out to impact a few islanders by uplifting their spirits.

Although the notebook has disappeared from the tree – whether from the elements or the tree police – I’m happy if it made one person smile.

I

Yo u m ad e m y da y br ig h te r!

Sn ip pe ts of in sp ira tio n

te A p p r ec ia ty u ea b ou around y

FEATURE | 15

Finding inspiration in unexpected places: THE TREE NOTEBOOK

e in B r e a t h a ir sh e r f e th Conne c In s p ir t io n a t io Beaut n y

thedanielislandnews.com

f you strolled along the trails of Daniel Island’s waterfront in February, you may have noticed a small notebook tucked neatly into a tree hollow.

From afar, it may have appeared to be a piece of trash stuck in a tree, but inside was the potential for connection, inspiration, and community.

At least that was my EMMA SLAVEN goal when I stuffed it into that tree hole.

That’s right, it was me who planted the 3x4-inch journal in a tree outside of the Daniel’s Landing condos.

Amid the beauty of the island’s major trail, my goal was for passersby to take a moment to stop, read the notebook’s intent, and reflect.

On the first page, it read, “Take a second and write down today’s thoughts, let go of something you’ve been holding in, or share advice about life.”

When I embarrassingly stuffed these empty pages and a purple pen into the hole of a tree, I didn’t have a sure feeling it would reach anyone.

Despite the many families and joggers who roam the trail on a daily basis, there was a high chance it would either get overlooked or someone might throw it away.

So, I left it alone.

I didn’t visit the trail or the hole in the tree.

One night, in between commercials for The Bachelor, I scrolled upon a Facebook post and saw it: my notebook.

My tree notebook, weathered down by rain that, of course,

EMMA SLAVEN

The Daniel Island News reporter Emma Slaven planted an open journal into a tree hollow for residents to write in while walking the Daniel Island waterfront trails.

ensued right after I put it there, was filled with notes in purple ink.

During my next visit to the trail a month after planting the notebook, I saw for myself what islanders had scribbled in the pages.

“Take a moment to breathe and appreciate the beauty that surrounds you,” one note read.

EMMA SLAVEN

The “Tree Notebook” was placed along this Daniel Island trail in a hole in the tree to the right.

INNOVATION

OPEN DIVISION

FIRST PLACE

Hongyu Liu The Post and Courier

This was an incredible use of innovation.

ELECTION/POLITICAL COVERAGE 1.00

$

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

1.00

$

Thu, Dec. 21, 2023 | ©2023 Times Publishing Company Inc. | Volume 141, No. 50

Thu, Feb. 08, 2024 | ©2023 Times Publishing Company Inc. | Volume 142, No. 6

THIRD PLACE

HONORABLE MENTION The Manning Times MAP. SC State Branch NAACP consultant, John C Ruoff, Ph.D., offers remarks on behalf on the NAACP and Clarendon County constituents to State Senator Johnson and Representative Pedalino regarding the school board election map.

The Manning Times | MANNINGLIVE.COM

POLITICS

HOLIDAY

“You folks need to work this out.” Last minute shopping safety

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See NAACP, Page 4

Pedalino said, “The objective I sought was to resolve this matter to give the votersCOMMUNITY a voice.

HISTORY

Per The City of Manning and on behalf of Chief Keith Grice and the entire staff of the Manning Police Department, we wish you a safe and happy holiday season. To ensure your safety, please follow these tips: When parking your vehicle to go shoppings remember where you parked it. Always park in a well lit and well traveled area. Have your keys in hand when approaching your vehicle and be ready to unlock the door. When you return to your See SHOPPING, Page 5

Clarendon County Consolidated School District Plan 2

TARELTON

endon County School Board of Trustees must be elected. Currently, the Board of Trustees is an appointed board and Johnson submitted this bill after increased public pressure for an elected board.

After the bill was introduced, Johnson and House District 64 Representative Fawn Pedalino could not reach an agreement regarding the district lines for a Board of Trustees map before the legislative session ended last fall. In December, local chapters of NAACP held a public forum in December asking Johnson and Pedalino to work together so that the election could be held on schedule. A few weeks into the new session, Pedalino has announced an agreement was made and the map will take effect after approval from Governor Henry McMaster.

N

- Broadband access at city parks is an on-going initiative.

Wi-Fi access is currently available at Gibbons Street Park, and we anticipate having the other parks on-line in the near future. All parks should have wi-fi availability by the

BOSTO

American Recovery Plan As you know, the city has been a recipient of funding from the American Recovery Plan recently passed by Congress. The following expenditures have

submitted

“I got with the gentlemen who actually came up with Clarendon County maps that we were [going to] use for the referendum and he came up with a map for me.”

Pedalino continued that her proposal had nine single member districts, drawn in accordance with where the members of the current, appointed board are now residing. She further explained that her proposed map and Johnson’s proposed map were very similar, and both met the same, mandated criteria.

OAKS

2024 State of The City

VOTING

Rep. Pedalino presents school district Board of Trustees map for election

RD

MANNING

to tell you from the very beginning that this meeting is centered on one focal point and that is how the Clarendon County district lines will be drawn for the election of our county board of trustees.” Levy also emphasized that “the school system [itself] and how it’s being run” would not be addressed at the meeting, foreshadowing how the gathering would devolve later in the evening.

Representative Pedalino was the first to present their proposed map. Pedalino stated that the bill introduced by Senator Johnson was incomplete and her team was working on the district map presently.

RD

part of a major shake-up meant to empower Black and other minority voters critical to its base of support.

KEENAN

BY MELISSA MCCOY

mtscreporter@gmail.com and of his grandfather, who had a fourth grade education and paved roads for a living. “Society would say these people are simple people. But you know what? They were rich. Rich On Thursday, Dec. 13, the Manning and Clar“Black voters, rural voters, white voters, veterans, in terms of the values that they had. They respected each On Thursday, Jan. 25, Democratic National ComLIFE SAVER. Paramedic Stephanie Hughes poses with her award. Read about her career below. endon County chapters of the National Association of mittee Chair Jaime Harrison and South Carolina Democrat- everybody that represents South Carolina Democrats will be other. They had morality. They had dignity to work hard. the first to have their voices heard,” Spain declared. She went And history always had these people as voiceless. But guess ic Party Chair Christale Spain spoke to a crowd of supportthe Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) hosted on to reiterate the importance of voter turnout for this presi- what? That’s changing.” ers in front of the courthouse in downtown Manning. The a meeting regarding the proposed district lines for the Harrison also credited President Joe Biden with stop in Clarendon County is one of many events held by the dential election and that Nikki Haley is not a moderate or election of the Clarendon County School District Board safe alternative to Donald Trump. “We know who [Haley] is. infrastructure wins and inclusion. “And as I said, we don’t SCDP in their “We Go First” tour. This tour is to promote give this president enough credit because he believes everyof Trustees. the Democratic presidential primary to be held on February Nobody has to tell us … MSNBC can’t fool us to believe she body should have a seat at the table … No other president is a moderate because she signed an extreme abortion ban 3, 2024.

The Clarendon County School Board has been every thought had the notion or gumption or the courage to into law right here in South Carolina. We remember that.

Several community leaders, including Town of an appointed board for about forty years and after public change the schedule from Iowa, New Hampshire to South We remember that she refused to expand Medicaid, forcing Summerton Mayor Tony Junious, Clarendon County DemoCarolina. Because we have shown time and time again that the only hospital in her hometown, where her parents still input, is moving to an elected board with the intention cratic Party President Patricia Pringle, Clarendon County this nation needs folks to stand up for freedom. live, to close. So, if she going to do that to them, what is she Council Chairman Dwight Stewart, and Third Circuit Soof candidates being featured on the 2024 county ballots.

Harrison ended his remarks with a comparison on going to do to us? Make sure you that you make the right licitor Ralph Finney, made opening remarks. the two political parties. “I talk a lot about superpowers. You choice and you vote for the progress that we’ve been seeing In order to have the School Board candidates on the know, I grew up reading comic books. It’s how I learned to on the Democrats for the past three and half years.” upcoming ballot, the map of the nine districts must be City of Manning Mayor Julia Nelson started the read. And I think the superpower of the Republican Party is introductions with a statement of support. “We’re so glad agreed upon by both House Representative Fawn Pedbeen approved from this

BY MAYOR JULIA NELSON fear … they believe our better days as a nation our behind After Spain caught the crowd’s attention, DNCfunding: [Harrison and Spain] chose to come down to Manning Chair Harrison brought the committee’s talking points us.purchased Our superpower isn’t fear. It’s hope. Because we underalino and State Senator Kevin L. Johnson.

A new grapple truck has been to better today and we wish the entire Democratic Party success. So, stand that our better days aren’t behind us, they’re ahead of home. “We have a foundation to make the change that we The meeting began with a call to order from maintain andthat right of ways removing debris I would like that to take a moment to provide our everyone please know you’re welcome in Manning, us. Weby believe that American dreamin should be available to know that is desperately need instreets this state. And why it’s BYyouLEIGH ANN MAYNARD & MELISSA MCCOY Carolina. ” City report. The City has an annual Julius Adger, President of the Clarendon Branch of the all regardless of who you are, what you look like, who so important that awetimely get peoplemanner. to turn out to Invote thein this past when the old truck has been annualSouth State of the love, who you pray to. That is what America is all about.

The first in the nation primary because we need to send a signal mtscreporter@gmail.com NAACP. After the invocation and Pledge of Allegiance, down itin the hasstate caused issues and created unsightly streets budget of approximately 9.7 million dollars and isnotinonly a to the republicans Spain, alumni of the University of South Carolina American Dream is all about hope. We know more than but to republicans Moses Levy, Jr., from the Manning Branch of the the first black woman to We Chairare the SCDP, began hera busy anything abouttwo that. trucks Hope and and faith have gotten us through across whoatake this period power to dismiss you and brief of time.

We now have strong and financial position. expecting andthis countryfor In March of 2023, State Senator Kevinexplained the purpose of the meeting. “We want NAACP, speech by emphasizing the historic nature of this year’s state diminish you.” so much as a community in South Carolina … As we march be able to keep up withindebris pickup even if one productive in 2024 as the numerous projects are on- Harrisonshould primary.year In February of 2023, Democratic Party apFeb. 3, we make sure our nation understands thatJohnson the spoke of his mother, who was a teenager introduced a bill to lay out the nine singleprovedplanned the reordering of its 2024 presidential primary, experiences mechanical failure. going and that include the following: people in South Carolina have something to see. Our motto when she had himof andthe had trucks to drop out of school. He spoke member districts from which members of the Claris not ‘while I breathe, I hope’ but ‘while I breathe, I vote.’” of his grandmother, who picked cotton and cleaned houses, replacing Iowa with South Carolina in the leadoff spot as

BY MELISSA MCCOY mtscreporter@gmail.com

RD

County Democratic Party hosts “First in the Nation” rally at courthouse

HAVILAND

HEART HEALTH AWARENESS

POLITICS

BENTON

PAGE 10 | Thu, Feb. 08, 2024

Thomas Hyslip & Patrick Byrne Tega Cay Sun

CHILDREN

Senator Johnson worked with me towards that Pleasant Grove School restoration reaches phase two goal. Many people asked me to work with Johnson to Farm Bureau Insurance Upcoming GAL training dates submitted

Pleasant Grove School, in the lumber town of Alcolu, was established for African-American students in 1933, following the purchase of the 3 acres of land by Clarendon County School District 27. It was the first public school for black students in Clarendon County. The building has been vacant since the school closing in 1953 due

to the South Carolina equalization program. The newly established Pleasant Grove Restoration project committee has be working on the building since February 2023. During the second phase, we are inviting the community to come out and join us with helping to clean up and beautify around the school. Take a look at the second installment of the alum brick walkway. The Pleasant Grove restoration committee will be working on the school building located at 1021 Joe Maria Road, Alcolu, SC 29001, on Friday, Feb.

SPORTS

16 and Saturday, Feb. 17, 2023 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.resolve We are this issue. By dropping my original plan and

show I was listening to their concerns about working We hope to find many of those last students who attended together.”

Pleasant Grove School. We are asking community members and alumni who have connections to the school to come out information check out our Webpage hpgschool.org or email hpgschool12@gmail.com

See MANNING, Page 4

Athletic Conference realignment announced for

Region 6 now includes Carvers Bay, Green Sea Floyds, Hanna Pamplico, Hemingway, Johnsonville, Lake View and Latta. Green Sea Floyds, Hannah Pamplico, Lake

SPORTS

submitted

Pedalino went on to explain that Districts 1, 2 and 3 in the south closely match the originalClarendon County Farm Bureau Johnson plan as well as 7 and 8 in the north.

TheFarm Bureau Insurance agents and local See are MAP, Pagea 4 bringing little more joy to this holiday

and spend the day with us and share your story. For more

East Clarendon moves to Region 7 following athletic conference

submitted FIRST RESPONDER

spreads holiday cheer

using his map as a starting point was intended to … excited about this project and progress and improvements.

“We are definitely looking forward to the new region alignments,” says James Price, Williamsburg County School District Athletic Director. “A lot of schools we have

submitted

The Cass Elias McCarter Guardian ad Litem Program, a division of the South season by helping those in the community Carolina Department of Children’s Advofacing hard times. cacy, is offering free online training to those The local office donated a total of interested in becoming a volunteer Guardian $1,500 to Turbeville Children’s Home and ad Litem (GAL) in Clarendon County. the United Ministries Food Bank. The TurGALs advocate on behalf of abused See CHEER, Page 4 and neglected children who are involved in

family court legal proceedings through the Department of Social Services (DSS). The next training will begin on January 9, 2024.

What better gift to give during the holiday season than the gift of advocacy for the vulnerable children of South Carolina. There is no better time than right now to become a volunteer. Both morning and evening virtual sessions are available to help accommodate volunteers’ busy schedules.

See FOSTER, Page 5

ELECTION/POLITICAL COVERAGE

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

SECOND PLACE Staff The Gaffney Ledger

ELECTION/POLITICAL COVERAGE

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

FIRST PLACE

Staff Charleston City Paper

Strong coverage on a variety of issues!

ELECTION/POLITICAL COVERAGE

ALL DAILY DIVISION

SECOND PLACE Staff The State

ELECTION/POLITICAL COVERAGE

ALL DAILY DIVISION

FIRST PLACE

Staff The Post and Courier

Excellent body of work that digs beneath the surface to reveal what’s really going on in government and politics.

EDITORIAL/COLUMN IN SUPPORT OF FOI & OPEN GOVERNMENT

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

THIRD PLACE IJKLJKMNÿLPQLIÿRS

Travis Jenkins The News & Reporter TUVWÿXVWYÿZÿZÿ[\]^_`àV\

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SECOND PLACE Staff Charleston City Paper

perspective EDITORIAL/COLUMN IN SUPPORT OF FOI & OPEN GOVERNMENT

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

FIRST PLACE

Cody Sossamon The Gaffney Ledger

EASY DOES IT They don’t want you to know Well, well, well. for a copy of the contract that They’ve done it again. we learned that Fall had been ‘They’ are the Cherokee given a raise and a contract County School District extension.

Board of Trustees.

When motions are made to ‘It’ is voting on a motion approve the action discussed to approve an action disin executive session, that cussed in executive (closed tells the public nothing. to the public) session withThe public has a right to out providing the details of know what was discussed which they are voting.

BEFORE a vote is taken.

Last Thursday evening, While the South Carolina trustees voted 8-1 to accept Freedom of Information Act Superintendent Dana can be a bit ambiguous, the CODY SOSSAMON Fall’s “resignation after intent of all sections is clear: PUBLISHER meeting in executive sesThe public has a right to sion for nearly 80 minutes know the business being to receive legal advice on the superinten- conducted by government officials — dent’s employment contract. Trustees di- elected and appointed. rected school board chairman Dr. Mark In the forward to the booklet “Public Nix to sign a settlement agreement with Officials Guide to Compliance with Fall once it is finalized by school district South Carolina’s Freedom of Inforattorneys,” The Ledger reported Monmation Act,” Attorney General Alan Wilday. son wrote, “The Freedom of Information The problem here is that the public Act (FOIA) was enacted to provide direct has no idea what is contained in the setaccess to the functions of government to tlement agreement. the general public and the press. In fact, “They should have disclosed more sunlight is essential to the survival of about what authority they were giving our representative democracy.” the attorney to settle the matter,” said The argument can be made that both Taylor Smith, attorney for the South of these matters dealt with contracts Carolina Press Association. “Disclosing and/or agreements and thus could lethe draft/proposed settlement agreegally be kept secret until they became ofment or mentioning its material terms ficial after both parties had signed them. in the vote would have accomplished However, I don’t agree with that line this purpose.” of reasoning and neither does Taylor You may recall (or maybe not) that in Smith, an expert in FOIA matters.

December, trustees voted to “amend Dr. The school board even issued a stateFall’s employment contract as discussed ment confirming it had reached an in executive session. We direct the agreement with Fall: “In reaching an Board Chair to sign the contract on the agreement with Dr. Fall, the Board conBoard’s behalf with assistance from sidered the legal requirements of his White and Story LLC.” contract along with what the Board beThe problem there was that no details lieves to be the best interests of our stuof the contract were made public before dents and staff moving forward.” the vote. It wasn’t until The Ledger filed Sounds like a done deal to me, so why a Freedom of Information Act request wasn’t it revealed prior to a vote?

THEIR VIE Biden and Iran san Two days after reissuing a $10 billion Iran sanctions waiver, the Biden Administration on Friday threatened coordinated Group of Seven sanctions against Iran if it delivers ballistic missiles to Russia. The policy signal these two moves send is incoherence.

G-7 leaders are talking tough. “Were Iran to proceed with providing ballistic missiles or related technology to Russia,” they write, “we are prepared to respond swiftly and in a coordinated manner including with new and significant measures against Iran.” Russia has benefited greatly from Iranian drones in its invasion of Ukraine, and its interest in Tehran’s missiles has been clear for months.

All of this was foreseeable when the U.S., U.K., France and Germany let the international embargo on Iran’s missile program lapse in October. Instead of triggering snapback sanctions, the Biden Administration preferred to avoid an escalation that might disrupt diplomacy with Iran. Weeks after the Oct. 7 massacre, while Iran’s proxies were firing on U.S. troops in the region, appeasement was in the air.

It was the same story in November, when the Administration last renewed

READERS ON THE ROAD in relatable language.

Explains the importance of open government and compliance with FOIA by analyzing a specific instance and explaining the problem

from Iran As usua that the m manitaria Trump A too. Neith The old ity from Ir crow in Ir President ing the mo verted to e fund in Om Iran’s deb according dation for Adults These fun spreading ing a nucl Why does tend othe Maybe ministrat the $10 bi waiver w people mi The G-7 Iranian m come, but mined by

EDITORIAL/COLUMN IN SUPPORT OF FOI & OPEN GOVERNMENT

ALL DAILY DIVISION

THIRD PLACE Cindi Ross Scoppe The Post and Courier

8A SECOND PLACE Viewpoints SATURDAY

December 16, 2023

Richard S. Whiting Index-Journal Locally owned since 1919

Mundy Burns Price

Richard S. Whiting

President and Publisher

Executive Editor

R. Frank Mundy 1915-1982

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.

OUR VIEW

Getting public information shouldn’t be so difficult In the early morning hours this past Saturday, the driver of a pickup truck who was fleeing from law enforcement after a traffic stop drove through the intersection of U.S. 25 and Laurel Avenue and slammed into another auto, killing its 85-year-old driver.

News outlets, including the Index-Journal, were able to share basic details of the wreck that morning based on information emailed by the Greenwood County Coroner’s Office and the state Highway Patrol. All any of us had at the time was when and where the wreck happened, and the name of the deceased. The pickup truck driver was not identified, nor were any charges listed, but a Greenwood County Detention Center bookings report shared the name and charges of a person who, logically, was that driver. Law enforcement reports would be necessary to have in order to substantiate that.

On Monday, the Index-Journal sought more information in order to better inform the public. We requested incident reports from the Greenwood County Sheriff ’s Office, the agency that first stopped the pickup driver, and the Highway Patrol, which also became involved in the case and ultimately was the arresting agency.

Neither agency was able to provide the reports in a timely manner.

The sheriff ’s office report was released to the paper on Wednesday, after it was passed through the hands of both the county public information officer and county attorney for review — at the request of the sheriff ’s office.

The highway patrol spokesperson initially told the paper’s reporter she would have to file a Freedom of Information Act request for its report. Ultimately, the

Cheering Hamas on campu to grasp how grotes

I

n German-occupied Poland on a November day in 1942, a Jewish woman carrying a baby realizes an SS man is following her down the street.

She catches the eye of a woman walking toward her. Peter Englund tells what a witness saw:

population that November was 800,000, down from 3.3 million over a year, “Some people murd for food — to steal ration cards the worst cases, to eat their vict Englund writes. In China, peop “collecting and sieving the drop

EDITORIAL/COLUMN IN SUPPORT OF FOI & OPEN GOVERNMENT

ALL DAILY DIVISION

FIRST PLACE

Cindi Ross Scoppe The Post and Courier

Scoppe and The Post and Courier could have been worthy of this award for more than this single entry. They are consistent advocates of the public's right to know what public officials are up to, writing in an easily comprehended, often entertaining manner. In this column, Scoppe illustrates an overlooked loophole in the SC FOI, which often is basis for official's secrecy.

EDITORIAL WRITING

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

Brandon Roberts FORUM Oppinions Op p inions The Summerville Journal Scene The Summerville

BRANDON ROBERTS, Editor www.berkeleyind.com/opinion

Wednesday, OCTOBER 2, 2024

Editorial

www.journalscene.com

Wednesday, October 30, 2024

Equally important is understanding the purpose behind the information being shared. Was the article designed to inform or educate, or is its purpose to sell, entertain, or manipulate public opinion? Recognizing intent can help readers separate genuine news from content designed to deceive or persuade.

Misinformation often spreads by recycling outdated, irrelevant content.

Checking the publication date ensures we operate with the most current facts available.

However, even the most well-intentioned readers can be influenced by their own biases. We must all reflect on whether our personal beliefs may affect how we judge the accuracy of information. It’s human nature to accept news that aligns with our worldview, but this often leads to confirmation bias, reinforcing false or misleading narratives.

Finally, one of the simplest yet most effective factchecking methods is to verify information across multiple sources. If multiple reputable news organizations are reporting the same facts, it significantly increases the credibility of the information.

These practices are not just for journalists or academics—they are for everyone. As responsible citizens, we must take owner-

BRANDON ROBERTS, Editor

www.journalscene.com

Election matters in for civility Renewing a call N

The reward of your the like. These are ot until it got dark! name-brand treats. the people with you encouragement That was the trick or treating They gave us Hershey’s, Nestle Crunch, through thick and rule my mother set down every Milk Duds, Good & Plenty, Almond Joy, top by any convenience store, and thin, in the good I once heard it said that the best way Darkness cannot drive out not set based on what we see er” intentions embraced, you As a person of faith, my year.

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I dressed as a hobo, a Depresdy who handed out local government reflectsforthe President John F.of Kennedy’s words, ifin your of being a part of the solution. using them frontreward doorspoints in Berkeley there we can of influence is that they benefit common and popular way of garnerhis it, face carpopcorn andblack-andneeds of its people. funeralwill on sphere our and I believe you doballs as or Rice Crispy marshmaltaken to Furthermore, voting sends a sion-era fellow with dirt onI get County, yet often goes unaddress through communiThe reward of your trust from your counsel. In the same way, ing business and offering incentives Respect for all rying a stick over his shoulder.

That is low bars.

With the wide-reaching immessage beyond just policy white television. well.

But this is written for the heart, ought addressed.

We cannot afty intervention.

The foundational quality of any you can benefit from the wisdom and to loyal customers who frequent their insensitive ofof decision preferences.

It tells elected ofA fewplications years later, Ievery distinctly benefit of those whoHey, are lady, tiredwe’d think, our mothers can tocircle. transcend ford to silent cam-in your inner Thoseconsidered of you reading this today. leaderawareness is trust. Those counsel others in your As iron business.

It’sremain a win-win forany everyone. Public Weevery didn’tpossible care about ourofcostumes make those for us at home! Go to the made elected — ficials that the communitycome is from recall being atbythe Sears crossthe hate and who genuinely ourcan religious canshould beknow implecircle need to that you are trustsharpens iron,officials one person sharpen Aslonger, a leader,and youthe arerecent engaged in vari-paigns much anyhow. we cared about was perfect storeunion” and get some real candy next year! from education policies in- of engaged paying attention. town with my familywhich shopwant a “more differences, dlelight memorial service is mented to bring the issue of background.

We haveAll simiworthy. When trust is the foundation the other, is thetobeauty selfless andDoug ous relationships with those around Dickerson kids’ gold. Candy and junk all of us.

After miles of walking, we’d hit the development — When voter turnout is high, ping forfrastructure Easter clothes when that benefits political step level in the direction. from laritiesthe andcandy, differences. the valueout that you bebring to your leadership.

The rewardour point for others you.aYour ofright influence with eachgunofviolence were hardly ever permitted in our residents Dorchester leaders announcement came outyou have To take the highsmall road,ranch we houses in the adjoining bordifferences, Berkeley County, closed doors.

Abovefood all, we share a comleadership, it willChurchbe evident inthe your is thatofthey know their best are more accountable one varies depending onknown their prox- hind home rest of the haveataheart, direct hand inwant and responsive etc. to the public’s store speakers telling seek toThe lift people there were nice but, our racial for its Southern charm, nat- es, schools, community cen- over theCounty mon bond ofthe humanity thatyear. must be on it andough. words and your actions. interest and you to differences, see imity.

And Halloween was their future. In a world concerns.

Whendividturnout istranscends that thesucceed. store was so deeply others uptoas well. boy, did they grate on a kid’s nerves. it our all. Your pointsmission beautyeveryone and close-knit organizations Thelocal reward point for others everyone is that determining them Forural example, has a generalters and they thatin you areproa person they immediately network of friends and much of it into as we ManyAre handed out nickel candy — one In many ways, local elec-ed, howlow, lead to decisionsof viewpack closing because Reflection Question: do itwecan even come communities, has acquaintancrecently must beknow engaged this mayas not be mine, anda pillowcase Final thoughts trust. to foster open es. They you know could. may not be size of a regular bar. We had to tionsaway, oftenDr. have the most imby a small a few miles Martin you willing to takefifth thethe high close tobeing livingmade by words of fracseen may a risebeinpeople gun-related in-at cess,can helping my opinions Maxwell stated,life.

“To add value, work, peopleAccording you worshiptowith Despite urbanrespect legends about hitthe fivesoluhouses to equal one lousy bar. on daily tion of the population, Luthermediate King,John Jr.impact had been roadcandy and be part of peace and civility?

Is it just a often cidents. localat dialogue about the dangers yours, but our mutual for your loyalty givewill of themselves, and Isto church, or people you know from andThe with poisonus. orIneedles, al- toOr, worse, they handed out Clark Bars, peoplemust chosen influleading outcomes shot. Theleaders tionparents to lift others a more pipe dream? it even worththat shouldlaced reports, shootings — both costsreward of gun violence. be what defines second thelaw reward ofI remember loy-encethat rarely happens by accident.”

And yourfatal yogaand class at the gym.

They are This A to discourse roam the despite a crunchy decisions about schools, reflect thebegin? wider comthe tragedy that civil your peanut bar that was made lotrying?don’t Where do we want tolowed thinktheir I am10-year-old a better kids non-fatal — have is close not an issue isthat alty. Whenalone you are a loyalpresidential thissafety, is your goal asservices a leader – intentiongoodbecome people,more and you enjoy being enforcement onin front doors miles with others? cally in Pittsburgh and, therefore, cheap. public health munity’s desires.on a candidate differences Here are my thoughts frequent. canknown han- as befell personstreets, becausebanging of people and friend, you will endear ally adding value those around you around them.have been devashome. only zoning laws that can afTo make informed deci-my lifeaway Robertand F. Kennedy, who wasto It begins with oneThe heart at athing I hated more than a pathway forward.

Families dle;leader it requires the involvewith from differing views. yourself immensely to those around fect neighborhoods daily.

Now think about those closest to Tommy and I refined ourtime, planand every Bar was a Zagnut, which was a and busi- sions, it’s crucial for votersYours to can assassinated in Los Angeles. it startsClark with each tated, lives lost and the com- ment of educators, mental be as well. you — your inner circle. These are the you. When trust is given, loyalty is Beginfamiliarize with yourself year. Question: Do I Clark Bar covered with toenail clippings. alike.Dickerson These decisions themselves withReflection alsonesses sadlyDoug remember the one of us individually. as a whole is shaken. professionals and,is earned,I trust earned.

When loyalty writes and onesmunity with whom you have forged a health We’d start withfor theall bigger houses on Tommy and I would keep going until it don’tassassination just affect a few; they Before the candidates their platof you and I canand possiWhat is most alarming most importantly, commu- attempted genuinely show respect is secured. speaks about leadership.

Read more deeper relationship by designisand that thea tunnel, doug where dickerson the waswrites well beyond our 8:30 p.m. deadline. effects acrossbly themake forms.

Understanding Ronald Reagan. a positive differencewho people,the andother howside canof I do normalization thisThese vi- nity members.

The reward point for others President is that create at ripple www.dougdickerson.net/.

Email you,the by and large, do lifeofwith. “rich” peopleso? handed out full-size, entire county.

Voting stands itformust what, and how better job we have the at- in this in our world, begin and speaks aboutWe thenever topicarrived home until after olence, toclose We must alsothat encourage of doing they know you will always And have now, him at dougdickersonleadership@ people makethe upreluctance your tribe of election means having alignheart with your withintheir each policies individual’s tempted assassination of for- a say of leadership. Learn more at confront it head-on and theand responsible gun ownership their back. gmail.com. confidants, mentors or mentees,

”As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” — Proverbs 27:17

n the age of instant access to information, discerning fact from fiction has become a critical skill for all citizens. Every day, we are bombarded with news and opinions from countless sources — many of which may not be reliable.

As we approach critical moments such as elections or public decision-making, ensuring the integrity of the information we consume is more important than ever. The recent rampant spread of misinformation surrounding Hurricane Helene relief efforts is just one example that reminds us of the essential steps we should all take to verify the reliability of the news we encounter. It is a guide that encourages vigilance, transparency and self-awareness.

The first step is understanding where your information is coming from. Social media platforms have become the primary source of news for many, yet they are also breeding grounds for misinformation. Most agencies, organizations and businesses wisely advise against relying on social media or websites that use deceptive web addresses (like those ending in “.com. co”) designed to impersonate legitimate news outlets.

Instead, they recommend looking for credible sources, such as organizations ending in “.org” or from es-

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JOURNAL SCENE

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Editorial Commentary Editorial Your leadership rewards program The sweet taste of Halloween

The importance of Confronting fact-checking in Sgun violence in information age Berkeley County

I

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Editorial Board Charleston City Paper

The Summerville

BRandOn ROBeRTs, Editor

JOURNAL SCENE

Wednesday, October 16, 2024

SECOND PLACE

G

Dorchester County

A A

Take the high road in how taxpayer money is and mind. vision foraccountable the county, empowmer president Donald Trump.

I am dougdickerson.net. Email lack of sustained public dis- and safe storage practices. spent we andare what priorities take youand to vote with So purpose.At some point in time, with him at dougdickersonleaderfor myers words actions.

Once again, a nation course around it.

Gun violence is not only precedence in your commuit’s a focusison ecodivided. are you.Whether That benchmark all “living peacefully togethship@gmail.com.

Gun violence is not just a about crime but also accinomic development, improvtoincithe Editor nity. statistic. It leaves lasting dents Letters and domestic Moreover, Dorchester ing schools or addressing enemotional, social and ecodents that could be preventCounty is growing rapidly. vironmental concerns, this recently listened to actor Stanley it in the unthinkable act of mowing my nomic scars on the entire ed with better education Swift action needed days, avercles. It’s only a matter someone is inseriously in- will set the tone for With of new developments, election Tucci being interviewed about getown yard. But when I glanced down, I community.

From schoolblock over and eight awareness.

Local workaging 3,321 time before a pedestrian is challenges jured. forshootings pedestrian, dustries and arisDorchester County’s future. ting older, and he shared some noticed that my bleeding forearm to domestic vioshopsvehicles on gundaily. safety, more of these checks hurt or killed again.

We urge our ing from this expansion, it’s town leaders In the end, democracy words of wisdom. (No, he didn’t suggest looked like I had been hired to give traffic lencesafety incidents and streetAlarmingly, al- robust15% background drivers — about 498 per South Carolina has the to take swift action.

The moretoimportant ever to thrives on participation.

Vot- of that older people more each of our tercations that turn deadly, and a renewed focus on confess employingthan the occasional know” about the habitation local andshould utilityspend workers have a legitimate rea-local feral cats a pill.

Dear Editor, day — were speeding exces- eighth-highest traffic well-being ensurefatalithat leaders are of our commuing is“characters” your opportunity towheels.” time their and nose hairpeopleApparently, violence touches all asmental health beservicesty rate in thehalf-truth. and “big Mygrooming late son forear knowing where live; but I have developed what a Asgun residents of Summersively, some reaching country. Our nity depends on it.

– even though my we should.) saidonly thatso much slightly more elderly friend of mine to manage these movcontribute to shaping of increasingly life. It disrupts the bemph partin ofathe soluInequipped order father was a realtor when I was in grade brain willHe hold inforville,pects we are tween should 57 and 69 community could face to a keep conversations Brian Protheroe we shouldn’t let aging calls “old man skin.” This is when your responsibly.

Thismumble, Dorchester peace and security that resition. ing (and save face), I sometimes school. County I helpedand dad enand the Kiwanis mation, and it had better be essential. concerned about the dan30-mph zone. This tragic outcome ifchanges we don’t Summerville consume us because skin, especially on your forearms and election will play aqueries, key role“You in sureClub that the voices of all itsselling peanuts. dents cherish erodes amounts the Moreover, hold of” when someone go door-to-door Frankly, “righty tighty, lefty loosey” and gerous traffic issuesand across to around we 20 need toact soon. “Sort We urgently need thereisisno so ‘I’ much for uscome shins, takes on the resilience of gift bag deciding whether county are heard. trust we place in each other ourper elected know where ol’ (fill-in-the-blank) lives, residents The family usedAs toyou take “There in team” in more Thetheperfect town.

Despite repeated speeders hour, aofficials serious ac-basic infrastructure like to see and do.

Or, in tissue – and not even the kind with thrives, stagnates or declines head to the polls, remember as neighbors. countable.

Decisions made don’t you?” leisurely Sunday afterhandy than knowing where my third complaints and requests for threat to public safety. sidewalks — on both sides opportunity

I

10 p.m., our feet raw.

After getting lectured for embarrassing our mothers by knocking on people’s doors so late, we locked ourselves in our bedrooms to take inventory of our considerable stash.

What a thrill to dump a full pillowcase of candy onto the carpet, organize it by category and bask in our newfound wealth.

Of course, that wonderful feeling was soon overcome by the fear that our siblings would find where we’d hide it — so we’d spit on it!

Alas, that is how Halloween was for millions of baby boom kids in the ‘70s.

We learned to navigate dark alleys and busy roads. We learned to avoid mean dogs. We learned to outwit older kids who roamed the streets taking candy from younger kids.

I don’t eat candy often, but when I enjoy a Baby Ruth, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup or Kit Kat now, the taste transports me instantly back to 1972, when I was a 10-year-old kid working like mad to fill my pillowcase with junk food my parents would never spend their hard-earned money on at the store.

See Tom Purcell’s syndicated column, humor books and funny videos featuring his dog, Thurber, at TomPurcell.com. Email him at Tom@TomPurcell.com.

Mysterious old man maladies I you live?

Do I know where

part, I wasn’t worried.

Unfortunately, after my annual physical exam, my doctor informed me that, in addition to giving his staff a good laugh, my exam revealed that my prostate gland might be in trouble and that I needed more tests involving uncomfortable situations with strangers wearing scrubs.

Thankfully, the test results revealed that the only thing wrong with my

May 16, 2024

EDITORIAL WRITING

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

FIRST PLACE

Charles Swenson Coastal Observer

‘Fair share’ gets smaller I

Opinion Opinion

South Carolina

November 14, 2024

Sales ta Environment Bible County voters Natural resources County’s natural resource planVote back Nopinching reason to disqualify player Providing pennies WHSout of the swamp answers 10-year update to the Georgetown P County comprehensive plan that started The Lower State tennis

To the editor: tives aligned; however, the the health of open shellthe edit Maybe – finally – the revisions to the strength of fish harvestingTo grounds,”

To the editor: know happened probably a response eople awoke Nov. 5 inwhat a divided land.at it was I strong Georgetown County com- the verbiage and outright could be interpreted as This letter a reparents, playersthey and to prehensive one of their town Coun Beforeisthey wentthe to bed that night, plan players will be cuts to the objectives were to mean the regulation of To the editor: sponse to Alex Tomovski’s administration meeting chirping to him.

And I not fully adopted by the end in line with the recomshellfish beds is under the vote for th realized just how divided.

“Crime is on the ram-purview of Georgetown request to help their fami- last week. I do feel like the definitely did not see him of thisfive year.

Earlier this mendations passed unanect sales ta years ago hasn’t always run smoothly.

A recount thisifweek in a referenpage …

People are frightly try to redact some ofwas the held appeal, submitted at all, grab his crotch, at least week, County Council imously by the Planning County, rathertion than thet sales the local sales Land with the highest ened. They are afraid toS.C. Department of Natuthings dum said on about Loganoption was too late.tax that failed not in any wayuse, that the was voted on amendments toelement Commission.

This raised during the walk the streets – not only in thebyCoastal Logan playing just 54 Observer votes, a number that was became even inappropriate. the natural resources elGuys grab concerns. ral Resources. profile because of its regular use, was contenement, the last element In the most recent Furthermore, These a dis- p but in theverdayarticle tighter covering thethe high somemargin inspiredreported ball. The crotches all the time at night from 64-vote in their tious. was had a added win-win completed, and one just sent and back to the claimer has been to time asnew well.”

There is a “asteep schoolthe Lower State finals was going allbesports to Resilience make ad- sion unofficial resultsmatch on election night.great in to dents.

The of the learning most Just contentious.

Commission thelast beginning the goals curve.

Natural resources, the to of preoccupation with mamatch on May 1. from my courtside vanwatch Planning Among voters on the Waccamaw Neck, justments.

It now goes back to the by council, staff … and to indicate the tax terialism … the a world rot-and objectives of There were a lot of tage point. The points tennis hall of famer Rafacome up for approval, was snakebit. may be asoption sales taxreally failedgood, by just three whic ting …members throughreturned its ownthat some goalsitors things the thatlocal I totally diswere and the el Planning Nadal. Commission for council their recommendation beto the Planning Commispirational and more After the Planning Commission approved out of more than 19,000. was elecreducesuitpro agreedvotes with that evening. atmosphere Hopefully more folks corruption … Immorality fore it is (hopefully) on the sion version and made mi- able for internal policies, the plan for preserving protecting locals and The companion referendum a capital who permeatesand every phase of the Mainly, the idea that Lo- tric.

And mostfor importantwere there willreading come agenda for a third nor edits while maintain- rather than suggested for life … insubstance speech, clothing, needed pr gan didproject anything thattax warly, the boys playing the to and Logan’s rescue,abundant sales enjoyed a landslide victory county’s resources in public hearing atand the ing the of November the codification through ordiamusements, literaturenances. rantedin hiscomparison. disqualification matchby didn’t have any is- help him reclaim his out our c council meeting on repDec. Planning Commission-apIt passed 754 votes in the 2022, County gave staff its approval and relationships.” from the match which in sues. They were all play- utation as a great youngCouncil visitors pa 10. proved goals and objecWe hope the Planning entire county and by 11 votes on the Wactwo months later to makelike revisions goals will Sounds our worldto turn cost the team an op- ing some good tennis. The playerThe and teammate. adoption of this eltives.

Commission willapprove pay les camaw Neck. today.

However, these portunity of winning Low- match should have conDavid Bromberg ement and has been a drawn- that For example, in Goal these amendments As and it st objectives were deemed toooffarTheplaying local option tax hasPlain failed twice out process. TheLitchfield Planning 4 the objective to reopen resourc-in words were offered

by Bil-move the natural er State and for tinued. and simple. counties reaching, potentially too be- forward Commission beds in Murrells and es element so the before, but it is getting Icloser.

What is didn’t conly Graham inexpensive 1972. the State championship. personally The writer recommendis a USPTA shellfish have alrea ed a version inhead Novemhas been revised to the process yond county’s direct control.

In faceof implementing have done surveys, I don’t know to the sta- hear anything said professional andthe pro InletWe founding county officials is thatLogan the local ed at least ber 2022 that wasRegionsignifi- focus on’til water quality im- the goals through orditalked we’re hoarse, tus of option the appeal for his to their players, and I was at the Waccamaw of public outcry, the plan was tabled in July is the tax that should have passed. It’s tax and it’ edited by staff and provements, tried to findwhich “the the rootnances can begin. These disqualification nor do I right there. And if he did al cantly Tennis Center. the tax that appeals to naked self-interest. catch up. before it received the second of three council2023 between readS.C. Department of Natobjectives were the result cause” and yet there seem ings before being readings. tabled ural Resources considers of a lengthy stakeholder Horry, Wi You vote to increase the sales tax in order to required to be no answers. while the land use elein its review of harvesting and community engageCharleston get a credit on the value of the taxable propThe answer is in thement It wasWe brought back this fall.

The commisment was drafted. ap- areas.

The previous lanprocess and, paying we beerty thatera you own, such as real estate, vehiMcCarthy most widely read book oflieve, reflect theare plaud sion the council’s dis- guage, “strive to reopen will of the considered the plan briefly last month taxes, but all time:shellfish the Bible. cles and boats. And the Waccamaw Neck, as cernment in ensuring the closed harvest- 96 percent of Georgetown and voted not toing address it further without a II Chronicles 7:14: goals and objecgrounds and maintain County residents who realmost everyone here knows, accounts for 80 elements’ “seek Face and turn formal order from theMycouncil. percent of the real estate value in the county. from their wicked ways, It was placed on the council agenda for What’s not to like about a tax credit?

2024 To the editor: a partner in defeating the Jr.Election then I will hear … will fortwice.

Nothing, according to halfmindset, of the voters reading. mistake A shout out to Mr. Sil- Hitler and a in fact givewas theirasin, and will so healit was The first American vot-That last week’s election. verman and his letter to of Jewish Holocaust. land.”only to come up later er is why this from country struck the their agenda, the editor But (“Echoes of thehalf, and His 54 suggestion I vote Genesis 12:2: “I will a messiah, a the other others, saw a doesn’t need at the same meeting for an unannounced McCarthy era,” April Republican made is silly.during Trump gift from God, to make her make you a great nation, problem.

Based25). on comments formed the Republican If the Democrats don’t To the editor: vote to restore it to the agenda atI the It was meetings a refreshing voice won 74 million votes, no and I will bless you … will next great and Trump deliveredit held before the election and on thethecenAs I take stock of Party into a big tent pop- pivot toward To from a professional histo- real mandate for Biden ing bless those who bless you the message. meeting for third reading.

That was also In seca 1 Trump’s massive victory ulist movement that will ter they will remain Election Day, some of those people thought rian. and policies he has purthetoone who cursesond fiddle nationally Good old days on the and be hard beat in coming but the following conclusions the British wrong, but the council voted to remand the was too to besued. true. How can you I it have to good appreciI will cycles. curse.” Trump I don’t think they will rehorizon election emerge: will continue. you mons, Win plan and the staff changes to the Planning increase taxes and lower taxes at ate and acknowledge Frankly, allthe thesame inde- God bless Matthew 7:12: “Howour newelection young focused on kitchen taform. They aresaid, a central• The 2020 “tho those time? who separate fact the pendent votersof are caught leaders you like want people toly-driven machine led by with facts aboutforever Surely that’s definition voodoo ble issues economics, was rigged.

The COVID-reCommission review. learn from from fiction, as we all are between a rock and hard history, America-first and them.” pub- neo-Marxists. Their brand you, so treat they’re better at treat lated loosening of voting taxation.

That is scheduled for today. doomed The Democrats to mostto safeguards than encouraged aware about Anlocal place.

So tosales explain why leadership Is it coincidental thathas grown toxic many, lic safety.

Foropinions. many, the option tax works 1961 members ofhave the “gone commission arepeople whoInaren’t gave us open borders, big regular Democrats to undertake old quote about history: your recommendation be- who things South” lost theirThree way, assumas advertised. In an area with a large number massive iment beg government intervention brainwashed by the meballotsince stuffing op- natural “when we forget it we are comes smoke: Obama won ing since removing prayer too much. new the resources plan was ofto tourists, it provides a large amount adand divisive woke identierations in key swing dis- from et Commu doomed repeat it.” twice, Carter only of once, our schools; subsi-dia.

Rensselear Hoffman approved.

The four others can’t be blamed ty politics.

• We live in a great tricts which granted Biden structed a stateSr. law, 71 percent of Theditional attack revenue. letter ofByBush once, and Bush Pawleys Island dizing one-parent families a narrow victory. if they findWith themselves tired of the whole Allied co Kevin that Glynn (Maybe 9)used with for a property tax credit. with government funds; must most voting safeguards rean opinion and who suggeschoosing not to supportalong the Berlin to pr process. theordelay and missteps For those rent or whose property has a stored by 2024, the But centertion onlow how to think, sadIsrael? value, the savings may be slim to none. right nature the electorReaders invited to write letters wayofshould not be There allowed to obscure the fact mans from ly only clings to an idea, is no such thing Germany. ate shined forth like it did That’s why the tax is considered regressive, that their original was ambitious The Coastal Observ- coastalobserver.com or as plan opinion or personal emocoincidence in God’s and Germany in 2016. 2020 was a fluke something many voters noted. er welcomes letters from byelection emaildirect. to letters@coasttions. I hope truth wins. see RoIt captured the importance ofvesting natural with horrible con- plans/purposes; To the editor: isn’t onneous God’s appo But the local option sales tax is one of the mail mans I recall the era differ- readers on topics of public alobserver.com sequences for or theby nation, The8:28.

Bible, God’s word, proved list either. similar na resources to a county that has avoided the but 2024 set things right. calls homosexuality an Providing welfare for onlyCIA, ways theagencounty can raise revenue and personal interest. to to P.O. Box 1170, Pawleys ently: the new Renee Bruce Dissimilar rampant of its coastal neighbors.

• The Democratgrowth coup abomination.

I couldn’t to Send letters SC 29585. cy after OSS, and Tradition Clubthose physically provide the Russia services residents want.online That’sat Island, ic able systems

t’s the peak of budget season in Georgetown County, and the question on everyone’s mind is: What do we get for our tax dollars? That is heard loudest on Waccamaw Neck, which accounts for 80 percent of Georgetown County’s property tax values.

That number is a source of concern to many, but not always for the same reason.

There are Waccamaw Neck residents who question whether they are getting services in proportion to their contribution. They can take some comfort in looking at the numbers more closely. Waccamaw Neck residents who own their own homes actually account for just 30 percent of the county’s taxable property value, according to figures compiled by the auditor’s office last year. That’s an interesting number because these taxpayers have three representatives on County Council, or 42 percent, based on the area’s population in 2020.

Non-resident homeowners on Waccamaw Neck account for 43 percent of the county’s taxable property values. They have no say in who represents them on County Council. The Election non-resident homeowners, like the owners of commercial property, are assessed at a rate 50 percent higher than resident property owners.

It’s worth noting that, under state law, owner-occupied property does not pay taxes to fund school district operations. Our children’s education is paid for mostly by nonresidents and businesses.

So the sense of grievance that some residents feel about property taxes is not justified by the 80 percent number, even though that is the one that is used most often. Understandably, “where’s our 30 percent?” doesn’t have the same ring.

The 80 percent figure is a concern to officials who recognize that it is the result of having expensive property along the ocean, creeks and river; property that is vulnerable to hurricanes. This year, the budget will against Biden that was in- an findemergency a reference to services pedo- work is a sin. RememIf there eleinclude an emergency fund to help speed because of state law that limits how much being stalled an unprepared, philia but I’m pretty sure ber God arranged for the the ment in thecancomprehensive plan it would saylandowner disaster recovery and an increase in the them. to property values and tax rates can increase. far-left, Harris as the God would not be in favor wealthy Legislature so late in the cycle of it. Same leave grain in the field for The difference between the two taxes was didate “protect county’s reserves so that it can continue to and serve.”

No sex onemarriage wouldinsuggest doomed Democrat dreams a Christian church is a di- Ruth to harvest. that one appealed to self-interest, the other operate if that 80 percent is battered by a changing “help when we can” of clinging to power.that The to rect slap inout the face to God Drug addiction could to community interest. The capital projects storm. That concern is also driving a push for Democrats should havepeople and Jesus. be stopped by the death or “enourage to educate themselves tax provides many small benefits.

Only a held a primary with viable Giving children med- penalty for those providinfrastructure improvements in the western The natural resources element

By Andy Brackbenefit the Waccamaw carry law directly, we’d passed last about yearThe tosafety.” some renewable projects. candidates. obviousication energy to change their ing the poison. Death penhandful Neck part of the county. The Waccamaw Neck may Tomurderthe edit The most regressive legislative race to permitless carry.

But while thatand kind of dysfuncshould be no It should leave ly senile Biden should notdifferent. gender performing altyno forone heinous but half the voters – and 54 others – seemed Many be the goose laying golden eggs, but for the session in a century just ended.

“Or undoing a limited incomehad a good policy im-protect have been allowedtional to run.karma sexcounty’s change operations on ers should be quick andti in doubt that the goal is to think they would serve a greater good.voucher to •move thatViolent Trum The mainstream children isn’tthe mentioned Onto one hand, thank goodness. based school to an pactmein this instance, dark sidenot take years. county it’s too many eggs in one basket. and preserve.

That’s really a big win.

Facts better than opinions

Reflecting on the lessons of Nov. 5 w The

Tackling ‘un-American’

Little good came from this year’s session

Casti

dia are– liars and won charlaeither, but I am pretty belong int The amount of damage that state unlimited voucher system which too much.

Not only didsure stategang membersdictator; tans. percent lawmakers of me- God not into favor can him kill lawmakers can keep doing is now thankfully didn’t pass the90Senate. failisagain passofaimhatejail where they pared dia outlets are mere echo moral people changing his each other and not be allimited. All they’ve got left to do is All so we could prove to the 7 per- crimes law, but they again failed to haven’t be chambers for Democrat creation. lowed on our streets.

Dedeal with the $13 billion state budcent of South Carolinians who vote show a little empathy for people sufhim so the Readers invited to write letters messaging Thenby there is human means it get in a conference committee plus in Republican primaries how ‘con-operations. fering from pain passing a long-porting them just country The Coastal Observ- to fit space and style re- The pollsters by extension trafficking, mostly wom- will be a while before theyw some other matters. servative’ we are.” proposed measure to allow medical immigrant er welcomes letters from quirements. are corrupt and incompe- en and children being come back.

Butreaders on the other hand, they If there’s one good outcome of marijuana. on topics of public Send letters online at tent. Normal people need forced into sexual slavery.

Demo If we have vote 20 million provedand this year they are hellbent the session, it’s something law-news Lawmakers alsomentioned failed to pass personal interest. coastalobserver.com or to findthat better out- That isn’t ei- illegals allowed to “Very stay in on pushing us back to include times when makers did not do yet: a the conaled billlike to allow liquor stores to openour They should by email to letters@coastletspass andTo stop being ther. Nor ismore forced slavery country, editor: dangerous road than the devil will

Traffic Well-written, well-reasoned editorials that take on some tough issues and some not always popular stances.

Land use

The solution to growth

realize tha

E.A. RAMSAUR AWARD FOR EDITORIAL WRITING

ALL DAILY DIVISION

THIRD PLACE 6A 6A SATURDAY

SATURDAY The First Amendment

Viewpoints Viewpoints 5B Viewpoints 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.

Richard S. Whiting Index-Journal SUNDAY June 8, 2024

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.

March 2, 2024

SECOND PLACE

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.

September 8, 2024

Changing and adapting, but not dying Locally owned since 1919

Locally owned since 1919 Mundy Burns Price President and Publisher

R. Frank Mundy 1915-1982

Richard S. Whiting 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.

OUR VIEW

N

OUR VIEW

Protecting our children We must protect our children.

Right?

Isn’t that what we hear almost constantly from our lawmakers?

Indeed, let us protect them by not providing sensible and age-appropriate sex education.

Let us protect them by not providing access to birth control because, after all, they won’t have unprotected sex if they’re told not to by their parents and guardians.

Let us protect them by forcing them to bring forth the next life they brought forth because, as it turns out, they had unprotected sex despite being told not to or they were the victim of a date rape they were too afraid to tell anyone about — especially the parent or guardian who avoided the topic of sex — until it was too late.

Let us protect them by banning books from the school library, with lists that are not so carefully researched as they are just subjectively judged as offensive or inappropriate “just because.” Because, after all, their parents or guardians cannot be trusted to deem what the children should read. Those are the same parents and guardians, by the way, that are, however, trusted to give the children solid sex education.

Let us protect them by ensuring their parents and guardians get to exercise their Second Amendment rights, even if it means classmates might have unfettered access to all types of weapons capable of wiping out many lives on the school grounds.

Let us protect them by pooh-poohing so-called Red Flag laws and ignoring signs and warnings of a student’s potential danger to himself and others.

Let us protect them — well, the ones that have not been shot — by sending law enforcement to the scene of each school mass shooting. Because that’s far more effective than actually addressing the fact that yes, America really does have a gun problem.

Let’s protect them by having mass shooter drills for elementary school-aged children who should be learning cute songs and playground games instead.

Because that’s far more effective than than actually addressing the fact that yes, America really does have a gun problem.

Winder, Georgia was just one of those anomalies, right? Because, after all, our lawmakers and we as a whole nation are absolutely doing the very best we can to protect our children.

Plus, we protect them after each mass shooting when we trot out our cliched “thoughts and prayers” platitudes.

GOVERNMENT CONTACTS Gov. Henry McMaster Office of the Governor 1100 Gervais St.,

pers has declined andS. even as newspapers Richard Whiting have made great strides inEditor moving to the Executive digital platforms, migrating away from o doubt you are familiar with this print products, readership — translation: R. Frank Mundy Eleanor M. Mundy Judith Mundy Burns quote, or some variation of it, paid subscriptions — have not kept pace.

1915-1982 1917-1998 1947-2019 attributed to Twain as his reply to a Additionally, not all former print advertisers reporter, noEditorial less, whoopinions asked Twain about ru- represent have migrated adverin this column the with viewstheir of newspaper this newspaper. mors circulating he wascartoons on his deathbed tising the reach All other that columns, and Letters to partners, the Editormissing reflectout theonviews of the London. the established media outlet provides in the individual in author.

They are not the opinions of this newspaper.

What an appropriate digital age. reference to draw upon Digital platforms somewhat resemble in addressing rumors that the grocery store’s cereal aisle. Facebook, the IJ is on its deathbed.

LinkedIn, Instagram, X — the list goes on While we are in our and continues to grow.

105th year here in GreenThe IJ is not merely a newspaper. It is an wood, we are not dead or information resource, one that has served dying. its community for more than a century. It Changed?

Yes. has evolved and continues to evolve. With WHITING’S Continuing to change? electronic editions, print editions and a freWRITINGS Absolutely. quently updated website, the Index-Journal RICHARD Change is constant, actually provides aHolland. greater audience reach Hey,change Calhoun Falls Mayor Terrico Just S. WHITING is necessary. than its former print-only self. Moreover, a reminder that elected tobyserve It’s nohere secret that dailyyou itwere serves readers better providingthe news papers are shuttering an alarming all not before and after alike print a product hits the people ofatthe townrateand operate rogue across the nation. It’s also true that some are paper tube. dictator. not shutting down; rather, they are adapting You see, we still have paid professional to the changing world around them.

We are newsdoes gatherers andappreciate other staff responsible It is obvious that Holland not one of those. for producing the content we provide in all being questioned.

Heck, it’s been obvious that he Display advertising in print newspaits forms. ”The reportMundy of my death was an exaggerBurns Price ation.” — MarkPresident Twain and Publisher

1200 Senate St., Suite 305 Columbia, S.C. 29201 Phone: 803-734-2121 Website: cgoffice.sc.gov

Perhaps Calhoun Falls’ mayor wants bananas as cash crop

Locally owned since 1919 It’s just not “free.” Never has been free Richard S. Whiting Mundy Burns Price anymore than any other business gives away President and Publisher Executive Editor its products. Advertisers pay to reach our audience, subscribers pay to consume the R. Frank Mundy Eleanor M. Mundy Judith Mundy Burns news, sports, entertainment and advertising 1915-1982 1917-1998 1947-2019 we deliver. Again, in all its forms.

Does a Editorial one-stop opinions medium in matter you asrepresent the views of this newspaper. this to column a means staying abreastcartoons of the grassroots Allofother columns, and Letters to the Editor reflect the views of the individualyour author. the opinions of this newspaper. news affecting dailyThey lives?are Asnot a means of guiding and shaping your spending, what you do with your free time?

It should, and if it does, then the solution is simple: remain a reader, a subscriber, an advertiser. Don’t advocate the need to “shop local” and then bypass a local business that has been and remains a central resource for all things local.

The IJ is not on its deathbed. We are not dying. But we do need the community’s support, a community that itself has had to adapt in these changing State Sen.times.

Billy Garrett, like many who serve in

OUR VIEW

Sen. Garrett deposits a load of litter

theisstate House Whiting executive editor of and the In-Senate, is an attorney. While he dex-Journal. at 864-943-2522; practice in Greenwood, we has Contact built ahimdecades-long email rwhiting@indexjournal.com, or follow wonder if he needs toinreview the chapter in his law him on X @IJEDITOR. Views expressed book thatofdeals with burden of proof. this column are those the writer only and do not represent the newspaper’ s opinion.

During a subcommittee hearing in Columbia last week that centered on health care for transgen-

Vote for me and I’ll set you free; rap on, brother, rap on

sees no reason to release public information to the der children, discussion rolled around to whether public or media. How about that budget you promchildren are being taught about gender identity in ised, mayor? public schools.

So Lassen,inaeach newly elected councile’re when pretty lateViggo to the national episode, here are some insightful, one of them things weasserted always talk about in proof that a child in Garrett he had partydared celebrating the Apple the mayor’s inspiring lessons from America’ sspend coach: sports? And shouldn’t that apply to people man, question proposal to Greenwood District 50 was “authorized to be a cat television show Ted Lasso, but Inquire: “Be curious, not judgmental.” too?” idn’t really plan on this, deci-so that are supposed to be working on state issues They don’t even blend a picture of themselves or call athough cat, a feline, was encourmoneywe’ve onbeen a consultant planning and zoningbut all I making up for for Possibilities: “You say impossible, Also recently inherself the news, not asbut theand sion’ to run for office. So, I’m and not so much national issues. side by side with Biden in their mailers and time with apparently some major hear is ‘I’m possible.’”physically inspiringaged... as any episode of Ted Lasso: ”s made work, lost Holland had Lassen league binging.

Potential: “I do love a locker room. It Junket. S.C.seeking Attorneyyour General Alan your votes. support, But hey, if they want to bypass Columon their signage. Still, the bulk of the ads, Uh, first of all, Senator, the topic of discussion removedMainly, from the meeting bylikethree of” the town’s we didn’t want smells potential.

Wilson’ s jaunt to the U.S.-Mexico border was Well, actually I guess I’m not running bia and head to Texas, that might be more flyers, signs and mailers I’ve seen are among centered on transgender issues.

What, pray tell, to pay Apple, already too Success: “For me, success is not about little more than a political stunt, notwithpolice rich, officers. for office.

It’ s more like walking since I’m productive than what happens ‘neath the GOP contenders who, it seems, might want any more money. But the wins and losses. It’s about helping these standingdoes denialsthat by thehave wannabe governor tothat’ doswith someone identifying withsometimes. woefully behind the herd already lined Statehouse dome Video Lassen’s removal seen here:of themto better differentiate themselves from one afterof being assaulted in so- youngcan fellasbe be the best versions obsessed with illegal immigration. a cat?

Catch that difference?

“With, ” not “as, ” as you cial media with common selves on and off the field.”

Suefor Berkowitz, director of policymeans at Southyou’d have up the primaries, which Then again, if you attach yourself to the another. https://shorturl.at/hUyGu sense clips from the show Look ahead: “You know what the happiest Carolinaasserted.

Appleseed Legal to Justice write Center, my name in on the likely nominee and promise to support him Man, are the Republicans latching onto that was Holland’s asIt has a and with a new season animalbreaking on Earth is? It’spoint a goldfish. described Wilson’s stunt as a dog whistle to ANDY Perhaps Garrett asserted asafe claim onhelp thebuild fringe ballot. But please do.that manyand that wall, that should help you, Gov. Henry McMaster and Donald Trump, reportedly in the works 10-second memory.

Be a goldfish. ” The Post and Courier: “America is a hahadit seemed not only questioned what he deemed BRACKLassensoon, trotareout to here scare the kitty Dobuild that voter base, right?

What office, youpoop ask? out ofaspeople. a candidate, too. Stands to reason, of course, as McMaster like time to Challenge yourself: “Taking on a challenge ven. People coming because they’re EDITOR, PUBLISHER unnecessary spending town already in trying tosomething figure out what all the fuss byisaa lot like riding a horse, steeped isn’t it? If you’re do what’s best for their children, Well, here again, beingor we’ll Again, the drum beat sounds familiar from has been a Trump supporter before Stormy about it, and soon, be overrun STATEHOUSE REPORT was about. comfortable you’re doing it, you’re because they’re facing crime in their country, so late to the party — and but each.

Theallwall!

The U.S. Constitution — at debt to neighboring Abbeville as while its water supplier Daniels even had Trump at “hello.” It’s a notthey only transgender people, also manAnd we’re glad we did. probably doing it wrong.” not because wantwith to come here and I don’t mean Republican least, that is, the parts threesome (not to be confused with that and Dominion Energy butsaid, he commitner ofinpeople who ” they like and agree The show about an American football coach as its Putpower in the time:provider, “As the man once crimes our country. ” identify as animals. Or “furries, or themselves.

Democratic with! Illegal immigrants! That, of course, French phrase that is also the name of a hired tohas lead an English footballthe (soccer) ‘The harder you work, the luckier you get.’”

Wonder many advertising agency parties — it as how some call also asked mayor — repeatedly, by his own team is hilarious and heartwarming. It’s filled Gut check: “Just listen to your gut, and cameras the GOP had atdoesn’t the border for Wilmatter.

Reckon goes right back to the wall and I’m starting brand of wine): Candidate X, McMaster and brings us Republican back to a basic tenettoof law regardaccount — about thezest. town’s finances general. with aphorisms and advice, zingers and on the way down toin your gut, check in with son and theThis two other junketing I’ll accept whatever office wonder if someone’s not planning to load Trump. Surely a winning ticket.

Its characters jump off the screen.

If Mark your heart.

Between those two things, they’ll attorneys general? ing burdenlands of proof.

On the record in the subcomMayor, you were elected to serve, not to dictate. meofthe most write-in up an Elon Musk rocket and send people to Anyway, go ahead and vote for whoever Twain or Will Rogers were around today, let you know what’s what.”

Poem.mittee With themeeting, deadly killing four WHITING’S Garrett rather emphatically heinstead of dumping them sanctuary said moons Youhave should respect members of council you want. In some cases, it doesn’t seem to either would made a similar showyour years fellow Opportunity: “I think things come into people at a Georgia highvotes. school, you might WRITINGS a poem Greenwood a cat ago. who, along with the townspeople, our lives to helpare us get from one place to a want to had check proof out a 2016

by British It’s also too latechild to get identified off inas New Yorkand and elsewhere. make a difference. And that’s why I figured I fully within This is a comedy that all politicians should better one.” writer Brian Bilston, which opens: wanted a litter box to bebig provided in the bathroom. a batch of those and It’s hard to figure out the ones who say might as well get in one of the races. rights and, we dare say, duty-bound, to ask forthe RICHARD watch, iftheir they haven’t already.

It highlights Ethics: “Doing the right thing is never tea.

S.“England WHITING is a cup of colorful and sometimes they’re goingto to increase health care access this week by the Index-Journal Hey, at least you won’t be bombarded with how to deal people better in moderninformation wrong thing.”about the town’s France, aWhen wheel of asked ripened brie. andwithreceive detailed was Spiderman emories Bellefrom Hav-me littering obnoxious signsGarrett that crowd whileonly simultaneously and of recess expound on that offered that he forcing women yardatsigns the roadsand andI was Batman. I’m society. Instead of everything between poHope: “It may not work out how you Greece, a short, squat olive tree.proof, notflags, sure how I wound en Elementaryadorned School with on Virfinances. litical parties being confrontational and too think it will or how you hope it does. But America is aintersections, gun. the public again, any office of-age girls to carry through with pregnancies American as if to signal up having to be heard it ”from a so grandmother.

Batman. candidate. ginia’s Easternthat Shore remain negative, the showwe is a lesson in how people believeFalls me, it will all work out.” will do, so long as it’ s one listed on my voter and preventing access to medical marijuana.

Last checked, Calhoun is in Abbeville I’m the only real American Got that?andApublisher grandmother.

Not a teacher, not an Andy Brack is editor of Statecan get along and work together, despite Now: “Living in the moment, it’s a gift.

Although I enjoyed that TV show, it fairly vivid my mind’s recesses. registration only leaves Third student.

Dichotomy there, but politicians arein usually You won’t have those pricey post cards cluthouse Report.

Hecard. can beThat reached at feedback@ County.

Abbeville CountyThat’ iss in differences of opinions. whySouth they call itCarolina. the present.” administrator, not eventhe another A grandwas George Reeves as Superman on TV It was third grade. Man, we couldn’t Congressional District, Senate 10 seat and awash in a sea of dichotomy. tering mailbox and the same To getSouth an idea ofCarolina kinds of the sayings Keep at it: “Isn’t the idea of ‘never give up’ statehousereport.com. is in the United States. mother told the lawyer legislator a student tried to thattouting I connected withole the most. Lookwait to hear that it was time foryour recess.

House 13 seat. Take your pick.

It’s amazing too how many who have long and TVing soundbites.

I won’tifbe back, I wonder the Daily Planet, While Italking do not points rememget herslate teacher “letlike hera case do cat in and school.

Yes, Calhoun Falls is small. Yes, it is poor, as The GOP largelyto looks of things served those” who are just getting theirber my classmates’ in a photo op pretending to readClark legislation Lois Lane, Kent and Perry White This apparently at a meeting by its debt to utility providers. And it is VOICESevidenced OF THE PEOPLE cloning.

Have you noticedunfolded that? feetof wetRepubsay they are going to solve our roads with the governor or giving a thumbs up with influenced me enough to get into the names, what I do recall lican that Garrett attended, so must problem. be I mean, itwomen seems nearly to a T, every anditbridges Some have had yearsis all of us signs of being politically unstable. to find a ramble (speech?) by Trump not Either he meant what hethat said about shoota current former president. newspaper career. outsideorrunHe’s ashowing former follower not the same thing as an filled with loathing directing you to ing people overIt’s political or going one oftrue. those folks isdisagreements single-handedly to internet to do it.rumor, At least the newbies express a desire, Meh. mind. But back to the playground and third ning, playing onNever outdoor However, Fallsand is not Honof Fox News; here’sMr. whyMayor, Calhoun hate something about Democrats. hebuild was trolling mebuild for nothe reason other than or help wall on the southern if not the ability.

And how will they fix all the after all, and what grandmother would knowingly equipment that probably I’ll just join the restgrade of yourecess. as we sit back The Hannity duras.headline said Democrats are A Republican once told me he and others toborder. make me angry.

Either way, he doesn’t I had no idea that a state senator roads and bridges without increasing taxes?

The wit and wisdom of Ted Lasso

W

D

Look! Up in the sky! It’s ... better call the parents

M

filled with hatred and loathing. I used the were going to hunt Democrats if they internet’s Wayback Machine to find three old impeached Trump. He shared a smile with random FoxNews websites. Words in head- another man. I asked if he worried they’d lines directed against Democrats: mocks, shoot back. He said, “No. They don’t have heartless, enraged, unbalanced hack, spied guns.” He thought I was a Democrat.

Lingering thoughts aboutany June 6, 1944 and beyond on me, hoax, gaslighting, radical, Marxist, He didn’t say anything when I replied, “I’m trolls, classic fraud scheme, an Independent.

Hello, to the lying. brave slaughtered at Omaha” Beach.

VOICE OF THE PEOPLE

trot out such a claim if it were not so?

wouldn’t meet today’s

Not a one of us had masks or capes or

and watch promises made be promises respect the church or fellow Americans. He ofTemptations’ the usual garb and paraphernalia or the state representative had that power.

U.S.been for Heck, many of the long-termers opposed safety standards and,crank yes, upany broken. And The “Ball How difficult it have you to call isn’t type of person I want towould be around. associated with our favorite TV and chasing senator orschool congressman, yes. raisingaour state’s gas tax for that purpose,the boysofoften I’m still amazed how superintendent so many people can to verify what Confusion. ” the grandcomic book heroes. the girls. Sometimes, Ofmother course,Aeach ofyou, them can little and willIt’s only even though theWe tax had sat at the same level respect Trump. man clearly having told Senator? not difficult at all.

Nope,ofwe although rarely, a few respect for others not completely agreeing do it with the help of none other than Donald for nearly three decades.

Whiting is executive editor thesimply In- declared which one andtoSteve Glenn said the story is false.

WHITING’S with or did, kowtowing him. have we were, ran around the playground, of themdex-Journal. might chaseContact us Trump, when and if he’Democrats s reelected.

Maybe To be fair, many Democrats get on board him at 864-943-2522; a few odd ideas, but they aren’t evil. kids are saying they identify It’s true that some climbed the monkey bars, jumped off boys.

making a hasty retreat from one rooftop to another with his handy Bat Line Launcher.

When recess ended it was back to the classroom and U.S. history or math or English. We might look at each other, cast our eyes back out to the playground and smile, knowing that yet again tomorrow we would be Superman, Spiderman and Batman and not just John, Chuck and Richard.

I no longer run around pretending I’m Batman and I feel safe in saying there’s a good chance my recess pals harbor no illusions of being Superman and Spiderman.

That said, I’m sure glad that was back in the 1960s and not today. Otherwise, chances are that some lawmakers would

Cindi Ross Scoppe The Post and Courier

E.A. RAMSAUR AWARD FOR EDITORIAL WRITING

ALL DAILY DIVISION

FIRST PLACE

David Lauderdale The Island Packet

A sharp voice on important state and local issues. A touch of personality with the voice of reason and expertise. A strength for a small-market newsroom.

HE WEEK

REVIEW PORTFOLIO

OPEN DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

idents on PFAS to spread info

30s and used in industrial d consumer products to ret heat, oil, stains, grease and ter. These substances were o found in firefighting ents called aqueous m-forming foam, which is w it was introduced to Shaw. r Force bases across the untry used AFFF in fire reonse vehicles, hangar fire ppression systems and fire ining areas, and its usage d runoff contributed to

groundwater contamination.

Shaw’s cleanup efforts for PFAS began in 1983 as part of the Environmental Restoration Program, and the base has not used AFFF since.

At Monday night’s meeting, Juv Salomon, remedial project manager with Shaw, reported the Air Force base has spent $148M to date on the Environmental Restoration Program,

SEE PFAS, PAGE A3

Theater opens 85th year with hilarious spin on family dynamics ‘Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike’ has several showtimes

BY ALAYSHA MAPLE alaysha@theitem.com

pus. to tie some. "We needd motivate a Pro' is bat some of while also us]." ts leading up helmingly

STOP, PAGE A8

SEE SHOW, PAGE A13

learning ac-

’s future

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THE SUMTER ITEM

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2024

Call: (803) 774-1226 | E-mail: pressrelease@theitem.com

Whether it’s the number of licks it takes to get to the center of a Tootsie Pop or the peeling of an onion, any good process takes time, patience and a willingness to let its magic flow freely. The same can be said of Sumter Little Theatre’s production of “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike.”

At first glance, it’s a comedic show dusted with its fair share of witty humor, not-so-colorful words and innuendos. But as the story unfolds, it reveals a depth of emotion and understanding that leaves a lasting impression on the soul.

The play, penned by Christopher Durang, is a contemporary reflection of Chekhovian themes, where humor and heartache walk hand in hand. Brought to the SLT stage by Director Eric Lachance, not only did this production serve as Lachance’s directorial debut — a round of applause for such an outstanding start — but also as a warm reminder of our own characteristics and family dynamics.

There’s a gentle familiarity with these characters that makes them feel like old friends. You can laugh at their antics — the kind of laughter you can only find at Sunday dinners surrounded by the folks you know, sometimes hate but always

H / THE SUMTER ITEM

Alaysha Maple The Sumter Item

A2

SLT thespians receive standing ovation following powerful performance on opening night of ‘Sweat’

BY ALAYSHA MAPLE alaysha@theitem.com Hope is such a unique word. Not because of its spelling but because of its meaning.

A four-letter word has the power to lift spirits and change perceptions. To bring about change and restore broken bonds. To be a light on a dark path and a latch to hold one’s heart together.

Hope — such a small word with a big impact. The same could be said for Sumter Little Theatre and its star-studded cast, as they left audience members on their feet and in tears at their impactful performance on opening night of “SWEAT.” Lynn Nottage’s “SWEAT” takes place in the heart of Redding, Pennsylvania, as nine separate, but in some way intermingled, lives navigate the complexities of life as they know it. On our local stage, characters Cynthia (Gwenette Taylor), Tracey (Heather Turner), Jessie (Christine Silva), Jason (Austin McDuffie), Chris (Carlos Waters), Stan (Mark Williams), Brucie (Kelvin Page), Oscar (Kevin Dimas) and Evan (Hugh China) unveil their life stories comprised of dreams deferred, aspirations demolished and resilience tested against the backdrop of the changing industrial industry.

There have been many times after an SLT production’s opening night when I’m left speechless. How could I possibly put into words what transpired on that stage? How could I do the cast, crew and all their comrades justice in a certain number of words?

How could I summarize nearly two hours of local but impactful creativity in one word?

Let’s try this word on for size: awe.

"SWEAT" left me in awe.

Not just because of the emotion these everyday folks — and I mean everyday, from teachers to waiters to family friends — poured into the exchanges between these characters that left my heart clenching. Not just because of the realistic frustration and anger that seeped through the eyes and lips of the actors as they delivered their lines. Not just because of the set, immaculately constructed by Tom Burkett and painted by a number of crafty hands that made the moments shared among the fictional family and friends that much more real and reeling.

All those things contributed to the deep breath I took as the lights dimmed after each scene — but it wasn’t the sole reason for my bated breath every time the house lights went up.

Each scene, each line, each heart-wrenching moment on that all-too-familiar stage contributed to the realization that we miss many opportunities by being narrow-minded about the world around us. From Tracey’s obsession with the way things

SECOND PLACE

A8

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WEDNESDAY-FRIDAY, JUNE 12-14, 2024

A review: ‘Bull Street’ touches on the importance of transparency among generations while being a local cinematic masterpiece

BY ALAYSHA MAPLE alaysha@theitem.com

A REVIEW

Mark Williams and Gwynette Taylor star in “Sweat.”

PHOTOS BY ALAYSHA MAPLE / THE SUMTER ITEM

Carlos Waters, left, and Kelvin Page play father and son in Sumter Little Theatre’s “Sweat.” The production shows from Feb. 29 through March 3.

LEFT: Heather Turner plays “Tracey” in Sumter Little Theatre’s “Sweat.”

RIGHT: Christine Silva plays “Jessie.”

used to be to Cynthia’s dreams of the way things could be, from Jason’s reluctance to understand the turmoil inside him to Chris’ desires to learn about the world around him, from Jessie and Brucie’s lifestyle of living for today to Stan’s reminiscing yet pining about yesteryear, these characters are each so consumed about their own trials that they often forget to sympathize with each other, whom they see every day.

Or for the ones they don’t see, like Oscar. As you watch the production, keep an open ear for the constant swift of a broom and the soft whisper of a dish rag across a vinyl table. Listen for the faint sound of hope in between the banter and booze — that’s Oscar, the one character who, despite the backlash and constant letdown he faces, has the largest sense of hope among the bunch. Despite his background — one which people make constant assumptions about — Oscar dreams of a future where he fulfills his purpose of serving those around him in their time of need.

In small ways, from being a shoulder to lean on as you make your way to the bathroom, to big ways, like stepping up

when everyone else seemed to have stepped out, Oscar is the character I would most want to emulate in my day-to-day life. Despite his trials and tribulations, he remains hopeful that once the rubble clears, there will be a place for him. And if there’s not, he’ll make one — and it’ll be big enough for the people we care about.

But it doesn’t make the other characters villains, at least not to me. Grace is a must when watching the chaos unfold; these characters — based on real emotions from real people going through a real-life flux — are facing the unknown after years of routine.

We should all know how that feels; we were just there nearly four years ago. I commend these actors for their dedication to these roles — I know it couldn’t have been easy. Whether they realize it or not, they held up a mirror to the audience, forcing us to take a long, hard look at our reflections. And with so much happening today — socially, economically, politically, mentally, emotionally — that reflection is not attractive. In moments of tension and stress, we are bound to see sides of ourselves we never knew existed. And after those moments, all we could ever hope for is

REFUND POLICY PRINT SUBSCRIPTIONS (ENROLLED IN THE MONTHLY, QUARTERLY OR ANNUAL EZ PAY PROGRAM)

that someone would show us grace for our shortcomings. These actors, digging deep within themselves to become mirrors for a society, pushed boundaries right off the stage and into the audience’s laps, leaving us to choose who's right, who's wrong, who we are a reflection of and why?

Traci Quinn deserves her metaphorical flowers for her directing of this production. As her first time directing a drama, not only did she meet expectations, but she also exceeded them.

It’s apparent that she created an atmosphere of support and curiosity that allowed her actors to feel comfortable exploring and bringing these characters to life. They moved across the stage with confidence and delivered their lines with fervor, making the entire experience one so good, I had to see it a second time. And apparently, so did other attendees.

On their opening night, the cast earned a resounding standing ovation for their performance, and rightfully so. As the quaint theater cleared, you could hear sniffles and adamant promises to return for another production because that’s just how spectacular the performance was.

But don’t take my word for it, experience it for yourself.

“SWEAT” will show at the theater, at 14 Mood Ave., from Thursday, Feb. 29, to Sunday, March 3. The show will begin at 8 p.m. Thursday – Saturday and at 3 p.m. on Sunday. To purchase tickets, visit sumterlittletheatre.com.

“Let your children tell their children” reads the film poster for “Bull Street.” And the phrase seems simple. But its meaning is profound.

Let your children tell your children derives from the need to foster transparency among the generations. That honesty is truly the best policy when it comes to shaping the opportunities and relationships of a new generation. Without such transparency, those gray areas are left to be filled with doubt, lies and a false sense of understanding. So, when producing a film that sought to convey this powerful lesson, Director Lynn Dow, supported by Executive Producer Wendy Tucker Tannock, gathered a powerful cast to get the job done.

Loretta Devine stuns in the role of Ms. Big Gal, the matriarch of the small community and a near-spitting image of someone’s soulful, supportive but tough-as-nails aunt, grandmother, mother; there will be a moment that is hard to witness solely because of the familiar aura Devine exudes in this character. Complementing her, in both delivery and energy, Malynda Hale’s performance as LouEster Gibbs was nothing short of exceptional. The power behind her delivery of lines and show of emotion made tears in the eyes of many, the only reaction one could convey in response to her performance.

Alongside these two showstopping actresses is Amy Madigan playing Mary Ann Motley, or Judge Motley. In films Madigan has graced, “Bull Street” has to be a favorite of this reporter’s simply because of her natural progression from following the lead of others to stepping out and stepping up to be the voice of reason among the fray. Arielle Prepetit as Kendra Reed was a fresh contrast, as her strong start to the screen would soon simmer as the film progressed, allowing peeks of humanism to come through. The leading women were supported by star-studded castmates including Chantel Maurice as MaeDot, Nicky Buggs as Leila Reed, Madeline McCray as Azell and more.

There wasn’t a moment of

that does not paint the family in the best light. Tell them anyway. Because even though it may be a hard pill to swallow, secrets do more harm to the ones you’re trying to protect than to those you’re trying to avoid.

Let your children tell their children about the strength in resilience and how overcoming adversity shapes one’s character and destiny. That their world extends beyond the overgrown fields and one-stoplight towns. That though it may be scary to journey through life outside of the cocoons we’ve concealed ourselves in, that first flight — and every flight to follow — taken, though filled with scrapes, bumps and bruises along the way, only makes you stronger. That the death of loved ones will feel like a neardeath experience where part of your heart just stops. But keep going. Keep fighting for your chance to fly, be great and be heard.

Let your children tell their children about the significance of legacy and how the stories we pass down define who we are and who we become. Tell them about your own struggles, your mistakes and your triumphs. Tell them how the road to living, merely existing, is not easy and it’s not supposed to be.

Tell them to not be fooled by the people they rub shoulders with, who are in high positions and the face of municipalities and organizations because a smile can only be as good as the tears and pleas hidden behind it. Tell them about your hopes and your dreams — those that failed and those that thrived. Tell them that a “no” is not a “never,” only a “not right now.”

That there is time to become who you’re meant to be. Tell them not to forget those they left behind because though everyone can’t come with you on your journey, leave them in a better place than when you found them.

Let your children tell their children that Dow’s “Bull Street” was more than just a film. It was a chance to see how the actions of one impact the lives of all. Sometimes, that’s not a perspective we’re privy to when making decisions. What Dow does best in this film is allow viewers to see the development of each character. To

LOCAL

THE SUMTER ITEM

Pocalla Steppers are Grand Champions

BRUCE MILLS / THE SUMTER ITEM

The Pocalla Elementary School Steppers are recognized at Monday’s Sumter School District Board of Trustees’ meeting after winning the House Party National Step Show in May in Charlotte, North Carolina. The step team clinched first place in the Elementary School coed division at the competition and also won the title of Grand Champion, marking the first time an elementary team has achieved the honor at the national level, according to event organizers.

SLED’ing into Summer, Write On! camps offered at USC Sumter STAFF REPORT Students entering grades 5-8 have two fun summer camp options at the University of South Carolina Sumter. SLED’ing into Summer is a camp led by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), and Write On! is a camp focusing on creative writing.

SLED’ing into Summer, taught by representatives from SLED, will explore the world of criminal justice including tactical operations, SWAT, aviation, K-9 programs and forensics. The camp fee is $30 per student, and it will be held June 24-28, 9 a.m. to noon, in the Reynolds Gallery of the Williams-Brice-Edwards Administration Building.

For additional information, contact

Emily McCrea at (803) 938-3757 or ER13@ email.sc.edu.

Write On! camp, taught by Vincent Frontero and Dr. Paige Wallace, will feature imaginative writing workshops, character development, nature writing campus expeditions, slam poetry, scavenger hunts and more. Writing camp is $100 per student. It will run July 8-12, 9 a.m. to noon, in the Lecture Hall of the Arts and Letters Building. For more information, contact Dr. Paige Wallace at WALLACBP@ mailbox.sc.edu.

Details and registration information for both camps are located on the USC Sumter Facebook page, Eventbrite.com or on the For The Community tab of uscsumter. edu.

Veteran Resource, Education and Job Fair set for July 9 at South HOPE Center STAFF REPORT The South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce will host a Veteran Resource, Education and Job Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 9, at the South HOPE Center, 1125 S. Lafayette Drive, Sumter.

ployers, veterans service organizations, community service organizations, career services, eduational institutions and more.

Break-out sessions will be held on veteran benefits, financial planning, educational planning and resume writing.

Veterans are encouraged to bring their

Maura Hogan Charleston City Paper

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BEAMing with pride

The Daniel Island News ■ January 4 - 10, 2024

Bishop England student starts music program for senior health EMMA SLAVEN

EMMA SLAVEN emma@thedanielislandnews.com

W

hen Bella Danielson transferred to Bishop England as a sophomore last year, she was disappointed to find out the high school didn’t have any sort of band, orchestra or music program for students.

A cello player since the age of five, she turned her disappointment into an opportunity to bring together Bishop England musicians who wanted to share their passions and talent with their Daniel Island community.

“I had played in the school orchestra since the time I was in kindergarten,” Danielson said. “Music has always been an important part of my life, so it inspired me to start a club that would progress into some sort of EMMA SLAVEN band or orchestra for kids like me.”

The Bishop England Artist and Musician (BEAM) program hosts its first Christmas performance Now a junior, Danielson launched at Oaks Senior Living on Daniel Island, featuring (from left) Dylan Cedeno, Bella Danielson, the Bishop England Artist and Musician Victoria Viduya Jesion, Summer del Valle, Chris Bleau and Logan D’Agostino.

(BEAM) program. From piano to violin, and leadership Danielson introduced to the would be a great place to bring music.” the musical club not only caters to the tunes Bishop England club.

The impact of BEAM on seniors at the of student musicians, it serves a broader “Music is one of the most therapeutic Oaks community has been heartening. “We purpose. activities for our seniors, and we are dedon’t just perform, we talk to them,” DanIn 2020, Danielson’s grandmother, Georlighted with this wonderful relationship with ielson said. “It really does make an impact gia, passed away after battling Lewy body BEAM,” Mandile said. “Bella came to our dementia, which the Alzheimer’s Association because they really enjoy interacting with community with great passion, interest, and says can lead to a decline in memory, reason- us.”

Danielson noted the seniors eagerly antici- leadership to build a relationship with seniors ing and movement. The experience fueled and perform as a group. Now they will even Danielson’s passion for neuroscience and her pate their visits, expressing excitement and stop in to visit with residents beyond playing interest in the therapeutic effects of music on asking when the next performance will be. their instruments.”

Karen Mandile, community relations memory. Inspired by this unique approach, Despite being just three months old, the director at Oaks, is grateful for the passion BEAM’s primary goal is to share the gift of music with seniors living in local centers, with a particular emphasis on memory unit facilities.

“It really interested me in the neuroscience behind dementia and what was the source of it, because it does run in my family,” Danielson said. “There’s a link to music therapy that helps slow down the progression of dementia, which I found really interesting since I’ve been a cello player. So I started doing research on that.”

Danielson, who plans to pursue public health with a neuroscience minor in college, noticed that the Oaks at Daniel Island, an BELLA DANIELSON assisted living center, was right across from Student musicians in BEAM volunteer two to four times a month by performing at Oaks Senior Bishop England and thought, “Wow, this Living, forging relationships with residents and staff.

Bella Danielson (left), founder of BEAM, a club for student musicians to bring music therapy to seniors, is pictured with Karen Mandile, community relations director at Oaks Daniel Island.

BEAM club has already scheduled numerous performances at the Oaks. Two to four times a month, about 15 club musicians play for residents. The program welcomes a variety of musicians, including piano players, guitarists, vocalists, cello and violin players.

Most recently, the student musicians hosted their Christmas program at Oaks.

Senior residents gathered to enjoy the festive cheer brought by BEAM, whose instruments and harmonious voices filled the air with the holiday spirit.

Chris Bleau, a junior at Bishop England and BEAM member, shared why he joined the club. “Playing music and singing for the elderly is so much fun and it feels good to make their day. Music is something that makes me happy and I’m glad I can share that joy with others.”

Summer del Valle, a senior and singer in the group, said the performances have helped build her confidence as a singer. “My favorite memory [from BEAM] is getting to talk and spend time with the residents after I perform. It’s especially good for high school seniors to perform as much as possible to improve as a singer. I’m so grateful for all the performance opportunities BEAM has provided me.”

With the program striking a chord with the school, student musicians, and the assisted living center, it’s clear this is just the beginning for BEAM. For those interested in learning more about the club or supporting its mission, they can contact Bella Danielson, danielsoni15600@behs.com, or Bishop England teacher advisor, Ashlan Fabiano, afabiano@ behs.com.

16 | FEATURE thedanielislandnews.com

The Daniel Island News ■ April 25 - May 1, 2024

LYME IN THE LOWCOUNTRY:

April 25 - May 1, 2024 ■ The Daniel Island News

A ‘Ticky’ Situation

FEATURE | 17

DO BUG BITES TICK YOU OFF?

A Point Hope mother’s tips and tricks to prevent tick bites EMMA SLAVEN

emma@thedanielislandnews.com

M

ore than two decades ago, while living in New Jersey, Point Hope resident Kathy Meis and her four children suffered from a case of Lyme disease firsthand.

Meis and her oldest daughter Katherine, five years old at the time, didn’t expect a day of fun to turn into the start of symptoms that stuck around for the next 10 years.

“We were in the natural history museum with other friends and children,” Meis recounted. “Suddenly, Katherine just sat down on the stairs and said, ‘I can’t walk anymore.’”

Meis, who had suffered from Lyme disease herself, didn’t know their northeastern climate would be a risk factor to cause such a struggle for her and each of her children.

After years of different treatments and co-infections, her daughter Katherine was finally past the worst of it.

Lyme disease, a bacterial infection transmitted through the bite of black-legged ticks, has long been associated with regions in the northeastern and midwestern United States.

Its presence in areas like Charleston, although less common, underscores the importance of awareness and preventive measures for residents and outdoor aficionados. Spending time outdoors during the warmer months is the primary risk factor for Lyme disease.

South Carolina is currently classified as a low-incidence state for the disease. According to the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, the Lowcountry reported 23 cases of Lyme disease in 2023, and only eight cases the year before.

Dr. Adeline Koay, a pediatric infectious diseases specialist at MUSC, said the disease is more commonly found in heavily wooded areas from April to October. These warmer months can impact hikers, campers, and people who like to run, bike, or hunt.

The disease is diagnosed with antibody testing, along with the common signs and symptoms that follow the disease. A red bullseye rash, called erythema migrans, can be found on several patients after a tick bite. Early symptoms include fever, chills, headaches, fatigue, aches, and swollen lymph nodes.

Late symptoms of the disease can be more dangerous, including severe stiffness, facial palsy, dizziness, nerve pain, and arthritis.

“Mine started with an incredible forgetfulness,” Meis recalled. “I felt extremely disoriented and congested, and I’ve never had a sinus infection

thedanielislandnews.com

F SCDHEC

Although the prevalence of Lyme disease is less common in southern areas, the Lowcountry saw an uptick in cases last year.

in the spring before. I actually pulled the tick off of me when it happened, and I went to the doctor and said, ‘I think this is Lyme disease. Here’s the tick!’”

Meis said symptoms manifested differently in each of her children and stressed the importance of early detection and aggressive treatment otherwise the symptoms may last for years.

“When you’re taking your family on hikes or live in a wooded area, and you come home to one person getting very ill in the middle of summer, it’s hard to catch,” she said.

“You have to think of your environment. If symptoms get stranger and you’re not getting answers, I always say test for Lyme disease. It’s really much more prevalent than you’d think.”

Koay underscored the importance of testing for Lyme disease and explained the different treatment options.

“Early diagnosis and proper antibiotic treatment of Lyme disease is important and can help prevent late Lyme disease, which can be more difficult to treat,” she said. “Oral or IV antibiotics are used depending on manifestation.”

Koay said most patients completely recover when treated with a two- to four-week course of oral antibiotics, and those with prolonged symptoms typically get better over time without additional antibiotics, though it can take months to feel well again.

To prevent tick bites, DHEC’s senior public information officer Laura Renwick recommends using Environmental Protection Agency-registered insect repellents containing picaridin, DEET, IR3535, the oil of lemon eucalyptus, or para-menthane-diol.

“After prolonged outdoor exposure, check for ticks as they can hide in the hair, groin area, behind the knees, and under the armpits, and shower

CDC/JAMES GATHANY

This 2007 photograph depicts the pathognomonic erythematous rash in the pattern of a bull’s-eye, referred to as erythema migrans. The rash manifested at the site of a tick bite, on this woman’s posterior upper arm, signifying a case of Lyme disease, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, and transmitted to humans, by the bite of infected black-legged ticks.

daniel island nature notes FRANK CONWAY

rom being eaten by a shark to being sucked on by a tiny mosquito, the thought that another creature might consume you, or at least suck some of the life out of you, is troubling to most people. Tick bites are certainly included.

Ticks are small parasitic arachnids related to spiders, scorpions, and mites. Several kinds of ticks are commonly found in South Carolina, and they will feed on birds, wild mammals, pets, and even humans. They do this by attaching themselves to the host’s skin and feeding on its blood.

Fortunately, ticks generally live in grassy, brushy,

or forested areas, so we are unlikely to encounter them in maintained yards or inside our homes.

To be such small creatures, ticks sometimes have large impacts on their hosts. It’s not blood loss, but the many toxins and diseases ticks can spread that create the greatest concern.

Most people have heard of Lyme disease (see story on page 16), but besides that, tick bites can result in ehrlichiosis, red-meat allergy, southern-tickassociated-rash-ilness (STARI), Rocky Mountain spotted fever, tularemia, babesiosis, and many other conditions.

I once visited an emergency room when a minor red bump at a tick bite site suddenly erupted into a

as soon as possible,” Renwick said.

She also recommends tumbling dry clothes in a dryer on high heat for 10 minutes to kill ticks that may be present on clothing after outdoor activities.

If a tick is found on your body, use a set of clean tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.

“In one steady motion, pull the tick straight out and away from the skin,” Renwick said. “Removing ticks within 24 hours greatly reduces the risk for Lyme disease. Cleanse the area with soap and water or rubbing alcohol.”

From her own experience, Meis also recommended tucking pants into socks, wearing long sleeves, and washing clothing immediately after being outdoors.

Meis said becoming an advocate for herself and her family was an important part in getting the treatment they needed.

“At the time, there was a lack of understanding. Just because Lyme isn’t prevalent here doesn’t mean it should not be considered if something bizarre is happening to your health,” she said.

“I can say that when we moved here, we were relieved to not have to deal with the daily tick checks anymore!”

22 | MEDICAL thedanielislandnews.com

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10 | NEWS thedanielislandnews.com

colorful, tender spot about the diameter of a baseball. Seeking care away from home and after business hours, the ER was my only choice.

The doctor’s final question was when I had last gotten a tetanus shot. “Wouldn’t it be cheaper to get that from my doctor when I get home?” I asked, envisioning the costs of my ER visit. “Probably so,” the doctor replied, “but if you get tetanus, you will probably die.” One more shot, even at a premium price, suddenly sounded like a fine idea!

A paper by Lars Eisen on the National Institutes of Health website identifies some 49 species of ticks currently dining on Americans. A South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control flyer lists our state’s five most commonly encountered ticks as the lone star tick, Gulf Coast tick, American dog tick, black-legged tick, and brown dog tick.

DHEC is also seeking specimen submissions of the newly-arrived Asian longhorned tick, which has been found on dogs and livestock recently. These ticks are capable of parthenogenesis, which, translated from its Greek origins, means “virgin creation.”

The females can actually reproduce without male participation and can rapidly infest host animals or herds.

So how do we share our world safely with ticks?

First, avoid brushing up against tall grass, bushes, shrubs, and trees. Second, keep a watchful eye on your pets and remove any ticks found promptly. If you must enter brushy areas, the Centers for Disease Control have online suggestions for treating clothing, using recommended bug repellants, dressing protectively, and safely removing ticks.

Don’t let these critters keep you out of the woods.

Follow the CDC recommendations, and if a tick does make it onto your body, don’t fret. Most tick bites, when cleaned promptly and properly, cause no problem whatsoever for the person who gets bitten.

The Daniel Island News ■ April 25 - May 1, 2024

Doctors share how to fight off the springtime sneezes and wheezes EMMA SLAVEN

the assault.

Streck noted that about 20-25% of Lowcountry residents grapple with allergies during the pollen season. These allergies stem from a reaction to allergens like pollen, which prompts the body to release different chemicals, including histamine.

“The reaction you feel, affecting everything from UNDERSTANDING the eyes and nose SPRING ALLERGIES to the throat, lungs, Allergies result from an immune system skin, and gastrointestireaction to allergens and affect 50 million people around the United States, according to nal tract, is caused by the release of those chemicals,” allergist Dr. Maria Streck of MUSC Health.

Streck said. “Genetics are also a Spring allergies around Charleston are factor in who is allergic and who is not.” primarily triggered by tree pollen, with The reason some people develop sympoak, pine, willow, and birch trees leading

emma@thedanielislandnews.com

Spring has officially sprung.

It’s a saying that may make you think of colorful blooms and warmer weather, but for some, it’s a season that can trigger sneezing fits, itchy eyes, and asthma symptoms.

While the pleasant weather beckons residents outdoors, the accompanying surge in pollen levels can spell misery for allergy sufferers.

Navigating spring in Charleston requires more than just a love for the outdoors, it also calls for strategies to manage allergies effectively.

toms in the spring and some do not may be due to what is called an IgE sensitivity, said Daniel Island resident Dr. John Ramey, who is an allergist with Roper St. Francis Healthcare.

“IgE sensitivity, also known as an allergic reaction, occurs when the immune system overreacts to a usually harmless substance, such as pollen, pet dander, certain foods, or medications,” he said.

Sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes are hallmarks of pollen allergies, often devoid of fever, which would suggest an infection.

Dr. Ramey advises patients to pay attention to itching, a common sign of allergies, and to track symptoms against pollen exposure and seasonal patterns.

“The severity of symptoms can vary depending on factors such as the type and amount of pollen exposure and individual sensitivity,” he said. “To determine IgE sensitivity to tree pollen, a person should have blood work or skin testing performed.”

The most common allergen during springtime is tree pollen, Ramey noted. Warm, dry, and windy weather tends to increase pollen levels by facilitating the release and spread of pollen grains. The sooner the weather gets warmer, the earlier the pollen season begins.

IDENTIFYING THE SYMPTOMS Recognizing the symptoms of spring allergies is key to distinguishing them from other respiratory issues.

MANAGING THE ALLERGY ONSLAUGHT As pollen dusts the Lowcountry like a

Say good riddance to

mosquitoes, ticks & fleas.

Call The Squad Today

See ALLERGIES on PAGE 23

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Strong writing and storytelling. Chock full of important, in-depth information.

UMC, launches marketing expansion

FAITH REPORTING iation • ssoc Un i

WIN

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n of Comm u

for ’24 Jessica 24 Brodie S.C. United Methodist Advocate $2 copy or by subscription

ethodist As

R W Photo riting, grap h Over y and a ll Publi catio n

March 2024

Much has gone into the preparations for this global assembly, and significant work is before delegates and church leaders when they meet April 23-May 3.

As we journey through Lent toward

the cross and the promise of resurrection, South Carolina Resident Bishop L. Jonathan Holston and the South Carolina Conference Delegation to General Conference are inviting all South Carolina United Methodists

Jessica Brodie S.C. United Methodist Advocate

Jerry Mixco sings “New Day” during a weekday chapel service attended largely by the area’s homeless and those in need.

S.C. bishop, delegation call for season of prayer leading up to General Conference

By Dan O’Mara In April, United Methodists from around the world will gather in Charlotte, North Carolina, for the postponed 2020 General Conference.

SECOND PLACE Photo by Jessica Brodie

sA

M ted

THIRD PLACE

s • S.C. P res ator

DIVISION G

‘A church and then some’

South Main Chapel and Mercy Center marks 10 years of serving Anderson’s needy in name of Jesus

to join them each evening for “24 for ’24,” a season of focused, daily prayer for the 24 days leading up to the General Conference

By Jessica Brodie held in 2024.

See “General Conference,” Page 9 ANDERSON—It’s a chilly winter day, but inside the sanctuary

at South Main Chapel and Mercy Center, the people—and their

Photo by Jessica Brodie

hearts—are strangely warmed.

Advocate affirms Up front, Mr. Jerry lifts a microphone to his lips and closes its relationship with his eyes.

UMC, launches “It’s a new day, and I’m still breathing,” he sings, his olivegreen jacket like a cape as he sways and bobs his head to the marketing expansion

Jerry Mixco sings “New Day” during a weekday chapel service attended largely by the area’s homeless and those in need.

‘A church and then some’ South Main Chapel and Mercy Center marks 10 years of serving Anderson’s needy in name of Jesus

By Jessica Brodie ANDERSON—It’s a chilly winter day, but inside the sanctuary at South Main Chapel and Mercy Center, the people—and their hearts—are strangely warmed.

Up front, Mr. Jerry lifts a microphone to his lips and closes his eyes.

“It’s a new day, and I’m still breathing,” he sings, his olivegreen jacket like a cape as he sways and bobs his head to the

beat. “What a wonderful blessing that I’m receiving.”

All around him, the pews are lined with men and women in similar dress—hoodies and beanies, work boots and layers upon layers. A few sing along, their heads nodding in tandem.

Others just watch, and still others sit, eyes closed and heads bowed while they tap their feet to the music.

See “South Main Chapel and Mercy Center,” Page 10

The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate took time recently to assess its present and future, ultimately affirming its core relationship with The United Methodist Church, adopting a new vision and mission statement, taking steps to grow its digital journalism efforts, and bringing on a marketing coordinator to ensure a successful and viable financial future for the newspaper.

At its meeting Feb. 8, the Advocate’s Board of Trustees adopted four action items related to its future.

The conversations arose out of the recent disaffiliation and separation issues facing the denomination both in South Carolina and worldwide, as well as resulting major financial concerns.

“Our board unanimously supported these action items and believe they will position us well to continue our critical communications ministry as we work to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world,” said Enid Brockington, the Advocate’s board chair. “Founded in 1836, the Advocate is the oldest newspaper in Methodism still in operation, and we have a strong reputation for journalistic excellence. We have won more than 125 journalism awards in the last decade and a half. We know our work is important when it comes to shining the light of Jesus Christ at work through God’s people here in South Carolina.”

Regarding its audience, the Advocate is owning its affiliation, allegiance and bias to United Methodism while welcoming all views of interest to South Carolina United Methodists and to the advancement of knowledge, faith and discipleship.

Disciplined body and soul

See “Advocate Affirms,” Page 13

The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate took time recently to assess its present and future, ultimately affirming its core relationship with The United Methodist Church, adopting a new vision and mission statement, taking steps to grow its digital journalism efforts, and bringing on a marketing coordinator to ensure a successful and viable financial future for the newspaper.

At its meeting Feb. 8, the Advocate’s Board of Trustees adopted four action items related to its future.

The conversations arose out of the recent disaffiliation and separation issues facing the denomination both in South Carolina and worldwide, as well as resulting major financial concerns.

“Our board unanimously supported these action items and believe they will position us well to continue our critical communications ministry as we work to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world,” said Enid Brockington, the Advocate’s board chair. “Founded in 1836, the Advocate is the oldest newspaper in Methodism still in operation, and we have a strong reputation for journalistic excellence. We have won more than 125 journalism awards in the last decade and a half. We know our work is important when it comes to shining the light of Jesus Christ at work through God’s people here in South Carolina.”

Regarding its audience, the Advocate is owning its affiliation, allegiance and bias to United Methodism while welcoming all views of interest to South Carolina United Methodists and to the advancement of knowledge, faith and discipleship.

beat. “What a wonderful blessing that I’m receiving.”

All around him, the pews are lined with men and women in similar dress—hoodies and beanies, work boots and layers upon layers. A few sing along, their heads nodding in tandem.

Others just watch, and still others sit, eyes closed and heads bowed while they tap their feet to the music.

See “South Main Chapel and Mercy Center,” Page 10

See “Advocate Affirms,” Page 13

Disciplined body and soul S.C. pastor embraces holistic wellness while competing in bodybuilders competition

By Jessica Brodie Some pastors practice self-care by meditating or going on contemplation retreats. Others run marathons.

But for the Rev. Destine Spells, her brand of self-care took her all the way to Richmond, Virginia. There she competed and placed in the 2023 Organization of Competitive Bodybuilders Competition, earning first place in her debut and fifth place in the open category.

“It was tough, but I trusted God and said, ‘OK, I can do this,’” Spells said.

Spells, 26, is a supply pastor for the Walterboro Parish, comprising Cumberland and Isaiah United Methodist churches. She has been working out her whole life, inspired and encouraged by her father and siblings, who are all committed heartily to fitness.

When she was younger, she discovered God had blessed her with great physical strength despite her small size. She started working on her strength and found she enjoyed it.

See “Disciplined,” Page 11

Spring Salkehatchie planned for April 1-6

By Jessica Brodie This April, United Methodists will have the chance to gather for a weeklong Spring Salkehatchie mission experience in Bennettsville.

Set for April 1-6, the week will be what

Board Chair Ward Smith calls “a full-blown Salkehatchie.”

Youth ages 14 and older will team up with adults to work on homes in that community for people in desperate need of home repairs.

Smith said Spring Salkehatchie is designed to be like the summer Salkehatchie weeks. The cost is the same, $250, and requires registration as well as, for adults, a background check.

See “Spring Salkehatchie,” Page 13

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Stabbing suspect receives Tuesday April 2, 2024 5 years Volume 15, No. 28

Administrator: amphitheater still months away

Tuesday

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“PRESORTED The site chosen for an amphitheater was one of three considered by the City of Union, city administrator Joe STANDARD” Nichols says.

U.S. Postage Paid The 250-seat amphitheater would be located on a 2.4Union, S.C. 29379 acre site at the intersection of Lakeside Drive and Arthur Boulevard, across the road from Permit the Foster #108Park tennis courts.

“This has been talked about all the way back since 2005,” Nichols said. “A private donor came to me severFind an us amphitheon al years ago. He wanted to look at building Facebook ater that mimicked ones he'd visited in other parts of South Carolina and North Carolina. He had a vision of what he was seeing and what he wanted.”

Whichever site was chosen had to be located on city property to apply for a grant, Nichols said.

The first site considered was the old swimming pool area at Foster Park. All of the concrete seating would have to be removed from the site, Nichols said.

“It would have cost more to remove everything and clean it up than to build a new one across from the tennis courts,” he said.

The second site was on the left side of Veterans Drive, down near the creek, looking up toward Veterans Drive, Nichols said.

The third site would use the old BUC Railway bed as a backdrop.

Woman gets 10 years for fatal stabbing

Land use regs given to council

See AMPHITHEATER, Page 2

When Wayne Smith points to the names of places where he led the music at revivals, camp meetings or other special services. He wrote the name of each place inside his Bible. (Anna Brown photo)

Church to honor longtime music director Wayne Smith

By ANNA BROWN

Around eight years ago the congregation of Fairview Baptist Church asked Wayne Smith if he would serve as their minister of music.

Smith, who will turn 88 on Oct. 30, said he thought at the time he might be too old for the job.

"I said I would sing until they got someone,” he said with a laugh. “They never did get anybody.”

Sunday, Sept. 8, is Wayne Smith Day at Fairview Baptist. During the 11 a.m. service, Wayne will be honored for his more than 65 years of serving the Lord as a church music director in Union County. He has been given the title "Minister of Music Emeritus" at the church and his picture will be displayed in the pastor's study with those of other past

church leaders.

Wayne said he appreciates the honor.

"They didn't have to do it," he said. "I don't want any attention."

The Rev. Jeff Dean, church pastor, said Wayne is truly a servant of the Lord.

“Wayne Smith has become more than a fellow minister to me,” he said.

“He has become my trusted friend and a source of joy to me. Whenever I see

him, I see a faithful friend who serves with all of his heart. As his health has deteriorated over the last several months, I wanted to honor his service to the Lord and to the church.

The title of Minister of Music Emeritus came to mind. He has never wanted any recognition, but he deserves it. When I presented the idea to the leaders and then to the church, See SMITH, Page 2

How did you become interested in firefighting? My husband, Kevin (Kelly-Kelton Fire Chief Kevin Garner) got me into the fire service and I have been in for six years now. I am on Kelly-Kelton and Jonesville fire departments. I am proud to serve our community and help others in their time of need.

PUBLIC SERVANT SPOTLIGHT Favorite TV Show: Any crime shows

Fun fact about you: I love camping, fishing, watching TV and relaxing.

Favorite Movie: Tombstone

U.S. Postage Paid Union, S.C. 29379 Permit #108

50 cents

Three-year old Abrielle Voiselle smiles at her father, Matt, as she sits in the pilot’s seat of the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office helicopter during the annual bookbag giveaway at the Union County Fairgrounds on July 27. More photos are on Page 3B. (Graham Williams photo)

By ANNA BROWN

A Georgia woman accused of stabbing her boyfriend to death in Cross Keys was sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Alexis Fiana Jones, 25, of Deerfield Crossing Drive, Alpharetta, guilty on Aug. 5 in General Sessions Bypleaded ANNA BROWN Court toMatthew voluntary manslaughter. Jones was originally and Amanda charged with say murder in theseen death of Stanley Jones, 33, of Carroll they have Laurens, who died house on Prospect Corner Road on God's hand in in thea way they found eachSept. other1, and in 2022. how they chose theirWilliam McKinnon gave Jones Judge careers. credit for the 684 days she has served in The Carrolls both were the Union County Detention Center. named teachers of the yearAlexis Jones' attorney filed In February, at their respective schools a motion of intent to raise self-defense in - Matthew her at Union case.

County High where he A stand your ground hearing, where the teaches English and decides Amanda atcourt Anderson Millwhether a defendant is entito immunity prosecution based JONES Elementary,tled where she is a from Matthew told Ann he on South Carolina's South Carolina's speech therapist.self-defense Matthew laws was or unsure about trying a Protection of Persons and Property Act,distance was held in April. also was named teacher of long relationship.

After the taking under consideration, a judge thento yearthe for matter the district.

"But she kept talking issuedThis an was order Alexis Jones in has the thedenying second time me andimmunity saying, 'God case. he has been named teacher impressed on me that you theStanley year forJones the district; Theofday died, deputies and Union need to meet this County person," alsocalled received honor onMatthew "We Road started EMS he were to athe residence Prospectsaid.

Corner in 2013. talking on the phone, we concerning a man being unconscious.

Matthew Amanda met,said dated andwhen got marDeputies spokeand with medics who that they were introduced

by AnnJones ried.

Webathroom have been floor. mararrived, they found Stanley on the the wife Rev. for where 12 yearsthey and had now They Shelton, moved him intoofthe kitchenried area Shelton. have said our two room Melvin to administer aidThe to him. Medics thatgirls they were knew and were (Hannah and Haylee). unsureSheltons what may have caused his death, and said they did friends of Matthew and his Matthew said watching administer Narcan in case it was an overdose. family when Melvin was his mother, Betty Ann It was presumed that Jones' death was atlikely to a pastor of Mt. Lebanon Carroll, workdue helped combination things, notably the amount alcohol Baptist of Church andmost maininfluence him of to become consumed, underlyingwhen untreated medical- conditions, tained and the friendship an educator she was a Capt. Melvin Scott Coffer Countyeducation Sheriff's teacher Office left to with pastorthe Union special said. Oakridge Baptist Church for many years. He said he Alexis JonesRidge, said N.C. that Stanleywas was and was in Sandy alsodrunk, experienced by a later to She refusingShelton to come intoreturned the house. said she was program when he finally was in pastor sixth grade able toMt. getLebanon him intotothe house. Shefifth saidorStanley was where comagain. students allowed to plaining of being hot and went into were the bathroom.

"Ann told she felt Alexis shadow Moments later, heme collapsed, said. teachers - he shadwas about telling the her smallowed Georgeanne Rouse Shelike wasGod asked scratches on Stanley's that there was this girl neck. She in her science face, and a wound on his said that class. she didn't in Norththem; Carolina enjoyed my know back whatupcaused that they"I must be that, fromandhim that I needed to meet," drinking, stumbling, and falling. mom throughout my formMatthew said. ative years was always my During the investigation it was learned that Stanley did not die from alcohol, drugs or medical conditions, Coffer said. Investigators learned that Alexis Jones caused the wound Editor's with a note: sharpThis object.

Investigators wereand able to series honors the men women serve Union County as law officers, firefighters, dislocatewho the murder weapon. patchers, andduring others.the If you know of of athe perAlexis JonesEMS fledworkers the area course son working volunteering these that in you investigation.

Sheor was arrested inafter a capacities police chase wouldonlike to see Louisiana Sept.

29,featured, 2022. please contact Anna Brown at anna@unioncountynews.org or call the newspaper at 427According to court records, at the time of her arrest, 1090.)

Alexis Jones had pending chargesare in friends LaurensTina County This week's public servants Wilkeefor and domestic violence Brandy Garner.of a high and aggravated nature, trespassing and ill treatment of animals. Addresses were listName: Brandy Garner ed for her in Alpharetta, Ga., and Mountville, S.C.

“PRESORTED STANDARD”

By ANNA BROWN

Teachers of year sense divine intervention

y GRAHAM WILLIAMS

Proposed land developent regulations for Union ounty have been turned er to county council for view and approval.

Last week, council held a int meeting with the unty's planning commison to review the changes ade to the regulations nce a December 2022 blic meeting.

The regulations are the sult of the comprehensive an the county adopted in 21 as required by the uth Carolina Local overnment Comprehenve Planning Enabling Act 1994. Union County was e of the last counties in e state to approve a comehensive plan. It is the ly county in the state that esn't have some type of nd development regulans.

“The ultimate goal is to t this before Union ounty Council to foster a scussion between coun, the community and the anning commission on hat the next steps need to taken; where do we need go from here?” said ichael Foreman, who has en working with the anning commission to velop the regulations. he draft document itself what the planning comssion wants to hear feedck on from council. This ultimately going to be unty council's decision; s is ultimately going to county council's vote at gets this thing adopt.”

Among the changes ade to the proposed reguions is a subdivision regation - Section 25.5 of the nion County Code of dinances, Foreman said.

“We listened to the comunity and felt like this as a good change to make garding major subdivions,” he said. “It put a ajor delineating line tween what will be major bdivisions and everyng else.”

Under the proposed regations, major subdivions may be cut into seven s or more, Foreman said, “Anything less than

SECOND PLACE

“PRESORTED STANDARD”

August 6, 2024 Volume 15, No. 46

constant insight into education," he said. "The in high school in my 10th and 12th grade years I was in Mr. Jack Kelly's English class and that is when I knew I wanted to go into English."

Matthew said he felt like God has led him on the path to teaching.

"There were too many doors that opened along the way until it couldn't have been anything but divine intervention," he said.

Matthew said Kelly treated his students as if they were older than they were, trusted them and allowed them to develop pride in themselves.

Amanda said her mother, also a teacher, was a big influence on her career choice.

"She was a kindergarten teacher, so I had been in school pretty much all of my life," she said. "I

A Union man was sentenced to five years in prison last month for stabbing another108 man. E. Main St. Everette Rashoid Means,S.C. Union, 31, of 817 N. Church 427-1090 St., entered a N.C. vs.

Alford Plea b e f o r e Judge Dan Hall on July 22 to assault and MEANS b a t t e r y, first degree. Defendants who enter Alford Pleas agree to be sentenced for a crime but do not admit guilt. Means was given credit for the 176 days he served in the Union County Detention Center since his arrest on Jan. 29.

A report said Cpl. Cody Hill responded to the area of Mill Avenue and West Main Street after a call came in about a fight.

Personnel with Union County EMS said two men were fighting but had separated. One was wearing all black and the other was wearing all blue.

Hill found a substantial amount of blood in the roadway and on the driveway of 161 N. Boyce St. Hill then was met by the victim - a 40-year-old Union man - and his girlfriend. The man was bleeding profusely from his leg.

Cevera Lipseywas and her son, Jim. A makeshift tourniquet on his leg. Hill asked what had happened and they told him the victim was stabbed. Hill saw that the tourniquet was not adequately placed. Hill called for EMS and told dispatch the victim had been stabbed multiple times. Hill reapplied the tourniquet with assistance from the girlfriend.

The victim at first did not want to say who stabbed him but finally admitted it

By ANNA BROWN was Means. He was transJONESVILLE ported to Spartanburg - Lizzie Smith says her Medicalaunt, Center.

Cevera Lipsey, made an impression The on girlfriend told Hill her when she was growing up. that Means approached her Lizzie saidwere the boys flocked to Cevera. and the victim as they "When she was a teenager, she and her pulling into the driveway of the younger victim's home.

The sister wore what they called a men began to argue and a pompadour," Lizzie said. "And she had on fight ensured. She said her thefell prettiest lipstick.

She was a foxy boyfriend into a pile of construction lady."material and she saw When that Means was was older, she moved Cevera stabbing him.

www.unioncountynews.org

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Incumbents face opposition on ballot

By ANNA BROWN

The filing deadline for local political offices was scheduled to end Monday, with some offices already contested.

Incumbent District 42 State Rep. Doug Gilliam, a Republican, is challenged by David Gossett, a resident of Countryside Drive in Pacolet.

Incumbent Union County Clerk of Melanie Lawson, a Democrat, is challenged by Stephanie Kitchens, a Republican and Union County Guardian ad litem coordinator.

Realtor Tamiann Adams, a Republican, has filed to run for the Union County Council District 5 seat against incumbent

Democrat Carolyn Rutherford, former longtime Housing Authority employee.

John Glenn, a Democrat who holds the District 2 seat on Union County Council, has filed for re-election.

Republican council members David Sinclair (District 3) and Dr. John Flood (District 6) have filed to run for re-election. Flood will be challenged in the Republican Primary by Jenkins Street resident Rodger Dowty.

16th Circuit Solicitor Kevin Brackett will be challenged in the Republican primary by Tyler Bratton, a public defender who serves Union and York counties.

‘Trust the Lord and do the right thing’

Amanda and Matthew Carroll were named teachers of the year at their respective schools this year.

watched her and saw how much she loved being a teacher."

During her senior year, Amanda shadowed a speech therapist at an elementary school.

"She was really good," Amanda said. "She helped me figure out that speech was where I wanted to be.

I talked with my mom about it and she was real supportive. I prayed about it, what school to go to. I knew I wanted to work with kids, in education, and then when I went to school I found out there lots of options for speech therapists. We could go

into the medical field, in hospitals, nursing homes, an outpatient facility. But when I did internships through school I kept coming back to that I wanted to be in education and the school system."

Amanda and Matthew both said they are humbled to be chosen teacher of the year and realize how special it is for them both to be honored in the same year.

"We wondered how often that happened and it was kind of neat that it happened to us," he said.

to build a house.

"Our grandmother's house was right down there; it still stands," Lizzie said.

"When she (Cevera) would come home she would always tell us she was going to build her house right here, where it is now, and she did it. She set goals. She was ambitious."

"Whatever I wanted to do, I did it," said Cevera, who turned 100 on March 21.

“My word is my bond. Whatever I wanted, I would get it, with the Lord's help. I trust Him. He comes first. I followed Him. I wasn't going to do anything if the Lord wasn't in it."

Favorite Quote: Courage isn't having strength to go on, it's going on when you don't have the strength.

Place you would most like to visit: Niagra Falls.

Name: Tina Wilkie

Who or what influenced you to become involved: I became interested in the rescue and medical side with my ex-husband, Kenneth Black, watching him assist multiple agencies with the commitment, passion and love for our

from Union County to Virginia, where

See COURT, Page 2 wages were better.

One of her goals was

PUBLIC SERVANT SPOTLIGHT

Rank and department or departments: Fifteen years with the Union County Rescue Squad, currently a member of Kelly-Kelton Fire Department

Cevera Lipsey celebrates her 100th birthday

See LIPSEY, Page 2

Lt. Will Long with the Jonesville Fire Department pulls hose in preparation for fighting a fire in the 800 block of Forest Street on March 26. A man on the scene told officials he started a small brush fire that inadvertently spread to an old, abandoned house. Sgt. Lee Chambers of the Jonesville Police Department issued the man a citation for violation of the burn ordinance - he did not get a permit before setting the fire. Multiple fire departments responded to assist Jonesville. (Anna Brown photo)

Couple considers triplets a ‘blessing’

Tina Wilkee and Brandy Garner ing time with my grandkids.

Favorite Food: Mexican

Earlier this month Cevera sat in her recliner, a red and black crocheted blanket across her legs to knock the chill off a cool March day, her sleek, snowy hair swept back from her face. Her fingernails were manicured and polished in preparation for her 100th birthday party, a dinner held at the Pacolet River Baptist Association. Her Bible was spread across her lap. She had to get a newer one; the other is close by, worn, covered, and taped together from use. She has survived 100 years with her sense of humor intact she laughs often as she talks about her life.

Issac Bailey The Sun News

FAITH BEAT REPORTING

OPEN DIVISION

FIRST PLACE

Kenna Coe The Post and Courier

In a category with great reporting, Kenna Coe had the most interesting stories and a great feel for what it is to tell a story of faith.

SPORTS BEAT REPORTING

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

Philip Bowman The Daniel Island News May 2 - 8, 2024 ■ The Daniel Island News

thedanielislandnews.com

SPORTS | 19

Crown ‘em! Bishop England girls’ lacrosse team state champions again PHILIP M. BOWMAN sports@thedanielislandnews.com

The girls’ Class AAAA state lacrosse championship turned out to be a coronation.

The Bishop England girls put a massive beatdown on Riverside High School, posting a 22-2 victory on April 27 in the state championship at Irmo High School.

It was a rare case of no contest, at least at the state championship level.

The game was so lopsided that a running clock was used beginning late in the first half when the Bishops took an 11-1 lead, and it continued the entire second half.

It was the Bishops’ seventh state title in the last eight years, and the only reason why it wasn’t 8-for-8 is the South Carolina High School League ruled the Bishops used an ineligible player last spring, leading to five forfeits.

That decision halted the Bishops’ 98-game winning streak, but it didn’t halt their spirit, passion, and determination, as they finished with a 19-0 record, and a schedule that included total dominance.

The Bishops outscored foes this season by a 327-39 margin and didn’t slow down in the playoffs. They beat Academic Magnet, Philip Simmons High School, Oceanside Collegiate Academy, and Riverside by a combined 75-6 margin.

“It’s great to win it on the field,” Bishop

while recording three assists. Izzy Woods converted five of her six shots into goals and added an assist. Nini Clarke collected three goals, one assist, Marchand 14 -six 20, ground 2024 ■ balls.

The Daniel Island News thedanielislandnews.com SPORTS | 19 Henley Bredemann tallied four goals, two assists, and five ground balls.

Keeper Lizzy Tompkins allowed only one goal in 36 minutes of action.

M. BOWMAN The Bishops doPHILIP face massive losses to graduation in May,sports@thedanielislandnews.com including all the attack and midfield, and Tompkins, the keeper. This The year 2020 wasn’t a good time to launch a high school will be the coach’s biggest rebuilding job. girls’ lacrosse program. Just ask Philip Simmons coach Beth “ I’ ve never lost Smiley. this many people in a single season,” Weiner “I and might Butsaid.

Smiley herhave squad persevered through the COlost four starters, but nothing like this.”

VID-19 pandemic and are quickly becoming a force in the For now, WeinerPalmetto just wants to focus on his State. team’s success. He says this year’s The Iron Horses squad openedisthe 2024 season with seven victothe easiest group of girls to coach. ries in seven games. They outscored foes 125-27.

“We started winning in 2020 with a junior varsity team,” Smiley While the Bishops’ 98-game “The School girls hadLeague’s a lot of enthusiasm, potential and talent. streak ended with said. the High wehaven’t had to shut down.” ruling, the BishopsBut still lost iton the field in 117 games. The Iron Horses did manage to post a 3-0 junior varsity record before calling it a season in ’20. But the team moved That last loss on the field occurred on forward.

April 10, 2017, when the Bishops lost to The Iron Horses fielded a junior varsity and varsity team in Charlotte’s Myers Park. The last time the 2021, and the varsity posted a 2-10 record. The Iron Horses PROVIDED Bishops dropped a decision to a Palmetto showed improvement the following year, winning seven Coach Beth Smiley, lower left, is steadily building a successful girls lacrosse program at Philip Simmons High School with the State school was March 2017,10when games 4, against lossesthey despite losing two key players to team on a hot streak to start 2024. lost to J.L. Mann High School. injuries. season-ending loves lacrosse.”

“They’ve done the work, made the sacrifice and have Weiner, who turnsLast 75 on Junethe 14,Iron plans to finally finished on the positive spring, Horses Mello isn’t the only record holder on the roster. Senior be back next year side as the of Bishops .500 withreload. a 14-4 record, reaching thethedanielislandnews.com second round of accepted the challenge. They have come together and have Maddy Preston owns Iron Horse records with 55 career aseach other’s backs. The best thing about this group is they “That’s the plan,” said. “As long theWeiner Class AAAA playoffs. sists and 126 draw controls. work well as a team.” as I’m on this planet,This I’mseason coaching.” has been nothing but a success.

PSHS girls’ lacrosse checks into 2024 with winning streak

NICOLE GUIDI

STATE CHAMPIONS! The Bishop England girls’ lacrosse team won their seventh state title in eight years, thrashing Riverside, 22-2, on April 27.

England coach Jeff Weiner said. “I felt we MaxPreps.com, took control early and never would have won it last year. We beat all the let up to send the Warriors to only their third teams that played in the (Class) 4-A and 5-A defeat of the season in 20 games.

March 28 - Aprillast 3, 2024 state championships year.”■ The Daniel Island News As usual, the cast of Bishop stars proved The Bishops, who are currently ranked to be too bright for Riverside. the No. 4 team in the country, according to Bo Rosato scored six goals on seven shots

BE girls’ lacrosse stick to winning script

SPORTS | 31

“We are doing very well,” Smiley said. “The competition in the area has been up and down, so you never know. The

Smiley is from New Jersey where lacrosse is a way of life.

But she never participated in the sport until she attended college in Pennsylvania.

She turned out to be a good player and an excellent coach.

The Iron Horses have eight seniors on the team, but several younger players have stepped up, including sophomore Jolie Mello, who already owns the school record with 82 career goals in just a season and a half.

“She’s intense and passionate about the game,” Smiley said. “She wants every player to elevate their game. She just

That’s three impressive decisions on April 4 and 5. girls are coming together. We have eight seniors on the team, by a 51-11 margin. “ We put the best Aynor teams in front and it’s great to watch against High School April 30. them, to see where they started and of us, play them and see what where hap- they are today.” “ They all were (Class) 5-A teams,” said BE coach Jeff Weiner, pens,” Weiner “ We to get It’s quite an accomplishment Smiley is in her 34th year as a lacrosse coach.

BI said.

SHOP & try I RON whose team entered play this week the best teams to come in. That’s“I tell people I started coaching when I was 2 years old,” to beat an undefeated team in a L Iron Horse coach Patrick Gunderson said. “ I Reed Swanson has 15 goals after scoring two HORSE BASEBAL with a 9-0 record. “ And, we beat what the team wants: to play the season.

Smiley said. “But this isn’t about me. It’s about the players. I The Bishop England Bishops finished in round one. knew we were going to be sound. It’s going best.” am proud of the way they have developed.

It’s even more impressive to halt everyone. We try to get the best 13-12 this spring, including an impressive Meanwhile, the Bishop England boys reto get a lot more difficult in the next round.” teams coming into the season, but The Bishops, who had a 98-game two team’s dreams of perfection.

The Iron Horses will put their eight-game ceived a first-round bye and will host Cheraw 7-2 mark in Region 7-AA, which showcases that can be tough because it’s based winning streak come to an end last Three teams? That’s almost an some impressive which advanced with a 1-0when the winning streak on the line when they host on High PHILIP M. BOWMAN what School, the teams did the previous year South Carolinaplayers High and teams. unheard of hat trick.

Bishops, victory over Hampton County.

Brookland-Cayce High School in the the second season.” sports@thedanielislandnews.com School LeagueThe ruled it usedunder an veteran coach Mike Unless you happen to be Darnell, will open the first round of the Class round Bishop on MayEngland 1. Brookland-Cayce a rich Weiner said it’s still hard to The Philip Simmons High School boys’ Riley, who was named all-state, led a balanced Bishop M. BOWMAN ineligible player, continues to PHILIP move High Schoolhas girls’ playoffs against Lee Central High School BE just & PSHS GI RL SOCCER and isteam. seeking to even its record, gauge soccer team had a memorable regular season tradition girls’ offensive attack with 9.3 points per game. She hit 43 how good hisS’team is up the chartsAA when it comes tosports@thedanielislandnews.com state lacrosse Bishop England and Field Philip Simmons both fared extremely percent from two-point range and shared the team lead with the friendly confines of Father Kelly The girls’ team entered round which currently is 12-13. with an 18-3 record and the top prize in itsBE impressive start.

The the first and nationalatrankings.

The Bishops have defeated three despite 147 rebounds. The Bishops had a memorable year, winning well during the 2023-24 basketball season, and, as a result, on April 30. of the Class AA playoffs with a 10-7-2 reGunderson said having back-to-back home Region 8-AAA. Bishops have outscored foes 161They began this week as the No. undefeated teams so far during the Bishops and Iron Horses were well represented when the 20 straight games and finished with a 28-3 record and the Philip Simmons was set to play at Loris 4-2 in Region 7-AA.2 team in the Palmetto gamesthe in the postseason is awhat reflection of the 14 cord, The last thing the Iron Horse faithful State, while in theincluding nine games.

2024 season, and makes PROVIDED region championship.

Coach Paul Runey became the second Region 7-AA and 8-AAA all-star teams were announced. also onFour April 30, first went Bishops dropped last three games in High team’sitgrowth and performance. wanted was for their team to stub its collecTheThe veteran coach said athe fourchecking at No.School, 14 in the nation even more impressive is that England seniors: (Front row)players.

Bo Rosato, Izzygirls’ Woods, Lizzy Tompcoach in state history to reach 800 career victories and ofBishop the in topthe honors to Daniel Island of the Class playoffs. of the regular season but should be in tive soccer toe in the first round of the Class in good the latest round MaxPreps.com pollAAA of Bishops’ game stretch against out-of-state the Bishops beat three undefeated kins, Brynn Schnell andwas Anna (Back row) HenleytoBredeledLordi, the Bishops the Lower State championship game.

The Jack de van Erve theEngler. boys’ Region 6-AALexi The Iron Horses finishedmann, thethe regular shape foe, Green Sealacrosse teams ENGL AND BOYS’ SOCCER teams AAA playoffs, which kicked off on April 29. BI SHOP Simmons’ thatagainst beganfirst-round March 25 with a top in the U.S. co-player teams in consecutive fashion. of year, while BE’sSummer MadisonMatsik, Riley was the Aubrey Noone, Samantha Alex Philip and Nini Clarke.Watson knew he would have to be a leader his senior season and he responded by leading the girls’ 6-AA The Bishops have put up impresagainst season under coach JoshRegion Kubciz withplayer a 14-of the year.

Floyds HighMedina, School,Ohio, whichwould travels to Jack The Iron ledBishops by a pair of all- match The Iron Horses hosted Dillon High OnHorses March were 11, the team to a in 15-11 Philip Simmons’ Robert 8-AAAHopkins early the record recruit-and a trip to the Sweet 16. with 32ingoals, 31Watson assists,was andthe 63Region Johns good measuring stick.

– and Wando its Morales first lossand of the 10 record andindividual a third-place finish Region Cantey Stadium with a 1-8 record. sive team numbers selections: Chris Reed be a School in the first round and showed no signs regionhanded The talented guardwith topped 1,000 points in his career and boys’ player of the year, while thethe Iron Horses’ Tiaing Chaney points.

She also leads Bishops process, has shone brightly Bishops were scheduled campaign, a 14-4 decision. who plays TheThe 8-AAA. The Iron Horses put their two-game Philipalso Simmons girls’ soccer numbers. team, Swanson.

Morales is a sophomore of shifting gears. The Iron Horses posted an his bestper for outing. last to earn all-state honors. He led the Iron the girls’ 8-AAAand top 26 player.

2.7 goals andsaved 2.2 assists withRegion 21aturnovers ground formidable teamand from Henley Bredemann, whoon was On March Bishops winning streak the line against Loris withaan 11-8-1 record, 7-1 in Region like a cagey veteran.15, HeThe scored a career-highto face 8-1 victory.

Horses with 17.7 points while collecting four rebounds per Following an impressive junior season, which was Senior a balls.

Lizzy Tompkins and Maryland before going on spring will matriculate to the Catholic halted Spartanburg’s dream of perteam that has wonprelude three intoathis row.winter, van de Erve led the Bishops in three 8-AAA, was scheduled to play at home “The key is to take it one game at a time,” four goals to push his season total to 18. outing.

Nini Clarke has been a force as junior Piper Hamrick have split break.

University of America in Washfection with a 20-1 victory.

Chaney, meanwhile, provided a spark and leadership to a offensive categories to help his basketball team finish with a wellHe with 30 goals and 10 assists to collecting duties at theyoung keepergirls position andposted are a 3-9 record a dozen games into to record.

After that, the Bishops are sched- ington, D.C., is having a season The following day, Chapin sufteam that 20-9 scored 14.1 points a game while goalsbut perwent game, account for steals 40 points. the1.6 season, on to go undefeated in league play and fered its first loss, a 17-6 setback to uled to face North Carolina powers remember.

6.8 rebounds and 2.1 per contest. Meanwhile,allowing coach only Boreached Rosato,200 who committed to recording four shutouts. capture the Region 8-AAA title. She averaged 11.3 points per Bryan Grevey career victories.

Charlotte Catholic and Myers Park The senior leads the Bishops the Bishops.

PHIL IP M. BOWMAN sports@thedanielislandnews.com

Iron Horse boys’ soccer rides 8-game winning streak Soccer, baseball playoffs hit full spring swing

Hoops all-stars announced for BE, PSHS

UNDER CONTRACT! 1706 Sailmaker Street • Smythe Park 4 Bedrooms • 3 Full & 1 Half Bath • 2,475 Sq Ft • $1,250,000

Juniors Hannah Patterson and Olivia Terry both went over 100 forced turnovers in their careers, as well.

The team gets its leadership from four captains: Emmy Wood, Gianna Phillips, Megan McQuade and Preston.

The rest of the team includes Sydney Hebebrand, Adyson Manocchio, Gianna Piscopal, Schoene Stechmesser, Audrey Ann Porter, Betsy Smith, Lane Bredemann and Savannah Gasperson.

Playoffs begin April 16, and the state championship is slated for April 27.

game.

The Bishops’ Ellis Rollins and Aidan Alexander joined van de Erve on the all-region team while Hannah Rosato, Lilly Hodge and Izzy Woods were BE’s picks for the girls’ all-region team.

Joining Watson on the boys’ all-region team were Weston Coggeshall, Micah Mack and Carlio Jenkins.

Joining Chaney on the girls’ all-region team were Lily Bucetti, Germany Moore, Kenira Holmes and Harper Cohen.

BE GIRLS’ LACROSSE The Bishop England girls’ lacrosse team might have lost to a South Carolina High School League ruling last season, but they still haven’t lost on the playing field since 2017.

The Bishops opened the 2024 season with five victories against no losses. Perhaps the most amazing thing is the Bishops have outscored foes 86-5.

Only Academic Magnet scored on BE in the first four outings. The Bishops blanked Bluffton, Waccamaw and Wilmington’s Hoggard High.

The Bishops defeated Wando 14-4 Monday night. It was Wando’s first loss in four games.

SECOND PLACE

Jacob Phillips Lexington County Chronicle

round

SPORTS BEAT REPORTING

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

FIRST PLACE

Trey Stewart The Greer Citizen

BY TREY STEWART SPORTS EDITOR Down 33-25 to Pendleton at the break, Nash Somero went through his usual halftime routine.

Somero’s pattern is simple. He doesn’t go through layup lines. He passes on putting up practice shots.

In reality, Somero chooses not to do anything at all.

Blue Ridge’s star point guard simply sits on the bench, breathes in heavy, and thinks deep. Every single game—with a Gatorade bottle in hand—that’s Somero’s routine.

On this particular night, Somero thought about his first-half performance. He wasn’t happy.

able jump shot wasn’t falling. Somero was getting good looks all over the floor—the ball just didn’t want to go in the basket, so it seemed.

Potential reality began setting in.

“I was sitting on the bench, thinking to myself ‘Man, this might be it for me. This could be my last game,’” said Somero, a senior. “I didn’t want it to end right there.”

Blue Ridge small forward Paul Bishop saw Somero sitting alone and in thought. Bishop had the majority of the Tigers’ first-half offense with 16 points. He walked over to the team’s senior leader and spoke to him, lifting his spirits.

“I sat down with Nash and told him, straight up, SEE TIGERS | B3

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2024

PRESTON BURCH | THE GREER CITIZEN

Blue Ridge guard Nash Somero dropped 28 points in the Tigers’ first-round victory over Pendleton.

B PRESTON BURCH | THE GREER CITIZEN

The Greer bench celebrates in the third quarter of the Jackets’ 60-45 win over Greenville.

LEAVING NO DOUBT

Jackets dominate Red Raiders in playoff rematch

BY TREY STEWART SPORTS EDITOR There’s a picture sitting on Greer head coach Devin Liferidge’s desk. It’s been there for just over a year.

Liferidge sees it nearly every day.

The photo — taken a year ago — is of now-senior point guard Brayden Lytes.

Lytes is sitting silently on the hardwood gym floor at Greenville High, staring up at the scoreboard.

Through tearstained eyes, Lytes is seen basking in the sadness of the Jackets’ second-round playoff loss to the Red Raiders last year.

That defeat ended Greer’s 2022-23 season.

“I still have that picture in my office,” said Liferidge. “He was just heartbroken.”

“I’ll never forget that feeling,” said Lytes. “My SEE JACKETS | B2

SPORTS

PRESTON BURCH | THE GREER CITIZEN

Greer center Bradyn Durrah got the Jackets off to a hot start, scoring 10 points in the first quarter of play.

Byrnes bulldozes Rock Hill, Fortlayup Mill Henry’s steal,past buzzer-beating points.

Senior Will Fowler averaged 18 points between the two games. Now, he and Byrnes will face a familiar foe in the upper state semifinals: T.L. Hanna.

On Jan. 4, Byrnes and T.L. Hanna faced off at Schofield Gymnasium in a game where Will posted a career-high 41 points.

Now, they meet again with the stakes much higher.

Layne saw the rematch as a possibility since that game.

“I’ll be honest, after that night, it occurred to me that we very well may run into this team again,” said Layne. “They compete really hard every night. We know we’ll have our hands

full. They’re a lot like us— they love to get up the floor and run. We’re the Runnin’ Rebels and they’re the Runnin’ Jackets.”

Layne said he hopes the team finds more balance in scoring this time around, though proud of Will’s 41-point heroics last time out.

“For us, we’re typically more versatile,” said Layne. “Hopefully we’ll have more balanced scoring this time.”

The Runnin’ Rebels tip off against T.L. Hanna at 7 p.m. on Feb. 20. The winner will move to the Class 5-A upper state championship in Florence on Feb. 23 at 4 p.m.

lift Greer to win over Greenville

BY TREY STEWART

BY TREY STEWART SPORTS EDITORSPORTS EDITOR

‘After I made the

So far, soIsaiah goodHenry for the and Green- move to Greer, the Runnin’ Rebels. ville have some history.

Byrnes took Rock time at second I got here, I Duringout Henry’s Hill and J.L. FortMann, Mill in he the never beat Red Raiders.

Zero wins wanted Greenville.’ first andthe second rounds and three losses. of the Class 5-A playoffs, Henry’s first time respectively, to advance to watchIsaiah Henry ing his new team, the upper state semifinals. Greer, play we was in the second Greer High guard “I thought defended of last year’s Class really wellround in both games,” PHOTO | KWAI COOK 4-A head playoffs.

The Jacksaid Byrnes coach ets’ opponent?

Greenville.

Layne Fowler. “We strugGreer lost a heartbreaker gled a little more offen- Byrnes won its first two playoff games - against Rock Hill ball before softly floating then to the Red Raiders to and Fort Mill - by an average of 35 points. sively against Fort Mill. the ball off the glass and end its 2022-23 season.

We just weren’t crisp as From as the moment Hen- in over two Greenville dewe had been.

Buttowe still he said, 93-46fenders. over Rock Hill. Runnin’ Rebels won both ry came Greer, found a way.”

66-43 Thesoundgames by an average of 35 TheFort finalMill. buzzer he wanted another shot at over

trey@greercitizen.com | 877-2076

Greenville. He got it, and ed just as the ball cleared the net. he didn’t waste it.

“I could tell they were Henry’s steal with five seconds remaining and going to try to pass it to buzzer-beating layup gave [Cooley]. I was just being Greer (15-3) a 59-57 win patient and waiting for the at Greenville (10-3) — the right time to step up and Jackets’ first win over the try and get it,” said Henry.

“When the time came, I atRed Raiders since 2020.

“I feel like we really tacked the pass and took needed this win as a team,” it. The rest, that was just TREY STEWART | THE GREER CITIZEN said Henry. “Every one of greatness.”

Greer head coach Devin us wanted to come in here and finally beat Greenville, Liferidge passed on the Isaiah Henry had arguably his best game since becoming a Greer Yellow Jacket, piling in chance to call a timeout af- 15 points against Greenville including the game-winning layup as the buzzer sounded. and we got it done.”

Especially on a day like andatRiverside fellmade to PickBY TREY STEWART ter Henry the steal.

With the score tied today.” ens in the round SPORTS EDITOR57 and Greenville mainHe same trusted theby junior It was 30 points.

Henry put up 15 points feltthe likeperfect we werebirthgoing to saw that there were five guard to make a play. taining possession, Henry “They beat us last year, For Madison Garrido, reget the for ballGarrido. again. So I told seconds on the clock, and for the game, second on “It’s funny, becauseday I present stepped in front of a pass She the wasteam eclipsed so we told wanted to come venge is aintended dish bestto served that in if scorwe got it I was like ‘Oh yeah, I can the team only to Amare the guys in the hudplay Greenagain,bywesophomore would just go beat that,’” said Henry. Anderson’s 20. ingI only dletry before back and to getthat ourplay re- that ville forward Roman Coolcold.

Henry’s move to Greer with it.

We weren’t [Greenville] into occasion, the post. Henry shooting guard Kyndalstop- “Coach told us he wasn’t venge,” thought said Garrido.

“We would And oney this going to call a timeout, so this season, he said, made ping.” end upthis turning the really right wanted Haroski, who became Rivwin.” the ball perhaps coasted with a down side of “I got the steal and I I just ran with it.” over,” said Liferidge.

“We side of the court with the SEE GREER | B3 After the game, Riv- erside’s all-time leading birthday cake.

THE PERFECT BIRTHDAY PRESENT

Garrido, Riverside dim Blue Flame to advance

On Garrido’s 17th birthday and in front of an energetic Riverside crowd, the junior point guard led her Lady Warriors to a 6356 win over Pickens in the second round of the Class 4-A playoffs. She scored 16 points in the victory.

A stark difference from last season, where Garrido

erside fans and friends sang ‘Happy Birthday’ to Garrido as she walked off the court. She blushed, smiled, and waved.

“That was such a great feeling,” said Garrido. “So many of my friends and family members were out here watching me tonight, and it means the world.

scorer last week. Haroski had 24 points.

“Ever since I found out we’d play Pickens again, I’ve been mentally preparing myself,” said Haroski.

“I knew we were going to win. We were not going to take another loss to them like last year.”

SEE WARRIORS | B5

‘I’M GOING TO MAKE GREER GREAT AGAIN’

Amare Anderson’s love for the city that loves him back

B

‘That was just greatness’

Advances to third round

my father used to be a pastor.

Members of my dad’s church were atypical in the eyes of many. Trade in jackets for jeans and B4 THE GREER CITIZEN SPORTS WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2024 tailored suits for t-shirts, and that’s what you’d find at Impact Church.

My father has always had a way with communicating his thoughts to other people. He’ll be the first to admit, however, that his tone was often more fiery than his message required.

It felt like fire and brimstone every other week with my father. But he never tiptoed around averaged over 22 points

BY TREY STEWART truth. Our blue-collar, per game and was named SPORTS EDITOR island of misfit Christians Region 4A-2 Player of the Year. He led Greer to a into the Old School congregationStep didn’t mind 21-6 record, its best mark Barber Shop on any day of it one bit. They loved it. of day. in 13 years. the week, any time Their season, however, It doesn’t matter.

I remember a select was cut short by GreenJust make sure you’re few of his best sermons, ville in the second round ready to talk sports when but one willyoualways stick of the playoffs. get there.

It was on to his junior From 7This a.m. to 7 p.m. — out in my mind. season. sun up to sundown — the one wasn’t topic too intense, of discussion stays same.

Sports, from JOB’S NOT FINISHED either—justthefull of facts. the pros down to the high After seemingly every After theschool worship band leagues, is king of shot Amare made, he let conversation among the out a roar or flexed his finished playing one Sunbarbers and the shop’s arms. Whenever his teamday, my dad walked up on patrons. Hanging from the mates scored or made a the stage. He flipped on walls are pictures of past big play, Amare was the local star athletes. first to dap them up and his lapel microphone but For much of Amare Anshow them love. said not a word.

It meant everything to derson’s young life, that him. little he barber shop — locatIn his hand, carried Greer’s 59-57 downed off East Wade Hampton three unopened bottles to-the-wire win over in the deep, vintage Greer Greenville on Saturday full of liquid.

Hehome. set them — was represented a payoff for Before stage Anderson bedown on a came small Amare’s loyalty. Three the face of Greer front table.basketball, shooting the times he led his Jackets against Greenville the net off the rim every week, One at a time. season prior, three times he’d shoot the breeze with On the right side of Old theSchool they fell short — including the guys at The their 64-58 playoff loss to Barber Shop. table, he placed a bottle the Red Raiders.

Amare’s uncle, Nige Raof water. mage, Not this time. With 20 cut his hair every In the middle—a bottle points, Amare helped lead month. He still does.

Greer to its first win over His late grandfather, of Code Red Mountain Greenville since 2020. The Clarence Moody, used to Dew. Jackets improved to 15-3 hang out at the barber on the season, on pace to shopleft every day before And on the side of goTREY STEWART | THE GREER CITIZEN eclipse last year’s stellar ing to work. Moody passed the table, my father—in record. in 2018.

His picture hangs “We were able to fight on the walls, too.the his incredible love for Despite pleas to play at other schools, Amare followed his heart and stayed home, vowing to ‘make Greer great again.’ through adversity and “That was just my place ridiculous—plopped down finally get one against growing up,” said Amare. a 40-ounce bottle of Colt them,” said Amare. “Some “Those guys at that bar- 7-17 record. They were cent Anderson. “People heads went down at some bershop, they know all dead last in their region, were telling him to go else45 Malt Liquor. points during the game, about every player in ev- not sniffing the playoffs. where. But that was never The congregation but nobody kept them ery sport at was every level,” Greer was a far cry from going to be him. One thing down. I love seeing that.” about Amare is that he’s said Twanzette Anderson, the program it used to be. visibly confused.

But once ARMCHAIR “Amare is one of my The barber shop patrons the most loyal person I Amare’s mother. “That’s the shock effect subsided, all-time favorites, one of allREPORTER they talk about. That’s weren’t shy in giving Ama- know.” my father somehow the most talented guys Amare made a declare their opinions. all you get.” tied I’ve ever coached,” said ration in the barbershop A junior at Greer now, “Some of them were tellthose threeAmare drinks—inLiferidge. “He’s a leader remembers a con- ing me I needed to go to that day that he still carcluding theversation Colt 45—into for us. And the crazy thing with his uncle a different school,” said ries with him. Despite TREY is that he’s still figuring other barbers a fantastic and sermon about at the Amare. “They told me that being pushed by many to things out. His ceiling is shop following his fresh- Greer wasn’t the place I take his talents elsewhere, STEWART discernment in basketball what we season. needed to be if I wanted to he shut them all down. just that high.” man After the game, one “My whole life is here consume inAmare this had life.just finished a be successful. They said I might have assumed Amin Greer. I’ve got so much successful campaign with needed to leave.”

He used music to drive “Amare had a lot of family in Greer. This is my the Yellow Jackets, startare stayed out late celhome his point. ing almost every game in schools pulling on him to home,” said Amare. ebrating the milestone “I told them that day leave Greer and come over first year win. Most 16-year-old kids The malt his liquor, heon varsity.

As a team, however, somewhere else instead,” that I’m not going anyprobably would have. It explained, could be rep-with a said Amare’s father, Vin- where. I’m going to make Greer finished was a Saturday night, after Greer great again.” all. resented by the vulgar, Not Amare. He had to be profanity-laden hip-hop up early for church in the ‘KEEP IT UP, YOUNGBLOOD’ morning.

Amare’s parents never and hard rock songs of ever insert yourself “He’s home by 11 o’clock had to wonder where he the day. more we lisinto The the story. almost every night,” said was.

PHOTO | SUBMITTED Vincent. “After a big win ten to It’s music morals, “As a young boy… rain, onesans of the goldlike that, he might go eat sleet, snow on the ground, the higher we takeI of en rules of risk journalism. cold, hot as ever, dark out- As a kid, Amare spent much of his time playing basketball. with his teammates, but drifting into that don’t find that onelifestyle. hard side, it didn’t matter,” his No matter the weather, he was in the backyard practicing. that’s it.”

“If I’m being honest, mom said. “Amare was alMountain Dew, he toThe follow. ways in the backyard play- time at age 3, Amare de- wasn’t going to actually I’m sort of a homebody However, spoke this week, for continued, for secuing ball. And we never ever cided to give both sports get in any of the games,” anyways,” said Amare. “I themusic first time, felt likeneclar that Iwasn’t said Amare. “That feel- don’t always like being a shot. bothered him.”

Amare played baseball ing did something to me. around a lot of people. I At first, it was just Amthe story, in a way, roped essarily filthy, but at the are shooting by himself. and basketball while also I worked my butt off that like being to myself. When me into it. didn’t point us same time, But eventually, other kids singing on Sundays at his seventh-grade summer. I a lot of people are around, I was Christ. at the Byrnes vs. wasn’t about to go down sometimes it gets to be from the community ven- church. toward It wouldn’t too much for me.”

His dad is a pastor at like that.” tured to the Anderson’s T.L. Hanna basketball necessarily harm us in Plus, the job’s not finAmare put the work in, backyard to play basket- Aiken Chapel Memorial game Thursday The Baptist Church in Tay- and one year later, he was ished, Amare says, quotball with Amare. immediacy, but night. over time, atmosphere was electric, Sometimes, even older lors. His mom sings at the named the middle school ing the famous line from we’d grow so custom to members of the communi- church and is a gospel re- team MVP as an eighth the legendary Kobe Bryas the Rebels and Jackets the flavor that we’d have grader. ty would drive by to offer cording artist. ant. He’ll celebrate later. are two of the top teams “After my eighth-grade There’s still a lot more encouragement.

Amare’s shy to show less desire the water. in Class 5-Afor basketball.

“Keep it up, youngblood, off his singing voice these year, that’s when I knew I work left to do.

And the was water.

The wakeep it up!” they’d yell out days, but he’s still got it, could do something with And back at The Old The game a potential this,” said Amare. “People School Barbershop, well, their car windows. his parents say. ter was Christian preview of a deep music, playThey saw Amare’s dedi“Oh trust me, he can started talking about me it’s Amare they’re talking TREY STEWART | THE GREER CITIZEN songs that pointed us off matchup later this still sing,” said Twanzette. a little bit more. My name about now. cation. toward the Creator and “We brag about him all His first sport was base- “There are some videos started getting out there.”

February.

Amare’s late grandfather, Clarence ‘Sonny’ Moody, is ball, but after picking up out there somewhere and One of the people whose the time,” said Poley Gregfilled our point hearts withonthe Byrnes guard immortalized the walls of the Old School Barber Shop. a basketball for the first you can see for yourself.” name Amare reached? ory, one of the shop’s three spirit instead of things Will Fowler came into of “It’s true. I was leading First-year Greer basket- barbers. “‘He’s tough.’ worship sometimes in the ball head coach Devin ‘He’s hard to guard.’ ‘Man, this world.like a man on the game main service at church,” Liferidge. Liferidge had did you see Amare throw a Now, mission.

He he scored could have said Amare, laughing. “Up just come over from White it down last night?’ Stuff nearly halfthat of the Rebels’ until I was about 10 or 11. Knoll and sought pieces to like that. We all want to explained concept I can still sing, but I don’t help build a foundation at see Amare make it.”

85 points, dropping a without bringing a bottle do it much anymore.”

Greer.

One day, Amare hopes career-high as pulpit?

Byrnes of Colt 45 to41the Balancing singing, Amare intrigued him. his picture will be hanging rolled to aBut statement swinging, and shooting “When I first saw Am- on those barbershop walls Probably. would I85proved to be a lot. are as an eighth-grader, I — right next to the stars of 78 win over T.L. Hanna. have remembered it if he Amare fell fully in love looked at one of my coach- Greer’s past.

I stood underneath with basketball at age 7 es and said ‘This kid could Right next to his late didn’t?

Probably not. the basket for most of the and decided to give up play varsity right now,’” grandfather.

The message is always baseball a short time later. said Liferidge. “We tried For now, he has a promgame with my camera, That decision would soon to get him to play, but I ise to keep. more important than mouth agape in awe of pay off. don’t think it was the right “I know what I said and the in which the method masterclass Fowlerit’s time.”

I meant it. I’m going to presented.

With input from his par- make Greer great again,” MAKING A NAME put on. Every shot he took It wasn’t until the ents, Amare decided to Amare said. “There are a And honestly, these was going in. summer after his sev- wait it out before playing lot of people behind me, past few have done One of weeks the cool things people who really want enth-grade season that on the varsity team.

“I think that was the me to do this. It’s not just Amare pushed the pedal aabout number on myGymnasisoul. My Schofield down on his basketball right decision for him,” me. That’s what keeps me dad’s popped into um atsermon Byrnes is that it has said Vincent. “He ended going. dreams. my head the other day a regular scoreboard that “We’re far from great “During my sev- up being the second-leadenth-grade year I made ing scorer on the varsity yet, but we’re rolling in the keepsI track of the game while was stressed and TREY STEWART | THE GREER CITIZEN the middle school team, team during his freshman right path. It feels good score, then, on either driving to work. knowing I’m leaning on but I was one of the kids year.” side of the scoreboard, what I said.” on the team who knew I As a sophomore, Amare Amare still goes the Old School Barber Shop to get haircuts from his uncle, Nige Ramage.

I looked at my Spotify. separate scoreboards Ittwo was shuffling through show player totals Travis Scott’spoint newest during the game. album—one of my favorToward the end of ites. the contest, Will Fowler I turned on my Chrislooked up at his point tian music playlist intally on the scoreboard. stead. youup know, He sawWouldn’t that he was to my stress went down 37 for the level evening. a little It wasbit. clear that Fowler Amazing a little was feeling what himself and water for you. ridingwill the do excitement

‘You want 40?’

N

Eagles fly past Lions behind 30 Enjoyed following along just like I was there! Thorough writing, made mepoints feel like I was from Raypart of the action.

PRESTON BURCH | THE GREER CITIZEN

Madison Garrido had a birthday to remember, putting up 16 points in the Lady Warriors’ 63-56 win over Pickens.

Kelley adds

there and perform.’”

Ray came out of the locker room determined.

He contrasted his six-

of the game, adrenaline coursing through his veins with each made shot and foul committed by the Jackets.

Fowler walked over to me underneath the basket

SPORTS BEAT REPORTING

ALL DAILY DIVISION

THIRD PLACE David Cloninger The Post and Courier

SECOND PLACE David Cloninger The Post and Courier

SPORTS BEAT REPORTING

ALL DAILY DIVISION

FIRST PLACE

Jordan Kaye The State

The Cockaboose story is the strongest of this bunch, and was fun to read. The art made the story pop. Well done.

NEWS HEADLINE WRITING

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

THIRD PLACE ®

Wednesday, August 14, 2024

$3.00

®

WEATHER

County gives updates about flooding, current conditions

Brandon Roberts The Summerville Journal Scene

BY BRANDON ROBERTS broberts@journalscene.com

LITICS

Dorchester County hosted a press conference on Sunday, Aug. 11, at the Wednesday, May 1, 2024 Emergency Operations Center to provide updates about the current flooding and the conditions across Dorchester County in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Debby.

Officials said the flooding situation in Dorchester County is dire, with where we patrol and the methodol-road closures, indoor flooding and ogy behind that. I want to ensure thatschool reopening plans underway. we keep violent offenders off ourDorchester County Emergency Manstreets, and that’s done in cooperation and collaboration with the so-agement Director Thomas McNeal, licitor’s office, our legislative delega-Chief Deputy Sheriff Sam Richard-

® son, Dorchester County Council Chair Todd Friddle, Dorchester County Fire Rescue Chief Tres Atkinson, Dorchester School District Two Superintendent Dr. Shane Robbins $3.00 and Dorchester School District Four Superintendent Jeff Beckwith provide information as Dorchester County continues to monitor and respond to flooding.

“As many of you are aware, Tropical Storm Debby is significantly impacting Dorchester County,” McNeal said.

“The storm has caused widespread flooding, particularly along our rivers. The Ashley River has risen to 25.31 feet, and the Edisto River

Candidates spar over strengths, strategies

RANDON ROBERTS erts@journalscene.com

publ ic a n c a nd id ates for hester County Sheriff Sam ardson and Mike Turner parated in a debate Thursday, April t the Klauber Building in St. ge. sted by the Dorchester County blican Party and The Journal e, the candidates discussed their orms and goals, emphasizing the ortance of building trust ben the community and deputies ugh community policing. Canes also highlighted the need for substations and deputies in the ty to ensure timely response to for service. hardson is a current chief depwith the Dorchester County

TERTAINMENT

Sheriff’s Office and a retired officer in the U.S. Army. As a married father of two, he said he prioritizes his beliefs in God, family and the values that shape his character.

“The sheriff is responsible for your quality of life,” Richardson said. “He is responsible for ensuring that your homes are safe at night.”

Richardson said he is pro-Second Amendment and wants to modernize the sheriff’s office technology and improve patrol methods in Dorchester County.

“Modernizing our technology helps in intelligence gathering and increases our ability to perform adequate and above-standard things with patrol, our criminal investigations and with a civil process,” he said. “I want to change the construct of our patrol units, how we patrol,

tion, our county government and our schools.”

Turner, who has run for Dorchester County Sheriff several times in the past, said during his opening remarks that he is a constitutional con-EDUCATION servative and has been a Republican his entire adult life. He graduated from Summerville High School and The Citadel, where he earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in busiBRANDON ROBERTS/JOURNAL SCENE ness administration.

Turner is a graduate of the FBI Na- Republican candidates for Dorchester County Sheriff Sam Richardtional Academy and has been in law son, left, and Mike Turner, right, take questions Thursday, April 18, during a debate sponsored by the Dorchester County Republican Party and The Journal Scene. The event took place at the Klauber Please see SPAR, A7 Building in St. George.

DDTwo delays first day of school until Aug. 14 COMMUNITY

Wednesday, November 29, 2023

BY BRANDON ROBERTS

broberts@journalscene.com reached 17.21 feet overnight. These levels are well above normal and conThe Leadership Dorchester tinue to pose a serious risk to our comClass of 2023 has successfully completed the Huger munities, and even currently, we’re Park revitalization project. under the risk of torrential downThe culmination of months pours associated with some thunderof work will be celebrated storms that are moving into the area.” with a ribbon-cutting cereMcNeal said Dorchester County mony at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 29, at Huger Park, Emergency Management is coordi615 W. Richardson Ave. in nating efforts across all departments Summerville. to ensure the safety and well-being of The Huger Park renovation residents and closely monitoring the includes a host of enhanceriver levels, which are expected to rements aimed at transforming SUBMITTED PHOTO the park into a cherished main high into the middle of this community space.

Thejust com-past the Old Trolley Road inDorchester Road headed north week. prehensive project involved tersection across from Money Man Pawn Shop has been a probthe complete replacement of lem area for flooding in equipment the aftermath Please see COUNTY, A3 playground and of Tropical Storm Debby. fencing, the addition of a rain garden, the installation of signage compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the creation of a legacy brick platform, and the establishment of a memorial honoring the late town of Summerville Planner, Joe Christie.

“The Summerville Parks Foundation, Leadership Dorchester and the town of Summerville, along with many project sponsors and invested residents, worked

SUBMITTED PHOTO

The Huger Park renovation includes a host of enhancements aimed at transforming the park into a cherished community space. The comprehensive project involved the complete replacement of playground equipment and fencing, the addition of a rain garden, the installation of signage compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the creation of a legacy brick platform and the establishment of a memorial honoring the late town of Summerville Planner, Joe Christie.

Rising from the ashes

together to renovate this charming park,” said Amy Evans, director of the parks and recreation department for the town of Summerville.

“When the community collaborates together, we are

Sniffing out the problem

BY BRANDON ROBERTS broberts@journalscene.com

Flooding is still a problem in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Debby, which made landfall in South Carolina twice this past week, and the start of the 2024-25 school BRANDON School ROBERTS year for BY Dorchester broberts@journalscene.com District Two has been delayed. A sudden increase in a water bill is not unordinary. It often does not date raise any The original start wasred flags, but it is noticed when it to aAug. nonprofit. this pasthappens Monday, 12. It When Jana Riley, executive director of the Public Works was laterArt moved toSummerville, Tuesday, received the building’s monthCenter in Aug. 13,lyand, time, waterat billpress this past December, she immediately noticed something needed addressing. was again moved to Wednesknew there had to be a leak,” Riley said. “We got a day, Aug.“I14. water bill for over $300; typically, our water bill is around According to a press re$50 monthly.

The Summerville Commissioners of Public Staff report lease from DDTwo Works (CPW)this officepast also called us in January to tell us noticed unusually high water usage in our space. We Sunday,they while the Ashley Dorchester County Govare Edisto in the former water River and River arecompany building but aren’t afernment launched the Comfiliated with them.” not rising, rain in the foreplete Streets survey, an iniRiley said plumbers were called in because there were no cast andvisible three significant tiative to enhance commuleaks in the building and no soft ground outside. nity involvement in shaping road closures will create “The plumbers workedafor an entire day, maybe even two the future of the county’s days,for just turning off valves, trying to isolate the leak, lookchallenge large-scale transportation policies. This ing at the water meter,the seeing if it was still spinning; it was BRANDON ROBERTS/JOURNAL SCENE transportation within sur vey invites residents, just quickly pouring out from somewhere,” Riley said. “It at 201 Miles Jamison Road in Summerville celebrated the grand-opening its new building Wednesday, school district. businesses andof stakeholders was clear that there was a definite leak,Archway but we justAcademy could July 31, 16 months after the previous building was destroyed by fire. Pictured, from left, areparticipate Archway Academy Program Coor“We understand not all to actively in not find it.” crafting safer, more acces- President Tami Nix, The building has a groundwater pump because dinator John itMichael Nix, center director Kathleen Howell, Edward Tupper, of Tupco, Archway Academy parts of our school also district has athe basement. pump pump water from sibleRita streets for all.

Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Berry, Chris Homer, of Tupco, and Miare affected same,The but we is designed toGreater the ground into the street. Riley said the pump worked so The Complete Streets apchael Wood, of Asset Integration and chair of the chamber of commerce board. must plan for worst-case scehard that it broke and overflowed. proach advocates for the denarios keeping a pouring into the ground some“We knewsafety there wasas water sign of streets that can acwhere, but we couldn’t find where it was,” she said. “The priority,” according to the commodate all modes of plumbers couldn’t figure it out, either.” transportation by promoting press release from DDTwo Then, help arrived from the unlikeliest of sources: a ressafety and accessibility for Public Information Officer cue dog named Agua Fuga. everyone.

BY BRANDON ROBERTS Archway Academy began in Sumter in 1985.

Jennifer Passmore.

“We unAgua Fuga, Spanish for “water leak,” is a 4-year-old LabBy participating in this Retriever/Chow Chow mix whobroberts@journalscene.com works with BerkeAlmost twenty years later, the center openedsurvey, its derstandrador the frustration and people can contribley County andon Sanitation (BCWS). She was dofirst of five locations in the Summerville area. challenges this Water places ute to developing transpornated to Berkeley County in October 2020. She has been tation policies that ref lect It has been 16 months since the Archway “Summerville has been a very wonderful, family schedules.

We will trained to help BCWS staff detect water leaks in service the community’s diverse Academy at 201 Miles Jamison Road in precious home for us, and we are we feel very continuelines to stay engaged and and water mains. needs.

Summerville make decisions quickly Agua Fugaastrained with Lowcountry Dog Training towas destroyed by fire. On welcome here,” Nix said. “It’s family to us, and The survey closes Friday, learn detect water leaks, mainly by following the smell Wednesday, July 31, employees, commu- we hope you feel the same way about Archway. and safely astopossible.”

Dec. 15.

SUBMITTED PHOTO of chlorine.

Since the training, she has detected several nity leaders and other supporters joined the What a beautiful experience.”

DDTwo Superintendent Visit w w w.dorchesterAgua Fuga is the Berkeley County Water and Sanitation department’s service line leaks across Berkeley County and neighboring countysc.gov/government/ Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Nix thanked Tupco for making the rebuildDr. Shane Robbins, at a press leak-detection dog. She was recently used to find a leak at the Public pla n n i ng- de velopment / Chamber of Commerce at a ribbon-cutting ing process “great” and “painless.” conference this Sunday, Please see past PROBLEM, A3 Works Art Center in Summerville. complete-streets-workshops ceremony celebrating the opening of the “They took care of everything,” she said. said delaying the start of to access the survey. early childhood development center’s new “They are the best. You know, you can’t build school makes sense when it building. a building without some hiccups. I can’t say is put in perspective.

“It’s been a very interesting year,” said Arch- there weren’t any, but they are top-notch.”

“For us, it’s 27,000 students GOVERNMENT BRANDON ROBERTS/JOURNAL SCENE way Academy President Tami Nix. “For our Nix also thanked her son, John Michael Nix, that’ll hit those roads when families that will be returning and our new and the center’s director, Kathleen Howell, say- Archway Academy Tami Nix, center, we start school. It’s 4,000 families here at Archway Academy, we pride ing the two were integral in the rebuilding pro- speaks at the grand-opening of the earemployees, and with those ly childhood development center’sVirginia, new ourselves in caring for the youngest people, cess. She also praised the Greater Summerville/ students, it could be anyBY BRANDON ROBERTS pital in Richmond, and, before three years building Wednesday, July 31,that, at 201 the people we can’t replace. The most impor- Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce.broberts@journalscene.com where from 30,000 to 50,000 and legislative exSummerville.

Also tant part of our community is our future. We “They’re a wonderful, beautiful group of Miles Jamison Roadofinpolicy parents on the roads,” he Stephen Chandler is the perience in Washington, pictured are Archway Academy Program take that responsibility very seriously, and I people, and they have always supported us, said at the press conference. new CEO at Summerville D.C. Coordinator John Michael Nix, left,Medica and l pray that a county of 178,000

BY MATT BISE erning and growth during an unprec- “In things, but it’s important that wepeoman- dialoguehope with and businesses and this let building will serve so and we appreciate it and appreciate being part Medical Center.

“Summer v ille mbise@berkeleyind.com edented time for local leadership. age growth a way that impacts our them know we more would children love to seein the future.” center right. many of your community,” she said. ple, that’sinhow many folks Chandler hasdirector more thanKathleen 10 CenterHowell, has a proud past of “The Lowcountry has a growing that city in theaffect. least way possible.” years of healthcare adminis- providing extraordinary care we We want to do them. I hope we create an environLocal mayors met Thursday, April population, and we have a lot of power Goose Creek’s population has ex- ment that provides our citizens with tration experience, including to our community for the our part by keeping t he 25, at Charleston Southern University if we work together,” said Thomas ploded recently. It is now the eighth- opportunities to live and work closer his recent role as chief oper- past 30 years. If you live in that Habib the to Summerville. They don’t have to for a forum organized by the Berkeley Hamilton, who is in his first year as roadways largest city insafe South so Carolina. ating officer at HCA Health- this community, this is your workers can County Chamber of Commerce. The mayor of Moncks Corner. “We need to emergency also said city leaders have spent thedo past hop on the interstate and in traffic if care’s Henrico Doctors’ Hos- hospital. Whether celebratChamber invited mayors from the mu- go after road funding and homeless- their two years zoning codes jobsrewriting to get things opento they have opportunities.” ing new life or caring for nicipalities in Berkeley County to share ness funding. There are things out and help manage a smart growth plan.

Another city represented was HaCOMMUNITY those with life-threatening back to normal as soon updates about plans for these areas. there where we can work together to Habib also said city leaders have nahan, which, because of its location, illness or injury, we proudly asspent possible.”

The mayors gave a brief forecast for make it better for all of us.” the past two years rewriting zon- deals with its own particular set of care for each patient no matT hcodes e c utor help r e ntmanage pl a na smart for problems. Mayor Christie Rainwater their communities, reflected on recent The business community at the event ing ter the circumstance,” Chan-

Berkeley leak-detection dog helps area nonprofit

SUBMITTED PHOTO

n Baker “Honeysuckriter and lead actor.

aker orking on ew movie

RANDON ROBERTS erts@journalscene.com

C Entertainment, a buring name in the film iny, proudly announces its venture, “Honeysuckle,” ma film written by Sumille resident and Berkeley nty native William Brian r and directed by Alan Starring Baker alongside ward-winning ensemble the production marks a ficant milestone for the h Carolina-based com-

Baker, who attended Stratford H i g h School, was the lead actor and executive producer of his f irst indeneysuck- p e n d e n t writer and m o v i e , actor Bri- “ G i v e s , ” which was aker. released i n

have always been interin vampire stories, but I wanted something that e sense to the modern d,” Baker said. “A lot of s, we have vampire movat are just action-packed stories, like Twilight for ern times. I wanted ething more of a drama d on the person rather the vampire, a person happened to become a pire.” ncipal photography on ilm began in April and ne y suc k le” u n fold s nst the backdrop of leston and Myrtle Beach, mising captivating visuals n immersive experience udiences. ts core, “Honeysuckle”

able to accomplish so much more than any one of these organizations could have done independently. The final product is something we can all be proud to offer to the greater Summerville area.”

Funding for this undertaking was made possible by the efforts of the Leadership Dorchester Class of 2023, which raised more than $50,000 for the project from Legacy Brick sales and other

City leaders discuss plans at Chamber forum

fundraising efforts such as in-kind contributions from community partners, including Home Depot, Heritage Landscaping, Spartan Soft Washing, Mr. Sign and the Summerville Career Center Mechatronics Program. The Summerville Parks Foundation secured $100,000 from the town of Summerville earmarked for complete equipment replacement.

Students from the Summerville Career Center Mechatronics Program, in collaboration with Leadership Dorchester, gained realworld experience by contributing engraved bricks for the legacy platform. The collaboration with local vendors, contractors, volunteers and the class members ensured the project stayed on schedule. The revitalization efforts included site work such as grading, leveling, landscaping, engineered mulch installation, gutter addition, pavilion painting and the refurbishment of existing memorial benches and plaques.

“Summerville Park Foundation is grateful for the extraordinary work done by Leadership Dorchester, Summerville Parks and Recre-

ation, and everyone that supported this project,” said Steven Doniger, board chair of the Summerville Parks Foundation. “Parks and playgrounds help to provide a special place for families and a sense of community pride, and this project hopefully will be the inspiration for future opportunities.”

Evans told the Summerville Evening Rotary Club about Leadership Dorchester’s and t he Su m mer v i l le Pa rk s Foundation’s desire to address storm runoff from the park’s pavilion with the installation of a rain garden, but its inability to extend their scope of work to include the additional project, and the Summerville Evening Rotary Club committed to fund and install the rain garden.

The rain garden’s capture of runoff while providing a site for plants to grow and the ability to naturally filter pollutants from groundwater it provides, as well as the club’s determination to populate the rain garden solely with native plants that attract and provide food, protection and Please see LEADERSHIP, A3

Say, ‘Cheese’

Complete Streets survey available online

Archway Academy opens new building 16 months after fire

Area mayors face similar challenges

$3.00

Leadership Dorchester to unveil renovated Huger Park

C

hester, the Dorchester District 2 gun-detection K-9, will be featured in at least two school yearbooks.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

Chandler hired as CEO of Summerville Medical Center I a m impressed w it h ou r dedicated and highly skilled medical sta f f a nd colleagues Chandler a nd look forward to supporting them as we expa nd ser v ices a nd programs.”

Chandler joins Summerville Medical Center at a time of extensive growth and de-

and quality-driven leaders,” said Hugh C. Tappan, president of HCA Healthcare’s South Atlantic division. “I know he will instantly connect with his colleagues, our physicians and the Summerville community.”

Over the past decade, the hospital has invested more than $250 million in expansion, opening new facilities and elevating its services to meet the growing needs of the Lowcountry community, including: Breaking ground earlier

the hospital’s licensed bed count by 40% to 174 licensed beds.

Completed a $10.5 million surgical expansion for a total of nine operating rooms and expanded ambulatory care and post-anesthesia care units.

Completed a $24 million emergency department expansion, including a dedicated pediatric emergency department.

Completed a $61 million women’s, neonatal and surgical services expansion.

GYN practice Summerville Women’s Care – Brighton Park near Nexton; opened the Summerville Breast Center to provide comprehensive mammography and breast services; and opened Brighton Park Emergency, a freestanding emergency department near Nexton.

Chandler earned his master’s degree in business administration from Baylor University and his bachelor’s in political science from Louisiana State University.

He is joined by his wife, Han-

SECOND PLACE Andrew S. Brown The Lancaster News

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12 | FEATURE thedanielislandnews.com

The Daniel Island News ■ August 1 - 7, 2024

Caley Smith The Daniel Island News August 1 - 7, 2024 ■ The Daniel Island News

thedanielislandnews.com

daniel island nature notes FRANK CONWAY

COLLIDE The evolution of Credit One Stadium

PROVIDED BY CHRIS MEANY

An aerial view shows the Credit One Stadium undergoing renovations in 2021.

In 2022, the Credit One Stadium’s $42 million renovation expanded the stadium to 11,000 seats and added premier locker rooms, a Stage House lounge, training facilities, production and media space, catering amenities, a VIP rooftop restaurant, and an outdoor bar to the 771,000-squarefoot complex.

EMMA SLAVEN emma@thedanielislandnews.com

T

PETER FINGER PHOTOGRAPHY

Darius Rucker performs in the rain in 2017.

Rucker and Hootie and the Blowfish have played the Daniel Island venue multiple times.

(Left) Lee Brice engages with a fan while playing at the Credit One Stadium as part of the Folds of Honor Freedom Fest fundraiser that provides educational scholarships to the spouses and children of fallen or disabled military members and first responders.

here’s only one place in Charleston where locals can see champions like Serena Williams and musical stars like Kacey Musgraves and Luke Bryan grace the same stage.

Over the last 23 years, the Credit One Stadium on Daniel Island has evolved from a venue primarily known for women’s professional tennis into one of Charleston’s premier concert destinations. Initially built to host the Family Circle Cup, the stadium stands as a multi-functional entertainment space that welcomes both tennis enthusiasts and music lovers.

Bob Moran, longtime tournament director of the COCO, has seen the stadium’s transformation every step of the way. He explained how the venue has gone through its fair share of name changes.

“The Family Circle Cup was held on Hilton Head from 1973 to 2000. The Credit One Stadium was originally built in 2001 as part of a change of location for the Family Circle Cup,” he said. “It was purpose-built as a home for the professional women’s tennis event – a first of its kind.”

The Transformation Begins Since then, the stadium has been no stranger to epic tournaments and sold-out shows, but the idea to revolutionize the venue emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our new ownership group asked what it A Tennis Legacy Begins would take to transform the stadium into a The stadium was built in 2001, when the Fam- world-class tennis and music venue,” Moran ily Circle Cup, a women’s professional tennis said. “We then undertook the process of evaluattournament, relocated from Hilton Head Island ing all the needs.” This shift saw the stadium to Daniel Island. At the time, the facility featured not only enhance its facilities for tennis, but also clay tennis courts, hard courts, a clubhouse, a make significant upgrades to support large-scale grand lawn, walking and biking trails, a hospital- music events. ity grove, a pedestrian boardwalk and brick pla“The Credit One Stadium has actually been zas. This was long before the space was renamed used as a concert venue all the way back to 2002 to the Volvo Car Open, and now the present-day with acts like Don Henley and John Mayer, to Credit One Charleston Open (COCO). name a few,” Chris Meany, Credit One Stadi-

um’s general manager said. “We held the annual Hootie and the Blowfish back-to-school event for 15 years beginning in 2004. It was in 2013 that we decided to increase the bookings. This is when we kicked off our annual concert series.”

Concert-goers at Credit One Stadium have enjoyed performances from a variety of artists, including Counting Crows, Tyler Childers, and New Kids on the Block. But it was the stadium’s 2022 renovations that expanded its capacity and attracted even bigger names. That same year, the stadium also hosted the Credit One Charleston Open (COCO), the largest women’s-only tennis tournament in North America.

Major Renovations and Upgrades The $42 million renovation, completed in April 2022, which was primarily funded by Charleston Tennis owners Ben and Kelly Navarro, was a game-changer for the Credit One Stadium. The project took the stadium from being a 7,000-seat venue to one capable of hosting over 11,000 fans.

Key upgrades included the addition of a 75,000-square-foot, four-story Stage House building that supports up to 150,000 pounds of entertainment rigging. A new roof and 16 permanent suites transformed the facility into a top-tier venue for both tennis and music events.

“Adding the Stage House building, roof, and

Oct. 17 - 23, 2024 ■ The Daniel Island News

Island trees are going nuts for fall

Where tennis and music

PROVIDED BY CHRIS MEANY

FEATURE | 13

PETER FINGER PHOTOGRAPHY

Big and Rich entertain the crowd at the renovated Credit One Stadium.

August 15 - 21, 2024 ■ The Daniel Island News

PETER FINGER PHOTOGRAPHY

permanent suites were the largest changes,” Moran said. “In the past, we used temporary tents and structures to house all of our needs for both tennis and music. The suites are best in class and provide a hospitality option that we never had in the past.”

The 167,093-square-foot stadium renovations also included adding premier locker rooms, training facilities, production and media space, catering amenities, a VIP rooftop restaurant, and an outdoor bar.

Prior to the redesign, Meany said the stadium did not have dressing rooms for the artists and it was a difficult building to work in. Moran explained how the renovations created a shared

Sweet gum balls have hundreds of small seeds inside.

One need not walk very far right now to find oneself knee-deep in nuts. Daniel Island’s pecan, oak, hickory, sweet gum, cypress, and other tree varieties are, once again, May 30 – June 5, 2019, for this writer’s covering our yards, trails, sidewalks, and green spaces with their seeds. In some areas, unsavory experience eating acorns.)

And while some hickory nuts are edible, the acorns and their shells are so thick that it sounds like people are walking or riding over others are not. Please be sure of the identity of what is in your hand before you put it in thousands of potato chips as they pass by. your mouth. It is interesting to note that, This year appears to be a mast year. Mast | 09they are typically thought of separatewhile refers to the nuts, seeds,thedanielislandnews.com buds, etc. producedNEWS ly, the pecan tree is actually just one variety by trees and shrubs. Levels of mast production are cyclical, and every two to five years, of hickory.

Sweet gum balls and cypress balls, or for reasons still debated by arborists, biology cones, are sometimes used for decorations, professors, and foresters, there is a highly but they are not edible. They are commerproductive year. That is a mast year, and cially available at various internet craft sites.

2024 looks like a really robust one in our Each of them, however, does contain many area. a convenient, semi-separate space for live-in local mom group pages that offer nanny child care.” shares, tips, advice, and refer sitters small seeds that are consumed by birds and Many animals depend heavily on the nuts EMMA SLAVEN Grzyb saidSquirrels, their au pair, Carolina other Vil- wildlife. This writer carelessly forgot they may have used the past. and inseeds our trees produce. deer, Each April, the stadium Seekingsitters.com is another lamizar, was a great addition to their family about the hundreds of seeds in the prickly and many other creatures all rely on hosts the Credit One reliable sitebirds, that can help you in that it was similar to a big sister or cousin Charleston Open, the gum balls he had gathered for the atwhat’s dropping towho thewas ground this timeThey of hostedsweet a super helper. their au find part-time, long-term, largest women’s-only tached photos. They made quite a mess in the year. The squirrelspair canforeven be seen or last-minute babysitter two years, andscurrynow she’s transitennis tournament in help. Once on the site, to being international in of his truck when he pulled them out of back ing about, buryingtioned a portion of an their acorns student North America. you can babysitter Charleston and has of his pockets! forread future use. Some of the nuts areremained enjoyeda member profiles, do background their extended family.

Whether eating them, watching wildlife by people as well, and my family has eaten checks, read parent “I found our local high-schoolers are Upcoming them, or using them in decorative plenty delicious pecans babysitters from treesforright reviews, and of even see awesome after schoolenjoy hours,” Performances what here the budget is for crafts, the many varieties of nuts falling on on our island.Grzyb said.

Here is the rest of this year’s concert each sitter listed.nuts, like acorns “I’ve connected withvarietmost of our Daniel sitters Island this fall are worth noticing.

Other and several series at the because they are big sisters of our children’s Credit One Stadium: They are a critical food source for much of ies of hickory nuts, can also safely be eaten.

FAMILY AND friends or neighbors’ children, so it’s like an Lauren Daigle, Aug. 1 our wildlife, and they are the seeds from This doesn’t mean,extension however, that they FRIENDS of family.

Hightaste school students Stick Figure, Aug. 8 which good resident or that and one will enjoy (See “At Daniel Island are also funthem. companions and play with my the future trees in our yards, wooded Dan and Shay, Aug. 15 mother of two, Julie Trost, kids; they still have a playful spirit.

(The) and forests will come.

Jon Pardi, Sept. 7 areas, the root of it all,” The Daniel Island News,

Babysitter blues?

space that services both tennis and music. said. “We do our research to ensure we are not “For tennis, the building itself is used for all dampening our ability to sell tickets, and we player services, including dining, medical, locker pay attention to genres that are emerging and rooms, media and broadcast,” Moran said. “The performing well. building then transforms into a ‘back of house’ “When we are making offers to artists, we CALEY SMITH fixture for all music needs, greeneditor@thedanielislandnews.com rooms, dining, know that not every artist is going to sell out like production offices, tour and agent offices, and Post Malone and Noah Kahan,” Meany continchanging rooms. We were able to build a perued. to have In today’s day and age,“It’s it isnice “almost im-a facility that sounds and manent gym and expansive kitchen that services good one whether you have 6,000 or 11,000 possible” to survivefeels on solely income, both tennis and music functions.” patrons in the or so I have heard from family andstands.” friends, These facilities ensure that the stadium can but I am experiencing it firsthand. efficiently transition from hosting tennis tourna- Future Evolution The price of food and gas and clothing, ments, like the annual COCO in April, to conThe future of Credit One Stadium looks bright and, well, just about everything these days certs that run from late spring through fall. as it continues to host a mix of tennis and music can be astronomical. events, along with community-based activities But what about the cost of child care?

A Premier Concert Venue like the annual Christmas tree lighting, Skate the Putting diapers and formula, wipes and Thanks to the recent expansion, the music Stadium, and movie nights on the lawn. clothing aside, the cost of a child just to arena has been booming at the Credit One Sta“We’re always looking forward to new opbe “watched” is stifling. Not to mention dium. portunities,” Moran said. “Outside the stadium the waitlist times to get your child into a “The concert series has brought attendees itself, we’ve invested in other onsite properties daycare. who have never been to our tennis tournament,” to host various events.” These include a new So, I raise the question. How much does Meany said. “The addition of around 20 music deck and turf lawn area for community events an in-home babysitter cost? That is, once dates per year has impacted our revenues in a and a third-floor club in the Stage House for you find one you can trust to be in your huge way.” special events, parties, and weddings. shares that she is lucky enough andartists, take care ofMeany your little ones.this forward-looking sentiDaniel Island community truly supports the My Morning Jacket, The stadium has since hosted home big-time echoed featuring Nathaniel Rateliff and to have a family that lives nearby to ideal (that) ‘it takes a village.’” from Chris Stapleton and Elton John to Big Time ment. “In a perfect world, we would always The Night Sweats, Sept.watch 12 their children when needed. When WHAT PRELIMINARY Rush and Noah Kahan. have weekend events, but every venue feels the Dierks Bentley, Sept.

13 family is not available and she needs a QUESTIONS YOU Meany highlighted the meticulous planning SHOULD same way.

OurASK focus is to continue producing PROVIDED Cody Johnson and Friends, sitter, she turns to friends.

A BABYSITTER?the best WTA tennis event in the country and involved in booking artists.

Jake and Maggie Trost smile with their Sept. 21 “Whenever I’m having trouble How long have been caring for chil“We work with various promoters to bring a you provide our concert patrons “Grammy with a wideand range of Bruce andPost Malone, Oct. 9 Papa,” Brenda finding a sitter, friends have dren?Island,” he diverse selection of music to Daniel musical talent.”

Trost. always come to the rescue by Why do you want to babysit? suggesting one of theirs,” How many children are you comfortable Trost said. “I try to ask Daniel Island resident Brianna Norkett, caring for at a time? friends for feedback on mother of three, said her search for affordAre you OK with dogs? Cats? sitters, and for the most able care has been tough.

What is your availability? part, we’ve had great “We have found child care very hard to Do you have a reliable car? luck. I would also enfind, especially with having three young What is your cost?

The list could go on and on, but you don’t kids; it’s very expensive, so I’ve tried to use courage people to get to know their neighbors – high schoolers,” Norkett said. want to scare him or her off. Right? You there are so many kids of Finding a trustworthy babysitter in 2024 must tread lightly. babysitting age scattered can be a challenge. But thanks to today’s Once you get the obligatory checklist FRANK CONWAY all over the island.” technology, family and friends, au pair checked off, now what?

From left to right, pecans, sweet gum balls, hickory nuts, red oak acorns, and cypress cones.

Let’s invite the babysitter to your home to options, and other outlets, you can find AU PAIRS avenues to help make it easier. meet your family, see your place, and make Ashly Grzyb and family sure they are a good fit. Be sure to give your moved to Daniel Island from New children the “be good, we are meeting a new WHERE TO LOOK ONLINE York City in 2018, and they needed Care.com is a reliable website that you babysitter” spiel before she arrives to ensure can check out. Here they list qualified baby- child care almost immediately. the best behavior.

“The first year we moved to Daniel sitters who have gone through background If all boxes have been checked and the PROVIDED

Tips for finding and paying for child care

John Rich, half of the duo Big and Rich, performs at the renovated Credit One Stadium.

FRANK CONWAY

C hester C ount y ’s h ometown n ewspaper s inCe 1869

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A2 The News & RepoRTeR Wednesday, May 22, 2024

At age 95, Rev. Dills’ life has been anything but sour Celebrated 95th birthday recently

ISSUE 30 • 2 SEC TIONS, 14 PAGES

BY BRIAN GARNER

BGARNER@ONLINECHESTER.COM

There were several significant events in May of the year 1929 — the first Academy Awards were held.

The Oscar for best picture went to

BY BRIAN GARNER/THE N&R D.W. Griffith’s “Wings”. New York Yankee Lou Gehrig hit three con- Rev. Wayne Dills and Fort Lawn Mayor Carlton Martin share a laugh at the secutive home r uns against the Detroit Tigers; Yankees 11, Tigers Fort Lawn Community Center senior program lunch celebrating Rev. Dills’ 9. A cloudburst led to a stampede in Yankee Stadium, killing two. The 95th birthday. automatic electric ticker tape board thing in my life was being pastor of a was installed at the New York Stock church for 25 years, at Center Grove Exchange. TV began regular broad- Church in Waxhaw, N.C.,” Rev. Dills casts three nights a week. said.

And Rev. Wayne Dills was born in When World War II was raging in Gastonia, N.C.

BY BILL MARION/SPECIAL TO THE N&R Dills Europe and the Pacific, Wayne Dills celebrated turn was Easy as pie: Three aspects of theRev. pizza throwing skill his Siler95th Chapman demonstrated a teenager. at the Chester around the globe recently at the Fort “I was two years too young, but Rotary Club recently.

Lawn Community Center, among the I lost about four of my school budseniors he lunches with and his fami- dies; they were all killed overseas,” ly and friends. he said. Rev. Dills would himself The N&R sought to find out Rev. later serve in the National Guard for Dills’ secret to a long life, so we sat many years. down for a convo before lunch and Ask him what his secret to a long known“Trust to fansin the before his surprise honoring by the Siler life Chapman, and he answers, “Theand King of Fire”.

Town of For t Lawn (but more on asLord, serve Him.” Chapman has on and that later).

He said he is appeared in good health Network andpretty is a three“Living until 95 is a shock; I didn’t Food getting around well — he world pizza who take ever think I’d live to be this old. My time mentions that champion, his neighbors competed in competitions daddy died at age 67, my grandfa- has good care of him.

BY BRIAN GARNER York, L.A. and Hard to believe but in New ther at age 63.

I’ve been it, married At the lunch, Rev.Italy.

Dill was honBGARNER@ONLINECHESTER.COM twice “I started my first restausomeone throwing around a ored — both my wives have passed with a Proclamation

by Mayor Watching the guest speaker in Fort Mill, we are on,”combination he said. of flour, water rant Carlton Mar tin, and passed

by Town Wild Bees at the Chester Rotar y Club Rev. wife Chester Elizabeth, working Council, with naming May 14, to 2024 as andDills’ salt second held the brick and spot wasRotarians a former Mayor of Fortfor Lawn. was as easy as pie. The RotarRev.a Wayne Dills mortar Day in the Town of spellbound most get in Chester,” he said by way of say the most significant Fort Lawn. ians were really in the dough “Iofwould an hour. Easy to believe it

FIRST PLACE

Brian Garner The News & Reporter

Dough-etry in motion Pizza dough throwing expert shows Rotary how it’s done; pizza tossing fame means his restaurant is rolling in the dough

W E D N E S D A Y, M A Y 1 , 2 0 2 4 • $ 1

How the City spent ARPA funds

Bulk goes to premium pay, PHOTOS BY BRIAN GARNER/THE N&R recreation and police buildings, public works equipment

Community gardeners, from left, Columbus Pendergrass, John Walk and Charlie “Shag” Tillman are looking for some volunteers to bring the City of Chester Community Garden back to life.

Can you dig it?

BY TRAVIS JENKINS

TJENKINS@ONLINECHESTER.COM

Upgrades to law enforcement technology, work on the Chester Aquatic and Fitness Center, Gardeners arepublic works needs, employee looking for volunteers bonus pay and loans to pay toare bring the Chester bills among the expenCommunity Garden ditures made by the City of Chester with back to life federal American Rescue Plan Act

BY BRIAN (ARPA) funds.GARNER BGARNER@ONLINECHESTER.COM In March of 2021, the CityGardeners lear nedareitlooking would for volunteers to bring receive more than $2

million in federal relief funds, with then-City Administrator Stephanie Jackson reporting that the money came with fairly broad spending parameters. Ultimately, the City received two lump sum deposits of $1,338,453.

The News & Repor ter obtained details of how that money has been allocated through a Freedom of Information Act request.

SEE FUNDS/PAGE A2 the Chester Community Garden back to life A garden, if not tend- As seen in this recent photo, the Community Garden ed, gets overgrown and in Chester needs a little TLC to make it flourish once it takes the work of a again. good gardener or two to bring it back to life. en raised beds that were before,” said PenderThe garden needs to be installed in the garden grass said. “Wait until watered and fed, just a couple of years ago you see the after.”

Pendergrass got involved like the Chester Com- with some metal-sided munity Garden needs ones. And they are tend- with he community garden to be fed by the labor of ing the plants that yield when the late Theodore watermelons, tomatoes, Feaster, the City’s Farmers some volunteers. plums and potatoes that Market Manager, pulled A small but dedicatare starting to make an him into it. ed group consisting of appearance in the garHe says he keeps Columbus Pendergrass, den, said Pendergrass. fooling with the garMaster Gardener Char“We need to get some den because Theodore lie “Shag” Tillman and more volunteers out would want him to, and John Walk have been here,” Pendergrass said, because as a preacher, working in the Ches- “because the three of us he gains inspiration from ter Community

BY N&R STAFF Gar- can’t news the new do it releas,e all. working in the garden. den, T h e pulling C h e s weeds t e r P oand l i c e “We’ve page was eated on “There’s a lot of stobeen ‘cr getting grasstment and tending the more Depar is showing December ries in the Bible about support 14, from2023, the this Butsort they a plants. different of can’t policeCity com a f t e r than m u l t iplanting ple the seeds and ofe sChester do it alone and the need presence these days: onever unsuccessful to the harvest,” he before, andattempts that’s reaping somemedia. new blood and great social said.

— we havetobeen regain access our origisome new volunteers to working The three gardeners Conquering some unexnal pagethrough through the Facemake hurdles, the garden Depart- are working on the compected theflourChes-Parks bookand helpRec desk. ish again.

The payof f? ment munity garden, locatwith Rec Direc-Chief ter PD recently unveiled Chester Police Knowing you had a tor Dorrell Gregor y,” ed behind the Chester their new Facebook page. hand in bringing back Pendergrass said. He Agribusiness Center & SEE POLICE/PAGE A2 According to a CPD the beautiful garden. said councilmembers Farmers Market, ever y Oh, yeah, and you get and City Administra- T uesday from 9-11 if your pick of the vegeta- tor Malik Whitaker you’d like to join them, bles and fruits that are have also been sup- or contact the City of harvested, too.

Chester Parks & Rec portive.

Recently, the three “If you look at the Department at 803-899have replaced the wood- garden now, that’s the 0753 for more details.

A different kind of A14 Chester PD investigates fatal police presence shooting onChester OdomLibrary Street ...on social media A ‘bubbly’ personality: ‘Bubbleologist’ Langley at CCSO holds Prayerentertains Vigil for fallen LEOs Introducing the City of Chester Police at their latest meeting. (Insert when that someone is world- introduction.

SEE PIZZA/PAGE A7 class pizza dough thrower bad pizza pun here).

The News & RepoRTeR Wednesday, June 5, 2024

BY N&R STAFF

BY BRIAN GARNER

one individual laying on active investigation

Study, Go downefforts to create some A cube you say? Aren’t going The Chester Police thegeoground and study, anoth- study. with combined the rabbit hole that isthe bubmetric forms during my per- subject bubbles always spheres? Not Department is continuer male sitting between Chester ing their investigation bles,” formance, like a hexahedron, holding his leg.Langley EMS, said.

Police Depar tment always, Langley said.

You might say that the May I’ll Chester Sher-who andwant the bubble South CaroliFor those or aa shooting bubble on cube. also County Langley said his Soap Bub- into enthusiasm for Chester that left onerotating person bubble if f ’s Of fice SLED Langley na Law recomEnforcement funand at home, some ble Circus is more than just 17make County Librar y’s Summer dead and another juve- were called to assist. Division (SLED). sculptures, I’ll do a bubble mends a superior commercial good clean fun; there’s actu- nile reading program was “bubwith a minor injury. Both victims were trans“At this time, invesbubble formula, called Uncle and well some ally some educational value carousel bling over” during Monday’s The shooting tookputpor ted to Piedmont tigators are searchvapor inside of bubbles, to what he creates and per- place kickoff. If you might not say Friday at approxiMedical Bubble, Center. available One ingonline. for twoHe’s possible

BY BRIAN GARNER/THE N&R forms. (and that’s kinda what mately used thissuspects same formula some6:47 helium.

Mostly victim thingswaseven that, Steve Langley certainly p.m. accordpronounced related to Sometimes even the bubble you want from a summer ing to Chester Police to set nine Guinness World people have never seen with would. deceased by the Coro- this incident.

We are Chief William Petty. He ner, identified as Demarasking longest if anyone has Records, including bubbles before.”

Langley, a “bubbleolo- he makes surprise “bubbleolo- library program). of ficers knows were discushe’s J. Sanders age chain 19, information to conhanging of soap bubwhat “As we get into the show, saidLangley gist” and the ringmaster of gist” Steve Langley, like this thePhotos area of been and the victim, Investigator Provided bles (35) andtact most people Rikki talkingtoabout.

He’s a second the Soap Bubble Circus was big one he produced during you’ll see there’s a lot of patched Odom Street and our Jones a juvenile age 17, was Burch at the Chester From thescience Chester County Sheriff’s Office: ‘Today, professional enterOffice tainer for making bubbles with garland and involved. the featured enter tainer at his performance at the Ches- math Adair Park in reference treated for minor inju- Police Department.” hostedita Prayer Vigil at the Gateway Conference Center in wands simultaneously (317).

30 years, and a bubbleologist or not, said the the Summer program kick- ter County Library’s summer Believe to shots being fired. ries (bullet wound to No arrest had been Richburg, bubbleologist, SC, in honor of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg When toashis for about 10. officers the leg),” Petty top-hatted off at Chester Main Librar y. reading kickoff. arrival, saiditincomes a made of perthe News Police Department, US Marshals“Upon Service, and NC Departsonal soap bubble formula, How he become a bubHe amazed the crowd with two tripods), a soap bubble “there’s a lot of math inher- obser veddid several sub- press release. & Reporter’s deadline ment of Corrections. This event brought together the comjects at the park with Langley, like any good magibleologist?

The same way in bubbles.

For example, constructs such as a vapor- spaceship (complete with an entmunity This is an open and on Tuesday. and public safety officials from the surrounding cian, won’t reveal his secrets. you get to Carnegie Hall, of three bubbles interf i l l e d s n o w m a n ( w h i c h astronaut that feel back to where areas to offer prayers for the Law Enforcement Community “That’s trade he this course, but Monday with bubbles. always a per- that walked a tightrope across Ear th) and a bubble in the sect, “When ayou look secret,” at everything, as athey result of the form tragic events occurred Afterbubbly smile.card. I admit “Practice, practice practice. says fectnoon 120-degree angle.Our So I’m a span stretched between shape of a cube. casewith is asathin as a playing in Charlotte. hearts go out to the families, it doesn’t sound good but there’s more friends, and agencies of: Joshua Eyer, Charlotte Mecklenstory. Give Mr. Scott the benefit FROM PAGEPoloche, A1 burg Police Department, Samuel “Sam” US Mar-6:30 p.m. to the Ministerial Food Pantry from held inside the church Church is at 3594 June 9, and from 6 to 8 p.m. prayer meeting, of the doubt,” Boulware said. shals Task Force from the NCRichburg.

Department Wednesdays. of Corrections, Monday, June 10-Thursday, sanctuary. Sunday Lancaster Hwy., nightly Monday morning is at Johnny Roddeythrough from Chester She said Gene was a laidChurch back man Elliott,US Marshals Task Force the NCwelcome.

Wednesday, June 10-12. unionarpchurch.org June 13. The food pantry worship is at 10 William a.m., and“Alden” is Visit 523from Rose St., worldly all 911 documented the first call who wasn’t worried about pos- County Corrections Deputy USlived Marshal (Name the murders sessions. in a of singlewide trail-to in reference FROM PAGE A10 Church is to at 1570 Ashford came in Union ARPand Church on He is closed on Fridays until also available onDepartment Facebook ofand Because renovations yet to be released) Thank you toRichburg, each individual whohard and at 12:37 on June 21, 2020 with er in he worked Road,p.m.

Chester.

All welcome.

Facebook. further notice.

Live. Tuesday night Bible the sanctuary, all services joined us during this event to unite difficult loved hisduring family this and God. He actually EMS dispatched at 12:41 p.m. and law All invited. study is at 7 p.m.time.

All May peace and comfort find every agency, are held in thethe social hall friend, dispatched at 12:47 p.m. planned to buy a van, travel country enforcement WORD WESLEY ST. JOSEPH welcome, church is atfamily 552 member affected and/or gymnasium, the Two 911 callsAND wereSPIRIT played for the and during this challenging time. and spread the gospel at some point.

PURITY THE EXPERIENCE MEMORIAL UMC CATHOLIC one from Scott. HowAshford Road, Chester. to the It was evil thatbuilding ended his life,left shebehind said, jury, including #ChesterSCSheriff’ PRESBYTERIAN BGARNER@ONLINECHESTER.COM

TRIAL

CHURCH

Fun and clever to grab attention. Dough-mazing!

Worship service, 11 a.m.

Sunday, June 9.

Purity Presbyterian Church Playschool is now

Regular Mass schedule: Saturday vigil at 4 p.m.; Sunday Mass at 12:30 p.m.; and weekday Mass at 9:30 a.m. Thursdays. Church

UNION ARP

On Sundays, Bible study for children and adults is

to regular services Worship at 9:45driven a.m. by money.

Boulware objected to a third Scott knew he was ever, Listen the church. being intoevery evidence, but it was liveentered at 11 a.m.

Sunday Sundays with Pastor the beneficiary of Gene’s Yard sale,life 7 toinsurance 11 a.m. in the absence of the jury. In to inherit the remain- played at www.wordandspirit.com/ Shannon Higgins.policy The and stood Saturday, June 8. it, a woman said she had talked to her der of his retirement savings.

Gene had media. church is located at 1217 Vacation already given Scott more Bible than school $80,0006 toaunt (Gene’s ex-wife) who had suggestJ.A. Cochran Bypass.

All are

Department’s new Facebook page: Connecting with Our Community

Sewers and playgrounds funded

by ARPA elsewhere in county

GUN

BY FROM STAFF REPORTS $441,089 in ARPAtofunds. wounds her head. She found idenThe municipalities of Very little tification of that sum has Gene had his walof both…

Fort Lawn and Richburg actually been spentID at in this let with his pocket and Billie have both either a purse lying nearby her body.

FROM PAGE A1 spent or point, but had it has been earClinton also allocated all of the feder- marked. According to found the a card (a Father’s (reading exchange Day Card in particular) near the front Townthe (which responded alChipley American RescueanPlan two(ARPA) had via Facebook Messenger) porch the trailer. to a News & of Repor ter Scott had claimed Act funds they detailedinthat Scott suddenly wanted he was stopping by to give Gene that received 2022. to meet earlier… too early for Chipley card when he found them dead. She SEE ARPA / PAGE A3 For t Lawn r eceived

to make it, in fact. They ended up meeting at 9 a.m. with Chipley saying that Scott was nicely dressed but that he “stared off into space” as they consummated the sale.

also noticed the glass around the fireplace of the trailer was completely shattered.

Dr. Kelly Rose from the Newberr y Pathology Group performed the

District presents budget priority recommendations to school board

FEATURE HEADLINE WRITING

ALL DAILY DIVISION

THIRD PLACE Emalyn Muzzy The Sun News

SECOND PLACE Maria Elena Scott The Sun News

FEATURE HEADLINE WRITING

ALL DAILY DIVISION

FIRST PLACE

Terri Richardson The Sun News

All three headlines were catchy yet factual; each made me smile (and chuckle) immediately AND want to read the article. Bravo!

SPORTS HEADLINE WRITING

A6 The News & RepoRTeR Wednesday, July 17, 2024

SPORTS

‘BRING HOME THAT W’

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

8U Chester Softball All Stars celebrate state win, look ahead to World’s

BY TRAVIS JENKINS

TJENKINS@ONLINECHESTER.COM

BY BRIAN GARNER

BGARNER@ONLINECHESTER.COM

THIRD PLACE SPORTS

B4 THE GREER CITIZEN

Trey Stewart The Greer Citizen

WEDNESDAY, JULY 10, 2024

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2024

y the time you read this, the State Champion Chester All Stars 8U softball team will be on their way to the World Series, representing the state of South Carolina at the Fair view Ball Park in Fair view, Tennessee (near Nashville).

The team, coaches, supporters and parents got together in downtown Chester on Sunday to celebrate the win, eat a few hot dogs (the traditional baseball and softball food) and look ahead to what’s coming.

Chester Mayor Carlos Williams told the team how proud the City was of them.

“We celebrate these young ladies for accomplishing what they have, never before in the City of Chester and Chester County, winning the state title.

We are so proud of them.

“We celebrate these young ladies, because I always love to support the positive in our community. We always see news of the negatives and it sometimes overrides the good, but we can pull together and support the positives. We planned to do something downtown for all the kids, even before the 8U team won the state title. The City got together with the county’s support, and the support of Chester Parks, Recreation and Tourism Director Britt Stoudenmire and his staff and the DYS board members.

“Children brought us all NO-HITTING ‘HAWK: Stefoff throws no-hitter for Greer Post 115 B1 together: no matter what else is going on in the world, sports and entertainment and children, brought us together,” Mayor Williams said.

“Whatever our kids need, we need to be there to support them. When there’s anything positive happening with kids, parents, grandparents, aunts SOUTH CAROLINA’S PREMIER WEEKLY and uncles, cousins, we have GREER, SOUTH CAROLINA VOL. 111 NO. 28 $1.00

Holzheimer named to SC Firefighter Hall of Fame New student-

‘I’M GOING TO MAKE GREER GREAT AGAIN’

Amare Anderson’s love for the city that loves him back

SPORTS

B2 THE GREER CITIZEN

BY TREY STEWART SPORTS EDITOR Step into the Old School Barber Shop on any day of the week, any time of day.

It doesn’t matter.

Just make sure you’re ready to talk sports when you get there.

From 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. — sun up to sundown — the topic of discussion stays the same. Sports, from the pros down to the high school leagues, is king of conversation among the barbers and the shop’s patrons. Hanging from the walls are pictures of past local star athletes.

For much of Amare Anderson’s young life, that little barber shop — located off East Wade Hampton in the deep, vintage Greer — was home.

Before Anderson became the face of Greer basketball, shooting the net off the rim every week, he’d shoot the breeze with the guys at The Old School Barber Shop.

Amare’s uncle, Nige Ramage, cut his hair every month. He still does.

His late grandfather, Clarence Moody, used to hang out at the barber shop every day before going to work. Moody passed in 2018. His picture hangs on the walls, too.

“That was just my place growing up,” said Amare.

“Those guys at that barbershop, they know all about every player in every sport at every level,” said Twanzette Anderson, Amare’s mother. “That’s all they talk about. That’s all you get.”

A junior at Greer now, Amare remembers a conversation with his uncle and other barbers at the shop following his freshman basketball season.

Amare had just finished a successful campaign with the Yellow Jackets, starting almost every game in his first year on varsity.

As a team, however, Greer finished with a

Joshua Holzheimer began his career in the fire service 1998 as a volunteer with the Landrum Fire Department. Now, he’s the Deputy Fire Chief at Greer Fire Department and was just named to the South Carolina State Firefighter Hall of Fame.

The Florida native resides in Lyman with his wife and five daughters.

Until 2004, Holzheimer worked as a paramedic with Spartanburg EMS and Greenville County EMS before joining the fire service full-time with Greer in 2005.

Holzheimer holds an associates, bachelors,

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 31, 2024

averaged over 22 points per game and was named Region 4A-2 Player of the Year. He led Greer to a 21-6 record, its best mark in 13 years.

Their season, however, was cut short by Greenville in the second round of the playoffs.

It was on to his junior season.

JOB’S NOT FINISHED

TREY STEWART | THE GREER CITIZEN

Despite pleas to play at other schools, Amare followed his heart and stayed home, vowing to ‘make Greer great again.’

7-17 record. They were dead last in their region, not sniffing the playoffs.

Greer was a far cry from the program it used to be.

The barber shop patrons weren’t shy in giving Amare their opinions.

“Some of them were telling me I needed to go to a different school,” said Amare. “They told me that Greer wasn’t the place I needed to be if I wanted to be successful. They said I needed to leave.”

“Amare had a lot of schools pulling on him to leave Greer and come over somewhere else instead,” said Amare’s father, Vin-

cent Anderson. “People were telling him to go elsewhere. But that was never going to be him. One thing about Amare is that he’s the most loyal person I know.”

Amare made a declaration in the barbershop that day that he still carries with him. Despite being pushed by many to take his talents elsewhere, he shut them all down.

“My whole life is here in Greer. I’ve got so much family in Greer. This is my home,” said Amare.

“I told them that day that I’m not going anywhere. I’m going to make Greer great again.”

PHOTO | SUBMITTED

As a kid, Amare spent much of his time playing basketball.

No matter the weather, he was in the backyard practicing. time at age 3, Amare decided to give both sports a shot.

Amare played baseball and basketball while also singing on Sundays at his church.

His dad is a pastor at Aiken Chapel Memorial Baptist Church in Taylors. His mom sings at the church and is a gospel recording artist.

Amare’s shy to show off his singing voice these days, but he’s still got it,

wasn’t going to actually get in any of the games,” said Amare. “That feeling did something to me.

I worked my butt off that seventh-grade summer. I wasn’t about to go down like that.”

Amare put the work in, and one year later, he was named the middle school team MVP as an eighth grader.

“After my eighth-grade year, that’s when I knew I could do something with

PHOTO | SUBMITTED

Jack Septon stares through the fence at historic Victor Field. Jack was the final player to hit a home run at Victor Field back in May during his t-ball game.

THE LAST HOME RUN PHOTO | SUBMITTED

TAKING DOWN GIANTS

Iturbe following father’s footsteps on collegiate basketball path

I

‘KEEP IT UP, YOUNGBLOOD’

Amare’s parents never had to wonder where he was.

“As a young boy… rain, sleet, snow on the ground, cold, hot as ever, dark outside, it didn’t matter,” his mom said. “Amare was always in the backyard playing ball. And we never ever bothered him.”

At first, it was just Amare shooting by himself.

But eventually, other kids from the community ventured to the Anderson’s backyard to play basketball with Amare.

Sometimes, even older members of the community would drive by to offer encouragement.

“Keep it up, youngblood, keep it up!” they’d yell out

After seemingly every shot Amare made, he let out a roar or flexed his arms. Whenever his teammates scored or made a big play, Amare was the first to dap them up and show them love.

It meant everything to him.

Greer’s 59-57 downto-the-wire win over Greenville on Saturday represented a payoff for Amare’s loyalty. Three times he led his Jackets against Greenville the season prior, three times they fell short — including their 64-58 playoff loss to the Red Raiders.

Not this time. With 20 points, Amare helped lead Greer to its first win over Greenville since 2020. The Jackets improved to 15-3 on the season, on pace to eclipse last year’s stellar record.

“We were able to fight through adversity and finally get one against them,” said Amare. “Some heads went down at some points during the game, but nobody kept them down. I love seeing that.”

“Amare is one of my all-time favorites, one of the most talented guys I’ve ever coached,” said Liferidge. “He’s a leader for us. And the crazy thing is that he’s still figuring

BY TREY STEWART things out. His ceiling is just that high.”

SPORTS EDITOR After the game, one might have assumed Am-had never ker Iturbe are stayed out lateonecelbeen to shy away ebrating the from milestone a challenge. He win. Most 16-year-old kids out of takmade a career probably would have.head-on.

It ing them was a Saturday But night, on after Jan. 21, 1995, all. he came up against the Not Amare.heaviest He had to be challenge he’d up early for church in ever seen. the morning.

Iturbe, a freshman “He’s homeplaying by 11 o’clock basketball for almost everyClemson, night,” said went through Vincent. “After big pregame win his ausual roulike that, he tines mightahead go eat of the Tigers’ with his teammates, conferencebut matchup that’s it.” against Wake Forest— “If I’m being honest, eventual ACC champions.

I’m sort of The a homebody Demon Deacons came anyways,” said Amare.No. “I 16 in the in ranked don’t always like being country. Clemson hadn’t around a lot of people. I been ranked in years. like being to myself. When The Tigers readied to do a lot of people are around, sometimes it gets to be too much for me.”

Plus, the job’s not finished, Amare says, quoting the famous line from the legendary Kobe Bryant. He’ll celebrate later.

There’s still a lot more work left to do.

And back at The Old

driven podcast promotes Great Falls athletics

BY MACY COCHRAN EDITOR

battle against a figurative giant.

Iturbe, on the other hand, prepared to face a literal one.

The 6-foot-7 center learned before the game that he’d be drawn up against Wake Forest’s rising star: a sophomore forward/center by the name of Tim Duncan.

“I knew it was going to be hard,” said Iturbe. “I wasn’t intimidated, but I knew it was going to be a tough day to try and guard that guy.”

Iturbe was the tallest player getting consistent minutes in Clemson’s lineup, so by default, he obtained the honors of guarding Duncan—the future NBA Hall of Famer.

‘It was third grade when I realized Julen had that ‘it factor.’

Iker Iturbe

Julen’s father and former basketball player As a freshman, Iturbe held his own against Duncan. The Tigers couldn’t pull off the upset but kept it close throughout.

Iturbe still keeps a picture of himself and Duncan going to war in the paint.

“Tim was definitely the hardest player I ever had to guard,” he said. “But there were a lot of guys I played against back then that were great.”

He has no trouble listing them off, either. Names like Jerry Stackhouse and Rasheed Wallace, Vince Carter, Stephon Marbury, and Antwan Jamison roll

to college that you’re not actually that good,” said Iturbe. “A lot of guys are way better than you in different ways. Coach [Rick] Barnes taught me to push myself to limits that I never thought I could.

“When you think you’re tired, you go another hour of practice. That’s what it took to play at that level and compete against guys who, looking at it now, are NBA legends.”

BY TREY STEWART SPORTS EDITOR Jack Septon, like many kids his age, finds it impossible to sit still.

Everywhere he looks is an opportunity for fun. Every step he takes is one giant leap closer to his next big adventure.

Jack is but 4 years old— the realities of the cruel, ever-changing world still far eclipse his 3-and-a-half foot stature.

He’s sitting on the bleachers of what is, for now at least, Victor Field in downtown Greer. Jack taps his tiny baseball cleats and turns his head every which way—scoping out his next thrill.

Just a few weeks ago, his biggest thrill was a big white baseball placed precisely upon a tee, begging

‘I’ve driven by this field 10 thousand times in my life. It’s always been here.

And I imagined it always would be here.’

Robbie Septon for the eager Jack to slam through it with all his miniature might.

In that game between Jack’s t-ball team (The Dodgers) and the Cubs, Jack ripped a scorcher off that tee and into the outfield. He sped around

first. Second and third base cowered, no match for little Jack’s determination and churning legs. He slammed his feet on home plate with a smile. Parents, teammates, and coaches cheered and congratulated Jack on a moment he’ll never forget.

He’d just hit the last home run of the game.

The last home run of the season.

The last home run Victor Field would ever see.

As part of multi-million dollar developmental plans approved by the City of Greer, Victor Field will soon come down. A new baseball field will take its place at Turner Park in downtown Greer. Baseball at Victor Field, after more than 100 years of memories, will be no more.

SEE VICTOR | B2

media but also serves to help promote the school’s teams and athletes.

Great Falls Athletic Director Josh Jennings oversees the podcast as part of his journalism class. Jennings does not necessarily have a background in broadcast journalism but has worked on podcasts at his previous stops. When he was working at Wilson Hall, the athletic director there handled all the school’s athletic social media and did a podcast.

“He showed me his setup,” Jennings said. “Then I picked up some ideas from YouTube.”

When he was the assistant athletic director at Lake City he started podcast but got students more involved. That has blossomed into a much more student-focused and operated

Ivey’s 13th Annual Food Drive taking donations

BY MACY COCHRAN EDITOR Ivey’s Annual Food Drive is back this July, returning for the 13th year in a row and put on by 13-year-old Ivey Tapp, whose desire is to make a positive impact on the local community by feeding those in need each year on her birthday.

Over a decade ago, when Ivey’s parents got married, the two asked for canned goods instead of wedding gifts, and once Ivey entered the picture, the couple asked for canned goods once more to celebrate their baby’s birthday.

But the tradition carried strongly through the years, and now, Ivey is well-known by the community’s nonprofits for her annual canned food drive, which raises thousands of dollars each year and thousands of pounds worth of food to feed those in need at Greer Community Ministries.

Currently, those wishing to donate to the food drive can find donation boxes around Greer in many local businesses and organizations.

“Many people have supported Ivey year after year!” said Stacy Tapp, Ivey’s mom. “It has been a true blessing watching

PHOTO | SUBMITTED

Ivey, a local teenager, is taking both food and monetary donations for the 13th year in a row to help support Greer Community Ministries as they feed those in need.

Ivey’s food drive grow year after year. Our Greer community is a special one–– one full of citizens who

are kind, compassionate, and most of all generous toward others in need.”

SEE DRIVE | A5

Crumbl Cookies is coming to town

PASSING IT ON

Julen Iturbe has seen his dad’s highlights. Iker’s college, high school, and professional tapes—all of it.

Iker was never going to force Julen, his youngest son, into basketball just because he played it in his day.

Thankfully for him, Julen fell in love with the sport on his own.

“I first started playing basketball in first grade, but I think the game really started coming to me by the time I got to fourth

Unyielding wave of change washes over historic Victor Field

Joshua Holzheimer and masters degree and graduated from the South Carolina State Firefighters Associations Leadership Institute in 2013. In 2021, he graduated from National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program.

At the annual fire conference with the SC State Firefighter Association on June 13, Holzheimer was inducted into the Hall of Fame. As the past president of the association from June 2022-23, his induction was expected,BY TRAVIS JENKINS but it was neverthelessTJENKINS@ONLINECHESTER.COM an exciting moment for Holzheimer.

It’s like having students read “It’s a very humbling the exmorning announcements perience because I’ve givthe school PA system, but en the majority of over my life with of a modern twist. to serving the citizens Greer and the community The Great Falls High School where I grew up,” he said. athletic department has just “Being inducted into the begun Hall of Fame solidifies my season two of its podcast series called “The Red Devil service in the community.”

His hope through it all Roundup”.

The project has an has been to help and imeducational aspect for students pact people. in terms of dealing with new SEE HOLZHEIMER | A6

To open this summer

BY MACY COCHRAN EDITOR

PHOTO | SUBMITTED

Crumbl Cookies is coming to town, opening by the end of the summer at 1128 Wade Hampton Blvd., Greer.

According to Crumbl representatives, a grand opening celebration is in

world to communities all over,” they told The Greer Citizen.

HOW IT BEGAN

Two cousins, Jason McGowan and Sawyer Hemsley, founded Crumbl Cookies with the “perfect cookie quest” in mind, as they set forth to create the world’s best chocolate chip cookie.

We got far more than a chocolate chip cookie, though.

Top-ranked Cycs open with Bruins

They want to end the season at number one in AA and that is where they start the season.

The top-ranked Chester Cyclones open the year at home Friday against AAAA Lancaster. The two teams have frequently met early in the year in recent seasons and last year’s edition was by far the most lopsided in recent years, with Chester taking a 42-6 win. The

B

BY BILL MARION

Chester has had big success running the ball in the pre-season.

Cyclones actually led 42-0 at one point in the third quarter, which led to a running clock the rest of the way.

“It was the first game of the season. A lot of things went on in that game,” said Chester Coach Victor Floyd.

Chester scored on the opening possession, but then got a defensive touchdown on a fumble recover y, had an offensive lineman recover a Chester fumble for six more points and the defense struck again with an inter-

ception return for a touchdown. On one occasion, Lancaster brought a man in motion on a punt, had the snap hit him and bounce into the hands of a Chester player for a walk-in score. The Cyclones certainly outplayed the Bruins, but a lot of things went in Chester’s direction to tur n it into a blowout.

Floyd is not expecting more of the same.

“They are an option team,” he said. “They run the football very well and they’ve got

a decent amount of players back from last year.”

After str uggling in the regular season, Lancaster went on a surprising run to the third round of the AAAA playof fs. Floyd said that shows the Bruins can’t be taken lightly.

“When they got more reps they got better as the season went along. And they play a physical style of ball you don’t see a lot,” Floyd said.

SECOND PLACE

SEE CYCS/PAGE A7

Lions get an early start on the season

PHOTOS BY BRIAN GARNER/THE N&R

8U softball Chester All Star team members lined the wall on Chester’s Monument Square to listen to speeches of congratulations from local officials and their coach, praising their state championship accomplishments.

Travis Jenkins The News & Reporter

BY TRAVIS JENKINS

TJENKINS@ONLINECHESTER.COM

This is the design of the t-shirts that the 8U Chester All Stars team was selling to help raise funds for their World Series trip to Tennessee. The shirt has the name of all the DYS state championship team members and coaches. to be there to support them.

Today, the City of Chester and the City Council, City Administrator Malik Whitaker, we are all excited for the young people in our community and anything we can do to help and support, we will,” Mayor Williams said.

“The City of Chester, Chester County and me, Carlos Wil-

The 8U Chester All Stars softball team posed for a picture with their coaches at the celebration in downtown Chester.

Team representative Toni Perrigan told the crowd that the team was still raising funds and had not yet reached the $22,000 goal needed to secure

liams, we love ya,” he said.

The City plans to approve a proclamation of support for the team and provide some financial support as well.

lodging, food and other needs for the team’s journey to the World Series.

SEE BRING/PAGE A7

Speak(ing) of the Devil(s) would begin.

“It’s been fun to see kids work out the jitters,” he said.

Season two’s debut (which premiered on Monday) features an interview Jennings did with Great Falls student-athlete A6 The News & RepoRTeR Wednesday, November 29, 2023 Hunter Self.

“He’s a five-sport athlete,” Jennings said. “He’s in his first year of playing football, he runs cross country, he’s student body president. Having a new coaching staff come in and bring some new energy to the football program, it was good to have someone to speak to that.”

Not every student in the journalism class Jennings teaches has an interest in pursuing journalism long-term. He had FILE PHOTO one student last year that was Great Falls athletes and coaches are the focus of a new podcast produced with heavy input from interested in doing graphics students at the school. (student also do the “gameday” arrangement at Great Falls. “sweet spot” for show releases time, it has been a hand-on graphics that are pushed on social media platforms) and Jennings started the Great Falls didn’t seem to depend on the learning tool for students. podcast last year and it primari- day, but time seemed to be a “It helps make kids under- another that expressed an ly began with him interviewing factor. For the most part, epi- stand that you don’t just write interest in sports writing. He student athletes and coaches. sodes posted between 5 p.m. an article and put it in the paper isn’t sure what this year will As it progressed, though, it was and 7 p.m. with correspond- and it sells itself anymore. You hold until he sees his new class

BY TRAVIS JENKINS the students in his journalism ing promotion on social media still want to write high quality in action, but hopes they’ll TJENKINS@ONLINECHESTER.COM class that began to drive the seemed to get the most atten- articles with good information take the ball and run with it as here will be more last year’s class did. He thinks project. He said by the end of tion. Jennings hasn’t turned girls in them but you than usual in thealso want to the year, it was mainly students over the school’s social media Chester use different avenues to maxi- growth will be seen in students High gym over the course of the season, doing the interviews and edits accounts to students, butthis haswinter mize your he said. and theyreach,” won’t be on the shows. That was a learn- encouraged them to use their Some of basketball. the best moments and it will be heard too. cheering or playing The new episode of “The Red ing experience in itself, but cre- own to promote episodes. For the from season one (from last first time, Chester ating content is only half of the Jennings said people have High will be fielding full Jennings were Devil Roundup” can be heard school year)afor girls wrestling equation. “I had them analyze been receptive to the concept thingsteam. thatThere might not have at https://www.buzzsprout. a fewup girls which episodes did really well. and that the community have has been ended ontothe final, edited com/2002557/15417565?fbcompete along withHe their So we looked at when we post- embraced the podcast. So it episodes. said the podcast clid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMmale counterparts in the past ed them and analyzed those is achieving his aim of sharis “low stress” but students TEAAR3j9Zaga4GqHfDa-ftULxbut interest in the things so we could maximize ing the stories of athletesfew andyears, and even some adults would L8rACWVC vMAwgOutsHTsport has increased to the our reach,” Jennings said. coaches and getting informageta nervous point that dedicatedand girlstense once the n5z7MeKkLIm0RDvZ6c_aem_ Students found that the tion out to fans. At the same questions and program has been added.conversations w3tHU3AqmrlYZBGbfc6THg

SPORTS

For most teams, the 2024 season can’t get here fast enough. For Lewisville, it may be getting here a little too fast.

The Lions were supposed to open the season at home Friday against Central of Pageland. That became an away game when construction on Lewisville’s stadium went past schedule and then a neutral site game when Pageland’s field was infested with army worms. The two will now play at Buford and the game is a day earlier, slated for Thursday night.

New Lewisville Coach Trent Usher said the lost day of preparation was not a welcome development, but that his team will adjust. Cen-

the team now operates from a spread on offense. Defensively, Usher said Pageland has a lot of team speed and he had especially high praise for senior defensive lineman Kobe Davis.

“He’s one of the best defensive ends I’ve seen in a while,” Usher said.

Lewisville is coming off a 14-0 jamboree win over Ware Shoals. Usher said his team got of f to a slow star t, but also noted the Lions haven’t really put up big numbers in BILL MARION the jamboree in either of the previous two seasons. After Jordan Strong runs over a defender during the jamboree. suf fering two early tur ntral (where Usher previously line and the quarterback can overs, the of fense turned coached and played during move,” he said. to the ground game and it his prep career) will present During his time playing paid off. After Ware Shoals a lot of challenges, he said. and coaching for the Eagles, had some success sustaining “They’ve got two good run- Central generally embraced ning backs, a big offensive a power running game, but SEE LIONS/PAGE A7

Worm turns again for Lewisville and Pageland the teams use its facility. home game. The Lions are Season opener for Lions moved again let However, Buford has its sea- slated to be on the road next

BY TRAVIS JENKINS

TJENKINS@ONLINECHESTER.COM

If Lewisville and Central of Pageland had a fishing tournament set for this week, they’d be in luck.

For the second time in a week, the site of the seasoning-opening matchup for the Lions and Eagles has had to be moved. Work remains ongoing (and past original completion estimates) on installing a district track at Lewisville’s football stadium. As of last week, there was not a guarantee that work would be done in time for Lewisville’s season-opening home game against Central.

With the opponent needing at least two weeks to make

arrangements to host the game, the decision was made to move it to Central. On Saturday, however, Lewisville Athletic Director Kirk Cannon said the field in Pageland is now unavailable as well.

“They have an infestation of army worms,” he said.

Despite the name, the pests actually aren’t worms, but a form of caterpillar that can feast on grass.

“Welcome to high school football,” Cannon said.

With neither team actually able to host the game, a quick search for a neutral site had to be executed. Cannon said Buford High School in Lancaster County agreed to

A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN Girls now have their own wrestling team at CHS

T

Dennis Jensen, who coaches the boys wrestling team, is also coaching the girls. He has been impressed with how well his female athletes have taken to the sport.

“Most of the girls pick up moves quicker than the guys do,” he said. “Some of them are a lot more aggressive too.

That’s good. It’s easier to get someone to dial back their aggressiveness than it is to get someone to be aggressive that isn’t.”

The new team has led to a massive juggling of schedules and facilities. Between the middle school and high school teams and the boys and girls teams, Jensen figures he presently has about 90 wrestlers in the program overall. He has two mats to use for practice on the stage between the gym and cafeteria, which can obviously not accommodate 90 athletes at a time. So, he has a “newbie” group and an experienced group. While the experienced wrestlers practice on the stage, the other group runs or lifts weights. Then the less experienced wrestlers move to the

BY TRAVIS JENKINS

Girls have participated in high school wrestling in the past, but most had to compete against boys. Many schools, including Chester, now have a dedicated team just for girls. stage while the others hit the weight room for strength and conditioning.

The season is about to start and that will present an entirely different set of challenges.

“At times, we will have two or more of our teams wrestling in different locations at the same time,” Jensen said.

So, Jensen will do his best to get to multiple matches, but at a certain point he said he will have to spread his assistant coaches out to help cover everything in situations where the boys team might be wrestling at one meet and the girls (or one of the middle school teams) are wrestling somewhere else.

The South Carolina High School League, the governing body of prep athletics in the state, has adopted some rules

to help manage the sport as it grows.

To have a full team, a school must have at least seven girls (to theoretically fill half of the weight classes). If a school has less than seven, the girls must wrestle with the boys in team dual meets.

When a school has less than seven, though, the girls can opt to wrestle against either boys or just girls when it comes to individual meets. In that sense, schools that do not sport full teams actually have a bit more flexibility.

That can actually be an advantage in situations where a female wrestler is either really good and can compete with boys or if she can fill a weight class that might get a team some points on a forfeit. In Chester’s case, with a full team,

the girls can only compete against others girls teams in duals.

Scheduling dual meets has been a bit of an issue since many area schools don’t yet have full girls teams. Jensen said he has had no problem whatsoever filling his boys schedule but has had to really search for girls competition.

Lancaster and Rock Hill both sport girls teams but none of Chester’s actual region mates (Woodruff, Union County, Emerald and Clinton) do. They all have girls wrestlers that Chester’s girls can compete against in individual tournaments, however. Jensen said he actually favors a plan that would reduce the number of weight classes in girls wrestling, making it easier for schools to fill out full teams,

but that idea has not yet been adopted by the League.

As far as the sport itself, Jensen said there is no difference at all in terms of the length of matches or rules. There is a different singlet girls can wear that is cut in such a way that it “provides more coverage.”

Chester is hosting a big middle school and JV tournament this Saturday starting at 8:30 a.m., the proceeds of which Jensen hopes to put towards both entry fees for his teams in upcoming tournament and the purchase of singlets for the 15 girls in the program (eight varsity and seven middle school wrestlers). He thinks the sport has a bright future both locally and statewide.

“I’m happy to see the interest and to see it growing” Jensen said.

Numerous county players earn postseason honors

BY TRAVIS JENKINS

TJENKINS@ONLINECHESTER.COM

son-opening game at home on Friday (When Lewisville vs.

Central was to take place), so the Lions and Eagles will now face off this Thursday night at Buford at 7:30 p.m.

Lewisville Coach Trent Usher said losing a day of preparation cer tainly isn’t ideal, but that his team will just adjust and do what it has to.

“Thursday we would normally do our walk-through,” he said. “But we’ll just have to roll with it.”

Unfortunately, there actually is not a guarantee that the work being done on the track will be done in time for Lewisville to host its next scheduled

week at Hunter-Kinard-Tyler, but are supposed to play host to Atlantic Collegiate on Sept.

6. A Chester County School District official told the News & Reporter that delays in finishing the track were weather related and said there is no definitive date on when the work will be finished.

As of Saturday, Cannon said a decision had not yet been made about how the gate will be handled. When the game was originally moved to Central, Cannon said there was discussion of either the two teams splitting it, or of next year’s game (slated to be played in Pageland) being moved to Lewisville.

The Red D their two-quar ter with the Bearcats tied tainly showed ise, par ticula came to throw down the fiel back Tremain hit three pa more than 40 of those wen ster Ty Bell, Great Falls up five. Caldwell drive off with right up the touchdown. A though, he wa by some def taken hard to Some Red De came to the their quarterb to four unspo flags being th against Great led to the poi being backed 33, so the tea two. Caldwe his right on t lobbed a perfe towards Austi who timed hi a defender pe snared it for t conversion a lead.

Great Fall

SEE DEVILS

Ches blows Richl North

BY TRAVIS

TJENKINS@ONLIN

When yo t wo -qua r t er matchup with clock, you’ve night. Chester night Friday.

The Cyclo dominant on of the ball an AAAA Richlan by a final score Chester was in getting on marching 75 score in nine opening drive mixed the ru well. Troope Amari Nesmit 15-yard throw zipped a ball t fic to T’Mari conver t a thi situation. Th used a coupl to great effec the march but haifah Taylor things with a 1 ing run. A su for two made ter early on.

Chester di a sustained d success on the On second team got th Northeast def

SEE CHESTER

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Mike McCombs The Island News

Can never, ever go wrong with a reference to one of the best baseball movies in our history.

SPORTS HEADLINE WRITING

https://thetandd.newspapers.com/image/1054482238/

The times and democrat (Orangeburg, South Carolina) 2 Downloaded on

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Kristin Coker The Times and Democrat https://thetandd.newspapers.com/image/1046520109/

THETANDD.COM

Tuesday, April 9, 2024

SC STATE FOOTBALL

‘We have to eliminate S.I.N.’s,’ Berry says PAGE B3

SECTION B

CLEMSON FOOTBALL

Orange gets victory in spring game PAGE B4

WOMEN’S NCAA NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

Staley, Carolina could repeat DOUG FEINBERG

AP Basketball Writer

CLEVELAND — Dawn Staley and South Carolina have cemented their place as the next dynasty in women’s basketball.

With two NCAA titles in the past three seasons and 109 wins in the last 112 games, it’s hard to argue with that. It doesn’t look like it’s going to end any time soon with most of the team back from this year’s title team.

First it was Immaculata then Louisiana Staley Tech and USC. Next was Pat Summitt with Tennessee before Geno Auriemma and UConn took over.

Now it’s Staley’s turn. She joined an exclusive group on Sunday as the Gamecocks became the 10th team to go undefeated in a season. Staley also became the fifth coach to win at least three titles.

After Sunday’s 87-75 win over Caitlin Clark and Iowa, the Gamecocks have won three titles in the last eight years. In her 16 years at the school, Staley has built South Carolina, which was once an also-ran in the tradition-rich Southeastern Conference, into the measuring stick for the women’s game.

“Dawn Staley knows that it takes more than Xs and Os to win games,” basketball analyst Christy Winters-Scott said. “She is winning the hearts, souls and minds of the next generation of powerful, exceptional leaders. The level of faith and belief is what will continue to carry this program forward for years to come.”

A’ja Wilson got the title run started in 2017 and then it was Aliyah Boston’s turn as she led the team to the 2022 championship.

Staley, who became the fifth coach to win at least three NCAA championships, could have had a few more.

She lost out on the 2020 one due to the coronavirus pandemic when her team was one of the best in the country. The Gamecocks also fell just short a couple times in the Final Four.

DAWN

OF A

DYNASTY CAROLYN KASTER, AP

South Carolina players and coaches celebrate after the Final Four college basketball championship game against Iowa in the women’s NCAA Tournament on Sunday in Cleveland. South Carolina won 87-75.

Gamecocks win third national title, with revenge over Iowa, Clark TOM WITHERS

AP Sports Writer

CLEVELAND — With the championship secured, Dawn Staley released a year’s worth of pent-up frustration and pain.

The tears flowed freely. The burden lifted.

South Carolina got past Caitlin Clark this time.

A year after their perfect season crashed with a semifinal loss to the sensational Clark in the Final Four, the Gamecocks and Staley, their fi-

VIEW: A photo gallery from the Women’s NCAA Tournament championship game between South Carolina and Iowa.

Point your cellphone camera at the QR code and tap the link to view. ery and fierce coach, finished the job with an 87-75 win over Iowa in the NCAA championship on Sunday.

This wasn’t necessarily about revenge, although South Carolina

guard Raven Johnson dubbed this season “The Revenge Tour,” it was incredibly satisfying for South Carolina (38-0), which became just the 10th team in history to finish undefeated.

“It was emotional for me because of how it ended last year,” said Staley, who sat at the postgame dais with a net draped around her neck and the NCAA title trophy within reach. “I’ll leave that there.”

Please see GAMECOCKS, Page B2

Please see STALEY, Page B2

Stepping into the light

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The times and democrat (Orangeburg, South Carolina) · Thu, Feb 8, 2024 · Page B1 Downloaded on Nov 18, 2024

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Kyle Dawson Aiken Standard

Appreciate the creative, effective headlines for stories/features when a lot publications would keep it simple and straightforward.

NEWS SECTION OR SPECIAL EDITION

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Janel Przybyla and Staff The Sumter Item

SECOND PLACE

Brandon Roberts and Staff The Summerville Journal Scene

NEWS SECTION OR SPECIAL EDITION

SPECIAL SECTIO

Sunday, June 23, 2024

D1

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Staff The Post and Courier

Employees of Upto Saturday the Charl wn Social walk the bar at midnight eston bar staff celeb to shoot off confe tti, rate Nap Time as a way to energize toss napkins and fog the crowd as ANDRE W WHITAK ER/STAFF the partygoers on an event they call Nap Time. Every Frida the weekend. y and

King Street nights Here’s what happen s wh into Charleston’s en en 50,000 people pile ter tainment district

A

WRITTEN BY JOCE LYN GRZESZCZAK and PARKER MILN IMAGES BY GRAC ER E BEAHM ALFO HENRY TAYLOR RD, LAUR A BILSON, GAVIN McIN and ANDREW WHI TYRE, TAKER

woman climbs on top of the bar at 11:58 p.m., lifting a bright white sign high above her head.

How we did this A man in a banana The Post and Couri er lows. An astronaut suit folteam of six reporters sent a completes the trio. They rally photographers to and five the docu beneath them, swayi crowd Upper King nightlife. ment hips and pumping ng their fanned across the They their arms. district from Suddenly the beat Carolina to Calhoun drops and the room is bathed between 5 p.m. and streets in chilly fog. Confetti thick, four nights in April 3 a.m. on blasts. The and May. banana tosses flims The resulting story y paper represents squares from his perch a composite night of these crowd erupts in scream. The embeds.

It’s Nap Time at Uptows.

To draw conclusion n s Social: The bar’s weeke crime rates, reportersabout tion marking the strokend tradifive years of data fromanalyzed of midnight, the pinnacle a public Charleston Police moment of a Depa night out on Uppe database. Reporters rtment r King Nightlife is a big deal Street. additional police datarequested in this part of downtown throu gh the S.C. Freedom of Charl InformaThe Upper King area eston. tion Act. around 70 restaurants,boasts bars, clubs, dessert spots and cafés.

Giddy rituals like Nap Time Mayor William Cogsw feed into the hype. ell is the latest to wade More than 50,000 into the peopl fray. He unveiled a pile into the mile-long e will host of new stretc safety measures this h between Carolina and including dedicated spring, streets over a single Calhoun weekend — Charl pickup locations andrideshare enough to fill Credi eston Police Depa new DUI t One Stacheckpoints.

GAVIN MCINT YRE/ST Street to control traffi rtment officers remove barricade dium on Daniel Island AFF s from c before people begin nearly Bar owners say they’r five times. going to bars and a trailer they will set up on King e enthurestaurants on April siastic about worki Upper King is a beaco ng 12. on these initiatives. with him college students and n for They’ re bachelorwary of being blame ette parties, snowbirds d for crime and unruly behavior residents. It’s a mega and along the corridor.

Charleston’s touris magnet for m industry, Charleston has a gente which pumps millio chanting reputation. el, enlocal economy. It’s ns into the also spotted skyline and Its steepleof concerns over crime a hotbed and livstreets tell one story.cobblestone ability.

Upper King Street tells anoth Some nearby reside The story that city er. had it with the const nts have ant noise, ultimately embrace leaders and with revelers distur could signal an identity shift: Do quiet streets in search bing they welcome a thriving party or their car. They’ve of a bed or will they double culture the squeeze of short- witnessed down with more restrictions? als on Charleston’s term rentIs already limmiddle ground? And there a ited housing market. who gets to decide?

Others who seldom Amid this renewed corridor after 9 p.m. see the worry that The Post and Cour attention, it’s dangerous. ier sent a team of six reporters and five City officials spent photographers to docum trying to breathe life decades Upper King nightlife. ent King when it was a into Upper shabby strip fanned across the distriThey of vacant and decre pit Carolina to Calhoun ct from that many locals avoid buildings between 5 p.m. and streets efforts took root over ed. Those 3 four nights in April a.m. on century, creating a a quarterand May. throbbing The resulting story hub that a new gener represents a composite night Gracie Barnwell (right leaders struggles to ation of of these emtame. ), looks beds. back at her new husb ANDRE W WHITAK while they get out ER/STAFF and of a Ford Bronco Come see what we for their wedding Grayson Barnwell from Charleston found. night at Hotel Benn , ett on April 13.

Please see KING STREE T, Page D2

Great photos, and an interesting, well written narrative. I’d imagine many of your readers aren’t the partying type, and this is pretty transporting.

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Brandon Roberts and Staff The Summerville Journal Scene

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2024-25

FOOTBALL PREVIEW

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION FROM SUMMERVILLE COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

MT

2024

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H MYHORRYNEWS.COM FOOTBALL PREVIEW H

AUGUST 2024

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H MYHORRYNEWS.COM MYHORRYNEWS.COMFOOTBALL FOOTBALLPREVIEW PREVIEWH

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Staff Myrtle Beach Herald

© 2021 Waccamaw Publishers, Inc.

A supplement of The Horry Independent, Myrtle Beach Herald, North Strand News, Carolina Forest Chronicle and The Loris Scene.

Very creative. Catches the eye and is interesting!

PAGE 1

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Eric Sprott, Ian Taylor and Vicki Tymon The Journal, Seneca The Journal | THURSDAY, AUGUST 29, 2024

SECOND PLACE Eric Sprott, Ian Taylor and Vicki Tymon The Journal, Seneca

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Tim Leible, Cary Howard, Micah Green and Nich Pitts The Sumter Item Everything came together very well on this one.

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Staff and Contributors The Post and Courier Columbia/ Free Times

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Beaches 2024 Edition

The Coastal Observer guide to the season on Waccamaw Neck

POSTANDCOURIER.COM/FREE-TIMES

February 14-20, 2024

Amid debates over liquor liability and drunk driving, bartenders caught in the crossfire

BY HANNAH WADE hannahw@free-times.com

ILLUSTRATION BY DRE LOPEZ

Who are we? Look for Columbia’s identity in arts, business, risk

BY BEN CULBRETH Special to Free Times Who are we? It’s a loaded question.

There’s a long pause. Sometimes, they repeat it out loud to themselves. An audible exhale or a look away as their mind turns.

These are just a few reactions to a question that’s anything but straightforward: What is Columbia’s identity?

It’s a question, for many, that can conjure up comparisons to other cities like Charleston and (Yeah, THAT) Greenville.

It causes some hand-wringing and spit balling of trademark Columbia things: USC, the riverfront, being two hours from the mountains and the beach.

For a place so central on the state map, Columbia has struggled to define who it is. And the opinions on what shapes this place are as varied as the districts that dot its landscape.

The struggle to give Columbia an identity is evident in its taglines: “It’s Happening Now,” “Where Friendliness Flows,” Famously Hot” and “The Real Southern Hot Spot,” to name a few.

Much like those lines, the experiences that shape how people see Columbia — whether they live here or not — vary greatly. And they have changed over the years.

When asked, a few people with different backgrounds, careers and time spent in Columbia shared their thoughts. Each had their take, but one way or another, they all came around to saying the same thing.

It Isn’t Always Easy Here Some say a creative life is not for the faint of heart in Columbia. Those plugged into the arts community lament the insufficient investment in their work — and no central location for creators to create.

“Because there’s not a foundation to grow from, it’s kind of always a straight line going up and down,” said Caitlin Bright, Director of Artfields Presents in Lake City. She’s been an integral part of Columbia’s art, leading both 701 Center for Contemporary Art and Tapp’s Arts Center.

Without space for artists to create their work, community develops in pockets, never fully coming together.

This sense of disjointedness has been pervasive throughout Columbia at times. Each district and part of the city has its own identity. In some ways, that’s an asset. In others, it indicates Columbia’s battle with how to tell people what it is.

Pair the region’s slow growth (compared to its neighbors on either end of the state) and lack of unification can make it harder for visions to become reality. But just because it’s not easy doesn’t mean it’s not possible.

Not Everyone Will “Make It” in Columbia The idea of “making it” means something different to everyone. Maybe it’s fame or money. A record deal or a gallery show. A company that sells for a small fortune.

It’s possible for some people here. They’ve

COLUMBIA — Scan the bar. Keep an eye on people who seem down. And on people who are cheering on their favorite sports team. On people mourning or celebrating. Don’t serve an intoxicated person.

The consequences for South Carolina bartenders who don’t follow those rules to a T could be jail time, fines, suspension of the bar’s liquor license and lawsuits.

But alcohol isn’t served in a vacuum.

Even if it was, the state has loose requirements around how bartenders must be trained, and it has no clear legal definition of what it actually means to serve an intoxicated person.

And with the myriad ways that people do or don’t show signs of inebriation, bartenders are left to grapple with vague rules and off-the-cuff estimates about how much someone’s been served.

As the cost of the required liquor liability insurance policies for South Carolina establishments that serve alcohol after 5 p.m. skyrockets, those bartenders have found themselves at the center of debates Please see LIQUOR, Page B2

Inside MUSIC Renewable history: Columbia’s Five Points gets a musical renaissance, B3 PROVIDED BY FORREST CLONTS

ART

This year’s Artista Vista looks to display a wide swath of the neighborhood’s arts offerings.

Priced out of studio space, Columbia artists call for cultural plan to support industry, B4

built their dream. A few have lived in different cities, much larger than Columbia, but they came back and have made this place home. And it’s worked for them.

GiGi Hardin is one of those people. She came to Columbia to go to Benedict College. Then, she left. She lived in Charlotte, Brooklyn and Atlanta. Cities that pull people from Columbia. And rarely do they return.

LOCAL

Please see ARTS, Page B2

Our world of wonders

About this issue: Beaches is collection of articles by the Coastal Observer staff on subjects of interest to beachgoers. That includes ongoing activities and places to explore, along with some background about the area known as the Waccamaw Neck. Find more at coastalobserver.com and on Facebook.

WHAT DO YOU KNOW?

PAWLEYS ISLAND

Trivia and beyond

Room to roam

A quiz about history, culture and wildlife.

Page 17

The south end is growing as Pawleys Inlet migrates south, leaving wide open spaces to explore.

Second Front

WILDLIFE

Digging the dark

OUTDOORS

Local knowledge For kayak guide Mike Eady, it came naturally.

Page 28

Why it’s important to turn lights out for sea turtles.

Page 10

Photos by Charles Swenson/Coastal Observer

“Progress came with a price:”, B7

OPINION Opinion: What happens to us when we lose our sacred third spaces?, B9

NEWSLETTERS Subscribe to Food & Dining and Weekend: free-times.com/newsletters

Welcome Home!

PAWLEYS ISLAND | MURRELLS INLET | LITCHFIELD BEACH GARDEN CIT Y | GEORGETOWN | ANDREWS

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Janel Przybyla and Staff The Sumter Item Great photography and good mix of interesting content. Both interesting and informational. Well done.

MIXED MEDIA ILLUSTRATION

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THIRD PLACE Laura Allshouse Greenville Journal

BEAUX-ARTS The Westin Poinsett Hotel “The building of a welldesigned hotel has been known to exert a beneficial effect upon the architecture of a town as whole,” wrote architect William L. Stoddart in the February 1926 issue of Architectural Forum. The Poinsett’s Beaux-Arts-inspired elements were featured in that article. Blending classical details like cornices and entablature with modern lines, the first two levels of the Poinsett’s L-shaped exterior include prominent arched windows with wedge-shaped bricks (called voussoirs) and keystone detailing. Thousands of visitors a year still admire the symmetry, proportion, and decorative accents of this Main Street member of Historic Hotels of America.

ANNE VICTORIAN | J.M. Greer House

e charming homes in Greenville’s Hampton neighborhood were built in the late 1800s and s, when trolley cars ran only a block away. While c district boasts an array of classic home styles, on of well-preserved Victorian architecture is d in the region. The J.M. Greer (sometimes written use is a fine example of a Queen Anne Victorian. d by an asymmetrical facade and wraparound porch ative balusters, this home’s ornate trim and bay have been lovingly preserved by the current owners. m its gable roof is a turret with a conical metal top, a at further highlights the home’s Victorian flair.

O C TO BER 2 0 24 I

45

SECOND PLACE Jan Marvin The Daniel Island News

MIXED MEDIA ILLUSTRATION

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Borso Tall, Tony Bartelme and Hongyu Liu The Post and Courier The digital interactive piece along with the vivid photos kept me engaged throughout. Great job!

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Lou Bezjak, Joshua Boucher and Susan Merriam The State

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Staff The Post and Courier

What an entertaining and informational look at Charleston’s late night entertainment. It’s hard to believe that much movement happens after hours.

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THIRD PLACE Brian Garner The News & Reporter C hester C ount y ’s h ometown n ewspaper s inCe 1869 ONLINECHESTER.COM

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CYCS LOSE IN SHOOTOUT | PAGE A6

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VOLUME 148, NO. 24

Warhorses pound Bulldogs 47-0

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Helene causes headaches Jonathan Vickery Publisher jvickery@thepeoplesentinel.com

BY BRIAN GARNER/THE N&R

Chester County Administrator Brian Hester looks over the county emergency plans.

Hester on Helene

BY BILL MARION/SPECIAL TO THE N&R

Downed tress like this one on West End Street closed the road temporarily and also had the added effect of causing power outages, as the trees fell on powerlines.

H ELE NE

The story of a storm

T

BY N&R STAFF

he hurricane named Helene made her presence felt in Chester County over the weekend, leaving dangerously high river

waters, flooded yards and roadways, downed trees and massive power outages in her wake.

Emergency services began warning of the potential for damage on Tuesday when Helene was still a tropical storm. Locally, heavy rainfall and isolated flash flooding were expected to develop

BY BRIAN GARNER

BGARNER@ONLINECHESTER.COM

BY BRIAN GARNER er predictions indicate BGARNER@ONLINECHESTER.COM that ‘next time’ might be Chester County Admin- sooner than we think. istrator Brian Hester sat SEE HESTER/PAGE A4 down with The N&R for

late Wednesday night into Thursday morning. In anticipation of the inclement weather, high school sports events were altered, with Chester High School playing its game against Keenan (schedule for Friday) on Wednesday night.

SEE HELENE/PAGE A2

Chester County School District posts bond referendum tax impact info The Chester County School District has posted the information on how the proposed $227 million bond referendum

exclusive inter view What we did, an that was par tly a status what we learned, update and par tly an after action repor t and what we can a debrief on what the county can do better the do better next time. And weath-

will af fect taxpayers at vari- commercial personal. ous tax percentages, whether The taxpayer impact report they pay property tax at four% can be found on the CCSD (owner occupied residences,) website under the 2024 Bond six% (for non-owner occupied SEE IMPACT/PAGE A3 and vehicle) and 10.5% for

While the hot dog meal distribution was going on, City of Chester Mayor Carlos Williams, left and City Administrator Malik Whitaker provided The N&R with some updates on the city’s response to the storm.

A hot meal and a hello: City of Chester feeds citizens after the storm

BY BRIAN GARNER

City may slow things down (on streets)

BY TRAVIS JENKINS years and soon, they may have speed limit inside the Chester TJENKINS@ONLINECHESTER.COM no choice but to do so.

City limits and making it uniAt last week’s Chester City form.

There has been an ef for t to get motorists in the City Council meeting, there was SEE STREETS/PAGE A4 of Chester to slow down for a discussion of lowering the

BGARNER@ONLINECHESTER.COM

Sometimes, all it takes to make someone feel better about sitting in a house without power is a hot meal.

Sometimes it’s a ‘hello, how ar e you getting along?’ The City of Ches-

ter and some par tners provided both on Monday.

Ably helped by WalMar t supplying the hot dogs and KJ’s supplying the hot dog buns, and State Rep. Annie SEE CITY/PAGE A8

Expanded hours now at Chester Aquatics & Fitness Center its operating hours to include we anticipate only a minimal initiative offers Medicare recipFacility may offer Silver Sneakers program Thursdays.

This enhancement increase in expenses while pro- ients access to a wide network

H

urricane Helene devastated the East Coast, but Barnwell C o u n t y wa s s p a r e d m a j o r damage and fatalities.

The Category 4 storm hit Florida around 11 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 26 with 140 mph winds before moving through Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. Helene weakened as it made its way inland early Friday morning, Sept. 27, but still caused millions to be without power, toppled trees, washed out roads, blew off roofs, and soaked multiple states, even flooding some areas. At least 90 deaths are attributed to Helene, including six in Aiken County, but there are no reported injuries or deaths in Barnwell County, according to emergency management officials.

“It has been very comparable, if not worse than the ice storm in 2014,” said Barnwell County Emergency Management Director Roger Riley of the debris and power outages. “Our community has really come together to help one another.”

LOCAL IMPACT Helene brought trees down across Barnwell County. Some landed across roadways while others came down on homes and vehicles. Others knocked out See HELENE, 9A

Victoria Creech stands in the doorway of a bathroom in her Fellowship Road home as she looks at what used to be her son Caden's bedroom.

The bedroom was obliterated after Hurricane Helene brought several trees down on it.

Jonathan Vickery / Publisher

Grandparents' Game Night extra

Payne sentenced

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Travis Jenkins The News & Reporter

Great story of a corruption case, its background and outcome.

BREAKING NEWS REPORTING

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THIRD PLACE Jason Evans Courier Pickens County Courier Courier Courier Pickens County Pickens County’s onlyissue! locally owned MoreCounty than $100 in coupons and savings in this week’s Pickens and operated Pickens County’s newspaper only locally owned Pickens County and operated Pickens County’s www.yourpickenscounty.com Now on Facebook. Become a fan today!

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Since 2007, serving Central, Clemson, Dacusville, Easley, Liberty, Norris, Pickens, Pumpkintown, Six Mile and everything in between

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Since 2007, serving Central, Clemson, Dacusville, Easley, Liberty, Norris, Pickens, Pumpkintown, Six Mile and everything in between

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Search: Pickens County Courier Wednesday, September 7, 2011 • Vol. 5, No. 13 • Pickens, S.C. • (864) 878-6391

November Local officials municipal question CU races set Man killed in Pickensfootball shooting game

“

Wednesday, October 2, 2024 • Vol. 18, No. 17 • Pickens, S.C. • (864) 878-6391

Since 2007, ser ving Centr al, Clemson, Dacusville, Easley, Liber ty, Nor r is, Pickens, Pumpkintown, Six Mile and ever ything in between

wrath ”of the storm Hiring

I hope that people will see Kathryn and be inspired and

By Jason Evans encouraged.

Staff Reporter jevans@thepccourier.com — Karen Hicks PICKENS — A Liberty man died after a shooting in Pickens early Saturday morning.

Pickens County deputy coroner Heather Harrison identified the victim as 34-year-old Logan Nix, 34, of Ruhamah Road.

Wednesday, July 27, 2022 • Vol. 16, No. 7 • Pickens, S.C. • (864) 878-6391

According to a release from Upon their arrival, a man Deputies found a man lying Pickens County Sheriff ’s Of- exited the home and approached unresponsive inside the home, fice Chief Deputy Chuck James, deputies, James said.

James said. deputies responded to a disturThe man complied with The victim appeared to bance at 270 Allgood Bridge deputies’ commands and was have suffered an apparent gunRoad in Pickens at 12:38 a.m. immediately placed into investi- shot wound to the chest and Saturday. gative detention, he said. died at the scene, he said.

As deputies were respondRocky Nimmons/Courier ing, they Hicks, were told an active Kathryn frontofmiddle, is joined at the Walmart in Central by company representatives and altercation theReynolds residence Central firewithin chief Ed as part of a Walmart Heart event in her honor. and the sound of a possible gunshot, he said.

Walmart Heart honors Six Mile teen

Police say man exposed himself on Doodle Trail

Liberty onlyaltercation citywhenwith one discharged from emergency officials about See KILLEd on page 2A contested mayoral election recovery from the storm.

The other man was taken to the Pickens County Sheriff ’s By Jason Office forEvans additional questioning byReporter detectives, James said.

Staff jevans@thepccourier.com James said — theFiling preliminary COUNTY closed investigation suggested the two last Thursday at noon for — in Many resimen were a elections physical this COUNTY fall’s engaged municipal dents have the expressed outrage throughout county, so races on media thatNovember Clemson’s8 aresocial now set for the football game against Stanford elections.

University was of notCentral, postponed In the town three or canceled following devastown council seats aretheavailable, tation visited uponcouncil the area by with incumbent memHurricane Helene. bers Lynne O’Dell Chapman, have preTonyBut H.could Craiganyone and Harrison R. vented the Jr., game from for taking Holladay, running replace Saturday evening Memoelection against Blakeat Magnus, rial Stadium?

Joe N. Moss and Will Mullinax.

Pickens officials In the cityCounty of Easley, mayor and discussed Larrystaff Bagwell will the run matter unopduring a special calledasmeeting posed this November, will city of countymembers council, where council Brian counGarricil an update sonmembers (Ward 1),received Chris Mann (Ward 3) and Thomas H. Wright, Sr. (Ward 5).

Heroes

By Nicole Daughhetee Staff Reporter nicole@thepccourier.com

started to help people with chronic mental and physical conditions by making these individuals honorary Walmart drivers and giving them the ride of a lifetime in a Walmart truck.

Last Wednesday, August 31, Six Mile resident Kathryn Hicks was honored by the Walmart Heart program at the Walmart Super Center in Central.

“It was fun and exciting,” said Hicks. “I wasn’t nervous at all.”

After Kathryn was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) as a 13-monthold infant, her mother Karen Hicks said that the doctors told her and her husband Phillip to go home and enjoy their baby

At the meeting’s counRunning for a start, vacant Eatysley administrator RoperComsaid Combined Ken Utilities county council missioner seat chairman will be Chris Nick Bowers declared of emerCaldwell, Rustya state L. Jones and gency in Ross.

Pickens County around Jerry C. 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, Sept.

26.

In the city of Liberty, the McMaster had raceGov. to llHenry the recently vacated declared state emergency for mayor’s aof ceofwill be between South Carolina day. current mayor the proprevious tem Michael President Joe Biden declared Sheriff and Philip Rus Smith. on Sept.

27 that a state of Lavant emerDaniel D. Graybeal, gency existed South Carolina.

Padgett andin current councilClai2 0 2 2 will square manCounty Brian Councilwoman Petersen borne asked Liberty about the off forLinvill one at-large city state of emergency. council seat, while incumbent “There’s a statute that Fransays Joshua Harrison will face you control for the the ingress and cinecan G. Powers council’s Ward 3 seat. Eric Boughman will See GAME 3A4 run unopposed foron thepage Ward

READERS'

CHOICE AwARDS

CENTRAL — Before his passing in 1992, Walmart founder Sam Walton said of his truck-driving employees “When you’re out on the highway, you See RACES on page 2A can bet your bottom dollar the guy behind the wheel is a true fter weeks of professional. He’s not just drivBy Jason Evans anticipation, the ing a truck. He’s dedicated to Staff Reporter serving our stores and he’s an wait is nearly jevans@thepccourier.com ambassador to everything we over to find out the EASLEY — A man faces stand for out on the road.” winners of this year’s The Walmart Heart is a indecent exposure charges after Pickens County Courier police allege he exposed himself volunteer program that began in 1998 when a young boy with Readers’ Choice Awards. on the Doodle Trail.

Nicholas Chase Simmons, a congenital heart problem and To learn which local Nimmons/Courier 23, of Pickens, Rocky is charged with a short life expectancy, was businesses Courier Kathryn Hicks was made an honorary driver in Walmart pri- granted his wish to ride in one two counts of the indecent exporeaders selected as the vate fleet last Wednesday. She issure, pictured aboveto with her mother according a release from of the Walmart trucks.

See HICKS on page 2A Truck drivers for Walmart Karen Hicks and Walmart driverthe Antoine Sadler.

Pickens County Sheriff ’s Ofbest in the county at “There was a lot of wa- since that time,” Roper said.

By Jason Evans fice. Roper gave county counwhat they do, pick up cil members an overview on ter, a lot of wind, and then A usual day in the counAccording to the release, Staff Reporter next week’s edition, the county’s response and the storm showed up,” Roper ty’s 911 centers sees about 700 jevans@thepccourier.com theSee storm’s impactontopage county which will have our SImmONS EXPOSEd 3A said. “That’s basically the way calls, he said. departments during a special that it seemed here locally.”

“Just that Friday from COUNTY — Despite special keepsake Readers’ The county’s emergency 5 a.m. to midnight ... we had leaving much of Pickens called meeting Monday eveChoice Awards section operations center became ac- 3,100 calls,” Roper said.

County in a state of devasta- ning.

Courtesy Pickens County Sheriff’s Office filled with of with Although it rained on tive the county’s state of had opening There Chastain had alsoRoad been tion, the county had had no have the beenlist tasked ens with County’s principals Elemen- First responders throughout Pickens County declaration at 5 no major injuries in Pickens deaths attributable to Hurri- Thursday, “Most people in the emergency to theand damage caused winners plenty of by to say about the rst day of tary! With the start of any school helping many local residents in need due Thursday.

County attributed to Helene cane Helene on Monday, ac- county didn’t see significant p.m.

Hurricane Helene. school: helpful advertising!

“It’s been operating with day cording to county administra- impact until early morning on “It has been an amazing See SCHOOL on page 10A EASLEY — High historic Brice Field in Easley.

Friday,” he said. different levels of staffing See HELENE on page 2A tor Ken Roper. school students in both Pick- The winner of the game will ens and Easley have been receive the Food Fight Bowl COUNTY — The much- schools; Pickens County Career working around the clock trophy to display in their needed rain didn’t seem to and Technology Center (CTC); trying to raise funds for Pick- new trophy case at their new dampen the spirits of parents, and Liberty and Pickens High ens County Meals on Wheels school, while a halftime anteachers or the 16,000 plus stu- schools. over the past several weeks, nouncement will reveal which — 2011-2012 State Rep. dentsCOLUMBIA who began the In addition to the grand and the wait is almost over student body has raised the Davey Hiott of Pickens has been school year in Pickens County opening of these recently conto see which student body most money for Meals on named recipient of the John W. structed school buildings, McKon Tuesday. has raised the most money in Wheels, earning them the UlParrisAmong Agricultural Leadership the notable back issick and Liberty Elementary this year’s fourth annual Sam timate Food Fight Trophy.

Award by the S.C. Association to school highlights were the schools boasted freshly renoWyche Food Fight Bowl.

Grasshopper Mowof Agricultural Educators. opening of ve new schools vated facilities and major renoThe Food Fight Bowl, ers representatives will also The awardDistrict was presented in the School of Pick- vations continue at Edwards and played on the be on hand at Friday night’s by Tom Dobbins, di- Dacusville Middle schools. ensDr.County: Chastainstate Road Theannually Courier is gridgo- and many other breast cancer ironpink between BlueCancer Flame awareness game to present a pair ofhave zerector the Clemson Univerand of Dacusville Elementary Hereneed is what some ofupon?”

Pick- he asked. ing for the Breast initiatives to improve

By Jason Evans during and Green Month.

Wave, will off been devised since then. sity Extension Service, Awareness Inkick honor Roper talked about the “fruspagemay 10A thisthose Fridaywhose night atlives 8 p.m. the annual state conference of Staff Reporter of haveat While See theBOWL pink on ribbon By Jason Evans tration of Friday” at a recent staff jevans@thepccourier.com agricultural educators. been afseem like Staff Reporter call.

Hiott has been serving in fected by it’s been in “A lot of us couldn’t get up jevans@thepccourier.com COUNTY — While county the S.C. House of Representathis devuse for just staff hope Hurricane Helene here to work that wanted to do tives since 2004 andthat as chairman

By Jason Evansas long, it astating COUNTY — Pickens was a “200-year event” and some- things to help (but) were stuck of the House Agriculture, NatuStaff Reporter disease, we to see local businesses’ support was actuthing like won’t be seen again ourselves — that frustration,” he County officials are taking ral Resources and itEnvironmenjevans@thepccourier.com will accent essteps to grow the ranks of in Committee Pickens County, the storm said. for breast cancer awareness tally tal Affairs in recent our front ablished the county’s fire and EMS Roper said he should have brought lessons as well as years. Hiott is a with greatitsupporter EASLEY — Easley month, turn to pages 8b. page with onlyAna little services. stayed in town Thursday night. destruction.

Top: One of hundreds of downed of agricultural education and man died in a fire Friday pink every more thaneveA presstrees eventin was “We went into a state of County Pickens County blocks the FFA. HePickens was installed earlier Council ning. week of October.

20 years ago. at the 178 between Picka storm leader response and emergency, (and) I thought, ‘I’m held Friday morning U.S. Highway this yearreceived as the majority Pickens County deputy The pink ribbon has Although you can see Pickens County EmergenCourtesy photo get some CLEMSON —RepresentaClemson service be a time to will go home and recovery update from county ad-Thegoing ens and Liberty in the aftermath of of the House of coroner Harrison idenbeen synonymous breast waves of Heather pink every October FacilS.C. House davey Hiottup of here first cy Services Training University will hold rememof re ection andcome remembrance LIBERTY — with A 41-year Wednesday, Aug. 31,Vincent at 3:26 a.m., restRep. and back ministrator Ken Roper and EmerHurricane Helene’s path through tives and continues toa serve on tified the victim Defor years.

CancerasAwareness kick off the was honored he said. ity to officiallyUpstate brance service to mark the 10th asspewell asthing a callrecently oldcancer man lost his lifeNowadays, last week for andBreast the pronounced infor thecompassion, morning,’” gency Services staff during South Carolina. Bottom: the Agriculture, Natural Re- aPickens hart, 60,victim of E.was Terrace Drive, rarely accident think twice many don Heroes” anniversary of Sept.

11.Monday The said the Pat“There Zungoli, anoprofessor with John W.was Parris Agriculin people a work-related at the Month, dead at the scene,people Kelley said. coming back up county’s “Hiring cial meeting Pickens’ Jaycee Park was one sources andcalled Environmental Af- night.

Easley. whenDenim they pink ribbons, year-round.

Jason see Evans/Courier interfaith event titled Chris “Lookhelping coordinate the inevent.

Liberty plant on Mills Av- their Easley Anribbons autopsy Chief was performed here thing the morning. recruitment campaign. firstAward.

Councilman Lollistural saidLeadership areas Pickens that faced heavyEmergency Services fairs Committee.

Matthew having grown accustomed to Great stridesFire have been made County director Billy GibPickens of many County ing Back–Looking The service will includeI music, enue in Liberty. at Greenville Memorial HospiThat’s a mistake made.” it was “a good time toToreflect.” flooding as a result of Helene.

A recipient of Forward the HonorLittleton saidtothe call cancer, came in at pink ribbon and Coroner what it with respect breast son speaks to the press about thethe county’s new Hiring wardState Compassion, Peace and welcome ClemPickens County tal, with results available in six to “What have weHiott learned overHiott remarks Photos courtesy Doug Tate ary FFA Degree, is marriedfrom to the for5:31 p.m.

Friday. symbolizes. but with about 225,000 new Reconciliation” willdays be atthat 4 p.m. son Lisa Mayor Larry Kandy Kelley said that Lewis Ed- eightTwo weeks, Kelley and said. a ladder lastrecognized few we SeeAbernathy PREP on page 2A See HEROES on page 2A Heroes campaign. has alsothe been by theprobably mer Clamp, and they have engines BreastII of Cancer popping up each year invesin Sunday, Sept. 11, National at the Brooks and University President James First-year Easley High School principal Dr. Tim Mullis poses with ward Smith GoldenAwareCreek cases The accident is the under 700,000-member FFA two children. He is a member truck responded to scene, as nessin Month has killed been when cel- the United alone, there Center for thewith Performing Arts. F. Barker, and personal stories EHS head custodian Carl Livingston. Easley students arrived back Road Liberty was tigation byStates the Pickens County Organization the Honorary ebrated each year since 1985, isCoroner’s still workOf to be and done.the Liberty The eventFFA is free and open to American Degree.

See ce FIRE on page 2A See HIOTT on page 3A at school Tuesday for the final semester before moving to the new he fell into rollers at the mill. the public.

The accident occurred last Police Department.

See MARK on page 2A campus on Highway 8 in January.

Hurricane Helene leaves path of destruction through county

Just one more week!

A

vs.

2011 Sam Wyche

New school year starts Food Fight Bowl Hiott presented

this Friday night

Principals report on rst-

with top state ag day goings-on in district leadership honor

Think pink for Easley breast cancer Council reflects man new on Helene prep Pickens County officials launch awareness killed campaign to grow fire, EMS services

Clemson University, community to mark Sept. 11 anniversary

I N S

II N N SS

in fire

for more Worker dies at Liberty Denim

Clemson’s Swinney gives his take on Friday’s game Opinion, Page 4A

NINDEX dEEXX IIN D

• OPINION

4A

OPINION 4A ••• COMMUNITY 3A SPORTS 5A OBITUARIES 5A OBITUARIES 4A 6A ••• OPINION

SECOND PLACE Staff The Gaffney Ledger GET TO KNOW... Sarah Carroll

Occupation: Gaffney Ledger Advertising Representative/Daddy Joe’s Server Hometown: Gaffney, SC Family: Dad, Duane; Mom, Christy, Brother, Kamon, Sister-in-law, Shanna; Niece, Josclyn; Nephew, Antonio Education: Gaffney High School Favorite book: The Twilight Saga

Favorite movie: Pretty Woman Favorite song: Strawberry Wine Favorite entertainer: Adam Sandler Favorite Food: Seafood Hobbies: Hunting, Fishing & Painting Your Dream Car: Range Rover Cat person or dog person: Both Best Vacation: Holden Beach Place You’ve Always Wanted To Go: Hawaii

Favorite Pro Team: Carolina Panthers Favorite College Team: Georgia Goal I’ve yet to achieve: Finish College Childhood hero: My Mom & Dad Famous person I’d like to meet: Kid Rock What Cherokee County needs: Skating Rink & Pizza Inn back

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2024

HELENE LAYS WASTE TO CHEROKEE Power outages, trees down, gas shortages leave county residents struggling

By LARRY HILLIARD & SCOTT POWELL Ledger Staff Writers Call it the county’s version of the “perfect storm.”

A day after a drenching rain, Hurricane Helene brought menacing high winds that topped 60 mph to turn the county into a disaster area — causing unprecedented damage, with countless downed old and stately trees, many, many road closures and leaving nearly all of the county’s 55,000 residents without power a day after the catastrophic storm passed.

Even two days after the historic storm, county officials had all eyes on the Broad River, which was expected to rise more than 20 feet over its normal depth, forcing the evacuation of residents near the water, including those living on Peeler Road, Ford Road and Wolf Den Lane.

As of Sunday, 90% of county residents were still waiting for their power to come back on. Those residents were in the county with electrical service from Duke Power, Broad River Electric, York Electric Coop and Lockhart Power.

The customers of the Board of Public Works were much more fortunate — as of Sunday morning, only about 400 of the 10,000 customers were still without power. It will be several days before power is restored to all BPW customers.

Crews replaced 22 power poles that were broken by falling heavy limbs. Fifteen more broken poles were discovered Saturday night. At the height of the storm, 12 of the Board’s 15 circuits were out, leaving about 7,000 to 8,000 customers without power.

Crews began assessing the damage at 4 a.m. and started repairs a few hours later after the high winds, which gusted as high as 60 to 70 mph quieted.

“It was the worst I’ve seen since I’ve been here,” Board of Public Works General Manager Donnie Hardin said.

Hardin explained it was “all hands on deck,” with 35 workers, including those in the water and sewer departments doing their part by clearing trees so the electrical department workers could get to the poles.

Hardin thanked Chick-fil-A and Harold’s restaurant for providing food to his employees who were restoring power nearly around the clock.

County officials took the unique step of declaring a state of emergency Friday evening.

The county set up distribution sites for residents without food and water, and urged residents to call 864-487-2477 for the county public works or 864469-2844 if the tree is on a state road for the SCDOT. Helene made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane in Florida Thursday.

There were 18,801 people in Cherokee County without power Friday morning. Nearly 1.25 million in power outages were reported across South Carolina, according to figures from the state’s Office of Regulatory Staff.

Hurricane Helene was a massive storm and the most destructive one for the Broad River Electric service area since Hurricane Hugo back in 1989.

As of Sunday morning, 17,000 Broad River Elec-

Scenes like this were common across Cherokee County as residents came together to clear roads from fallen trees like this one across Whispering Pines Road, where Bas Wray cuts limbs on a huge oak tree.

tric members remained without power.

Nearly 18,000 Duke Energy line workers and support workers spent the weekend assessing damage and working to restore power.

The hurricane caused extensive damage to Duke Energy power equipment and widespread outages.

Utility company representatives were unable to provide an exact timetable on when businesses and family homes would have their power back. They indicated it might be as late as midweek.

“This storm has caused significant and perhaps historic damage to the Duke Energy System in counties like Greenville, Spartanburg and Anderson,” Duke Energy President Mike Callahan said in a press conference Friday afternoon.

All elective surgery procedures at Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System hospitals were cancelled Friday. The hospital’s immediate care centers, Medical Group of the Carolinas practices, Gibbs Cancer Center locations and outpatient imaging and lab services were all closed Friday.

Several area gas stations such as Quik Trip and Pilot were closed all day Friday.

When some stations finally opened late Friday afternoon, long lines caused Cherokee County residents to wait as long as an hour well after dark to fill up their vehicles. Several customers filled multiple tanks with gasoline for generators and other alternative power sources.

Interim Cherokee County superintendent Dr. Thomas White informed all staff not to report to school Friday due to downed trees, flooding and loss of power. All schools are closed Monday and Tuesday while Gaffney’s football game was cancelled Monday.

Traffic on Baker Boulevard was bumper to bumper over the weekend as residents waited in line at the restaurants that were open.

Limestone University Hines Center was powered by a generator until power is restored on campus.

Students were allowed to use all residential hall entrances Saturday morning after access was restricted the previous night for security reasons.

“While some areas have been restored, we are aware that some portions of the campus are still without electrical service,” Limestone officials said in a written statement. “We are communicating with the local utility company regarding the remaining outages.”

Due to the impact of Hurricane Helene, Limestone University’s home football game against Emory & Henry was played Sunday at 1 p.m. instead of Saturday. Limestone had no classes Monday.

Limestone officials announced that the football game was postponed, in part, to allow for debris cleanup on Friday afternoon and throughout Saturday in order to make the game and field conditions safe for the respective teams and fans.

A note from the publisher....

Due to some production issues, especially no internet, today’s paper is somewhat abbreviated and might look a little different. Hopefully we will be back to normal by Wednesday. We encourage everyone to have

Black Cyan Magenta Yellow

BREAKING NEWS REPORTING 1

$

per copy

DIVISION E

WEDNESDAY • AUGUST 28, 2024

Vol. No. 142-Pub. No. 306000

Quick Read PTC introduces 'Blaze,' new Phoenix mascot

FIRST PLACE

Laurens, South Carolina

No. 9-12 Pages

Musgrove ablaze...

As students arrived recently for the first day of fall classes, Piedmont Technical College (PTC) President Dr. Hope E. Rivers revealed the name of the new PTC mascot: Blaze the Phoenix.

“Blaze isn’t just a name; it’s a powerful symbol of action each of us can take as a Phoenix,” said Rivers as she stood next to the mascot outside the Student Center on the Greenwood campus. “Blaze represents the spirit of renewal and transformation that defines the student journey.”

Blaze made its first visit to PTC’s Laurens County Campus this past Thursday.

The decision to introduce a new mascot, the PTC Phoenix, was influenced by overwhelming support from the college community. A survey of faculty, staff and students showed that 90% of respondents believed PTC should have a mascot.

The concept of the PTC Phoenix mascot was first shared with students at Spring Activities Day. The Phoenix was chosen because it is a symbol of inspiration and renewal that fits with the college’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence. It also aligns with PTC’s broader efforts to transform lives, strengthen communities and enhance the overall student experience.

Judith Brown Laurens County Advertiser

Weather

Happenings Wednesday, Aug. 28: Writers Workshop (ages 18+), Clinton Library, 11:30 a.m.

Thursday, Aug. 29: Summer Blood Drive, Laurens CPW, 8 a.m.noon.

Thursday, Aug. 29: Stay & Play games (ages 11-17), Laurens Library, 1 p.m.

Thursday,Aug. 29: College football – PC at Mercer, 7 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 30: Finally Friday, The Flashbacks, Laurens Historic Square, 6:30 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 30: Prep football – Laurens at Clinton, 7:30 p.m.; Wardlaw at Laurens Academy, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 31: Downtown Farmers Market, Laurens Square, 8 a.m.-noon Saturday,Aug. 31: Comin’Home to Cross Hill Festival, Cross Hill, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Monday: Happy Labor Day!

BookerMaxwell busy with campaign

By John Clayton Editor

THREATENING FLAMES — Smoke rises from adjacent buildings on Musgrove Street as firefighters with the Laurens Fire Department use its ladder truck to assist Clinton Fire Department in battling a fire at Clinton House of Pizza. Firefighters from numerous districts arrived to help contain the fire’s spread and were expected to remain on the scene overnight.

Tuesday afternoon fire destroys House of Pizza Clinton, adjacent section of Musgrove Street

By Judith Brown Staff Writer Shortly before 5 p.m. firefighters from Clinton Fire Department were called to House of Pizza Clinton on Musgrove Street where the back of the historic building was already engulfed in flames.

Within a short time firefighters from the City of Laurens, Joanna, Sandy Springs and many others were on scene working to keep the fire from spreading to adjacent buildings.

“Just about everybody in Laurens County has a truck over there,” said a firefighter on standby at Station 21. “Most of the stations in the

Laurens County Fire Service have people over there helping.”

Clinton City Manager Tom Brooks said that it had been verified to him that everyone was out safely from the restaurant owned and operated for years by Mo and Narmeen Farhan.

Clinton Main Street Director Jim Spry said he knew that staff and customers had gotten out safely from nearby businesses, but he was concerned about the other buildings on Musgrove.

“The neighboring buildings are truly adjacent and most of them are 100-year-old-plus with wood framing, so they’ll all be at risk," Spry said, adding that his concern was for

all of the businesses, in addition to his wife’s shop, Aspen and Figs.

Clinton Mayor Randy Randall had been in Newberry at a CNNGA meeting when he heard about the fire. As he returned to Clinton, he learned that the fire had spread to several other buildings, including Aspen and Figs, Kingdom Hall and MacMillan Eye Care were involved. Smoke was in the Hoyt Hanvey building.

“This is a terrible fire for Downtown Clinton, and we are thankful for our police and fire departments. They’ve gotten so much help from Laurens, Whitmire, Fountain Inn Simpsonville and, I think, most of the Laurens County

stations. Plus help from the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office and the state fire marshal is here.”

Firefighters were hooking up hoses to keep the fire from Freshens, Presbyterian College’s Cafe.

The Joanna and Fountain Inn and Laurens trucks have been spraying the roofs of these buildings trying to prevent more buildings from burning, Randall said, and about 8 p.m. the entire front wall of House of Pizza fell into Musgrove Street, barely missing a few people who scrambled to get out of the way.

“CNNGA cut off gas valves for ■ See Fire, page 8A

Council to show off Waterloo Recreation Building

While Vice-President Kamala Harris was accepting her party’s nomination for President of the U.S., Laurens native Bre BookerMaxwell was pulling triple duty at the Democratic National Convention this past week in Bre BookerChicago.

Maxwell In addition to serving as a delegate on the convention floor representing South Carolina, BookerMaxwell is a member of the Democratic National Committee and served as programming director for behind-the-scenes meetings.

“I put on the Rural Council meeting and a small business meeting,” she said. “I also had an extra panel where we talked about how we can make sure Democrats win in rural American in 2024.”

Kentucky Gov. Andy Brashear and Gwen Walz, the wife of vice-presidential nominee Tim Walz, were among the speakers at Booker-Maxwell’s forums.

“We did have some heavy hitters,” she said. “One of my major talking points is that we may not be able to win at all (in rural America), but as long as we can drive the numbers up and cut into (Republican) margins, that’s a big help.”

After spending a few days at home in Columbia, Booker-Maxwell said she will be taking her message for rural America on the road – she just isn’t sure where quite yet.

Booker-Maxwell was one of two Laurens natives and Laurens District High graduates to play roles in both the administration of President Joe Biden and Harris and in the DNC. Booker-Maxwell and former County Councilman Garrett McDaniel worked in the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) before resigning earlier this year.

She said the atmosphere at the convention was electric and something she will not forget – for a number of rea-

The social media entries put this one over the top for me. I was impressed with the photo telling the story on such a quick turnaround.

It’s a daunting task to report on a fire that’s still burning as you’re off to press.

Index

By Judith Brown Staff Writer

The Waterloo Town Council is inviting the community to a ribbon cutting for the Waterloo Recreation Building this Friday morning.

The Aug. 30 celebration with a ribbon cutting and light refreshments is set for 9 a.m. and Mayor Barbara Smith said the Waterloo Town Council is

hoping plenty of people from the community will come out to see the long-anticipated renovations.

Town council had plans to begin renovations to the small building behind Waterloo Town Hall several years ago, but when Covid-19 hit, everything got put on the back burner, Smith said.

Now with the help of grants from the Municipal

Association of South Carolina and Laurens County’s American Rescue Plan funding, the work is finally complete.

“We think it will be a great asset to the community,” Smith said. “It’s got new appliances in the kitchen, and it’s been insulated and has sheetrock and heat. It has restrooms and is handicapped accessible now.”

Smith said the addition of a

deck will be great for groups who would like indoor and outdoor space.

“It will be good for children’s birthday parties because they can also go from the building to the playground,” Smith said.

The Waterloo Recreation Building is located behind Town Hall and next to the park, Smith said, and everyone is welcome.

■ See Campaign, page 8A

BREAKING NEWS REPORTING

DIVISION D

THIRD PLACE Staff Charleston City Paper

SECOND PLACE

Lauren Leibman, Janet Morgan and Nic Napier The Post and Courier Myrtle Beach/Georgetown Times

BREAKING NEWS REPORTING

DIVISION D

FIRST PLACE

Charles D. Perry & Dylan Ortuno The Post and Courier Myrtle Beach/Georgetown Times Well-written, and excellent work continuing to follow-up and seek out background.

BREAKING NEWS REPORTING

DIVISIONS B & C COMBINED

THIRD PLACE Andrew Dys The Herald

SECOND PLACE Bianca Moorman Aiken Standard

BREAKING NEWS REPORTING

DIVISIONS B & C COMBINED

FIRST PLACE

Terri Richardson & Emalyn Muzzy The Sun News

This story does a great job hitting major points from getting history on her husband’s past infractions and a warning to her sister.

BREAKING NEWS REPORTING

DIVISION A

THIRD PLACE

Noah Feit and Joseph Bustos The State

SECOND PLACE

Skylar Laird South Carolina Daily Gazette

BREAKING NEWS REPORTING

DIVISION A

FIRST PLACE

Jocelyn Grzeszczak and T. Michael Boddie The Post and Courier Proof that in the face of significant breaking news, there’s always time and a need for from-the-heart storytelling. Excellent story and coverage.

ENTERPRISE REPORTING

DIVISION F

SECOND PLACE

THIRD PLACE

Matt Bise The Berkeley Independent

Hawks cage Cougars 41-6,

SPORTS, B2 VOLUME 148, NO. 20

Jonathan Vickery The People-Sentinel What's a penny worth? Attend one of the public meetings on Capital Projects Sales Tax to find out.

Page A3

ENTRY FORM, PAGE B5

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2024

2 SECTIONS / 20 PAGES / $1

Residents frustrated after some P.O. boxes locked, mail returned without warning Jonathan Vickery Publisher jvickery@thepeoplesentinel.com

Volunteers and town officials joined together to distribute water purchased by the Town of Williston during Labor Day water outages. Pictured are Councilman Eric Moody, Pastor Jaime Wootten, Alexandra Whitbeck / Reporter Recreation Chairman Joe Welch, and volunteers Allen and Alex Searson.

Water’s out in Williston

Community sprung into action over Labor Day water outages Alexandra Whitbeck Reporter reporter@thepeoplesentinel.com

A routine trip to the post office to check mail turned into a frustrating situation for some residents and businesses who found their boxes locked.

Holders of over 100 P.O. boxes at the Barnwell Post Office had their boxes locked and mail returned. The post office said they did not pay their annual fee, but the box holders said they never got invoices or a follow-up warning letter. They were told they would have to be issued a new box number and have their mail forwarded, according to box holders who contacted The People-Sentinel.

"I've had my P.O. box for 63 years. They let me know I’d have to purchase a new one, a new number, and fill out a change of address form. It's very frustrating," said Vera Bodiford.

Bodiford and other impacted box holders who contacted The People-Sentinel said they never received a bill to let them know their payment was due. They also never got a warning letter that their box would be cut off.

"I've had my box for 56 years and never missed a payment.

They didn’t give me a notice the payment was due and sure didn’t give me notice it was going to be closed," said Libbus Sanders.

P.O. boxes are a lifeline for many people, particularly senior citizens who don't have access to the internet to receive and pay bills. " M y m o m i s 8 5 ye a r s o l d and doesn’t do the internet," said Sanders' daughter, Lisa Firmender, of how her mother relies on the mail she receives to her post office box.

Dale Brady said the box his family has had since 1988 was impacted. "It would appear that this is the result of a failure to send out billing notices to these box holders in a timely fashion," he said.

Residents weren't the only people impacted. Some businesses, who rely on boxes to receive their bills and checks, were also impacted.

"There are many businesses here in the City of Barnwell who have had their businesses for well over 40-50 years and have See BOXES, 8A

W

illiston residents were without water or with low water pressure throughout Labor Day weekend after three breaks in main lines. A quick response by town officials and crews brought repairs by Monday in what was being called an “an emergency situation,” by Mayor Brett Williams.

The breaks began on Friday, August 30 after the motor failed on the pump at the Schuler Street well, “which led to an increase in pressure within the waterlines, causing several major breaks in the system,” said Mayor Williams.

When the Schuler Street well’s motor failed, the back up well on Elko Street kicked on. Air remaining in the lines from the

Part of road buckled at the intersection of Elko St. and Springfield Rd. as a result of consecutive main water line breaks. Alexandra Whitbeck / Reporter stalling of the broken motor caused the ruptures.

Breaks occurred at the intersection of Elko Street and Springfield Road, on western end of Main Street, and on Wactor Street. Numerous service lines, such as one on Merchant Street

behind apartment buildings, also broke as a result.

Residents traveling near the intersection of Elko Street and Springfield Road can see cones marking off an area where the See WATER, 10A

Jonathan Vickery / Publisher

A number of P.O. box holders at the Barnwell Post Office said they were surprised to learn their boxes were closed and mail returned last week due to non-payment. They said they never got a bill.

Superintendent addresses consolidation misinformation Jonathan Vickery

thought this would provide an Stapleton responded to clarify the

ENTERPRISE REPORTING

DIVISION F

FIRST PLACE

Travis Jenkins The News & Reporter

The work compiling information for this article made excellent use of the various tools afforded to the media.

ENTERPRISE REPORTING

DIVISION E

THIRD PLACE Cody Sossamon The Gaffney Ledger HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

SEE PAGES 1B-4B

A newspaper in all that the word implies, devoted to the best interests of the people of Cherokee County.

GAFFNEY, S.C.

www.gaffneyledger.com

WEDNESDAY, MAY 8, 2024

75 CENTS

IS IT TIME TO BREAK THE PIGGY BANK? Government coffers are surprisingly full

YEAR

FUND BALANCE AMOUNT

MILLAGE RATES

CHEROKEE COUNTY 2015

$11,422,304

2016

$24,664,327*

2017

$24,735,237

2018

$24,446,079

2019

$22,607,884

95.7

2020

$19,238,828

95.7

2021

$19,708,895

98.4

2022

$19,638,866

98.7

$23,064,226

98.7

2023

It’s good advice to save money for a rainy day, but some of our local governments are apparently saving for a flood.

There has been much conjecture about the fund balances (or savings accounts in layman’s terms) of the various governmental entities in Cherokee County. To put an accurate, verified amount to the unassigned fund balances of each entity, The Gaffney Ledger researched the audits. An unassigned fund balance can be used at the entity’s discretion.

As you can see from the list at right, the fund balances for the county and school district would make Scrooge McDuck green with envy. Those for the city and BPW are nothing to sneeze at. Tax increases, higher than projected revenues, lower than expected expenses and in the county’s case, sale of assets (county nursing home), have contributed to the increases.

For instance, the school district has raised taxes for the past five years with last year’s increase of 13.5 mills was one of the highest on record.

Cherokee County schools had no tax increases from 2008-2018. School taxes have increased 12% since 2019.

The current millage rate is 231.8 mills. which includes 30 mills for school bonds.

School trustees voted unanimously for a 13.5 mill tax increase to balance a $90,996,607 budget for the 2023-24 school year. The spending plan represented a $7.5 million, or 9%, increase over the $83.4 million budget for the 2022-2023 school year.

For the past two years, school district tax revenues have come in higher than projected in estimates provided by Chero-

Four-day work week ‘doesn’t work’

By LARRY HILLIARD Ledger Staff Writer larry@gaffneyledger.com

was out due to illness.

Taylor also said even though some employees were working longer days that the hours of operation of the city

2015

$10,481,773

2016

$10,461,017

2017

$12,694,106

2018

$14,466,293

2019

$16,086,733

206.3

2020

$18,628,643

209.3

2021

$18,292,471

215.5

2022

$22,876,509

217.2

2023

$33,402,944

231.8

The district’s financial statement ending January 31, 2024 showed an increase in the fund balance for the fiscal year 2023-24 of $9 million.

BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS 2019

$17,852,360

2020

$18,049,318

2021

$14,574,217

2022

$7,965,024

2023

$5,072,500

2017

$2,594,293

2018

$3,210,530

2019

$3,450,959

122.3

2020

$4,479,141

122.3

2021

$4,572,361

122.3

2022

$5,466,835

113.9

2023

$4,501,437

122.9

CITY OF GAFFNEY

TOWN OF BLACKSBURG 2019

$521,241

2020

$520,806

2021

$849,314

2022

$939,900

2023

Auditor is still working on it.

Teen sentenced to 25 years in murder case

By ABBIE SOSSAMON Ledger News Editor abbie@gaffneyledger.com

Pawleys Island, South Carolina ~ August 15, 2024

partment of Juvenile Justice since January 5, 2023.

The deadly shooting occurred around 11:30 p.m. on January 4, 2023, at the Zip-

$1.50

Pawleys resident sues developer over drainage

By Charles Swenson COASTAL OBSERVER

A Pawleys Island woman has filed suit against the country’s largest home builder saying its development next to her home in Parkersville caused flooding on her property that threatens that home.

Deborah Greggs said in a suit filed in Circuit Court that her problems began when D.R. Horton Inc. started its Hammock Cove development in 2019. There are two stormwater retention ponds near her property.

She “has experienced excessive water run-off onto her property and Plaintiff’s property can no longer drain

properly,” according to the suit.

Greggs has tried for years to get the developer and Georgetown County to fix the problems at the home that she started building in 1986.

“Nobody has done anything,” she said.

Her suit comes as Georgetown County is due to hold a public hearing Aug. 21 on the stormwater permit for the Sweet Grass West development adjacent to Hammock Cove. Residents there said the proposed development will exacerbate their drainage problems in Hammock Cove.

The county approved plans for the 86-lot Hammock See “Suit,” Page 4

Charles Swenson/Coastal Observer

The stormwater pond next to the Greggs home.

NORTH LITCHFIELD

SALES TAX

Appeals court affirms order to restore dune

County kicks off public meetings to explain plan for extra 2 cents

COASTAL OBSERVER

CHEROKEE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT

kee County officials.

The large drops in the BPW’s fund balance are due to significant investments in infrastructure: sewer to Sunny Slope, acquisition of Macedonia Water, water and sewer plant facility upgrades, etc.

“While we have multiple projects currently ongoing, the Board has not allocated those funds to any particular project,” Assistant General Manager Steve Bratton said. “In our business we never know when we may need to tap into our reserves for a repair or an extension.

Furthermore, we have tended to use our fund balance as rate stabilization funds to avoid rate increases in the event of a shortfall.”

BPW last raised rates in October, 2022.

The City of Gaffney uses its fund balance to operate the city in the months when cash flow becomes an issue.

“In August, September and October our cash flow is reduced as revenue from taxes and other sources slows down,” Administrator James Taylor said. “We also like to keep about $2 million in reserve for emergencies.”

Blacksburg will use $75,384 from reserves to balance the budget for 2024-2025.

Town administrator Shane Childers said any other fund balance are financial resources in place for emergencies, future capital expenditures, and any future needs in the budget.

As used in relation to property tax, 1 mill is equal to $1 in property tax, which is levied per $1,000 of a property’s determined taxable value.

The county administrator and school superintendent were asked to provide information on their fund balances but had not responded by press time. Their responses will be included in future editions of The Gaffney Ledger.

Charles Swenson Coastal Observer

Vol. XLIII No. 10

By Charles Swenson

*The large increase from 2015 to 2016 is due to the sale of Peachtree Centre

By CODY SOSSAMON Ledger Publisher cody@gaffneyledger.com

SECOND PLACE COASTAL OBSERVER

Owners of an oceanfront lot at North Litchfield must repair the dune they demolished in order to build a new house, following a ruling from the state Court of Appeals.

The three-judge panel upheld a decision from Georgetown County’s master in equity, Joe Crosby, that the work done in 2020 violated a deed restriction.

The panel reversed Crosby’s ruling that the deed restrictions could not be enforced by the neighbors.

The owners, Robert and Holly McManus, have asked for a rehearing.

The couple, as Shoestring Retreat LLC, bought the lot on Summertime Lane in 2019 after the previous owner, Katherine Haun, applied to Georgetown County for permission to subdivide the property. She submitted a form saying there were no deed restrictions that prohibited the subdivision.

The neighbors appealed the zoning staff’s approval of the subdivision to the Planning Commission. The neighbors, members of the Salley family, are part of MAC Coastal Properties, which owns an adjacent lot, said deed restrictions placed on the property in the 1950s prevented the subdivision.

The McManuses, through their attorney, argued that the restrictions no longer applied because the Salley family had waived them in the 1970s to subdivide their own property, which created the lot that See “Dune,” Page 3

By Charles Swenson COASTAL OBSERVER

Charles Swenson/Coastal Observer

A loggerhead hatchling crosses Springs Avenue. Ten others died on the road.

ENVIRONMENT | Lights lead hatchlings astray

Why did the turtle cross the road?

Answer is no joke to nest monitors

By Charles Swenson COASTAL OBSERVER

Fueled by the yolk from its egg and millions of years of instinct, a loggerhead sea turtle hatchling scrambled across the wet pavement on Springs Avenue.

It should have been heading toward the ocean. Instead, it climbed a gravel parking space on the edge of Pawleys Creek.

Blocked by landscape timbers, it turned back to the road, skirted a stormwater drain and swam briefly through the water pooled on the side of the road.

“There’s a name for it. DNR calls it disorientation,” said Rick Scott, referring to the state Department of Natural Re-

TROPICAL STORM

Even with reduced rain,

A jogger stops to snap a picture of the stray hatchling.

sources.

He heads the sea turtle monitoring group SCUTE, which operates with permits from the agency.

The cause was outdoor lighting. The result was evident on Springs Avenue last week.

After the hatchling emerged from the stormwater, the wind from Tropical Storm Debby caught it and flipped it on its back. The turtle righted itself and kept crawling.

The turtle was lucky. Ten other hatchlings from a nest that contained 142 eggs lay dead on the road.

Before the same fate befell the last hatchling, Scott arrived, put on rubber gloves and See “Turtles,” Page 4

Walt Ackerman knows how he plans to vote on two sales tax referendum questions that will be on November’s ballot.

He’s doing his best not to let the public know.

The first of nine meetings planned to explain the sale tax proposals between now and Election Day drew four voters to the auditorium at the former Choppee High School this week. There were also six county officials in the audience.

Under state law, public resources cannot be used to advocate for or against the ballot initiatives. They can be used to inform the public, which is what Ackerman, the county’s director of Administrative Services, will do over the next two months at venues around the county.

Meetings will be held Aug. 21 at the Murrells Inlet Community Center and Aug. 26 at the Waccamaw Library.

A 1-cent local option sales tax is proposed to offset a portion of the tax the county now collects on land, buildings and vehicles. If approved, it will stay in place until rescinded through another referendum.

A 1-cent capital projects sales tax will raise about $74 million over eight years for 22 infrastructure projects. If there is additional revenue after those projects are completed, it will be used for 19 contingency projects, all of which will be listed in order of priority on the ballot.

See “Sales tax,” Page 3

ENTERPRISE REPORTING

DIVISION E

FIRST PLACE

Barbara Ball The Voice of Fairfield County Excellent story… it got my attention quickly with the topic and made me feel for the property owner. Using his quotes early is good.

ENTERPRISE REPORTING

DIVISION D

THIRD PLACE

Nicole Ziege The Post and Courier Myrtle Beach/Georgetown Times

SECOND PLACE Delayna Earley The Island News

ENTERPRISE REPORTING

DIVISION D

FIRST PLACE

Herb Frazier Charleston City Paper Informative article on how looking to Amsterdam for answers to flooding can create beneficial policies and infrastructure.

ENTERPRISE REPORTING

DIVISION C

THIRD PLACE Bob Sloan Morning News

SECOND PLACE Gene Zaleski The Times and Democrat

ENTERPRISE REPORTING

DIVISION C

FIRST PLACE

Emmy Ribero Morning News

Strong enterprise reporting — such as this — consistently takes into account the direct impact the story’s contents have or could have on the reader. Nice work.

ENTERPRISE REPORTING

DIVISION B

THIRD PLACE Sebastian Lee The Island Packet

SECOND PLACE David Weissman The Sun News

ENTERPRISE REPORTING

DIVISION B

FIRST PLACE

Sarah Haselhorst (1993-2024)

The Island Packet The reporter made rising sea levels personal by introducing readers to S.C. places and people who are struggling daily with this global challenge.

ENTERPRISE REPORTING

DIVISION A

THIRD PLACE Kailey Cota The Post and Courier

SECOND PLACE

Clare Fieseler and Hongyu Liu The Post and Courier

ENTERPRISE REPORTING

DIVISION A

FIRST PLACE

Kenna Coe The Post and Courier

Great public service restaurants in the most unsuspecting of places. Solid beat coverage done by someone who obviously owns the beat. Great enterprise storytelling.

REPORTING-IN-DEPTH

DIVISION G

THIRD PLACE Hollie Moore Charleston Regional Business Journal

SECOND PLACE

Mary Margaret Flook & Jeff Robinson

The Baptist Courier

REPORTING-IN-DEPTH

DIVISION G

FIRST PLACE

Rick Brundrett S.C. Policy Council/The Nerve What good investigative journalism looks like.

REPORTING-IN-DEPTH

DIVISION F

THIRD PLACE Thomas Hyslip Tega Cay Sun

SECOND PLACE Brian Garner The News & Reporter

REPORTING-IN-DEPTH

DIVISION F

FIRST PLACE

Elijah de Castro The People-Sentinel

Page 8A

• Wedne

sday, Aug

‘I’m gonn ust 21, 20

24 • The

People-S

entinel

How Barn a f i g h t for m navigatin well & Allenda y patients’: l g Americ a’s Rural e counties are Healthca re Crisis K

Elijah de Report fo Castro r America elijah@the peoplesen tinel.com

athy C remembe o r l e y rs the da t y Southern h a t B a r n w e l l ’s Pa lmetto H closed. ospital It wee kd ay was an ordina ry She and in Ja nu ar y 20 16 he given 48 r colleagues we . ho re hospital urs’ notice that th would sto e pa tie nt s. Sh oc p serving k co ns um ed Co rle qu ic kl y y an d th hospital sta e of worki ff. After 26 year ng along s Kathy health ca side loca Corley, a re ye ar ly Ch workers — withl Hospital, rem former nurse at Ba embe rnwe ris losing yo tm as pa and the ur best fri rs the day the ho ll’s Southern Palm rt ie s oc spital clo end." in betwee casional cookou sed. "It wa etto t Elijah de s like Th Ye t, de sp Castro / had grow n — the hospita Report for e former ite America Southe of Corley’ n to be the cent l small rural ho th is ne ed , in su hospital er be en spitals ha re rs ar e s life. closed in rn Palmetto Hosp cl os in g re sp on si ve for 50 “It was Januar y 20 ital sits ab at lik pe bl e pa andoned a ra pi d 16. rcent of e losing ce since be st fri en “S up po off Reynold ta th th yo ke e e ur lo be n rt sses focu in g pr og gi th e 21 st by ru ra s Road in Photo Cou a nu rs e d, ” sa id Co rle l ho se ce nt ur y. nning of at ri sk ra rtesy: Adr Barnwell. y, 20 05 of 50 ye ian Crawfo Be twee n of cl os in sp ita ls health d on addressing m s passed th The rd / High an se ttl ed ar d s pr e Prov 20 19 , Altitude Dro the w ho g. “T care ivat in ru ra l ne Service in 19 90 Ba rn w el ho sp ita ls ac ro 15 0 ru ra l th e one insurance plan he living in th needs of those Fund, a $135 bi ider Relief th af te r w ss A m er s l lli e is es clo ar on to ru stu e se th ra att ba ff So d, at l empt or large ur bu do th at ,” t now it doesn’ ban hosp ki ng in in Sout four of which ic a the problem ar e ca us in g W uth Carolina is areas of pr ov ck st op he al th were Mill ,” id cr husband, h Ca itals. Her er, CHQP said Harold “Cilson said in a sta itical,” unco er s by pr ev en ca re infuriate Co rle y sa id . “I t Ed Corle to a re po rolina, accordin mpensate s me to R presiden a volunt y, was als t tin g so ampaign tement. g that he th ee d losses. o for Hea rt by th e Ce nt er enou alth plan doesn’ t. “If not and do donations have allowed local “You’ve r at the hospita This in m e of fic e w or ink that lthcare Qu pr ke r in an gh to su l. be su ra nc pport th t pay policy decis not impact my Low Country oviders like th os e ye en there for al Payment Reform ality and then e tells a do e co m pa ny no ar th Health Ca io ns Sy .” st w em care of pa s, yo u’ ve ta ke l Ev en m or e al (CHQPR). lot of e hospital is lo care, C l y b ctor that re have (L sin ar n CHQ tie he additiona CH CS ) to hi P R h a s m in g, th e prop money on a signi g a r e c e i ve d u r n lifelong fri nts, you’ve mad re pa treatment done can’t h a s l staff, or fic e th at ni c $ tient.” on his em pl oyee endships with th ne ad di o n c l u d e d it has tion of its patient ant UnitedHea 4 0 , 5 0 0 f r o m to Jennifer Rahn according tio na l ru e hospita s and fro lthCare, no way to , M.D., ch Fo r m an medical So m e of s th at ar e th er ls ra $1 m m ief y l in 4,5 of Bl ak he fic ue So Th 00 e it up.” So er of LC al th ca w or ke rs e. ut Cross/Blu is cr ea te Bu t in re H , never se th os e pe op le I’l are at risk of clo h Carolina scen e again.” ario for s a lo se -lo se fro ut h Ca ro lin a, e Shield allow 20 23 , as Co ng CS. CO VI D- th e str es s of th l six of th sure, with ru 19 e ed $1 re ra em cons m H um Co rle y ss their 3, 00 0 pa nd l hosp these which final straw em ic was time and an d th e 90 fu ll- at immediate ris idered to be care provide uncond itals, from Cign an a an d $7 ,50 0 expire, an addi programs to , iti to to ac tio 28 part-tim a, k. on th M co na al w al eir ar rd W as pl ac ed l burden yann Alex ing he care wor receive co communities bu insurance com so a private an ba offi kers who e health Palmett n t h e S o u t h de ck cer r, chief rural healt pany. on t ndition e r n for th jo bs du “I oH lost their h care sy to th e at the of nursing regu ri eir service al payment ch re co gn iz e th e doors in ospital closed lation stem. “[ Co NCSBN w e r e d ng th e cl os ur al i e Pa tte rs 2016, CEO Mich its pa tie nt s th ey s; the more he le ng es fa ci ngse rio us and ch vi d] bu rn ed us “C O VI D . th e re gi s p l a c e d a c r o anged th ru ra l w as no s s facility on st at ed th at ael larger their lo re ce ive, th e amal th ca re pr ov on al he e way we ou t a m aj or lot do of ub t id things,” sa workfor er s an d do a w st re ss or co m m itt “The ho sses. ce. Corle al th ca re due to had lost $2.5 m th e id or on ed Ba Dr kf or rnes, th . Ashley spital th e to fin solutio illion ce y went on to work at a “lo “Burnout ,” said Alexande and unco w patient census itself out of bu is putting com ns that provide di ng officer of e chief execut r. in ne ar by a medical practic iss sin iv m ev m LC e th ue es un pe er e HC s s y ity ns cu un tre in e In S. “Tha ated rre crea de Ai ke n, w men w bit of fund through or ki ng so 20 18 , th e ho sp care.” said. “A nt system,” Mill r quality care,” ith access to ing to he t little is not dously. That bu sed th n analo throug er in ita l w Clybur rnout ld to lp us ending eventuall e pandemic befo re a Lo ng Ba pt is t Ga rd as fire departm gy for this is m a statement. “Thr n said now h covid is gone get y retirin Alexande .” en en [a ou With ou g ou y nd] ts. We do s, pay fir in 2022 r sa Be ac h, r ghout ca re er , t n’t tir I’v e higher.” expenses are a lo nurses choo id the story of EMS driv a lo ca l ho sp ita . based religious Ca lif or ni a fire. e departments sing to re t a resu by the ho el es sly to su pp w or ke d We pay fir l, and no non-profi tire as La rg lt of or the near e times spiked as grow w sits empty, with t, to be there.” e departments he sp ita ls an d co t ru ra l have er , ur ba n ho sp bu rn ou pandemic-related est hosp ing crack m m un ity t w as a dedicated itals wer at le as t ita ls th al e th Re ce s workfor nt er s ac a gardless in its park administr co m m on e lot beco teams fig lo ce of ro fo r fir st 30 -m in ut e dr iv w ati in ph ho m co ss g ve ht in di en w un th in g a gard re ho omen try e “I t ju st en for th ctors like Good spital that he wa .” Clyburn notede i n s u r a n c g with private t h e B a re sp on de rs un til weeds. go t to o on. e ei r ra te s, in rn s Co rle y m uc h, ” Ju st sa pr ivat e g set of the Sout the only membe to co lle ct pac o m p a n i e s Emergenc w e l l - B a m b e r insura he r reasons sh id as on e of th h g Bambe fo ur ye ar s pr io r, pa y nce payers will al th de le ga tio Carolina House treatments, M ym en ts fo r op en ed y Medical Cent e rg Coun e decided n er “W ill ty a in on to to retire. er ’s clo e never fix ed at rura ly Am 20 19 hosp said. su pp se d one-min ute incr ; ev en a de cla in Ap ril 20 12 ital a pr oc ed ur e. am ou nt fo r of erican Rescue or t th e staffi l hospitals, a lac But day. … M got to sit down all af ease in ng makes Plan Ac le ng th of k of y husban 20 21 , Si nc e the similarin g ba nk ru pt cy te r ru ra l ho sp d would ita ls ha sm al l $6.2 mill w hi ch pr ov id edt co lle ct pa ym the fight to have to help m rly citin an d ad m increase EM S dr ives ca e ge ve le ion g m en the n in a patient mortalit 's risk of dollars in losses illions of an d re is tr at iv e st af ss Ru ra l H ea in Emergency battle. Although t an up hi ll I car [after work] t out of y, lth Ca re was fin g th . Sudden be so ur ce s 350 rura nurses an physici Medical according to th ro d we so stiff. Half of th cause Jo e ha d lo l health care work ly, ur ba n ho sp ita th an la rg er of ugh the U.S. De Gr an ts deal wi ans do not typi didn’t ge e time partmen (Barnwell urnal of Surger cally st th ei r Agricultu ers w ith th insure ls, t lu fig nc t we ht y h becaus jo pr ivat e rs, some re to his in g w hi multiple bs . A fte were wor call insu with EM County’s struggl e wi di in att ch re r str su ll ki re rs em ng ict in re im on pt clu , rs .”

S bursemen e the phon Among previous services has been the hospital faile s to re-open a ch e to re ru t is mor fo r Co un ty . Cl de s Al le nd al e argue for their all ly m ai n in ral nurses that People-Se reported by Th Co un ty ’s 15 ,68 d, Bamberg out. enge, Miller po e of a d d r e s s yb ur n di d no t denied covera patients over th e w or ge. ra te s of ntinel). the mo inted ta e faced th 3 re sid en kf or “I ce f tra um a they say kes from ney he , e long EM ts But the “We do tra an no, we’re private S drive th their ne gonna n’ t re Pa lm et story of Southe not ar um at ic str es s di d po strn Co un ighbors in Barn at ne go tia tin g ha ve a lo t of hi sponsible for th insurers Rahn go along with to e higher so rd er s e crisis in that,” ty w ou ld we m ic ro co ’s cl os ur e is s statem said po , su ent. sm of a a fo ur ye ar ll pa ye rs ,” G oo w er w ith team care , noting that he National Insti rveys by the iss ue . In na tio na later.

Ru di s r “W tu s ng ral for th tes of Hea e’re forc healt show. sa id A money lth ru ra l ho re ce nt ye ar s, l T h e d e h care workforce well-being both e patient’s we can ge ed to accept wha . as sp ita ls ac “Th clin ph an Although problem t hosp t, Un ite d ro ss th e … We ta and that’s toug itals in th e o f r u r a l fig d financially. “I’mysically w he e r e w e r e n i the popu St decline of h. ke care n we w ht for my gonna or downs at es ha ve clo se of patient has occurred e United States al ke d ou g h t s rural Am lation w he th er pa ev d tie ize er co nt erica ha d, rura co t an d yb od s grow nt rib ut s.” th ey H care wor ing shor ncurrent to a in av in g to fig said Beck y was in te ar s,” kers have l health numbe ed to th e fa lli s or not and th ca n pa y us ht tage of nu su the weig an at’ y Rowe r of rura ng really carried rses prov re rs in ad di tio w ith of nu ht l hospita struggl s where we p d he al th ca re paymen rs in g at ll, director idin n s t r a i n e of an increasingl w articul The situa e.”

A lle nd al d y care ha t models for he ls, a r l y i n or ke rs , was on g care, Corley sa to County H tio alt st ru ct ur i n d u s t r y . T h Ca n e ospital. id e rolina, South e factor ve been the larg h more difficult is made even e “We had stresso of th e ad di tio , patients th locally an States’ he of th e U ni te the lowe which has one est an d of a pr rs of being a nu na l and their at were dying he d st patient d CE O s of for Gooding of re system, alth care paymen the CHQPR re nationally, hosp ratios in several he the coun -to-nurse pe op es sio n th at 10 rse, be with families could no itals in So ot he r sm al l port foun t The fin 0, 00 0 try. th ut le ha po lic y ancial str t alth care In M ar ex tra um at em. It was quite ucture of d. the state’s refu h Carolina by America pandem ve le ft sin ce ic People-Se pe rt s to ld Th COVID- ch 20 20 , as th th sa 19 nt e N at io ic, according to th e staff. We fo r th e nu rs in e relies on n health care syste e Medicaid, a de l to expand g hope to ne national inel, has created straining pandemic bega cis na the se n Boards l Co un cil of situation a of publ a complicated ble m 2012 by then-g ion made in health ca ve e an r, yt ev hi er St at e the cost around th re ng of Nu of deliver in which insure ic funding, for-p nd H al ey . In 20 overnor Nikki e world, systems Out of a like that again.” “ Yo u ’d rsing (NCSBN). rs, ro care in 19 ing healt Congress small sta think ru Allenda h from pa and direct paym fit former Medica th e sta te ’s ff of 17 insuranc that le Coun en eclipses ral communiti e would ty Hospi , es th is m tients. For hosp ts head said “sev id program paymen pay for ts. tal itals, el de ea ns th at eral hund Despite rly an d red” de rived in co m e Se e HE co m m un these adversitie po is AL fro or pe lik el TH CARE m a va rie s, pa ye rs , 9A ty of the y di ed as a re op le an d he al ity st ak eh ol de su ch as su lt of de rs th cis M M io ed ca e n. d ica re w or ke i The expa ha ve be rs A dv anc a r e , M e d i c id , of Medicaid gu nsion ar cracks an n fil lin g in th us ta ge (a e versi pr iv at iz e d o l l a r s , G o ing federal o expandin d, in some case o s, pa ym n o f M e d i c a ed quickly “bec d i n g s a i d , g ame polit en ts fro r e ) , at a ac ce ss th local health ca m re detrimen ical,” ties and ro ug h de ep lo ca in su ra nc e co m fo r-p ro fit and their pa t to hospitals pa ni es , relations l medica an d story of hips. Th l debt The majo tients. m e With e . rity of lo in Barnw odern health ca ru a ss c ra h es re l ell ho d that pa ym en iffere spitals and Al counties is one of lendale differe t so ur ce co m es n t private payers take is from lo ss , as nt ch grief and , who sp a tens of w end millions ru ra l pa allenge for bo resilience el l as lo ve an on th contribut campaig d ho sp ita tie nt s an d ru . n ions. Be ra Closure l of trying to ad m in is tr at or l an d 20 23 , th e tween 1998 The need rural hospitals collect pa he s in du st service ry sp en al th ca re yments rural Am for health care in multi- s. Medical debt on billion on lob t ov er $5 .8 erica is in by — bi and incr easing fa creasing, run by llion dollar indu a record levels ing, reaching du st. stry el ec de Rural tio n cy cl ring the 2022 pr ivat e bt collectors an ar e ol de c o m m u n i t i e e. Ac co rd r an d fa s highes eq ui ty fir m s — d to ca m pa ig n ra te s of ce hi gh er t am co nt rib ut in g is di sc lo gu su io th e so ut ong patients de at hs of n vi ol en ce an in c a m p re s, th e to p th n he as t, a d a

Author does a good job of presenting this info but also brings the story home through the use of personal stories of people facing the issue that’s central to the reporting.

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Mitchell Mercer The Lancaster News WARRIORS WIN FINAL GAME IN SPRING BREAK TOURNAMENT PAGE A5

COUNTY GEARS UP FOR FIRST LITERARY ARTS FESTIVAL PAGE A10

WEEKEND EDITION

A newspaper in all that the word implies, devoted to the best interests of the people of Cherokee County.

GAFFNEY, S.C.

SERVING LANCASTER COUNTY L ANC A STER • HE ATH SPRINGS • KER SHAW • VAN W YCK • INDIAN L AND

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SATURDAY-SUNDAY, APRIL 6-7, 2024

Group raises concerns over $588M school bond

BY MITCHELL MERCER

MMERCER@THELANCASTERNEWS.COM

LANCASTER, S.C. — A group of Lancaster County community leaders are raising alarms over the $588 million bond proposal approved March 19 by the Lancaster County School Board.

The Rev. AnThony Pelham,

She got a golden ticket

Foster auditions for ‘American Idol’

pastor of Faith, Hope & Victor y Christian Church in Lancaster, has been following the school bond closely through the Delegation for Minority Af fairs, a grassroots organization he leads.

The organization supports equity, while also examining issues and incidents among Black and brown

students throughout Lancaster.

Pelham, who has been involved in the Lancaster community for several years through service and ministry programs, spoke to the board during its March 19 meeting and expressed his dissatisfaction with how the district plans to use taxpayers’ dollars through the

proposed bond.

Pelham believes schools in the city of Lancaster with high Black student populations, such as Lancaster High, A.R. Rucker and South middle, Clinton, Brooklyn Springs and Erwin elementaries, are not getting enough support to SEE BOND/PAGE A4

Cody Sossamon The Gaffney Ledger

PAGE 7

AnThony Pelham

Driver killed in wreck near Panhandle

BY MITCHELL MERCER

MMERCER@THELANCASTERNEWS.COM

LANCASTER, S.C. — A Latta man was killed in a single-car wreck near the Panhandle on Wednesday, April 3. according to master trooper Brandon Bolt of the S.C Highway

www.gaffneyledger.com

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2024

OVERTURNED

School trustees vote 5-2 to nullify teacher’s termination

By CODY SOSSAMON Ledger Publisher cody@gaffneyledger.com A crowd of nearly 100 friends and family of Erin Hogue burst into applause after the Cherokee County School Board voted 5-2 to overturn Superintendent Dana Fall’s decision to terminate Hogue for ‘unprofessional’ conduct.

The vote came after a 3 hour 45 minute hearing followed by a 3 hour executive session Monday at the district administration office.

The termination decision resulted from a November 7 incident at Blacksburg Primary where Hogue is the librarian. According to testimony at the hearing, she was attempting to make a first grade student (referred to as Student C) behave. A video shown to trustees (but not the public) showed Hogue take a coat from the girl after she had repeatedly taken it off, put it on backwards and tried to have another student zip it up.

Student C began putting her head inside her shirt and pulling it up over her knees, which Hogue said was distracting other students from watching a video.

Hogue admitted to touching Student C during her testimony. After taking the girl’s coat, “I had verbally asked her several times to stop putting her head in the shirt and on her knees. Then I touched her to get her attention,” Hogue said.

Several other witnesses including Blacksburg Primary Principal Michael Bender, Deputy Superintendent Carl Carpenter and Superintendent Dana Fall described the touch alternately as a “pop’” or a “hit.”

The incident was reported to Bender

Erin Hogue and her husband, Grady, embrace after her termination was overruled.

by Student C’s teacher Brandi Maynor, who described herself as a friend of Hogue, with whom she has been a colleague at the school for 18 years.

“When Student C returned to my classroom she told me the library teacher had

Superintendent receives raise,

75 CENTS

hit her on the leg,” Maynor said. “I told the principal about the incident.” After her testimony, an emotional Maynor turned to Hogue and mouthed “I’m sorry.”

Hogue mouthed back, “That’s OK.”

Bender viewed the video from the library’s security camera with the school’s resource officer, who determined there was no chargeable offense. The principal then reported the incident to Carpenter who met with Hogue on November 8 and placed her on administrative leave. Carpenter in turn met with Fall where the video was reviewed. After Fall met with Hogue and her husband Grady, he decided to terminate her.

Although it was not mentioned during the hearing, sources have told The Ledger she was given the option to resign rather than be terminated at least three times. There was also no mention of a district ‘No Touch’ policy which again The Ledger has been told was mentioned on at least two occasions. During his testimony, Bender said “a pop is overstepping, unprofessional.” He also said he called Student C’s mother that day and “She was angry. She wanted something to be done. She wanted her job and said she would press charges.”

Later testimony indicated the mother spoke to the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Department but they declined to press charges. Bender also testified that Student C said she was not hurt and had no bruises.When Fall was questioned by the administration’s attorney, Alex Sherard, he cited several district policies dealing with unfitness for teaching and unprofessional conduct, which are grounds for termination.

“Hitting a child is unprofessional conduct,” he said.

“Do you regret the decision to terminate?” Sherard then asked the superintendent. l See OVERTURNED, Page 2

EDUCATION

LAZYBIRDS BAND TO BRING ‘ROLLICKING’ SHOW TO LANCASTER PAGE XX

BUFORD HOSA TEAM WINS STATE ANATOMAGE TOURNAMENT PAGE A3

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DIVISION E

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SERVING LANCASTER COUNTY L ANC A STER • HE ATH SPRINGS • KER SHAW • VAN W YCK • INDIAN L AND

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FIRST PLACE

Mitchell Mercer The Lancaster News

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, APRIL 13-14, 2024

Questions arise over LCSD salaries, consulting role

BY MITCHELL MERCER

MMERCER@THELANCASTERNEWS.COM

LANCASTER, S.C. — Concerns have been raised over the disparity in salar y between Lancaster County School District Superintendent Dr. Raashad Fitzpatrick and former superintendent Dr. Jonathan Phipps.

The Rev. AnThony Pelham, pastor at Faith, Hope & Victor y Christian Church in Lancaster and leader of the Delegation for Minority Af fairs, is questioning the salary stipend of both super-

intendents, as well as Phipps’ new consulting role that runs through June.

According to contract information Raashad Pelham’s Fitzpatrick organization received from the school district through a Freedom of Information request, Phipps’ ending salar y as superintendent was listed at $254,972, with Fitzpatrick’s starting salary at $195,000.

“So often, when it comes to African American talent, we’r e often the ones that are underpaid. That’s Johnathan a problem Phipps because that’s the fight we’ve been having all of our lives. We have to work twice as hard to achieve what we achieved and when we get there, we get underpaid,” Pelham said, questioning whether the salary dispar-

ity is based on race. Phipps is white, and Fitzpatrick is Black.

Pelham also said he feels taxpayers’ AnThony money across Pelham Lancaster County is being misused by the district and believes that there needs to be honesty from the board.

CONTRACT DETAILS

According to the contract,

Phipps’ consultation role pays him $127,486 for six months until his official retirement on June 30, when he will also get a $127,486 lump sum severance payment.

Pelham also pointed out that as part of Phipps’ pay and benefits, his annuity contribution was 8%. He was allotted moving expenses up to $10,000 and an automobile allowance of $800 per month.

Fitzpatrick’s annuity contribution is 5%, according to his SEE SALARIES/PAGE A2

Man gets 16 years for voyeurism

BY MITCHELL MERCER

A fantastic in-depth article that works to keep government and public officials accountable for leading with integrity.

Fiscal responsibility needs to be brought to the attention of the public.

MMERCER@THELANCASTERNEWS.COM

COLUMBIA, S.C. — A Charlotte, N.C., man has been sentenced to 16 years in prison for recording young girls showering, according to S.C. Attorney General Alan Wilson.

W illiam Brandon Lee Campbell, 45, pleaded

John Hamrick

South Carolina Ballet dancer James Velasco, center, channels the king of rock ‘n’ roll during the “Blue Suede Shoes”

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Skyler Baldwin & Anna Garziera Charleston City Paper

SECOND PLACE

Nicole Ziege The Post and Courier Myrtle Beach/Georgetown Times

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FIRST PLACE

Nicole Ziege The Post and Courier Myrtle Beach/Georgetown Times Congratulations on this very detailed coverage of a wild and messy situation. This underscores the role of community journalism.

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PHOTOS BY DAMIAN DOMINGUEZ | INDEX-JOURNAL

THIRD PLACE Mary Dimitrov The Island Packet

SECOND PLACE Risky recreation Rocks jut from the waters of the Saluda River near Irvin Pitts Memorial Park in Ware Shoals.

mary runoff for t the open 3rd Con Mark Burns is yard dog” who v in Congress, Sheri Biggs says focused on he the nation by add ing Washington’ cal, mental and tual health proble It’s the only gressional race w Trump and Mc ter differ on thei dorsements. Mc ter has aligned Trump since when South Caro then-lieutenant ernor became th elected official to Trump for presid The winner Tuesday’s runoff Bryon Best in N the conservative spans 11 countie Georgia border.

Duncan announ wouldn’t seek rein Congress, the became a seven Republicans.

Burns, who’s m for himself sinc Trump supporte with 33% of the 29%.

It’s Burns’ third his first in the 3rd He ran twice adjacent 4th Dis to incumbent U mons, who secu ment and won outright with 53 trailed in second 2018, when Timm Burns placed eigh ry.

Now Burns, a network he foun Harvest Praise & sley, is running

St. Claire Donaghy & Renee Ortiz Index-Journal

Police stress water safety after man drowns in Ware Shoals

By MYA ATTEN matten@indexjournal.com

The drowning at Irvin Pitts Memorial Park in Ware Shoals has prompted community-wide reflection on water safety.

Juan Otoniel Antonio Simon, 23, was identified as the man who drowned Sunday in the Saluda River near Irvin Pitts Park.

At about 4:30 p.m. Sunday the Ware Shoals Police Department responded to a call about a possible drowning. Dive and rescue teams from Laurens and Abbeville counties were notified and immediately responded to the scene. The body was recovered from about nine feet of water around 7:30 p.m., and was identified by Simon’s family, according to the Ware Shoals Police Department.

Simon’s family told officials he knew how to swim, but the currents

Signs at Irivn Pitts Memorial Park mark where ring buoys are supposed to be, but Ware Shoals Police Chief Bryan Louis said they often are taken and not returned. were very strong, the coroner’s office release said.

“My heart breaks for the family,” said Ware Shoals Police Chief Bryan Louis. “It’s tragic and unfortunately has been happening a lot.”

Louis emphasized the park’s designation as a “swim at your own

risk” area with no lifeguards present.

He highlighted the presence of deep spots and holes, urging caution for swimmers regardless of experience.

Louis also noted that despite community efforts to provide life jackets, throw ropes and preservers for public use, these safety items often

A sign at Irvin Pitts Memorial Park warns visitors to swim at their own risk. go missing. He urged the public to return these items after every use.

Contact staff writer Mya Atten at 864-943-5644 or email: matten@ indexjournal.com.

See RUNOFF, p

Opening arguments halted to presiding Circuit Judge Donald B. Hocker of Laurens. Hocker indicated Swerling was being seen at liam Gray “Bud” Ackerman Jr. Mon- a hospital “out of an abundance of

By ST. CLAIRE DONAGHY day halted abruptly midday. caution.” sdonaghy@indexjournal.com The defendant’s attorney, Jack B. Bud Ackerman is facing a murder Opening arguments by attorneys Swerling of Columbia, relayed he in the trial of Greenwood man Wil- was “not feeling well,” according See TRIAL, page 4A

‘Bud’ Ackerman Jr. trial starts

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Columbia-b attorney Ja addresses Monday’s o in the trial William Gra Jr., who is charge in t death of K McClendon

ST. CLAIRE DO

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BY BRUCE MILLS bruce@theitem.com Nova Molecular Technologies, a high-purity solvents manufacturer, will continue to grow its relatively new industrial site near U.S. 521 in Pocotaligo East Industrial Site.

Just 15 months after commission-

ing its new chemical plant in October 2022, Nova announced on Wednesday an additional $23.8 million capital investment and will create 20 more jobs locally, according to a news release and company President and CEO Chris Adams, who spoke to The Sumter Item.

customers to reuse their waste materials, Adams said.

“There are plenty of recovery organizations out there, but they will bring it to kind of a crude level of purity that can be used for industrial applications or maybe reused as a paint thinner or something like that,” he said. “But what we do is

SEE NOVA, PAGE A4

SUMTER ITEM FILE PHOTO

Nova Molecular Technologies’ new chemical plant is seen in October 2022 when it was commissioned. Nova Molecular announced another expansion at the site on Wednesday.

Mayesville mayor holds canceled meeting in a hallway without support of council

BY BRYN EDDY and JOHN RAMSEY bryn@theitem.com jramsey@postandcourier.com

FIRST PLACE

Bryn Eddy and John Ramsey The Sumter Item

Outside Mary McLeod Bethune Learning Center in the town of Mayesville, recently elected Mayor Chris Brown taped copies of the Jan. 23 agendas for two town meetings.

The next day, the small town in Sumter County saw those meetings canceled then uncanceled and then canceled again when no elected leaders except the mayor showed up.

“I was informed today that Mayor Brown has created and submitted agendas that were not approved by the Town of Mayesville Council,” Town Clerk Taurice Collins wrote in an email the day the meeting was scheduled for. “Since Council has not had time to review the two agendas properly, please note that the unapproved Work Session meeting for tonight at 6:30pm has been canceled by Council.”

Brown was quick to respond.

“I apologize to you all,” he wrote. “The Town of Mayesville Work Session and the Town of Mayesville CDC Meeting will take place at 6:30 and at 7:30 respectively. There is NO cancellation. Mrs. Taurice Collins has been warned twice about communicating to organizations outside of the Town of Mayesville government personnel without discussing with Mayor Brown.

This is the third time she has willfully disobeyed the directive.”

SEE MAYESVILLE, PAGE A6

ABOVE: Mayesville Mayor Chris Brown stands on a work bench to address residents at the Tuesday, Jan. 23, meeting he put on without council support. Brown does not have keys to the room where town meetings are usually held, so he, Mayesville residents and numerous sheriff’s deputies met in the hallway and foyer of the Mary McLeod Bethune Learning Center, which also houses the community development corporation — a nonprofit setup used by towns and cities across the nation to help raise money for affordable housing and economic development.

LEFT: Sumter County sheriff’s deputies attend every council meeting in Mayesville. Four of their vehicles were parked outside the Mary McLeod Bethune Learning Center during the Jan. 23 meeting.

PHOTOS BY BRYN EDDY / THE SUMTER ITEM

On coldest nights, fund helps neighbors with what we may take for granted

It sounds like there’s a lot happening in Mayesville, and this reporter took a deep dive to uncover the details, presenting both sides of the story in an unbiased way.

BY KEVIN HOWELL Sumter United Ministries

One thing about my job at Sumter United Ministries: It is impossible to not think of our clients on bitterly cold nights.

and a gas furnace that was more than able to keep my family warm and safe.

As I laid there thankful, I would begin to think of those without such assurances.

We have had many requests for kerosene lately at the Crisis Relief Minis-

a month who lives in a family home, an inherited property, needed a boost financially with a voucher for kerosene.

A disabled man in his 50s, a victim of a violent crime from a few years prior, needed kerosene to keep warm, also.

REPORTING-IN-DEPTH

DIVISION A

THIRD PLACE Tony Kukulich The Post and Courier

SECOND PLACE Javon L. Harris The State

REPORTING-IN-DEPTH

DIVISION A

FIRST PLACE

John Ramsey and Valerie Nava The Post and Courier

This story grabbed me with its powerful lede… and I didn’t stop reading. Written and reported with authority.

BY MELISSA MCCOY mtscreporter@gmail.com

INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING

Willie White, a lifelong resident of Manning, celebrated his 100th birthday on June 3rd, surrounded by family and friends who gathered to honor his century-long journey.

White was born in 1924 in Manning and has spent his entire life in the community. As a young man, he attended school in Manning but left before graduating to serve in the U.S. Army during World War II. Drafted on July 11th, 1944, White served in the European Theater, moving across

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

See WHITE, Page 4

SECOND PLACE

THIRD PLACE Macy Cochran The Greer Citizen

Melissa McCoy The Manning Times

50 YEARS LATER: Blue Ridge baseball merges past, present success B1

SOUTH CAROLINA’S PREMIER WEEKLY

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17, 2024

GREER, SOUTH CAROLINA VOL. 111 NO. 16 $1.00

Council passes road projects

IN GREER WE TRUST?

Questions raised about funding ForGreer projects Brand-new corporation created

BY MACY COCHRAN EDITOR Editor’s note: This is a multi-part investigative series on the funding for the ForGreer projects. Part 2 of the “In Greer We Trust?” series will be published as more information becomes available. The Greer Citizen has reached out to council members and the City Administrator and is awaiting comment.

With Greer City Council’s recent approval of funding for the ForGreer projects, and City Administrator Andy Merriman’s creation of Corporation ForGreer––a 501(c)(3) trust––questions are rumbling under the city’s surface.

Perry Williams, Vice President and Chairman of Greer Trust Corporation, is speaking out about Merriman’s new trust to fund

France and into Germany. He remained in Europe through the end of the war and was part of the initial occupation forces that stabilized the region after the fighting ended, serving until his discharge on October 29th, 1946.

Reflecting on his service, White recalled significant moments, including being in Okinawa when Japan decided to surrender, a moment he described as “a pretty good day.”

After the war, White returned to Manning and entered the cleaning business, both janitorial services for a majority of the offices around town, as well as dry cleaning. He was part of a partnership that ran the local dry cleaner, Mercury Cleaners, a profession he dedicated himself to for

department on Groce Meadow Road, a police and fire training facility, a 500-space parking garage on Depot Street, and a new sports and events facility on a 25-acre property within the City of Greer (the location of which has yet to be announced).

‘We did not want to fund these (ForGreer) projects because we’re concerned about the ability of the city to pay this debt...’

Perry Williams

Vice President/Chairman, Greer Trust Corporation

WHAT IS GREER TRUST?

“Greer Trust Corporation was established in 2006 for the specific purpose to acquire, construct, finance, pledge, improve, maintain, operate, manage, lease, and dispose of a

To preserve existing pavement

BY MACY COCHRAN EDITOR PHOTO | SUBMITTED

‘Men and Women at Work and Play’ features clips of women and men playing ball at athletic events in the Startex community in 1938.

Startex Mill featured in NYC film festival

BY MACY COCHRAN EDITOR Startex goes to New York City? That’s right!

“We’re putting the ‘star’ back in ‘Startex,’” said Donald Jones, Startex-Tucapau Preservation Foundation President.

MEN AND WOMEN AT WORK

Startex Mill and Village was featured at an International Film Festival in the Big Apple on Friday, April 12. The Orphan Film Symposium accepted the University of South Carolina’s Moving Picture Library’s

At the April 9 meeting, Greer City Council members passed a Pavement Preservation Project.

The agenda states, “In an effort to preserve our pavements, one of our most expensive assets, staff is proposing another HA5 application project this year in the city. The proposed locations are all streets in the Riverside Chase, Dillard Creek Crossing, Heartwood Place, and Richglen subdivisions.”

According to the agenda, the total length of road to be treated is approximately 4.2 miles. The contractor is Holbrook Asphalt from Florida.

Proposed amount from Holbrook for this work is $264,240.28. Funding is from the Road Paving Fund.

Council also passed another Pavement Preservation Project for Cypress Landing, Crosswinds, Creekside Manor, and Freeman Farms subdivisions. The total length to

BIRTHDAY. Lots of people gathered to celebrate White’s big day. (Photo C/O Patricia Pringle

GRANT

Barrineau Public Utilities secures $1 million rural infrastructure grant after years-long effort

BY MELISSA MCCOY mtscreporter@gmail.com After a long and difficult campaign, Barrineau Public Utilities has successfully secured a $1 million rural infrastructure grant. This funding will significantly improve the local water system, enabling upgrades for existing water lines and the installation of a new water tank, well, and additional fire hydrants in underserved areas.

This victory comes after multiple rejections and without the backing of Clarendon County.

The achievement marks a major milestone for Barrineau Public Utilities, a nonprofit organization committed to providing affordable and reliable water services to the residents of Barrineau and surrounding areas. The organization’s president, Steven Barrineau, alongside vice president Robbie Springs and treasurer Bill Wallace, has been at the forefront of this initiative, underscoring the importance of the grant for local infrastructure and public safety.

Years of Determination and Setbacks The journey to obtaining this grant has been

anything but straightforward. It began in 2021 when Barrineau Public Utilities first applied for funding through the South Carolina Infrastructure Investment Fund. Despite being told they were an ideal recipient for funds through the program by State Senator Johnson, District 36, the application was denied. According to Barrineau, the rejection stemmed from the grant’s stipulation against funding new lines, which the utility needed for its upgrades.

“We were told we didn’t qualify because the grant money wasn’t allocated for new lines, only for upgrading existing systems,” Barrineau explained. “But our system is maxed out, and without new wells and tanks, we can’t provide the necessary volume to support new fire hydrants.”

Navigating Sponsorship Challenges A critical obstacle in the process was the requirement for a local government sponsor. Initially, Barrineau Public Utilities sought sponsorship from Clarendon County. Despite their efforts, including presenting at Clarendon Council meetings and direct appeals to Council Chairman Dwight Stewart and former County Administrator David Epperson, their requests were denied twice, first in 2022 and again in 2023.

See UTILITIES, Page 4

EDUCATION

WELLNESS

WATER. In 2012, Barrineau Public Utilities (BPU) and the Town of Turbeville connected their water lines in an effort to provide emergency assistance to each other’s residents, if needed. The yellow fire hydrant on the left is Barrineau’s while the red hydrant on the right belongs to Turbeville. These hydrants are now a symbol of these two communities’ efforts to work together to expand access to clean, affordable water.

Clarendon County School District DHEC encourages men to focus holds “Leadership and Latte” to on their health during Men’s

Serving Barnwell County and its neighbors since 1852

“We got a problem and nobody can give us a solution to 12, 2024 the problem. That’s what I got out of WEDNESDAY, this meetingJUNE today,"

Alexandra Whitbeck Reporter VOLUME 148, NO. 8 reporter@thepeoplesentinel.com

INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

Generations Unlimited (GU), Barnwell County’s office on aging, is facing yet another structural c h a n g e w h i l e b a t t l i n g o ve r $120,000 of debt.

Ethel Faust, who served as GU’s executive director, resigned effective May 24.

“You should be advised that the insurmountable challenges presently before the organization

- Barnwell County Council Chairman Jerry Creech,

speaking during the May 23rd GU board meeting about ongoing issues

presents a dire need for more in-depth expertise, involvement and engagement to sustain it to a more functional and operable business,” said Faust in her May 20 resignation letter to GU board chairperson Cheryl Long.

Faust’s resignation comes a

day after the agency held their monthly board meeting where individuals spanning across numerous county and state agencies discussed the agency’s trajectory within the last year.

“This conversation should have happened six months ago,” said

Blackville PD fails to submit body camera footage resulting in case dismissal

Barnwell Ponytails win Dixie softBall worlD series - B1 officers serving a warrant.

Alexandra Whitbeck

Blackville-Hilda's Jaquel Holman commits to Gamecock football Sports, B1

FIRST PLACE

Bill Molnar, executive director of Lower Savannah Council of Governments (LSCOG). “This is not happening the way it needs to happen with the structure you have in place right now.”

BACKGROUND GU has faced financial

2 SECTIONS / 20 PAGES / $1

See TROUBLES, 6A

Reporter reporter@thepeoplesentinel.com

S.C. Criminal Two Justice cases were dismissed after the Blackville Police Department failed to supply all Academy 'troubled' by evidence to the state.

At the June 10 proceedings t the Barnwell County Blackville PD'saCourthouse, 'flagrant presiding Judge Courtney Clyburn Pope charges of two disregard' for dismissed statethelaw unrelated defendants after both

It is alleged in the warrant that on September 9, 2023, Rowe “knowingly and willingly attempted to prevent the Blackville Police Department and SLED from apprehending a fugitive from justice,” said deputy solicitor David Miller.

The warrant alleges Rowe shouted to the individual law enforcement was looking for, which she denies, according to her public defender, Wallis Alves.

Alves sent the first email to the solicitor’s office on November 21, 2023 requesting body camera footage from the incident. In 2 SECTIONS / 16 PAGES / $1 gathering evidence to create a discovery (a case file with all evidence and reports), the

the solicitor's office and defense state agency. explained they had yet Thisattorney comes after three officers l e f t tto h ereceive d e p a r body t m e n tcamera i n l a t efootage April.from Official letters theresignation department. submitted the town state VOLUME 148, NO. 15 WEDNESDAY, JULY 31, 2024these related Thetofirst case dismissed T h e B l a c k v i l l e P o l i c e officers varying reasons. to left thefor September 13, 2023 arrest Department (BPD) has been found FIRST LETTER ofTHE 24-year-old Daysha Rowe in non-compliant with state law and CJABlackville. first found BPD nonRowe was charged one of its commanding officers is compliant in March when the with interference/hindering See DISMISSEd, 3A under investigation. department did not submit their VOLUME 148, NO. 10 WEDNESDAY, JUNE 26, 2024 2 SECTIONS / 18 PAGES / $1 The Criminal Justice Academy roster upon request. Mayor (CJA) sent a letter on May 22 Pernell and Chief Crawford were notifying Chief Ray Crawford notified on March 29, 2024 the Photo Courtesy: Allendale County School District and Mayor Ronnie Pernell that roster had not been submitted, Allendale-Fairfax Elementary School teacher Tameika Tinsley won the largest bonus of $25,250.

BPD was “not in compliance with and CJA granted an additional 30 either South Carolina statutes, days to do so.

South Carolina regulations, According to Chief Crawford, or Law Enforcement Training CJA initially sent the roster Council (LETC) orders.” request letter to an outdated Alexandra Whitbeck A second May 22 letter from email address on file, causing the Reporter CJA informs Chief Crawford of oversight. CJA confirmed to The the active investigation against People-Sentinel roster requests arereporter@thepeoplesentinel.com Alexandra Whitbeck BPD Lieutenant Brian Gray for sent to departments via email.

Reporter “willfully falsifying material Corder retired in 2022 after An investigation by the S.C. Jonathan Vickery reporter@thepeoplesentinel.com information” submitted to of the See POLICE, 2A Criminal Justice Academy leading the consolidation Alexandra Whitbeck Alexandra Whitbeck Barnwell County Consolidated School District (BCCSD) Superintendent David Corder (left) is retiring on Reporter June 30 after 37 years in education. He's pictured at the district's end-of-the-year celebration on May reporter@thepeoplesentinel.com 30 with his wife Lynette and son David Corder Jr., who are both BCCSD educators. Jonathan Vickery / Publisher

Blackville chief David Corder retires loses certification Certifications of over 'doctored after 37-year career Meredith Wright Blackville chief and documents' Alexandra Whitbeck Allendale County lieutenant suspended hired as new county localnearly education administrator teachersin receive Serving Barnwell County and its neighbors since 1852

The People-Sentinel $100,000 in teacher

“You’re not only ( C J A) u n c o ve r e d c o n t i n u e d District 19 (Blackvilleour hero but a hero h eBarnwell Reporter Blackville Police misconduct by the Blackville Police with D Hilda e p a r t m Public e n t i s dSchools) own T Department (BPD) and its former reporter@thepeoplesentinel.com to the community the t o t h r eWilliston e o f f i c e rDistrict s a f t e r 29, t hforming e chief, resulting in a withdrawn certifications, andHowever, therefore law he “father” of BlackvilleThe Criminal Justice Academy BCCSD. he stayed on certification and a tentative fine.

Community meeting to that you haveenforcement authority,role of the CJA investigators found suspended law enforcement The search for a new Barnwell Hilda’s public schools is in a part-time with BCCSD After more than 30 years of owning Sport's convenience store, Sport Holland (left) is retiring.

He has evidence chief and lieutenant have been certifications for Blackville CountyPolice administrator is over.of misconduct in multiple retiring, again. as interim director of operations. soldfor the business to Parker Boehme. served 30-plus instances within BPD, primarily in suspended.

Chief Ray Crawford (left) and Lt. be held June 11 about Meredith Wright will assume this being altered to permit Barnwell County Following the retirement of documents According to Mayor Ronnie Brian Gray (right). role on June 17.

Consolidated School District years; generations BCCSD Superintendent Dr. uncertified officers to act with full Former Blackville Police Chief Pernell, the department is left authority people that I have had and while not under Ray Crawford speaks during a (BCCSD) interim superintendent Weaver said at the celebration.

Marcella in June currently staffed Shaw with three U.S.2023, mail and email“The to Mayor Elijah de Castro countywide high school “When you support the supervision of a certified law 2023 community forum. He is no ofneed people have c e r t i f i eCorder d o f f i cdelayed e r s a n d full t w oretirement theCrawford, privilege of working with Pernell, Chief Ray The for teachers at some Report for America David Corder has dedicated enforcement officer. A date on longer chief after losing his law n o n - c efor r t i f iae dyear oJonathan f f i cso e r s he , aVickery ncould d attorney Walters, and relationships building with his entire lead Glenn and districts is so severe t e a c 37-year h e r s career a n d asg ianv e school one document was found to be enforcement certification. elijah@thepeoplesentinel.com been affected by has policing support from Lieutenant that the South Carolina DOE sincenotifying coming to Barnwellaltered County educator to Blackville-Hilda’s BCCSD for its finalthe year before Brian Gray Publisher physically using Wite-Out, Barnwell County Sheriff’s Office them of suspension and request has taken up virtual teaching, teachers recognition, it are some of the most amazing public schools.

Over the years, B a r n we l l C o u n t y ’ s s c h o o l a white liquid applied to paper to Glenn Walters from Orangeburg, jvickery@thepeoplesentinel.com hard work,and thedistricts The last wall of bay doors falls on June 19 as crews continued demolition of theyour old Barnwell city fire State Law Enforcement of withdrawal of both officers’ where educators are connected andBarnwell. teachers The cheered coversaid errors. attended the South Carolina people that I have ever met,” he’s been teacher, assistant stationStudents in downtown building, built inathe early recruitment 1950s, originally housed the fire department, Division (SLED). consolidate July law1.enforcement certifications. helps with “That's to dedication classrooms virtually.

Shawn as department, nearly $100,000 wasand awarded Wright.

“This community hasthe concern that we as a L a w E n f o r c e m e n t T r a i n i n g principal, principal, alternative “I had no intention police city hall, other offices, though in recent years it solely housed the Barnwell Fire and On Thursday, June 20, the of coming An investigation

by CJA was council have, that you have officers Council (LETC) meeting at CJA Blanchard, an educator who to 17 teachers at the Allendale community invited Department.

Firefighters recently moved into the new station justand next of door. the old building is S.C. Criminal Justice welcomed me with open school director, director back,The but I’m Academy so glad Iisdid,” saidto and retention it Once outarms, there that are not certified, who headquarters in Columbia. livesloving in Atlanta, Ga., but teaches Countytorn School (ACSD) an informational meeting about See SUSPENDED, 3A heart." completely downDistrict by the end of the week, aprograms, parking lot will be interim added.

(CJA) sent letters via certified and I am excited to continue to federal and Corder. are not eligible to be working at At this meeting, the status of seventh grade math at Allendaleon May 29. the Barnwell County School Publisher jvickery@thepeoplesentinel.com

T performance payments

Photo By: Jonathan Vickery /Publisher

Service with a smile:

Alexandra Whitbeck / Reporter / File Photo

Old fire station torn down Sport Holland retires,

sells convenience store

Jonathan Vickery / Publisher

helps empower teachers - Anderson Corder to greatness."

- Superintendent Dr. Vallerie Cave

superintendent.

Kathy Witherspoon, Fairfax Middle School, was one of As part of the South Carolina District's facility plan. whose daughter the winners of the Excellence in Department of Education (DOE)“You’re not only our hero but T h e Laney m e e t i nFox g wgraduated ill be held his father's impact f r oTuesday, a hero to the community that of m Wi l l June iston H at i g the h Teaching Awards.

Excellence in Teaching Awards, 11- E atl 6k o p.m.

Jonathan Vickery you have served for 30-plus S c h o o l t h i s ye a r , s a i dCenter. she “I as justan came back to the federal and state funds were Barnwell County Career Publisher educator years; generations of people classroomjvickery@thepeoplesentinel.com three months ago,” used to give Allendale’s teachers The architect anddedication contractor appreciates Corder’s said Blanchard, drove threein to education. checks, ranging from as small have as been affected by your hard proud firms will be“Ipresent to share have known of. If onlywho superheroes hours to be at the celebration. $500 up to $29,250. The ACSDwork, is plans for a new CTE-focused dedication and loving the Corder since he washigh a comics could be heroic B a as rnw e l l l eas g e nMr. d

by That’s large numbers teachers “I Zoom in the a teacher performance pay school heart. a career,oflife and you.

I loveinyou, Dad,” son andmornings, a said pillar of the school, which is a combination of due tobe low Monday through Friday. district, meaning top-performing and career center. i t y h a s a high schoolSee loveleaving that the anyworkforce son would CORDER, 10A Anderson Corder.c o m m uI nhave teachers are given bonuses based pay, burnout and poor working the kids working "Once selected, the district retired. really hard.” conditions.

Concurrently, report cards on student improvement. board and leadership will work Lawson “Sport” Holland Jr. As a high-needs school district, released inhas retiredshow and that soldtest his iconic with the chosen firms to develop October “Teachers, I am so proud of

What's a penny

Good job following an important issue ofA policing in Blackville.

said Chief Mark Keel of the Crawford’s law enforcement work alongside everyoneall,” to keep State Law Enforcement Division Meredith Wrightcertification is the new and the overall Barnwell moving forward.”

(SLED). “They met none of for theBarnwell c o n t i n County. ued departmental administrator Wright is currently the county’s qualifications to be working in the misconduct was on the agenda. deputy administrator community serving they were working in.”

BACKGROUND a Blackville p r i v i l e Mayor ge to w o first r k strike w i tcame h on March 29, 2. alongside A n e w c current o m p r e hadministrator e n s i v e On July 24, The former chief outstanding department heads c a r eBennett. e r c e n t eBennett r a n d h is i g Ronnie hretiringPernell, Tim andwith his attorney, s c h o oover l o n six t h eyears c u r r ewith nRay t Crawford a supportive County See CHIEF, 5A after the and site of Barnwell High county.

S “c h I to’osl b( aeler ena dayn ohwonneod r a n d See ADMINISTRATOR, 6A

by the district) with the current high school being demolished following new

City trash rates

INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING

DIVISIONS B & C COMBINED

THIRD PLACE Matthew Christian Aiken Standard

SECOND PLACE Elizabeth Brewer The Sun News

INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING

DIVISIONS B & C COMBINED

FIRST PLACE

David Weissman The Sun News

Tremendous reporting not only on a local story affecting a major local institution, but a national story.

INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING

DIVISION A

THIRD PLACE Jocelyn Grzeszczak & Eva Herscowitz

The Post and Courier

SECOND PLACE Zak Koeske The State

INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING

DIVISION A

FIRST PLACE

John Ramsey, Glenn Smith and Hongyu Liu The Post and Courier A most difficult category to judge due to a bushel of outstanding entries. This is the epitome of investigative reporting.

Look under every rock to call attention to a problem that adversely affects public health.

SERIES OF ARTICLES

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

THIRD PLACE

Shellie Murdaugh Jasper County Sun Times

SECOND PLACE Nichole Livengood The News

Head coach Reggie Kennedy highlighted the importance of preparation and a strong week of practice, which

Kristan’s journey to opening 4:13 Fitness began with a

following a defensive fumble recovery, and another rushing touchdown by Coard pushed the lead further. Canty also

SERIES OF ARTICLES

it relevant and reliable under the South Carolina Rules of

face, upper body, leg, and foot. Investigat

See

See MONARCHS, Page 4

ART

POLIT EDUCATION Lake Marion Artist Gallery showcases local talent and Duke Energy Foundation awards CCSD Teacher of the Year: Ladell Clarendon County School District Di expands artsCareer education surprise grant to Vision by Design Grice, F.E. DuBose Center opportunities Teacher of the Year: Krystina com for food bank program EDUCATION

DONATION

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

racking up 135 yards and two touchdowns on nine carries while scoring on defense and blocking two kicks. Coard

BY MELISSA MCCOY mtscreporter@gmail.com

FIRST PLACE

Staff The Manning Times

BY MELISSA MCCOY

in Beaufort BYdetective MELISSA MCCOYCounty, a milestone she describes with humility and gratitude. mtscreporter@gmail.com

ranging from surrealist Salvador Dalí to the modern cartoonist Rebecca Sugar, best known for creating Steven Uni-

Timmons, East Clarendon

She later became a regional supervisor and verse. He also draws inspiration from contemporary artists Assistant Division Director of InvestigaThe Manning Times is proud like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Aaron McGruder, reflecting The the LakeSouth Marion ArtistDepartment Gallery (LMAG), located tions with Carolina to continue this special series celebrata unique blend of classical and contemporary styles in his Main Street After in Summerton, continuing its misof Corrections.

25 years ofisservice, ing the outstanding educators who have at 108 BY MELISSA MCCOY work. sion of fostering local talent, promoting arts education, and she retired in 2011, but her passion for been named the Clarendon County Visitors to LMAG can view Register’s work along connections through a rich variety mtscreporter@gmail.com helping community others led her to education.

Teachers of the Year for 2024. We aim to enhancing with other local artists. The gallery, which is open Fridays “Because ofand my classes interaction with young This non-profit this September. recognize and thank these remarkable of exhibitions menoperated and women, young juveniles, teachers for their unwavering commit- gallery, from 11Times a.m. tois3 proud p.m. Astothekick only gallery in by the Lakeadults, Marion Artisans (LMA), offers and Saturdays The Manning all cultures and socioeconomic statuses, ment to their students, their passion for a haven Clarendon County, LMAG plays an important role in showfor both established and emerging artists, while off a special series celebrating the outstanding I wanted to use my experience to bring it teaching, and the positive impact they encouraging the public to engage with the arts in Clarendon casing the creative energy of the region. back into a teaching setting,” Grice said. “I have on our schools and community. educators whoAccording have been named themission Claren-statement, to the gallery’s County. realized how easy it was for young people Stay tuned each week as we share their of the for 2024.

Weof South LMAG’s Teachers primary goal is toYear promote the work This month, is spotlighting Ronald Reg- don County to get in trouble andLMAG how hard it was stories of dedication and excellence.

Carolina artists, develop talent, and use art as a tool to ister, 24-year-old artist from Manning, recognize and thanknew these remarkable fora them to get out.

I wanted to use myas their featured aim to strengthen theunwavering sense of community in the region. of the Month.

A graduate of on Benedict background to help guide them a betterCollege with ateachers When Ladell Grice entered the Artist for their commitment to The gallery also seeks totheir enhance economic development by fostering an in” studio art, Register works across multiple mediums path. classroom in 2011, she brought with her major their students, passion for teaching, and At F.E. acrylic, DuBosewatercolor, Career Center, Grice hasand charcoal. His decades of experience in law enforcement including arts-rich environment that draws in both locals and visitors. oil, graphite, the positive impact they have on our schools built for thecreativity Law Enforcement program from and a passion for making a difference in passion has been a driving force in his life since Beyond exhibitions, LMAG offers a robust lineup of classes the ground up. The program introduces the lives of young people. Today, as the childhood. and community. tunedtoeach week asemerging we and workshopsStay designed nurture both talstudents to has the always field of been law enforcement, 2024-2025 F.E. DuBose Career Center shareent their of dedication and excelandstories experienced artists. LMAG’s upcoming September “Art a part of my daily life,” Teacher of the Year, Grice’s journey reflects emphasizing both theoretical knowlsaid.practical “My family continually edge and skills.

Over two inspires years, me to push lence.class schedule includes workshops on a variety of art forms, an unwavering commitment to teaching, Register including marbled dipped mugs and blow-dryer blow out to think outside box, and to create sometopics suchthe as constitustudents study mentoring, and shaping the next genera- boundaries, paint pour. These classes cater to all levels of experience, thing original. ” tional amendments, arrest and search tion of law enforcement professionals.

Krystina Timmons, a 1995 gradufrom beginners to advanced artists looking to refine their Register cites ajustice, diversecourt arraysystems, of artistic influences, procedures, juvenile A native of Hilton Head Island, ate of East Clarendon High School, has and physical fitness for law enforcement Grice’s path Artisan has beenGallery) defined by groundSee GALLERY, Page 4 (Photo C/O Lake Marion officers. come full circle in her career, now standing breaking accomplishments. She was the first African American female criminal “We cover an array of topics to prepare as one of Clarendon County’s most distinEDUCATION EDUCATION See GRICE, Page 4

BY MELIS mtscreport

Th School Boa

guished educators. Timmons, who currently

at her alma mater, East Clarendon County School District SCDE launches ‘Free to Focus Clarendonteaches Middle High School, was recently honored (Photos C/O Krystina Timmons) the school’s Teacher Lesley of the Year. HerWatson, jourYear: SC’ program, provides resources Teacher ofasneythe converge. Though now a resident of Florence to this accolade is deeply rooted in her County, her heart and career remain tied to Manning upbringing, EarlyherChildhood Center family, and the profound for parents and educators Clarendon. father, Van Barrineau. have on our schools and community.

BY MELISSA MCCOY influence of her late

(Photos C/O Duke Energy) The Vision by Design food bank, located

mtscreporter@gmail.com The Duke Energy Foundation

awarded a surprise $1,000 grant to Vision

by Design to support its Meals on Wheels program, part of a larger initiative to address food insecurity ahead of the Thanksgiving

at 206 S. Church St., operates on Mondays,

mtscreporter@gmail.com

to 2 p.m., and by appointment on Fridays.

South Carolina Department of The grant will bolster theThe nonprof-

Education has taken another step toward en-

it’s mission of deliveringhancing meals and combatstudent focus and improving academic ing hunger in the community. outcomes by launching the “Free to Focus

initiative.

Duke Energy’sSC” giving initiativeThis willcomprehensive program,

culminate in additional surprise grant an-

gifts the foundation is providing this month,

nouncements on Givingsource Tuesday, continuing hub for parents, educators, and students,

programs across the region.

“We are forever grateful for the

outpouring of love from Duke Energy!” said Kiz Everette, Director of Vision by Design.

“Food bank numbers are drastically increasing, so any donations are greatly needed.”

teachers for their unwavering commitment to their students, their passion for teaching, and the positive impact they

developed alongside a statewide bell-to-bell cell phone ban in schools, provides a centralized re-

holiday. The grant is one of over 50 surprise totaling more than $500,000 for feeding

A lifelong learner, Timmons pursued Stay each week as we share their “I grew up intuned Clarendon County, her passion for education at Francis Marion stories of dedication and excellence. and I actually graduated from East ClarenUniversity, where she earned her degree in The Manning Times is proud don High School,” she said,Lesley reflecting ona kindergarten elementary education. She later added Middle Watson, to continue this special series celebrather deep connection to the area.

Timmons teacher at Manning Early Childhood ing the outstanding educators who have School English Language Arts to her credenCenter, has been named one of Clarendon been named the Clarendon County grew up in the rural community of Barritials and is currently working on her Master County School District’s Teachers of the Teachers of the Year for 2024.

We aim to neau, a place where the borders of Florence, Year, a recognition that reflects her pasrecognize and thank these remarkable See TIMMONS, Page 4 Williamsburg, and Clarendon counties

BY MELISSA MCCOY

Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. mtscreporter@gmail.com

offering updated guidance, tools, and support to alleviating the company’s commitment

sion for education, deep-rooted faith, and innovative teaching style.

For Watson, teaching is more

as schools implement the new policy. food insecurity during the holiday season.

The “Free to Focus SC” program Pictured at the grant presentation were (Photo C/O SCDE) stems from a new policy approved by the South representatives from Vision

by Design and Carolina Board of Education that will prohibit of smartphone use on student performance and well-being. Many South Carolina edustudents from using cell phones and other Duke Energy, celebrating the partnership cators reported that cell phones contribute personal devices during school hours. that will provide criticalThe support to those in ban, which takes effect in January 2025, is to behavioral issues such as cyberbullying, (Photo C/O Ladell Grice) need. cheating, and reduced engagement in the designed to eliminate digital distractions and classroom. By removing the distraction create a more focused learning environment.

Under the policy, students will not be allowed of personal devices, schools aim to create to access their phones from the time they arrive a setting where students can develop the at school until they are dismissed in the after- skills necessary to succeed in college, careers, and life. noon.

State Superintendent of Educahigh,The newlowrule was developed after extensive research highlighted the negative effects See FOCUS, Page 4

94 high, 72 low

FORECAST

61

38

LEARN ABOUT YOUR COUNTY!

FORECAST

(Photo C/O Lesley Watson)

See WATSON, Page 5

A great article that draws attention to the hard work and dedication our educators put to be the best among the best.

81 into 69their craft LEARN ABOUT YOUR COUNTY! All teachers deserve to be publicly recognized for their work, but especially those who go above and beyond the call. high,

low

FORECAST

SERIES OF ARTICLES

DIVISIONS B & C COMBINED

THIRD PLACE

Andrea Kelley & Norm Cannada The Journal, Seneca

SECOND PLACE

Evan McKenna & Mary Dimitrov The Island Packet

SERIES OF ARTICLES

DIVISIONS B & C COMBINED

FIRST PLACE

Sarah Haselhorst (1993-2024)

The Island Packet Very interesting! Enjoyed reading. Comments from homeowners hit me…

SERIES OF ARTICLES

DIVISION A

THIRD PLACE

Hillary Flynn & Maura Turcotte The Post and Courier

https://www.postandcourier.com/education-lab/oceanside-charter-education-carolina-erskine-institute-limestoneweaver/article_�b����f�-����-��ef-�f�c-e��a��bae��b.html

Oceanside Collegiate Academy will stay open. Here's why.

.

), '&'(

The Charter Institute at Erskine reversed its vote to revoke Oceanside Collegiate Academy's charter on June ), '&'(.

Oceanside Collegiate Academy's school district reversed its decision to close the charter school during a June � board meeting.

Steven Adamson, board chair of the Charter Institute at Erskine, the district that oversees Oceanside, said the Institute met with Oceanside's board late in the evening on June � and resolved their di�erences.

SECOND PLACE

Joseph Bustos & Anna Wilder The State

SERIES OF ARTICLES

DIVISION A

FIRST PLACE

David Slade and Tony Kukulich The Post and Courier

Good mix of writing and visuals, with captivating intros and thorough storytelling.

BEAT REPORTING

DIVISIONS E & F COMBINED

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE COASTAL OBSERVER

Travis Jenkins The News & Reporter

Charles Swenson Coastal Observer

Vol. XLIII No. 10

Pawleys Island, South Carolina ~ August 15, 2024

$1.50

Pawleys resident sues developer over drainage

By Charles Swenson COASTAL OBSERVER

Thursday Thursday November 30,30, 2023 November 2023

A Pawleys Island woman has filed suit against the country’s largest home builder saying its development next to her home in Parkersville caused flooding on her property that threatens that home.

Deborah Greggs said in a suit filed in Circuit Court that her problems began when D.R. Horton Inc. started its Hammock Cove development in 2019. There are two stormwater retention ponds near her property.

She “has experienced excessive water run-off onto her property and Plaintiff’s property can no longer drain

COASTAL OBSERVER

Pawleys Island Pawleys Island South Carolina South Carolina

properly,” according to the suit.

Greggs has tried for years to get the developer and Georgetown County to fix the problems at the home that she started building in 1986.

“Nobody has done anything,” she said.

Her suit comes as Georgetown County is due to hold a public hearing Aug. 21 on the stormwater permit for the Sweet Grass West development adjacent to Hammock Cove. Residents there said the proposed development will exacerbate their drainage problems in Hammock Cove.

The county approved plans for the 86-lot Hammock See “Suit,” Page 4

Charles Swenson/Coastal Observer

The stormwater pond next to the Greggs home.

SALES TAX

Appeals court affirms order to restore dune

County kicks off public meetings to explain plan forAextra 2 cents

By Charles Swenson COASTAL OBSERVER

COASTAL OBSERVER

Recycling success hinges on public keeping things clean

By Charles Swenson COASTAL OBSERVER

The day after Thanksgiving, a woman stood at the Pawleys Island recycling center looking puzzled. She explained that she was trying to help her grandchildren clean up.

“Are you supposed to separate the plastic and the glass?” she asked. Told that was the idea, she shrugged. “Well, it’s too late now.”

Behind the rattle of bottles and cans and the thud of paper and cardboard there is sometimes a small voice that taunts recyclers with doubts that the material will make it any farther than the landfill.

The answer is: It depends, said Maureen Mulligan, Georgetown County’s environmentalist.

What actually gets recycled depends in large part on what people put in the bins. A cardboard box that bears the stains from last night’s pizza won’t make the cut. Many varieties of plastic, including styrofoam, can’t be recycled. And even material that could be recycled will be culled from the waste stream if it’s inside a plastic bag when it’s placed in the bin.

“That’s one of our biggest problems: contamination,” Mulligan said.

The county made $91,668 from the sale of recyclables in 2022, the last year for which data is available. That was based on recycling over 5,600 tons of material.

“The water bottles, 1’s and 2’s, you can make money off of,” Mulligan said, referring to the code numbers stamped on the containers to show whether they are made of polyethylene terephthalate (1) or high-density polyethylene (2).

There’s also a strong market for aluminum, she added.

Glass is picked up by a company that recycles it into roofing material. Plastic grocery bags go to Publix. The county doesn’t get any cash, but recycling helps save money in the long run by extending the life of the landfill. n If you go by the map, the highest natural feature in Georgetown County is something over 75 feet and unlikely

Owners of toan oceanfront lot change.

If you follow the numbers, at North Litchfield must the highest point is morerepair than 100 feet and growing. the dune they demolished The Georgetown County in landfill that opened 25 years was forecast to reach 150folorder to build ago a new house, feet by 2018. The state Department from of Health and Environlowing a ruling the state mental Control estimates that the landfill has about another Court of Appeals. nine years of life, based on the 75,772 tons collected in 2022.

The three-judge panel But the plans call for shift-uping the disposal to an adjacent site, filling a valley between two held a decision from Georgeexisting mountains of trash.

The site, part of a 414-acre comtown County’splex, master in equity, is expected to last another 40 years, Mulligan said.

Joe Crosby, that the has work done Recycling always been part of the strategy. The county in 2020 violated aa trash deed restricreplaced shredder with a sorting machine in 1994 before the current landfill opened. The tion. materials recovery facility has changed little on the inside.

On The panel reversed Crosby’s the outside, a pile of recyclables toward the eaves waitruling that thestretches deed restrictions ing to be run through the sorter.

“This is one of the things we could not be really enforced need to upgrade,”by Mulli- the gan said.

The sorting has to be done neighbors. by hand from a 50-foot-long conveyor belt.

Horry Countyand The owners, Robert has a 5,000-foot conveyor and Aluminum items are separated mechaniHolly McManus, have asked for and cardcally. Mulligan applied for a $6 million grant to upgrade the faboard are a rehearing. cility, but was unsuccessful. baled for “The technology hasn’t pickup at changed,” said of the agThe couple, asshe Shoestring the landfill. ing machine. “Which is kind of At top, keep- sad to me. There has to be some Retreating LLC, bought the lot on material other way. out of the Staff estimated it would Summertime Lane in 2019 after take three weeks to sort the pile county’s outside the building. This sumgrowing the previous owner, Katherine mer, the pile was twice as high, landfill is and DHEC ordered the county goal of to put it in the landfill because Haun,one applied to Georgetown the proit was a safety hazard. gram.

At permission That’s why residents need County for to subdileft, mixed to be aware of how they sort recyclables, Mulligan said. recyclables vide the property.

She submit“They call it ‘wishful reawait sortcycling,’ ” she said, when peoing. Somesaying ted a form there ple throw things inwere the bin no will end up that have to be removed and in the landdeed restrictions prohibitdumpedthat in the landfill. fill. Below, n The county’s Environed the Maureen subdivision. mental Education Center is loMulligan, cated at the landfill. Mulligan the county The neighbors appealed hopes to create an exhibit on environthe waste stream that will help mentalist, atstaff’s the zoning approval of explain the need for people to the top of a reduce consumption. County capped disthe subdivision thedispose Planresidentstocurrently posal site. of an average of 4.3 pounds of trash each day. ning Commission.

The neighIn the meantime, she conducts tours landfill.

Her bors, members of of the the Salley degree is in botany and she has harvested seeds from native family, are part MAC Coastplantsof to landscape around the and education center. al Properties, office which She has writtenowns a grant for an the exhibit she envisions.

“I hope to get this up to adjacent lot, said deed restricwhere people can come,” Mulligan said. tions placed on the property in the 1950s prevented the subdivision.

The McManuses, through their attorney, argued that the restrictions no longer applied because the Salley family had waived them in the 1970s to subdivide their own property, which created the lot that See “Dune,” Page 3

Pawleys Island Pawleys Island South South Carolina Carolina

ENVIRONMENT | Winyah Bay

Shark infested waters

fter a morning spent tagging a blacktip shark and three sandbar sharks, including one that stretched to 6 feet in length, Dan Abel decided they would need a bigger boat.

It wasn’t for the sharks, but for the students.

There are 32 students in the course OBSERVER Abel teaches at Coastal COASTAL Carolina University on the biology of sharks. A hallmark of the class is a trip down Winyah Bay to capture, tag and release sharks. It serves as hands-on experience and contributes to Abel’s ongoing research.

But this semester’s cruises have fallen prey to weather and mechanical problems with the university’s 29-foot pontoon boat, which needs a new motor.

“It’s a challenge to get marine biology students on the water,” Abel said.

His team got there last week in a 23-foot boat with a cabin borrowed from the University of South Carolina’s Baruch Marine Institute. With Abel, three students, a captain and a passenger, there wasn’t much room on the rear deck for the floats, the rack of hooks, the rope and the other equipment that they use to capture and assess the sharks, who were each kept temporarily in a fish box at the stern. The pontoon boat usually takes about a dozen students along with their gear.

The gear is used to set three long-line fishing rigs with 25 hooks each just before the high tide. One is set near South Island about 4 miles inside Winyah Bay from the Atlantic Ocean.

Two more are set about a mile inside the bay on opposite sides of the shipping channel near the Georgetown Lighthouse. A fourth line with a single large hook is set in slightly deeper water.

The smaller hooks are baited with mackerel. The larger one holds half a red drum.

“The best bait to catch a shark is another shark,” Abel said.

That’s part of what makes Winyah Bay an important nursery for sharks, particularly the sandbar shark, which is uniquely tolerant of the mix of salt and fresh water in the bay.

The young sandbars can feed and grow without being eaten by larger sharks that need the higher salinity.

The species was overfished and, because it takes 15 years for them to reach maturity, is only recovering slowly.

“We don’t know how many sharks there are in here,” Abel said, looking around the lower bay. “We’ve tagged thousands and rarely catch one we’ve tagged.”

The tags are registered with the National Marine Fisheries Service. The CCU Shark Team captured a tagged sandbar shark in May and learned it had been tagged the previous September Dan Abel shows how the shark’s jaw hinge works. “This doesn’t hurt the animal at all,” he just 3 nautical miles away.

“Our record is a shark that said. It was soon back in the water after being measured and tagged. was at large for three and a half years and was caught in Jupiter, Fla.,” Abel said. “They come back here year after year.”

The fall semester is the peak season for Abel’s work. When the water temperature drops below 70 degrees and the days grow short, the sharks head south. So the opportunity to engage students in the work is fleeting.

“It’s about finding the right combination of weather, tides, sharks and students,” Abel said.

This will be his last fall season on the bay. Abel is due to retire at the end of the academic year. He is hopeful that his successor will keep the project going.

“Most students who come to Coastal for marine biology want hands-on experience,” Abel said. “If I can give them that experience early in their tenure, it really changes their trajectory.”

Ara McClanahan, above right, replaces the long-line hooks as the boat heads The students on the boat back to Georgetown. At right, the team measures the sandbar shark that was too last week were all veterans. In big to haul into the boat. a larger boat, they would dem-

By Charles Swenson It’s one sign of a healthy ecosystem

Photos by Charles Swenson/Coastal Observer

Waste not …

COASTAL OBSERVER

NORTH LITCHFIELD

By Charles Swenson

ENVIRONMENT

Thursday Thursday September 12, 2024 July 11, 2024

Charles Swenson/Coastal Observer

A loggerhead hatchling crosses Springs Avenue. Ten others died on the road.

ENVIRONMENT | Lights lead hatchlings astray

Why did the turtle cross the road?

Answer is no joke to nest monitors

By Charles Swenson COASTAL OBSERVER

Fueled by the yolk from its egg and millions of years of instinct, a loggerhead sea turtle hatchling scrambled across the wet pavement on Springs Avenue.

It should have been heading toward the ocean. Instead, it climbed a gravel parking space on the edge of Pawleys Creek.

Blocked by landscape timbers, it turned back to the road, skirted a stormwater drain and swam briefly through the water pooled on the side of the road.

“There’s a name for it. DNR calls it disorientation,” said Rick Scott, referring to the state Department of Natural Re-

TROPICAL STORM

Even with reduced rain,

A jogger stops to snap a picture of the stray hatchling.

sources.

He heads the sea turtle monitoring group SCUTE, which operates with permits from the agency.

The cause was outdoor lighting. The result was evident on Springs Avenue last week.

After the hatchling emerged from the stormwater, the wind from Tropical Storm Debby caught it and flipped it on its back. The turtle righted itself and kept crawling.

The turtle was lucky. Ten other hatchlings from a nest that contained 142 eggs lay dead on the road.

Before the same fate befell the last hatchling, Scott arrived, put on rubber gloves and See “Turtles,” Page 4

Walt Ackerman knows how he plans to vote on two sales tax referendum questions that will be on November’s ballot.

He’s doing his best not to let the public know.

The first of nine meetings planned to explain the sale tax proposals between now and Election Day drew four voters to the auditorium at the former Choppee High School this week. There were also six county officials in the audience.

Under state law, public resources cannot be used to advocate for or against the ballot initiatives. They can be used to inform the public, which is what Ackerman, the county’s director of Administrative Services, will do over the next two months at venues around the county.

Meetings will be held Aug. 21 at the Murrells Inlet Community Center and Aug. 26 at the Waccamaw Library.

A 1-cent local option sales tax is proposed to offset a portion of the tax the county now collects on land, buildings and vehicles. If approved, it will stay in place until rescinded through another referendum.

A 1-cent capital projects sales tax will raise about $74 million over eight years for 22 infrastructure projects. If there is additional revenue after those projects are completed, it will be used for 19 contingency projects, all of which will be listed in order of priority on the ballot.

See “Sales tax,” Page 3

Photos by Charles Swenson/Coastal Observer

Kayli Shenk and Shane Molander prepare to tag a 6-foot sandbar shark caught last week.

onstrate the process, then help to supervise the first-time students.

Kayli Shenk grew up in central Virginia. Her interest in sharks began when “I started learning about how they are demonized and abused,” she said.

“I can do something about it.”

Ara McClanahan got a shark book when she was a child growing up on the coast of North Carolina. “I was terrified,” she said.

She was also intrigued and started learning more.

She earned an undergraduate degree at Appalachian State and worked at the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores.

She’s now working on her master’s degree at Coastal Carolina.

McClanahan helped bait hooks and record data on the trip. She didn’t haul the lines because she was still nursing a broken finger caused by the slap of a shark’s tail.

Shane Molander joined the shark crew after meeting Abel on campus. He grew up in Massachusetts. “I’ve been around boats all my life,” he said.

While he is working on a postgraduate degree in wetlands, he is writing his thesis on sharks.

“We’ve won him over to the shark side,” Abel said.

Data collected from the shark project has been used in student papers as well as Abel’s own writing. That includes two books published this year: “The Lives of Sharks,” written with Dean Grubbs; and “Sharkpedia,” a pocket-sized compendium of shark lore.

(Both are available online from Princeton University Press.)

Another, “Shark: The Illustrated Biography,” with Sophie Maycock, is due to be published next year.

The project isn’t only about sharks. It exposes the students to research methods, the ecology of Winyah Bay and the other creatures that live there.

“It highlights the importance of Winyah Bay,” Abel said.

A newspaper in all that the word implies, devoted to the best interests of the people of Cherokee County.

GAFFNEY, S.C.

BEAT REPORTING

75 CENTS

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2024

‘Monsters’ are guilty POINT BLANK

DIVISIONS E & F COMBINED

A Ledger reader submitted three questions related to Cherokee County Council. Administrator Merv Bishop provided the answers.

Q1. Has county council considered imposing impact fees on all the new developments springing up?

A. There has been some discussion on looking into impact fees as Cherokee County continues to grow. This would help with the demands placed on our infrastructure that continue to rise. Eventually, these demands will require additional improvements to maintain adequate levels of public service.

Q2. What ever happened to the airport dream?

A. There have been many times that the airport

By ABBIE SOSSAMON has been brought up, it’s just grounded at this time.

Q3. A 500k grant was awarded to the county for Ledger News Editor the study of a rec site in Blacksburg off Tribal abbie@gaffneyledger.com Road. Has that been done and if not how will that grant money be spent?

A. The study is scheduled to be presented to A jury found a mother,County Council at the first of the year.

FIRST PLACE

Abbie Sossamon The Gaffney Ledger

GAFFNEY, S.C.

www.gaffneyledger.com

father and brother guilty of If you have a question about anything murder Thursday afternoon in of public interest, email it to: cody@gaffneyledger.com a case that’s been described as and we’ll try to find the answer. the most horrific instance of child abuse investigators have ever dealt with.

Bobbie Jo Baynard, David Baynard and Edward Baynard Bobbie Jo were all convicted of murder, child abuse with great bodily injury and unlawful neglect of a child from the 2022 death of

By LARRY HILLIARD 14-year-old Heather Baynard.

Ledger Staff Writer Heather was born at 28 larry@gaffneyledger.com weeks gestation and suffered Cameo Wilson is hoping to make more than a cameo from numerous medicalappearance con- in the special election to fill the unexpired term ditions including cerebral of former District 1 Gaffney City Councilman Titus Dawkins. palsy, seizures, a chronicWilson, lung who filed Friday, joins Kathy Littlejohn and Betty Sarratt Bonner on the ballot. disease that required a tracheIn a special called meeting in September, Dawkins ostomy, and she had a feeding was removed from office by Gaffney City Council for David failing to live in the district he represents. tube. She required 24/7 care.

At the time of the hearing, Dawkins’ attorney said On April 11, 2022, Heather that Dawkins would run again in the special election, but he didn’t file. was carried unresponsive into Wilson is a supervisor at the Wal-Mart distribution Spartanburg Regional “like a center.

“My vision for District 1 includes expanded recresack of potatoes” by her father, ational opportunities, crime reduction resources, and David Baynard. Heathergreater wassupport for our residents and businesses,” Wilsaid. “I’m committed to assisting our elderly compronounced dead at the son hospimunity with transportation, medical assistance, and tal, but evidence shown yard at trial maintenance. Together, we can change the future of District 1 by rebuilding our community, restoring proved her death occurred behope, and moving forward together.” fore she was taken from her Littlejohn is a former school district employee who a nonprofit that offers a variety of services to Cherokee County home.runs people in need.

She also l See MONSTERS, Page 10was a victim’s advocate.

Third candidate throws her hat into the ring Special election for city council

BROAD RIVER BEACH Hurricane Helene left numerous sandy beaches along the Broad River like this one at the 99 Islands boat ramp below the hydro station. Many of the river’s islands are no longer surrounded by water like the one in the Google Earth screen shot at left. The sand washed in by the hurricane’s floodwaters completely filled in the channel that separated the island from the mainland.

The area inside the black lines is now all sand and at least 50 yards wide. Those who spend a lot of time on the river tell The Ledger that it will be washed away in the next flood.

(Ledger photo by CODY SOSSAMON)

Littlejohn said she’s spent most of her life “helping people” so it seemed only natural to continue that work as a city council member.

Bonner is retired from BMW and has worked helping the disabled.

She said she’s running to be a “voice of the people.”

The special election will be on New Year’s Eve Dec. 31. A runoff, if necessary, will be on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025.

The filing period for candidates ended at noon on Monday. Candidates must be a registered voter and resident of District 1 at least 30 days prior to the election.

Early voting will begin Monday, Dec. 16 and close Friday, Dec. 27.

Edward

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2024

www.gaffneyledger.com

75 CENTS

PARENTS AND BROTHER OF DISABLED GIRL ON TRIAL FOR MURDER

By ABBIE SOSSAMON Ledger News Editor abbie@gaffneyledger.com

“This was something I’ve never seen in 31 years.”

Dr. Ryan Rider made that statement in describing the condition he saw 14-year-old Heather Baynard in on the night of her death.

Heather, a special needs child, died April 11, 2022.

Her parents, David and Bobbi Jo Baynard, and brother, Edward Baynard, are on trial this week charged with murder, felony child abuse and child neglect.

Dr. Rider was the emergency room doctor on duty when Heather’s parents brought her to Spartanburg Regional Medical Center.

Rider described Heather’s body as listless and lifeless, and noted her skin was grey. He stated her body was covered in bruises and the flesh on her lower extremities was gone.

“It looked like raw meat,” Dr. Rider said, apologizing for the gruesome description.

According to Rider, the decay of flesh happens when there is a lack of oxygen. The body first protects vital The Baynard’s entire house was filled with trash. organs including the brain, heart and lungs and the oxygen is taken away from other areas of the body which down to 30%. Bobbi then told Fowler that Heather’s can lead to the decay of flesh. hair was wet and matted so she tried to cut out the “This isn’t something that happens overnight,” he mats. said.

Heather’s autopsy revealed those cuts were made During opening arguments, Solicitor Barry Barnette post-mortem, Fowler said. stated David Baynard carried Heather into the emerFowler has worked more than 6,000 cases and said he gency room over his shoulder “like a sack of potatoes” has never seen anything like Heather’s before. and that he had no urgency at all. A video of David enFowler and investigators with the Cherokee County tering the hospital was shown to the jury.

Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) went to the Baynard’s home When Cherokee County Coroner Dennis Fowler arearly on April 12, 2022. What they found was unimaginrived at the hospital the night of Heather’s death, he able living conditions — trash piled 4 feet high in some could tell she had not been taken care of. Fowler obplaces, soiled diapers, animal feces and urine, roaches, served lesions, marks, and bites on Heather’s body flies, fleas, and cobwebs. from either insects or animals. He also noted she had “It smelled unlike any other smell I’ve ever smelled,” swollen genitalia, a urine-soaked diaper and a stocking Fowler said. cap on her head that was blood-stained. had totowear respirators andofTyvek While speaking with the parents at the hospital, A newspaper in all that the wordInvestigators implies, devoted the best interests the people of Cherokee Coun suits to process the home.

Fowler said Bobbi Jo put Heather into the bathtub to 75 CE GAFFNEY, S.C. l Seewww.gaffneyledger.com MURDER, Page 8 try and stimulate her after she noticed her oxygen was

GUILTY

FRIDAY, JULY 26, 2024

Man die after his pickup i T-boned b tractor-tra

By ABBIE SOSSAMON Ledger News Editor abbie@gaffneyledger.com A jury needed less than 30 minutes to find a Gaffney man guilty of murder and 1st-degree burglary Thursday.

Jerome William Rainey, 60, was on trial in Cherokee County Court of General Sessions this week for the July 8, 2021, death of his former girlfriend, Ruby Sizemore Brown, who officials said he brutally beat in front of Brown’s 92-year-old mother.

Before the trial started, Rainey fired his court-appointed lawyer and decided to represent himself.

On July 8, 2021, at 1:48 a.m. City of Gaffney police were dispatched to 230 Camellia Circle for a break-in in progress. Brown’s mother called 9-1-1 and said her daughter was beaten, and ultimately told dispatchers the offender was Jerome Rainey. Rainey used a pair of pruning shears to break into Brown’s window and fled the scene before officers arrived. In the 9-1-1 call, jurors l See GUILTY, PAGE 2

Trustees expand search Town councilman faces CityHOMECOMING administrator underpaid compared to others BHS Jasper County new superintendent Outstanding coverage of acharge difficultinand emotional trial. This journalist has a gift to takeforcomplicated information and turn it into an easy read. Excellent job.

By SCOTT POWELL Ledger Staff Writer

By SCOTT POWELL Ledger Staff Writer

By LARRY HILLIARD Ledger Staff Writer

Jerome Rainey is escorted by Deputy Cedric Dunn from the courtroom after being found guilty of murder Thursday.

(Ledger photo by ABBIE SOSSAMON)

Gaffney, makes 50% more, or a whopping $151,961 a year. Fountain Inn, with a pop-

paid at $253,000 a year.

Only Port Royal, with a population of 14,220,

cantly more than Taylor. Beaufort, with a population of 13,607, pays its administrator $121,277 a year; and Cayce, with a population

at $96,818; slightly more than Assistant Administrator/Fire Chief Jamie Caggiano at $95,488.

Police Chief Gerald Knight earns $83,050,

larry@gaffneyledger.com ulation only 10,416,Macy pays itsHames, administrator pays its administrator lessEmily than Taylor at Blacksburg High Homecoming Court (from leftofto right): Bella Crocker, Paris Mayes, Walker, $147,900 a year. $79,160.

Isabelle Cole, Kaylan Dawkins, Lucy Thayer, Reagan Elliott, Egypt Camp, and Lacey Shelton. The homecoming Longtime Gaffney Administrator James Administrators of two more cities with popAssistant Administrator and engineer Scott Taylor appears to be quite a bargain. to Gaffney also7:30 earn p.m. signifi-in T.A. Keller is the second highest paid city employee football game is scheduled to be playedulations Friday,similar November 1 at Campbell Stadium.

Taylor is the top wage earner on the city payroll, making just under $100,000 at $99,752 — and is one of only six city employees to

A Gaffney man w killed in a two-vehic lision Thursday mo Cherokee County ner Dennis Fowler i fied the victim as Benjamin Handsom White, 65.

White was the dri and lone occupant o 1998 Ford pick-up tr that was attempting turn left onto U.S. H way 29 from south G River Road at 8:50 a.m. Fowler said Wh vehicle was T-boned the driver’s door by tractor-trailer heade South on U.S. 29.

White was entrap the wreckage for a s time before being fr EMS and fire depar personnel. He was t ported by ambulanc Spartanburg Medic Center where he die the emergency depa

BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION D

THIRD PLACE

April Santana The Post and Courier Columbia/ Free Times

SECOND PLACE

Tiffany Tan The Post and Courier Columbia/ Free Times

BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION D

FIRST PLACE

Charles D. Perry The Post and Courier Myrtle Beach/ Georgetown Times

Good job covering this beat with a great story of a beloved citizen.

BEAT REPORTING

DIVISIONS B & C COMBINED

THIRD PLACE Matthew Robertson Morning News

SECOND PLACE Bianca Moorman Aiken Standard

BEAT REPORTING

DIVISIONS B & C COMBINED

FIRST PLACE

Bianca Moorman Aiken Standard

Compelling writing and connects readers to the people involved in these cases. The writer goes above to connect readers to the individuals affected where it definitely could be easy to reference the lawsuits.

BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION A

THIRD PLACE Ted Clifford The State

SECOND PLACE John Monk The State

BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION A

FIRST PLACE

Kalyn Oyer The Post and Courier

These were great! These stories immersed me in history and kept me reading. Very good writing.

gallery walks and tours was on hand to answer of the three high schools citizen questions and

THE N&R

SEE CHS/PAGE A4

GOVERNMENT BEAT REPORTING

Union ARP Sept. 11 ceremony one of remembrance, gratitude

DIVISION F

BY BRIAN GARNER

BGARNER@ONLINECHESTER.COM

In his sermon during the 9-11 observance at Union ARP, Pastor Neely Gaston that Ctold H E Sthe T E congregation R.COM he found out 65 million Americans today may not have remembered what happened BURRITOSon FORSeptember BREAKFAST | PAGE B2 11, 2001 because they were six years of age or younger.

On September 11, 2024, some 23 years later, the congregation and pastor of Union ARP did their best to help people never forget.

Union ARP along with the help of Luck Stone, of fered Chester County first responders a BBQ lunch, followed by a memorial ser vice where the sacrifices of the first responders during 9-11

metown n ewspaper s inCe 1869

DIVAS ON A DIME

School district: Online threats not legitimate FROM STAFF REPORTS

The Chester County School District addressed online threats that have been circulating online in recent weeks.

In a social media post made on Friday, the District said it was aware

of recent online threats made towards schools in several surrounding districts and states. “Today, we received reports that some of these posts reference schools in our district.

Thu, Feb. 29, 2024 | ©2023 Times Publishing Company Inc. | Volume 142, No. 9

The Manning Times BUSINESS

Handmade piñatas create HopeHealth welcomes new provider lasting memories HopeHealth welcomes Margaret A. Evans, MSPAS,

PA-C, a physician assistant serving patients of Access Hope in See HOPEHEALTH, Page 4 $1.00

SECOND PLACE

THIRD PLACE

COMMUNITY

Manning resident’s patriotic style shines through in life and wardrobe

Gaston: 1st responders are called to their duty

ONLINECHESTER.COM

PAGE B2

GF FIRE MOU A HOT TOPIC | PAGE B1

Brian Garner The NewsYEAR & Reporter ONE

BY BRIAN GARNER

ISSUE 39 • 2 SEC TIONS, 16 PAGES

Red, White and Blue (sky)

BY MELISSA MCCOY mtscreporter@gmail.com

GREAT FALLS

BGARNER@ONLINECHESTER.COM

the service, and ended up reaching back into history to compare those of our neighbors who keep us safe as firefighters, law enforcement and EMTs to the original Minutemen,

Union ARP Pastor Neely Gaston started his sermon at the 9-11 Service of Remembrance and Gratitude by thankE D N E S D A Y, J U LY 3 , 2 0 2 4 • $ 1 ing the Wfirst responders SEE GASTON/PAGE A4 in the church attending

BY MELISSA MCCOY & MARIA FLEITAS mtscreporter@gmail.com The Manning Times wrote this story in English, and then one of our interns translated it to Spanish. We’ve included both versions out of respect for Amelia Siguan de Balon, whose main language is Spanish.

Right: An American flag is suspended from the Richburg Fire Department Tower 100 fire engine as it stands sentinel over the Sept. 11 observances taking place inside Union ARP Church.

Since moving to the area over 26 years ago, Amelia Siguan de Balon has never stopped creating.

She began by building a life for herself and her growing family in the town of Turbeville. For years, she worked odd jobs and as a day laborer. Now, she has

Summerton Mayor Pro Tem leads his last council meeting

BY BILL MARION/SPECIAL TO THE N&R

The earlier June 28 Live After Five in downtown Chester kicked off the July 4th celebration a little early. The street festival was capped by an impressive fireworks show.

Chester Mayor Carlos Williams took a moment recently to reflect on his first year in office.

Chester mayor, county administrator reflect on their first year in positions

‘Another year of labor, and labor not in vain’

BY BRIAN GARNER/THE N&R

Chester County Administrator Brian Hester looks over Second countyrejoices emergencyat plans.

OldtheZion their arrest made 14th annual Reunion/Revival in April

BY BRIAN GARNER murder BGARNER@ONLINECHESTER.COM exclusive inter view What we did, an case that was par tly a status “We have met on these ground one more update time,” said Old Zion Paul Halsellville Cem- and par tly an what weSt.learned, after action repor t and etery Association (OZSPHCA) President what can and friends Jimmy Wright to thewe members of a debrief on what the Zioncan do better the county R the combined congregations of the Old do better Baptist time. And weathdAME Zion and St. Paul Halsellvillenext

Hester on Helene

BY TRAVIS JENKINS

TJENKINS@ONLINECHESTER.COM

An arrest was made last week in relation to an April murder case.

According to the South Carolina law Enforcement Division (SLED), John Bennent Bland, 18, was arrested on June 28 on charges of accessor y after the fact to murder and obstructing justice.

BY BRIAN GARNER

cutting the grass”.

That sor t of hands-on Editor’s Note: Just a few approach has charactermonths after newly-hired ized Williams’ first year in Chester County Admin- office as mayor of the City i s t r a t o r B r i a n H e s t e r of Chester.

Two days after the City was taking his seat, newly-elected City of Chester of Chester passed a budMayor Carlos Williams get with a $400,000 fund was beginning his lead- balance, Mayor Williams ership of the City. Both talked about the accomcounty and city leaders plishments in the city, how recently reflected on their the atmosphere in Chester first year in those posi- is changing for the better and discussed the chaltions.

A mor ning with the lenges still to be faced.

Standing on the steps Mayor: Chester Mayor Carlos of City Hall, Mayor WilWilliams reflects on his liams was full of good first year in office, talks news about the City budaccomplishments, chal- get, which was passed last

BY BRIANMonday GARNER/THE N&RJune night at the lenges Chester Mayor Carlos council meeting.

“The history of the City Williams was late to his recent interview with The over the last 15 or 20 years N&R — he had stopped has been the city was misout at the city’s Evergreen managing funds or not Cemetery “to check on the SEE MAYOR/PAGE A2 fellas who were out there BGARNER@ONLINECHESTER.COM

BRIANitGARNER Church. AndBY indeed, was another (the 14th er predictions indicate BGARNER@ONLINECHESTER.COM in fact) “Great Camp Meeting on thethat Hill”‘next at Eumon Chisholm, time’ might be foreground, joins in the singing at the Old Zion Heritage Site. Admin- sooner than we14th think. the annual Old Zion Reunion/Revival and Camp Chester County SEE ARREST / PAGE A2 istrator Brian Hester sat Meeting. Reunion organizer James “Jimmy” Wright SEE HESTER /PAGE SEE REJOICE down with The/PAGE N&R A2 for watches inA4 the background.

Council again shoots down

Chester County Administrator Brian Hester recently gave a talk to the Chester Development Association on how his first year in the administrator position went.

Chester County Administrator Brian Hester BY BRIAN GARNER/THE N&R At the on firsthis Mayor’s Roundtable reflects Year One (plus) discussion at Hillside

Restaurant, Great Falls Mayor Josh Brantley (seated) lisBY BRIAN GARNER in Greenville Countens as ChesterBrown Mayor Carlos Williams describes the ty before moving to FlorAfter morecooperation than a year, ida and working his way closer he envisions between the mayors.

Chester County AdminisBGARNER@ONLINECHESTER.COM

through the ranks of the trator Brian Hester final- Por t St. Lucie Sherif f ’s ly got a chance to tell Office, all the way to Chief his stor y to the Chester Deputy, before coming Development Association back home to South Caroat their recent meeting. lina and becoming Chester The first time the CDA County Administrator. asked Hester to provide a Hester said he heard reflection on his first year about the county adminas administrator, Hester istrator position while he was under the weather was employing a headand wasn’t able to make hunter to keep an eye out it. Hester became Chester for police chief positions.

County Administrator in He said his last years March of 2023. Econom- with the Florida sheriff’s ic Development Director officer were in an adminRober t Long said in his istrative capacity, running introduction, starting right an 800-person organization in the middle of the bud- with a $110 million budget, get process, was a tr ue so he saw the post of countrial by fire. ty administrator as being Hester star ted his talk similar. by givingBY a little bit of “Really, the Chief DepBRIAN GARNER his background, which uty job was about people, BGARNER@ONLINECHESTER.COM included growing up in finances, running an orgaTravelers Rest, a stint at nization and relationships, an accounting firm and a and that’s what this job is,” period where he worked SEE for Sherif f Johnny Mack SEE HESTER/PAGE A2

‘We are here tonight to become friends’ Mayors meet in roundtable discussion

The tables wer en’t round, but they were

solid. So was the discussion.

Chester Mayor Carlos Williams invited the mayors of the other municipalities in Chester County to a roundtable discussion.

MAYORS/PAGE A3

The Summerton Town Council convened for a regularly scheduled meeting on Feb. 13. It was the first meeting held since the sudden death of Mayor Tony Junious last month. As Darion Canty, Mayor Pro Tem, sat in the center seat, he seemed overwhelmed by the absence of his colleague and friend.

“It’s just very hard sitting up here tonight ... it’s been a rough couple weeks for us, but we managed to press on and move forward. So, thank each and every one of you for being here tonight,” Canty said.

The meeting was called to order, the invocation was read by Councilman James Lloyd, and the notification to media was confirmed. Before the pledge of allegiance, Councilman Keith Bowman asked for a moment of silence for Junious. Canty also addressed the crowd regarding his future career plans.

“I’ll be here until the April special election, until whoever decides to put their name in the hat for mayor. It will not be me. Tonight, actually, is going to be my last night [at council].” Canty explained that he was offered an opportunity to further his career in healthcare and accepted the position. He expressed his gratitude to the town of Summerton for allowing him to serve. “It’s been a great two years for me to sit here on this council. Along with all my council members and the late mayor, we’ve done a lot of great things in this town.” Canty ended his remarks with his

CRIME

SPORTS

Three Clarendon students sign sports contracts with colleges

BY LEIGH ANN MAYNARD mtscreporter@gmail.com

(Photos C/O Cindy Risher)

PARK

Taw Caw Park in Summerton completes major renovations to boardwalk and piers

On Feb. 7, high school seniors Josiah Burson and Thomas Sumpter from Laurence Manning Academy signed with Erskine College.

On Feb. 21, senior Kole Elliott from Clarendon Hall Director of Clarendon County Parks and Recreation.

BY MELISSA MCCOY signed a letter of intent to play football with Erskine College for mtscreporter@gmail.com The project, funded by the recreation departthe 2024 season. ment’s budget, focused on overhauling the two fishing Taw Caw Park in Summerton has undergone the promising piers and the extensive boardwalk, originally constructed extensive Congratulations renovations, addressingto much-needed repairs seniors! to its aging infrastructure, according to Paul McCulloch,

in the late 1970s to early 1980s. “The boardwalk and piers

After this announcement, a representative of the Lighthouse Foundation addressed council about the foundation’s Juneteenth Festival. The foundation is requesting permission to hold the festival on Wednesday, Jun. 19 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Railroad Avenue in Summerton, just as they did last year.

A corresponding parade would travel through the downtown area at 4:30 p.m., starting at Fourth Street to Duke Street, coming down Larry King Highway and then from the highway to Main Street. The festival will include a pageant to be held on Jun. 1. Girls aged four to 18 are encouraged to participate. Both the pageant and the festival are in need of sponsors and any interested persons can contact the foundation to donate or place an advertisement in the pageant booklet.

Next on the agenda was departmental reports. To begin, Anthony Smith from Public Works, or maintenance, spoke regarding hedging and trimming around town, fixing various water leaks, and pumping flooded areas. “Basically, everything is coming together. One day at a time,” Smith explained.

Canty asked how many outstanding leaks remained and Smith was hopeful that the one remaining leak near the Golden Dragon, a Chinese restaurant on Main St., would be fixed by the end of that week. Smith was also directed by council to trim a large hedge around a stop sign near the Lake Marion See SUMMERTON, Page 5

FIRST RESPONDER

$1.00

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

had reached the end of their useful life after nearly 45 years,” said McCulloch. “We needed to address the wear and tear from storms and falling trees.”

The renovation, which cost approximately $28,000, included replacing decking boards, rails, and See TAW CAW, Page 4

Thu, May 23, 2024 | The Manning Times Company Inc. | Volume 142, No. 14

The Manning Times COUNCIL

Photo C/O Clarendon County Recreational Department

STATE

Summerton elects youngest member council history Southin Carolina Department Town of Summerton Mayor New of Public Health launched July 1 Mac Bagnal Resigns SUMMERTON

BY MELISSA MCCOY mtscreporter@gmail.com

BY MELISSA MCCOY mtscreporter@gmail.com

with his wife.

During his tenure as mayor, Bagnal focused on revitalizing the town by cleaning up public areas, addressing stray dog issues, and improving the overall aesthetic of Summerton. He spearheaded

compassionGround on the breaking job ceremony marks

The driver, later identified as Russell Allen Waynick, 67, also appeared disoriented and had multiple cuts on his hands

BY MELISSA MCCOY and arms. Clarendon County Fire and Res-

innovating to achieve best practices that

Jazlyn Bowman madeour history the younghelphas improve state’sasoverall health est person elected to the Town to of achieve Summerton Council at rankings our goal of becoming 22 years old. the healthiest state in our nation.”

The South Carolina Department In an unexpected announcement Bowman, born andover raised Summerton, is 90 With 2,900inemployees across on June 26th, Mayor Mac Bagnal of Sum- of Public Health (DPH) locations DPH aimsmaking to adopt setofficially to servebegan alongside her father,statewide, Keith Bowman, merton declared his resignation, addressoperations on July 1st, marking a signifia people-first ensuringhisevery them the first father-daughter teamapproach, in the council’s ing the town staff, council, and citizens. cant restructuring of the state’s health and South Carolinian has the access, resources, tory.

Bagnal, previously served as environmental oversight. Formed by Act and information needed to enhance their Bowman, of the Class of 2020 from mayor for eight years, initially elected in 60, DPH will take over the health respon- a graduate health. The department will consist of two Scotts Branch High School, pursued higher education 2014 and then defeated by the late Tony sibilities previously managed by the South core divisions: Health Promotion and SerUniversity Carolina SumterQuality. and Central Junious in the 2022 election. After Junious’ Carolina Department at of the Health and Envi-of South vices, and Healthcare The Health unexpected death in January, Bagnal reCarolina Technical College beforeand starting her own busironmental Control (DHEC).

Promotion Services division will focus turned to office following a special election “Our name may ness.change, She isbut theour owner of Be Greathealth Enterprise LLC, a on Go community and well-being, on April 2nd, narrowly defeating chalcommitment to serving and improving Healthcare Quality division clothing company thatwhile beganthewith her own clothing line will lenger Tim Fry with a vote count of 114 to the lives of everyone in South aim to enhance and healthand hasCarolina expanded to include custom patient designssafety for clients.

99. is stronger than ever,” Reflecting said Dr. Edward care quality across the state.her experion her upbringing, Bowman shared Bagnal was known for his slogan Simmer, interim agency director. “DPH of DPH followsgirl a unaniThe formation ences growing up in Summerton.

“I’m a country at “Make Summerton Great Again” and has mous decision by the South Carolina Legiswill build on DHEC’s legacy, continuously heart,” she said. “I spent a lot of time at my grandparents’ been involved in the community for many shop, which was a community hub. It was a place where years. His efforts have included serving on people gathered after school for snacks. Those memothe Junior Chamber of Commerce, being on the board of Clarendon Hall, directing ries of community togetherness are something I cherish the South Carolina Waterfowl Association, deeply.” and running the Summerton Athletic Club BOWMAN. Newly elected Jazlyn Bowman with her family after her win. (Photo C/O Jazlyn Bowman) See BOWMAN, Page 4

BY MELISSA MCCOY mtscreporter@gmail.com

Clarendon crime blotter is back Briley explains the importance of

BY MELISSA MCCOY mtscreporter@gmail.com

Risher’s wardrobe is a sea of red, white, and blue, extending from her daily attire to her cherished collection of patriotic-themed boots.

“I have a pair of classic red, white, and blue boots with fringe that are a standout,” she says with a smile. “They are so unique, and people just associate me with them.”

Her love for these colors isn’t confined to her closet. Risher’s home decor also reflects her See RISHER, Page 4

hopes that the town continues to honor the late mayor’s vision for progress.

BY MELISSA MCCOY mtscreporter@gmail.com

PHOTOS BY BRIAN GARNER/THE N&R

For Cindy Risher, the red, white, and blue are more than just the colors of the American flag; they are a way of life. Known for her unwavering patriotism, Risher’s unique style is a testament to her love and respect for the United States.

Risher’s journey into patriotic hues began gradually. “It wasn’t just a one-day thing,” she explains. “It probably started between 15 to 20 years ago. There’s a gentleman named A.D. Jordan, a field rep for Senator Tim Scott, who once commented on my red, white, and blue boots. He said they were my trademark. That’s when I realized how much I loved wearing these colors.”

Melissa McCoy The Manning Times slowly built a business creating elaborate, handmade piñatas.

In 1997, at just 16 years old, Siguan de Balon immigrated to the United States from Guatemala with her mother. When Siguan de Balon first arrived in the country, she and her mother lived in Virginia.

She soon fell in love and married Jorge Balon. Before getting the chance to start their lives as newlyweds, Siguan de Balon began receiving threats of violence from a local man. Afraid for her safety, she and her husband fled the state and settled in Clarendon County.

As the years went on and her family grew, Siguan de Balon found difficulty finding work without a high school diploma. “I found a school in Lake City See PIÑATAS, Page 4

COUNCIL

BY BRIAN GARNER/THE N&R

Thu, July 4, 2024 | The Manning Times Company Inc. | Volume 142, No. 27

The Manning Times

C hester C ount y ’s h ometown n ewspaper s inCe 1869

RED, WHITE AND BLUEBERRY

HEALTHCARE

submitted

SEE ONLINE/PAGE A4

W E D N E S D A Y, O C T O B E R 2 , 2 0 2 4 • $ 1

SEE CEREMONY/PAGE A8

1.00

$

HEALTHCARE

See BAGNAL, Page 5

CRIME

Family of late Summerton mayor filesSeewrongful death DEHC, Page 5

GOVERNMENT BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION F

FIRST PLACE

Travis Jenkins The News & Reporter

This writer conveys the emotions of a highly intensive meeting and makes the reader feel as if they were attending the meeting. The report is backed with several credible sources and is well attributed throughout. Continuing investigation following the meeting included FOIA requests and extensive documentation. Well done.

TLN WEEKEND

GOVERNMENT BEAT REPORTING ETHAN USLAN TO PLAY NOSTALGIC ALL-AMERICAN TUNES AT CAC

DIVISION E

$1

PAGE A10

SPORTS

LANCASTER

SERVING LANCASTER COUNTY 3 LANCASTER • H E DIXIE A T HBASEBALL SPRINGS • KERSHAW • VAN W YCK • INDIAN LAND TEAMS HEADED TO STATE TOURNEYS WEDNESDAY, JUNE 26, 2024 CAC CONCERT FEATURING PAGE A6 COREY LOVELACE AND SOPHIA PAVLENKO WEEKEND EDITION SHOWCASES MUSIC

BY RUSSIAN AND UKRAINIAN COMPOSERS PAGE A8

WEEKEND

SPORTS

INDIAN LAND GIRL WRESTLER HEADING TO JUNIOR NATIONAL DUALS TOURNEY PAGE A4

County earns six national achievement awards THELANCASTERNEWS.COM

BY BRENDA THOMPSON

Launched in 1970, the pro- community’s gover nment.

THELANCASTERNEWS.COM WEEKEND EDITION gram is designed to celebrate Through dynamic sessions Lancaster County has been innovation in county govern- led by county administrators, recognized with six 2024 ment. Each nominated pro- County Council and department directors, participants Achievement Awards from gram is judged S E R on V I N GitsL Aown NCASTER COUNTY the National Association L A Nof C A Smerits T E R • and H E A T not H S P against R I N G S • other K E R S H Again W • invaluable V A N W Y C K insights • I N D I A Ninto LAND the functions and impact of Counties (NACo). The awards applications. county departments. $1 SATURDAY-SUNDAY, JUNE 29-30, 2024 “The Achievement Awards honor innovative, ef fective • The Lancaster County county government programs recognize excellence in county SERVING LANCASTER COUNTY that strengthen ser vices for government and effective pub- Librar y Seed Program is a L ANC A STER • HE ATH SPRINGS • KER SHAW • VAN W YCK • INDIAN L AND lic service,” said NACo Presi- collaboration between the residents.

Each year, NACo’s Achieve- dent Mary Jo McGuire. “This Lancaster County Library and $1 SATURDAY-SUNDAY, JUNE 15-16, 2024

BY ANDREW S. BROWN fatal shooting of the Rock Hill where he was thought to be was transferred to the custody County Water year’sto winners have delivered the Lancaster ABROWN@THELANCASTERNEWS.COM ment Awards recognize outMontest MincPolice Depar t- on Blossom Street on Tuesday, of a Rock Hill police officer the & Soul Conservation District, for our residents andlocated him. He next day. ey, 44, of Great in 18 results ment.

June 25, and Two more Lancaster men standing programming which aims to promote sus- were The Lancast- innovative ran.” have been arrested in connec- categories Falls. aligned with the demonstrated Davis and Pearson Davis was er County SherBarfield said sheriff’s tion to the fatal shootings at a vast, comprehensive gardening practices, taken to the Rock Hill jail, to strengthen our com- tainableoffiservices efforts ar rested June iff’s Office also cers and a K-9 unit, as well as a where they were booked.

Rock Hill block party June 1. educate the community on munities.”

14 by the Lana p p r e h e n d e d S.C. Law Enforcement Division The Southland Park incident counties provide.

Earlier arrests growing food and flowers, and A millage increase typicalfrom 202 to 231. Last year’s caster include County chilafter a K-9 andthese helicopter were used left two people dead, including ThePearson, awards recognize The categories The Rock Hill Police arrestbudget was $40,661,873.

Tyquarious Marques ly results in a tax increase for Sheriff’s Office chase County involving programs: to search for Pearson, who was a man from Lancaster, and two dren enhance nutrition.

Lancaster and youth, criminal jusDavis Pearson ed two other Lancaster Coun“ D e s p i t e t h e m i l l a g e at his Wendodogs and a heli- found at a home on•the same injured. property owners, but state law The Student Mock CounBY MANDY • The Lancaster County safety, but taxes are going down, not budget at its June 11 meeting.

Lancasterincrease, County the out-of-pocket ty men earlier this CATOE month in ver Drive resi-librarcopter. street laterCivthat evening.

Tyquarious Queveon Davis, tice and public allows a certain percentage of CORRESPONDENT Council up. County Administrator Councilors Taylorand and Brenda impact on residents is less, due connection Fostering with the shootings, 24, and Marques Lavon Pear- ies, dence,management, according to Doug Bar“We were that RHPD was ty taken into Meeting: ics aware 101 course offersPearson residents informaLancaster DennisHazel Marstall Lancaster City Council unan- Kenny Hood were absent. city of Lancaster’s nearto the sales tax credit factor,” the 1% local option sales tax to is Kirk, son, 20, both of Lancaster, have tion field with the LSCO. Davis was civic had waran rants for Marques custody without incidentEngagement and whichThe alsoprogram killed Maricus immersive exploration into Civic technology, health, Thompson, county communications director, display the counThe $50,988,768 budget said James Absher, city finance go toward tax relief. ly $51 million budget is 25.4% imously approved first reading been charged with accessory transported to the county line Lavon Pearson,” Barfield said booked into the Lancaster SEE AWARDS /PAGE the went inner of their and more. ty’s award forcity’s its Civics SEE BUDGET/PAGE A2 larger than A2 last year’sA2 budget, of the 2024-25 101 fiscalcourse. year includes a 29-mill increase director.

SEE ARRESTS /PAGE before the fact of murder in the engagement on S.C. 5 and transferred over Friday. “We to aworkings home County Detention Center. He LANCASTER COUNTY COMMUNICATIONS

SECOND PLACE THIRD PLACE 2 more local men arrested in Rock Hill murder Mac Banks The Lancaster News

Barbara Ball The Voice of Blythewood

City budget goes up, but taxes come down

Council gives $51M budget initial approval

YOUTH SERVE KERSHAW Thrill

Blackmon resigns County BIG GOP PRIMARY WINS Council gets Ride things rolling

deducts tax deduction in $149M budget

from council to pursue Senate seat Election will be held Nov. 5; filing opens July 30

BY MAC BANKS

MBANKS@PAXTONMEDIA.COM

LANCASTER, S.C. — Allen Blackmon is pushing all his chips in.

LANCASTER, S.C. — The Lancaster County Blackmon resigned from the Lancaster CounCouncil passed final reading of its $149 million ty Council, effective at midnight 2025 fiscal year budget with potentially more Monday, June 24, after making money going toward firefighters and EMT the announcement at that eveworkers.

Andrew S. Brown The budget passed 5-1 with Councilor Jose ning’s council meeting. His resEvan Eubanks, Carson Sowell, Ryder Smith, Briston Smith, Jacob Drennan and Jake Faulkenberry work on a ramp Luis being the lone dissenting vote during its at Deborah Drakeford’s home Wednesday morning. ignation allows him to concenMonday, June 24, meeting. Councilor Terry trate more on his race for the Graham was absent.

The general fund budget makes up roughly state Senate. $90.5 million of the $149 million budget, which “I hated to resign,” Blackis 3% more than last year. The next fiscal year Mac Banks Brian Garner mon said.

“I thoroughly enjoyedMac Banks Allen Jim Hughes starts July 1, 2024.

Ellen Hughes casts her ballot at the Van Wyck Communicasts his vote during the 2024 GOP priBY ANDREW S. BROWN Mandy Catoe stands next to the Air Force Formula Drift Car that gaveInitially, her a 21.6-second thrill ride Mayhad 15 at Giti being on County Council.

It has Blackmon the third reading of the budget ty Center during the state Republican primary on Tuesmary on Tuesday, June 11, at the Van Wyck CommuABROWN@THELANCASTERNEWS.COM Tire’s Drift Ride Along. day, Junethe 11. current budget nity Center. a 0.40-mill reduction from being one of the most meaningKERSHAW, S.C. — Since 1995, local teenagyear. However, after seeing that Lancaster City ful things I have done. I have had the best couners have been spreading Christ’s message and Landslides formore Blackmon, Carnes and Newton; Stubbs wins 3-way race Council is looking at giving its firefighters helping members of the Kershaw community in cil to work with. I appreciate every one of you. of a pay increase, County Council voted 6-0 need during the last week of June through Youth MACA2 BANKS Penry Gustafson inSEE the state Senate BLACKMON /PAGE A4as Coutchure was SEE COUNTY BUDGETBY /PAGE Serve.

MBANKS@PAXTONMEDIA.COM

BY MAC BANKS

MBANKS@PAXTONMEDIA.COM

65 teens work on 23 home repair projects

Two Amandas take a 21.6-second spin

Youth Serve is a disciple-based Christian camp in Kershaw for kids ages 13-19.

Youth Serve’s goal is to teach teens what it s a freelance news writer in a small town, most of looks like to serve like Christ in their local com-

District 27 race. In the three-way LANCASTER, S.C. — If the local race for state Senate District 17, Republican primaries had been Everett Stubbs emerged victorious. prize fights, someone should have LANCASTER COUNTY thrown in the towel.

his only challenger for the position on County Council.

Despite the large margin he won by,

Forecast: Hot, hot, hot!

on road tax referendum

BY MAC BANKS

MBANKS@PAXTONMEDIA.COM

LANCASTER, S.C. — When it comes to the future of roads in Lancaster County, the devil is in the details.

Lancaster County Council voted 4-2 Monday, June 10, to pass first reading of an ordinance to put questions on the November ballot regarding a 1% sales tax to generate $405 million for road projects around the county.

Councilors Billy Mosteller and Jose Luis voted against the measure for the lack of in-depth details about the projects they were hoping to see.

“Something of this magnitude needs to be slowed down,” Mosteller said. “We need to prioritize the projects. With the school bond on the ballot, I don’t think either will pass. You are asking a lot of the people.”

Public Works Director Jeff Catoe and County Transportation Committee Chair Rudy Car ter made the presentation to County Council.

There are 125 road and transpor tation-related projects in the proposal, with $140 million set for major road widenings, SEE TAX/PAGE A2

HOLIDAY DELAYS JUNE 19 PAPER DELIVERY

GOVERNMENT BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION E

FIRST PLACE

S.T. Cardinal Myrtle Beach Herald

“Not even the approval of the agenda was unanimous at the special called Atlantic Beach town council meeting Thursday, May 9.” What a great lede that sets up the wild ride that these stories take.

It must be a real trip covering this! Well-written with quotes that let the players speak for themselves, and descriptions that paint the scene so even an out-of-towner can follow. Great stuff!

GOVERNMENT BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION D

THIRD PLACE Ralph Mancini Moultrie News

SECOND PLACE Jack O’Toole Charleston City Paper

GOVERNMENT BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION D

FIRST PLACE

Delayna Earley The Island News

Well written and important stories for residents of the area.

GOVERNMENT BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION C

THIRD PLACE Lauren Pierce The Journal, Seneca

SECOND PLACE Gene Zaleski The Times and Democrat

and the General Services Administration play in beginning a presidential transition. The White House official spoke on the condition of anonymity

GOVERNMENT BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION C

BY BRYN EDDY bryn@theitem.com

“But I’ll stay on until we get it cleaned up,” Brown told The Sumter Item. “If not me, then When Shawna Moye moved who?” to Mayesville about four years At an Oct. 8, 2024, town counago from Charleston, she was cil meeting, there were two diflooking forward to living a quiferent agendas posted for the eter life. SCHOOL BASKETBALL HIGH same meeting, thus spurring One with less road congesthe first argument of the night, tion and urban sprawl. And four law enforcement officers most importantly, one with present to keep peace, one susnicer local folks. pended town council member, So she picked Mayesville. A one town attorney with a pubtown with 548 residents, aclic reprimand and about 15 cording to the most recent Cen- Mayesville locals. sus data, a convenience store, And the only people Brown beautiful historic homes and says he sees eye to eye with are council chambers with walls the locals — not the council, covered in oil paintings detailnot the clerk, not the town ating Black history — veterans, torney. The one town official he trumpeters, athletes, politicians did have the same goals as is and more. suspended.

When she attended a town of Earlier reporting notes that Mayesville council meeting in Gov. Henry McMaster suspendthose same chambers when ed councilman Reggie Wilson former longtime mayor after he was indicted in 2022 on Jereleen Miller was still in the charges of threatening the forseat, Moye was disappointed to mer mayor’s life outside town sense hostility among her hall by making gun noises with town’s leaders. his mouth. Wilson acknowlIt’s now been a year since the edged yelling obscenities that former longtime mayor was day but said he never threatousted from her seat by newened anyone's life. comer Chris Brown.

Sumter County court docuBrown won the November ments go back to mid-April 2023 election by 27 votes, and 2024 with filings that list Brown his first year in the seat has “in his official capacity as Mayor of the Town of Mayesbeen challenging but not in the ville” as the plaintiff and Cynways he expected. thia Massingill, Roteshia BenEarlier reporting from The jamin, Jasaad Ricks and TauSumter Item and The Post and rice Collins “in their official caCourier details Brown lacking pacities as Town Councilmemthe keys to the town, both literbers [and clerk]” as the defenally and figuratively. With limdants. These documents, along ited access to town records and a molding town hall adjacent to with hours of public meeting footage, Wilson’s suspension the Mary McLeod Bethune and the word of Mayesville resLearning Center, the only locaidents, detail the extent of tion safe to have public meetings, Brown discovered that the council’s quarrels.

For months, Mayesville loformer mayor and her husband cals have watched their mayor still held a lot of power. A comand council turn against one munity development corporaanother, not only in court docution was created by the former ments, but also in person. Your mayor and her husband as a average town of Mayesville nonprofit to help raise money council meeting is at the very for affordable housing and ecoleast over an hour long, dense nomic development. But that is largely what has made Brown’s with insults and yelling and nearly void of actions taken on term so challenging. Ed Miller, agenda items. as leader of the nonprofit, still “When I leave [council meetcontrolled the keys and deed to ings], I feel like we didn’t get the learning center, which has anything accomplished. All we been used for council meetings did was argue and fight,” Moye and town offices.

So, not but a few months into said.

“I think the mayor takes his his term did Brown already job seriously,” local attorney look at his wits’ end, yet, it’s Danny Crowe, who represented now been a full year, and his Brown, told The Sumter Item. patience continues to dwindle.

INSIDE WEEKEND: USC Sumter holds groundbreaking for softball field A2

Clarendon Hall girls punch tickets to state with OT win over Dorchester Academy B1

$2.00

FEB. 24 - 26, 2024

Bryn Eddy The Sumter Item

School district’s grading system before board again Monday Executive director of academics was absent during last meeting

sionalism, and tenacity throughout the campaign, and both leaders agreed on the importance of unifying the country,” according to Trump spokes-

Trump supporter Elon Musk, as investors looked favorably on a smooth election and Trump returning to the White House.

Mayesville residents may be its quarrelsome town council’s only hope, experts say

SERVING SOUTH CAROLINA SINCE OCTOBER 15, 1894

FIRST PLACE

trations are prepared to govern when they enter office on Jan. 20.

Lutnick and McMahon released a statement late Wednesday saying

Lifelong county residents thought they lived on public road, but now they’re being told it might be private

BY BRUCE MILLS bruce@theitem.com After an extensive discussion at the board’s last meeting, the district’s grading system will take center stage again at Sumter School District’s Board of Trustees’ meeting on Monday night.

Board members spoke for nearly 50 minutes on related topics at the trustees’ Feb. 12 meeting, but Superintendent William Wright Jr. had to fill in for questions because Executive Director of Academics Jade McLeod was absent because of a family illness. The grading system made the agenda again in hopes that McLeod will be present.

Expect the trustees to discuss again the comparisons of state test score data and classroom grades given to students in core subjects and a policy from the district’s official grading manual where teachers are required to adjust up finalized grades each quarter that are below 50% to 50%.

Also, monthly financial reports from

SEE GRADING, PAGE A8

PHOTOS BY ADAM FLASH / THE SUMTER ITEM

Wayne Geddings, a Kangaroo Lane resident, stands on his street that hasn’t been serviced in a year. Residents have been asking the county to change the street sign color back to its original green to indicate it’s a public road so it will be maintained.

They fear emergency service vehicles won’t be able to drive on it quickly enough if needed.

The boy loved watching the large what looks more like craters on Kangaroo Lane machinery even out the dirt.

Mars than potholes on a residential But now he’s 6 and hasn’t seen a road. stopped receiving scraper since last year. Kangaroo And while potholes are nothing Lane is in rough shape with pot of the ordinary to South Caromaintenance last year holes and divots, and while he might out linians, particularly ones who live

BY BRYN EDDY bryn@theitem.com Lesa Geddings and her 5-year-old grandson used to wave at the scraper when it would come to service their street in rural Sumter County.

like to joke that Nanny’s car gets stuck in mud, Nanny, or Lesa, doesn’t think it’s so funny.

Even in good weather, Kangaroo Lane in the Pinewood area is a trek to travel. The red dirt road that starts in Sumter County and ends in Clarendon County is plagued with

on dirt roads, the Geddingses say the ones on Kangaroo Lane are not only inconvenient, but also dangerous and even life-threatening.

They’re worried about if they need an ambulance and it won’t be able to

told The Sumter Item that after “[The rest of council] need to out these ordinances. a year with Brown as mayor, take their role as sworn offiThe South Carolina Election there’s still no harmony, adding cials of the town seriously and Commission shows that along that everyone should be workfollow the law.” with Brown, council members ing together. When asked what Earlier reporting details Massingill and Ricks started she thinks the mayor or council Brown’s hope early in the lawnew terms after being elected should be doing that they’re not suit that taking it to court during the November 2023 elecdoing already, she said she would create a clear dynamic tion. Benjamin was elected couldn’t give input on that. in council chambers that will during the 2021 election. SusSo, in short, Brown ran for enable town officials to operate pended councilman Reggie Wilmayor because he saw a place more efficiently for the sake of son was elected in 2021. As for HIGH — one with a town hall covered town clerk and treasurer ColMayesville residents. in mold, multiple vacant Main Months later, there’s little to lins, her position is not deterStreet buildings and little to no no progress. mined by the people directly, active businesses — in need, he but instead council fills her poIn fact, without Brown’s apsaid, but quickly learned that proval, council added another sition. Despite Brown’s efforts other town leaders didn’t welname to the mix, Eleazer Carto remove Collins as treasurer, come his leadership, so he took ter. he’s found he needs the supit to court, and even that didn’t Carter of The Carter Law port of council to do so. do much.

Firm, according to the South “The [S.C. Municipal AssociSo, what now?

Carolina Judicial Branch, curation] provides best practices, Who can hold Mayesville rently has a “Good Standing” but at the end of the day, it’s up FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2024 | Serving Southaccountable Carolina since October 15, 1894five seats,” Barrineau $1.00 leaders and push status with the South Carolina to those forward for positive change for Bar, but documents from the said. “The court is very slow, its residents?

Commission on Lawyer Conand it is not something that can Its residents, according to duct detail a 2012 public repriget the situation resolved, even Field Services Manager Charlie if there's a judgment. It kind of mand.

This came after his client lost Barrineau of the Municipal As- falls back on the people that sociation of South Carolina. a civil case because Carter live there when it comes elec“You hear the term ‘maydidn't show up for meetings or tion time, and public comment or-council form of governcourt dates, according to earliand things like that.” ment,’ and many refer to that er reporting.

He added that it’s communias the ‘strong mayor form,’ and ty events that can help foster “Based on the facts of this so they think the mayor can do case as well as Carter’s extenunity among leaders. As of whatever they want to, but the sive disciplinary history, we now, there are not many fun reality of it is that’s not the hold the misconduct warrants events like that in Mayesville. case,” he told The Sumter Item. a public reprimand,” the comThe most recent was Mayes“I think that things will work mission documents state just ville Presbyterian's Rejoicings Listeners to California Gov.that Gavin Newsom and U.S. Rep. Dean Phillips of Minne series returned for a secthemselves out, but sometimes after detailing his disciplinary ris College on Thursday. ond season with a concert on that takes an election.” history dating back to 2002, on Oct. 13, 2024.

According to Barrineau, which there were no docuThere are no upcoming there are two ways Mayesville ments immediately available.

Mayesville festivals or commucan get on its feet: either Brown told The Sumter Item nity events at this time. through the mayor and council earlier this year that he thinks Mayesville town meetings working together or through people can change and hoped are on the second Tuesday of the people choosing new leadCarter's disciplinary history every month in the Mary Mcers and regularly engaging in wouldn't play a role in how he Leod Bethune Learning Center the community. represents Mayesville officials; on North Main Street.

There is no soon-coming however, Brown was not in Two Mayesville Town Counfavor of Carter's hiring and col- election, though. cil seat terms are up a year The S.C. Municipal Associalaborated with locals to interfrom now. tion handbook states that a view other candidates, ulti“I do know that there is a demayor or council member's mately telling council and the sire to move in a positive directerm is either two or four public that he wanted to hire years. Unless otherwise provid- tion, but I’m not sure if we’re John Dubose of Smith, Robined by ordinance, terms are four getting there,” Moye said after son, Holler, Dubose & Morgan BY BRYN EDDY four years living in Mayesville, years and are staggered so half LLC. bryn@theitem.com hoping the friendliness she the council is elected every two But council ignored Brown’s moved there for would soon years, but two-year terms are invitation to interview other Sumter thrift shop owner James Jackson start to show in town leaders. not staggered, according to the candidates with him and still spent a day and a half in jail 19 years ago for “I hope that doesn’t discourage handbook. hired Carter, thus showing the selling copyright CDs. the rest of the town of MayesMayesville’s code of ordinew mayor “And that’sonce all itagain took that for me to learn,” he ville into wanting to give up nances is another point of concouncil does not welcome his said. and not supporting the mayor tention, according to Brown. leadership.

Despite the brevity of his jail time, Jackand not coming to meetings. …

There could not“haunt” be reached sonCarter used the word to describe theseems to not be a conSometimes, we get fed up with sensus as to what ordinances for comment afternearly multiple atway in which that two-decade-old that kind of animosity and that referencing mayoral power, tempts. Neither conviction followscould him.council kind of hostility. I just don’t members Benjamin, Ricks orone ofcouncil “I thought I was going to be them power and clerk power want to see that turn people clerk/treasurer Collins.

Black men that make it all the way are saying. In short, no one is into being apathetic.” agreement on how to carry Councilwoman Massingill through,” he said. “Then I turned 40inand got a whole convicted felony.”

People with criminal convictions struggle to find work, rent apartments, and some lose the right to vote.

These are only a few of the obstacles people face post-jail or prison time. There are also social and familial consequences that follow them for a lifetime.

And throughout many municipalities, including in the City of Sumter and in Sumter County, a criminal conviction could keep someone from having a business license.

Earlier reporting from The Sumter Item details the City of Sumter and Sumter County evaluating their business license ordinances in the latter half of 2023, and the city passed an amendment to it and the county

No. outl Dar regi

Some say business license ordinance is unfair

City’s change could hinder those with criminal convictions from owning business; no Sumterite has been denied

State, national Democr encourage Morris Colle and Sumterites to vote

Nominations open for Best U.S. economy Crestwood High’s Harding, Randall talk pushing governor and of Clarendon Too often, government beat reporting focuses on the institutions rather than the people.boundaries This reporter chose to focus each story’s ledegrew on aatperson, whichCalifornia helped me as a a strong Democratic presidential and giving chances through art 2024 contest candidate speak to crowd 3.3% pace in SEE SIGNS, PAGE A8

SEE LICENSES, PAGE A11

California Gov. Gavin Newsom walks around the auditorium of Morris College s and Rep. Dean Phillips of Minnesota, who is on the Democratic primary ballot courage people to vote in the primary on Saturday, Feb. 3.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH — BOOSTING BLACK VOICES

reader care about the issue more. Finding those real people to tell their stories makes the “Hey, that’s my neighbor.”

C coverage more relevant because people canlastsay, quarter an we get candid for a

STAFF REPORT

Best of Clarendon is back, and that's cause for celebration.

Nominations for The Sumter Item's annual readers' choice contest covering Clarendon County are being accepted in more than 200 categories

second? At one point, I didn’t want to pursue

writing as a career. Hear me out.

Writing always

cidentally — and on occasion, intentionally — break those rules. And

back and forth with another individual that is free of rules, free of restrictions and free of judgment.

So, yes, if I didn’t have a job that awarded me the freedom to be creative and conversational talkingand writing-wise, I wouldn’t have authored a series allowing creatives to express their passions, I wouldn’t

at event on Thursday

BY BRYN EDDY bryn@theitem.com

BY PAUL WISEMAN AP Economics Writer

Morris College students and Sumter locals heard from multiple state and national Democratic fig-

GOVERNMENT BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION B

THIRD PLACE Mary Dimitrov The Island Packet

SECOND PLACE Emalyn Muzzy The Sun News

GOVERNMENT BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION B

FIRST PLACE

Isabella Douglas The Island Packet

The writer clearly explains the secrecy around the audit report and its legal implications, making a complex issue easy to follow.

Overall, it effectively informs readers while maintaining a balanced tone.

GOVERNMENT BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION A

THIRD PLACE Morgan Hughes The State

SECOND PLACE Nick Reynolds The Post and Courier

GOVERNMENT BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION A

FIRST PLACE

Ali Rockett The Post and Courier

Government accountability reporting is key to the role of journalism. But, making that reporting understandable to the reader – not just what is happening but why it matters is arguably more important. This is a good example of beat reporting that both shines a light and explains the why it matters.

BUSINESS REPORTING

DIVISION G

THIRD PLACE Ross Norton GSA Business Report

SECOND PLACE Hanna Raskin

BUSINESS REPORTING

DIVISION G

FIRST PLACE

Hollie Moore Charleston Regional Business Journal

This profile of a family that created a great service and found a way to help others was not only well-written but shows how challenges can be overcome. Well done.

BUSINESS BEAT REPORTING

DIVISIONS E & F COMBINED

THIRD PLACE Brian Garner The News & Reporter C hester C ount y ’s h ometown n ewspaper s inCe 1869 ONLINECHESTER.COM

DIVA ON A DIME

BEACH VIBES IN EVERY BITE | PAGE B2

A2 The News & RepoRTeR Wednesday, June 19, 2024 W E D N E S D A Y, J U N E 2 6 , 2 0 2 4 • $ 1

ISSUE 38 • 2 SEC TIONS, 16 PAGES

Best wash on four paws

Carlton Wallace Chester County Sheriff ’s Dixon wanted for murder Office investigates Flint committed on June 17 Red Bug Barn installs Street shooting

FROM RELEASE This incident occurred Chester County — The on June 17th, 2024 at RamChester County Sher- sey Grove Apar tments to MUSCon Flint Street in i f f ’was s O ftransported fice has o b tChester. ained ar rest Chester County. warrants for T h e p u b l i c BY i s BRIAN GARNER Despite life-saving mea-asked BGARNER@ONLINECHESTER.COM Carlton Wallace to contact died as athe Chester D i xsures, o n , a gthe e 4victim 4, It’s Counlike a car wash, but these “vehifor result the charges of injuries sus-ty Sherif f’s Of fice of his

BY N&R STAFF cles” have four paws instead of four Mur der, Posses803-385-5433 during the incident.aift you On the heels of an arrestsiontained wheels. of a Weapon have any to Bug Barn in Richburg He has been identified byknowledge a Violent in a May 17 shooting inci-During TheasRed Carlton Dixon the whereabouts of Crime, and Pos-County the Chester Coro-this subject. dentBY at Jones Adair recently unveiled their newest serPHOTOS BRIAN GARNER/THE N&R Park,session of Firearm Office SC Secretary of Commerce Harry Lightsey, left, talks with Princeton NuEnergy CEO and Founder Dr. Sher-or ner’s the Chester County n i sa cself-serve ondog wash. The N&R Ammunition by as Elijahwan D i x ovice: Chao Yan at the groundbreaking for the new $11 million facility in Chester County. sidered to bewas Armed convicted of cerDevonta Terrill Boulware, iff’s Office is investigatingperson Wednesday, Novemberfor 6, 2024 News & RepoRTeR B1 on and hand recently theTheribbon Dangerous. tain crimes.

automated dog wash

Seeking help from the community

EMA Deputy Director Kunzie to speak at 2024 Esri user’s conference

Twelve principles to change a life

County Animal Control gets support from local entities Career Day held at Great Falls Elementary Carpenter’s protest denied

Since artificial intelligence uses information from algorithms, certain data can inadvertently perpetuate biases present in existing data. AI can pull from such information, not realizing it is opinionated or biased.

EMMA SLAVEN emma@thedanielislandnews.com

T

he rise of artificial intelligence (AI) heralds a fresh chapter in the Industrial Revolution, an era where machines possess the ability to think, learn, self-replicate, and excel in tasks once reserved for humans.

Local businesses are embracing AI, including food and beverage businesses like Indigo Reef Brewing and medical offices like River Landing Dentistry.

First introduced in 1956, artificial intelligence evolved from a theoretical notion to a practical tool across various industries.

From marketing to health care, research from a 2022 McKinsey Global Survey shows that nearly 50% to 60% of companies have deployed some form of AI tools or resources.

Some of the top emerging trends of AI include generative AI and natural language processing (NLP tools) such as ChatGPT, machine learning, and deep learning. When used strategically, these tools have the potential to transform the way businesses operate.

Contrary to popular belief, AI isn’t all about automation.

While many AI applications involve automating processes originally completed by humans, that only scratches the surface of what these tools can do.

AI is used by businesses more often than you might realize.

Have you ever opened a website and been greeted by a chatbot?

Chatbots are a common instance of customers directly interacting with artificial intelligence. They allow companies to streamline customer service operations, free up employees’ time for work that requires more personalized attention, and save money.

Using a combination of NLP tools and machine learning, chatbot technology can also help route customers to a real-life representative best equipped to answer their questions.

Besides aiding with customer service, AI can be used to identify fraud, optimize supply chain operations, provide product recommendations, and segment audiences through targeted campaigns.

Marketing businesses, along with any company that uses social media, can track customer satisfaction through artificial intel-

TI

NG

February 8 - 14, 2024 ■ The Daniel Island News

TH E AI RE

ligence and use it to create social media posts that mimic the brand’s voice.

All it takes is a simple input in Chat GPT: type in what you want and how you want it.

For example, type, “Write a description for Indigo Reef Brewing Company’s newest beer,” and watch the advertisement write itself. This is what Christopher Ranere, owner and head brewer of Indigo Reef Brewing, does when coming up with social media captions.

“It definitely helps speed up the process of getting the filler information in the description, probably taking a 45-minute task and making it 15 minutes or less,” Ranere said. “I go back in and correct information to make sure the voice is still on brand.”

Food and beverage companies aren’t the only ones taking advantage of AI for social media. River Landing Dentistry has found that applications like ChatGPT, AdCreativeAI, and SEMRush help with copywriting and editing videos with closed captioning.

Lucie Wieland, marketing director of the practice, shared the benefits the office realizes from using AI. “It has helped us work more efficiently and effectively by eliminating time we previously spent trying to brainstorm or think of ideas. It’s nice to use on those days where things don’t flow as easily as they usually do,” Wieland said.

Rather than serving as a replacement for human intelligence and creativity, local businesses can use artificial intelligence as a supporting tool. More and more businesses are adopting AI to save time and decrease costs without taking the human out of it.

To better understand the reason behind the wave, Forbes Advisor surveyed 600 business owners using or planning to incorporate AI in business. These results reveal AI’s impact: Almost all (97%) business owners believe ChatGPT will help their business.

One in three businesses plan to use ChatGPT to write website

thedanielislandnews.com

V

FEATURE | 15

According to the survey, six in 10 employers would choose a less-experienced candidate who has AI skills. Even if AI isn’t “taking over” jobs, it may be keeping some out of an interview.

ON

Entrepreneurs build a place ‘where friends linger’ Five Fast Facts about Princeton NuEnergy

The Daniel Island News ■ February 8 - 14, 2024

UTI

Great Falls Reporter County approves new budget, with no tax increase

14 | FEATURE thedanielislandnews.com

OL

age 29, of Chester. another shooting incident. cutting and demonstration of this latChester County SherAccording to the CCSO est technological marvel. posts on social media, ‘On if f ’s Investigators are “The automated dog wash Monday, June 17th, 2024 actively investigating this works like an automated car wash,” at approximately 7:15 p.m., incident in conjunction explained Red Bug Barn owner Gail Chester County Sheriff’s with the South Carolina Nicholls.

PHOTOS BY BRIAN GARNER/THE N&R

BY TRAVIS JENKINS Enforcement Division Deputies were dispatched Law “There were $46 million Princeton NuEnergy “You have different services you Surrounded by family friends and loyal customers, Red Bug Barn proTJENKINS@ONLINECHESTER.COM in requests,” he said. “But to a shooting incident at (SLED). get by will invest $11M, it down to pressing the buttons on prietor Gail Nicholls cuts the ribbon in front of her dog wash unit.

Chester County Coun- we had to getcan We ask that anyone with Ramsey Grove Apartments cil approved a $59 mil- $34 million.” the console. There’s not a wash and A vendor create 41 jobs pertaining on Flint Street in Chester T h ato t d o e wax, s n ’ t but m e a there n lioninformation budget for the new There’s nothing like this anywhere is a conditioner,” she will accommodate dogs of pretty VENDORS boutique, new budget doesn’t fiscal last week, one theconthisyear incident to please County.Market

BY BRIAN GARNER much any size, Nicholls said. around here,” she said. “It cost a pretjoked. upgraded that did not include a tax include some BGARNER@ONLINECHESTER.COM This is a list of the vendors on Dearborn tact the Chester County Upon arrival, • Princeton NuEner- clean technology company. Sheriff’s There is a free disinfectant cycle ty penny to get it here, but I think it’s benefits for employees The dog wash will operate on cash increase. who are selling their wares Lithium-ion batter y recygy (PNE) selects Chester features • Deputies The 18 company will beone Sheriff’s Office Investigalocated male inside the Market on or ser vices for pub- and they are installing a that begins so you can disinfect the going to be worth it in the end,” she Chester County Treacling company Princeton vendors andthecoins, Dearborn: County for its first South located at 564age Ecology Lane had The budget includes Tommy Darby saidatlic.

NuEnergy (PNE) symbolitions Department (803) victim, 29, who sus-surer card reader so it will eventually be dog wash before putting your animal said.

Heads Upthat Beauty$34 million would a four% cost Carolina operation. in BRIAN Chester, S.C.BGARNER · of living cally broke ground on their BY GARNER tained gunshot wounds.

Hecome Rich Fashion &385-5433.

Accessories • The company’s $11 • @ONLINECHESTER.COM Individuals interested Nicholls suggested that dog parfrom the County’s able to accept credit and debit cards in. The front gate opens so you can flagship facility in the former SEE BUDGET/PAGE A2 million investment will cre- in joining the PNE team A&B Designs general fund.

Cindee and James Perkins Shayo Nano building in Chesas well, Nicholls said. In the mean- load your dog inside. A video screen ents make sure they bring a towel KC’s Creative Studio literally on ate 41 new jobs. shouldbuilt visitthe theMarket company’s ter County last week.

Forever Yours Gift Co with them when they visit the dog provided prompts to show you how time, customers can purchase their Dearborn from the ground • PNE is an innovative careers page.

This facility is the nation’s Varney Mercantile up. Before the grand opening first commercial-scale lithwash time (it’s $10 for 10 min- to operate the wash. The wash fea- was.

Papa’s Workshop Nov. 2, Cindee sat down City gets good financialdog news ium-ion batter y direct recy- ton University by a group of on thatThe recycling theabout batteries T&D MetalWorks tures a wash and rinse cycle (with Chester County Chamber of Comutes) on the credit card reader inside with N&R tooftalk cling facility. When complete, engineers that got together to thecould be“vendor called boutique “urban min- Stefanie’s Originals special preheated water), a conditioner and merce President Brooke Clinton and the Barn.

BY TRAVIS JENKINS closely with City officials annual production is estimat- form Princeton NuEnergy.

Wessden Designs (don’t-call-it-a-consignmenting”.

TJENKINS@ONLINECHESTER.COM and staf f on The budgets, ed at more than 10,000 tpa dog wash is outside on the a flea and tick treatment mode. There son Tucker demonstrated how the opening intoGreat The process uses plasma shop) Speaking SC Falls.

Secretar y EJ’s Gifts City of Chester had audits and general financ(tonnes per anum) of bat- to separate used batteries of “James comes from a family Treats Commerce Harry Lightsey Jhy’ara SweetThe es. The Cityfront will porch soon of the Red Bug Barn so is also a low and high speed drying dog wash worked with Chamber masa par ting gift for Marc woodworkers; his dad was ter y-grade cathode material, and recover more than 95% of of before Lunara Design Gems the ceremony, Dr. Yan the sercot Gabriel. patrons can use it after hours, even cycle. builder, and all of his equivalent to producing more the materials used in all lithi- a master NaNa but he had one for begin employing said, “ThinkJames’ aboutuncles the U.S.: The BohoWood, vices of a newiffirm dad’s brothers, than 100,000 batteries for EVs um-ion batteries. the Handmade

By City Tina as well.

Nicholls ordered the dog wash unit Janet Ligon with Jubliee Farms the(Green shop is not open, or if a patron We don’t have cobalt worked for him in aMain, andmine; Beaming Express each year.

For the past several F i n n e y C o l l e y, L L P ) , PNE founder and CEO Dr. they wemoved don’t to have a nickel mine. from the Netherlands after she saw brought her dog Blu by for a wash. wants South Carolina meaning Wood’s time to withbring a skittish dog inBYfor Embroidery The direct recycling proBRIAN GARNER/THE N&R Despite its modest size, is a testament to the hard years, in the absence of and his dad started to the City is drawing towhen acuts the Market on Dearborn owner Cindee Perkins ribbonare on the vendor boutique, that features Lincoln Road Farm cess developed by PNE start- Chao Yan said before the in 1971,Chester a wash there no people or one demonstrated at the annual Pet She said the dog liked it so much, she a full-time finance direcof ourHeofwas SEE BATTERY /PAGE A2is making work and dedication houses downCounty here, and presented craftsclose. and wares 18 vendors inside. ed from research at Prince- groundbreaking ceremony build tor, Wood (from the thearts, firm around. The dog wash Expo in Florida. brought her other dog the next day.

James significant learned to do ever ywaves entire team,” said with a card ofother thanksanimals and of Sheheen, Hancock thing he does from his dad,” Cindee explained the shop out as and a produce-centric farm- you more stress than joy, you antiquing at places like venKunzie.

“It’s anmore she /PAGE Godwin LLC) haser’s worked Cindeeon said.the global stage.

SEEthe FINANCIAL A2 it in life. To me, dor malls,” she said. She realwas a “vendor boutique,” with market, but don’t need James built and installedthe an eye towards making ithonor a got into it, the more Cindee that as just way too much ized that opening that sort of Laura Kunzie, to represent most of the shelves that the little more upscale than a con- realized there would be a lot stress…I want as little joy as market would give her some Deputy Director Chester County 18 vendors will use to display of signment shop. of state regulations she would possible and as little stress joy. their wares inside ofCounty’s the MarShe said the Market, as you to meet sell produce. as possible,” she said. “James Chester andhave share ourtoexpeket.

SEE PLACE/PAGE B8 can tell by the name, started “I have a motto: if it brings and I love to go shopping and Emergency riences and sucthe drug court inManChesSixth Circuit’s Chester of court as Tina Bradbury and ates from he said.has There are Buckaloo graduated from ter County, agement, been cesses with a global County and state parties uphold County Drug Court Cole the drug court system and had currently seven participants in selected as a speakaudience.” program, including the two has first graduates their charges dismissed and the Cook’s qualifications to hold office GREAT BEAT er FALLS for thePOLICE 2024 Esri graduates.

“Laura’s innovaexpunged from their records.

Laura Kunzie A drug court was definitely Sixth Circuit Solicitor Randy From the Great Falls Police Department: Chester County User’s Conference.

BY BRIAN GARNER use of ArcGIS

BY N&Rtive STAFF took a 29-vote win in the BY20-vote BRIAN GARNER Newman explained that it has needs in the three counties of the BGARNER@ONLINECHESTER.COM toured Animal Control them here so they can be if something happens and EMA Deputy Sue Carpenter had two Eureka This annual conferto create a real-Mill precinct, Circuit, Newman said. 27, BGARNER@ONLINECHESTER. It was a graduation. It was taken the graduates 18 months Sixth • Yakeeshiauna Alexander, Director protests of her narrow elec- wins in Wilksburg and Chesrecently to see how things altered, and released,” she Animal Control needs to

Lithium-ion battery recycling company chooses Chester

Emma Slaven The Daniel Island News GA

GOLFING FOR A CAUSE | PAGE A6

NAVI

SPORTS

SECOND PLACE

ask questions like “Do I need to wear a mask?” or “Where do I park?” and even confirms, cancels, and reschedules appointments without navigating touch-tone commands. The hospital also uses a chatbot on its website to provide patients with information.

Broj said the integration of AI is not only allowed by employees, but encouraged. She said, “The integration of AI technology has been a game-changer for our workflow and time management.” she said.

She advises other businesses to start small and let AI help you ADVANTAGES OF USING AI grow, saying, “AI might be the future, but it’s also very much the IN THE WORKPLACE present, and it’s right here in our backyard, helping our teams run smoother and smarter.”

According to Wharton University, Enhanced Data Analytics: AI and machine learning can businesses can benefit from using AI process and analyze vast amounts of data at speeds and scale by boosting efficiency through process automation, beyond human capabilities. As a result, AI can identify patterns improving the speed or consistency of service, using customer insights to inform decision-making, and uncover- or trends, which can help predict future business outcomes or ing opportunities for new products and services. Other benefits market toward specific audiences.

Improved Decision-making: AI can identify new business include: Increased Efficiency and Productivity: Virtually any job could opportunities, flag operational roadblocks, make decisions based on customer data, and prepare for potential challenges. This incorporate AI to help save time. Almost every job has at least a few repetitive, manual tasks such as inputting data or generating can empower businesses to make more informed decisions and develop effective strategies based on machine-generated reports reports that take away from more impactful work. The automation of AI can help with routine tasks like data entry, scheduling, and analysis. AI’s ability to process and interpret data at a scale humans can’t reach can benefit businesses of all sectors. and basic customer queries, which frees up valuable time for Mitigation of Human Error: Humans can make mistakes when employees and boosts overall productivity. it comes to numbers, grammar, or vast amounts of data. AI apIn the realm of health care and customer service, the Mediplies predetermined rules and algorithms, improving accuracy cal University of South Carolina (MUSC) is embracing AI to enhance patient experience and streamline operations. According and reliability. to Crystal Broj, MUSC’s enterprise chief digital transformation DISADVANTAGES OF USING AI IN THE WORKPLACE officer, the hospital uses ChatGPT to handle tasks like drafting content, while 44% plan to use ChatGPT to write content in Ethical Considerations: Using AI in the workplace can raise documents and reports, recording meeting notes, and simplifying other languages. ethical questions regarding data privacy, bias, and transparency. the check-in process for patients.

Nearly half (46%) of business owners use AI to craft internal Since artificial intelligence uses information from algorithms, Through artificial intelligence, patients can complete papercommunications. certain data can inadvertently perpetuate biases present in work at home, improving time management for both the patient Nearly two-thirds (64%) of business owners believe AI will existing data. AI can pull from such information, not realizing and doctor, Broj said. The simplified check-in process allows improve customer relationships. patients to receive automated reminders, organize appointments, it is opinionated or biased. It’s important for businesses to read “Artificial intelligence is kind of the second coming of softthrough AI data to check for transparency and prevent misuse. and submit documents from home. ware,” Amir Husain, founder and CEO of machine-learning MUSC is working to implement a voice bot system for its company SparkCognition, told Business News Daily. “It’s a form call centers. Using NLP, the technology will allow consumers to of software that makes decisions on its own, that’s able to act Continued on pg. 16

14 | BUSINESS thedanielislandnews.com

even in situations not foreseen by the programmers. Artificial intelligence has a wider latitude of decision-making ability as opposed to traditional software.”

As technology watches artificial intelligence move forward, there are pros and cons to look out for.

The Daniel Island News ■ December 14 - 20, 2023

The ‘Queen Bee’ of Home Telecom, Betty Brown, will retire at the end of the year EMMA SLAVEN emma@thedanielislandnews.com

The early days were not without their challenges. Brown vividly recalls working in a

Betty Brown, a familiar face at Home Telecom’s island office, is retiring after an impressive 24 years of service to the community.

Brown’s journey with Home Telecom began over a decade and a half ago when the company was still in its infancy as Daniel Island Media. Back in 1999, Brown, a Huger resident and a Lowcountry native, was working at the Hampton Inn on the island when a frequent guest recognized her customer service skills and offered her a position in his new venture.

“I didn’t know who he was, or what he did, but he was a very nice man. One day, he came up to the desk and he said, ‘call me!’”

It was Dr. George Brumley, a key figure in the development of Daniel Island and in the emerging telecommunications scene at the time, who admired her work ethic and hired her.

tomer care helped the company thrive, even in those humble beginnings.

Tragedy struck in 2004 when Dr. Brumley and 11 family members died in a plane crash over Mt. Kenya. The company transitioned to new ownership, becoming Home Telecom, and Brown witnessed its growth and evolution firsthand.

From serving a few hundred clients to now catering to thousands, Home Telecom has grown into a integral part of the community’s telecommunications landscape. The company offers phone, high speed internet, cable television, wireless and security services by using cutting-edge fiber optic technology.

In a position dedicated to people, Brown takes the “special” in her role as customer relationship specialist supervisor seriously.

Her daily schedule includes responding to customer inquiries, engaging users with a friendly smile, and showcasing the availabil-

Local businesses small construction trailer with folding chairs artificial Customers know her asintegrate the cornerstone of and a folding table, navigating through mud Home Telecom; colleaguesintelligence call her “Queen into to reach the office. However, her resilience Bee.” their work environmentand commitment to providing top-notch cus-

PROVIDED

After 24 years of service to Daniel Island’s Home Telecom community, Betty Brown is set to retire on Dec. 29. Known as “Queen Bee” around the office, she says she will miss her customers the most, who she calls “family.” ity of services.

Brown’s calming demeanor and ability to troubleshoot problems have earned her

2023 Goldbug Christmas Ornament $45

gratitude over the years. Some regulars bring the internet specialist gifts, such as flowers, food and candy.

“My greatest accomplishment is serving the needs of all my customers, who I call family,” she beamed.

As she approaches retirement, Brown says she is grateful for the rewarding experiences and relationships she’s built over the years.

Whether offering a listening ear to those going through tough times or saying a prayer for a customer in need, Brown’s warmth and compassion have left an indelible mark on the Home Telecom community.

“I will miss my customers the most! I’m heartbroken about leaving, but the time has come for me to enjoy life with my new husband of one year and our children, grandchildren and family.”

While Brown approaches her final day of work on Dec. 29, there’s no doubt that customers will feel the absence of the “Queen Bee” who made every interaction a warm and memorable experience. To her colleagues stepping into the future, Brown imparts a simple yet profound piece of advice: “Be kind to everyone, it doesn’t hurt.”

Allendale County News Business

BUSINESS BEAT REPORTING

Wednesday, March 6, 2024

The People.Sentinel

3A

Brewing up coffee & community Pastry is inspired by traditional European pastry shops, with fresh pastries made every morning alongside espresso-based beverMain Street shop ages and now smoothies. has become a However, it operates with local hotspot for a southern flair, as Dawn caffeine connoisseurs and is a Charleston native who those with a passion for graduated with her culinary degree from Johnson pastries.

Accelerator Coffee & & Wales University when a Pastry was opened in June campus was housed in S.C. Much of Dawn’s inspira2023 by Bob and Dawn Snead. The Sneads are tion drawn to fill the pastry active in the Barnwell com- case each day comes from munity; with Bob being “cherished family traditions the president of the South- and memories of baking ern Palmetto Regional with my grandfather,” said June 26, 2024 The People.SentinelChamber of Commerce Dawn. ThisWednesday, results in comand mastermind at the Pal- forting pastries with a rustic metto Innovation Center, aesthetic. and Dawn revitalizing the She often finds herself inBarnwell Farmer’s Market corporating locally grown and creating interactive and seasonal ingredients to programming at the Veg- even further connect with gie Cupboard Community the community and reinAdrian Searson (left) is the head barista at Accelerator Coffee, which is owned by Dawn and Bob Snead (center and right) educating the community colonies Garden and Greenhouse. venting some of her are cus- constantPhoto By: Jonathan Vickery / Publisher facingrecipes. the plight of a on the pasimportance of lyfamily Their combined tomer’s own manicured lawn. honeybees. sion to help grow the local “The community’s supRonnie encourages up Pollinators can be economy and offer new port for the shop has been “One of my favorite The shop was recognized “I have worked in edu- to her employment at the thanked for the majority of and coming beekeepers to opportunities to residents, nothing short of extraor- things about owning a by the City of Barnwell for cation for many years, so I coffee shop – only cementour food and sustaining a learn their environment, mixed with expertise from dinary. the moment space for different pol-like this is getting to bringing something new wanted to branch out and ing her desire to work there strong agricultural base From in seasons a decade of running New which we opened folks know len, doors, and what grows when.my neighbors, being to the downtown region do something different. as she saw their vision for many astates leads our Orleans bakerytoand coffee have embraced us with a partofof the fabric of their and effort to energize local Daily coffee shop runs be- the shop’s role in the comFor example, the blooms economic sustainabilshop, birthed ity.

Accelerator open arms, thearedaily red leaf maple a largelives and watching business. Aside from their fore work were part of my munity.

Many consider it to be aspreading pollen and and nectar their source Coffee & Pastry.a daunting thought Future plans for the shop word what enthusiastically, families develop and namesake goods, Accel- routine and I just loved the for bees.custom- grow,” said Dawn. humans would becoming do without regular “The inspiration behind erator Coffee & Pastry also amount of care and consid- are to let it grow organi3Athe coffee Wednesday, September 25, Alyssa 2024 Combining his passion insects like honeybees. opening shop New barista ers who have integrated The shop’s location in- sells locally made products eration the baristas put into cally.

According to Clemson for honeybees and skills comes from a combination Wieland joined the team Accelerator into their daily spired its name. Being in the such as pottery from Paw their work,” said Searson.

Extension, the annual con- as a master carpenter, earlier this year, and Dawn Print Pottery in Barnwell, “Even though it was just tribution of honeybees to Ronnie can also provide flower bouquets from Riv- coffee, the experience made has goals of hiring a mornU.S. food production is esti- bee-removal services in the endell Farms in Williston, it much more,” she said. ing baker before the end of mated to be $10 billion, pol- Barnwell, Allendale, Aiken, macaroons from The Pastry Searson experiments the year; otherwise, they’re linating crops like apples, Columbia, and Augusta, blueberries, cantaloupes, Ga., areas.

Case, and goods from God- with different flavor com- going to see where the shop Alexandra Whitbeck With a bee-vacuum in watermelon, squash, and Reporter bee’s Goats. binations to create custom takes them.

The People-Sentinel • Wednesday, May 8, 2024 • Page 3B much more. In South Car- hand, Ronnie can gently reporter@thepeoplesentinel.com The Sneads are currently “The business also ex- drinks and encourages cusolina alone, annual cash remove large colonies udes our passion for sus- tomers to try out something in the process of renovating receipts for commercially from attics, chimneys, and tainability initiatives such new, which is one of her fa- the former Berley’s Drug am i l y apples, i s a t cantaloupes, the just about anywhere. As grown forefront of the Store on the Circle in downas using ethically sourced vorite parts of the job.

Ronnie and Cassie Moore, owners of R&C Low Country Bees in Kline, attend events cucumbers, and water- an added bonus, he can Town of Blackville’s coffee beans and eco-friend“When creating drinks, town Barnwell alongside and festivals to share about the importance of pollinators. They are pictured here at the melons are estimated at $25 then repair any damage newest business. estatemother, development ly compostable packaging I pull inspiration from my Blackville Music & Arts Festival. he left trying to access and million.

Jeff Miller Brandy mom, family, coaches and realHunter’s Sistas Closet, opened with all of our products, own experiences,” said company Sports Writer However, maintaining remove the bees. and operated by sisters Zorn, wasAshar asked Enterprisabout her teammates.” sports@thepeoplesentinel.com “He canCoffee make it&look like were recognized by and gives us a meaning- Searson, who often finds es. The former pharmacy honey bee Searson populations R&C Low Country met with some prominent Dawn Snead and Adrian Pastry Rita Pernell, Pearlene Lee, with Accelerator Zorn knows that the Cita- thoughts on her son’s signnothing ever happened,” comes with challenges far Bees also offers honey figures across the country Evelyn Thomas, and Ethel doors as a “MacGuyver-ing the City of Barnwell for their contributions to the community. Pictured with Snead and ful way to contribute to herself ing.reopen Brandyitsresponded, del will be hard work. He will ofretail theirand own members hives. said bee removal, on-site wax and discussed newBerry, ways is outside offering later this so year. local non-profit efforts we drinks.”

Searson are both past ofCassie. the city council. saying, proud3B of plans to major• in criminal diner n“With Weand dsociety n present e s d aykeeping Once the bees are safely The People-Sentinel Wednesday, May 8, “I’m 2024 • Page dipping for bee hives, and to tend to their hives. consignment clothing as Find Accelerator She especially loves whena Hunter!

Photo By: Alexandra Whitbeck / Reporter are passionate about,” said Hunter setCoffee high justice and envisions May 1, Jefferson well as alterations right lawns on the manicured and removed, Ronnie brings pollination services to In April 2024, 20 colonies Pastry 218 Main Street, Dawn. customers beofsurforat himself at a young career in ask the to field law &goals Davis Academy Main Street. the manicured highways, them back to Kline under local farmers. of honeybees made the of new personal passion, com‘Accelerator Coffeehis & same building as the PalAn integral part of prised the flavors age. Hunter has chased uponwith graduation.

Heinis visit standout athlete, Hunter Providing work attire his Dawn. care. you’re killing allroutines,” of the bees’ said However, none of these move to their home munity connection, and the Facebook, or boy call The community’s enthumetto IInnovation Center, a Accelerator Coffee & Pastry their morning drink; “I’m Pastry’ to formal dresses with the dreamsonfrom a small looking forward to playing Zorn, to play foot“A lot of times where food,” said Ronnie.

“So that products or services would in Kline and Ronnie gotsigned make a custom fit, desire ability to and have topCitadel. quality 395-9244. has only fueled built to help entrepre- is their head barista, Adrian blown by theline amount playing local rec league on theaway defensive for the (803) ball fortoThe remove them the is outspace of peoputs back on thesiasm beekeeper be possible without the to work stabilizing Sistas ispastries aidingfeed in team’s the Jeff Miller Hunter’s mother, Brandy ple’sto houses build-and small businesses Searson, who Dawn de- ofmom, to constantly them and passion Ronnie has for seeshowing Cassie toCloset to now college level Bulldogs.

Hunter is expected to coffeehow and delicious Accelerator Coffee & passion turn and the oldneurs trust family, people coaches place in and my football Writer chargeSports toward increasing Zorn, was asked her teammates.” saidwhere Ronnie. accelerate “I’ll get their ideas, it was scribes as essential in giving hands give them and aings,” ing the honeybee populagraft queens.in downtown football.

Hunter said at a When about his Pastry play defensive linethe forproteins the into Barnwell,” also offersabout delivery shop place to getasked it right.” sports@thepeoplesentinel.com local business in the town. thoughts on he herwebsite son’s signZorn knows that the Cita- through the combcreate, and thefitting honeythat the coffee shop customers a special experistuff that they normally tion thrive in this region.

“Queens are the heart of playing daysher athusband, Jefferson Bulldogs. young age would have said Dawn. their and can connect, Searson and W h e n oZorn r i g i helped n a l p llead alocals ns del will be hard work.

He ing.

Brandy responded, the bees and I’llemulated bring it this initiative. would get from nature.”

“As a beekeeper, we call the colony, and whenever Davis Academy, heprior said, DoorDash. the JDA Raiders another a State Championship ring Accelerator Coffee &space and supportand each other. ence.

Allen, met the Sneads fell through for to the plans to major in criminal saying, “I’m so proud of n We n e s dpractice ay is adcostly for back here. I’ll save the comb. the bees our friends, our you are able to graftroughly queens “My favorite memory at on his finger one day! That great year, culminating sixIt months ago, in thea justice and envisions a Hunter! Hunter set high May 1, Jefferson I’ll cut it out right away so girls, our compadrés, famsisters saw anFootball opportunity JDA would have to be winSCISA 8-Man State happened his senior year! career in the field of law Davis Academy goals for himself at a young I can reuse it, and I’ll put it ily, because we’ve got so to start an entrepreneurial ning the State ChampionChampionship.

Hunter alsohas made a stateupon graduation.

He is age. standout athlete,asHunter Hunter chased his in empty frames. I’ll make much time and love invest- Honey-sticks are one of the journey together sisters, ship inforward footballtowith my dreams JDAsigned head football coach ment that he would play D1 Zorn, to play footlooking playing from a small boy the box up and I’ll put them ed into them,” said Ronnie. many products sold by R&C friends, and now business teammates who will be playing Anthony Reitenour was football somewhere.

That’s on the defensive line for the ball for The Citadel. local rec league right back on their original Ronnie visits his ‘girls’ Low Country Bees. partners. my brothers forever.

I’ll be asked about Hunter’s signall determination and hard Bulldogs.

Hunter is expected to football to now college level comb, and let them start numerous times a day, Through many late nights When his play defensive line forthey the Sistas Closet Hunter saidas athis a around so I the can’t ing with Citadel and work ethic!

I’m proud and early The mornings, generating again.” rarely with a beekeeper’s “probably more times than is a family operation run by four sisters - Rita Pernell, Pearlene Lee, Evelyn Thomas,sticking and Ethelasked Berry -about with helpfootball. of other relatives. playing days at Jefferson Bulldogs.

Zorn has helped lead he would wait to see those boys get young said, “Hunter continumotherage to stand besidehave him made it happen.

After each removal, R&C suit or veil for protec- we breathe,” but it has said, the Raiders another State Zorn Country dons theBees hat of hisanew team, The Citadel, as mom, Brandy Zorn, happily Davis “ JDA Weworked n e ve r harder htoa d tim e , Hunter Low after itAcademy, this year.heMy ad- aas ously and he Championship continues withring his gain tion from stings. He has never deterred him from memory at on great year, culminating in a watches his finger one day!atThat as sisters, to spend time the hive signing Photo By: Donna Miley “My new andceremonies. a colony of vice favorite for younger athletes harder to improve his abiligoals and dreams The worked with honeybees continuing to care for each JDA would win- happened SCISA 8-Man senior year! together,” said Rita bees have a safe place to long enough to know the and every bee in his hives. wanting tohave play to at be a higher ties since theFootball day Pernell.

I State came Citadel. Gohis Bulldogs!” ning the State Champion- Hunter also made a stateChampionship.

“The Lord allowed us to He first got interested Often, Ronnie’s serintricacies of their behavsuit up as a Bulldog are genuinely excited to and replied, “It feels great level would be to always in the doors here and met nity to land.

Good luck to you, Huntretire, and now we’re here.” ship in football with my JDA head football coach ment that he would play D1 can take the place ior, doubled with the re- in beekeeping through a and I vices couldn’t be more see what the future holds to have the opportunity to teammates push yourself to do him. has alsoBlackville excelled er, as your Bulldog football TheHe sisters are who willmore be football Anthony Reitenour was somewhere.

That’s an exterminator search he has done into friend. Ronnie remembers of him.

He has beenwhen for this exceptional young play at the college level. It my in theabout classroom has proud of in school sports and Citadel days and await! natives.

They findand reward asked Hunter’s signbrothersand forever.

I’lland be all determination hard asking him: “‘How do I dealing with honeybeehow they operate. has always been a dream sticking don’t take yoursotime for work ethic! I’m proud as his young man ibeen n with b rai model n The g i n gCitadel a n o tand h e r a pleasure to coach and man.” around I can’t ing specific issues.

“You can tell their tem- get into this?’ He said, ooutside p p o“Hunter r tof u nit.i tHe yand f ocontinur worked r e t items a i l will Making beeswax melts, candles, other havetruly be missed by his Hunter was asked about of mine and I couldn’t have wait granted because goesget by mother to stand beside him has said, has to see those itboys Ronnie is also one of the perament once you open ‘Have lots of money and to their hometown and Hunter become a passion for Cassie.

Zorn dons thebut hatwe of his team, on Thethe Citadel, as mom, Zorn,God, happily JDA football family, hisnew thoughts signing done Brandy it without my after way faster youMy think.” hard to earn the opportuously worked harder and it thisthan year. ad- as he continues with his patience.’ So, I don’t have Alexandra Whitbeck Reporter

reporter@thepeoplesentinel.com

DIVISIONS E & F COMBINED

A

Allendale News

Business 8A

What’s buzzing in Kline?

Growing honey bee farm helps local pollinators Alexandra Whitbeck Reporter

FIRST PLACE

Alexandra Whitbeck The People-Sentinel

reporter@thepeoplesentinel.com

A

Page 4B • Wednesday, May 8, 2024 • The People-Sentinel

Page 4B • Wednesday, May 8, 2024 • The People-Sentinel

beekeeper and his allergic-to-bees wife make the perfect pair. Ronald and Cassandra Moore, or Ronnie and Cassie, are growing their passion into a business.

R&C Low Country Bees was born out of Ronnie’s two-decades long interest in honeybees and all the benefits they bring to the local environment.

When he first met Cassie and told her about what he did outside of being a certified master carpenter, she knew her EpiPen and an ice pack would have to be kept within close reach. Thankfully she isn’t severely allergic, and is more attuned to handling the business side of the company rather than dealing directly with the bees themselves.

Cassie has her PhD in educational psychology and used to own a private practice. While she operated her business and grew her passion, Ronnie stood right beside her.

“When he gets excited, I get excited. He’s my best friend. And he helped me with my private practice and it’s only fair that I support him and his passion.

So that’s what I do. I support my husband 100 percent, but I don’t go out to the bees!” said Cassie.

As the couple began to build their business, their home in North, S.C. caught fire and family members became ill, requiring them to put a hold on honeybees and shift focus.

They restarted on a property with a lot of pollinating trees in Kline and built up their hives again to give R&C Low Country Bees another shot.

Ronnie began growing a sustainable stock of bees, establishing hives, and continuously learning how to better care for his winged-friends; Cassie developed a website, an Etsy storefront, procured a business license, and learned to work with beeswax.

By early 2024, the couple was gearing up for the local market season to showcase their services, supplies, and a wide variety of honey products such as soap, wax tarts, candles, and of course, honey.

Business

The People.Sentinel

Boutique dawns new age of Blackville businesses F Hunter Zorn signs to play Citadel football

O Hunter Zorn signs to play Citadel football

O

the boxes,” said Ronnie.

“As a beekeeper, you don’t go at certain times of the day, you don’t go in certain weather.”

Ronnie explained how sensitive bees are to barometric pressure. When the pressure drops, it means rain is near and the bees get much more aggressive.

“As you progress and mess with them over the years, you kind of learn the tricks of what and what not to do,” he said.

During two decades of beekeeping, Ronnie believes he has gotten stung

few certified to dip hives the surrounding region, Photo By: Donna Miley vice for younger athletes goals and dreams at The harder to improve his abili- watches the signing ceremonies. the roughly 2,500 and make your own and queens, supporting localbeekeep- in wax on-site. This mainties since the daythe I came wanting to play at a higher Citadel. Go Bulldogs!” ersover in South Carolina. When tains the boxes and frames you become a sustainable economy shopping in the doors here and met nity to suit up as a Bulldog are genuinely excited to and replied, “It feels great level would be to always Good luck to you, Huntbeekeepers are forced to much longer than any entity,” said Ronnie.trips to Aiken or Columbia. him. He has also excelled and I couldn’t be more see what the future holds to have the opportunity to push yourself to do more er, as your Bulldog football food According to Ronnie, A r e tsupplement ail optio n that i s could other type of treatment, in the classroom and has proud of him. He has been for this exceptional young play at the college level. It in school and sports and and Citadel days await! town has provided bynot naturally and comes with a surplus once a beekeeper something has a bethe man.” has always been a dream a pleasure to coach and don’t take your time for been a model young man hadthey for nearly five wildflowers, decades, growing the of other benefits. good stock of bees, truly be missed by his Hunter was asked about of mine and I couldn’t have granted because it goes by outside ofsisters it. He has worked and the are excited will learn more about the costMiller only increases. can graft their eggs to Jeff to asfootball theTo North-South South coachon Mike Beasley done it without God, my way faster than you think.”

JDA family, butsoftwe his thoughts the signing hard to earn thetoopportupeople feel their services

by R&C Wild colonies of honeycreate more queenstoofallow theSports Writer ball game.

Theoffered event will representing the Warhorses best without traveling Low over Country Bees, visit bees do not havefar beekeepsame stock. sports@thepeoplesentinel.com take place days, in this at prestigious All-Star Customers peruse two the racks of clothing Sistas Closet on the first day in business for the Blackville consignment and alteration store. Alexandra Whitbeck / Reporter from of home. https://randclowcountry ers like Ronnie working Another aspect Wednesday, May 29 and classic. is keep going to be or“When I found out I was to them fed,aandThursday, are bees.godaddysites.com/ R&C Low Country “This Bees arnwell Warhorse May 30 at Lexher career.

She acted as a McCathy. Ethel’s alterations renaissance for Blackville certification as a Women’s that Ronnie and Cassie forced to rely on what call (803) 604-6254. e n i the o r start c a t c of,” h e r Business ington Center High by School, in mother selected,figure, I didn’t abelieve it! I mentor, skills only grew upon that yous are the Small are passionate about is nature provides. These and a listening earexcited to many, starting work at the now said BobBre’A Snead, president Administration. n na Buc k- Business Lexington. am grateful and for as the North-South coach Mike Beasley Jeffbeen Miller so sosaid they would closed Burnette’s Cleaners of thehas Southern Palmetto sisters areNorth-South proud softto be South mon chosen to to The The SCCAW themuch game,” Bre’Anna.

Sports Writer keep in touch with her after in Columbia. ball game.

The event will representing the Warhorses R e g i o n a l C h a m b e r o f a part of this movement and participate in the 2024 game features some of the Bre’Anna has been playsports@thepeoplesentinel.com release.

Pearlene got her start in Commerce. take over two days, in this prestigious All-Star serveplace as local representation South Carolina Coaches state’s best senior softball ing softball for nine years “She was built for it,” said alterations with Dennis Sistas Closet is part of a Wednesday, for young women looking May 29 and classic.

Association of Women’s players all at levels. and was asked about her who remembers her Isaac, who had a vision for a recent influx business Thursday, to start afrom similar as Evelyn, arnwellofWarhorse May 30 path, Lex“When I found out I was Sports annual All-Star softBre’Anna Buckmon journey favorite memsister as strong, empathetic, dress and needed someone in the town; well as High honor their will late s e n iao new r c agrocery tch e r ington School, in selected, Iand didn’t believe it! I often join Barnwell and Team am ories.

Sheguiding said, favorite and the hand that to sew it. The pair made a Kahzeer Wesley’s long jumpsball t o r eevent, rBr e cee’A n tnl yn aoreferred p e n ek-d Lexington. sister in the process.

Buc grateful and“My excited for was sometimes dress from two different its doors and chosen two new TheSCCAW journeyNorth-South to business the memories haveneeded. been winperformance at the Regionmon has been to The game,” said Bre’Anna.

lots of money, but I’ve got a lot of patience.”

Ronnie is now a certified beekeeper through the S.C. Mid-State Beekeepers Association, and the couple are both members of the South Carolina State Beekeepers Association.

They find that one of the best ways to understand the evolving world of beekeeping is to make friends within the field and always be willing to learn.

Attending conferences and seminars are only some of the ways they have

Good coverage of local businesses!

Bre’Anna Buckmon selected for North-South softball game

B Bre’Anna Buckmon selected for North-South softball game

B

BUSINESS BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION D

THIRD PLACE Jay King Greenville Journal

SECOND PLACE Jack O’Toole Charleston City Paper

BUSINESS BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION D

FIRST PLACE

Charles D. Perry The Post and Courier Myrtle Beach/Georgetown Times Perry tackles business stories that involve complicated issues such as annexation and zoning where they interact with local, state, regional and national trends. He intersperses the narrative with appropriate comments from affected parties and interested experts, resulting in highly readable, informative business journalism.

BUSINESS BEAT REPORTING

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THIRD PLACE Elizabeth Brewer The Sun News

SECOND PLACE Dede Biles Aiken Standard

BUSINESS BEAT REPORTING

DIVISIONS B & C COMBINED

FIRST PLACE

John Marks The Herald

Although Marks’ all are about controversy surrounding a planned solar-panel manufacturing plant, his thorough, balanced reporting enlightened Herald readers about how a seeming straight forward story – whether a plant using “possibly” toxic material should be allowed next to public schools – can be complicated by any number of issues. Well done!

BUSINESS BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION A

THIRD PLACE Chris Lavender The Post and Courier

SECOND PLACE John McDermott The Post and Courier

BUSINESS BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION A

FIRST PLACE

Jessica Holdman South Carolina Daily Gazette Very well done, well-researched stories on completely different topics, but interesting stories. They appeal not only to business “readers” but everyone.

superintendent Bethany Giles as the district’s interim superintendent this week.

“The board is confident in Dr. Giles’ ability to serve as interim superintendent,” School

familiar with GCSD, and we look forward to working with her as we move through

Bethany Giles

first day of the 2024-25 school year. Price is leaving to become the superintendent-elect of the Richland 1 School District.

The board also approved a contract with the S.C. School

Scott Price of the school boards association, who is no relation to the current superintendent, told the board he expects the work to cost $15,000, plus up to another $7,000 for

The board hopes to name the next superintendent by the end of October.

Giles is a graduate of Andrews High School who joined See “Schools,” Page 4

GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT BEAT REPORTING SALES TAX

County considers bond issue to speed projects

DIVISIONS E & F COMBINED

By Charles Swenson COASTAL OBSERVER

THIRD PLACE

Charles Swenson/Coastal Observer

WACCAMAW HIGH SPORTS | Soccer playoffs

Two tickets to state championship

Charles Swenson Coastal Observer Boys break through for first title challenge as girls return to defend their 2023 title

By Chris Sokoloski COASTAL OBSERVER

Eleven times in the last 23 years the Waccamaw High School boys soccer team advanced to the Lower State final and lost.

The 12th time was the charm as the Warriors beat Hanahan 3-1 on Monday and will play for the Class 3A state title on Friday, That will be right after Waccamaw’s girls play for their second straight state soccer title.

“It’s a relief,” boys’ coach Joel Sapp said. “It’s about time.”

“It’s something we’ve been waiting for all four years,” said Trey Jones, one of the team’s 12 seniors. “It’s probably the best feeling in my life.”

“It feels absolutely amazing.

Words can’t describe it,” said Truman Miller, a senior. “We’ve been working so hard towards it these past three years, it feels so great to finally be here.”

Sapp was a member of the first Waccamaw boys soccer team to play for a Lower State title in 2001. He was also a player, assistant coach or head coach for 10 of the other losses.

Waccamaw’s girls beat Camden 7-3 in the Lower State final on Tuesday.

“It’s awesome. This is special,” Warriors coach Mark Sanchez said.

“I told the girls, ‘I did not want it to end here.’ If we’re going to lose our See “Soccer,” Page 2

COASTAL OBSERVER

Chris Sokoloski/Coastal Observer

Trey Jones, top center, opens the score in the Lower State title match. Above, the girls celebrate their return to the state finals.

With voter approval, work on tens of millions of dollars of capital projects could start sooner rather than later. The commission that is due to present a list of projects to County Council this month is also expected to recommend that the county issue bonds to fund some of the work.

That’s a change from the proposal outlined last year, when the capital projects sales tax was seen as a pay-as-yougo proposition. It is expected to generate about $10 million a year and the revenue would be applied to projects in the order they appear on a referendum ballot that will be placed before voters in November.

The county received 63 requests for a share of the tax revenue totaling more than $200 million. A six-member commission began meeting in January to solict projects, rank them and draft the ballot question.

The commission members are due to review their preliminary rankings at a virtual meeting Friday.

“We’ve got lots of agreement at the top,” said Mark Hawn, who chairs the commission.

“There’s a ton of debate to have in the middle.”

The county staff was still reviewing the results at midweek.

By issuing bonds, the county may also be able to fund more projects because it will reduce the impact of inflation.

See “Sales tax,” Page 4

LAND USE | Updating the comprehensive plan

Changing maps raise questions about the future

Vol. XLIII No. 3

Pawleys Island, South Carolina ~ June 27, 2024

$1.50

By Charles Swenson COASTAL OBSERVER

Analysis shows zoning code allows 25,000 more homes

By Charles Swenson COASTAL OBSERVER

If the Waccamaw Neck develops under the zoning ordinance in place today, another 25,201 homes could be built before the area runs out of suitable land, according to data from consultants who are updating Georgetown County’s land use plan.

But if the area develops as envisioned by the current land use plan, only another 11,456 dwellings would be allowed,

said Jake Petrosky, a community planner with Stewart, a North Carolina firm.

If the area develops as envisioned by the proposed update to the plan, the number of new dwellings would rise to 12,622, an increase of 10 percent, he said.

The numbers were compiled by consultants after the citizens group Keep It Green produced its own study showing the proposed land use plan would increase density on the Waccamaw Neck.

EDUCATION | Keith Price departs

Heavy equipment started work this spring clearing 8.8 acres at the corner of Martin Luther King Road and Petigru Drive for a 22-lot subdivision.

Seen from the street, it’s an example of the growth that many residents feel is overwhelming the community.

Seen from the proposed maps that show how the area will grow in the future, it’s a sign of growth yet to come.

A draft of Georgetown County’s future land use maps proposes changing the designation of that tract and a handful of adjacent lots from “medium

LAND USE

Neighbors file suit over creekfront development

This tract on Petigru Drive, now being developed with 22 single family homes, is shown in the future as suited to a mix of residential and commercial uses.

Charles Swenson/Coastal Observer

density residential” to “village center.”

The current designation indicates the area is suitable for 2.1 to 5 dwellings an acre. The development under way by the national homebuilder Toll Brothers will have 3.9 units an acre.

As a village center, a See “Land use,” Page 3

COASTAL OBSERVER

By Charles Swenson

COASTAL OBSERVER

Neighboring property owners have gone to court claiming Georgetown County Council exceeded its authority when The audience applauds a speaker at the council hearing it approved a residential develObituaries .................................. 2 who called on the county to reject the revised land plan. opment on Pawleys Creek.

Crime.......................................... 5 The suit filed last week in Vol. XLIII No. 6 Pawleys Island, South Carolina ~ July 18, 2024 $1.50 They estimated that the body agrees this increases den- Circuit Court is the fifth filed Opinion ......................................6 proposed plan would add over sity. It’s unacceptable to the within the last two-and-a-half Crossword ................................ 10 4,000 residential units to what citizens,” said Cindy Person, years challenging the county’s Classifieds .................................11 chief counsel for Keep It Green land use decisions. Three were the current plan envisions.

Property transfers ................... 12 See “Plan,” Mothers Page 4 dismissed by lower court judg“The bottom line is, everyOnline Day: Moms es and are now on appeal. An coastalobserver.com celebrate appeal in the fourth is pending their child’sfrom the

By Charles Swenson Group announced an email from North Litchfield to Hagley Hallock is one of the foundproperty ownerinwho Special days: Two nonprofits let indepenfinishes COASTAL OBSERVER last week. the team following year, but the issue ers of Keep It Green, a citizens asked unsuccessfully to beSports: re- WHS golf people with disabilities show off dence. third Lower never State. came to a vote because group created in 2019 to oppose said to thethe only way to at block moved as a It party suit. their skills.

Second Front Page 8 Page 10 Twenty-five years after a leadoptionowners of a neware land use the state incorporation statute residential development on the The the property gal challenge derailed an effort element to the county’s former Litchfield Racquet Club. challenging the rezoning of 8.3 com- was ruled unconstitutional. to form a new town on the Wacprehensive plan is to create a All the efforts came in re- That group went on to chalacres between the creek and camaw Neck, a group says it has new town on what the group sponse to county land use de- lenge a series of land use deciHighwaycalls 17 to a “flexible design spent more than a year study“Lower Waccamaw Neck.” cisions. sions though a spinoff: Keep It district” with single-family ing the issue and is ready to If it 27 proceeds, it will be the Andy Hallock, who is the Green Advocacy. homes, afourth projecttime known Magmove forward as a response to in as four decades chairman of the new group, deHallock, a River Club resiic Oaks.

The property was preGeorgetown County’s update of area residents have tried to clined to be interviewed about dent, is no longer a member of viously zoned residen-Island its work its future land use plan. form a“general town. Pawleys the Keep It Green board and the Charles Swenson/Coastal Observer “This is the viable alterin 1985. The Litch“It’s a little early to talk with study group says it is “not affiltial” andsucceeded “general commercial.” native to replace the unincor- County Council’s approval fieldsaid Beaches failed was in a 1989 the press. When we have more iated with any other organizaThe suit the change last referendum and withdrew a answers of course we will look tion.” porated County government of the land use planvoid because the zoning should re-been we live under today,” the Paw- month drew an angry proposal in 1997.

Another civ- forward to talking with you,” he The study group has not have changed to “conserleys Litchfield Municipal Study sponse from residents.vation preservation” ic group tried to See “Town,” Page 3 to create matcha town said in an email. the property’s designation on the future land use maps that are part of the county’s comWACCAMAW HIGH prehensive plan. It argues that state law required the county to rezone the property to conser-

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Charles Swenson/Coastal Observer

Land use disputes drive effort to form a new town

Superintendent sees security as his legacy

By Chris Sokoloski COASTAL OBSERVER

When Keith Price took over as superintendent of the Georgetown County School District in 2020, the world was in the grip of a pandemic.

“The first year-and-a-half was just consumed with COVID. No one was really thinking about anything but how to navigate through COVID,” Price said. “While those were some challenging days, it seems like

‘Shine Tyrese’s light,’

SECOND PLACE

Barbara Ball The Voice of Fairfield County

GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT BEAT REPORTING

DIVISIONS E & F COMBINED

FIRST PLACE

Mandy Catoe The Lancaster News

Comprehensive coverage of the restoration efforts.

GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION D

THIRD PLACE

Caleb Bozard The Post and Courier Columbia/ Free Times

SECOND PLACE Elizabeth Hustad The Post and Courier North Augusta/The Star

GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION D

FIRST PLACE

Megan Fitzgerald Greenville Journal

These articles do a good job of detailing growth and development in Greenville. Each article breaks down details and provides great supporting information.

GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT BEAT REPORTING

DIVISIONS B & C COMBINED

THIRD PLACE

Gene Zaleski The Times and Democrat

SECOND PLACE Ben Morse The Sun News

GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT BEAT REPORTING

DIVISIONS B & C COMBINED

FIRST PLACE

Chloe Appleby The Island Packet

Interesting topic and fun to read.

GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION A

THIRD PLACE Anna Sharpe The Post and Courier

SECOND PLACE Conor Hughes The Post and Courier

GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION A

FIRST PLACE

Spencer Donovan The Post and Courier

Reporter shows how an anonymous property owner’s seemingly small decisions can change a neighborhood and a city.

On a regional scale, an enlightening look at water wars.

EDUCATION BEAT REPORTING

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

SECOND PLACE

THIRD PLACE

Megan Fitzgerald Greenville Journal

Emma Slaven The Daniel Island News 02 | NEWS thedanielislandnews.com

The Daniel Island News ■ March 7 - 13, 2024

Drive-by celebration!

PSH students show support for classmate’s remission from cancer

04 | NEWS thedanielislandnews.com

EMMA SLAVEN emma@thedanielislandnews.com It’s been nearly five months since 18-year-old Will Bearden walked the halls of Philip Simmons High School, but that didn’t stop the entire school from showing up to support him.

On a recent Friday afternoon, students from PSHS crowded the front of the school to celebrate their classmate Bearden, who was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia in October.

The disease is an aggressive form of leukemia, and his battle has kept him away from school and most of his friends. Intense chemotherapy treatments and separate blood and lung infections caused the high school senior to spend over 100 nights in the hospital.

Now in remission, Bearden is in the last few weeks of hospital stays and plans to enjoy the rest of his senior year after he is released.

To celebrate winning the difficult cancer battle, his schoolmates devised a plan to support their fellow Iron Horse.

“The idea came together after we conversed about how Will was doing healthwise,” said Walt Gregg, a student at

10 | NEWS thedanielislandnews.com

New regulation gives SC Dept. of Education final say on school book selections EMMA SLAVEN

emma@thedanielislandnews.com

PROVIDED PHILIP SIMMONS HIGH SCHOOL

PSH students and staff crowd outside the school in support of Will Bearden. The school organized a drive-by celebration to recognize Bearden’s remission from acute myeloid leukemia.

PSHS and friend of Bearden.

English teacher Laura Garner helped the National Honor Society, Beta Club members, and Bearden’s closest classmates and teachers hatch a plan to cheer him on in person.

“As a mother of three sons, I couldn’t help but feel strongly about what his family was dealing with,” Garner said.

“Knowing what a great kid Will is, always willing to lend a

Find Your Island

hand no matter what the task is, I wanted to do something more than send a card, although we did that too.”

After brainstorming various methods to congratulate Bearden in person, Gregg said, “Ms. Garner had the idea to relocate the plan to the school and, much like we do for our school’s state teams, cheer him on as he drove by.”

See REMISSION on PAGE 10

The Daniel Island News ■ April 25 - May 1, 2024

BCSD considers incorporating Cainhoy history into curriculum

corridor’s legacy.

“This is for our kids who were born and raised here,” he said.

“They don’t know the history yet Teaching the stories of centuriesof what’s around them and where it old Native American settlements came from.” and slave villages on Cainhoy soil MaeRe Skinner, an advocate may be coming to Berkeley County and lifelong resident of Cainhoy, School District classrooms. presented binders with potential The district is considering implecurriculum for students, including menting Cainhoy history into its historical knowledge passed down educational curriculum to recognize through generations. the corridor’s local history.

The binders featured hundreds A recent gathering at the Keith of pages of archaeological reports, School Museum brought together testing records, overviews of Caindistrict officials, including Superin124 FELDMAN COURT 1549 WILLTOWN STREET hoy properties, historical narratives tendent Anthony Dixon, alongside CLOSED | $2,962,500 UNDER CONTRACT | $1,875,000 from locals, insights into the Oak members of the Cainhoy commuBluff cemetery and its once-lost nity. The meeting served as a first graves, and the recent discovery of discussion of potentially integrating IslandHouseRealEstate.com Tricia Peterson + Owner & Broker EMMA SLAVEN slave death certificates. the curriculum into area schools, 843.847.1762 Community activist Fred Lincoln discusses adding Cainhoy history into the school district’s curriculum in IslandHouseRealEstate a recent “There are archeological reports including the three Philip Simmons meeting at the Keith School Museum. Berkeley County school officials and Cainhoy community members listened that date back over 300 years,” schools, Daniel Island School, and RES I DEN T I AL + C OMME R C IAL R E AL E STATE + R E NOVATIONS & MOR E in.

Skinner said. “We’re talking about Cainhoy Elementary School. war here; we’re talking about preThe initiative is spearheaded by who received his education at the At the meeting, Lincoln shed archaeological findings in CainFred Lincoln, a longstanding activ- Keith School until its closure in light on historical narratives misshoy’s backyard, and expressed ist within the Cainhoy community, 1956. ing from textbooks, and recent the importance of preserving the See HISTORY on PAGE 11

EMMA SLAVEN

emma@thedanielislandnews.com

JARROD

The Daniel Island News ■ August 15 - 21, 2024

Book ban update:

Last fall, when a parent challenged 93 books, seeking to remove them from county schools, the Berkeley County School District moved forward with speed.

It dusted off its in-house policy to determine if any of the titles deserved to be shelved and went into action.

Citizen comments were heard.

Book review committees of parents, librarians, and staff were formed.

And after a round of committee debates, a list of titles was sent to the superintendent for a final thumbs-up or thumbs-down.

But then, everything stopped.

At its board meeting on Dec. 4, 2023, the district put a halt to its book review process.

It suspended making what could have been a divisive community decision, and instead decided to wait on a pending regulation from the South Carolina Department of Education that would ultimately take that controversial decision out of its hands.

The state regulation, which was officially adopted on June 25, gives the state’s education department – not local municipalities or counties – final authority over what books are deemed appropriate for all state school libraries, book clubs, and classrooms.

By taking away the final decision from local school districts, the Uniform Procedure for Selection or Reconsideration of Instructional Materials is said to eliminate the “current patchwork of district practices” by establishing “a clear, transparent, and uniform process that provides certainty for local educators, respects the legitimate prerogatives of parents, and protects students from materials that are not age- or developmentally appropriate.”

But some critics think otherwise – calling the regulation one of most restrictive book ban policies in the country.

WHO GETS THE FINAL SAY? The new regulation, which was spearheaded by education superintendent Ellen Weaver, is in place when the 2024-2025 school year begins and applies to schools statewide, including Berkeley County public schools.

According to the regulation: ● Instructional materials are defined as “materials used in a South Carolina K-12

public school classroom, made available in a public school library, or included on a public school’s reading list… This includes any collection of books or materials purchased, acquired, donated, or kept on public school grounds by any teacher or school employee and made available to students.” Sex education materials are the only exception. ● Age and developmentally appropriate materials are defined as “topics, messages, materials, and teaching methods suitable to particular ages or age groups of children and adolescents, based on developing cognitive, emotional, and behavioral capacity typical for the age group.” Material is defined as not “age and developmentally appropriate” for all ages and grade levels if it includes “depictions or visual depictions of sexual conduct.” ● The State Board of Education has the final say in local disputes over material appropriateness. A ruling by the State Board on a challenged book applies statewide.

Patrick Kelly, director of government affairs for the Palmetto State Teachers Association, expressed concerns about the regulation’s “vague” definitions.

“Any description or depiction of sex in a book would make it age-inappropriate for all grade levels under this regulation,” Kelly said, pointing out that these depictions can be found in classics like “To Kill a Mockingbird,” William Shakespeare plays, and even The Bible.

“It treats age appropriateness the same for a five-year-old as it does for an 18-year-old,” he said.

“So often these kinds of issues can be resolved through a conversation between a parent and an educator, and in doing so, that will allow a parent to exercise their right to be involved in their child’s education,” he said. “But if you elevate this immediately to the state board level, then you are potentially getting involved in determining what’s available to other people’s children.”

THE NEW PROCESS FOR CHALLENGING MATERIALS Under the new rule, parents or guardians who find materials inappropriate can still file a challenge for their specific child.

Under Regulation 43-170, a complaint and request to review instructional material can only be filed by a “parent or legal guardian of any student who attends a school within a

PROVIDED BY BCSD

Under the South Carolina Department of Education’s new regulation, the state board, not local school districts, will have the final authority to remove books from classrooms and school libraries if not deemed age appropriate. school district.” The complaint can only be filed after the parent or guardian has “made a good faith effort to address their concerns” at the school level and “read or watched” the challenged materials. Only five books can be challenged at one time.

The parent or guardian must file their complaint with the local school board, which the board must review within 90 days. If the parent or guardian disagrees with the board’s ruling, they can appeal to the state board, giving the state the last word.

Decisions by the state board become binding statewide, meaning a single district’s challenge can impact all schools in South Carolina.

Jason Raven, the state education’s director of media relations, said the new regulation is not a book ban. “Parents in Berkeley County, or any county statewide, are still free to purchase these books on their own. This just relates to what can be bought with government money and used in schools,” he said.

According to the policy’s executive summary, “This regulation says nothing about what children or parents can buy and read on their own time and dime.”

But lawmakers and local advocates disagree.

Local free speech organizations, publishers, and nearly 400 American authors condemned the regulation as a “book ban.”

In an open letter organized by PEN America, the coalition warned of the detrimental impact on students’ freedom to read, stating that the “regulations pose a threat to the freedom to read, to the detriment of students across South Carolina.”

The ACLU of South Carolina also criticized the regulation, with advocacy director Josh Malkin saying, “Superintendent Weaver is seeking to hand unprecedented power to

pro-censorship groups, overriding students’ freedom to read as well as parents’ right to direct their own children’s education.”

In addition to the critics of the regulation, there is also additional scrutiny regarding the way the policy was passed over the summer.

The regulation was proposed earlier this year and approved by the South Carolina Education Department before being sent to the South Carolina General Assembly for review.

Lawmakers had 120 days to scrutinize and vote on the regulation. However, due to an oversight, they missed the deadline, causing the regulation to automatically go into effect.

IMPLEMENTATION & IMPACT With the start of the new academic year, school staff and teachers statewide will have to reevaluate their teaching materials and keep an eye out for further instructions from the South Carolina Department of Education.

According to BCSD spokesperson Katie Tanner, the district and its counsel are in the process of reviewing the state regulations to determine alignment with district’s current policies.

Tanner said, “Statewide policy changes often come with model policies from the state Board of Education or the School Board Association. If policy changes are needed, they then go before our Board for approval.”

Of the 93 books challenged last year, Tanner said, “No challenged books were removed as the process was suspended pending the approval of the proposed state regulations.”

As far as the status of the books challenged last year, Tanner said, “It is under review.”

Patrick Villegas and Suzanne Detar contributed to this story.

EDUCATION BEAT REPORTING

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

FIRST PLACE

Thomas Hyslip Tega Cay Sun

Interesting read. Lots of information that was easy to navigate.

EDUCATION BEAT REPORTING

DIVISIONS B & C COMBINED

THIRD PLACE Emalyn Muzzy The Sun News

SECOND PLACE John Marks The Herald

EDUCATION BEAT REPORTING

DIVISIONS B & C COMBINED

FIRST PLACE

Gene Zaleski The Times and Democrat This author put a lot of work into the research and data for these articles. It was presented clearly, and the author demonstrated understanding of all the information. The writing was also of good quality.

EDUCATION BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION A

Scholastic back-to-school issue book club ages preschool to �th grade. ������ �������� �����

Fear Schumacher said she understands why Greenville's school district is being careful: fear.

"I think teachers, our teachers, are fearful," Schumacher said. "And districts are fearful. And community partners are fearful. You know, I've had funders say to us, 'I'm sorry, we can't fund your literacy program because we're worried about reputational risk if something happens with a book.'"

Under the state book-ban regulation, nobody knows what the state board would or could do to a public school employee who breaks the rules, Gregory said.

SECOND PLACE

THIRD PLACE

Anna B. Mitchell The Post and Courier

Skylar Laird South Carolina Daily Gazette

https://www.postandcourier.com/education-lab/teacher-jobs-�lled-greenville/article_�����e-�ac�-��ef-b����f��b����d��.html

https://www.postandcourier.com/education-lab/greenville-book-fairs-cancelled-book-bans/article_dbe�����-�fe�-��efb�d�-������a���ae.html

How do you start the school year with no teacher vacancies?

Greenville has some answers.

Book fairs canceled in Greenville County in wake of new SC bookban rules

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��� ��, ���� https://www.postandcourier.com/education-lab/greenville-parents-autistic-children-action/article_��������-�a��-��efa���-d�e����af��e.html

Greenville parents of autistic kids demand action. School board adjourns without comment. �� ���� �. �������� ��������� ��������������.��� ��� ��, ����

Reading books aloud to children helps them develop language and listening skills, and it prepares them to understand the wri�en word. ���� ������ �������� �����

GREENVILLE — Schools in the state's largest district will have no book fairs this year.

A vigil was held in memory of student Lionel Cervantes, at Bells Crossing Elementary School in Simpsonville on Sept. ��, ����.

Jon Moldovan, an Army veteran with a master's in business from Clemson, teaches a lesson on marketing on Tuesday, Sept. � Cervantes, �, was found in a pond near the school after he ran from a classroom Thursday morning. ����, at Riverside High School in Greenville County. ���� ��� ������ ������� �� ��� ���� ��� ������� ���� �. �������� �����

In an email to all Greenville County school principals, district leaders said they would "pause" the popular fundraisers this year to give themselves time to �gure out how to manage book

GREENVILLE — It has been �� days since a deputy coroner, a paramedic and a �re chief

sales in schools under new state regulations that mandate schools keep only "age-appropriate"

lifeless body of Leo Cervantes under the water of a shallow pond outside GREENVILLE — Sgt. Jon Moldovan was leading troops in Afghanistanspotted when the a rocket

exploded above him and sent shrapnel into his thigh.

Simpsonville.

materials for students on their shelves.

The men were crewing a small boat to the spot near a pier, led there by K-� units with the Greenville County Sheri� 's O�ce.

EDUCATION BEAT REPORTING

DIVISION A

FIRST PLACE

Bristow Marchant The State

This contest is packed with outstanding education reporting on a variety of important topics. Marchant’s beat selections cover a contentious and challenging period for education in South Carolina. His reporting included diverse voices and fairly explains issues and impact on SC teachers and students.

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BRIDGEFLATION T-bridge renovation costs keep rising and rising

By CODY SOSSAMON Ledger Publisher cody@gaffney Ledger.com

CHIPPER BOY Gaffney golfer Ty Childers hits a chip shot on the 12th hole at Cherokee National during the Region II-5A Tournament. Childers led the Indians to a resounding 24 shot victory by shooting a 1-under 70-73-143 for the 36-hole event. See the story on Page 8.

(Ledger photo by CODY SOSSAMON)

The cost to renovate Gaffney’s Tbridge just went up.

Again.

And a lot.

The original contract amount of $1,579,479.75 has ballooned to $4,557,447.50.

The Ledger reported last week that the repair of structural issues was going to cost $2 million, bringing the price tag to $3,579,479.75.

A request by this newspaper for the price of any previous change orders was supplied by the SC Department of Transportation (SCDOT). Those changes added almost another $1 million — $977,967.75 to be exact.

According to Rob Perry, SCDOT Deputy Secretary for Engineering, those change orders include wall repairs along S. Granard Street, additional quantities for necessary spall repairs, girder/beam replacement, and other structural repair items.

“We are going to have to demolish a portion of the bridge deck to be able to replace span 1, girder 5 and span 2, girder 5,” Perry said in an email. “ We are also cleaning and painting the steel

beams, replacing the bearings and expansion joints. This additional work is being funded with federal bridge repair funding, and will be at no cost to the city or county.”

Perry supplied the following to show how the project is being funded: • Funding Sources: $1M TAP with 20% match provided by City of Gaffney; $931k TAP with 20% match provided by State Appropriation Earmark; $314k State Appropriation Earmark; $2.3M State Bridge Repair Program.

Completion is still expected by the end of July, Perry said. The original completion date was the fall of 2023.

In May 2022, it was announced that SCDOT accepted Reeves Construction Company’s bid of $1,579,479 for the renovation project.

It was the third time the project was put out for bid. The SCDOT rejected bids

by Sossamon Construction and Sloan Construction in February of 2022, two years after rejecting a low bid by Sloan of $943,000, which was approximately $300,000 higher than SCDOT’s estimate of $640,000.

Construction of the T-bridge began in April 1919, according to an article in The Gaffney Ledger. Southern Railway built it at an estimated cost of $60,000. It is one of the few such bridges in the world.

‘Had it not been for Mike, my dad would be dead’

By ABBIE SOSSAMON Ledger News Editor abbie@gaffneyledger.com

the bull who backed off for a minute before setting his sights on Carroll.

“Brian was able to get out of the pasture and we assume crawl to the truck,” said

www.gaffneyledger.com

75 CENTS

FRIDAY, APRIL 19, 2024 A newspaper in all that the word implies, devoted to the best interests of the people of Cherokee County.

864-219-0990

Gaffney teenager killed in Spartanburg after being shot

www.gaffneyledger.com

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2024

BooBoo loved everybody and everybody864-649-1150 loved him

WEDNESDAY, MAY 1, 2024

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At the funeral service, there was some sadness and tears but mostly there was joy, praising and celebration of a life well lived by Coach Terence “BooBoo” Ratchford.

Ratchford, who died last Thursday night of congestive heart failure at age 49, was remembered as a caring and loving friend, the football team’s Get-Back coach, a rabid cheerleader, and most of all, as a devout Christian who always praised the Lord.

$

By SCOTT POWELL Ledger Staff Writer spowell@gaffneyledger.com

50

“We are here to celebrate the life of coach Terence BooBoo Ratchford,” said Reverend Kerwin Wray. “We have heavy hearts and tears but it’s a time of celebration. BooBoo wasn’t a sad person he was one of joy and happiness. You couldn’t help but love BooBoo because he loved everybody.”

The funeral was held Wednesday morning at the Gaffney High gymnasium. Bouquets of flowers surrounded Ratchford’s casket. Ratchford wore a Gaffney High baseball cap — a reminder of his undying love for the Gaffney football team. l See BOOBOO, Page 2

A Gaffney teenager was fatally shot in the face around 2 a.m. Sunday while at a house party in Spartanburg.

Spartanburg County Coroner Rusty Clevenger identified the victim as Waco Jermaine Crate Jr., 19, of Gaffney.

Officers from the Spartanburg Police Department responded Sunday, April 14, around 2:11 a.m. to 201 Michael Street in reference to a shooting. The caller stated a group of people were attending a house party when someone started shooting inside the residence.

When officers arrived on the scene, they discovered a male suffering from a gunshot wound.

A male victim, later identified as Crate, was shot once in the face by another un-

75 CENTS

known male, according to a news release from the Spartanburg Police Department.

Police and EMS arrived immediately after the shooting, but were unable to save the victim’s life.

Crate was pronounced dead at the scene by the Spartanburg County Coroner’s Office. Clevenger said the coroner’s office did a forensic exam Monday as part of the ongoing investigation into the shooting.

“I ask you please keep the family of Mr. Crate in your thoughts and prayers during their time of loss and grief,” Clevenger said.

At this point, Spartanburg Police Department officials said there is no suspect(s) information to release.

Anyone with information about the shooting incident is asked to contact the Spartanburg Police Department or Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIMESC.

At Wednesday’s funeral service for Terence BooBoo Ratchford, Congressman Ralph Norman presents BooBoo’s parents, Ruby Hemphill and Warren Ratchford, with a certificate commemorating their son that will be displayed in the (Ledger photo by LARRY HILLIARD) Halls of Congress.

Business owners upset about

lack tax of progress on T-bridge No sales this weekend

GIVE ME LIBERTY...

By CODY SOSSAMON

They will be sanded and painted.

By SCOTT POWELL Ledger Publisher The ones on the railroad side are being Ledger Staff Writer cody@gaffneyledger.com replaced and decorative lights added. spowell@gaffneyledger.com American Revolutionary War re-enactors participated in “Liberty Day” held WednesThose railings were installed in the 1970s day for county students. The school district brought students from fourth, eighth and Several Gaffney residents and busiwhen the bridge was widened, Taylor eleventh grade to Jolly Park for Revolutionary War education events organized by Parents ness owners havemoney contacted Ledger can save onThe new clothes said. for kids and work — or the county’s Liberty 250 team.

Construction Company is the otherabout backthe torenovation school expenses bylack doing theirReeves shopping (Ledger photo by SCOTT POWELL) thereof — of the T-bridge. project contractor. this weekend.

The historic bridge was built in 1919 Renovations to the T-bridge include People any tax on computers, school and iswon’t one of pay the few ofsales similar design in improvements to the sidewalks and railsupplies, clothes, shoes, printers, shoes and certain bed of posts and fencing, the world.

Other than the Saint-Amand ings, replacement and bath items during South Carolina’s 25th annual tax Bridge on Hyatt Street, it is the only resurfacing of the structure, and cosroute over the railroad tracks. metic work. free weekend.

The 72-hour tax holiday starts today (FriBy ABBIE SOSSAMON in the home as well.

“When trains come through town and day) and continues through Sunday, Aug. 4 at midLedger News Editor When officers arrived, Lyles refused to stop as they often do, the roads come to a night. abbie@gaffneyledger.com exit the home or release the victims. standstill,” said Deborah Perry, owner of can which save on a variety ofon school year essenLyles has numerous incidents with the Shoppers Perry’s Tire, faces the tracks State Sen. Harvey Peeler and Secretary of Transportation Justin Powell (center) joined city and state withoutStreet. paying the state’s 6% sales Local law enforcement were able to Gaffney Police Department of domestic tialsGranard “All of the crossings are tax and applileaders in a ribbon cutting Wednesday to celebrate the re-opening of the Gaffney T-bridge. peacefully resolve a three-hour standoff violence and weapons charges, Blanton cableblocked local taxes.

Eligible items include and without the T-bridge it gets computers, Wednesday night at a Gaffney residence. said. so congested times ourcalculators, customers graduation caps school supplies,atclothing, At 8:33 p.m., City of Gaffney police were The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office can’t even getbed intoand our parking lot. and gowns, and bath items. dispatched to a home in the 600 SWAT team and a hostage negohaven’t seen any work being done The “I tax free weekend comes right before Cherokee block of Willow Street in refertiator also responded to the scene. on the bridge in the past couple of students return to school 8 for the 2024ence to a 911 hang-up call. The The negotiator communicated County months,” she said.

“What is goingAug. on and 2025 when school year. caller advised Cherokee with Lyles through the front door will it be completed?”

By SCOTT POWELL to cross over when trains come and through town.

County dispatchers she needed at approximately 11:33 p.m. “As The inflation drain many Ledgercontinues reported into February that wallets, this Ledger Staff Writer the police and laidGaffney the phone has the only T-bridgeLyles in the United released theStates. victims. due to aFree structural issue found year’s Tax Weekend offersduring somean relief for weary down.

Officers arrested spowell@gaffneyledger.com State Sen. Harvey Peeler called the T-bridge oneLyles of on onefamilies,” inspection, completion date had been Powell in a saidthe SCDOR Director Hartley Dispatchers several continuedunique to count of domestic violence back to the end of July. landmarks in Cherokee County, refer-1st denewspushed release. relay the background convergree and additional charges are That hasn’t changed Gaffney AdminMany county drivers drove across the Gaffney Tencing the Peachoid water tank, the Limestone South Carolina held its first tax free holiday in 2000 sation to officers and were able LYLES pending, Blanton said. istrator James Taylor said Tuesday.

Bridge on their way home from work Wednesday — the tunnel at W.K. Brumbach stadium, and started by the South Carolina Legislature. to determine a quarry, male subject, “The Gaffney Police Depart- and was “The SC Department of Transportajust because they could. county’s rich Revolutionary War history the later identifiedthe as Ryan Anthony Lyles of ment would like to thankwith the Cherokee Last year, Department of Revenue figures showed tion is in charge of the project but I was County and state leaders gathered Wednesday Spartanburg, was in possession of a handBattle of Cowpens and Kings Mountain.

County Sheriff’s Office, the Gaffney FireSouth told they are waiting on the design and million in tax Carolina shoppers bought $30.4 and holding their infant child, acDepartment and EMS for their assistance morning for a ribbon cutting ceremony on thegun Gaffney Peeler thanked the state Department of Transportadelivery of a component to address theholiday. free items during the state’s sales tax cording Majorefforts Brian to restore in helping reach aadding peacefulhe outcome,” structural problem,” Taylor said.

T-bridge. Built in 1919, the bridge had been closed forto Gaffney tionPolice for their theus bridge, School supplies that are tax free include computer Blanton. Two other minor children were Blanton said.

He said he understood the component nearly two years for renovation and repair work by hopes the I-85 widening project will be completed supplies andbeam. musical instruments, such as pianos, is a steel contractor Reeves Construction Company and the soon. After the ceremony, state transportation offiwhen used in the and to classroom.

The work washome scheduled be com- Bicycles, hand The portion of the T-bridge spanning state Department of Transportation (DOT). cials said they expect all lanes open on I-85 by the end sanitizers, andpast refrigerators are pleted this fall, according to not the tax free since they the railroad tracks has numerous fisState Rep. Dennis Moss moved to Cherokee County of the year. original are not usedtimeline. for school assignments. sures where the sidewalk meets the as a Highway Patrol trooper in 1986. He quickly There are plans by Gaffney leaders to have local The bridge’s railings the By disABBIE SOSSAMON SLEDcity helicopter located him on a power There are moreoriginal items in SouthonCarolina stores thatThe openings are wide pavement.

Granard Street side are not being recovered the bridge’s importance as a local landmark artists paint historical murals around T-bridge in Ledger News Editor line right of way.the Epps was apprehended aren’t exempt from sales tax. Items that are not taxtofree enough see the tracks below. placed due to the historical significance. by officers around 11 a.m. and transbefore GPS systems, noting, “if you can makeabbie@gaffneyledger.com it to the the coming months. include digital cameras, smart phones, jewelry, costo the hospital due to splinters T-bridge, you can get anywhere you want to go.”

Along with preserving ported the community history, Sec- inmetics, wallets, watches and furniture.

A man wanted by the Cherokee feet and hands he received while run“I have heard ever since we moved here, something retary of Transportation his Justin Powell said bridges For a detailed list of tax free items, visit County Sheriff’s Office for nearly a year ning through the woods. needs to be done to that bridge,” Moss said. “So someare important development. dor.sc.gov/taxfreeweekend. was arrested Thursday morn- to support economic“It was a relief to get this susthing has been done and it is more than we imagined.”

“Bridges are symbols of a community,” Powell said. ing after a standoff with police. pect into custody and I applaud The $4.6 million T-bridge project has resultedAt inapproximately a “In our research, the only other examples ofofathe T- deputies 6 a.m., the all the efforts SWAT and andand SLED agents involved in newly paved bridge with sidewalk and railingsheriff’s im- office bridge wesupcould find were in India Japan.” port and teams and officers with thework on the Gaffney getting this wanted provements, replacement of the post and fencing Renovation T-Bridge camefugitive with off South Carolina Law Enforcethe streets,” Mueller said. “The cosmetic work. New girders for support and the pourits own set of challenges due to its unique structure. ment Division (SLED) went to a dedication and resilience of all ing of new decking were added to the bridge project as is ainchallenging project,” said Chris Kovatch, a home off Joy Dale“It Lane Gaffthe officers involved to capture part of needed repairs by the DOT this spring ney followproject engineer with Reeves Construction company. to arrest 19-year-old Jaythis fugitive makes me so proud ing an inspection.

“We normally like to rebuild a structure new sowomen doingwho unta Breshad Epps. of these men and EPPS of Epps re- takes a lot of fine,serve in lawwork, enforcement.”

The state Department of Transportation said After the three hours the rehab work delicate chipfusing to leaveping the home, SWAT to the location of the foot bridge improvements will keep drivers and pedesaway whatTeam is good andDue replacing it to make it pursuit, officers deployed numerous gas caofficers placed nearby Northwest Eletrians safer while providing a way for first responders stronger but without taking away the history.”

Family held hostage at gunpoint

T-bridge opens: History is preserved

Wanted man arrested after standoff, foot pursuit

nisters inside. Epps then jumped from a window and fled into a nearby wooded area, according to Cherokee County Sheriff Steve Mueller. Officers with canines and drones pursued Epps and a

mentary School on lockdown out of an abundance of caution. The school was on lockdown less than 15 minutes before Epps was taken into custody. l See STANDOFF, Page 5

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Renovation work on the T-bridge has been at a standstill for weeks while structural issues are being addressed.

OBITUARIES

PAGE 3

MOSS, Mickey, 74, Blacksburg ZUCKER, Jayla, 20, Gaffney

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.

PAGECOUNTY 3 OBITUARIES PAGE 4 THE GAFFNEY LEDGER — SERVING CHEROKEE SINCE 1894 / VOLUME 131 NO.28

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COMMUNITY SERVICE

ALL WEEKLY DIVISION

FIRST PLACE

Staff The Twin-City News

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2024

VOL. 98, NO. 40 • ONE DOLLAR

Hurricane devastates community Circle chief, firefighter die answering call during storm

BY RALPH SHEALY As she passed through Saluda County early Friday, Sept. 27, Hurricane Helene took more than trees, power lines, and structures. She also took the lives of two dedicated public servants.

Circle Fire Department Chief Chad Satcher, 53, and firefighter Landon Cale Bodie, 18, both of Leesville (Sa-

Funeral services for Chad Satcher will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 5. Services for Landon Cale Bodie will be at 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6. Both services will be held at the Batesburg-Leesville High School Fine Arts Center. For complete obituaries, Page 3 luda County), were answering a call to a house fire on West Creek Road when they were killed when their Navistar fire truck was hit by a tree, felled by the storm’s high winds.

The accident occurred as the men were traveling east on Beulah Road, about four miles west of the town of Batesburg-Leesville at approximately 6:32 a.m.

Saluda County Coroner Keith Turner pronounced the men dead at the scene.

Satcher had 35 years’ experience with the Circle VFD. Bodie was a 2024 graduate of Blythewood High School and had only recently joined the department.

See CIRCLE, Page 4

Satcher

Bodie

Mary Frances Hendrix/The Twin-City News A massive tree is uprooted among the markers in the Bonds-Bates Family Cemetery on Charleston Avenue.

Trees, power down in Helene’s path

BY TONYA RODGERS

Residents of the Batesburg-Leesville, Saluda and neighboring communities will remember Hurricane Helene for a long time. Helene swirled through South Carolina in the early morning hours of Friday, Sept. 27, claiming the lives of three area residents, including two firefighters.

Circle Fire Department Chief Chad Satcher, 53, andLandon Cale Bodie, 18, died when a tree fell on their fire truck as they were responding to a call.

Angie Rita, chief investigator with the Saluda County’s

Tidbits from Saluda.

Columnist Ralph Shealy writes “We found out last week that ‘safe’ can be safe at our eartly home or safe at our Heavenly home.” Page 4 Coroner Office, said Clara Elaine Jackson, 75, of Ridge Spring, also died as a result of the storm.

Batesburg-Leesville Police Chief Darren Amick indicated there were no known hurricane-related fatalities in town.

Hurricane Helene was classified as a category 4 hurriSee HELENE, Page 2

Ralph Shealy/The Twin-City News Tree upon tree litter the grounds at Saluda Park.

The Twin-City News Town of Batesburg-Leesville staffers and volunteers serve lunch to community members at Depot Park.

Neighbors’ care warms hearts, fills stomachs

BY CISSY TERLIZZI Early in the morning of Friday, Sept.

27, the Batesburg-Leesville and Saluda communities were hit by Hurricane Helene, which brought heavy rains and high winds that damaged property and cut off electricity to most homes and businesses, some of whom remain in the dark.

While the destruction from the storm has been extremely difficult for residents, the efforts of many businesses and individuals to help neighbors in a time of dire need has been inspiring.

“I hate seeing all of this devastation, but I love seeing the amount of outreach that I am seeing neighbors giving for each other,” Batesburg-Leesville Mayor Lancer Shull said. “I saw lots of people who had big equipment out there Friday helping to move things out of the way and neighbors offering

freezer space so others wouldn’t lose all of their food.”

On Saturday, the day after the storm, the Town of Batesburg-Leesville opened a charging station and served a sandwich lunch at Depot Park on Wilson Street. The response was so great that the town kept the charging station open and served a hot dog supper, then offered the same assistance Sunday. Another charging station was added at Town Hall early in the week.

On Sunday, Maurice Simpkins, a well-known Batesburg-Leesville High School football star who now resides in Atlanta, and his wife, Laqwacia, loaded a box truck with water, charcoal and nonperishable food items and drove it to Depot Park to distribute to those in need.

“I was overjoyed that we were able See SERVICE, Page 6

Photo courtesy of Steve Cain Maurice Simpkins starts to unload a truck full of nonperishable supplies he and his wife purchased and delivered from Atlanta.

Inspiring story of how a community newspaper rose above extremely difficult circumstances to report on a tragic situation while also honoring brave men who gave their lives in the line of duty.

The Twin-City News 114 E. Columbia Ave.

INSIDE TODAY

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THIRD PLACE (TIE)

THIRD PLACE (TIE) Kailey Cota The Post and Courier

https://www.postandcourier.com/news/zito-gamber-women-killed-morrison-drive-pedestrians/article_c�����e��a��-��ef-b���-���e�c������.html

https://www.postandcourier.com/news/changes-morrison-drive-dot-pedestrian-safety/article_�����c��-����-��efac�a-�ba���d��f��.html

Documents give new details about deadly hit-and-run on Morrison Drive. Here's what we know.

Morrison Drive to get new pedestrian improvements after 2 women killed in April

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Stretch along Morrison Drive where driver killed 2 women ‘desperately needs improvement’

.

3, 2024

An aerial view of Morrison Drive where a driver struck and killed two women walking along a dirt walkway.

A cyclist rides by the memorial site for Lizzy Zito and Arianna Gamber as police block o a lane for Zito’s family to visit the m the road safer for pedestrians a=er the two 43-year-olds were run over by two vehicles while walking alongside Morrison Driv

Pedestrians use a well-worn dirt path to walk from the base of the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge toward the Morrison Yard complex in Charleston along East Bay Street on April 30, 2024.

The two women who were fatally struck by a car on Morrison Drive on April �� lay in

the foliage for nearly seven hours before being found, according to court documents.

Less than three months after two women were run over by vehicles while walking alongside Morrison Drive, the state Department of Transportation and the city of

A young woman with a pink backpack walked north along Morrison Drive until the

Lizzy Zito and Arianna Gamber, both ��, were walking along Morrison Drive, just

Charleston announced plans to make the corridor safer for pedestrians.

sidewalk on her side of the street morphed into the pedestrian and cyclist entrance to

north of the pedestrian entrance to the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge near Grace Bridge Cooper River bridge.

Street, when a gray ���� Acura TL veered o� the right side of the road, drove onto the

David Slade The Post and Courier

COMMUNITY SERVICE

ALL DAILY DIVISION

SECOND PLACE Staff The Times and Democrat

COMMUNITY SERVICE

ALL DAILY DIVISION

FIRST PLACE

Mary Dimitrov, Chloe Appleby and Sebastian Lee The Island Packet

The Island Packet’s committed coverage of issues related to a contract change for the Daufuskie Island Ferry show the power the press has to keep elected officials accountable and get answers for the community.

NEWS REPORTING

DIVISION G

de this Issue

drow Carter inducted Law Enforcement Hall me , Page 2

al programs close out tice for All” civil rights bit, Page 3

ty recognizes outding employees, Page 7

master tournament duces more than 1 on viewers to getown County, Page 8

e than 1,000 kids particin fall sports, Page 10

ndar

“Eyewitness to the nt: Georgetown and the ts Movement,” 6-8 p.m., Auditorium. See page 3.

Screening of “After ,” 6:30 p.m., Howard um. See page 3.

– Dedication and reof Choppee Auditorium, 3 ee page 10.

THIRD PLACE The

Jackie Broach Chronicle Georgetown County

Georgetown County

A monthly e-newsletter produced

by Georgetown County, S.C., for its residents and visitors.

Volume 12, Issue 3

December 2023

SECOND PLACE Todd Deaton The Baptist Courier

Library auditorium named in honor of Cross

T

he auditorium at the Waccamaw Library is now the DeBordieu-Cross Auditorium, named in honor of Jean Cross, a former president of the library’s friends group and co-chair of the fundraising committee for construction of the library.

She passed away in August At left, Jean Cross is pictured during the ribbon cutting for the Waccamaw Library after an illness. in 2015. At right is the new sign over the DeBordieu-Cross Auditorium.

A dedication ceremony ny, which made the donation to sponsor its constructook place at the auditorium on Nov. 21, in conjunction with the opening of a portrait exhibit on display in tion at Cross’ request. “As chair of the fundraising committee, she lost no time in pursuing her friends the auditorium that includes a painting of Cross. The and neighbors and family in DeBordieu to foster their portrait, painted by John Charles, will have a permasupport and bring them on board.” nent home in the library. Cross’ family, including her husband of 57 years, John Harry Cross Jr., were in “In order to change the name of the auditorium, the attendance.

Friends of the Waccamaw Library, the Georgetown “Jean Cross can take lead credit for this room, for County Library Board, the DeBordieu donors as reprethe solicitation of the original DeBordieu donors – and sented by their HOA board, and the Georgetown Counreally for this entire new library,” said Linda Ketron, ty Council all had to vote in favor,” Ketron added. the main speaker at the dedication ceremony. The “There was not one holdout. All recognized the huge library was initially named in honor of DeBordieu ColoSee “Auditorium,” Page 9

‘Journey to Freedom’ sculptor to make piece for library HQ

Photos by SCBaptist Creative Team.

SCBaptists Serving in Helene’s Aftermath; Many More Disaster Relief Volunteers Needed

by TODD DEATON, Chief Operating Officer HURRICANE HELENE CAUSED months of work to do. “This may be of SCBaptist Disaster Relief, told widespread damage, stretching more the biggest disaster, at least in terms The Baptist Courier Oct. 15. A DR than 600 miles from where the storm of wind damage, that our state has site in Spartanburg, she said, was made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend ever known,” he said. being shifted to mass feeding in region as a Category 4 storm on Sept.

“Hurricane Helene has North Carolina to provide meals and 26 into North Carolina and Tennessee. supplies for the affected area devastated our state from coast to Helene also left a trail of around Lake Lure and Chimney Rock. coast,” he said. “The hurricane-force destruction in South Carolina — Driving around the state in wind damage in the Upstate is from Aiken to Greenwood and the days following the storm, Tony matched by 18 confirmed tornadoes Newberry to Anderson, Greenville Wolfe, executive director-treasurer stretching all the way to the coastline. and Spartanburg — across much for the South Carolina Baptist From Fort Mill to Hilton Head and of the western half of the state.

Convention, said he saw months and Long Creek to North Myrtle Beach, More than a million homes and South Carolinians are in for a businesses were without power very long recovery effort.” for days, some even weeks.

Wolfe urged more South Since morning on Sept.

Carolina Baptists to become MEALS PREPARED 27, SCBaptist Disaster Relief involved by giving generously to chainsaw and feeding crews have disaster relief and volunteering.

VOLUNTEER DAYS been serving our neighbors and “The need for active, physical sharing the gospel. They have labor across our state will not been cutting trees off of the roofs subside for many months,” he MINISTRY CONTACTS of houses, feeding storm victims said, “and who better to serve our and linemen, cleaning laundry, neighbors as the hands and feet clearing roadways, providing of Jesus than SCBaptists?

RECOVERY JOBS hot showers, delivering gas and “SCBaptists are a generous working tools, and praying with people, and I am confident they GOSPEL PRESENTATIONS hurting people. will rise to this opportunity “Most teams now are focused to help our state recover from on recovery and chainsaw the desolation that Helene has PROFESSIONS OF FAITH October 15, 2024 SCDR. work,” Susan Peugh, director brought,” he said. t

34,221 4,727 3,244 804 203 12

20 THE BAPTIST COURIER • NOVEMBER 2024

NEWS REPORTING

DIVISION G

FIRST PLACE

Hollie Moore Charleston Regional Business Journal

This piece took a common problem – exploding population – and looked at how it would affect not only newcomers, but also longtime residents.

NEWS FEATURE WRITING ISSUE 48 • 2 SEC TIONS, 14 PAGES

W E D N E S D A Y, N O v E M B E R 2 9 , 2 0 2 3 • $ 1

ity Town Hall-type meeting rovesDIVISION F ited explores development issues blic king

BY BRIAN GARNER

S JENKINS

NECHESTER.COM

or t to draw to downtown City will now g in public on basis.

City Council ay night to ond reading nce to create ment district” lts would be enly consume or Carlos Wiled that many dy allow the e parameters fies as being entertainment ld be limited ea and would ct at all times. instituted to h par ticular the annual stival or the Hill BBQ festiple.

Citizens were speaking up and giving their views at a recent Town Hall type meeting on pending rezoning changes in Chester County, and county officials were listening.

Chester County Councilman Corey Guy organized the Town Hall and invited Council At-Large member Erin Mosley and County Administrator Brian Hester to attend. Also in attendance were Planning and Zoning Director Mike Levister and Economic Development

Brian Garner The News & Reporter PHOTO BY BRIAN GARNER/THE N&R

Chester County Councilman Corey Guy, at left, engages with a constituent who has questions regarding a rezoning change in his community. Guy and Councilmember Erin Mosley held the town hall meeting because during the normal business of a council meeting, citizens don’t often have a chance beyond their three minute comment period, to ask questions and get information on zoning changes council will vote on.

unresolved

R STAFF

to the issues

SEE ISSUES/PAGE A4

The tale of 5 rings Story of engagement of local couple goes viral on national media

W

PAGE A3

y of ster s with HEC pools

Director Robert Long.

The topics for this town hall meeting had to do with a couple of requests for rezoning of properties that were originally designated for residential development.

Prior to this town hall meeting, there had been some correspondence with Guy, Mosley and the other members of county council.

Rodman resident Dr. Nan Saye sent a letter to each of the county councilmembers expressing her concer ns

THIRD PLACE BGARNER@ONLINECHESTER.COM

The family shows off the engagement rings that Josh Renaud presented to each of them when he proposed to their mom and each of them.

BY N&R STAFF

e’ve all heard the line in “The Twelve Days of Christmas” about the five golden rings, but that phrase will have a special meaning for a Chester County family from now on.

There are power couples and then there are power couples. Josh Renaud and Brittany Hunter are one of these, after having the story of their engagement appear in People Magazine and the videos of the engagement proposal plot and the carrying out of said plot (with the help of Brittany’s four children) garnering over 6.4 million views on TikTok. SEE RINGS/PAGE A2

SECOND PLACE Matt Bise The Berkeley Independent

From the Great Falls Police Department:

NEWS FEATURE WRITING

DIVISION F

• Be-Aoni Copeland, 22, was charged with open container of beer

or wine in a motor vehicle; reckless driving; and driving under suspension first for a fixed period on Nov. 7.

GREAT FALLS CHURCH NEWS GREAT FALLS CHURCH OF GOD

FIRST PLACE

Brian Garner The News & Reporter

study from 6 to 7 p.m. For more information on Zoom and/or the conference Great Falls Church of line, call Minister Terone God, 34 Underwood Ave., Manning at 803-209-1858. will hold a hot dog/bake Social distance and wear sale at 9 a.m. Friday, Nov. 8, masks. Church is at 1894 at the church’s Fellowship Canal Road, Landsford. The Building. Proceeds will pastor is the Rev. Deshanna benefit the Great Falls Glenn.

Church of God Ladies Faith Temple holds a Ministry. For details, call Focus Prayer led by the Rev. 803-385-8389.

Deshanna Glenn from 6 to TRINITY BAPTIST 7 p.m. on the third Friday Trinity Baptist Church, of each month. All are 112 Chester Ave., Great welcome. The prayer is also Falls, holds Sunday school shown on the Faith Temple at 9:45 a.m. and worship Facebook page or on at 11 a.m. Kids For Christ Zoom. Call Minister Terone meets at 5 p.m. with bus Manning at 803-209-1858 pick-up available for these for help with Zoom. meetings. Call 803-482Faith Temple holds a 2940 and leave a message.

Men’s Fellowship meeting at Wednesday night worship is 9 a.m. on the fourth Saturday held at 6 p.m. of each month. Chairperson is the Rev. Terone Manning FAITH TEMPLE and Co-Chair is Deacon Faith Temple holds Travis Glenn. Call Rev. services at the church.

Manning at 803-209-1858 Sunday school at 10 a.m. for more information. followed by worship at SEE NEWS/PAGE A13 11 a.m. Tuesday night Bible

GREAT FALLS NEWS BRIEFS GRASP CRISIS RELIEF CENTER

If you or someone you know is struggling to pay bills or purchase food, please call us at 803-4824407. GRASP may be able to help with your utility bill, some prescriptions and/ or food from our pantry.

GRASP is located at 802 Dearborn St. in Great Falls.

Hours of operation are Monday through Thursday from 1-4:30 p.m.

GRASP THRIFT SHOP

The GRASP Thrift Shop is located at 601 Dearborn St., Great Falls. Everyone is invited to stop by and check out the gently-used items that have been donated.

The shop has great deals on clothing, household items, furniture and more. Store hours will be Thursdays and Fridays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Donations will be taken on Thursdays from 12-5 p.m.

com and find out about the many rewarding opportunities available by volunteering with Agape Hospice.

LIONS CLUB SELLING BROOMS

The Great Falls Lions Club is selling brooms. Brooms are $10 and $12. Children’s mops are $5 and a child’s broom is $7. Both items are available at Spratt Savings & Loan in Great Falls and Great Falls Tax Service.

FAIRFIELD FIRE NEEDS VOLUNTEERS

The Fairfield County Volunteer Fire Service needs firefighters, drive/operators, on scene support, administration and fire prevention. Volunteers must be at least 16-years-old. You don’t have to fight fire to help! For more information, call 803-712-1070.

PHOTOS BY BRIAN GARNER/THE N&R

Childhood classmates James Bowden and Robert Barber recreate their 3-mile walk to Elizabeth Heights High School. The two have been friends since before the first grade.

MEMORY WALK

2 classmates recreate their 3-mile walk to school, 59 years later

I

BY BRIAN GARNER

BGARNER@ONLINECHESTER.COM

n 2022, Great Falls natives Robert Barber and James Bowden recreated the walk they used to take from home, in the Georgetown Community, to the old Elizabeth Heights High School, which was at the time, 57 years ago. Because of conflicting schedules, they missed doing the walk in 2023. In 2024, they made the walk again, and they took a lot of memories with them as they walked down that memor y lane.

The memory walk started when Barber and Bowden talked a couple of years ago at a South Carolina State basketball game about making the walk again, and a year later, their schedules finally meshed so they could do it, Barber said in an interview from 2022.

“I started thinking about the many days we walked that trip to practice, and I thought it would be nice to re-do it and revisit those memories,” Barber said. When he advanced the idea to Bowden, he said ‘name the time.’

Barber lives in Rock Hill and Bowden is from Fort Mill, and they have long since moved away from Great Falls, but they still remember the route they walked.

The N&R was invited to follow in their footsteps in 2022 and again in 2024. Before the three-mile journey, Robert and James sat down with The N&R to reflect on what the walk meant to them and why they vow to continue to recreate it.

James Bowden arrived at his old homeplace first and he reflected that both he and Barber, lifelong friends, would stay after school for sports practice and other extracurricular activities, like band and chorus, which both men participated in. And all of those activities were after school. Sometimes they

Two lifelong friends and classmates James Bowden and Robert Barber played sports together, were in the band together and both took part in the chorus. The friends played together before they even started school together. could get a ride with someone heading the same way as their practice, but no one was waiting around after that to take them back home.

The two would take the school bus in to school in the morning, but because the bus would not take them to basketball practice or wait to take them home after practice, they would walk home after practicing after school during the week. Sometimes, they rode the bus home, because the girls basketball team practiced right after school, and the boys had to wait until they were done to get their own practice in. That means that Barber and Bowden would have to walk back to school for the practice, and then walk home afterwards.

“Sometimes practice would be as late as nine o’clock; and there was nobody coming this way. We’d start walking back at nine and walk all the way back from Elizabeth Heights to our homes,” Bowden said.

Bowden said they actually started walking together when they made the varsity basketball team in the 7th grade.

“Imagine a mother today allowing their children to go to practice, have no idea who they are riding with, no idea how they’re getting back and not even thinking about it, they just knew the time we would be walking in the door,” Bowden

GREAT FALLS UP-TO-THE-MINUTE NEWS BRIEFS What a nice story! How many kids have had to do something like that?!

AGAPE HOSPICE NEEDS VOLUNTEERS

CHILDREN’S SEWING CLASS

Evangelist Deborah Nelson Moore will hold a beginner’s arts and crafts

COMMUNITY LISTENING SESSION

MUSC Health Chester Medical Center and the Chester Community

is invited to come and add their voices to the direction of healthcare in Chester County.

GREAT FALLS

said.

Bowden makes the walk and will continue to make the walk, because he understands the importance of the history of Elizabeth Heights High School.

“There are a couple of reasons for me why I do this: Bob (Barber) spearheaded the thing. We have been classmates since the first grade all the way through school. We both know all the effort that it took to get Elizabeth Heights School built. My grandfather, John Bowden, was on the board and he was chairman of the board when they first built the school, so he had a lot with getting the school built…Elizabeth Heights was very important to the black community, to have their first real school. When integration came, they had something that was called “Freedom of Choice,” which meant in the South, they were not totally going to combine the schools.”

With the advent of integration, so-called “equalization schools” provided separate but equal facilities.

“There were black families with a plan during Freedom of Choice, that were going to make sure a segment of the population that went to the so-called “white school” were good students that would do well…the NAACP had something to do with picking SEE WALK/PAGE A13

Town of Great Falls. The Great Falls Christmas Parade is the first start to the holiday season for Chester County!

NEWS FEATURE WRITING

DIVISION E

THIRD PLACE Mandy Catoe The Lancaster News

SECOND PLACE Casey Jones Myrtle Beach Herald

WEDNESDAY, JULY

SOUTH CAROLINA’S

10, 2024

NEWS FEATURE WRITING

PREMIER WEEKLY

GREER, SOUT

Holzheimer na Firefighter Hall

DIVISION E

BY MACY COCHRA N EDITOR

FIRST PLACE

Trey Stewart The Greer Citizen

Joshua Holzh gan his career eimer beservice 1998 in the fire as a volunteer with the Landrum Fire Department.

No Deputy Fire Ch w, he’s the Fire Departm ief at Greer ent and was just named to the South Carolina Sta te Firefighter Hall of Fame.

The Florida sides in Lym native rean with his wife and five daughters.

Joshua Holzheim Until 2004, Holzheimer er worked as a paramedic with Spartan and masters burg EMS an degree an d graduate Greenville Co d from the Sou unty EMS bet fore joining the fire ser- Carolina State Firefighter vice full-time with Greer in Associations Leadersh i 2005.

Institute in 20 13. In 2021 he graduated Holzheimer from Nation holds an associates, al Fire Acad emy’s Execu bachelors, tive Fire Offic er Program.

Jack Septon sta PHOTO | SUBMITTED hit a home run atres through the fence at historic Vic Victor Field back in May during histor Field. Jack was the final pla yer to t-ball game.

THE LAST HOME RUN

Ivey’s 13th An nu Drive taking d on

BY MACY COCHRA N EDITOR

Ivey’s Annual is back this Jul Food Drive y, returning for the 13th yea and put on by r in a row 13 -year-old Ivey Tapp, wh ose desire is to make a po sit on the local comive impact feeding those munity by in year on her bir need each thday.

Over a decad e Ivey’s parents ago, when got married,

BY TRE Y STEWART the two asked SPORTS EDITOR goods instea for canned d of wedfirst. Secon ding gifts, an d by an d once Ivey th d is third Jack Septon, base cowere like many d, no match entered the picture, the kids his age fie for ld cou little Jack’s 10 thousand ple asked for , finds it im canned possible to sit tion and chu determina- goods once still. rni times in my life.

Everywhere slammed his ng legs. He ebrate the more to celhe looks is ir baby’s bir feet on home It’ s an opportunit thplate with a sm day. y ile. Parents, ery step he tak for fun. Ev- always be teammates, But the tra en here. es an ant leap closer is one gicheered and d coaches ried strongly dition carto con his thr gra next And ough the tulatbig adventur ed Jack on a I imagined it e. moment he’ll years, and now, Ivey Jack is but 4 is never forget. well-known by the com the realities years old— always wo mu He ’d nit y’s jus of the cruel, t ul nonprofits hit the last d be ever-changing for ho he me r annual can run of the gam ned food e. far eclipse his world still here.’ drive, which The last home 3-and-a-half rai run of the foot stature. season. sands of dolla ses thours He’s sitting and thousand each year The last home on the s of pounds run Victor bleachers of Fie wo ld Ro rth wo bb uld ever see. of food to ie Septon what is, for now at least, feed those in ne As part of Victor Field ed at Greer in downtown lion dollar de multi-mil- Community Gr velopmental Ministries. taps his tin eer. Jack for the eag pla ns approved Currently, tho er Jack to sla y baseball by the City se wishing m of Greer cleats and tur through it wit to donate , Victor Field ns his head h will can fin to the food drive every which iature might. all his min- soon come way—scopin d donation do wn .

A g ne boxes out his next w around baseball field In that gam thrill.

Greer in many Jack’s t-ball e between place at Tu will take its cal busin Just a few lo- Ivey, a local teena esses and org weeks ago, ger, is taking bo rner Park in team (The his biggest thr ani- donations for Dodgers) an th zations. the ill was a big d the Cubs, downtown Greer. Baseba white baseba ll Jac Community Minis 13th year in a row to at k Vic “M rip tor an pe y ll Field, after mo d people have tries as they feed cisely upon a placed pre- off that tee a scorcher than 100 supre ported tho years of memo tee, begging Ivey year and into the after Ivey’s outfield. He - year!” sai food drive gro sped around ries, will be no more. d Stacy Ta w year are pp, Ivey’s mom. kin SEE VIC TOR | B2 “It has been after year. Our Greer com a true blessi - and mo mu nit y is a special ng watching one–– one full of citizens who toward o

Unyielding wav e of change washes over his toric Victor Fie ld ‘I’ve driven

C

Wow, wow, wow! Amazing storytelling. The history and significance of this legendary field is here,Toroupenmbl Cookies is coming to this summer yet we see so much through the eyes of a 4-year-old and his dad. Beautifully descriptive word pictures painted.

world to over,” they Citizen.

BY MACY COCHRA N EDITOR

Crumbl Cook

ies is

HOW IT BEG Two

co

NEWS FEATURE WRITING

DIVISION D

THIRD PLACE (TIE) Josh Archote The Post and Courier Columbia/ Free Times

THIRD PLACE (TIE) Elizabeth Hustad The Post and Courier North Augusta/The Star

NEWS FEATURE WRITING

DIVISION D

SECOND PLACE (TIE) Janet Morgan The Post and Courier Myrtle Beach/Georgetown Times

SECOND PLACE (TIE) Bianca Moorman The Post and Courier North Augusta/The Star

NEWS FEATURE WRITING

DIVISION D

FIRST PLACE

Janet Morgan The Post and Courier Myrtle Beach/Georgetown Times Sad, poignant story that flowed emotion throughout. It felt like you were standing with the shrimpers waiting for the end.

NEWS FEATURE WRITING

DIVISION C

THIRD PLACE

Martha Rose Brown The Times and Democrat

SECOND PLACE Robert Jordan Index-Journal

NEWS FEATURE WRITING

DIVISION C

FIRST PLACE

Alaysha Maple The Sumter Item

Sumterites’ November ballot to be finalized after June 25 runoffs

BY BRYN EDDY bryn@theitem.com With the June 11 primaries now complete with runoffs set for Tuesday, June 25, Sumterites will soon know exactly what names will be on the November ballot.

In addition, residents now know of some longtime state and local officials who have decided not to run for additional terms.

Three-term South Carolina Democratic Sen. J. Thomas McElveen III will not seek reelection to his District 35 seat

and gave his farewell address to the Senate on June 5.

None of the candidates running for his seat got 50% of the votes cast on June 11, so both Republican and Democratic candidates will be in the June 25 runoff to decide which two names will be on the November ballot.

Here are the June 11 results for the District 35 race as shown on scvotes.gov: Democrat Austin B. Floyd Jr.: 37.76%, 1,941 votes — runoff Democrat Jeffrey R. Graham: 46.99%, 2,416 votes —

runoff Democrat Lucy Mahon: 15.25%, 784 votes Republican Lindsay Agostini: 30.36%, 1,189 votes — runoff Republican Christina Allard: 16.6%, 650 votes Republican Jerry Chivers: 3.52%, 138 votes Republican Mike Jones: 49.51, 1,939 votes — runoff “There’s still a lot of gas in my tank, and there’s plenty of fight in this dog,” McElveen said during his

SUMTER ITEM FILE PHOTO

Sen. Thomas McElveen, D-Sumter, speaks on Feb. 2, 2020, during the SEE SEATS, PAGE A13 Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce’s annual retreat at Myrtle Beach.

‘A name that flies’ George Stinney Jr.’s family, South Carolinians gather to commemorate his life and legacy 80 years later

BY ALAYSHA MAPLE alaysha@theitem.com To be a father means to leave a legacy. It means to pass on more than just genetics, but to instill wisdom, values and love. To be a guiding light, a protector, a source of strength and support. To shape the life of his children through demonstrations of resilience and displays of morals. His influence will extend beyond that of his immediate family, touching the community and, sometimes, the world.

And worldwide, people have come to know the name George Stinney Jr. For though he was not a father, he left behind a legacy that inspired young men and women in his hometown to fight for what’s right and what’s free — that includes his freedom.

Those same young men and women, now older and inspiring a new generation of activists, came together to commemorate the life and legacy of Stinney Jr. at Clarendon County Courthouse on Father’s Day, June 16 — 80 years after Stinney Jr.’s death.

SEE STINNEY JR., PAGE A13

PHOTOS BY MICAH GREEN / THE SUMTER ITEM

Community and family members attend a life commemoration for George Stinney Jr. at Trinity AME Church in Manning on the 80th anniversary of his death on Sunday, June 16. Stinney Jr. was executed on June 16, 1944, for the murder of two white girls after a short trial and verdict by an all-white jury. His conviction was vacated during a retrial in 2014.

‘His life was not in vain because we are here 80 years later calling on the name of George Stinney Jr., and his memory will never die.

We will use his death to inspire and encourage.’

THE REV. FRANKLIN COLCLOUGH Featured speaker at life commemoration for George Stinney Jr., Trinity AME Church A family member of George Stinney Jr. sits with a program during a commemoration of his life at Clarendon County Courthouse on Sunday, June 16.

Powerful and beautifully written, this story about injustice and inspiration was my favorite.

NEWS FEATURE WRITING

DIVISION B

THIRD PLACE

Sarah Haselhorst (1993-2024) The Island Packet

SECOND PLACE Win Hammond WAiken Standard LIVING ON THE GO

PREP FOOTBALL

FIGHTER PLANES WITH FEATHERS: SWALLOW-TAILED KITES PUT ON AIR SHOW IN JACKSON, C1

CHECK OUT A PREVIEW OF THE 2024 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL SEASON, INSIDE

WEEKEND

AIKEN COUNTY, SOUTH CAROLINA’S TRUSTED LOCAL SOURCE FOR NEWS AND INFORMATION SINCE 1867

$2.50

EDITION

SATURDAY/SUNDAY August 17 & 18, 2024

AIK ENS TANDARD.COM

Family of Wagener teacher killed by pole settles lawsuit

Hope dealers

Vol. 158, No. 230 || AIKEN, S.C.

BY BIANCA MOORMAN bmoorman@aikenstandard.com The family of a Wagener-Salley High School teacher who was killed by a defective utility pole in August 2023 has settled a lawsuit for $30 million.

The family of 31-year-old Jeunelle Robinson settled its lawsuit Robinson against Dominion Energy and Comporium, according to the family’s attorney, Justin Bamberg of Bamberg Legal LLC in a media release.

The case was settled in the Second Judicial Circuit Court of Common Pleas in Aiken County on Aug. 15.

Robinson, who was a social studies teacher at the high school, was killed after a truck clipped a leaning utility pole while she was walking down Main Street in Wagener on Aug. 23, 2023.

The pole that killed Robinson was one of many poles in the town that were over 60 years old. She died due to blunt force trauma.

Dominion Energy spokesperson R honda Maree O’Banion said in an email that “Dominion Energy again extends our deepest condolences to the family of Jeunelle Robinson, and we are pleased to help bring resolution to this case.”

The family filed a wrongful death lawsuit on March 11 seeking $130 million , which includes investments to power utility infrastructure in the towns of Wagener and Salley, a scholarship in Robinson’s name for any Aiken County students who want to become a teacher or go into the field of education, and for the family’s loss, pain and suffering.

Bamberg said the family opted to settle with the companies as the one-year anniversary of their daughter’s death approached in an effort to honor her memory and finally have closure.

“Although nothing can bring Jeunelle back to her family, we are pleased to have reached this resolution with the parties involved,” said Bamberg. “We appreciate the leadership of Dominion and Comporium for working with us to ensure Jeunelle’s family would not have to relive this tragedy in court unnecessarily. We are focused on protecting rural areas that are often overlooked by utility and power companies around the country, and we hope that this tragic situation will result in greater attention being focused on repairing and maintaining poles in America’s rural areas.”

Robinson’s family is partner-

WIN HAMMOND/STAFF

Clockwise from left: Leah Jones was in and out of jail for 18 years. Now, she “goes to jail on purpose,” helping many detainees through their recovery journey. Counselor Nicolette Ramirez and Peer Support Leader Tina Lewandowski stand in front of the Aiken County detention center. Ramirez gives addicted detainees coping skills, and Lewandowski gives them her story. Daniel Grant overdosed on fentanyl in 2020 after more than 20 years as an opioid addict. Now, he sponsors other people in recovery and studies to become an addiction counselor. The tattoo Leah Jones got to honor her friend Richard Grogg, who jumpstarted her recovery.

Grogg died from a fentanyl overdose in 2023.

Aiken’s recovery community helps each other through addiction journey

BY WIN HAMMOND whammond@aikenstandard.com Daniel Grant, 46, overdosed on fentanyl in 2020.

He passed out just before heading into work.

His boss found him with the straw he used to snort what he thought was pure oxycodone still in his hand 45 minutes after snorting the pill.

Paramedics gave him an IV of naloxone — an overdose reversal agent — twice, but it didn’t keep his heart from stopping three times.

They gave him another dose.

“I could just hear, I couldn’t move, I couldn’t see, I don’t remember smelling anything, I tried to speak and I couldn’t, and my arm — where I had the IV — was on fire,” Grant said. “Things start coming clear, then I blink my eyes and I’m seeing fuzzy stuff.”

An employee in goggles, blue scrubs and a mask stopped pumping Grant’s chest as he came back to life.

“I’m waking up to this alien staring back,” Grant said.

“All I heard her say was ‘Oh, there you are. Glad you’re back.’”

Grant is one man in recovery among hu n d r e d s i n Aiken County diagnosed with opioid addiction.

He’s a lso one of the lucky ones as one person dies from a drug overdose in Aiken County every week, and almost two on average in 2023.

More than 251 people have died from a drug overdose every day nationally since 2020.

Aiken County was similarly hit hard with overdose deaths.

Margaret Key, director of the Aiken Center, calls it the “pandemic within the pandemic” — when overdose deaths in Aiken County jumped more than 130% f rom 2 019 to 2020.

Aiken saw a record number of overdose deaths in 2023 at 100, almost t wo overdo s e deaths a week.

Toxicology reports found more than 83 of those deaths involved fentanyl.

Fentanyl is still present with almost 89% of the 27 overdose deaths in 2024.

Please see HOPE, page A5

How to donate This article was funded by the Aiken Standard’s Public Service and Investigative Journalism Fund.

It was established in 2021 and the newspaper has worked with the Post and Courier in Charleston, the flagship newspaper of parent organization Evening Post Publishing Group, on previous investigative articles.

To learn more about the Public Service and Investigative Journalism Fund or make a tax-deductible donation, visit aikenstandard. com/pledge.

Changes could be coming to historic Black church

BY MATTHEW CHRISTIAN mchristian@aikenstandard.com A historic Black church in Aiken

three buildings: the sanctuary, an administrative office building and the N.L. Bush Activity Building.

Church members built the sanc-

NEWS FEATURE WRITING

DIVISION B

FIRST PLACE

Karl Puckett The Island Packet

A lot of great features in this category, but this one stood out and had me hooked on every word.

NEWS FEATURE WRITING

DIVISION A

THIRD PLACE Eva Herscowitz & Jocelyn Grzeszczak The Post and Courier

SECOND PLACE John Ramsey The Post and Courier

NEWS FEATURE WRITING

DIVISION A

FIRST PLACE

Christian Boschult The Post and Courier

Christian Boschult’s story about Richard Moore offered a nuanced look at who Moore is as a person and why his case stands out from others.

It helped me, as a reader, think harder about who has been sentenced to death row.

FEATURE WRITING

DIVISION G

THIRD PLACE Jennifer Weaver

SECOND PLACE Aida Rogers

FEATURE WRITING

DIVISION G

FIRST PLACE

Jackie Broach Georgetown County

There were several very good entries in this category, but the three winners stood out because they created a connection with me. I would very much like to meet Gary, Trish and Ranina – the three people profiled in these stories. In feature writing a trust is bestowed to journalists. This writer honored that trust and wrote a story with respect and integrity. Reading the story, I felt as though the subject was a friend just down the road.

LIFESTYLE FEATURE WRITING

DIVISION F

THIRD PLACE Thomas Hyslip Tega Cay Sun

SECOND PLACE Matt Bise The Berkeley Independent

LIFESTYLE FEATURE WRITING

DIVISION F

FIRST PLACE

Patrick Byrne Tega Cay Sun

I found this to be very touching. The awareness of pool safety was important.

LIFESTYLE FEATURE WRITING

DIVISION E

THIRD PLACE Tom O’Dare Myrtle Beach Herald

SECOND PLACE 8

Chris Sokoloski Coastal Observer

COASTAL OBSERVER

Thursday, May 9, 2024

MOTHERS DAY

Moms celebrate their children’s independence

By Chris Sokoloski COASTAL OBSERVER

Mother’s Day is always special, but for some local moms, this year is the first time one of their children is living on their own.

“We waited our entire lives for this. Never ever thought it could happen,” said Hali Goldfine of Pawleys Island, whose daughter, Melissa, 23, recently moved into Oak Tree Farm in Conway. “And then all of sudden it was like, not only could it happen, it happened and we’re here.”

The development is a project of SOS Care, a Murrells Inlet-based nonprofit serving children and adults with autism and intellectual disabilities. All 61 residents have a disability, but not severe enough that it prevents them from living independently.

“I’m very excited,” said Melissa Goldfine, who is most looking forward to doing things like “any independent adult.”

Emmy Fischer, 24, recently moved from North Myrtle Beach to Oak Tree Farm. She is “excited and nervous” to live on her own for the first time.

“It’s anxious and elation that they’re going to be on their own. It’s anxiety because you’ve been there for everything,” said Julie Fischer, Emmy’s mom. “I don’t know what I’m going to do with myself. I think it’s going to be an adjustment, more for me than for her.”

Photos by Chris Sokoloski/Coastal Observer

Hali Goldfine, above left, with her daughter Melissa. At right, Karen Cummings with her son Dan Lucas.

SOS started talking about Oak Tree Farm in 2016 and bought the 10acre property near Conway High School in 2017.

The first residents moved into a transition house in February of 2021.

In the last few years apartment buildings have been added. Each building has two one-bedroom, eight two-bedroom and two three-bedroom apartments. Bedrooms are 175 square feet each and include a sink. Each bedroom also has a private

bathroom attached.

Rent averages about $500 a month, which includes electricity, water and trash collection.

Many residents qualify for a housing authority

voucher from the federal government which covers 70 percent of the rent.

Jake Locklair, 25, moved to Oak Tree Farm from Charleston. He is a graduate of the Carolina-

LIFE program at the University of South Carolina.

The fact that he was living on his own for three years at college made Christy Settle, Locklair’s mom, feel better about him moving into Oak Tree Farm.

“It wasn’t quite as hard on us,” Settle said. “We want him to be happy and if this is what he wants and he’s happy here, which he says he’s very happy here, then we’re all for it.”

One of her biggest concerns is making sure Locklair eats properly and includes fruits and vegetables in his diet. She plans to start a food delivery service for him.

“We’ve been waiting on this basically since 2017. It feels like we have finally reached that milestone,” Settle said. “We have finally been able to say he’s living on his own now. It feels really good.”

Dan Lucas, 43, lived with two roommates in a condo for about 18 months before moving to Oak Tree Farm. He and his roommate, who is 50, are two of the oldest residents.

“It’s been a lot of fun,” Lucas said. “I’m proud that I got to do this.”

“He’s having a good time here,” said Karen Cummings, Lucas’ mom.

“To have the opportunity for him to be supported and independent is so important.”

Before moving to Oak Tree Farm, potential residents had to complete

an eight-week course on living on their own and prove that they could take care of themselves.

Those classes were helpful in pairing up roommates, Cummings said.

“They all know each other,” she added. “They all know their strengths and weaknesses and they compliment each other really well.”

Goldfine said Melissa was a little “weepy” after she moved in and mom and dad left the first time, but after a few visits to drop off additional household items, the parting was a lot smoother.

“They can stay in touch,” Melissa said.

Oak Tree Farm residents are responsible for preparing meals, doing laundry, going grocery shopping and remembering to take any medications.

Cummings praised SOS Care for teaching Lucas how to complete household chores like cooking and changing the batteries in a smoke detector.

“I taught him how to clean clothes and I taught him how to wash dishes.

But to teach him above and beyond that, the responsibilities of having your own place, they do that really well,” she said.

“They’ve really helped him confidence-wise to feel like ‘I can do this on my own and I’m OK with it.’”

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 19, 2024

LIFESTYLE FEATURE WRITING

DIVISION E

Living Here

Through the ages ‘I think it’s pretty perfect.’

M.M. COCHRAN

Nothing can stop us

knocked on the door of this married couple who’d been together for 69 years, ready to ask my list of questions, ready to get elbow-deep into this interview, ready to write a love story for The Greer MACY COCHRAN | THE GREER CITIZEN Citizen readers.

Always smiling and makin g jokes when they’re togeth I hadn’t really expect special lifestyle. It’s the little er, the Taylors have a sweet ed to walk away thinkin meals together, saying ‘I love things, they say, that mean so much—like cookin and g, “That’ll be us.”

Houston Taylor other in bed every mornin you’ several times throughout the day, and reachin g their g for a kiss to start the day. g to each What my story (titled “Through the Ages”) doesn’t show is that when the wife came to the door to let me in, I smiled and thought, “What a pretty lady.” Then, as we waited for her husband to join the conversation inside, I admired this woman ’s youthful cheer and joy she seemed to encom pass. I thought, “I can see

BY MACY COCHRAN why he loves her.”

Jean were on the road, EDITOR And then her husban as he worked installing d came along, smiling, phone systems. Movin oomfortable. Happy. g joking , and if the couple around a lot might not Sweet.” had been sitting closer sound ideal to some, but That’s how Jean together, I was sure they’d to these two newlyweds, Taylor describes her have been nudging each martraveling gave them the riage to her husband other and giggling over of life experience and bond69 years, Houston. inside jokes and recalle ing time that would carry d “I thank God,” Housmemories for my entire them for the rest of their ton said, claiming those visit. I loved it. They lives. were words as the three he like teenagers in love.

“We’ve been all would use to describe over the Ah, the big secret to place in our marriage,” a his life alongside his life-long marriage. It best Jean said, listing off was friend. a question that a lot several cities and states of On June 12, the Taylor people wanted me to s before Houston finishe ask couple celebrated their d as I went into this big the list with internationa 69th wedding annive l interview, but is it really rsary countries. and answered the questhat secretive? Sorry to Washington, Oregon, tion that everyone begs burst any bubbles for to Texas, California, Arizon my know: What’s the secret? a, reader s, but I went into Kansas. Africa, Ireland As Jean and Houston , that huge story to the New Guinea, Mexico. left take a trip down memo The of this colum n already list goes on. ry lane––recalling their knowing the “big secret “From the day I marrie travels around the world d to a life-long marriage”–– her,” Houston began, and living for 13 years “I which the husband conin got up the next day to Mexico––the answer to firmed for me: go to work, and I almost that big question becam God. e couldn ’t stand not taking clear to them.

Some of you might not her with me.”

Rewind 69 years, and be religious. Some of you So Jean joined work the story starts in Arkan might be Jesus-followe alongs rs. ide her new hussas.

MACY COCHRAN | THE GREER CITIZEN But no matter who you band, packing the car and are, if you’re loving each Houston said that marrying driving from one At first glance Jean only two months after state other like Jesus loves laid on his heart. Jean agreed they to another, wherever and met was somet hing God you’re serving with the seemed to be a running theme that the two were meant to dive in headfirst—an pleaselectric job took them– “We were in Little Rock, – ing Him in mind, the even overseas later in blips these two were hand-in-hand throughout their lives. From Arkansas to Africa to d that in in Arkansas,” said Jean, life. the road are easier to Mexico, the entire time.

But it was during their “and I knew his first overcome. The big things cous- domestic travels in, so we met because from seem smaller. The love of Little Rock to Magnolia his first cousin.” seems Thr more intense. In ough the ages first job took that they became parent “I thought she was s. fact, it will last throug them to one riages, this one has stood Houston’s job transfe h of the largest orphan pretty cute,” Houston rred the ages.

Once their two childre age the test of time. So what him last minute to Magn organizations (Found recalled of the time he When my interview with were graduated and on ation is the answer nolia, and upon arrival to the big For His Ministry). encountered his, then, to the their couple own, was over, I Houston’s job question? The secret their new and tempo “It just happened all future wife. to a rary was took please him the d to and hear long-lasting marriage?

Jean to Con- sudde home, Jean gave birth that Jean was 18, and Housn,” he said. to this married couple of go for five months. It “Always put God first their first son.

69 was ton was 22 when they years had the same anwhen they returned from and yourselves second Becoming parents came Growing old started dating that spring ,” swer to that big questi Africa in the mid-90s Houston said. “Put God easily to Jean and Houson and together of 1955. that I did. Mind you, met their son in Florida first. ton, I’m That’s thanks the key.” to their com“That was in April,” not married (check back that their life took a Jean patibil couldn turn ity, ’t agree once again.

Growing old together Houston said. “Then, next year!), but I know they never saw comin is in more.

“We’ve always worke a g. a feat that few are given June, we got married.” d thing or two about relaWith tears in his eyes, “At that point in time,” together well. It’s a natuthe privilege. From love The two said their tionships with zero God Houston said, “I feel at she said, referring to ral. That’s one of the unfirst sight to the newlyimpressive compatibility the proand a relationship with derserving.” day visions she got God marrie put wed d, in there came naturally in their “you phase of life that God at the forefront.

Jean reached to him; don’t really think about for us, I guess,” Housto carried them through relationship, and they n I went to see my boytheir hands met. “I love the all that. But we do make said. ages, they said they are both came from similar friend sometime after you,” she reminded him. those vows. I can see “Your life changes when my still just as happy now backgrounds. Originally interview, and I told him Then she explained that as probably when someo you have children,” Jean they from Oregon, Housto were ne back all about the couple. in 1955. during a church service n gets married, that probasaid. All for the better, “I ended up in Arkansas think it’s pretty “That’ they attended in Florida pers going to be us,” bly is good to have them though; it makes life fect,” Jean said. where Jean lived when difI inform upon ed him confidenttheir return to the his stop and think about ferent, she said.

“We’re still happy with mother made the move ly. “We’re going to grow states, the sermon was those words. We were “But it’s always been each other,” Houston halfway across Ameri old together and be all about crossing the Red said. ca. strong,” said her husban “And that is what makes very young, very foolish, From the start, they d. Sea. cute and sweet like that.” but we survived it, and “I feel like God has always it work,” his wife replied knew it was love.

These “Takin two . g dated for two one step at a God carried us throug been one step ahead It’s Jean’s attitude that h.”

“We’ve had a good life,” of months before they got time,” Houston said.

Their advice to the us.”

Houston said he admire Jean said. married. The wife asked When the service was s. younger generations Now, their daughter That, her smile, and her Houston responded, me, “How long have you over and the two got facing lives marriage in their in 20 minutes from cheerfulness.

“We’ve had a very good known your boyfriend?” the car, it hit them: “I future is this: “Say ‘I their Taylors home, and Jean said that Housto life. We’ve had a better love “Two years,” I said. said, ‘Houston, that was n you’ a lot,” according just upstairs lives their takes care of her. Loadlife together than we “Then imagine how much just one step at a time.’ ever to Jean. “That is really son and daughter-inI ing up her walker when had before.” law. better it’ll be after all think we always looked impor Once tant. all at It their isn’t just they go to breakfast and travels were life differe It wasn’t a big weddin those years together.” ntly from that,” g words over, .

They Jean need and doing the dishes everyd to be Houston’s that summer of ’55 in Just the other day, long Jean said. “From there, ay Arsaid and expressed.” son became concerned we names only a couple kansas. But it was exactly before I’d gotten any ended up in Baja, Mexico of Waking up beside Jean about their health and word . ways he serves her. perfect for the couple of this couple celebrating One step at a time. That to every day is a treasure wanted to move them Reflecting on their 69 exchange the vows they to 69 years together, my is so simple. That has that Houston will always Taylors from Arkansas, years would keep for nearly togeth er, Houston boyfriend texted me: to be God touching your sev- where Jean and cherish, advising marrie “I’m said, Houston en decades. Two month “I d see two people in really honored to call heart in that way in that s couples to always share had settled. you love who are very comof dating? Sure, it was mine,” he said. “God’s moment.” a a good morning and “Finally, they came got patible with each other. quick decision to make good- us both. As long Their calling in 1996 night kiss. as we are there, packed us up, [She’s] the one person at such a young age, and chasing after Him, then sent them to a home I but “I find it exciting. I enhad already taken their know I can always depen Houston credits it all nothin among g can stop us.”

American misd joy waking up and to two-car garage and turned on, without a doubt.” reachGod. The sionar big secret, right ies, where Jean and ing over and touching it into this apartment,” He said the hard times “I think God just laid her, there, folks. Write Houston worked for it giving her a kiss,” he that Jean said.

13 throughout their lives on our heart,” he said. said. down, readers; I alread years installing and workA timeless love, these Last Mother’s Day y were made easier thanks “It had to have been have. Because nothin ing on phone system two share. A love that marked their four-year g can s. to their years of bondGod,” Jean agreed. stop us, “It indeed was a very . has clear anniversary of movin only strengthened ing and supporting each g calling ,” said throug Housto to Taylors. Their favorit h the ages. n. other.

The newlyweds e macy@greercitizen.com | 877-2076 So clear, in fact, that And part of the Greenville according to Housthe couple abandoned their ton, “It couldn’t have area? The climate––and A timeless love been Those early years of no plans to tour Europe better.” tornadoes! and marriage, Houston and work to aid missionaries In an age of 50 percen in another country. Their t macy@gre ercitizen.co m | 877-2076 divorce rates among mar-

‘It couldn’t have been better.

Taylors couple shares thei r secret to 69-year marriage

Macy Cochran The Greer Citizen

GROWING PAINS

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Jean Taylor

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Such a well told story that truly captures the subject and allows THEM to tell their love story. WOW!

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THIRD PLACE Leigh Savage Greenville Journal

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Roger Yale The Post and Courier Myrtle Beach/Georgetown Times

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Janet Morgan The Post and Courier Myrtle Beach/Georgetown Times Fantastic entry. What I love the most about this story is that it is truly a “lifestyle” piece. More so than the personalities, the vibe of the event as a ritual really comes across. It truly is a slice of life in Murrells Inlet.

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Dionne Gleaton The Times and Democrat

SECOND PLACE Dionne Gleaton The Times and Democrat

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Bryn Eddy The Sumter Item

Sumter coin collectors in it for the art, history and friendship

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Writing by Bryn Eddy Photos by Adam Flash

anks don’t issue their own currency anymore, but at some point in history, likely between the mid-19th century and early 20th century, currency was printed in Washington, D.C., with the words “The National Bank of Sumter” on it.

Then uncut sheets of these notes traveled to what was the Bank of Sumter on the corner of West Liberty and North Main streets. Today, it’s Grady Ervin & Co. It was in this building, however, that the bank’s cashier, who was local to Sumter, and the bank’s president signed their names on each one, whether $5 or $10 bills, that had the words “The National Bank of Sumter” on them, while other bills were 28 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2024 | LAKESIDE

I really enjoyed this piece. It was nice to learn a little bit while enjoying the ease of the story.

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THIRD PLACE Terri Richardson The Sun News

SECOND PLACE David Weissman The Sun News

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Adam Benson The Sun News

It’s fun to learn about what makes a community with features like these.

LIFESTYLE FEATURE WRITING

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THIRD PLACE Autumn Phillips The Post and Courier

SECOND PLACE Anna Sharpe The Post and Courier

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Morgan Hughes The State

Local heroes are everywhere, making the world run a bit smoother and reminding us about the things that matter most.

This story captures that beautifully. Kudos for this distinctive, unforgettable reporting.

PROFILE FEATURE WRITING OR STORY

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Catharine Barone Lexington County Chronicle

SERVING OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1925

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024

Tonya Rodgers The Twin-City News VOL. 98, NO. 6 • ONE DOLLAR

Coach looks to build tennis, pickleball program

BY CISSY TERLIZZI A Batesburg-Leesville man is working to grow interest in and access to racquet sports in the community.

Mike Bothwell, a certified tennis teaching coach and longtime amateur tennis player, is the founder of the Batesburg-Leesville Racquet Community. He is pursuing a dream of a publicly available tennis and pickleball complex for Batesburg-Leesville and surrounding areas.

After retiring from a career in the corporate world, Bothwell moved to Batesburg-Leesville about four years ago. Wanting to get involved in the

community, Bothwell became active with the Lexington Three Mentoring Program, led by Elizabeth Phillips, who is also a tennis enthusiast.

“I had eight kids that I was supposed to be mentoring for the summer. I had them for three hours, and I needed to find some activities to do other than math and reading,” Bothwell said. Believing that teaching the children to play tennis would help them become more active and provide long-term health benefits, he began teaching lessons to his mentees.

From those eight students, Bothwell’s tennis program has grown to include tennis and pickleball instruc-

tion for all ages, free of charge. There are now more than 50 people involved in the program, according to Bothwell, and in its first five months, the BLRC has provided more than 200 lessons.

The program currently uses the tennis courts at Batesburg-Leesville High School and at Hollow Creek Park in Gilbert. These courts, however, offer limited availability because of team usage and lack of access to lights and restrooms. Therefore, Bothwell has embarked upon a campaign to build a facility that will include four tennis courts and four pickleball courts with lighting, a pa-

vilion, security cameras and an electronic entry system. The cost is projected at $500,000.

Bothwell said he has been in talks with the United States Tennis Association about a grant to get the project started, and believes that he can secure the needed additional funding from larger corporations in the Midlands and generous local residents.

According to Bothwell, the current challenge is to find a suitable location for the facility. Two to three acres are needed for the complex, and Bothwell believes there is a property owner in the area who would be interested in providing the needed land.

Craving treats, anyone?

Longtime baker shares love of ‘Sweet Thanz’ with everyone

“We’ve been shopping around for property that nobody is currently using. We hope someone will be interested in donating the property in exchange for naming rights,” he said.

The benefits to the community would be significant, Bothwell said.

“Tennis and pickleball are sports that can involve the whole family, as opposed to most team sports where one child plays and the family watches,” he said.

Getting people of all ages to become more active is a great way to fight the obesity epidemic and to keep youth See TENNIS, Page 4

Mrs. Price has homework for you Retired teacher asks for former students to send memories in time for 80th birthday

BY TONYA RODGERS

Sweet Thanz cheese cookies are ready for Valentine’s Day giving.

BY TONYA RODGERS Halette Crouch has enjoyed baking for about as long as she can remember. Seeing others enjoy her sweets and treats makes this mother of three adult children and four grandchildren happy.

As a teenager she taught herself how to bake and now with the support of her husband, Marvin, who helps with deliveries, and her daughter, Leah, Crouch offers lots of goodies to individuals.

“I love to bake,” Crouch said. “It is like my therapy. After working a full-time job during the day, I can get in my kitchen, away from the outside world, and create new and different items for my neighbors, friends and family to enjoy.”

Having done this as a hobby for about 15 years, several years ago Crouch began offering an opportunity for crafters and bakers to sell their items by holding vendor events throughout Saluda County. She would meet people who told her they wanted a place to display their arts and crafts for sale, and with helping others in her nature, Crouch rented local buildings during holiday seasons to help showcase these items.

Crouch said she originally made cakes and sold them on Facebook at Christmastime. Then others began requesting cakes for birthdays, parties and other

Submitted photo Sweet Thanz owner Halette Crouch mans her spot at Sylvan Farm Farmer’s Market with her granddaughter and husband, Marvin. special occasions. Now, she makes anything from cakes to cheese straws, cupcakes, cookies, cake pops, and a relatively new item she calls Cake in a Cup. Cake in a Cup is a layer cake with icing, but what makes it unique is that it gives an almost even balance of cake and icing, rather than having most of the icing on the top and sides, and it’s packaged in a cup.

One of her fans is Angie Rita of Saluda, who said she’s purchased baked goods from Crouch many times.

“Her sweets are always delicious. We

especially love her red velvet and strawberry cakes, and her cinnamon pecan loaves are also great!” Rita said.

Crouch is looking to reach even more customers. She recently purchased a trailer to make it easier to transport her desserts to any type of event.

To try any sweets from Crouch’s Sweet Thanz, you can reach her through her Facebook page, or call her at (803) 4804055. Sylvan Farm in Saluda also recently began selling many of Crouch’s items in their farmstead store at 182 Ridge Spring Hwy.

This year, all Delle Price wants for her birthday is for people to share some special memories with her – memories of a time in her life when she was a mentor to children and adults alike. Mrs. Price has quite a story to tell of her 40 years at Lexington School District 3 as a social studies teacher.

Even today, with her 80th birthday weeks away, Price is as strong-minded and caring as she was when she taught at Batesburg-Leesville Middle School.

Looking through Price’s home, anyone walking in can see she is proud of her family and friends that she has met over her lifetime. Pictures of friends and children, those of her own and those whom she has taught, as well as her grandchildren are positioned on every wall, and a bookshelf filled with photo albums that represent the most special times in her life.

Growing up in Aiken with a father who was a teacher and school administrator throughout his career, Price realized early in life that she wanted to be an educator. She recalled sitting next to her father while he was grading papers and she was right next to him with her red marker, pretending to do exactly as he was.

They grew up in the town of Ellenton, which no longer exists due to being “demolished,” Price said, to build the Savannah River Plant. That was quite difficult, as people had to leave their homes and relocate.

“I can never go back to my childhood home or town, because it’s not there,” she said.

Submitted photo Delle Price, pictured with her late husband, Dwight, said she taught for 40 years in Lexington School District Three.

She, her mother and father moved to Johnston where both of her parents were raised, and she spent her second grade year through her junior year attending Johnston schools until the school consolidated with Strom Thurmond in 1962, the year she graduated.

She spent the next four years at Newberry College, being active “in everything,” and one summer she worked part time at Milliken Mills in Johnston.

It was there that she met the love of her life and her world changed. She and Dwight lived together in Gilbert on Dwight Price Road until his death in 2019. It remains her home today.

Price and her husband raised three sons while she was teaching and also working to obtain her master’s degree from USC Aiken. That was during a time when students See PRICE, Page 2

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Bryn Eddy Lexington County Chronicle Good writing in this story. The writer used description to help the reader feel like they were there. Well done!

PROFILE FEATURE WRITING OR STORY

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Casey Jones The Horry Independent

SECOND PLACE Scott Powell The Gaffney Ledger Two people will split last week’s Ledger football contest prize of $100. Ryan Mullinax and Susan Carr missed one game and both picked 42 for the tie-breaker total score of the Limestone-West Alabama game (14-33-47). Four others — Jeff Williams, Chad Williams, John Pennington and Gaylon Pennington — also missed only one game.

A newspaper in all that the word implies, devoted to the best interests of the people of Cherokee County.

GAFFNEY, S.C.

www.gaffneyledger.com

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2024

County’s partnership with Spectrum brings internet service to rural areas Spectrum announced last week the launch of Spectrum Internet, Mobile, TV and Voice services to more than 6,200 homes and small businesses in Cherokee County. The project is a public-private partnership between the county and Charter Communications.

The county’s $3 million investment will be used to extend internet service to homes and small businesses in rural parts of the county. The county’s investment includes $1 million from the school district and $250,000 from the Spartanburg Regional Foundation.

Spectrum’s newly constructed fiber-optic network buildout is part of the company’s approximately $5 billion RDOF-related investment in unserved rural communities, partly offset by $1.2 billion in the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) RDOF auction.

Cherokee County announced the project in 2021 in a press conference with local and state dignitaries, including South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster and the chairman of the Senate Finance Committee Harvey Peeler (R-Gaffney), in attendance.

“We were fortunate to be the first in the state for this type of project to get these sources available to our citizens. We just don’t know how much it’s needed and useful, until we can’t get on-line. There is still some work to be done, but we’re committed to continue working with Spectrum to get this service to our citizens,” Cherokee County Administrator Merv Bishop said.

The company’s RDOF expansion will provide broadband access to 1.3 million customer locations across 24 states in the coming years. Spectrum has also won more than $700 million in state broadband expansion subsidies, which, combined with Spectrum investment, will connect another 300,000 homes and small businesses.

“Spectrum is bringing gigabit broadband to unserved communities in South Carolina and across America through RDOF and state grants,” said Tim Williams, Vice President of Construction leading Spectrum’s expansions. “Our investment is making it possible to deliver the high-value broadband, mobile, TV and voice services now available in Cherokee County. We are providing local residents and small businesses superior connectivity at highly competitive prices, backed by a team of skilled local technicians and 100% U.S.-based customer service.”

15-year-old to be charged with murder

By SCOTT POWELL Ledger Staff Writer spowell@gaffneyledger.com

West End Baptist Church pianist Linda Thompson is shown with pastor Michael McCurry while rehearsing for this Sunday’s 50th anniversary service.

Thompson is retiring after 70 years as the church pianist.

She’s been ‘tickling the ivories’ at West End Baptist for 70 years

By SCOTT POWELL Ledger Staff Writer spowell@gaffneyledger.com

MAYOR PRO TEM Blacksburg Town Council member S.L. Ford was sworn in for his third term. Ford was elected mayor pro tem Sept. 10 by town council members.

75 CENTS

Linda Thompson will end a lifetime in music Sunday when she plays for her final hymn during a worship service at West End Baptist Church.

Although all church services are special, this Sunday’s service is noteworthy for several reasons.

Thompson is retiring after 70 years as the pianist at the church.

West End will celebrate its 50th anniversary as part of the 10:30 a.m. worship service on Overbrook Drive. There will be a slide show, special music and a luncheon as part of the anniversary celebration.

“I’ve never heard of anyone serve 70 years in any capacity in a church,” West End Baptist Church Pastor Michael McCurry said. “Linda has outlasted six pastors and 20 music directors. When we found out Linda was retiring, we decided to combine our 50th anniversary and plans to honor her retirement into one service. We have a few surprises for Linda that she doesn’t know about.”

Born and raised in Gaffney, Thompson was an infant when her dad decided the family should start going to a new church called West End Baptist Church in the early 1940s. The church was originally built on the site of apartments across from Bronco’s restaurant. It burned in 1974 when the present West End Baptist l See TICKLING, Page 2

A 15-year-old male was arrested by Gaffney police officers late Sunday evening in connection with the shooting death of a Gaffney man over the weekend.

The juvenile will be charged with murder and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime, Gaffney Police Department Major Brian Blanton said.

“He was transported to the Department of Juvenile Justice in Columbia and will await a hearing to determine if he will be tried as an adult,” Blanton said in a news release.

Officers with the Gaffney Police Department took the juvenile into custody on Sunday, Sept. 15 at 10:36 p.m. as part of their investigation into a shooting incident Saturday night at Limestone Courts Apartments.

Cherokee County Coroner Dennis Fowler identified the victim as Kirsten Phillips, 41, of Pryor Street.

“Phillips and another subject reportedly were engaged in an argument outside the Limestone Courts Apartments at 940 North Limestone Street about 10:30 p.m. when he was shot,” Fowler said.

Phillips was transported to Cherokee Medical Center after he was found by Gaffney police officers with multiple gunshots to the abdomen.

Phillips died in the hospital emergency department Saturday at 11:34 p.m., Fowler said. An autopsy will be performed to assist with the coroner’s death investigation.

The shooting at Limestone Courts Apartments remains under investigation by the Gaffney Police Department.

Anyone with information related to the shooting is asked to call Major Brian Blanton at (864) 206-3334.

County council decides to build new coroner’s office

By LARRY HILLIARD Ledger Staff Writer larry@gaffneyledger.com

original estimate for new space.

The new office will be located behind the existing coroner’s office on county-owned property.

tree for $12,000 month. That lease expires Dec. 18.

Buying the building was always a long shot because there didn’t appear enough time for the Peachtree Cen-

PROFILE FEATURE WRITING OR STORY

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COASTAL OBSERVER Thursday, August 15, 2024

FAITH | Barry Stopfel

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Chris Sokoloski Coastal Observer

Heresy trial just one moment in priest’s active life

By Chris Sokoloski COASTAL OBSERVER

An Episcopal priest who was at the center of a heresy trial nearly 30 years now lives a quiet life on the South Carolina coast and is priest emeritus of Holy Cross Faith Memorial Episcopal Church.

Father Barry Stopfel, 76, started the controversy because he is homosexual.

The media coverage surrounding the trial of the Rt. Rev. Walter Righter, who ordained him in 1990, gave Stopfel a megaphone to speak to the press about LGBTQ issues.

“This was my opportunity to say there are lots of people who are being mutilated by the institution that need to find their dignity and their self-respect.

Someone pay attention to them,” Stopfel said. “Often I was critiqued for that attitude, that I wasn’t an institutional apologist.”

One of the things that amused Stopfel at that time was people telling him not to take the trial personally.

“It felt like I was this pawn being moved around,” Stopfel said.

He knew the church

would take care of itself, he added.

Six years after Stopfel’s ordination, Righter was acquitted after a trial by a church court.

At the time of Righter’s trial, Stopfel had been in a relationship for 10 years with Will Leckie, who was a minister in the United Church of Christ.

The pressures of the trial eventually led Stopfel and Leckie to part ways after 15 years together.

“What happened ultimately was that, the time we needed to take to focus on our relationship got set aside for the project. It became one of those, we have to do this. We have to prevail. We have to win.

We have to make this happen,” Stopfel said. “Ultimately the relationship fell apart because we didn’t have the time to create the kind of intimacy we needed to create. We did not ever stop loving each other but there was this immense pressure that drew us apart to some degree.”

Leckie is now a Buddhist monk.

“He never lost his sense of holiness or spirituality, just not in the tra-

Chris Sokoloski/Coastal Observer

Father Barry Stopfel is priest emeritus at Holy Cross Faith Memorial Episcopal Church. ditional church,” Stopfel said.

After years of progress on LGBTQ issues, including the 2015 Supreme Court ruling that samesex couples have a right to marry, Stopfel is concerned about the amount of anti-LGBTQ laws being

considered by state legislatures across the country.

“It’s not like we can relax. This is bigger than we imagined,” he said. “Depending on what happens in this next election cycle, we better be vigilant, both as voters and citizens and those of us in the church.”

ARTS | Wooden Boat Show

boat inspires artist decades Great look into the challenges and rewards of an One individual life. Well-written, keptlater me reading.

By Chris Sokoloski

American selected to create the art for the Wooden Boat Show.

When Charles Wil“I’m so proud and I liams was a teenage hope for other national-

COASTAL OBSERVER

ally excited.”

Williams said the S.C. Carolina Maritime Museum reached out to him three months before the

shirts.

“To see people wearing the T-shirt and to be among the collection of artists to me is like the

n Stopfel will be talking about his life during “An Evening With The God Who Dances (and Father Barry Stopfel)” at the Waccamaw Library.

“I hope it’s both historic in nature and also about what it has been like for an out gay man all of these years to try to do ministry in an institution that has always had difficulty with change and human sexuality,” Stopfel said. “Just because they have let us in doesn’t mean it has become comfortable with all the complications of human sexuality.”

As part of the multimedia presentation, Stopfel will show part of the 1996 interview with Ted Koppel on “Nightline,” and tell personal stories about his life, including his years in New York City working for the Gay Men’s Health Crisis when the AIDS epidemic started before he entered seminary.

“Those years as a gay activist shaped everything I’ve done in the Episcopal church,” Stopfel said. “You don’t survive a plague and not let that shape your theology and what you want to do in the church.”

There will also be a slide show, cabaret music and a Q&A. Stopfel said he is at an age where he needs to look back on his life and what he’s done in ministry.

“There’s this urge to want to put it all together in some sort of narrative or story that makes sense,” he added.

8

Stopfel also believes people – especially in churches – have a “hunger” to hear stories.

“They want to hear the stories of people’s lives,” he said. “So that’s what we decided to do.” n Since he retired to Myrtle Beach, Stopfel has been involved with Holy Cross and St. Anne’s Episcopal Church in Conway.

“They sort of sucked me back into the institution, into congregations that were notably progressive and liberal,” Stopfel said. “What was fun about that was, for the first time in retirement I didn’t have to worry about all of the conflict. I could begin my ministries with everyone knowing what the story was.”

Knowing that he couldn’t be fired gave him freedom, he added.

“I didn’t need the job,” Stopfel said. “I could truly work on my pastorate and be with people and keep my sense of humor and be progressive.”

Stopfel called his relationship with the church a “contentious love affair.”

“It’s never been easy,” he said. “We’ve argued a lot over the years.”

If You Go What: “An Evening With The God Who Dances (and Father Barry Stopfel).”

When: Aug. 22, 6 p.m.

Where: Waccamaw Library.

Admission: Free.

PROFILE FEATURE WRITING OR STORY

DIVISION D

THIRD PLACE

Caleb Bozard The Post and Courier Columbia/ Free Times

SECOND PLACE

August Krickel The Post and Courier Columbia/ Free Times THE IDENTITY ISSUE

Set for USC’s ‘A Raisin in the Sun,’ actor Jocelyn Sanders reflects on career, the moment

BY AUGUST KRICKEL Special to Free Times “This is, without a doubt, the first great play written by an African-American, about African-Americans. It changed America forever.”

Jocelyn Sanders speaks on Lorraine Hansberry’s seminal 1959 play “A Raisin in the Sun.” The veteran Midlands theater artist portrays the central role of Younger family matriarch Lena in an upcoming Longstreet Theatre production staged by the University of South Carolina’s Department of Theatre and Dance.

Playing Lena is just the latest in a storied career that spans the last half century, an era that has seen significant gains in rights for women, people of color and the LGBTQ+ community.

Theater has been a vehicle for that message of change, Sanders told Free Times, with audiences sometimes able to feel empathy for a character whose experience or perspective is different than their own.

“Theater allows them to feel,” she said.

“I’m not doing theater to change your mind, but maybe to open your mind.”

And while she has been involved in plenty of frothy and feel-good comedies, much of her work has been with socially conscious plays; recent directorial gigs have included “Lady Day at Emerson’s

PROVIDED

“A Raisin in the Sun” premieres Feb. 23, 2024 at the University of South Carolina’s Longstreet Theatre.

Bar and Grill” and “The Color Purple,” both of which explored aspects of the African-American experience, and the musical “Kinky Boots” which was a joyful celebration of tolerance, inclusion and the world of drag.

Inducted into the South Carolina Theatre Association Hall of Fame in 2023, Sanders has always found theater to be a safe place and second home.

As one of the first seven Black women to enter the previously all-White Columbia College, Sanders gravitated to the theater department and immediately found acceptance.

Professor and mentor Rai Baillie recommended that she become involved with Workshop Theatre, describing it as “a place where you will be welcomed.”

The first play she attended was the groundbreaking “The Boys in the Band,” a frank and open depiction of the lives of gay men. Featured in the cast was Jim Thigpen, future co-founder with wife Kay of Trustus Theatre, where Sanders later acted, directed and served as Box Office Manager.

Leaving a Workshop cast party in those early years, Sanders recalled saying to herself with confidence: “I’m in the right profession, in the right place and I’m doing the right thing.”

At 5’10”, Sanders has always held her head high.

At the celebration of the late Kay Thig-

ner is everything that you are.”

Like the protagonists of “Raisin,” Sanders has experienced conflict over home ownership and inheritance. In the play, Walter (De’on Turner) hopes to start a business with money left by his father, while mother Lena longs for a home in a safe neighborhood and a future for daughter Beneatha (Fiona Schreier, fellow Free Times writer) in the 1950’s, a time of segregation and prejudice “Lorraine Hansberry was so prescient in this play,” Sanders observed. “She knew the history of Black people. What’s the most important thing you can own?

A home. A home is saying to the world ‘I have succeeded. I own what I have set my feet on. No matter what you do to me, you can’t take this from me. You can’t break us.’”

“It’s deeply rooted in the psyche of Black people, who were not allowed to own anything — not even our name,” she continued. “And this is still happening to African American families. That’s what’s so hypocritical about what’s going on in this country. It’s insidious — and we have to deal with it every day.”

Sanders shared that “as an actor, you have to pull from some personal something” in creating a character.

Using her own experiences and history, she told herself “Make that work for Lena Younger. Let me channel all of that into what she brings to the scene.”

At the second read-through of the script, she was in tears by the close of a particularly emotional scene, leading the director to compassionately call for a break.

PROFILE FEATURE WRITING OR STORY

DIVISION D

FIRST PLACE

John Jeter Greenville Journal

It is rare, in my experience, for a writer to capture the essence of a person’s life and times. This writer does so with grace and style.

PROFILE FEATURE WRITING OR STORY

DIVISION C

THIRD PLACE Evan Smoak The Journal, Seneca

SECOND PLACE Matthew Robertson Morning News

PROFILE FEATURE WRITING OR STORY

DIVISION C

FIRST PLACE

Dionne Gleaton The Times and Democrat Family farms are going by the wayside… Writer did a great job with this story!

PROFILE FEATURE WRITING OR STORY

DIVISION B

THIRD PLACE Terri Richardson The Sun News

SECOND PLACE Emalyn Muzzy The Sun News

PROFILE FEATURE WRITING OR STORY

DIVISION B

FIRST PLACE

John Marks The Herald

This one is a hit to all feels (and fields). This “Old Man,” he played ball!

PROFILE FEATURE WRITING OR STORY

DIVISION A

THIRD PLACE Sarah Swetlik Greenville News

SECOND PLACE Jessica Wade The Post and Courier

PROFILE FEATURE WRITING OR STORY

DIVISION A

FIRST PLACE

Jessica Wade The Post and Courier

I never thought I would be as invested in the story of a cat as I was by the story of Flounder. Anyone who has cats know they can be divas and the lede set the tone for a story that delivered. Entertaining read that made me smile multiple times.

FOOD WRITING

DIVISIONS E & F COMBINED

THIRD PLACE

Tom Werner and Suzanne Detar The Daniel Island News 24 | FOOD thedanielislandnews.com

The Daniel Island News ■ April 25 - May 1, 2024

Tom & Sue’s Incomplete Guide

to Indian Food in the Lowcountry TOM WERNER AND SUZANNE DETAR

INTRODUCTION Sue’s Take: In 2004, our family hosted a Rotary Club of Daniel Island exchange student from India. Nikita was a wonderful 16-year-old who, though quiet and reserved, blended in with my much younger and more boisterous children.

She liked to hang out with me in the kitchen when I prepared our family meals.

One day, longing for the tastes of home, she handed me a packet of cumin with a hopeful look. I’m afraid my brand of fusion cooking with random Indian spices did not agree with the Detar kids’ tastebuds or my cooking repertoire.

At Nikita’s request, we took the family

for dinner at Nirlep Indian Restaurant in West Ashley. She was anxious to share her native cuisine with her exchange family.

Knowing it was important to her, I tried small portions, but I sensed her disappointment when her new siblings complained about the “odd” food.

While Nikita didn’t immediately turn me into a connoisseur of Indian food, many years later my food-adventurous husband Tom started taking me to the local Indian food buffets. It took several trips, but I became a convert.

I introduced Tom to Nikita when we met up with her and her husband in Portland, Oregon. Now in charge of her own kitchen, Nikita prepared a wonderful Indian

curry dish that delighted our senses.

For many years, the Indian options in the area were limited to one or two restaurants. Today, there are many Indian and Indian-Pakistani restaurants in the Charleston area. While we didn’t hit them all, that just means we have more Indian outings in our future.

Tom’s Take: My first exposure to Indian culture was through Siran, a 23-yearold graduate student and teaching assistant who was also my fraternity pledge brother (it’s a long story that nearly ended with his expulsion, but that’s not important here).

With the endless shot-gunning of Milwaukee’s Best, pepperoni pizzas, and a slew of fast food, the pledging process TOM WERNER

TASTE OF INDIA West Ashley

Sue’s Take: We go for the lunch buffet.

With adult children living across the globe and with families of their own, we are often on our own for a holiday. Rather than wallow in dishes, we seize the opportunity to hit up Taste of India’s buffet. Sometimes we couple it with a bike ride along the West Ashley Greenway. I like the variety.

At Easter brunch I tried their goat curry – it did not disappoint!

Tom’s Take: Taste of India has been my go-to Indian buffet for over 20 years. During that time, I hadn’t learned the name of

and ensuing fraternity life were more like a one-sided corruption of a very willing innocent than a true cultural exchange.

However, one week during my junior year, Siran filled in as the fraternity house cook. He laid out meals of masala chicken, tandoori chicken, biryani chicken and, well, some other chicken concoction that ruined me for the undercooked shepherd’s pie and overcooked spaghetti that was our standard fare.

So, thank you, Siran, for introducing me to the food of your people. Why you ever risked family shunning over a Burger King Whopper when you could just whip up a chana tikka masala in your dorm room hot pot is beyond me.

Honey balls are Tom’s favorite dessert at Taste of India’s buffet. On one occasion, he “downed” six full plates from the buffet and topped it off with a couple of bowls of rice pudding and half a dozen honey-soaked fried dough balls from the dessert station. (Somehow, he drove himself home and slept for 16 hours.)

TOM WERNER I probably should not be as proud of this Taste of India is Tom and Sue’s go-to spot as I am, but I once downed six full plates for a holiday buffet. Here, Sue checks out the from the buffet, topped that off with a Easter Sunday buffet. couple of bowls of rice pudding, and half a dozen honey-soaked fried dough balls one offering because anything that found its way into one of their chafing dishes was from the dessert station, somehow drove myself home, and slept for 16 hours. It sure to be north of awesome.

SPICE PALETTE Mount Pleasant Sue’s Take: One of my favorite dishes is palak paneer.

Spice Palette offers an exceptional take on the pureed spinach dish with Indian cheese, and its regular serving is supersized. The menu is extensive – I look forward to many, many visits before we have a chance to taste it all.

Tom’s Take: One does not go to Spice Palette just for

dinner. There’s also the next day’s breakfast, lunch, and dinner that you will be carrying home at the end of the meal. I had the remains of my Kerala fish curry with mahi over eggs for breakfast, with basmati rice for lunch, and over a huge baked potato for dinner. With a bit of creativity, it was four meals in one, and it is also the main reason Sue is starting me back on intermittent fasting. How one quart of fish curry became an extra 10 pounds on my belly is beyond me. The math just doesn’t make sense.

was, without a doubt, the single greatest day in my life. EDIT: It was clearly and positively, the second greatest day in my life, as nothing, not even a belly full of honey-soaked dough balls, could come close to the joy of Sue’s and my wedding day (although that particular day was really, really close).

TOM WERNER

The entrée portions at Spice Palette are generous. The Kerala fish curry with mahi (front) and the palak paneer, coupled with rice and naan, provided enough leftovers for several meals.

SECOND PLACE Macy Cochran The Greer LivingCitizen Here

THE GREER CITIZEN B9

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024

ORDER UP!

GROWING PAINS

Sibert named 2024 SC Chef Ambassador

Java nice run!

BY MACY COCHRAN EDITOR He was raised in a family with a love for cooking, sparking his passion for it at an early age. From making sauces in the kitchen as a child, to applying for culinary school later in life, to opening his own restaurant right here in Greer, Michael Sibert has now been appointed by Governor Henry McMaster a 2024 South Carolina Chef Ambassador.

In January, Sibert obtained his honor, adding to his ever-growing list of accomplishments.

O

PREHEATING

Inspired by his family, Sibert grew up watching his grandfather cooking late at night, early in the morning, smoking anything he could get his hands on. And then, he took his first step to pursuing his dream.

“I remember getting the letter in the mail in 2009,” he said.

The Greenwood native started out at Greenville Technical College and later became alumnus of Cornell University and the Culinary Institute of the Carolinas.

Before taking on his fulltime passion to cook, he said he gave himself a few options, which included welding, piloting, and music production, until the time came for him to make the logical decision for his career. That decision? Becoming a chef.

PREP WORK

When Sibert married his wife, who was originally from New Orleans, LA, he said she gave him her great-great-grandmother’s recipes.

“That gave us the idea of our first restaurant,” Sibert said. “But if you’re going to cook Cajun food, you have to be down there in it.”

So the couple packed up and moved to New Orleans, where Sibert trained in big name kitchens, no

M.M. COCHRAN

PHOTO | SUBMITTED

Chef Michael Sibert stands with fellow 2024 SC Chef Ambassadors, Chef Leslie Rohland and Chef Javier Uriarte. The three chefs were appointed by Governor Henry McMaster in January for embodying the best of South Carolina’s food scene, both in the quality of their ingredients and in their devotion to being active in their communities. ing to another Greer space that would allow for the restaurant’s development.

“We had to press pause on it because it was growing so fast. . . until we reopen in a new location that would give us more space to be successful,” he said.

In addition, he also started his highly successful catering company under the same name.

With a new White Wine and Butter location on the back burner, Sibert opened Anonymous Burger in the same food hall in Greer.

ROOTED IN GREER

“Greer has always been our focus,” Sibert said.

“The goal has always been to keep [White Wine and Butter] in Greer. So many people tell us to move to Greenville, but we kind of fell in love with Greer, and Greer reciprocates that. It’s been a personal mission to bridge the gap between Greer and Greenville and surrounding areas and help continue to put Greer on the map.”

With his catering business keeping him busy on

through email first, then we started talking a lot.”

Food Network officials had told Sibert, “We’ve been watching your Instagram page and see all the work you’re doing.”

In addition, officials noticed the local cooking competitions Sibert had been doing in Greer, such as Iron Caterer, an upstate fundraiser.

Having applied and interviewed for Food Network before, this wasn’t Sibert’s first interaction with the network’s officials, but it was, however, the first time they had been piqued by his success and reached out to him first.

“I made it very clear I wanted to be myself, an individual,” he said, regarding being on television.

Upon agreement and working around Sibert’s busy catering schedule, he began training for the show and booked flights to California. Each night after work, he went to the Food Lion in his neighborhood, set a timer, and rushed through the store to grab ingredients for the “challenge” his wife would

PHOTO | SUBMITTED

Sibert stays busy as the owner of White Wine and Butter catering, Anonymous Burger in Greer, and the opening of his newest endeavor, Hendrix Chicken and Waffles. honor.

“It was on my radar that they were considering me as a chef ambassador,” he said. “What I believe happened was one of the high-

riculture Hugh Weathers said that over the past 10 years, the chef ambassadors have supported local food and relationships with farmers, which is ex-

ver the weekend, I went on a church retreat with about 11 girls to Edisto Island.

That Saturday morning, I was reading through the Gospel of John at the dining table, about to make an iced latte, when a few girls started getting ready to go on a run.

Obviously, they thought I should come with them for their “light jog on the beach,” but I said, “No, I’ll stay. I have no endurance, anyway.” But I felt God telling me that if I remained in my seat, I would feel convicted. I would be too comfortable.

I wouldn’t be pushing myself and proving that I CAN do uncomfy things.

I forgot about the latte and laced up my Converse (I came unprepared for physical activity), and the four of us darted to the beach.

“Oh,” I said between breaths, “this isn’t so bad. Is it normal for your ankles to hurt?”

We made it to the beach, deciding there to alternate between walking and running intervals.

“Thank God,” I thought.

Because my body endurance was dwindling.

It was a cold morning, and I was dressed in sweatpants and a sweatshirt. But inside my chest, my lungs stretched with every breath, my heart beating into my throat at any movement that was off pace. I felt like I was going to die. Seriously, drop dead right there on the beach. My chest burned––BURNED––with what I could only assume was fire inside my lungs or the beginning of a heart attack.

“You got this, Macy!” said Skylar.

When I made it to the end of our running interval, I collapsed over a wet rock and attempted a

FOOD WRITING

ISSUE 30 • 2 SEC TIONS, 14 PAGES

DIVISIONS E & F COMBINED

FIRST PLACE

Brian Garner The News & Reporter

s

BY BILL MARION/SPECIAL TO THE N&R

Easy as pie: Three aspects of the pizza throwing skill Siler Chapman demonstrated at the Chester Rotary Club recently.

Dough-etry in motion

Chapman, known to fans Pizza dough throwing expert shows Rotary Siler as “The King of Fire”.

Chapman has appeared on how it’s done; pizza tossing fame means Food Network and is a threehis restaurant is rolling in the dough time world pizza champion, who

BY BRIAN GARNER

BGARNER@ONLINECHESTER.COM

Watching the guest speaker at the Chester Rotar y Club was as easy as pie. The Rotarians were really in the dough at their latest meeting. (Insert bad pizza pun here).

Hard to believe it, but someone throwing around a combination of flour, water and salt held the Chester Rotarians spellbound for most of an hour. Easy to believe it when that someone is worldclass pizza dough thrower

has competed in competitions in New York, L.A. and Italy.

“I started my first restaurant in Fort Mill, and we are working with Wild Bees to get a brick and mortar spot in Chester,” he said by way of introduction.

SEE PIZZA/PAGE A7

CCSO holds Prayer Vigilstory forasfallen LEOs Great use of humor and storytelling that captures the audience from the start. Loved the development of an underdog well. I was rooting for a stranger!

m o a w b b d o A (A

C r

A

FOOD WRITING

DIVISION D

THIRD PLACE Tiare Solis Greenville Journal

SECOND PLACE

Jane Godiner The Post and Courier Columbia/ Free Times

FOOD WRITING

DIVISION D

FIRST PLACE

Jane Godiner The Post and Courier Columbia/Free Times

I enjoyed the various perspectives and in-depth stories.

FOOD WRITING

DIVISIONS B & C COMBINED

SECOND PLACE

THIRD PLACE

Chloe Appleby The Island Packet

Alaysha Maple The Sumter Item

ONTHE RISE &

ON ROLL A

32 JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2024 | LAKESIDE

MENU Two Sumter food truck owners dish about the rise of the local industry Words by Alaysha Maple Photos by Adam Flash

M

eals on wheels. Bites on the go. Cuisines on the corner. Whatever you want to call it, the food truck industry is transforming urban dining one delicious stop at a time.

When businesses were ordered closed and social distancing requirements forced us out of our norm during the COVID-19 pandemic, restaurants in particular were among the hardest hit. Food trucks, however, flourished.

Between 2018 and 2023, the food truck industry grew at a 9.9% annual rate.

Food trucks have evolved from horse and carriage, with motorized vendors traveling all over to sell their unique crafts.The current popularity of food trucks, however, can be traced back to the 2008 Great Recession. In the United States, public markets were a hot spot for mobile kitchens, as some vendors could not afford stalls to sell food and other items. Over time, as public markets declined and private stores grew, outdoor vending remained popular in impoverished areas.

Food trucks initially became popular in large cities like Los Angeles and New York City and spread to other metropolitan areas over time.

COVID-19 amplified the spread, as vendors and consumers were looking for ways to still eat deliciously while adhering to regulations of our “new normal." In 2023, IBISWorld reported a 10% increase in the number of food trucks in the United States, totaling over 43,215 food truck businesses– including these two in Sumter.

A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM 33

FOOD WRITING

DIVISIONS B & C COMBINED

FIRST PLACE

Terri Richardson The Sun News

I enjoyed learning about the contestant’s life and some anecdotes about what the competition process was like.

FOOD WRITING

DIVISION A

THIRD PLACE Lillia Callum-Penso The Post and Courier

SECOND PLACE Parker Milner The Post and Courier

FOOD WRITING

DIVISION A

FIRST PLACE

Parker Milner The Post and Courier

This nostalgic article was very descriptive and allowed me to recreate the distinctive smells and aromas in my head as if I were really present in the gas station or garage. The article was a great blend of personal stories and a staple of the American dining culture.

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT WRITING

DIVISIONS E & F COMBINED

THIRD PLACE Tom O’Dare Myrtle Beach Herald

SECOND PLACE Travis Jenkins The News & Reporter

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT WRITING

DIVISIONS E & F COMBINED

FIRST PLACE

Ashley Lowrimore The Lancaster News

Very relatable. Was not only interesting but also informative.

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT WRITING

DIVISION D

THIRD PLACE Leigh Savage Greenville Journal

SECOND PLACE Margaret Evans Lowcountry Weekly

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT WRITING

DIVISION D

FIRST PLACE

Brandon Roberts The Summerville Journal Scene

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Let me start my saying I absolutely hate anything – books, movies or even reviews like this – dealing with vampires. That being said, this writer made me want to see retheareaction a vampire movie! As I read all of the other entries in this category, I kept thinking “he made me want to watch a vampire movie.” Isn’tA that ma we all strive for?

yors fac e

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT WRITING

DIVISION C

THIRD PLACE Sports: Junior Golf Association has its Tour Championship 1B

Greg K. Deal Index-Journal

VOL. 106, NO. 128

indexjournal.com DAILY $2

WEDNESDAY, JULY 24, 2024

2 SECTIONS, 14 PAGES

‘I thoroughly have enjoyed it’

Greenwood City Councilwoman Betty Boles signs a document after Monday’s council meeting, where she announced she would not be seeking reelection in November.

Boles not seeking reelection to Greenwood City Council

By DAMIAN DOMINGUEZ ddominguez@indexjournal.com

After two decades on Greenwood City Council, Betty Boles will not seek reelection in November.

“It has been an honor to serve the city,” she said during Monday’s council meeting. “I thoroughly have enjoyed it, though it’s been

DAMIAN DOMINGUEZ | INDEX-JOURNAL

SCDOT gets $200M more for bridge program

Boles was first elected to council in 2003, beating out Mitch Knight to fill the seat left over when Brooks Bryant moved out of Ward 3.

“When I first came on council, I have to be honest, I was green,” some ups and downs.”

Still, her time serving Ward she said. “I had to educate myself Three under three city managers as time went on.”

Before she even announced has been a privilege, she said.

“Now it’s time for me to take her bid for the seat, she met with then-City Manager Steve Brown. some time for myself,” she said.

Technology update

Greenwood building department to receive new software. 7A

Oft-overlooked bass players are band’s heartbeat

By GREG K. DEAL gdeal@indexjournal.com

GREG K. DEAL | INDEX-JOURNAL

They often strum their instruments in the shadows of the stage, taking a back seat to a band’s lead singer, electric guitarist and drummer.

After shows, fans generally flock to see the lead singer, guitarist or even the drummer, while the bassists quietly exit the stage.

That said, bass players are the heartbeat of a band, providing a pulsating, rhythmic foundation that shapes a group’s sound and gets concert-goers tapping their toes.

“We kind of have a little saying that we laugh about: You come to see and hear the lead singer, but the bass player gets butts out of seats,” said J.P. Jones, a bassist who has played in many bands.

“People feel it.”

To solo bassist Chris Hardy, the bass player’s role provides a bridge for rhythm, melody and harmony.

“In one aspect, you’re supporting the drummer by giving the drummer melody, and you’re giving the guitar player and the piano player rhythm,” Hardy said. “It’s like you’re supporting two separate aspects of the band and sort of making them more complete.”

Jones said the bass player needs to do his part and serve the song.

“You’re not out there to impress people,” he said. “It is probably why bass is overlooked. If you’re doing it right, you’re overlooked. If you’re doing it wrong, they’re going to hear you, and it’s going to be awful. So, you should serve the song. What you don’t play is as important, or maybe more important, than the notes you do play.”

For bassist Austin Woodard, who plays in several bands, including Bad Weather States, it’s all about the genre.

He said a bass player plays a bigger role in a lot of rhythm and blues-inspired music.

“There’s more to notice because it’s doing more, whereas, when it comes to most of it — like rock ‘n’ roll stuff or pop genre, stuff like that — it’s just there to create a layer of something

J.P. Jones has played bass for several bands and was part of the North Side Baptist Church praise band in See BASS, page 7A Greenwood for about 10 years.

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INSIDE TODAY • ABBY 2A • CLASSIFIEDS 4B-6B • COMICS 3B

See BOLES, page 4A

All about that bass

From staff reports Bridges in the Lakelands are among those throughout the state about to get repairs.

The state Department of Transportation Commission approved updates to its bridge program following an additional one-time funding of $200 million from the General Assembly.

A press release from SCDOT said $100 million will be allocated to bridges on primary and interstate routes, while $100 million will go to bridges on secondary roads.

This funding will supplement the existing $239 million in the current program.

While the current budget will not cover all the projects outlined in the new program map, SCDOT said it will prioritize and address projects as funding becomes available.

District 2, Package 2 includes four closed and load-restricted bridges: U.S. 178 over CSX Railroad in Greenwood County, S.C. 201 over Park Creek in Abbeville County, S.C. 283 over Turkey Creek in Edgefield County and U.S. 378 over Cuffeytown Creek in McCormick County.

These bridges are part of SCDOT’s program aimed at improving mobility, reducing the number of load-restricted bridges and extending their service life.

The bridge on U.S. 178 over CSX Railroad in Greenwood County is expected to reopen for traffic in early August. The repairs involve concrete and steel work, painting and repaving the bridge deck.

While SCDOT is on track to complete the 500 bridges outlined in the agency’s 10-year plan, the additional funding are projected to accelerate and expand the efforts beyond the original goals.

For more than an hour, he took the time to talk to her about the departments and function of the city’s government. This helped encourage her to run for office; what she knew she’d need was compassion for the city’s people.

“At the time, the city was growing,” she said.

• DAYBREAK • HOROSCOPES • OBITUARIES

2A 2A 4A

• SPORTS • WEATHER

1B-2B 8A

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SECOND PLACE Matthew Robertson Morning News

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT WRITING A28

DIVISION C

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THE SUMTER ITEM IMPACT

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024

Arts & entertainment

Billy Lane greets guests at the weekly Wings and Strings music night at Pizza Lane.

It’s a wing-dingin’ good time!

Sumter’s Pizza Lane brings back Wings & Strings

BY ALAYSHA MAPLE alaysha@theitem.com

S

ome of the greatest ideas

FIRST PLACE

come from crazy conversations with your friends. Take

Billy Lane and Hank Martin, for example.

Lane, the namesake and founder of

Alaysha Maple The Sumter Item

PHOTOS BY ADAM FLASH / THE SUMTER ITEM

Musicians light up the stage at Pizza Lane’s Wings and Strings, bringing a mix of nostalgia and fresh talent to the music night.

Sumter’s beloved Pizza Lane, was hanging out in one of the restaurant’s booths one fateful day, watching renowned artist Martin cut a rug to his song “Doin’ The James Brown.” Enamored with the vibe of the pizza parlor when filled with music, Martin suggested, “Bill, you should start having music up here.”

“I said, ‘Man, this is a pizza place. I can’t do that’,” Lane recalled, reenacting his disbelief at the wild idea. It seemed so far-fetched for the quaint restaurant but not impossible.

The more Lane pondered the idea, the better it started to sound.

After working with the late, great Francis Hanna to tuck sound system wires underneath the cushion of a booth a few tables down from the stage to act as Hanna's mixing console, Wings and Strings was born in the early 2000s. Local musicians would rock the small stage every week, joined in harmony by the bright-faced patrons who were in the mood for good food and a good time. Anyone interested in performing could show up, sign up and sing and play the night away.

“We stayed in here until the [news] paper came the next morning,” Lane said.

Martin would be one of many to take the stage over the years. Others would include seasoned musicians like the late Brooks Wilkinson of Prime Tyme and As If and the late

Bilton

SEE STRINGS, PAGE A29

Thank you for voting us Best of Sumter!

A great article capturing a stalwart in the community. The author captured the sentiment of the musicians that have played on the stage after all these years.

7 YEARS IN A ROW! Serving Sumter and surrounding areas since 1993

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT WRITING

DIVISION B

THIRD PLACE Terri Richardson The Sun News

SECOND PLACE Ben Morse The Sun News

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT WRITING

DIVISION B

FIRST PLACE

Isabella Douglas The Island Packet

Engaging and proper writing style/grammar, free of errors. Displayed knowledge and understanding of content and social context.

Topic very relevant in modern-day “cancel culture” and erasure of offensive materials.

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT WRITING

DIVISION A

THIRD PLACE A.J. Jackson Greenville News

SECOND PLACE

Kalyn Oyer & Chelsea Grinstead The Post and Courier

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT WRITING

DIVISION A

FIRST PLACE

Chelsea Grinstead The Post and Courier

Kudos to the reporter for being able to deftly bring together what could easily have been two separate stories, but worked much better as one.

Interesting read on a topic that might otherwise go ignored.