Today, Sheriff T.C. Smalls of Hampton County excitedly announced the 2016-17 Fall Membership Drive for the South Carolina Sheriffs’ Association is underway. Sheriff Smalls went on to explain that he is an active member of the South Carolina Sheriffs’ Association and invited the citizens of Hampton County to join the Association as an Honorary Member.

The South Carolina Sheriffs’ Association provides aggressive advocacy using the strong unified voice of South Carolina’s 46 elected Sheriffs. The Association is a key player in shaping state policy on public safety and crime prevention, as well as providing critical training to Sheriffs’ teams. “With government funding becoming increasingly difficult to secure, the membership drive has taken on greater importance than it ever has before”, said Sheriff Smalls. “The funding is vital to help us carry out our mission of making our communities safer places to live, work, and play.”

Membership appeals will be sent out through a direct mail piece over the coming days. Individuals choosing to join the voluntary program can do so for as little as $25, while businesses can show their support for a $50 contribution. The funding provides critically important technical resources, training and legislative support on key criminal justice issues. It is important note that contributions are tax deductible.

“I realize that everyone does not have the ability or desire to become an Honorary Member of the South Carolina Sheriffs’ Association”, said Sheriff Smalls. He went on to say, “Rest assured that your ability to join this reputable organization will not impact the level of service you receive from my office. I would simply ask you to consider joining the South Carolina Sheriffs’ Association as an Honorary Member if you have the means and are so inclined.”

Individuals that do not receive a membership appeal and would like more information can contact the South Carolina Sheriffs’ Association at by phone at (803) 772-1101 or online at www.sheriffsc.com. They can also be reached by mail at 112 Westpark Blvd., Columbia, SC 29210.

Sheriff Smalls would like to remind everyone that the South Carolina Sheriffs’ Association does not solicit via telemarketing. If you receive a phone call from someone claiming to be calling on behalf of the South Carolina Sheriffs’ Association, know that it is fraudulent and hang up.

In closing, Sheriff Smalls would like to encourage the citizens of Hampton County to partner with the South Carolina Sheriffs’ Association to “help fight for safer places to live, work, and play!”

Ben Hazel Honor Roll

1st  Nine Weeks

First Grade

Principal

Aaryona Anderson

Elijah Ayers

Trinity Cohen

Kinley Cook

Ariel Houston

Madyson Johnson

Ryder Lloyd

Cleavon Maxwell

John Aden McAbee

Jayla McQuire

Braydon Middleton

Owen Shaffer

A/B Honor Roll

                             Eli Ashley                                 Ashlynn Freeman

                            Jaylin Badger                            Ma’Kaiya Fuller

                            Law Bennett                              Sara Michela Guty

                            Landon Bostick                         Elijah Jenkins

                            Tripp Brown                               Lyanna Lykes

                            Walker Crapse                          C.J.McCall

                            Tyreese Crosson                      Cooper Mixson

                            Maya Davis                               A’London Owens

                            Abby Deloach                           Carter Parnell

                            Dawson Deloach                      Makayla Russell

                            Joshua Evans                           Kaden Simmons

                           DeQuawn Williams

Ben Hazel Honor Roll

1st  Nine Weeks

Second grade

Principal

James Bostick                         Zoey Kearse

Zienne Brown                          Justice Kelly

Gavin Clackum                       Joshua Knox

Raelynn Clackum                    Sawyer Oldfield

Ja’Niah Davis                         Raj Padigela

Kadyn Davis                           Reese Poston

Karter Green                           Miller Rainwater

Taylor Harris                          Jada Rodgers

Leslie Hutto                                      Wylder Vaughn

Ranya James                           Ryan Veach

A/B Honor Roll

                             Mekhi Billups                          Ayden Mosley

                             Jay Bishop                              Cherish Orr

                             Nasir Gadson                          Alaya Perry-Butler

                             McKinnen Geiser                     Tysean Robinson

                             Ariel Grant                              Keondre Roden

                             Allison Harvey                        Paris Sanders

                             Jaidyn Heyward                      Glen Sauls

                             Logan Hiers                            Addieson Segars

                             Kendall Kinard                        Jaden Smith

                             Ansley Lynch                          Kemara Vaughan

                             Kya McQuire                           Charles Williams

Ben Hazel Honor Roll

1st  Nine Weeks

Third Grade

Principal

    Shakur Bing

    Jordan Nelson

A/B Honor Roll

Braydon Blake

Nickolas Bushman

Alexander Buzzell

Nicholas Connor

Jordan Green

Terrance Green

Taryn Hanna

Dadreana Johnson

Connor Murdaugh

Landon Terry

Kenneth Warren

Justin Whittington

Students at North District Middle School were carefree until the curtains were drawn back and the jail cell within the Mattie C. Stewart Foundation “Choice Bus” was unveiled Nov. 16. As well as a stop at NDMS, the bus stopped at Wade Hampton High School the following day.

Traveling across the U.S., the “Choice Bus” is an educational tool meant to motivate students to focus on their studies and strive to make positive choices throughout life. The jail cell constructed in the back half of the bus is used to grab the attention of students after they are given a 25-minute presentation which describes the perils of dropping out of school.

Students also learned the value of choosing friends wisely, how to avoid being associated with a street gang and the importance of being respectful of others. Since 2008, the bus program has visited two million students in 21 states.

Lecturers highlighted that 75 percent of prison inmates are high school dropouts. As well as the heightened risk of incarceration, lecturers informed students a high school graduate will make a million dollars more in their lifetime than those without a diploma.   

“When students board the “Choice Bus”, they get to experience what life is actually like from two different points of view. It helps student dig deep into thinking about their futures based on the decisions they will make,” said Sherri Stewart, executive director of the Mattie C. Stewart Foundation. “Connecting education to future lifetime earning potential and career goals is what we strive to encourage.”

“We are proud to work with State Farm to spread the message of education to South Carolina,” said Dr. Shelley Stewart, founder and president of the Mattie C. Stewart Foundation. “Illustrating to students the uncut vision of what poor choices leads to can help them think about their actions. Our mission is to continue spreading the power of education to our youth across the nation.”

Through generous contributions made by the Huspah Baptist Church, all employees of former Westinghouse, International Paper and Nevamar are invited to take part in a Christmas dinner on Dec. 10, beginning at 1 p.m.

Jokes, past experiences, speeches and good times will be had by all, say organizers, and children and families are welcome. Those planning on attending are asked to bring meat dishes, vegetable dishes, sides, refreshments and desserts.

“We have always provided for our own,” said Ronald Winn. Winn went on to say that, without the help of the Huspah Baptist Church, the event would not occur.

As well as food and laughter, Tim Graves provide music for dancing during the afternoon. For more information or to find out how you can volunteer to help decorate for the event, contact Ronald Winn at 803-943-2344.

COLUMBIA, S.C. (Tuesday, Nov. 29) – Just two weeks remain for Hurricane Matthew survivors in South Carolina to register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and submit disaster loan applications to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

The last day for survivors to register for federal disaster assistance is Tuesday, December 13.

Survivors can register online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by phone at 800-621-3362 (voice, 711 or video relay service) or 800-462-7585 (TTY). The toll-free lines are open 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week until further notice. Multilingual operators are available.

Disaster assistance from FEMA may include grants for homeowners or renters to help pay for temporary housing, essential home repairs, personal property replacement and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance or other sources.

The SBA offers low-interest disaster loans to businesses of all sizes (including landlords), private non-profit organizations, homeowners and renters. SBA loans help fund repair or rebuilding efforts and cover the cost of replacing lost or disaster-damaged personal property.

The last day to file an SBA disaster loan application for physical damage is Tuesday, Dec. 13.

Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) from the SBA are available to small businesses and private-nonprofits to assist with working capital needs as a direct result of the disaster.

The last day to apply for an EIDL loan from the SBA is July 12, 2017.

Survivors should register now with FEMA even if they have insurance. FEMA cannot duplicate insurance benefits, but it may be able to help with uninsured or under-insured losses.

Flood insurance policyholders who have questions about their flood insurance policy and coverage should call the National Flood Insurance Program at 800-621-3362 (Option 2) between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Specialists can help with service claims, provide general information regarding polices and offer technical assistance to aid in recovery.

After registering for disaster assistance, Hurricane Matthew survivors with questions may call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (voice, 711 or video relay service) or 800-462-7585 (TTY). Callers also may check the status of the application, update their contact information or respond to a letter from FEMA.

Hurricane Matthew survivors in South Carolina may qualify for federal assistance if they live in one of these disaster-designated counties: Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Berkeley, Calhoun, Charleston, Chesterfield, Clarendon, Colleton, Darlington, Dillon, Dorchester, Florence, Georgetown, Hampton, Horry, Jasper, Lee, Marion, Marlboro, Orangeburg, Sumter andWilliamsburg.

For more information about the disaster recovery operation, visit fema.gov/disaster/4286 scemd.org/recovery-section/iaor the South Carolina Emergency Management Division at .

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All FEMA disaster assistance will be provided without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, sex (including sexual harassment), religion, national origin, age, disability, limited English proficiency, economic status, or retaliation. If you believe your civil rights are being violated, call 800-621-3362 or 800-462-7585(TTY/TDD).

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards. Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/femaregion4http://blog.fema.govand the FEMA Blog at .

The SBA is the federal government’s primary source of money for the long-term rebuilding of disaster-damaged private property. SBA helps businesses of all sizes, private non-profit organizations, homeowners and renters fund repairs or rebuilding efforts and cover the cost of replacing lost or disaster-damaged personal property. These disaster loans cover losses not fully compensated by insurance or other recoveries and do not duplicate benefits of other agencies or organizations. For more information, applicants may contact SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center by calling 800-659-2955, emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.govwww.sba.gov/disaster, or visiting SBA’s website at . Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals may call 800-877-8339.

Hampton County Sheriff T.C. Smalls informed the Hampton School District 1 Board of Trustees that his office will be the recipient of a $421,497 grant that will enable a School Resource Officer presence in all schools.

Currently, only Wade Hampton High School and North District Middle School have a Resource Officer. With the new grant, three employees can be hired or assigned to each school in the district, thereby increasing school safety in all schools. Superintendent of Schools, Ron Wilcox, said, “The Board and I appreciate Sheriff Smalls. We are grateful to hear the news about additional availability of Resource Officers. We will all feel safer with the additional officer presence. It is good to know our outlying schools will have officers available for additional protection.”

This grant will allow additional educational programs to be offered to our children, such as: Community Policing, which promotes awareness for the need of safe communities; Explorer Post, which trains students to become future officers; the D.A.R.E. Program, a drug resistance program; and the G.R.E.A.T Program, a program designed to educate students about gang violence.

Sheriff Smalls said, “These officers will allow my office to better serve all schools. We want to protect our children. We will be able to react more quickly to events and have an on-the-school-site presence. Officers will be selected and assigned in the next few days.”

The Town of Hampton voted to purchase the L & L Trailer Park lot on Holly Street Extension for $16,925.58 during a town hall meeting Nov. 15. The town will also pay to clear the lot before solar company Sothern Solar leases the lot for a period of 10 years.

The town was able to purchase the dilapidated lot through the Forfeited Land Commission. Council member Pete Hagood motioned to accept the motion. The motion passed unanimously to purchase the lot. The motion to lease the land to Sothern Solar also passed with a unanimous vote.

A portion of the electricity produced by the solar farm will be sold to the Lowcountry Regional Water System’s treatment plant. No information was given as to how much money the town will lease the property to Southern Solar for.

Company2

Quincy Jones of Company2, in Varnville, approached town council seeking support regarding his bid to gain access to the Hampton County Airport for the testing of his airport firefighting trucks. Jones was recently asked by the Hampton County Airport Commission to cease his usage of the airport runway adjacent to his business.

Jones told council he recently lost a $4.1 million dollar contract to supply his trucks. He and several of his employees attended the meeting. One employee stated “I like my job here and I want it to continue.”

“They are contributing something and the airport is contributing nothing,” said Councilman Pete Mixson. “I think we should support them [Company2].”

“It’s not a safe landing place,” said council member Anna Sue Rivers. “It scares me just to ride out there she said.” She went on to describe what she believed to be unsafe runway conditions due to debris at the Hampton County Airport.

HPD officer resigns

Town of Hampton Police Chief Perry McAlhaney offered kind words of support on behalf of HPD officer Rhett Long. Long will be leaving Hampton to begin employment at the Savannah River Site in the coming weeks.

“That man is worth his weight in gold,” said Hagood. Long is one of the top two traffic enforcement officers at HPD. Long’s resignation was accepted by a unanimous vote.

In other Hampton Town Council news:

• Town council voted unanimously to purchase a $295 advertisement in the upcoming Hampton County Chamber of Commerce map.

Tanya L. Edwards Thomas, daughter of Elaine Dobson-Faison and the late Leroy Edwards, recently received her diploma from the University of California, Los Angeles, The John E. Anderson Graduate School of Management Atlanta UCLA Head Start Management Fellows Program.  This program provides distinguished leadership and management development training for Head Start administrators.

During the final class, Ms. Thomas presented the Agency Head Start Program’s Management Improvement Plan to Yasmina S. Vinci, National Head Start Association Executive Director, and also to Dr. Blanca Enriquez, Office of Head Start Director, and Al Osbourne, Senior Associate Dean of UCLA Anderson, UCLA HS Fellows Peers, and Supervisors.

Thomas resides in Valdosta, Georgia, with her husband, Alex.  They have two sons and one granddaughter.

For security's sake this holiday season, Palmetto Electric Cooperative is reminding the public of how to avoid scams perpetrated either on the telephone or in person.

President and CEO Berl Davis says alert co-op members have reported both types of scamming in recent days. In the telephone scam, the caller poses as a representative of Palmetto Electric. The scam caller states that immediate payment is needed to avoid disconnection of electric service. 

As Davis notes, "Don't give out credit card numbers and personal information on the phone, through the mail or over the Internet unless you've initiated the contact or are sure you know who you're dealing with." If a member receives a suspicious call, mailing, email or other type of unusual contact, the member should end the call immediately and contact local law enforcement.

He said co-op members also have reported being approached by individuals who falsely claimed to be with the cooperative. Davis said members can easily identify cooperative employees.  “Co-op employees will always be wearing a Palmetto Electric Cooperative uniform and/or driving a co-op vehicle with our name and official logo on it. They will be glad to show photo identification to anyone who requests it,” says Davis.

The cooperative sometimes hires other companies, including contract utility crews, to perform certain tasks, such as right-of-way maintenance, line construction and pole inspections. These workers should not need to enter a member’s home or business or request information from a member. 

Members can call the cooperative at 843-208-5551 if they have questions about their account or if they receive a suspicious call.  Customer service representatives can help confirm a billing payment and balance due on a member’s account. They can also verify that workers are Palmetto Electric employees or contract labor working for the co-op.

In Estill, a small group of local citizens has embraced a new opportunity to make a positive contribution to the community through involvement with the South Carolina Arts Commission.

 For several months, Audrey Hopkins-Williams has been leading a team of individuals to consider which issues local citizens face and how arts and culture might be incorporated to address one or more of those challenges. Last spring, when the South Carolina Arts Commission reached out about a pilot program, The Art of Community: Rural S.C., Hopkins-Williams answered the call. Today, as part of the Art of Community initiative, she and her team are celebrating the creation of a plan to add arts and culture to the Estill Nature Walking Trail and engage more citizens in use of the park. 

 “We know that this park is an asset and that health concerns are major concerns here,” she said. “We asked ourselves, ‘can we add some elements to the park that will get people here and help them become more active?’” Hopkins-Williams and her team are considering the variety of ingredients that may fit the bill—from a performance series featuring storytellers to new play equipment that encourages creativity in children. “We don’t have all the answers yet, but we are looking at what keeps people from using the park. What can change the dynamic?”

 To aid in the development of the arts and culture “ingredients,” the South Carolina Arts Commission made a $1,000 award to help the local team design the project and solicit additional funds. Hopkins-Williams presented information to the Town Council last month about the award.

“We are also pleased to have donations from the Martin Funeral Home of Estill, the Hampton County Sheriff’s Department, Maude Saunders of Gordon Logging Company and Mt. Moriah Worship Center of Furman,” she said. “We have just begun to see how the arts make change in communities—already we are being more creative in planning this project and getting people involved in the process.”  

  The Estill team includes Jackie Hopkins, Maude Saunders, Loretta B. Beckett, Vonzetta Strong and Egeria Bostick. While Hopkins-Williams is serving as the “maven,” or connector, for Hampton County, five additional leaders were identified to serve as team mavens in Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Colleton and Jasper counties. Since June, these leaders and their team members have participated in a series of regional meetings.

 “We are so happy to know more citizens of Hampton County through this project,” South Carolina Arts Commission Program Director Susan DuPlessis said. “Not only have we built new relationships within Estill, we are also building a regional network of citizens who are community builders. We are

exploring ways that arts and culture can be used to engage people, to rediscover each community’s assets, and to build on those assets.”

 Part of the strength of the Art of Community is its connectivity both within the state and beyond. The initiative is informed by a committee of 24 advisors who hail from around the country and from within South Carolina. Dr. Ann Carmichael, dean of USC Salkehatchie, and John Robert “Bob” Reeder co-chair the advisory committee.

“This initiative is an example of how a state arts commission re-imagines arts and culture within the communities they serve,” said Reeder, a native of Rock Hill, S.C., and program director for Rural LISC, a national community development intermediary working in 44 states. “This effort is being recognized nationally as innovative. Its unique approach—starting with the partnership between a state arts agency and a Promise Zone—is getting well-deserved attention and building new relationships and engagement within small communities.”

The Arts Commission received funding from USDA Rural to start this program in South Carolina’s rural Promise Zone in 2015. “As an official partner of the Promise Zone effort and as investors in South Carolina communities through grants, assistance and programming, we are extremely interested in challenges our communities face,” said Ken May, South Carolina Arts Commission executive director. The range of community development issues that have been discussed include health, housing, transportation, safety, environment, economic and workforce development and education. The initiative has also asked the participants to identify what makes them proud of their communities.

“This begins with ‘what works,’ ‘what characteristics do you love about your town,’ and ‘what makes you feel connected.’ The best part is that we are working with the community teams—what happens is born out of local ideas and creativity. It’s exciting and inspiring to watch,” said May.

 Hopkins-Williams advises her local community to “stay tuned. We’re on it!”  

Anyone interested in becoming part of the local team should call Audrey Hopkins-Williams at 843-943-8591. Upcoming meetings are scheduled for December.

About the South Carolina Arts Commission:
The South Carolina Arts Commission is the state agency charged with creating a thriving arts environment that benefits all South Carolinians, regardless of their location or circumstances. Created by the South Carolina General Assembly in 1967, the Arts Commission works to increase public participation in the arts by providing services, grants and leadership initiatives in three areas: arts education, community development and artist development. Headquartered in Columbia, S.C., the Arts Commission is funded by the state of South Carolina, by the federal government through the National Endowment for the Arts and other sources. For more information, visit www.SouthCarolinaArts.com or call (803) 734-8696.

COLUMBIA, S.C. - Eleven communities from across South Carolina are slated to benefit from public improvement projects supported by more than $4.3 million in funds from the latest round of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. The S.C. Department of Commerce is awarding CDBG funds to these communities, representing more than 26,600 residents, for the following projects:

City of Denmark -- Highway 321 Streetscape Improvements

$500,000

Town of Edgefield -- Courthouse Square Streetscape Improvements

$447,088

City of Georgetown -- Fire Truck

$500,000

City of Greenwood -- Mineral Court Apartments Demolition

$500,000

Hampton County -- Furman / Yemassee Fire Trucks

$500,000

Town of Iva -- E. Front /E. Green Streetscape Improvements

$323,585

City of Pickens -- Pickens Rail Depot Demolition

$169,790

Town of Ware Shoals -- Fairview Avenue Apartments Demolition

$228,670

City of Beaufort -- Greenlawn Neighborhood Revitalization

$500,000

Colleton County -- Gadsden Loop Neighborhood Revitalization

$483,502

City of Gaffney -- Tank Branch Neighborhood Revitalization

$229,000

"The CDBG program continues to be a powerful tool in our economic development arsenal, allowing local communities to offer the best quality of life possible," said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt. "Businesses don't locate to states or regions but, rather, to communities. And, that is why the CDBG program is essential to attracting new investment to communities in all corners of South Carolina."

S.C. Commerce awards CDBG funds in the fall and the spring of each year. Selected through a statewide competitive process, local governments receiving CDBG funds are required to provide at least a 10 percent match in funding to complete the projects. Grant funds are allocated on an annual basis to South Carolina from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and S.C. Commerce administers the CDBG program on the state's behalf. CDBG assists communities in providing housing, a suitable living environment and expanded economic opportunities.

All grants awarded through the CDBG program must meet at least one of three objectives:

• Benefit LMI (low- to moderate-income) persons.
• Aid in the prevention or elimination of slums and blighting conditions.
• Meet other urgent community development needs where existing conditions pose a serious and immediate threat to public health and welfare, and where other financial resources are not readily available to meet such needs.

For additional information on South Carolina's CDBG program, including application guidelines and frequently asked questions, please visit www.cdbgsc.com.

About S.C. Department of Commerce

As South Carolina's leading economic development agency, the Department of Commerce works to recruit new businesses and help existing business grow. Commerce has recruited world-class companies to South Carolina such as BMW, Boeing, Continental, Giti Tire, LPL Financial Holdings, Mercedes-Benz Vans, Toray and Volvo Cars and also supports startups, small and existing business, innovation and rural development initiatives. Commerce partners with the S.C. Technical College System via readySC to support workforce training and recruiting, and with the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce, which provides worker training and employment opportunities within the state. IBM-Plant Location International reports in 2012, 2013 and 2015 ranked South Carolina first in the nation for attracting jobs through foreign investment. The state won the Gold Shovel Award and the Project of Year Award from Area Development magazine in 2012, 2014 and 2015. For more information, visit www.SCcommerce.com.

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Hampton County Administrator Rose Dobson-Elliot announced during Monday’s Hampton County Council meeting that the county has received confirmation that $500,000 will be provided by Community Development Block Grant funding for the purchase of a new fire truck to serve the towns of Yemassee and Furman.  This will be the first new fire truck Hampton County has received in seven years, said Hampton County Fire Chief Greg Cook and Dobson-Elliot.

The news of the new truck was met with applause by officials and the audience members. The new truck will help keep residents safe, as well as benefit the county during ISO insurance reviews. One of the reasons certain areas of the county have had higher-than-average fire insurance premiums has been because of the need of an additional truck.

Dobson-Elliot credited the Lowcountry Council of Governments for their assistance in helping the county receive the funds, as well as Chief Cook and his men for their hard work.

SCA representative speaks about Promise Zone

Dean Van Pelt, of the SouthernCarolina Alliance, informed Hampton County Council Nov. 20 of the organization’s continuing involvement in the Federal Promise Zone program and partnerships with organizations involved in Promise Zone programs. He informed council of Connect South Carolina’s intent to bring increased broadband internet connectivity to the Lowcountry of South Carolina.  

He stated nearly 40 percent of Hampton County residents have access to broadband internet access. The areas which will most benefit from increased broadband access are areas several miles away from main roadways.

According to Connect South Carolina's website, the non-profit organization’s mission is to increase high-speed Internet access, adoption and use to diversify the economy and ensure South Carolina's competitiveness in the connected global economy of the 21st Century, the website states.

Connect South Carolina was commissioned by the Office of the Governor to work with each of the state's broadband providers to create detailed maps of broadband coverage and to assess the current state of broadband adoption, community-by-community, across South Carolina.  

Connect South Carolina will continue to develop and update broadband data over time, ensuring state policymakers and citizens alike are equipped with important information.  Connect South Carolina's efforts are funded by the United States Department of Commerce's State Broadband Initiative (SBI) Grant Program through the National Telecommunications and Information Administration.  More information is available at www.broadbandusa.gov.

“Rural and Tribal areas face unique challenges and we are ready to take on those challenges with creative solutions that strengthen communities,” said USDA Secretary Vilsack.  “The Promise Zone initiative delivers proven results by encouraging collaboration between the federal government, community organizations, the private sector and state and local governments. Through these partnerships, we are supporting jobs and economic opportunities that enable rural areas to thrive.”

The SCA representative also informed council of the SCA’s plan to bring a forensics crime lab to the area to serve the six counties which fall under the SC Promise Zone declaration in the future. Furthermore, the SCA will look to bring additional technical colleges to the six-county region in which they serve.  

District 2 Financial Update

Scott Allen, Hampton School District 2 Financial Advisor, informed the county council that District 2’s finances continue to remain in good standing. According to Allen, the district’s finances are slowly dwindling, which is to be expected nearing the end of the fiscal year. However, the district has $200,000 remaining in the debt services fund. Allen went on to inform council District 2 will have no need to borrow any money from their general fund to cover any expenses.

Allen also informed council of the district’s desire to purchase a new accounting system. Currently, the outdated system the district uses is extremely time intensive for employees. As well as saving district employees hours, the new paperless accounting equipment will save the district money with regards to paper and printing costs.

The new system would cost the district $79,000, said Allen. He was asked by council if the districts purchase of a new accounting system would negatively affect its ability to repay a loan from the county. He stated the purchase would not affect the loan payback. The cost of the accounting system will be repaid over several years. 

In other county council meeting news:

• County Chairman Shedron Williams informed those who attended the meeting the county was currently in the process of collecting delinquent business taxes.
• Councilman-elect Ronald Winn asked questions regarding school taxes and millage rates during the public comments portion of the meeting. Councilman Charles “Buddy” Phillips noted school districts set their own rates and can raise or lower the millage rates after a special referendum is held. “We are just the collectors,” Williams told Winn.
• Williams stated he would like an Ad Hoc committee to be formed in the future to research current county employee salaries.
• Dobson-Elliot informed council fuel tanks have been installed at the Hampton County Airport and fuel suppliers were being researched.
• Quincy Jones of Company2, of Varnville, approached council seeking permission to test large airport fire trucks on the H.C. Airport runway. Jones will attend the next county council meeting for a response from council.

United Public Health Services is sponsoring a Brantley Family Community Fundraiser on Saturday, Dec. 10 at the Bull Durham Building, Estill from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m.  Activities offered for a donation include: 1-hour Zumba Fitness Session (minimum $5 donation), blood pressure screening, glucose screening and body mass index (BMI) screening.  Zumba Fitness will be held from 9:15-10:15 a.m.  Refreshments will be available for purchase.

ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration is advising businesses of all sizes, private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters not to miss out on the opportunity to obtain a low-interest disaster loan for physical damage due to Hurricane Matthew.  There is no cost to apply, or any obligation to take the loan if it is offered.  The deadline to apply is Dec. 13, 2016. 

“Currently, 855 disaster loans have been approved in the amount of $29,094,900 for affected survivors,” said Frank Skaggs, director of SBA’s Field Operations Center East in Atlanta.  “We are pleased to get these loans approved so residents in the disaster area can start to rebuild and resume their normal lives. I encourage anyone who has not submitted an SBA disaster loan application to do so before the deadline.”

Interest rates are as low as 4 percent for businesses, 2.625 percent for private nonprofit organizations, and 1.563 percent for homeowners and renters.  Loan terms can be up to 30 years.  Applicants may be eligible for a loan amount increase up to 20 percent of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA for mitigation purposes.  Eligible mitigation improvements may include a safe room or storm shelter to help protect property and occupants from future damage caused by a similar disaster, or sump pumps, seawalls, relocation of utilities and elevation.

To be considered for all forms of disaster assistance, applicants should register online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA mobile app.  If online or mobile access is unavailable, applicants should call the FEMA toll-free helpline at 800-621-3362. Those who use
711-Relay or Video Relay Services should call 800-621-3362.

Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.  Disaster loan information and application forms may also be obtained by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 for the deaf and hard-of-hearing) or by sending an email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.

Loan applications can be downloaded from www.sba.gov/disaster.  Completed applications can be returned to a recovery center or mailed to: U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.

The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is Dec. 13, 2016. 
The deadline to return economic injury applications is July 12, 2017.

The Rotary Club of Hampton County had their first Oyster Roast in January 2016 to raise money to go towards literacy needs in Hampton County schools.  With the proceeds from this fundraiser and the help of a District Simplified Matching Grant in the amount of $3,000, the Rotary Club of Hampton was able to furnish almost $8,000 of materials to the K-5 grade level classes. 

This was done with help from Rotarians that assisted with the fundraiser and by applying for grant funds through Rotary District 7770.   Project committee members contacted the teachers at this level and allocated the amount that was available per school (based on size).  The list of books, items, and other materials that would best help them promote and enhance literacy in our young people was then submitted to the Rotary Club.   These materials were delivered by Rotarians with the last of the materials being delivered mid- October after a brief delay due to Hurricane Matthew.

“This truly was an exciting project to personally chair and to be able to go straight to the source of the needs, the teachers,” said Debbie Bishop Phillips, president and Literacy Committee chair. “They (teachers and staff) also wanted to be sure to pass on their thanks to the Rotary Club and to those that supported the fundraising efforts and express their sincere appreciation! That also extends to those that bought Oyster Roast tickets because, without you, there would not have been a project.”

The Hampton County Department of Social Services is seeking your help in the 2016 “Fill the Stocking Campaign” for the Christmas holiday season. Your past contributions afforded many families and children to have a joyful Christmas holiday season. We are seeking your help once again to be a part of making a child’s Christmas a memorable one.

Please deliver your items to the Hampton County Department of Social Services between Dec. 12 and Dec. 20. If for any reason you are unable to deliver the items, you may contact Mrs. Katherine W. Rivers, or Mrs. Evon Williams, at (803) 943-3642. We are excited about this year’s campaign and look forward to your joining us.

Thanking you in advance, Evon R. Williams, Senior Child Welfare Specialist, and Katherine W. Rivers, Human Service Coordinator I.

Shoppers

• Use caution while driving (Defensive Driving)
• Travel at lower speeds through parking lots (Pedestrians & Children)
• Travel in groups 
• Park in well lit areas
• Be aware of your surroundings 
• Have keys out to unlock your doors 
• Check your vehicle before entering 
• Avoid large purses (Money clips/card holders)
• Keep your wallet in your front pocket 
• Keep your children in your sight at all times
• Make your large purchases last (Electronics, TV's, etc)
• Do not leave purchases exposed in your vehicle

Residents

• Do not place boxes on the street for pickup 
• Destroy or dispose of boxes 
• Do not leave exposed items in your vehicle overnight (Purchases/Purses)
• Keep the doors to your residence and vehicle locked
• Report any suspicious activity or people to law enforcement 
• Do not open your door to strangers 
• Do not give out your personal information to any (Especially over the phone)

Businesses 

• Report suspicious activity and people immediately to law enforcement 
• Request law enforcement for security inspections periodically 
• Do not keep large amounts of cash in your register (Constant money drops in the safe) 
• Request escorts at opening and closing 
• Inspect/mark all money for counterfeiting 
• If possible employ off-duty officers as a deterrent 

A joyous and emotional Hampton County School District 1 board meeting was held 9 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 6 at the district’s central office in Varnville. Two long-time board members, Eugene Jenkins and Theodore Murdaugh, will be leaving their seats behind as recently elected members begin their terms.

“I can’t think of any other word to describe these men but the word ‘class’,” said Brunson Elementary and Ben Hazel Primary School principal Greg Ackerman. “I’ve enjoyed working with both of you.”  

“You have always had that smile,” Libby Murdaugh told Eugene Jenkins. She thanked both men for their service and dedication to the district.

“This year marks the 50th year I’ve known both of these men,” said board member Phillip Strother. Strother described his admiration for them both and their different, but equally effective, leadership styles. He went on to explain he learned a great deal from both men during his time working alongside them.

“Mr. Murdaugh, we can start back fishing; and Eugene we have to teach you how to fish,” said Strother lightheartedly.

Superintendent Dr. Ronald Wilcox and board member Hannah Priester also thanked the men, as well as several district employees and principals who spoke highly of both and shared stories of past experiences. 

“You’ve done more for me than I have done for you,” said Murdaugh. Murdaugh thanked all who spoke for their kind words and urged parents to participate in Wilcox’s district foundation, which he claimed is a terrific way to help the district.

“It’s been a pleasure over the years working with such a school staff as we have in our district. I love all of you and if I can be of any service at any time, please let me know,” stated Jenkins. “I will always remember y’all as one big family here at Hampton District 1.”

Discussing the possibility of running into past students and old friends, Murdaugh said “If you see me and I don’t say anything to you, say something to me. You’re the young person, you can’t expect me to recognize you; I might not even know you anymore,” he said to laughs as he poked fun of his turning 83 in the spring.

Brunson house demolition

Board members discussed the demolition of a home/storage building the district owns in Brunson. During past meetings, Dr. Wilcox has spoken of approaching the local prison to obtain prisoners to conduct the demolition of the building. Dr. Wilcox informed the board he spoke with officials with the prison and they informed him they would not be able to demolish the home due to safety concerns. Dr. Wilcox will now approach the Hampton County Sheriff’s Office seeking trustees to conduct the demolition.

If the district does not reach an agreement with the HCSO, the district will be forced to pay for the demolition of the building. There have been no bids made by construction companies on the demolition job as of the Tuesday meeting.  

Adult Education

Hampton County District 1 Adult Education courses have found a new home in Varnville. Dr. Wilcox informed the board he had spoken with Varnville’s Mayor Nat Schaffer and come to an agreement to lease the old town hall building for $1,000 per month, beginning in July 2017. Schaffer had asked for $1,300, but was negotiated down. Board member Hannah Priester suggested the contract be negotiated down even further, if Schaffer agrees, to $850.

The motion to move forward with the leasing of the former Varnville Town Hall building, and to host Adult Education classes there, passed by an unanimous vote by the board.

Steve Crosby recognized

As well as Jenkins and Murdaugh, building construction teacher Steve Crosby was given a special moment and recognition for his service to the district. Crosby was given a plague for his work helping with the ongoing renovation process taking place at the Wade Hampton High School.

Crosby has helped hang sheet rock in the school’s gymnasium, as well as overseeing the laying of tile flooring and various painting projects performed by students.

COLUMBIA, SC - R+L Carriers, a global logistics and shipping company, is expanding its current footprint in Hampton County. To accommodate its continued growth, the company will be investing $7 million in the project, creating 25 new jobs.

Formed in 1965, R+L Carriers has grown from a single-truck company into a fleet of 13,000 vehicles and is now a global logistics and shipping company. R+L serves all 50 states, along with Canada, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. Offering a variety of shipping services, the company's freight services include options for LTL (less than a truck load), truckload, logistics, warehousing and more. When shipping, R+L also has freight service options to guarantee delivery via air service, rail service and sea service.

To expand its current operations in Yemassee, S.C., the company plans to construct a new 50,000-square-foot distribution terminal on S.C. Highway 68. Hiring for the new positions is projected to begin in 2017, and interested applicants should visit www.rlcarriers.com for more information.

 The Coordinating Council for Economic Development awarded a $100,000 Rural Infrastructure Fund grant to Hampton County to assist with the costs of real property improvements.

Reactions from officials

 "We look forward to growing our company in Hampton County, and we appreciate the support from our county council, SouthernCarolina Alliance and the S.C. Department of Commerce. We are pleased to be able to create new jobs and investment in our community as we continue to provide value and quality to our customers."-R+L Carriers Vice President Jeff Haungs

 "Today's announcement by R+L Carriers is another testament to the competitive business environment that South Carolina has to offer. We're thrilled to see one of our existing companies succeed to the point that its able to grow here, and congratulate R+L's leadership on its decision to continue to invest in South Carolina and our people."-Gov. Nikki Haley

 "Team South Carolina remains steadfast in its effort to provide an unmatched logistics network, so we can continue to support the growth of these kinds of businesses. It is great to see R+L Carriers expand their operations, and we congratulate them on their continued success."-Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt

 "We congratulate R+L Carriers on their success and growth in Hampton County. We appreciate the job creation and investment that they are making through their expansion. Our county council looks forward to working with companies like R+L Carriers to provide the most business-friendly environment for continued job creation and expansion."-Hampton County Council Chairman Shedron Williams

 "SouthernCarolina Alliance welcomes the expansion of R+L Carriers in Hampton County, and we will continue to support their operation in any way that we can. Each of the 25 jobs created by this expansion changes the outlook for a family in our region and stimulates our regional economy. We are truly grateful that R+L Carriers has once again chosen to grow their business in our region."-SouthernCarolina Alliance Chairman Buddy Phillips

"R+L Carriers is a great company that has been an asset to our local economy, all the while growing into a global logistics operation. Their success is a testament to the workforce and great location that Hampton County provides to businesses. We applaud them for their accomplishments, and we are thankful for the investment and the addition of 25 jobs at the new facility."-Hampton County Economic Development Committee Chairman Bill Hager

FIVE FAST FACTS

• R+L Carriers is building a new distribution center in Hampton County.
• $7 million investment to create 25 jobs.
• R+L Carriers is a global logistics and shipping company serving all 50 states, along with Canada, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic.
• The company will be constructing a 50,000-square-foot distribution terminal in Yemassee, S.C.
• Hiring for the new positions will begin in 2017, and interested applicants should visitwww.rlcarriers.com.