Pamela Metts receives resolution from Rep. McCravy and Sen. Garrett
On November 29th Sen. Garrett and Rep. McCravy presented a resolution to Pamela Metts upon her well-deserved retirement after eighteen years of distinguished service with the Greenwood County Family Court as a highly regarded administrative assistant. We congratulate her on a job well done!
Free help for those perplexed by the digital world
Does downloading an app to your smart phone require assistance from your grandchild? Do you have a hissy fit if you have to generate even one more multi-character password? Do QR codes make your eyes glaze over? Are you still writing checks at the grocery store? Then this free class might be for you. WCFIBER and Piedmont Technical College (PTC) have joined forces to offer a free digital literacy class on the college’s McCormick County Campus on Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2023, from 6-8 p.m. "This class will cover internet basics, smart phone devices and apps, iCloud technologies, social media platforms, and streaming services,” said Tracy Clifton, training development director for continuing education at PTC. "Participants also will learn how to spot scams and phishing emails.” The class will be held in room 117MM on PTC’s McCormick County Campus located at 1008 Kelly Street in McCormick. Register online at https://www.ptc.edu/continuing-ed/browse-courses/technologies-today. For further details, contact Tracy Clifton at 864-941-8575.
Greenwood to host 2023 Hejaz Shriners Fall Ceremonial Oct 28
The Greenwood Shrine Club and City of Greenwood will welcome the Hejaz Shriners 2023 Fall Ceremonial on October 28, 2023. Everyone is invited to come help celebrate the awesome time. Kicking off the event will be a parade beginning at 10 a.m. from Main St. Baptist Church and ending at Fat Daddys BBQ. Then at 6 p.m. the band Month of Mondays will perform un the Uptown Market on 220 Maxwell Ave where refreshments, food truck and cash bar will be available. This will be an awesome time for the entire family to enjoy. The Greenwood Shriners do a lot of events throughout the year that many of you enjoy. They work hard to raise funds to support the Shriners Hospital who helps so many children. As great way to show them support is by coming out to the parade and concert and make this years ceremony the best ever.
Miss Lander University, Shelley Nevins, Set to Participate in the 2023 Miss South Carolina Scholarsh
Miss Lander University, Shelley Nevins, Set to Participate in the 2023 Miss South Carolina Scholarship Organization CompetitionGreenwood, SC – Miss Lander University, Shelley Nevins, just announced her intent to participate in the 86th Annual Miss South Carolina Scholarship Organization Competition. Taking place at the Township Auditorium in Columbia, South Carolina, the Competition is set to begin on Tuesday, June 20, 2023, and will conclude with the crowning of Miss South Carolina 2023 on Saturday, June 24, 2023.After competing in the 2023 Miss Lander University competition, Miss Nevins was crowned Miss Lander University on January 30th, making her an eligible delegate to compete for the title of Miss South Carolina 2023. Miss Nevins hails from Columbia, South Carolina, and she is currently studying Business at Lander University. “I am so excited to be able to shine a light and create lifelong bonds,” said Nevins. “Each step in this process leading to the competition has allowed me to grow and I cannot wait to showcase that alongside such amazing women who demonstrate Scholarship, Service, Style, and Success.”Each delegate, including Miss Nevins, vying for the title of Miss South Carolina exemplifies all that is best in today’s modern woman. Miss South Carolina must be talented, intelligent and well-spoken, she is a leader with a strong commitment to her community, she understands the importance mental and physical health, and she is a role model for millions as a relatable “it girl” who can connect with today’s contemporary woman. We’re thrilled to welcome Shelley to Columbia for the 2023 Miss South Carolina Scholarship Organization Competition,” said Gavin J. Smith, Director of Public Relations for the Miss South Carolina Scholarship Organization. “In our 86th year of service to thousands of young ladies from all corners of the Palmetto State, we’re excited to kick off this vibrant, colorful and exciting event, and learn who will become our 2023 Miss South Carolina.”The Miss South Carolina Scholarship Organization is an official preliminary to the Miss America Competition. Often perceived as a one-night competition to the general public, the organization lends itself to much more, including being one of the largest providers of scholarships to young women in the State of South Carolina, and facilitating a forum by which ladies can express their opinions, talents, and intelligence.Participation in this program provides young women with the opportunity to promote individual social impact initiatives, gain experience through participation in interviews, talent performances, public speaking, and social/digital media interactions while serving as role models in their communities – all with the support of dedicated volunteers assisting them in their pursuit of academic excellence, service and lifelong success.Candidates within the organization compete for over $200,000 in scholarships each year made possible by local competitions and the Miss South Carolina Scholarship Foundation. They also complete over thousands of hours of community service.The Miss South Carolina Scholarship Organization operates within the guidelines of the Miss America Organization while stressing individuality, personal development, communication skills and physical and mental health.For more information on the Miss South Carolina Scholarship Organization, please visit https://miss-sc.org. For more information on the 2023 Miss South Carolina Scholarship Organization Competition, please visit https://miss-sc.org/state-competition. -TK-
Lander Names Homecoming King and Queen
Lander University announced its 2022 Homecoming King and Queen following the volleyball game in the Finis Horne Arena on Saturday, Oct. 15. Lander’s student body voted Chad Smith, a senior sociology major from Inman; and Azjanae Anderson, a senior business administration major from Columbia; as the 2022 Homecoming King and Queen. Smith was sponsored by Phi Mu Fraternity, and Anderson by Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
Seasoned Healthcare Executive Joins PTC Area Commission
Piedmont Technical College (PTC) is pleased to announce the appointment of its new Area Commissioner from Abbeville, Anita M. Butler. Retired in 2020 from Spartanburg Regional Health Care System, Butler is the former Senior Vice President of Post-Acute Services and President of Spartanburg Restorative Care. She held memberships in the American College of Healthcare Executives, the South Carolina Health Alliance, Sigma Theta Tau (the National Honor Society of Nursing), and National Association of Long-Term Hospitals. Through service on the PTC Area Commission, Butler can continue her work to promote excellence in the healthcare workforce during her post-retirement years. PTC offers 12 degree-field programs in its School of Healthcare. "As a Commissioner, I am grateful for the opportunity to share my healthcare expertise while directly participating in shaping the future of technical education in South Carolina,” Butler said. "As a retired healthcare executive, I have experienced the benefits and necessity of technical education. Hospitals and healthcare facilities cannot operate without these skilled professionals.” Butler earned her master of science in nursing from Clemson University and her bachelor of science in nursing from the University of North Carolina, Charlotte. The 12-member Commission is the governing board for the college and includes members from every county in its service area. It is a broadly diverse and intellectual group of leaders. "We are exceptionally pleased to welcome Ms. Butler to the Area Commission,” Commission Chairman Richard Cain said. "We are confident that Piedmont Technical College will benefit greatly from her distinguished record of leadership and industry experience.”
Hospice Care Foundation of the Piedmont to Host 3rd Annual “Swing Fore Hospice” Golf Tournament
Hospice & Palliative Care of the Piedmont is hosting its third annual golf tournament, "Swing Fore Hospice”. It will be held on Tuesday, October 18 th at the Greenwood Country Club. This will be a Four Person Captain’s Choice (scramble format) with an 8:30 AM or 1 PM shotgun start. To reserve your team’s spot, please complete the registration form found on our website at: https://hospicepiedmont.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/2022-Swing-Fore-Hospice-Registration-Form.pdf or contact our office at 864.227.9393. Sponsorship spots are available as well; please contact us for more information. We are excited about another great Golf Tournament! Your participation in this special event will allow us to maintain our commitment to bring comfort and support to anyone who needs it, regardless of their financial means throughout our 8-county service area. Hospice & Palliative Care of the Piedmont is your community non-profit network of care that enriches life for those with advanced illnesses. Serving Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens, McCormick, Newberry, and Saluda counties since 1981. For more information, please contact us at 864.227.93936 or visit our website at www.hospicepiedmont.org.
Drug dealer sentenced to 15 years in prison
A Greenwood man was sentenced to 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to a drug trafficking charge right before his trial was to start on Thursday morning, 8th Circuit Solicitor David M. Stumbo announced today. Antonio Lamar Gary, 41, of Greenwood, pleaded guilty to one count of trafficking heroin, which exposed him to up to 20 years in prison. A jury had already been selected on Wednesday afternoon, and pretrial motions completed, when Gary elected to change his plea from not guilty to guilty. Circuit Judge R. Keith Kelly sentenced to Gary to 15 years in prison, with no possibility of parole. Gary has a criminal history with drug related charges dating back more than two decades. The crime is classified as violent and serious under state law and Gary must serve a minimum of 85 percent. In June 2019, deputies with the Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office performed a traffic stop on a vehicle after observing no working taillights. Gary was located in the passenger seat of the vehicle. Deputies observed both Gary and the driver of the vehicle acting nervously and requested K9 "Loki,” a trained drug sniffing K-9 officer, respond to the scene. The K-9 alerted to the presence of narcotics after performing a "free-air sniff.” Deputies observed a plastic baggie with a number of small blue pills as well as bag containing a blue powder. Both men were placed under arrest and taken to the Greenwood County Detention Center. Deputy Solicitor Yates Brown and Assistant Solicitor Andre Nguyen handled the case for the state. Gary was represented by Jane Merrill of the Greenwood County Bar. Solicitor Stumbo praised the work of his staff along with investigators at the Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office, particularly K-9 "Loki,” Inv. Michael Mejia, Inv. Matthew Womack, Matthew Noblin, in securing the conviction and lengthy prison sentence. "The K-9 officers in our partner law enforcement agencies do not always get the credit they deserve, but they are a critical part of the front-line work in the war against deadly drugs on our streets,” Solicitor Stumbo said. "I am pleased to have another drug trafficker out of our community for the foreseeable future, and will continue to work with our partners in law enforcement to fight back against the wave of devastating and deadly narcotics in South Carolina.”
Greenwood County Arrest Report for Aug 22, 2022
Click here to see the Greenwood County Arrest Report for Aug 22, 2022.
Trio arrested after shooting & chase
Greenwood City Police got into a pursuit of a vehicle where several individuals were inside and believed to have been involved in a shooting incident. As they followed the vehicle onto Florida Ave, the vehicle crashed, striking a house. Three people took off running but were quickly apprehended. Unique Lamar Gibson, 21, of Greenwood is charged with Unlawful Carry of a Pistol. Javarious De'andre Cunningham, 20, of Greenwood is charged with Unlawful Carry of a Pistol Jamia Monica Cloud, 18, of Greenwood is charged with Failure to Stop for Blue Lights and Siren and Unlawful Carry of a Pistol.
Ninety Six Wildcat Angler Landon Surrett commits to the Lander University Bearcat Anglers
Ninety Six Senior Wildcat Angler Landon Surrett has committed to the Lander University Bearcat Anglers in Greenwood SC. Landon started fishing with the Ninety Six Wildcat Anglers in the 6th Grade and is now in his 7th Year of Angling and is ready to move to the next level. With over 63 plus organized tournaments under his belt to include experience on the local, state and national level, Landon is bringing a ton of experience with him to the Bearcat Anglers. Landon’s Coaches applaud his character both in the classroom and on the water.
Jessie May" Jake Baby" Burton Moates - Greenwood
Mrs. Jessie May" Jake Baby" Burton Moates, 77, of 114 Mill Rd N. Greenwood widow of Franklin Moates departed this life on January 29, 2021 at Self Regional Medical Center. She was born in Greenwood, SC December 30, 1943, a daughter of the late Willie Martin Burton and Margurite Frazier Burton. She was preceded in death by a sister Barbara Jean Burton McGrier and two brothers, William Rufus Burton and Richard Burton. Jessie attended public schools in Greenwood County and was employed as a Bus Driver at the Y.M.C.A. She was a member of Johns Creek Baptist Church where she served as a member of the Hospitality and Kitchen Committee and Pastor's Aid Ministry. Her passion was her family , friends, serving others, and assisting in the church. More
Tiller to Lead Greenwood Genetic Center Foundation
The Greenwood Genetic Center (GGC) has named William ‘Bill’ Tiller as the new Executive Director of the GGC Foundation. Tiller comes to GGC with a long and successful career in fundraising and development, working primarily in the areas of children’s health and advocacy. He has secured and directed approximately $43 million to support numerous nonprofit organizations including The Meyer Center for Special Children, Make-A-Wish Foundation of SC, and most recently served as President and CEO of the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation. "We are thrilled to have someone with Bill's experience and passion for serving families who are affected by birth defects, disabilities, and autism," said Boo Ramage, outgoing Interim Executive Director of the GGC Foundation. AdGroup20(); Ramage stepped in to temporarily lead the 501(c)3 fundraising arm of GGC last July, successfully steering the final phase of the $1.56 million ‘Journey of Discovery’ campaign that supported several innovative technologies in research and diagnostic testing. “GGC has been so fortunate to have strong philanthropic support throughout our history,” said Steve Skinner, MD, Director of GGC. “Bill brings valuable expertise as we expand our reach and advance our mission to serve families with compassion and expertise.” “I feel a deep sense of calling to the mission of GGC, and I pledge to move the mission forward with purpose and joy," said Tiller. "I look forward to working alongside GGC’s distinguished professionals, in partnership with donors and investors, and in service to the many children and families who look to GGC for comfort and care." To learn more about Tiller and the GGC Foundation, visit www.GGC.org/foundation.
Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt. Ltd will almost double production of its newly launched.
Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt. Ltd will almost double production of its newly launched the Etios sedan to prevent prospective buyers from opting for other models as the waiting period now stretches to as much as eight months. The Indian arm of Japan's Toyota Motor Corp. will start a second production shift at its Bidadi plant in Karnataka to meet growing demand, deputy managing director Sandeep Singh said. "There is nothing much that we can do with the kind of demand the Etios has generated. It has taken us by surprise," said Singh. "From April onwards, we will start second shift production at our Bidadi plant." Launched in December last year, the Etios has a waiting period of six-eight months, according to the Bangalore-based firm. With the second shift starting April, the company hopes to reduce this to three-four months."Currently we produce at least 2,500 units a month, but the demand is of around 7,000 units. It is quite difficult to bridge that gap in a quick time," said Singh. Production will be raised to 4,500-5,000, he added. The Etios, priced at below '5 lakh in an aggressive bid to enter the mass market, received 3,077 bookings in two days after its launch. The company said it has bookings for about 18,000 Etios cars. The company's second India plant, which is located in Bidadi, and cost '3,200 crore, has an annual capacity of 70,000 vehicles. Production began at Bidadi in December last year. "A long waiting period for the Etios may compel buyers to move to rival brands. It will have to act fast," said Akshay Bhalla, managing director, Protiviti Consulting Pvt. Ltd. The car is pitched against other entry-level sedans such as Maruti Suzuki India Ltd's Dzire and Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd's Logan. "We have our plans in place, which will yield results in the coming years," Singh said, without elaborating. "A lot of the focus will be on localization."