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Wednesday, April 18, 2012

The Ridge stands up to cancer

BY JOSIE RODGERS
Contributor

FROM THE MAYORS DESK

Town Council met April 2 at Town Hall. Present were Councilman Capers Asbill, Councilwoman Geneva Harris and Mayor Pat Asbill. Absent was Councilman Charles Patterson. Council heard the resignation letter of Councilman Bob Nelson, who resigned because he was named to the Saluda County Water and Sewer Authority. MAYOR PAT ASBILL Mr. Nelsons seat will be filled by a special election to be held June 19. Anyone wishing to run for Council should pick up a petition at Town Hall as soon as possible. All applications will need to be returned to Town Hall by noon on April 20. Also on the agenda was a request from Valley Proteins for permission to install a permanent electrical connection to an electrical meter owned by the Town. Council approved the connection with Valley Protein paying a portion of the electrical charge for that meter. Council also approved two business licenses to B Polished Nail Tech at 1024
Please see MAYOR, page 8

Relay on the Ridge was a huge success once again! The RS-M High FFA pulled together a wonderful event to honor the memory of those lost to cancer and to honor the survivors and their caretakers. Every person either knows someone who has been affected by cancer or has personal experience. Many other groups joined to help raise money RS-M High Senior Beta Club (Kiss Cancer Goodbye!), Cedar Creek on the Ridge (Help Us Drive Cancer Out!), Mt. Alpha Baptist Church, Christians for a Cure, Saluda Primary School and more. Mrs. Palmers K4 class at Ridge Spring-Monetta Elementary/Middle School created a banner for the event: Dont Monkey Around with Cancer! The evening kicked off with a welcome by FFA sponsor Michael Crim. Then Arus Johnson led the survivors walk after which everybody joined on a Unity Walk. Then the fun festivities began. The Beta Club was a popular site with a kissing booth, giving out chocolate lips and Hersheys Kisses for donations (no real kissing was involved yeah, there were some disappointed people!). They sold all kinds of cancer awareness items to

PHOTO BY JOSIE RODGERS

THE FIGHT AGAINST CANCER: Residents of the Ridge Spring, Monetta and Saluda communities take part in Relay on the Ridge. See more photos on page 8. help raise money. be sprung by someone for $2. Next door was a jail. People even the little ones were put in jail and had to Please see RELAY, page 8

Second Magnolia Ridge Antique, Art Gathering coming up May 19

BY BEV ARNDT
Contributor

On Saturday, May 19 from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., the second Magnolia Ridge Antique and Art Gathering will be held. Last years event was so well attended and such a fun day for all. There is no fee to come; food will be available for purchase. The Mennonite ladies will offer breakfast, and Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church Mens Club will be doing the

lunch. Browsers are welcome, and we have room for a few more dealers. Contact magridge12@gmail.com or Bev Arndt at (561) 262-7475 with any questions. Just come into the lovely town of Ridge Spring and watch for signs. Magnolia Ridge is located at corner of Route 23 and Mt. Calvary Road (directly across from John Deere). We sit in the middle of the peach groves and a hunter/jumper training facility a beautiful setting.

2 Ridge Spring Monthly Wednesday, April 18, 2012

History of Ridge Spring

There were ups and downs, but none of the catastrophic events that we hear of today. Then came the 30s! The prices of all farm commodities plummeted to record lows. Cotton, the main cash crop on most farms, sold for a low of 5 cents a pound. This is far below the cost of production, JOE particularly after the WATSON invasion of the Bole Weevil. Unless the farmer had a good cash reserve or outside income, there was no way he could keep his land. Two situations caused by the lack of money caused by the depression had profound affects on this family. The first was the fact that the local school board was able to supplement the teachers salary enough that they could pay for board and live in Ridge Spring, thereby making it possible to enforce the live in Ridge Spring and remain single rule. After the onslaught of the depression, there was no money for this practice, and it was discontinued. Several of the teachers who had stopped teaching when they married were offered their old positions. Aurelia was one of these that accepted this offer and, in 1931, returned to the classroom. This was the year her youngest child began school in the first grade. The second was the closing of the banks. There was no place for farmers to borrow money to buy seed, fertilizer and other supplies for planting a crop. To help with this situation, the federal government organized The Seed Loan to loan farmers money for seed and other supplies to be repaid in the fall. My father applied for and received a position in Darlington County. Things went well for awhile, as he could come home on weekends. Then, about the time Aurelia returned to the classroom, he was transferred to Kentucky to work there for six years,

leaving her, a town girl with no farming or business experience, running a farm and rearing four children, the youngest beginning first grade. This arrangement was made possible only because of the help of a Bennie Raiford, who began to help on the farm about 1926 and had developed such a close relationship with my father that he naturally developed into overseer, foreman and confidant for Aurelia. Making ends meet was always a problem. The salary for a school teacher was a promissory note from the state. Some people with money would redeem these teachers certificates at a pretty severe discount rate, but, at times, there was no alternative.

Treasures at a bargain: Womans Study Club gives Peach Tree 23 Yard Sale
Marcia Yeargin receives a check from Faye Powell, Study Club Education chapter. Also pictured are, from left, Samantha McClure, Emily Ruth Yeargin, Bobbie Pullon, Caroline ONeal, Michael Day, Ayla, Morgan Day and Darlene Day.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

gift to Ridge Spring Library

The Ridge Spring Library recently received a $2,000 donation from the Womans Study Club of Ridge Spring. The club received a grant of $800 from the General Federation Womens Club of S.C. Progress Foundation, which they matched with $800 and added $400 for the gift to the library. The club is very grateful to the GFWC-SC Progress Foundation for their grant which enabled them to make this presentation. Books for the children and youth will be purchased as Marcia Yeargin, childrens coordinator at the library, plans with the librarian at Saluda County Library. Some of the books they plan to order are Amelia Goes Camping, An Awesome Book of Thanks, On the Moon, No Sleep for the Sheep and many more wonderful selections.

Get ready to shop the Peach Tree 23 Yard Sale coming June 4th. Or better yet, get ready to sell at the Peach Tree. Either way, you will come out a winner. Five years ago, the small towns located along SC Highway 23 decided that it was time to attract some notice. It was then that the yard sale was conceived. Not knowing what to call the sale, we just looked around and everywhere were peach trees, thus the name. Each town Modoc, Edgefield, Johnston, Ward, Ridge Spring, Monetta, Batesburg and Leesville welcome yard

sellers, antique dealers, crafters, and people who sell plants and produce to set up and sell in the towns. In the five years since it began, the sale has grown so much that inside the town limits of Ridge Spring alone, there were 159 yard sales last year. There were well over 250 yard sales along the way. For information about the yard sale, please call: Ridge Spring at (803) 685-7810, Batesburg-Leesville at (803) 532-4339, Johnston at (803) 275-0010 and Edgefield at (803) 637-4014.

Wednesday, April 18, 2012 Ridge Spring Monthly 3

RS-M winning in first varsity soccer season

BY NOAH FEIT
nfeit@aikenstandard.com RIDGE SPRING The Spring Equinox signaled the start of a new season, but at Ridge Spring-Monetta High School, they have already embarked a different kind of season. For the first time in school history, or at least as far back as anybody at RS-M can remember, the Trojans are fielding a varsity soccer team. Its been great, said head coach Kayla Hyatt. Weve got lots of players who are good kids. They work hard and are practicing almost every day. Although this is the schools initial foray into soccer, it has gotten off to a great start. RS-Ms record was a perfect 6-0 after the Thursday, March 22, win against Calhoun County. The Trojans overcame a halftime deficit to prevail 2-1, with Carlos Fernandez scoring both RS-M goals, including the game-winner in overtime. The season started on March 5, but the origins about the birth of the team date a little further back. A year ago Hyatts first teaching English at RS-M some students approached her about helping them to field a team. She said they came to her because of the relationship she had built with many of them in the classroom. Although she doesnt have experience coaching or in soccer at all she has a background in athletics and fitness. But more than anything, she wanted to help the kids who desperately wanted to play soccer for RS-M. It was the students, Hyatt recalled. They said, We really want a team, but nobody wants to coach. Hyatt agreed to serve as head coach; the only problem was RS-M wasnt able to play at the varsity level last year. She said the school wanted to run soccer as a club sport at first to see how well it was received. Needless to say, the club was successful, and when Hyatt got the green light to make the move to varsity this year, the students responded. When preseason practice opened this year, a dozen experienced players turned out, ready to make the leap to varsity. Kids who played on the club team as well as leagues outside of school were the driving force behind the RS-M team. Chief among them was Jesus Aron. The senior center midfielder led the charge to start the squad, and hes one of its most talented players. Hyatt said the straight-A students skills are only exceeded by his work ethic. Aron was held out of the March 22 game as a

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Top row: Mario Torres, Kenny Leaphart, Ramello Harris, Travious Wigfall, Demarcus Robinson, Marquis Anderson, OBrien Gilliam, Jockaize Raiford; second row: Raheem Caldwell, Adan Ortiz, Coach Kayla Hyatt, Assistant Sherwan Bunch, Assistant Lori Cook, Luis Lopez, Trey Abney; third row: Miguel Vega, Ashly-Ann Polatty, Carlos Fernandez, Jared Crute, Eric Jimenez, Alyson Cromer; bottom row: Phillip Adams, Dre Hicks, Evan Layton, Javier Garcia-Montoya, Jesus Arjon, Avery Woodson. Not pictured are Hayorn Walker and Shanquita Brown. precaution as he dealt with a leg strain. Another leader in forming a team as well
Please see SOCCER, page 4

4 Ridge Spring Monthly Wednesday, April 18, 2012

RS-M HIGH SCHOOL NEWS

The fresh vegetables, the home-grown melons and the personal gratification one gets from producing ones own food builds confidence and instills a sense of pride for people of all ages. If I were to tell you that there is a way for those of us who dont like to garden to almost eliminate all of the negatives about gardening, would you be interested? Ill bet you would be! A solution is square-foot gardening. A square-foot garden is a container garden by definition. It is not a bunch of pots on your porch or in your backyard. It is a shallow structure, usually no more than 6 inches deep. It is weed-free, and native soils are not used. Potting soil is recommended, and, because you can shop for potting soils, soil amendments, synthetic fertilizers and lime might not need to be added. Another advantage is that square-foot gardens usually only require about 20 percent of the water that a normal garden of the same size would use. Each unit takes up very little space. Those interested in purchasing a squarefoot garden can contact the Ridge SpringMonetta agriculture department. A 3x3 unit costs $35, a 4x4 unit costs $65 and a 5x5 unit costs $100. To contact Michael Crim, the FFA adviser at RS-M, about purchasing a unit, call (803) 685-2100 or email tcrim@aiken.k12.sc.us. By Evan Layton, RS-M FFA reporter

SOCCER
CONTINUED FROM 3

Miss Odyssey Pageant

The RS-M High Miss Odyssey Pageant was March 17. The fairy-tale princess theme came to life with a beautiful backdrop of castles and lights and gossamer. In the opening number, the young ladies appeared in colorcoordinated outfits and danced to the song You Can Tell Shes a Princess by Barbie. As they entered the stage for the casual wear competition, they took a dramatic glance into a see-through magic mirror. For the evening gown competition, the contestants were escorted by four of the most handsome princes in the school: Braxton Matthews, Hayorn Walker, Corbin Yon and Tripp Padgett. The emcee for the evening was Jason Newsome. Entertainment was provided by the Palmetto Dance Academys senior competition team and by dancer Rhea Hughes. The Edge out of North Augusta provided a pageant workshop for the contestants complete with beauty tips, pageant etiquette and gowns for modeling and purchasing. Miss Odyssey winners were crowned by the younger queens from RS-M Elementary/ Middle School: McKenna Palmer, Miss RS-M Middle; Annalee Rodgers, Junior Miss RS-M; Kaitlyn Kirk, Little Miss; and Jordan Stone, Young Miss. The Odyssey winners were Miss Freshman Madison Derrick, first runner-up Tianna Oakman-Tucker and second runner-up Jordan Reeves; Miss Sophomore Jordyn Rodgers, first runner-up Destiny Ligons and second runner-up Morgan Eidson; Miss Junior Shanquita Brown, first runnerup Khadijah Padgett and second runner-up Annisha Bettis; Miss Senior Bryanna Jones, first runner-up Nyejai Harris and second runner-up Brittany McCord. Miss Odyssey was Breanna Hopkins, and Miss Congeniality was junior Annisha Bettis. Other contestants included Amber Davis, Belle Key, Shaundrese Clarke, Ashly-Ann Polatty, Shakeria Smith and Janisha Ruth.

purchased tickets for the event. The event opened with greetings from the RS-M FFAs president, Corbin Yon. FFA reporter Evan Layton led the blessing, and then the meal was served. At the conclusion of the meal, Corbin introduced RS-M FFA Vice President Ethan Derrick, who recognized the many sponsors of the event and also the members of the RS-M FFA Alumni Chapter who made the benefit happen. Presentations were made by FFA senior James Cochran and RS-M FFA treasurer Drew Barr. Cochran spoke about the importance of the FFA National Washington Leadership Conference and how the trip helped him develop leadership skills. Barr led a presentation on the upcoming Relay on the Ridge, which will be held April 13 on the RS-M campus from 6 p.m. to midnight. At the conclusion of the event, a silent auction was held. This events importance to the Ridge Spring-Monetta FFA chapter travels cant be measured, said Cochran. Simply without the benefit, I would have never attended National FFA Convention, and WLC would have never happened. I am thankful to the FFA Alumni and also the hundreds of people from the RS-M community who have gone out of their way to make this event successful.

All As honor roll for 3rd nine weeks:

Alyson Cromer, Angel Lybrand, Angel Manning, Brittany McCord, Whitney Miller and Austin Whitfield

A-B honor roll for 3rd nine weeks:

Nicole Brennan, Ragine Brooks, Shanquita Brown, Keith Casares, Marc Cleveland, Bridget Corder, Dallas Davis, Valentina DiGiacomo, Jose Garcia Montoya, Tiffany Gomillion, Jessica Harris, Shila Johnson, Shalonda Johnson, Tosheanetta Key, Kody Keisler, Braxton Matthews, Olivia Matthews, Richard Padgett, Ladavia Prescott, Ashly Ann Polatty, BaChondria Raiford, Austin Rodgers, David Rudd, Latonya Samuels, CaDedra Sullivan, Tymiyah Tyler, Raven Valentine and Corbin Yon

RS-M agriculture department builds square-foot gardens

When most of the students enrolled in the agriculture program at Ridge Spring-Monetta High School are asked what they hate about gardening, a variety of responses are heard. Teenagers sometimes say, It is too hot. They might say, All we do in our garden is pull weeds. But most teen students simply say, It is too much work. If you ask the adults in the RS-M community, youll get the same responses. Gardening is work, but most of the people who enjoy gardening will tell you that the effort and time invested are well worth the heat and the pulling of weeds. If you enjoy it, it is never work.

Perfect attendance for 3rd nine weeks:

Angel Brown, Quameshia Gantt, Tiffany Gomillion, Ryan Hallback, Craig Hartley, Kody Keisler, Alexandria Matthews, Olivia Matthews, Kyle Middlebrooks, Donald Moore, Brandi Pryor, Latonya Samuels, Alonzo Smith, Jessica Turner, Hayorn Walker and Adam William

FFA alumni holds annual fundraiser to benet the RS-M FFA chapter
The Ridge Spring-Monetta FFA Alumni held its fifth annual benefit on March 24 in the schools cafeteria. More than 100 people

as on the field is Eric Jimenez. A junior midfielder, Jimenez is like a coach on the field, helping instruct some of his lessexperienced teammates. Other experienced contributors include Fernandez, a sophomore striker, as well as juniors Adan Ortiz and Mario Torres. Their combined leadership not only helped create the team but also flesh out the roster. They helped grow the Trojan squad as word of mouth about the popularity of a varsity team helped the roster grow from 12 players to the 24 that took the field on March 22. They knew us, Hyatt said of the players who joined later, including athletes from the football, basketball and track team. Its a new sport, and they saw how physical (it) is. ... More students are showing up because its a lot of fun and physical. Among the athletes who are soccer newbies are basketball player Hayorn Walker, football player Ramello Harris and baseball player Trey Abney among others. Walker, a center for the basketball team, is putting his height to good use as goalkeeper. Thats a tough position to fill, Hyatt said of the spot Walkers sharing with Travious Wigfall. (Walkers) progressed through the year. Hyatt specifically cited the performance of her netminder in a game against Blackville-Hilda on March 12. It was the third game of the season, and the Trojans wouldnt have posted a 2-1 win on sudden death penalty kicks had it not been for Walkers outstanding effort. Mixed in among the newcomers are a pair of female players, sophomores Alyson Cromer and Ashley-Ann Polatty. Cromer has a larger role as a defender, in part because of her experience in league play. But the presence of both girls shows the diversity of the team and the many players contributing to a first-season success. While the team has gotten off to a good start, no matter what it does this season, it will be a success. Putting a team together and competing with the best Class A has to offer in the area is a major accomplishment. That said, Hyatt said making the playoffs is a goal. But its not the ultimate goal. We want to promote hard work and sportsmanship, said Hyatt, who praised other coaches at RS-M as well as the athletic director, Brian McCormack, for doing everything they can to help get the team off the ground and running. Although she doesnt have a history in soccer, like her assistant coaches Lori Cook and Sherwan Bunch, Hyatt has no intention of leaving the team. I plan to continue with it. I want it to continue to grow. ... Our motto is we are family.

Wednesday, April 18, 2012 Ridge Spring Monthly 5

The Ridge Garden Club takes its 2012 spring field trip
BY LEE DANE
Contributor

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Bob McCartney shows a special plant to Louise Derrick, Faye Powell, Amy Derrick and Annie Cromer. Cromer.

Seven eager members of the Ridge Garden Club departed from the Ridge Spring Baptist Church at 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 5. After a delightful lunch at Fatz Cafe in Aiken, we headed over for our 1 p.m. appointment with Bob McCartney, owner of Woodlanders Nursery and naturalist par excellence. Bob met us as we walked in the gate and warned us that since the shipping season had just ended the Friday before and the annual April open house was only a couple of weeks in the future, we might find the nursery in confusion. But there was lots to see and hear about. He gave us a brief rundown on the history of Woodlanders in answer to the question of why here? Bob said that in 1980, he had met Robert and Julia Mackintosh, who had founded the nursery the year before, and had been invited to join them in the venture. The nursery remains as it had always been, a collectors nursery where plants from around the world and special treasures from the Southeast can be found. The nursery displays all of its offerings on the Internet, as it no longer has a print catalog, spends the winter months shipping to gardeners and gardens around the world and then, during the summer, propagates new plants to list for the upcoming season. Bob travels the world to climates similar to the Southeast, bringing back new wonders, often plants not

collected or grown anywhere else. Woodlanders also sells a number of species that are endangered in South Carolina and can only be offered to in-state gardeners. All plants are grown from seed or from cuttings; no plant has been collected from the wild. After that introduction, Bob led us around lawns, down the woodland paths and through the greenhouses. Many trees and shrubs that might have been in bloom were already over because of the early spring (shades of the Masters!). But every time a blossom showed its face, there were cries of Bob, whats that? We went from native magnolia trees, some with wonderful scent, one that smelled downright repellant, to later-blooming orange native azaleas to flowering pomegranate shrubs to a deliciously scented native styrax tree and so many more. Bob would not admit it, but the great pleasure of following him around the paths is his extensive knowledge of plants and their growth habits, as we heard how many of the interesting trees and shrubs Bob has collected himself. There are a lot of Southeastern species that seem well-known until he points out the special characteristics of each, the dwarf form, the yellow-flowered form, the tree form and so forth. Our hour at the nursery went by far too quickly. Members jumped back into our cars to head home, with only a McDonalds stop for quick energy and agreed that it had been a fun and worthwhile field trip.

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6 Ridge Spring Monthly Wednesday, April 18, 2012

RS-M ELEMENTARY/MIDDLE NEWS

time, effort and materials including Mr. Bellamy, Mr. Key, Barbara Crowe, Katherine Crowe, Shannon Cotham, Diane Pardue, Shana Jones, Kim Carges, and Tonya Rodgers. The hook was able to be removed with the help of Dr. Greg Brown at Sunset Animal Clinic in West Columbia. The gull received antibiotics for a week and was released.

Announcing registration for 4-year-old kindergarten School staff rescues injured seagull; bird is treated and released
An injured seagull that spent a couple of days hanging around the school campus was captured by school staff on March 7 and taken to Carolina Wildlife Care. The seagull had fishing hooks caught under his eye and on the back of his head and appeared to be unable to see well or fly far. Teachers and students were very concerned about the welfare of the injured seagull and worked together to bring him to safety. Jonathon Livingston Seagull was not easy to catch. He could fly just well enough to repeatedly get away. Big thanks go out to all who helped in the rescue by donating Location: Ridge Spring-Monetta Elementary/Middle School Dates: April 18 and 19 Time: 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. For: Children who will be 4 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2012. Space is limited! Registration does not guarantee enrollment. Please bring with you the following: 1. Birth certificate (must be long form) 2. South Carolina immunization record (DHEC form) 3. Social Security card 4. Two proofs of residence (any two bills registered in parent/legal guardians name) Call (803) 685-2000 with any questions. If translation services are required, please come to the office between 7:40 and 8:40 a.m. on April 18 or 1 to 3 p.m. on April 19.

Parents vs. Teachers game

Thanks to everyone who came out to the Parents vs. Teachers Basketball Game on March 12. We all had a great time. Those who played all really got into the competition of the game and wanted to get in all the playing time they could. Our cheerleaders added the extra motivation to push the excitement over the top with the addition of little Trojan girls from the audience joining our cheer squad! We raised $414 for our school.

Wednesday, April 18, 2012 Ridge Spring Monthly 7

GIRL SCOUTS CELEBRATE CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY

On March 24, the Girl Scouts in the B-L, Saluda and Ridge Spring service unit gathered at the National Guard Armory in Batesburg to celebrate the 100th birthday of the Girl Scouts. March 12 was the actual day Juliette Low initiated the first girls into the program. Our Scout troops each chose a decade to learn about and share with the other troops. Troop 798 of Ridge Spring presented the 1930s, complete with dolls dressed in uniforms of that period and homemade cookies from one of the original Girl Scout recipes. Troop 2935 taught everyone about the 1940s and served bread pudding, much like they would have enjoyed in that decade. Troop 2822 of Ridge Spring presented the Fabulous 50s, sharing Coke floats and bubble gum with everyone, demonstrating hula hoop skills and presenting notebooks with famous Girl Scouts and one with all kinds of nifty things and people from the 50s. Troop 989 of Batesburg displayed all kinds of information from the 1960s. Troop 786 showed us lots of information about how scouting had changed in the 1990s. Finally, Troop 960 Scouts told everyone about how they empower girls. B-L Town Councilman Steve Cain visited and brought pizza and cupcakes for everyone. The girls had a terrific time mingling with the other troops, playing games, and sharing their passion for Girl Scouting. Many thanks to the troop leaders and the parents for all their hard work!

8 Ridge Spring Monthly Wednesday, April 18, 2012

RELAY ON THE RIDGE

PAGEANT WINNERS

Miss RS-M Middle & Miss Congeniality McKenna Palmer; Miss 7th Grade Ashton Davenport; Junior Miss Annalee Rodgers; 1st runner-up Junior Miss Kaylah McDowell; Young Miss Jordan Stone Front row: 1st runner-up Young Miss Karra Canady; 2nd runner-up Young Miss Audrey Derrick; Little Miss Kaitlyn Kirk; 1st runner-up Wee Miss Alyssa Derrick; Wee Miss Emma Rodgers; 2nd runner-up Wee Miss Shakira Morris; 1st runner-up Little Miss Amy Oxendine; 2nd runnner-up Little Miss Abi Moss

MAYOR
CONTINUED FROM 1
Main Street and Tips and Toes Nail Spa on Edwards Street behind the bank. Council adjourned to executive session to hear a personnel concern. The meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m. Before ending this column, I would like to thank Bob Nelson for all the help, advice and knowledge that he shared while serving with this Council. His departing will leave a void on the Council that will be difficult to fill.

Police Report for March

Speeding: 29 Drivers License Violation: 1

Defective Equipment: 4 Stop Sign: 2 Loud Music: 1 Dog at Large Summons: 1 Discharge Dangerous Device: 1 Traffic Accidents: 1 Driving Under Influence: 1 Driving Under Suspension: 3 Disorderly Conduct: 2 Resisting arrest: 2 Possession of Crack: 3 Possession of Meth: 1 Service Calls: 36 Theft: 1 Assault: 1 Vandalism: 2 Verbal Dispute: 1 Discharge of Weapon: 1 Attempted B&E: 1 Possession of Stolen Property: 1 wonderful community for a single cause: to help end the fight against cancer so that more birthdays can occur. Many thanks to the RS-M High students, faculty, staff, FFA, Beta Club and the Ridge Spring, Monetta and Saluda communities for uniting us all in faith, hope, and love. The Saluda County Relay For Life will be held May 4. Relay on the Ridge is part of the Saluda County Relay For Life.

RELAY
CONTINUED FROM 1
Cedar Creek on the Ridge offered delectable confections and good old sweet tea. For the hungry walkers, the FFA sold hot dogs and trimmings. Other choices for food included chicken, hamburgers, snow cones, popcorn, snacks, cupcakes and more.

The bounce house was a huge hit with the kids. Steele Justice thrilled the crowd with music for every type of listener. When darkness fell, the luminaries were lit in a symbolic circle to honor the memory of those lost to cancer, as well as those who are currently fighting the disease or have survived it. The crowd also celebrated the caretakers of these people, without whom the journey would be impossible. The entire crowd joined together for

one lap to show their support and love for all who are affected by this terrible disease. Steel Justice wowed the crowd again who doesnt love Sweet Home Alabama? Then the line dancing began with kids and adults of all ages doing the Cupid Shuffle, the Wobble and the Cha Cha slide, to name a few. As the night came to an end, participants, vendors, sponsors and walkers were exhausted but exhilarated to know that the entire evening brought together a

Wednesday, April 18, 2012 Ridge Spring Monthly 9

Taste of Home Cooking School will return to Aiken on May 10

STAFF REPORTS

Drop your whisks, grab your friends and join us for a night of fun as the Aiken Standard hosts the Taste of Home Cooking School show, presented live at the USC Aiken Convocation Center on Thursday, May 10. During this interactive event, top culinary expert Michelle Roberts will demonstrate 10 new recipes you can recreate in your home. Armed with new culinary tips and techniques, youll be sure to impress your family and friends with these sophisticated yet easyto-make dishes. Not only will you leave the event with new recipe ideas, youll also go home with a valuable gift bag. Our ever-popular gift bags include an assortment of products and coupons, including two Taste of Home magazines. While youre there, remember to enter for a chance to win one of many exciting door prizes. Two ticket levels are being sold, For Taste of Home mega-fans a VIP ticket is available for $45. These are very limited but give the ticket holder a custom gift bag with a premium Taste of Home Cookbook, entry to

the VIP event with our culinary expert and premium seating. General admission tickets are available for $10 and include a valuable gift bag stuffed with goodies and entry to the vendor fair. Doors open at 3 p.m. for a vendor fair that will feature 24 of the areas most exciting businesses that will have giveaways and items for sale. The cooking begins at 6:30 p.m. when Roberts will prepare 10 fabulous dishes on stage. Think of it as a live version of a food TV show. For more information and how to purchase tickets, visit www.aikenstandard.com/tasteofhome or call Dee Taylor at 644-2371.

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10 Ridge Spring Monthly Wednesday, April 18, 2012

benefits families who want to educate their children as they see fit in a private school or at home. Education is not a one-size-fitsall proposition; each child is educationally unique in how they learn. In my view, this is not a battle between choice versus public education as opponents try to frame the argument; both have their place and both need support. This is about doing whats best for educating our children. This modest choice legislation focuses on creating scholarships for low-income students. The legislation moves to the Senate. Keeping Us Safe: Restaurant Carry legislation was approved by the House of Representatives; the vote was 82 to 3. This bill would allow those with a S.C. Concealed Weapon Permit (CWP) to carry into restaurants that serve alcohol as long as they dont consume beer or booze. I am a sponsor of this legislation and spoke in favor of passage during debate. Every law enforcement officer I have spoken to embraces the expansion of the CWP program because it makes lawbreakers think twice not knowing where guns are hidden. Drug Testing Unemployed: The House passed a bill that would allow for someone collecting unemployment to lose their benefits if they fail or refuse to take an employers drug test. Employers may report such failures to the states unemployment agency but are not required to do so. A Win for Farmers & Others: This may not sound like a big deal, but if the House hadnt passed a bill giving relief to farmers and those who drive trucks or haul heavy trailers, they would soon face huge fines. If the feds had their way, farm trucks and equipment that move on S.C. roads and highways would have to be issued a DOT number along with all its requirements. The House passed H.4761 that provides relief to small farmers and others who drive trucks less than 26,000 pounds. It exempts them from obtaining a DOT number and a medical health card if their vehicle is driven only in South Carolina. This helps alleviate onerous government regulations. War on Hogs and Coyotes: A bill is being considered in the House that would invite hunters to use almost any means to stem the expansion of wild hogs and coyotes in South Carolina. It allows for night hunting of hogs, coyotes and armadillos from March through June. It would allow hunting after dark and the use of bait, lights and laser sights. Proponents call it a war on hogs and coyotes and say they need to be minimized do to the threat to crops, livestock and wildlife. Thank you for the privilege of serving you. As always, I welcome your comments and suggestions, dont hesitate to call or write.

S.C. LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

together to pass historic reform to shore up the states retirement system. It is a problem that has been more than a decade in the making. Without decisive action, the $13 billion unfunded liability would double to $26 billion by 2041, threatening the financial solvency of the entire pension system. This problem isnt exclusive to those in the state pension program. Many in the private sector have seen their retirement savings evaporate during the Great Recession. Any changes are upsetting to those counting on their pension. Its understandable that no one wants to lose benefits, but the proposed changes are designed to have minimal impact while avoiding a catastrophe. The House solution: The retirement system reform bill will save taxpayers $8 billion over the next 30 years while slicing more than $2 billion from the retirement systems deficit. The changes affect the more than a half-million members of the state retirement system and the police officers retirement system. These changes ensure the system will be there for state retirees, while also ensuring the state retirement system doesnt become a black hole for taxpayers. Changes made to the plan include: Employees will pay 1 percent more out of their paychecks, with an additional 1 percent from the employers. Employees will pay more to buy service time to retire early. Employees cannot use vacation days, sick days or overtime pay to calculate retirement. Benefits will be calculated using the last five years of salary, instead of three. New hires will work 30 years before they are eligible for retirement, up from 28; police officers and firefighters can still retire after 25 years. New hires are not eligible for the TERI program, which allows workers to retire and then return to work while collecting benefits. Lawmakers may not retire and draw benefits while still serving in the Legislature. Legislators will also contribute an additional 1 percent to the retirement system, raising their contribution to 11 percent annually. The bill now heads to the state Senate for more debate and certain changes.

Dear Friends: I begin with a big THANK YOU! I am most grateful for the opportunity to serve the nearly 40,000 residents of S.C. House District 86 which comprises nearly two-thirds of Aiken County. Election filing ended recently; I am unopposed in the June GOP primary election and no other candidate has filed for REP. BILL the November general TAYLOR election. It is an honor to serve you in the S.C. House of Representatives.

COOPER RIVER BRIDGE RUN

Name, age, chip time and clock time * Batesburg Melinda Amick, 33, 0:57:37, 1:15:29 Abbey Duggins, 31, 1:10:50, 1:20:53 Benjamin Dumont, 20, 1:08:48, 1:32:14 Donna Dumont, 48, 1:28:37, 1:52:04 Emily Dumont, 13, 1:19:11, 1:42:38 Katherine Dumont, 14, 1:28:38, 1:52:04 Sarah Dumont, 16, 1:04:27, 1:27:53 Brett Price, 32, 1:07:10, 1:34:20 Mary Clare Price, 31, 1:02:29, 1:29:39 Nick Rikard, 32, 0:53:23, 0:59:29 Elizabeth Schumpert, 45, 1:10:50, 1:20:53 Courtney Shealy, 27, 1:32:01, 2:23:41 Michael Shealy, 60, 1:36:46, 2:05:14 Robin Taylor, 43, 1:14:47, 1:33:10 Virginia Wertz, 44, 1:23:47, 1:47:26 Edgefield Elizabeth Holmes, 37, 1:20:25, 1:47:25 Kori Mills, 51, 1:21:40, 1:54:29 Kara Peeler, 30, 1:30:12, 2:11:27 Marie Peeler, 25, 1:30:12, 2:11:27 Michelle Still, 35, 1:06:11, 1:51:31 Arlene Traxler, 59, 1:40:56, 2:36:40 Johnston Bailie Campbell, 19, 1:40:55, 2:31:53 Thomas Davis, 47, 1:06:31, 1:12:48 Karen Prince, 46, 0:57:04, 1:07:02 Rebecca Riley, 40, 1:25:34, 1:52:35 Leesville Alene Amick, 49, 1:50:23, 2:41:39 Landon Amick, 24, 0:47:44, 0:54:20 Lisa Amick, 53, 1:50:21, 2:41:36 Meg Backwinkel, 20, 1:21:50, 2:12:58 Amy Bedenbaugh, 37, 0:57:52, 1:16:28 Ashley Bouknight, 31, 1:07:29, 1:39:22 James Bouknight III, 36, 1:04:00, 1:35:53 Kyle Chapman, 17, 2:08:45, 2:45:44 Andrea Derrick, 40, 1:02:55, 1:21:18 Billy Derrick, 59, 1:24:44, 2:12:21 Jay Fulmer, 33, 1:35:19, 2:26:50 Kim Fulmer, 35, 1:35:15, 2:26:45 Amanda Goldsberry, 40, 2:34:31, 2:34:31 Maribeth Hanna, 22, 1:11:27, 1:44:41 Breelyn Harmon, 22, 1:22:55, 1:50:51 Ashley Heichelbech, 31, 2:29:51, 3:16:31 Tena Helms, 37, 1:38:37, 2:02:16 Barbara Johnson, 43, 1:15:47, 1:26:25 Krystie Miller, 27, 1:54:28, 2:51:29 Kim Pocock, 57, 0:54:23, 0:57:09 Sandra Pocock, 51, 1:28:13, 1:46:37 Annette Powell, 48, 1:12:40, 1:44:23 TJ Propst, 44, 0:56:55, 1:28:38 Kathy Rikard, 56, 1:17:57, 1:50:47 Laurie Rikard, 36, 1:08:23, 1:32:00 Rick Rikard, 53, 0:53:42, 1:07:13 Grig Sawyer, 39, 0:53:09, 0:59:15 Stephanie Sawyer, 35, 1:05:51, 1:24:28 Melissa Scott, 44, 1:08:25, 1:53:43 Monetta Tracy Stone, 46, 1:15:00, 1:47:07 Ridge Spring Lorene Palmer, 47, 2:12:46, 3:08:21 Brittany Steele, 27, 1:40:47, 2:13:33 Saluda Hope Bedenbaugh, 29, 1:06:35, 1:52:25 Walter Bedenbaugh, 35, 0:57:22, 1:07:27 Breanna Boatwright, 15, 2:15:31, 2:52:31 Renee Boatwright, 34, 1:40:06, 2:30:57 Nicholls Hubertt, 55, 0:56:17, 1:05:30 Sherry Kirkland, 51, 1:33:40, 1:57:18 Stephanie Maroney, 31, 1:27:22, 1:51:00 Sadea Rodgers, 20, 1:19:58, 2:12:28 Carol Whitfield, 65, 1:57:09, 2:48:50 William Whitfield, 69, 1:57:09, 2:48:50
* Chip time is when the runner crosses the starting line to when he crosses the finish line. Clock time is when the race starts to when the runner crosses the finish line.

South Carolina isnt like Washington

In Washington, D.C., partisan bickering seems to rule. In South Carolina, elected officials know how to work together for better and more efficient government. House Democrats and Republicans joined together in the House of Representatives to unanimously pass a state budget. Be assured there were disagreements and much debate on how to wisely spend your tax money, but both sides came together to pass a balanced budget that falls well within the proposed cap on spending. It focuses on the core functions of government education, infrastructure and law enforcement, all of which are vital to our states growing economy. The spending plan also provides tax relief, pays off debt and replenishes the states rainy day? reserve accounts. Headlines from the $6 billion General Fund appropriations: $152 million in additional funds for K-12 used in the classroom and not for educational bureaucracy $180 million set aside to pay for S.C.s share of the deepening of the Charleston Port, the major economic driver for South Carolina $77 million in tax relief to employers of all sizes to provide some relief from the high unemployment insurance costs caused by the recession $549 million in tax relief; 88 percent of which is property tax relief that must be granted annually if the relief is to remain Nearly $400 million to the Constitutional and Statutory Reserves those funds go into our savings account for the next economic downturn The Rainy Day Fund. The proposed budget bill is now in the Senate.

Other issues addressed

School Choice Approved for the First Time: It was eight years ago when the first School Choice legislation was introduced in the S.C. legislature. At last, a Choice bill has been approved by the House on a vote of 65-49. I helped lead the initiative that

Saving the state retirement system

Both Republicans and Democrats joined

Wednesday, April 18, 2012 Ridge Spring Monthly 11

OBITUARIES
Shirley Culbreath
RIDGE SPRING Shirley Culbreath of 303 Peach Leaf Curve, Ridge Spring, SC, died March 23, 2012, at Aiken Regional Medical Centers. Arrangements were handled by Davis Funeral Home Inc. of Ridge Spring, SC. honorary member of the GOMC. Mrs. Sawyer was a graduate of Columbia College, and she earned a Masters degree at the University of South Carolina. She retired as an educator after teaching for 30 years in the Aiken County School System, and she later taught and retired from W. Wyman King Academy. Surviving are her husband of Ridge Spring; daughters, Becky (Dray) Wannamaker, Bonnie (Zach) Matthews, Beth Ann Sawyer (Kirk Holmes); grandchildren, McKenzie Faye and Drayton Sawyer Wanna-maker, and Lillian Claire Matthews. Active pallbearers are Steve Callaway, Clark DuBose, Tommy DuBose, Jimmy Marranci, Pete Nuessle, Earle Powell, Tom Sawyer, and Kevin Yon. Honorary pallbearers are Libby Bostian, Jean Callaway, Debbie Collum, Mary Derrick, Elaine DuBose, Sandra DuBose, Mary Edmonds, Ann Holstein, Debra Marranci, Barbara Nuessle, Machelle Powell, and Debbie Sawyer. Also serving as Honorary pallbearers are all current and former members of the Ridge Spring Baptist Church choir, along with members of the Ridge Spring Coffee Club. The family expresses their special appreciation to Lana Jackson, M.D.; Paul Bilodeau, M.D.; Belinda T. Rikard, R.N.; Debra Marranci, R.N.; the staff at the Medical College of Georgia; the staff at Banks Drug; Ella Ree Wigfall and Ann Hite for the professional care, love, and attention they provided to Mrs. Sawyer. Online register at barr-price.com (803) 532-4411. Young, Aiken, two grandchildren, Haleigh and Brittany Young, three sisters, Patsy Barnes and Diane Youngblood of Aiken and Debra Anderson of Lakeland, FL, and a brother Edward McFee of Aiken. Mrs. Young was preceded in death by a daughter Chasity Taffey Craig. Funeral services were held on Saturday, April 14 at Levels Baptist Church with the Rev. David Young officiating. Interment followed in the church cemetery. Memorials may be directed to Levels Baptist Church, 2456 Levels Church Road, Aiken, SC 29803. Please visit her online guest book at www. shellhouseriversfuneralhome.com.

Louise Cullum Crouch

Funeral services for Mrs. Louise Cullum Crouch, age 93, was held Tuesday, April 3, 2012, at noon at Bland Funeral Home. Interment will follow in Mount of Olives Cemetery. Mrs. Crouch, a native of Johnston and widow of the late Henry S. Crouch, died Saturday, March 31, 2012. She was a daughter of the late Joseph Edward and Emmie Scott Cullum and was the last surviving member of a family of 12 brothers and sisters. Mrs. Crouch retired from the U.S. Postal Service. She was a former member of the Johnston Lions Club, was a lifetime member of Johnston First Baptist Church, the Johnson/Holston Circle, Gleaners Sunday School Class and the Chancel Choir. Survivors include six nephews, three nieces, a number of great nieces and nephews and faithful friend and companion, Janie Thurmond. Mrs. Crouch had a host of friends and was a frequent visitor to the hospital and to the nursing home. She will be missed greatly by family and friends. Memorials may be made to Johnston First Baptist Church, 700 Church St., Johnston, RIDGE SPRING Funeral services for SC 29832. Sign guestbook and send condoDennis Jonathan Stroman were held Thurslences to family at www.blandfh.com. day, March 22, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Chinquapin Baptist Church, Batesburg, SC. Burial was in the church cemetery. Survivors are wife, RIDGE SPRING Graveside services for Tonya D. Stroman, Ridge Spring, SC; two Sandra Cato Sawyer, 62, were conducted at 3 sons, Jonathan T. Stroman, Markus D. Strop.m. Thursday, March 22, 2012, at the Ridge man both of Ridge Spring, SC; mother, ElizaSpring Cemetery with the Rev. Dow Welsh beth Stroman, Batesburg, SC; 2 granddaughand Rev. Chris Yeargin officiating. Visitation ters, Ta-khia Stroman, Sha-mya Stroman of was Wednesday evening at Barr-Price Funeral Batesburg, SC; two sisters, Rosa M. Brown, Home, and the family will also receive friends Linda Stroman both of Batesburg, SC; three following the service. The family suggests brothers, Howard Stroman, Joe Stroman, that memorials be made to a favorite charity Iradell Stroman all of Batesburg, SC. of ones choice. Barr-Price Funeral Home and Crematorium, Historic Batesburg-Leesville Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. AIKEN Mrs. Shelby McFee Young, 60, Mrs. Sawyer died peacefully at her resi- widow of Tony Edward Young, died Wednesdence on Monday, March 19, 2012, while day, April 11, 2012. surrounded by her family. Born in Columbia, Born in Batesburg, SC, Mrs. Young was the she was the daughter of the late James Wil- daughter of the late James and Jonita Parrish liams Cato and Faye Taylor Cato. She was McFee. Being an Aiken native her entire life, a member of Ridge Spring Baptist Church Mrs. Young worked as a seamstress and for where on two occasions, for a total of 28 years, Wal-Mart. She was also a member of Levels she served as church pianist. She was mar- Baptist Church. Mrs. Young will be missed by ried to C. David Sawyer Jr. for 36 years, and many as a loving mother and grandmother. because of her marriage to David, she was an She is survived by a son, Tony Eric (Jessica)

Jimmie O. Jim Jamison

Dennis Jonathan Stroman

Sandra Cato Sawyer

BATESBURG-LEESVILLE Services for Jimmie O. Jim Jamison, 70, were conducted at 11 a.m. on Friday, April 6, 2012, at Barr-Price Funeral Home, Historic Batesburg-Leesville Chapel. Interment follow at in Hill Crest Memorial Park, Augusta, GA. Memorials may be made to The Rotary Foundation, 14280 Collections Center Drive, Chicago, IL 60693. Mr. Jamison passed away Tuesday, April 3, 2012. Born in Ft. Benning, GA, he was a son of Mildred Palmer Jamison and the late Oran Curtis Jamison. He was a member of St. Pauls Episcopal Church, the B-L Masonic Lodge, One Voice of Lexington County, and served his country in the U.S. Army. Jim was a member and Past President of Twin City Rotary and the B-L Chamber of Commerce, was serving as Treasurer of the Leesville Merchants Association and the Batesburg Business Association. Surviving are his wife, Ginny Jamison; his mother; sons, James Derek (Gail) Jamison Fitzgerald and O.C. Jamie (Becky) Jamison, II; daughter, Daralyn Christensen; brother, Ronnie M. (Joyce) Jamison; sister, Linda J. (Davis) Blackston; grandchildren, Savannah Fitzgerald, Connor, Liam, and Lily Jamison. Online register at Barr-Price. com (803) 532-4411

Much appreciation to the community

John Burkett, son of the late James Burkett and Rosa Lee Gibson Burkett, entered into this world in January 1928 and departed Jan. 4, 2012. He was a small man of few words but a giant of the educational field. He graduated from Ridge Hill High School and continued his education by attending Allen University, receiving a bachelors degree and then proceeded to earn a doctoral degree in English. Johnnie stayed on the deans list throughout college. He joined the Reedy Branch Baptist Church at an early age. He was the oldest deacon in the church, and he loved his church and church family. We, the family of the late Johnnie Burkett, would like to thank all those who participated in efforts to save Johnnies life from the EMS to the fire department and all those in between. Great gratitude goes out to family, friends and church members that comforted us in our time of grieving, whether it was a phone call, card or visit or just a prayer on our behalf. We would like to give special thanks to Davis Funeral Home for the great care and services that they rendered the family during our time of mourning. The family greatly appreciates all of the efforts made to comfort us in this time. If calls were not returned, cards were not acknowledged, please believe that it was all greatly appreciated. Your gestures did not go unnoticed, but it was emotionally hard to respond. Thank you so much and God bless! With love, His niece, Rosa

Norwood C. Williams

Shelby McFee Young

EDGEFIELD Mr. Norwood Chresswell Williams, 81, of Hammond Road, died Sunday April 8, 2012 at his residence. A Memorial Service will be held Wednesday, April 11, 2012, at 11 a.m. at All Saints Episcopal Church in Beech Island. Mr. Williams was born in Edgefield, S.C. and was a member of All Saints Episcopal Church. He was a Piano Technician. Survivors include three sisters, Aline W. Crouch, Miriam W. Saggus, and Ann W. Breuer; his Business Partner, William D. Grace. Sign the register book at www.edgefieldmercantilefh.com.

12 Ridge Spring Monthly Wednesday, April 18, 2012

BOOK REVIEW A Conflict of Interest

BY DAVID MARSHALL JAMES
This first novel by New York attorney Adam Mitzner (surprise its a legal thriller), fresh out in paperback, was published in hardcover this past year. In this new format, the book will be easier to place on your nightstand, to slip into your tote and to otherwise tote it wherever youre headed this summer because youll definitely want to place it on your To Read list. Moreover, its the sort of novel you can pass around to family members or to your significant other. For, the plot is tied into marriages and the tests that wedded unions endure from extramarital temptations. In A Conflict of Interest, those marriages would be that of the protagonist Alex Miller just turned 35 and a litigation partner at an uppity-up (literally) Manhattan law firm and that of his parents. At the novels outset, Alexs father has died unexpectedly. During the funeral, in Palm Beach, Fla., Alex meets a man who has loomed large in his parents lives, beginning at their introduction. However, Alex has only heard about Michael Ohlig. He has never come faceto-face with this fabled shadow over his parents marriage. Michael happens to be a friend in need of a good attorney. The Feds are all up in his business because it reeks of SEC violations. Michaels boutique financial group in Florida has unloaded a bunch of penny stocks on unsuspecting seniors who should have been more suspect. The stock has quickly become worthless, but not before Ohlig has netted $150 million from the sale.

CAN YOU HELP?

Well, all the better to drop a $2 million retainer with Alexs law firm. Boy, is Michael going to need Alex. From this premise, Mitzner mints a golden legal thriller, with plenty of courtroom drama and insider information on the methodologies and terminologies of attorneys of multiple stripes, including prosecutors and defenders, in federal and state courts. The author ultimately carries out two trials. Theyre so involving that your palms will probably be sweating when the jury foreman hands the verdict to the judge, in both instances. Erle Stanley Gardner would be pleased. If that reference is too remote, how about: This is as good as Grisham.

Do you know these Ridge Spring graduates? Larry Rankins mother Ella Sawyer Rankin is second row, first on left, but he would love to know the others. He knows it was taken in the early 1940s but doesnt know which year. Rankin would love your help in identifying these seniors. If you can help, please call him at (803) 532-5422.

Sign up for my Legislative Update Newsletter at:

www.TaylorSCHouse.com Bill@TaylorSCHouse.com
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or email me at:

Wednesday, April 18, 2012 Ridge Spring Monthly 13

FROM RIDGE SPRING TO SERENITY TREE IN DILLON, MONT.

Artist Travis Nicely: Urn designer
hunting and trapping. From the bear rug hanging on his wall to the tools in his shop, he was tried and true Montana boy. Unfortunately he met one mountain he could not climb, one giant tree he could not fell. He lost his life to cancer after only 49 short but well-filled years. After a little thought, I grabbed a chainsaw and took off for the hills. I didnt know what I was looking for, just something that told his story. What I did know is a square wooden box was not it; thats not the man he was. I blundered around until I came across a pine tree that was broken off about 6 feet from the ground that had a unique cat face naturally carved in the side. I stared at the splintered stump of what used to be a magnificent tree, jutting out of SUBMITTED PHOTO the hill side. I pictured the tree as it would TELLING HIS STORY: One of the urns that have been before it fell, swaying in a wind Travis Nicely has designed. storm, weakened by the pine beetles being twisted and pushed until no longer able to ing, mechanic to sheriffs department, to take the hammering of Mother Natures him and his wife running their own saw wind, finally breaking its trunk and crashmill and archery shop. He was a logger, ing to the ground. built log furniture and taught shop class I knew I had found what I was looking (which I would say was his true passion), for. It told a story; it told his story. teaching kids and teenagers to build and to Travis continues the search for the right work. piece for the right person. Check out his He loved the outdoors, the mountains, website at www.myserenitytree.com.

Ridge Heritage Quilt Trail

The Ridge Heritage Quilt Trail in Ridge Spring invites you to show your old handmade quilts during the month of May. They will be display in the Art Center in Ridge Spring. Along with fabric quilts, there will be art work by the members of the Art Association of Ridge Spring using quilts as the theme of their work. On May 26, at 10:30 a.m., the Ridge Heritage Quilt Trail will unveil the first three quilt blocks that the group have painted. These blocks will be hung in front of the Art Center. Everyone is invited to come and enjoy our heritage of quilts. If you have a quilt you would like to share with the community, and if you have a block you would like painted to hang on your building, contact Barbara Yon at 685-5386.

Artist Travis Nicely was born and raised in Ligonier, Pa. He has three brothers. Travis dad died from cancer in 1995. He moved to Ridge Spring in June 1996 with his mom and stepdad, Sue and Gene Ray Fulmer and graduated from Wyman King Academy in 1999. In January 2004, he joined the Army and was NICELY a soldier in the Airborne Rangers. He served three terms in Iraq. He married Tanna Bricker in 2011 and now resides in Dillon, Mont., where he creates his urns. Here is Travis story: After the passing of a true friend and one of the most genuine people that I have had the privilege of knowing, his wife came to me and asked if I would build an urn for him. Guess the Farmer Brothers coffee can just wasnt good enough (which was his joke to his wife). Now you have to get to know Red as his kids called him just a little bit. He was always working, staying busy on something, and held many positions, titles and occupations from ranching to weld-

Settlers Crossin Primitives

Settlers Crossin Primitives in Ridge Spring is celebrating its first year on April 21 with a book signing and a special guest. Jennifer Cunningham, the author of the book Simple Times will be at the shop to sign copies from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. The special guest will be Jennifer Gass from August. Jennifer Gass does beautiful stitchery on samplers. There will be refreshments, as well as door prizes. The store is located at 502 E. Main St., and its phone number is (803) 685-7144.

14 Ridge Spring Monthly Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Wednesday, April 18, 2012 Ridge Spring Monthly 15

CHURCH SERVICES
Ridge Spring Baptist Pastor: Chris Yeargin Sunday Services Sunday School: 10 a.m. Morning worship: 11 a.m. Evening worship: 7 p.m. Wednesday prayer: 7 p.m. Ridge Spring United Methodist Church, 206 Dubose St., Ridge Spring Sunday Morning Worship: 11 a.m. Pastor: John Kneece Info: 803-532-2354 Spann United Methodist Church, Church St., Ward Sunday Morning Worship: 9:45 a.m. Pastor: John Kneece Info: 803-532-2354 The Episcopal Church of the Ridge is a mission of three small churches Edgefield, Trenton and Ridge Spring meeting on a rotational basis. Calling the church office at (803) 275-3934 will give you the location for that Sunday. Every third Sunday church is in Ridge Spring. The church sign also shows where church will be each Sunday. Bible study is at 9 a.m. with services at 10 a.m. Rev. Tom DiMarco is now the minister. Ward Baptist Church Sunday School: 10:00 Worship Service: 11:00 (no Sunday night or Wednesday night services) Rev. Charles A. Bodie is pastor. The address of the church is P.O. Box 125, Ward Physical address: 125 Ward Ave., Ward, SC 29166 Mount Alpha Baptist Church Located on Front Street, Ward, SC Sunday School: 10 a.m. Church Service: 11 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Eldwin Griffin Ridge Hill Baptist Church, 144 Ridge Hill Drive, Ridge Spring, SC 29129 Worship Service 1st through 4th Sundays: Church Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Service 10:30 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Donald G. Hall Jerusalem Baptist Church 4185 Columbia Highway, North Ridge Spring, SC 29129 Rev. Sim E. Murray, pastor Sunday School 9:00 to 9:45 Church service 10:15 Bible Study Wednesday 7:00 to 8:00 Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, 1186 Mt. Calvary Road, Johnston Pastor John Wertz is interim pastor Sunday School at 10 a.m., Worship at 11 a.m. The service can be heard each Sunday afternoon at 1 p.m. on WKSX 92.7 Communion is celebrated on the first Sunday of each month and all major festival days of the church. We are Equipping the Saints for Ministry. St. Williams Catholic Church 1199 Ridge Spring Highway Ward, SC 29166 Rev. Jose Rodolfo Lache-Avila Administrator (803) 924-3400 Email - stwill@pbtcomm.net Mass Schedule Saturday 6 p.m. Misa en Espanol (Spanish Mass) Sunday 9:45 a.m. rosary 10:15 a.m. Mass Wednesday 7 p.m. Mass Mount Pleasant Baptist Church 164 Mount Pleasant Road Ridge Spring, SC 29129 Phone: 803-295-3421 Email: churchoffice@mountpleasantbaptist.net Pastor is Rev. Vollie Gibbs; Worship Leader is Jeff Faulk Service Time: Sunday School: 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship: 11 a.m. Wednesday: Supper: 6 p.m. Prayer Meeting: 7 p.m. Wed. Missions/Preschool Youth Leap of Faith Outreach Ministries 108 Pecan Grove Road Ridge Spring, SC 29129 Services are Sundays at 10 a.m. Ministers: Apostle Peter and Virginia Blacks Young Second Baptist Church Pastor Oscar J. Boyd Sunday School: 9:30 a.m.; worship: 10:15 a.m.; Wednesday Bible Study: 7 p.m.

From the apostles desk:

The Tomb is EMPTY! Matthew 28:1-10 So its said that the tomb is empty. After the Word of God has gone forth, theres no need to go looking for a man. Yes, Jesus came in the flesh, but when he went away, he said that he would send us a comforter, which is the Holy Spirit. Now all who wear crosses I leave this with you the Lord cant be found on the cross, theres no power in that cross around your neck. The power that you seek is from the Holy Spirit. Hes not in the tomb; hes not in the grave. The Lord Jesus lives; hes not dead. If you feel empty and alone, try the true and living God Jesus Christ has risen! Now its your time to rise. Get up, you

who are asleep, and take up your cross and follow the Lord Jesus. Some of you may feel alone, might have lost a loved one or dont know how youre going to make it. Im here to let you know that the tomb is empty, and Jesus lives. So remember on this Easter Sunday that the tomb is empty! Go tell everybody you know that the tomb is empty; Jesus has risen! A special thank you to Ridge Spring Councilwoman Geneva Harris for the water donation to Kids Korner and to all parents who allowed their kids to participate. We encourage all kids to come out on Saturday mornings from 10 a.m. until noon for a day of fun and refreshment of the body, mind and soul. We need donations so all are welcome.

UPCOMING EVENTS
Benefit yard sale will be held on Saturday, May 5
A yard sale will be held on Saturday, May 5, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the corner of Highway 121 and Ridge Road (Rock Ridge Nursery) in Johnston. There will be lots of good items priced to sell. All proceeds go Mt. Calvary Lutheran Churchs Kangaroo Kids Backpack Ministry. This ministry provides food each weekend during the school year for children at Douglas Elementary School in Trenton.

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From the apostles desk:

As I was kneeling this morning, the Lord said, Tell the people that prayer really does change things. As some may or may not know, I, Apostle Peter Blacks, am the founder and an apostle of the Leap of Faith Outreach Ministries. We are located at 108 Pecan Grove in Ridge Spring, right behind Kents Korner. I was called to the apostleship by Jesus Christ over six years ago. My wife, Virginia Blacks, and our 21-year-old son Eric are our two pastors. My wife and I are the

proud parents of nine children and 1 grandson. You all are invited to come worship with us. Every Sunday we have Empowerment classes beginning at 10 a.m. and Sunday services following. Every Wednesday, we have Empowerment classes beginning at 6 p.m. Every Saturday we have a Get Fit For Christ class beginning at 10 a.m. Give a word, then we either work out in the gym at the back or walk around town. Young, old or even young at heart, come and be bless by the power and the move of God.

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Sherrie Stewart

NBC/HISDispenser/Dealer Hearing Care Professional SC Lic. #398 GA Lic. #648 for over 20 years

American Owned American Operated Made in the USA

AS05-717922

The Hearing Center

16 Ridge Spring Monthly Wednesday, April 18, 2012