Welcome once again to my nook, where the pendulum of topics I touch seems to swing in two opposite directions: things I love or hate. This week, I’m embracing hatred — sort of.

You know when the world feels immensely heavy, so all you want to do is crawl under a rock and hope it magically gets better? That’s where I’m at right now. I understand it’s counterproductive to not actually do something to create change in society, but I’m not feeling optimistic — and that’s OK. Right now, I just need to fall off the face of the Earth (during my free time, of course) as a coping mechanism.

To do that, I venture into secret gardens in my mind that consist of literally touching grass, reading a book or going to the movies. I want to pick up a new hobby this year — knitting — but I haven’t brought that idea into fruition quite yet.

My latest form of escapism has been watching Vanderpump Rules, a reality TV show that almost feels like a CW original series, except it’s a bunch of late 20-somethings who work at Lisa Vanderpump’s restaurant called Sur. That’s the beauty of having different coping mechanisms.

I love, yet also hate, getting deeply invested in some form of art because, for once, all my issues vanish. I love and hate the tight feeling in my chest while watching Titanic as Rose releases Jack into the ocean (yes, she did have enough space for both of them on that piece of furniture, and I won’t go into further discussion). Remembering that Rose does not have a picture of Jack, so all of him only lives in her memory and dreams. The fact that Jack basically sacrificed his life so Rose could finally live her life to her full potential — my poor heartstrings. For those three hours, I’m not thinking about filing my taxes.

For 45 minutes, my brain gets a break from our current climate because I’m invested in finding out whether Tom Sandoval from Vanderpump Rules cheated on his longtime girlfriend, Kristen Doute — who puts Sherlock Holmes to shame. She’s an absolute nut job, but she conducts boots-on-the-ground journalism and always ends up being correct. It’s fascinating to watch.

I’m a sucker for excellent one-liners that stick with you for a lifetime, and trust me, this show provides them. I also like consuming new media as a form of inspiration. My best ideas hatch while watching the most mundane or moving art forms. They also happen at midnight, when I can’t get myself to go to bed.

I try to watch as many “educational” forms of art as possible because knowledge is power — even when it comes from reality TV. At the end of the day, I love to learn. Despite my tangent about reality television, I want to read more literary classics, so I’m open to any recommendations.

When I read books, I tend to pick up new words or phrases. If you see me heavily using a word, it’s most likely because it was recently added to my vocabulary. Reading has also made me a fanatic of em dashes. I loathe semicolons, and I feel like em dashes really make a point stand out.

I also pick up the phrases of people I’m around often. I remember starting to incorporate the word “buddy” after living with my college roommate. Along the way, she adopted my lingo, too. There are some movie classics I refuse to watch because film bros have been beyond annoying about them — sorry to The Godfather. Maybe one day I’ll give it a chance, just so I can fully understand the references woven into pop culture.

I guess that’s where the love-and-hate relationship comes in. I love the escape, and I hate that I need it. I love getting lost in stories, and I hate how quickly they end. Whether it’s through a book, a movie or a reality TV show I’ll defend with my life, these stories give me somewhere to rest my mind when the world feels too loud. These stories give me space to learn, reflect and breathe before returning to reality. For now, that’s enough — one book, one show and one em dash at a time.

EASLEY — The last nine months, Capris of Easley Italian Cuisine has not missed a beat.

A big reason is because of Derrick Ouzts, the new owner. He has kept the classy restaurant to a high level - the dimly lit dining room, the mini arches inside, the warm decor to visit with loved ones at your table and the high ceilings. The large portions of quality food with the hot bread and butter continues, too.

And without any windows in the eating area, you seem to forget what is going on outside. You don’t see people on their cell photos while sitting down and eating a good meal.

“The taste of the food is important and just equally important is how did they feel about there experience,” Ouzts said.

So, what is the future of Capris of Easley (at 5667 Calhoun Memorial Highway)?

Ouzts said that they will be relocating by March of 2028 (when the lease is up) and the restaurant will remain in Easley.

“If we find a great location in May, I would move it sooner,” Ouzts said.

You can bet that Ouzts, though, will be selective in the relocation process of Capris.

“I want it (the new location) t0 maybe not be identical, but a place to create family memories,” he said. “That’s one of the reasons this place is so entrenched in a lot of peoples minds. They came here with their parents or with a date. There is a feeling that is closely associated with it. That’s what I want to continue to focus on. How does it make you feel? Does it put a smile on your face. The nostalgic. I have to look at ways of building on that.”

In the future, this type of “family environment” and heartfelt memories will surely continue wherever Capris ends up.

“I like the fact that it has a customer base that loves the Capris Easley brand, and they love the Capris community,” Ouzts said. “This location belongs to the community. I’m just the proprietor so to speak. It belongs to the community. I just focus on the business.”

Continued Ouzts, “I look at it two different ways … it’s mine and I get the final say, but I don’t make decisions on solely what I want. I try to make decisions on what is in the best interest of the health and sustainability for the Capris of Easley.”

EASLEY — Last week, Steve Garrison and Gregg Powell met to talk about an upcoming event in Easley. They could have talked about it for days, especially since it featured their favorite sport of baseball and some heartfelt memories.

Garrison and Powell are looking to celebrate and honor close to 60 years of American Legion baseball for Post 52 on Friday, May 29 at the J.B. Red Owens Sports Complex. There will be a special banquet on that day at the Larry Bagwell Gymnasium at 3:30 p.m. to honor the Post 52 alumni who can make it back. Then, the current Post 52 baseball team will host the Spartanburg Legion baseball team. Both the banquet (that will have a sit down dinner and featured speakers) and the entrance to the game will be free.

“This night that we’re planning means a lot to me because Easley needs community involvement again for its athletics at the high school and the American Legion to ever be prominent again,” said Garrison, a 1977 graduate of Easley High School who was a standout first baseman. “We have to have the community backing these kids. Kids are our No. 1 resource in America and the future. I will be disappointed if the city of Easley does not come out for this night or at least to the game. I want fans of the history of Easley baseball to take this as a serious time and a pivotal time of the history of their kids and grand kids - to tell their stories about American Legion and the camaraderie we developed with other communities in the upstate, and come together and was successful.”

Added Coach Powell, “It’s our hometown and one of the best programs that has been in Pickens County in the last 60 years - Post 52 baseball. It goes back so far - 60 years - with Pickens, Liberty, Easley, Daniel, Carolina High School and Berea - all the people that we drew from. We want them to come back to this special night. We hope that we have 1,000 people there to show up.”

Some of the great tradition of Post 52 will be featured on that day, too. The major theme of this event (listed on the flyers) is: “The Old and The New.”

Randy Bray, who served 25 years as the head coach and six years as an assistant coach of Post 52, is also looking forward to this big day.

Coach Bray took some time to reflect back on the unfortunate situation of when his son (Justin) died in a car accident on June 13, 1999. Justin had played legion baseball for his dad for 4 1/2 years before dying early. The memory of Justin will also be featured on May 29.

“Everybody thinks their children are special and I believe that too,” said Coach Bray, who served as the head coach of that Legion State Championship team in 2001. “I missed a lot of his (Justin’s) all-star games when he was growing up because I was coaching legion all summer. I told JB (Owens) that I was going to give it up when Justin was 13 (years old) and I didn’t tell him. He came home one day and said dad are you going to give up legion? I said yeah Justin I’ve missed all your games. He looked at me and was about to cry, and said I don’t want you to give it up. I want you to coach me (on Post 52). What a great feeling for your child to say that to you. Justin loved legion baseball.”

Powell, meanwhile, coached with Bray for 28 years and he still remembers that unfortunate day in 1999.

“Justin was a special kid and I knew him from the time he was born,” Powell said. “It was just a heartbreaking event. We played Greenwood over to Alice on Saturday night and after the game we all went to Pete’s to eat and Justin never made it home. So, we got the call Sunday morning that he had tragically been in an accident. You can’t describe the love that we have for his family and his parents. We still hold Justin dear to our heart.”

Post 285 Honor Guard: The Easley American Legion Honor Guard, led by Rick Stover, already has May 29 penciled in to perform Colors on that day.

From the scrapbook: David Posey, a 1979 graduate of Wren High School, was regarded as having one of the best arms from left field in Post 52 Legion history.

There is still a laminated article that Coach Bray has - from a game that saw Easley play Irma - that talks about when Posey made a key throw in the ninth inning of the game. The late Eddie Barbary was the head coach at the time and he described Posey’s memorable throw in the cherished article.

“Posey’s got one of the best arms on the team,” said Barbary, in the article. “I told (assistant coach) Randy (Bray), ‘If he can field it, he’ll throw him out.’ And he came in on the ball well, fielded it on the second hop, and … zip! Without Posey, we can take our uniforms off till next year. David Posey’s name ought to be in the headline.”

And it was printed in the headline of the newspaper in the next edition … ‘Posey’s Name Ought To Be In The Headline.”

Bat Girls returning: Local sisters Julie (Lesley) Ellison and Carol Jo (Lesley) Baumgarner were bat girls growing up in Easley for Post 52 for a combined 10 years. And to help bring back that tradition of Post 52, they both said they will return as bat girls on May 29. It’s the “extra things” like this that is going to make it a fun-filled event.

Contacting Coach Powell: If anyone has any questions or comments about the big night on May 29 (or wants to let us know they can make it for the banquet), feel free to call or text Gregg Powell at: (864) 419-9793.

PICKENS COUNTY — The Clemson University Tiger Band has been selected to appear in the Juried Marching Band Video Presentations at the 2026 College Band Directors National Association (CBDNA) Southern Division Conference. The ensemble was chosen through an anonymous adjudication process conducted by college band directors from across the region. The presentations will showcase Tiger Band’s “Wicked” halftime show, originally performed during the Clemson vs. Florida State game in the 2025 football season.

This year, the University of South Florida in Tampa will host the conference, with marching band presentations on Saturday, February 21, at 8:30 a.m. The presentations will offer conference attendees the opportunity to engage with exemplary marching band performances from across the Southern Division. Clemson University Tiger Band was chosen alongside a small group of peer institutions, including the University of Georgia, the University of Tennessee, Western Carolina University, and more.

“Our selection for performance at the CBDNA Southern Division represents the pinnacle of achievement in the eleven states that comprise the division,” said Mark Spede, director of bands at Clemson University. “This is not the first time Tiger Band has achieved this recognition; in 2007, 2011, and 2019, we were selected for the national conference, and in 2008 and 2011 for the Southern Division.”

The Clemson University Tiger Band is under the direction of Mark Spede, Timothy Hurlburt, and Caroline Wright Pfisterer. The ensemble’s “Wicked” performance will be presented as a video performance at the conference.

The SCDOT has updated its highway paving list for the next year or two.

US 178 from the Anderson line to Liberty (to the Spinx), has been patched and an intermediate layer has been put down. The final layer of asphalt will be added when it get much warmer.

US 178 from Mauldin Lake Road north to Main Street, Pickens, the SCDOT has begun to patch it. More patching needs to be done as that section is in poor condition in many other places. When it heats up, they’ll mill it slightly and put down a final layer of asphalt.

US 93 from US 123 through downtown Easley to SC 8. The SCDOT started to patch this. It will be milled and repaved with a final coat when it heats up.

SC 8 from Ross Avenue (4-ways stop just above US 123), northward past the old Woodside Mill to the top of the hill just before the Arial Plant (at Mulberry Rd) will be repaved. It appears the SCDOT has not started on this.

In 2027 the SCDOT will put out for bid repaving SC 183 from Pickens to SC 135 (including Fairland Flats). Also out for bid will be repaving SC 124, from US 123 to the Greenville line.

Additionally about a 2 mile stretch of US 123 from US 178 to Adger Road will be patched. I’m not sure if that will be repaved. The SCDOT was not clear on that.

The state bridge that collapsed on SC 133 will be re-opened February 28. Bad news, the SCDOT will shut down the SC 8 bridge (by the Pumpkintown General Store) in February. How long? Who knows.

Don’t shoot the messenger. I’m a county rep and only relaying what the state has announced.

The county replaced 26 culverts in the past year or so, 7 of which were major in size. In the Pickens area, my district, major culverts gave way on Rocky Bottom Road and Country Creek Road behind Aunt Sue’s (by the Table Rock recycle center). Rocky Bottom’s culverts are now new and that road has been open bow to stern.

Country Creek’s culverts (one major and another minor) are being replaced now and that road will be re-opened this month.

Alex Saitta

Pickens, SC

CENTRAL — Southern Wesleyan University (SWU) was named South Carolina Employer of the Year at the 2025 SC Transition Awards, presented by the Transition Alliance of South Carolina. The award recognizes employers that demonstrate exceptional commitment to creating meaningful employment opportunities for students with disabilities.

The award recognizes a five-year partnership between Southern Wesleyan University and the Pickens County School District that provides hands-on, work-based learning opportunities for students through the district’s Scholar Technician initiative.

Led by Rob Bowling, Southern Wesleyan University Grounds Superintendent, students who participate in the program gain hands-on, real-world job experience in a supportive campus environment. Interns work alongside SWU staff learning essential workforce skills while performing meaningful tasks including equipment operation, seasonal landscaping, athletic field maintenance, holiday décor installation, and campus beautification projects.

“The majority of the students who come to SWU through this program have some type of disability, however, they are eager to learn and each student brings a particular skill that shines,” Bowling said. “The key is finding that skill and stretching it to fit day-to-day tasks, so they have a real chance to succeed in the workforce. I’ve hired two students from this program, and both have excelled in their roles here at SWU and continue to grow each day.”

Bowling credited Stephanie Leopard, special education teacher and work-based learning instructor with the School District of Pickens County, for introducing him to the program and helping facilitate the partnership. Leopard oversees the district’s SC High School Employability and work-based learning initiatives, supporting juniors and seniors as they prepare for employment or postsecondary education.

In addition to providing long-term employment opportunities for program graduates, Southern Wesleyan University has extended its commitment to inclusive community engagement by hosting the Area 13 Special Olympics Spring Games for the past three years. The 2025 event, held April 11 at the Joe R. Gilbert Track and Field, welcomed more than 850 athletes from Pickens and Oconee counties. Themed “Saddle Up for Special Olympics,” the event celebrated perseverance, teamwork, and the value of every athlete.

The SC Employer of the Year Award is presented annually to an individual or organization that demonstrates outstanding dedication to advancing employment opportunities for students with disabilities. Southern Wesleyan University’s selection underscores its commitment to servant leadership, inclusive opportunity, and preparing individuals of all abilities to flourish in the workforce and community.

PICKENS COUNTY — Recent cold temperatures, snow and ice across South Carolina have caused significant winter injury in cool‑season forage stands. Clemson University forage specialists urge producers to assess their fields carefully in the coming weeks.

Liliane Silva, Clemson Extension forage-livestock systems specialist stationed at the Edisto Research and Education Center near Blackville, South Carolina, said cool‑season forages, including tall fescue, small grains, legumes and brassicas, are showing varying levels of stress due to a combination of prolonged early‑season drought, delayed planting and extended exposure to subfreezing temperatures.

“This year, we experienced dry conditions followed by lower‑than‑normal temperatures beginning in early fall,” Silva said. “That combination delayed establishment and left many stands vulnerable to cold injury.”

Cool‑season forage growth typically occurs between 65 and 78 degrees. Growth slows sharply below 50 degrees and stops at freezing, leaving many stands unable to recover before the coldest weather arrives. Prolonged freezing can also rupture plant cells, resulting in yellowing, tissue death, leaf rolling and stunted growth.

“Some damage takes several days to show fully,” Silva said. “Producers should walk their fields repeatedly over the next week to understand the extent of injury and determine what to do.”

Assessing stands, making grazing decisions

Silva encourages producers to evaluate stands before grazing. Symptoms such as yellowing, necrosis and loss of growing points may signal long‑term injury or winter kill. In heavily damaged fields, limited grazing may be appropriate to use the remaining forage. But don’t remove too much leaf area.

“If stands can be grazed, make sure to leave adequate stubble to support recovery,” she said. “Overgrazing now will only increase the risk of continued cold‑related stress.”

Replanting not recommended under current conditions

With subfreezing temperatures expected to continue, Silva says replanting cool‑season annuals is generally not advisable. Late planting dramatically reduces potential forage yield. Seedlings emerging now would likely face additional freeze injury.

“Replanting should be considered only on a case‑by‑case basis,” she said. “Most producers would get little return on that investment given the limited growing season left.”

Mixtures and tall fescue showing mixed results

Tall fescue stands appear to be holding up better than many annuals due to the species’ natural cold tolerance and protective waxy leaf surface. However, mixed-species stands containing grasses, legumes and brassicas are showing patchy injury, depending on exposure and species composition.

“In our research plots, brassicas struggled early, but mixed stands provided microclimates that helped some plants withstand the cold better,” said Silva, noting forage diversity can serve as “insurance” during harsh seasons.

Monitor warm-season grasses

Dormant bermudagrass and bahiagrass stands may also be affected by recent warm spells that briefly signaled springlike conditions. If early sprouting occurred, plants may have depleted energy reserves before returning to dormancy.

Silva recommends checking warm‑season pastures for winter loss once spring growth begins.

Plan for resilient forage systems

Silva encourages producers to work with local Extension livestock and forage agents for tailored recommendations. Proper nutrient management, sound grazing strategies and selection of cold‑tolerant varieties are key long‑term strategies for building more resilient systems.

“Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent,” she said. “It is important that producers plan. Choosing adapted forage varieties, managing nutrients well and protecting stands through using good grazing practices will help producers maintain productivity even in challenging years.”

CLEMSON — The Atlantic Coast Conference announced its 2026 football schedule on Monday evening, unveiling Clemson’s full 2026 regular season slate on ACC Network and ESPN2. Clemson will kick off its 2026 season on Saturday, Sept. 5, when it faces the LSU Tigers at Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge, La.

Clemson’s 2026 schedule will include a seven-game home slate. Among others, the visitors to Memorial Stadium include multi-time Super Bowl champion Bill Belichick’s North Carolina Tar Heels, the College Football Playoff runner-up Miami Hurricanes, the Virginia Tech Hokies in their first season under the guidance of James Franklin, and the South Carolina Gamecocks.

Clemson’s full 2026 schedule is included below. All kickoff times are TBA.

2026 Clemson Football Schedule

(Home games BOLDED; all games on Saturdays unless otherwise noted)

Sept. 5: at LSU

Sept. 12: vs. GEORGIA SOUTHERN

Sept. 19: vs. NORTH CAROLINA

Sept. 25 (Fri.): at Cal

Oct. 3: vs. MIAMI (FLA.)

Oct. 10: Open Date

Oct. 17: vs. CHARLESTON SOUTHERN

Oct. 24: vs. VIRGINIA TECH

Oct. 31: at Florida State

Nov. 6 (Fri.) -OR- Nov. 7: at Syracuse*

Nov. 14: vs. GEORGIA TECH

Nov. 21: at Duke

Nov. 28: vs. SOUTH CAROLINA

*Game subject to flex scheduling. The game’s selection for Friday or Saturday will be announced at a later date.

Gameday designations for the 2026 season will be announced at a later date.

In order to receive the 2026 online football season ticket and parking application, all IPTAY donors must pledge and complete 50 percent of their IPTAY 2026 donation by Sunday, Feb. 15 at ClemsonTigers.com/IPTAY. IPTAY donors who have completed at least 50 percent of their pledge can request football season tickets and parking in early spring.

More information on ticketing for the 2026 Clemson Football season will be available at ClemsonTigers.com/FootballTickets or by calling 1-800-CLEMSON. Fans can also gear up for the 2026 football season online at the Clemson Tigers Store.

The team plans to hold its annual Spring Game at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 28. More information on the 2026 Spring Game will be shared at a later date.

LIBERTY — Sealevel Systems, Inc., a leading provider of rugged, industrial-grade computing and I/O solutions, proudly announces its 40th anniversary in 2026.

As Sealevel commemorates its past and future with a year-long 40th anniversary campaign, “Forty & Forward,” the company will honor the people, products, and partnerships that have defined its first four decades and support its future-ready vision as a trusted partner. Together, they represent a history of reliable, American-made technology for mission-critical needs and the strength that will sustain Sealevel’s momentum in the years ahead.

Husband and wife Tom and Susan O’Hanlan founded the company in 1986. A patent-holding inventor, Tom designed the first-of-its-kind RS-422/485 communication adapter for early IBM PCs, laying the cornerstone for Sealevel’s forward-thinking innovation. That small component was a giant step in how computers communicated, opening the door beyond office tasks and into automation, monitoring, control, and data collection across demanding environments.

Built on Tom’s vision for connectivity and with Susan’s support helping turn that vision into a long-lasting business, Sealevel has grown into a global provider of rugged edge computing and industrial I/O solutions.

“When we look back on how we started and how we’ve grown, it’s inspiring to think about the creativity, energy, and effort that everyone here puts into moving Sealevel and our partners forward,” said Sealevel President Susan O’Hanlan. “We’re proud of what Sealevel has accomplished for our customers around the world, the opportunities it has created for our dedicated employees, and the impact we’ve made across the community that supports us.”

Looking ahead, Sealevel is accelerating into the future with the resourcefulness, capabilities, and investments needed to meet the demands of an increasingly connected and complex world. These initiatives are supported by ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100D-certified processes that help ensure consistent, high-quality performance.

Sealevel’s Forty & Forward campaign will highlight its legacy of proven performance, supported by more than 350 core I/O and rugged computing products available in COTS, semi-custom, and custom configurations. The celebration also reinforces Sealevel’s future-facing commitment to helping customers simplify, streamline, and connect their operations.

Our goal hasn’t changed. From the factory floor to remote field deployments, we’re still focused on advancing computer connectivity so data can move faster, more reliably, and with consistent performance in real time,” Tom O’Hanlan said.

What began as a small operation quickly evolved with changing technology and customer needs. Sealevel outgrew previous Liberty locations in its early years before settling into its headquarters at 2779 Greenville Highway in 2006.

The facility is currently 52,000 square feet, including 20,000 square feet of electrostatic discharge tiling that protects sensitive electronic components. It has been renovated over the years to accommodate equipment, production, and people. Progress continues even now as plans are in place to break ground on the 17-acre site for a second facility this year.

The O’Hanlan’s and Sealevel’s contributions haven’t gone unnoticed. They have earned industry and philanthropic awards through the years. Most recently, Sealevel has been recognized with two state-level honors: Best Innovative Company of the Year—South Carolina Best in Business 2022 Awards; and SC Transformation and Operational Excellence Award—the SCMEP Manufacturing Awards.

Those awards reflect Sealevel’s ongoing advancements in edge computing hardware, including I/O, Wi-Fi, and AI-ready products that support critical applications across sectors, such as:

• Medical

• Aerospace

• Energy and utilities

• Military and defense

• Transportation and public safety

• Industrial automation and manufacturing

Sealevel’s demonstrated commitment to innovation, transformational and operational excellence, and customer satisfaction drives demand. Built for long deployment lifecycles and backed by lifetime warranties, Sealevel’s solutions help customers avoid costly redesigns, manage upgrades, and reduce operational risk.

In response to growing market demand for its products, Sealevel’s employee headcount grew to more than 100 in 2025. This growth reflects increased investment across engineering, manufacturing, and customer support, expanding Sealevel’s capacity to serve customers worldwide and reinforcing its role as a South Carolina-based employer.

A strong dedication to its employees and community is echoed in Sealevel’s charitable giving. In 2025, for example, Sealevel sponsored the traveling Vietnam Veterans Memorial exhibit and contributed to several public-service organizations, while continuing to encourage and reward employees who participate in local causes, volunteer drives, and fundraisers. With a goal of increasing charitable contributions by 38% year-over-year, Sealevel continually deepens its impact both inside and outside the company

For more information about how Sealevel is shaping the future of the rugged computing and I/O industry, visit Sealevel40.com.

As a child growing up in the American South, every winter was met with an eager anticipation that there could possibly, maybe, with divine providence, be a snow day.

The kind of day where actual snowflakes fall on the ground and gather into a collection of white fluffy snow.

I remember waiting all morning, after praying all night, for the school district to finally agree we should all stay home and alert the media. Some of y’all remember having to watch with painful nerve-ridden angst for your school district’s name to finally crawl across the banner at the bottom of the TV screen.

If you were unlucky enough to have a sister county in the other Carolina state, as I was being from Union, N.C., you might even have to wait for it to come by a second time to make sure it was really your school district out for the day.

My family moved around a lot when I was younger because of my dad’s job and one of the houses we stayed in the longest set atop a very steep hill. The kind of steep that when I “rolled” the garbage can down the driveway to the street below as a child my feet usually went air born at least once during the trip.

On our very first snow day in our new house, we awoke to at least half the neighborhood camped out on our front lawn riding down it in sleds and building snowmen and making snow angels off to a relatively flat side of our yard.

I’m sure we can all picture the rapturous joy my father, who never even allowed us so much as the entertainment of the idea of a slip-in-slide [Kids, just ask your parents], felt when he was awoken, early, to the sight.

Yep, that didn’t go well. Needless to say, that neighborhood “habit” slowly petered away over time.

In some fairness to my dad, we found out over the summer that the neighborhood kids also enjoyed careening down our driveway on their bikes. The glaring problem for my dad here was the significant ditch and lake across the street. So, yes, that “habit” died out too.

Back to the snow, my husband, who is originally from the great white north, loves to tell the tale of his first southern snow day.

Picture it: a young Yankee teen enduring his first winter in North Carolina, standing resiliently at the bus stop in an inch of snow in his shorts, not to prove a point, but because it was not cold, when his neighbor comes out and tells him there’s no school.

In disbelief and shock, not from the cold mind you, but from his neighbor’s announcement, my husband trudged inside to tell his parents, who emphatically did not believe him. Adamant he wasn’t going to be missing the bus that morning, his mother sent him right back out to the stop to wait while she verified his little “snow day” story. A few minutes later, with disbelief in her voice, his mother called him back inside.

And, thus, my husband’s love and admiration for a southern snow day was born.

Now that I have kids, I love taking them out sledding or making snow angels. When we briefly lived in a place my husband and I like to call Redbud, N.Y., we taught the locals there about making snow cream, and my daughter and I were introduced to snow mobiling. The latter due to the fact that my husband ran out and bought one on our second day there.

So, what is your favorite way to celebrate a rare southern snow day?

POWDERSVILLE — McClendon Graves wrestled more like a battle-tested senior last week.

The end result: Graves and the Powdersville High School team defeating Palmetto 41-26 and claiming the title of Class 3A region champs.

“It’s been an amazing season,” said Graves, 17, in his fifth year of wrestling on the varsity level. “I’m just grateful that I get to share this experience with my teammates. Tonight, I just wanted to make sure that we handled business as a team. My team pulled through, and it sealed the match.”

Graves, with a 4.3 grade point average, is just focusing on his state run with the Patriots and helping his team hit new heights. “It was a big win tonight,” he said. “We’ve improved a lot. We put in a lot of hard work in the wrestling room and it’s really paid off. I’m really proud of my team and myself.”

Getting pins for the Patriots against Palmetto were Conner Kit, Sam Dykes and Kaemon Smith-Rivera.

Last year, Palmetto was the region champ.

Powdersville claimed that title in 2023 as a region champ.

“Our kids work hard,” said PHS Coach Sean Mascaro. “After the rebuild year last year when we got blown out in this dual, it meant a lot. Our kids went out there and executed the plan. We wrestled physical. I’m just grateful to be able to compete to do it.”

The Patriots team improved to 29-11 on the season.

The momentum continues to build for the Powdersville High School wrestling program.

Powdersville program notes: Die-hard fans of the Patriots wrestling program remember alumni grapplers like Liam McKinney who was a 2017 grad and a state champ at 160 pounds. McKinney went on to wrestle at Limestone University. Dylan Brooks (state champ in 2021 at 132 pounds and a state champ in 2022 at 138 pounds) wrestled at Montreat College. Lastly, Nick Wattenbarger (2021 state champ at 145 pounds and a 2022 state champ at 152 pounds) wrestled at North Carolina State University.

Listed below is the varsity lineup of PHS and several top-notch records.

106: Landon Westhoff (Fr.)

113: Dylan Bray (Jr.)

120: Kaemon Smith-Rivera (Jr.)

126: McClendon Graves (Sr.)

132: Jordan Martinez (So.) 29-5

Alex Stearman (Fr.)

138: West Fleming (Jr.) 39-9

144: Conner Kit (Jr.) 38-8

150: Jackson Holcombe (Jr.) 10-4

Richie Tucker (Jr.)

157: Sam Dykes (So.) 15-5

165: Tommy Coscarelli (Jr.) 13-9

Cohen Birdette (Sr.)

175: Liam Springett (So.) 19-12

190: Nathan McClure (Sr.) 31-7

215: Jayden Jones-Wertz (Jr.) 14-0

Brayden Leopard (Jr.)

Hwt: Dalton Morgan (Sr.)

Head Coach: Sean Mascaro

Maura Kindel puts an exclamation point on the term student athlete.

She starred in volleyball at Powdersville High School and she’s continued that momentum at Anderson University. The 6-foot sophomore is a middle blocker and she’s studying mechanical engineering.

The 20-year-old Kindel is The Easley Progress Athlete of the Week.

Q: Sounds like you had quite a volleyball season at Anderson University, making the Sweet 16. What was that like for you?

KINDEL: It was so amazing to be a part of! We had very high expectations for ourselves as a team, and we knew we had the potential to go far in the tournament. We kept reminding each other of how special it is that we were one of only a handful of teams in the country still playing. Somehow, the love and the excitement for the sport and our team grew every game that we played together, and by the end we really knew that we had something special in our team that not many teams can say that they have. It was so cool to see belief go such a long way!

Q: Every good athlete has a certain driving force that gives them that edge. What is your motivation when you take the volleyball court?

KINDEL: I had someone tell me once that when you walk into any sort of competition, you have to believe that you are the best athlete on that court. And whether that has been true or not (it’s mostly never true) the confidence that it brings me goes a long way. I’ve learned through sports that what you choose to dwell on will eventually mentally take over, so if I am constantly thinking about what could go wrong and what mistakes I could make, I am inevitably going to make those mistakes. But when I choose to think about what could go right, I am filled with confidence instead of fear, and my playing usually follows suit.

Q: What’s it like for you to play a home volleyball match at Anderson University?

KINDEL: It’s so amazing! We have a great crowd show up for every game, and we always have a very dedicated student section that makes the games so fun. I think Anderson has the best home-court atmosphere in the SAC, and I always try to remind myself before every home game how unique it is to be able to go to a school that cares so much.

Q: Take me through a certain volleyball match or play that you’ll always remember from your college volleyball days at AU?

KINDEL: Beating Lenoir-Rhyne in the round of 32 will definitely be a game I’ll never forget. From the first point of that match, I knew that it would be a back and forth battle all night long, but we showed up with a lot to prove after falling to LR in the conference tournament. It was such a high energy game, and we played some of our best volleyball all season that night. Things were clicking, everyone was having fun, and it was definitely one of my favorite games to be a part of :)

Q: Sounds like you had a perfect 4.0 your first three semesters at AU. How have you been able to juggle college volleyball and the academics part of it?

KINDEL: Well technically I have a 3.8! But I’m not gonna lie, it’s been really difficult at times. I’m a mechanical engineering major, so my workload can be pretty extreme, and it’s tough to make time for everything. The biggest thing is using what “free time” I DO have for homework and studying, even when I want to be doing anything but that sometimes. I also learned that it’s simply impossible for me to give my full effort and attention to all 15-18 credit hours and volleyball, so every week I have to pick and choose what’s a priority for that week. My coach encourages academics to come first and is very understanding of heavy workloads or being late to practice because of academics. Every semester I feel like I get a little bit better at juggling everything! So, it’s not easy, but definitely doable.

Q: What was the specific injury you suffered during college, and what was the journey like for you to return to the court?

KINDEL: I tore my ACL and meniscus for the second time in February of my senior year of high school, so that took me out for a full year or so in college. Coming in injured, I knew it was going to feel frustrating not being able to play for an entire season, but looking back, I think it prepared me really well for the world of college sports. I spent every practice doing rehab on the sidelines with my trainer, and physical therapy in the weight room every week or so. With it being the second time I tore the same ACL, I wanted to be really careful with not going back too soon, so it was a pretty slow process. But I got to spend that season just watching everyone play- learning the speed of the game, the plays, the atmosphere. And getting to get out on the court again when I was finally cleared was (honestly) terrifying, but so exciting at the same time! And this season made me see that I was so glad I decided to stick with the rehab process, for the reward of getting to play with my best friends and love the competition.

Q: Beyond the sports part of it, what do you like about Anderson University?

KINDEL: It feels like a second home for me! Me and my roommates (who are also my teammates) clicked right off the bat and they are some of my best friends. The staff here is so supportive, and genuinely cares about all of their students, beyond just the schooling side. Having small class sizes is also so helpful for learning the material well, because our professors can give us their full attention. A lot of our teachers also show up to games to watch us play! With Anderson being a Christian school, you can tell that most people are here for a reason greater than themselves, and that really shows just in the day-to-day interactions with everyone. It’s a great place to go to school, and I would recommend it to anyone.

Q: What does the future look like for you as far as volleyball and after college?

KINDEL: I’ll be graduating May of 2028 (God-willing) with a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. Not sure where I’m going to go or what exactly I’m going to do yet… just trusting the process! As far as volleyball goes, I’m super excited for two more seasons, but I most likely won’t be using my fifth year to play anywhere after graduation.

Q: Can you talk about a special volleyball memory from your days at Powdersville High School?

KINDEL: Winning state was awesome! I don’t have any other specific memories that stand out, but I just remember absolutely loving my senior year and not wanting it to end. We had a great team with amazing girls and I think about them often. Passini’s got a great thing going, and I think back on my time in high school with nothing but love.

Q: How do you handle the conditioning part of it in the off season?

KINDEL: We keep very busy in the off season! We start slow, but our hours ramp up pretty quickly. We have weights four times a week- Coach Jen keeps us working in there-, individuals three times a week, and start practicing more halfway through the season. The off season is really our time to get stronger and work on specific skills that we don’t have the time to focus on in season. We play a few tournaments here and there, but they’re all really fun and just about trying new things out before our real season comes.

Q: What advice would you give a high school athlete wanting to one day play college volleyball?

KINDEL: It’s absolutely worth it, so if you have the option to play somewhere, do it. One piece of advice I would give is to start lifting in your own time if that’s a possibility, because you will be expected to kind of just pick up where the rest of the team is at, so that can be daunting sometimes if you don’t have any experience in the weight room! Learn how to manage your time, because most places you go, you will be expected to maintain good grades while also performing on the court. Just keep putting the work in, and it will pay off at some point! I gained a lot of resilience in high school through conditioning and practices, so don’t ever rush past the place that you are, and it will all work out the way it should.

CENTRAL – Southern Wesleyan University (SWU) recently announced Donna Pittman, Co-Director of the university’s Warriors CARE Center, has been elected to serve on the National Association of Veterans Program Administrators (NAVPA) Board of Directors as the Region IV Delegate for the 2025–2026 term.

NAVPA is a nationally recognized organization dedicated to ensuring that student veterans and military families receive accurate, timely, and high-quality access to their earned educational benefits. Founded in 1975, the association represents veterans program administrators across colleges, universities, trade schools, and apprenticeship programs nationwide.

“I am honored to have been selected to serve in this capacity,” Pittman said. “It is an exciting opportunity to be part of a team that works diligently to advocate for student veterans and military families and to improve educational opportunities. Our veterans and military families make continuous sacrifices and deserve the very best service we can offer — and that is exactly what NAVPA strives to provide. I am proud to be part of this organization.”

In her role as Region IV Delegate, Pittman will collaborate with fellow board members and national partners to support initiatives that enhance and protect GI Bill education benefits. NAVPA’s Board of Directors works closely with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Education, and Department of Defense, while also providing input to congressional Veterans Affairs committees and national higher education organizations.

In a letter announcing the election, NAVPA President Camden Ege expressed appreciation for SWU’s support, noting that Pittman’s participation allows the university to remain informed of evolving Veterans Administration policies while contributing to national efforts to improve educational outcomes for veterans and their dependents.

Pittman serves as Co-Director of the Warriors CARE Center at Southern Wesleyan University, where she provides guidance and advocacy for student veterans, active-duty service members, and military dependents. Her election to the NAVPA Board reflects SWU’s ongoing commitment to supporting military-connected students through leadership, advocacy, and excellence in service.

For more information about the Warriors CARE Center, visit www.swu.edu/military-students/warriors-care-center/

To learn more about NAVPA, visit www.navpa.org

More Plants on your Plate – An Apple a Day

I’ve often noticed people giving thanks before a meal for “the nourishment we are about to receive.” As a lifestyle physician, I like to pause and think about that word—what does it really mean?

Nourishment is defined as “providing the food or other substances necessary for growth, health, and good condition.” This is where I believe we often fail ourselves. Over the past 20 to 50 years, the entire concept of food has changed. Much of what many folks consider food today is no longer whole food at all. Instead, it has been altered, stripped down, and broken apart so completely that the original nutrients and fiber are largely gone. In their place are additives and fillers. Food like this does not support health or good condition.

For many readers of this column, the food on your plate once came straight from the garden when you were a child. As food preservation and safety techniques advanced, so did the rise of highly processed, food-like products. These products are designed to stimulate our taste buds and brain chemicals, signaling us to eat more and want more. Over time, they have crowded out the vegetables and fruits that once filled so much of our plates.

It is no surprise, then, that we now see so many people struggling with declining health. The healthiest eating patterns all include large amounts of fruits and vegetables. These foods are foundational, not optional. I will spare you the scientific details, but medical research and cultural studies repeatedly show the same pattern: the more fruits and vegetables people eat, the lower their risk of many chronic diseases—especially high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Locally, many of us eat only one or two servings of fruits and vegetables per day. Yet data show that people who choose five or more servings experience greater health benefits, and personally, I recommend aiming for eight or more.

So perhaps it is time to take another look at your plate. Are you eating off a plate, or straight out of a bag? Take-out and packaged foods rarely include the whole fruits and vegetables our bodies need to thrive. A practical first step is simply to add more colorful plants. How hard would it be to bring a bag of apples to work each week? The old saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” still holds true. Add extra vegetables to your sandwich, pasta, or tacos. And always, order a salad.

Every plant contains different phytonutrients, each offering unique health benefits. You might imagine that eating a wide variety works like a superpower, thanks to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. These “rainbow” foods support cell repair, healthy growth, and proper gut function. Try to include many different fruits and vegetables each week. If you challenge yourself to eat more than 15 different kinds, you may even discover something new.

While there may seem to be barriers, adding more produce to your meals is often easier than you think. As you fill your plate with colorful plants, they naturally crowd out foods that provide calories but little else. If you want to improve what your body receives from food, choosing unaltered fruits and vegetables may be the simplest first step—the low-hanging fruit on the path toward better health.

The Attorney General’s Office, in collaboration with the South Carolina Department of Insurance and the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs, provides these tips:

Before a storm, proactive tree management reduces risk, but it is crucial to protect yourself from unqualified, “fly-by-night” operators who often emerge before or after severe weather. Key consumer protections include verifying ISA certification, ensuring liability insurance is active, obtaining written contracts, and refusing high-pressure, door-to-door, or up-front payment scams.

Essential Consumer Protections When Hiring Arborists

Verify Credentials: Demand to see proof of International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) certification.

Verify Insurance Directly: Ask for a Certificate of Insurance (COI) for both general liability and workers’ compensation, then call the insurer directly to confirm the policy is active.

Avoid “Doorknockers”: Be wary of crews that travel from out of state following storms; prioritize established local companies.

Get Detailed Written Contracts: Ensure all agreements are in writing, detailing the specific scope of work, cleanup procedures, and final cost.

No Upfront Payments: Never pay in full before the work is finished and you are 100% satisfied.

Avoid Assignment of Benefits (AOB): Do not sign documents that assign your insurance benefits to the contractor.

Beware of “Free Inspections” Following Storms: Scammers often use this to pressure homeowners into unnecessary and expensive work.

Check References: Ask for local references and check online reviews for recent, quality work.

Proactive Pre-Storm Tree Care Recommendations

Professional Assessment: Have an arborist check for root rot, decay, and structural weakness.

Selective Pruning: Remove dead, diseased, or hanging branches that could turn into dangerous projectiles.

Avoid “Topping”: Never allow “topping” (cutting main branches back to stubs), as it weakens the tree and is prohibited by industry standards.

Install Support Systems: Install cabling or bracing on structurally weak but valuable trees.

Do Not Use Climbing Spikes: Prohibit the use of spikes on trees that are not being removed, as they create wounds leading to infection.

Clear Surroundings: Remove items that could be damaged or become hazards, such as outdoor furniture, and clear debris around the base of the tree.

Documentation for Insurance

Document Before and After: Take date-stamped photos of your trees before the storm season, especially after any maintenance, to prove they were not neglected.

Keep Records: Save all arborist reports and invoices for insurance documentation.

From the SC Department of Insurance:

Understand your coverage limits. Most insurance policies will have maximum coverage limits (i.e., up to $1000 in reasonable expenses for removal of a fallen tree, with a limit of $500 per tree).

Know when coverage applies. If a tree does not touch or damage a covered structure, the policy may only pay if the tree becomes an obstacle.

Be aware of exclusions. Generally, homeowner insurance policies will not cover loss or damage caused by negligence or maintenance issues. If a tree was rotten or poorly maintained before the storm, the homeowner’s insurance policy may not extend coverage.

Document all property damage. Take photos and videos. This evidence will help prove your loss and support your insurance claim.

Contact your insurance company or agent. Questions about your policy or need to file a claim? Call your agent or the insurance company as soon as possible after the loss.

Contact the South Carolina Department of Insurance’s Office of Consumer Services for helpful insurance guidance at 803-737-6180, or visit online at doi.sc.gov

The South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs adds the following advice regarding contractors.

Taking steps to check out the contractor can help you make sure repairs are made properly and that you are satisfied with the job. Keep the following in mind before paying someone:

Do your research. Get references from your friends, neighbors, or co-workers. Search the business online, adding the word “complaint” or “scam” after the name. Visit SCDCA’s Background a Business page to search complaints and look up licenses with state agencies. To find a professional licensed contractor, visit the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation’s Licensee Lookup page.

Verify information. Ask to see the vendor’s business license or permit with the state, county, and/or city, and proof of insurance. Check the contractor’s ID with full name, business location, and phone number.

Get it in writing. Get at least three bids from contractors. Once you’re ready to sign a contract, make sure all details are in writing, you fully understand the terms, and get a completed copy.

Watch how you pay. Do not pay in full up front. Only make the final payment after the job is done and you’re satisfied. Need financing? Never agree to financing through your contractor without shopping around and comparing loan terms.

Our two main booklets on these topics are Recovering from a Disaster and Beware of Disaster Scams.

Red Flags to Watch For

Unsolicited Door-to-Door Offers: Especially if they demand a cash deposit.

“No Out-of-Pocket” Promises: Claims that they will pay your insurance deductible.

Aggressive Sales Tactics: Forcing a “now or never” decision.

Lack of Proper Equipment: Using inadequate gear for large jobs.

Asking to Sign a Tablet/Phone Without Reviewing: Ensuring you know exactly what you are signing.

LIBERTY — At press time, the Liberty High School wrestling team had an impressive 20-2 overall record.

Red Devils coach Derek Harris talked about where his program is at and reflected on the season so far.

“We lost 43-33 last week to West Oak that has won four-straight state championships in 3A,” he said. “We had nothing to hang our head about. Those tough matches in season are going to prepare us for the postseason. We’re just trying to get everyone healthy, and get all of our guys back into the lineup. For us in 2A, it is great to win county. But at the end of the day, county is not our goal. Our goal is to try and compete for state titles year in and year out.”

Beyond the record and the solid coaching of Harris, you can’t overlook the impact on the program of brothers JT and Cullen Spence.

JT is in his first year of college and is red shirting at Lander University. He was there in support last Friday night when Liberty rolled past Daniel, Pickens and Easley.

“It’s going pretty good,” JT said, about his first year of college. “I love the team, the atmosphere and love the coaching staff. Everything is great. I’m just trying to work on my skills and fine-tune my skills for next year when I’m the guy. I’m wrestling at 184 (pounds) and I’d like to stay there for the rest of my career.”

Added JT, about his younger brother, “He (Cullen) is going to be better than me - 100 percent. I think his skills will surpass mine. You get a little bit of a benefit having an older brother who is a college wrestler for sure. It’s nice to come back and see the team. I miss the coaches.”

The interesting part of this year’s Liberty wrestling team is that there are seven seniors who start and then seven freshman/sophomores who also start.

Cullen is one of those underclassmen for the Red Devils. The 15-year-old Spence is currently 30-1 on the season with hopes of winning state. “I’m ranked No. 1 right now, but it just makes a bigger target on my back,” he said. “I love my teammates so much. They push me at practice. Every day we are working hard together - it’s great.”

Cullen is grateful, too, for learning from his older brother JT.

“It really helped me a lot because we’d always wrestle together,” he said. “It really helps me with stronger guys to have really good technique. He’s the one who got me into it when I was 7 (years old) and I loved it ever since.”

Lastly, Coach Harris took some time to reflect on brothers JT and Cullen.

“JT went from not even being a state qualifer his freshman year to finishing his high school career as a 3-time state champion and Mr. Wrestling in South Carolina in the 2A division,” he said. “Now, he’s wrestling at the collegiate level. He’s just a great example of - if a kid really wants to commit to something - then anything is possible. I’m super proud of JT.”

And about Cullen, Coach Harris said, “Cullen is really beyond his years. He’s a freshman and I think he’s been wrestling since fourth grade. He really puts in a lot of extra work beyond what is required for the regular season. We’re just seeing the results from all the work that he’s put in.”

EASLEY — It didn’t take too long to introduce everyone on Senior Night last week for the Easley wrestling team.

Henry Masterson … the lone senior for the Green Wave. And uniquely, it’s his first season out for wrestling.

“Wrestling is such a mental sport,” said the 6-foot-4 and 215-pound Masterson. “Psychologically, it pushes you. A lot of these young guys are starting to figure it out. This isn’t a sport where you can blame the offense or blame the defense. It’s one-on-one and that’s a big reason why I wanted to start wrestling this year. The mental toughness and the work ethic will stick with me the rest of my life.”

A starting lineman for the football team, the 18-year-old Masterson is quick to say how much the sport of wrestling helps with football.

“I do not think there are enough words that I know … everybody should do it,” he said. “It’s unbelievable. The leverage that you learn and the grit that you learn.”

Beyond that, Masterson could not be happier than wrestling for first-year coach Jordan Hawthorne.

“He (Hawthorne) is the definition of put your head down and work,” said Masterson. “Any time I need some help. Like today, I was injured with my shoulder and he’s a very understanding guy. If something was going on in my life, Hawthorne would be one of the first people I’d talk to. He’s a laid-back guy, but he also understands the value of work. I can’t think of better values in a coach.”

And about his wrestling teammates at EHS, Masterson said, “I love each and every one of these guys. Every time I come to the gym I get a new reason to keep going. Obviously, it would be hard to see why being the only senior. But every time I come to the gym, these guys tell me why.”

At press time, Masterson had an overall record of 12-5.

“He is probably the smartest kid I’ve ever met in my life,” said Coach Hawthorne. “He’s going to Chapel Hill — which is already a high academic institution — but he’s also studying neuroscience there. He has a great support system and is a multi-sport athlete. He’s got his head on straight. While he may not be the most vocal kid on the team, he leads by example.”

Masterson is currently ranked third in his class at EHS with a 5.2 grade point average. He lights up, too, when talking about his future plans to attend the University of North Carolina.

“I’ve always been pretty competitive in the academics,” he said. “I wanted to find a school that could mix my love for academics with sports. Every time I talked to teachers and researched it - it was Chapel Hill. I hope to help athletes in the future, and hope to be an orthopedic surgeon.”

EASLEY — A golden era of football in Easley (1967-72) took center-stage on Saturday night. Over 50 0f those Green Wave football players showed up to pay tribute to the Larry Bagwell era.

The wife of the late Coach Bagwell (Lu) stood up at the sit-down dinner and proudly said, “He loved everybody in this room, and he would call you all by name. I just want to thank ya’ll on behalf of him.”

Coach Bagwell touched the hearts of everybody in that room, especially NFL standout Stanley Morgan.

“An unbelievable coach,” Morgan said. “We had a special relationship — he and I. I grew up with just my mom and never knew what it was like to have a father. He became not only a coach, but a father figure in my life. I was able to call him if I needed to have someone to talk to. He would advise me on things that I needed to do.”

Jimmy Porter played four years of varsity football at EHS (1968-71) and just missed playing on either of the two state-championship teams of the Green Wave (in 1967 and 1972). Porter played fullback.

“There are two fullbacks left over in this crowd out of those six years and about 10 halfbacks,” Porter said. “We have a lot of halfbacks running around here. Those are the guys who made the best players. This was special tonight. I have lived right here in Easley all my life and have seen guys I haven’t seen in 50 years. A couple of my guys in my class I’d see at class reunions, but it’s amazing to see these older guys - the ones who were a year ahead of me. I watched them play in the state championship game - got me excited to play up there on the varsity level.”

Continued Porter, “Back in the day in Easley, if you were an athlete, you played football and that’s what it was all about. A lot of those guys were my mentors and it’s special to see what’s going on with their lives.”

Listed below are additional comments from several others on that special night - and what that era of Easley football meant to them. Bill Houston and Keith Godfrey helped make this night memorable. Dr. Josh Oxendine, the EHS Principal, also gave a motivational speech about the current Green Wave football program.

Stanley Brooks (1968 EHS grad): “Coach Bagwell knew basically who needed to play where. He would do that and everything worked out really well. This is a great tribute to him for the job that he had done. The team connected with him right off the bat and we just really loved to play for him.”

Albert Fleming (1970): “When we transitioned from Clear View to Easley High -- it was like everybody right off the bat got along great. We had not one ounce of trouble. All the other schools had a lot of problems. Coach Bagwell - I love him to death. He was one of the greatest that I could have ever met. After the season was over, I used to see him down at the football games, he’d recognize me and - to anyone he knew - he let them know that I was one of his football players.”

Sam Galloway (1969): “A lot of years growing up in grammar school we played against all these boys. Then when we got to junior high, we started playing with these boys. It was a continual growth during that period, getting to know them all and enjoying their company. We were just a big family. Tonight is great to see how well we’re still looking. We’ve lost several of the players, but it’s a chance to rehash and enjoy a lot of memories.”

Listed is everyone who took part in this big event last Saturday night: Al Frierson, Albert Fleming, Barry Maddox, Ben Gamble, Bernarde Moore, Bert Owens, Bill Owens, Bill Houston, Sue Hudson, Bob Carman, Bobby Smith, Brad Pressley, Charlie Roper, Chuck Nalley, Danny Bracken, David Byars, Dean Woods, Dennis Turner, Donnie Mullikin, Eddie Cisson, Emmanual Smith, Frank Finley, Gary Youngblood, Gil Payne, Grady Gaston, Greg Burrough, Jan Kelley, Jim Curtis, Jim Porter, Joe Suddeth, John Aiken, John Downie, John Julian, Johnny Lesley, John Roper, Dr. Josh Oxendine, Keith Godfrey, Ken Gamble, Ken Ross, Lewis Duncan, Lu Bagwell, Luanne Johnson, Terry Johnson, Mike Barnes, Mike Lamar, Oscar Thorsland, Susan Thorsland, Pete McGaha, Phil King, Ralphy McKnight, Rick Austin, Rick Gettys, Rick Gilstrap, Rick Stewart, Rudy Painter, Sam Gallaway, Coach Sam Houston, Stanley Brooks, Stanley Morgan, Steve Allsep, Terry Julian, Terry Smith, Thomas Duke, Tim Black, Tim DeRossett, Tim Mobley and Wayne Culbertson.

PICKENS COUNTY — Pickens County Sheriff Tommy Blankenship spoke out last Friday about two infants deaths that occurred in the past week.

He spoke about how oftentimes, infant deaths are a result of co-sleeping and unsafe sleep environments.

“I know this can be a sensitive topic but if sharing this information saves even one life, then it matters and it’s worth it,” he said in a video posted to social media.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), babies should never sleep on an adult bed, couch, or armchair. Experts said it’s not advised for the infant to sleep in those environments by themselves or with others.

Couches and armchairs, can be even more dangerous, if an adult were to fall asleep while feeding or comforting the infant.

“I know personally that parenting can be exhausting and I also know the desire to comfort your child can be strong but a few small changes can mean the difference between life and tragedy,” Blankenship said.

National health leaders also said that sleeping under quilts, blankets, sheepskins, and other soft coverings can also increase the risk of suffocation or strangulation.

“Although adults may prefer soft surfaces for sleep, research shows that babies who sleep on top of soft surfaces or with items are at higher risk of [Sudden Infant Death Syndrome] SIDS and other sleep-related death,” a report from NIH reads.

SIDS is not something that can usually be seen or heard, officials said.

Firstly, when putting a baby to sleep, both the NIH and Blankenship said to always put a baby on their back to sleep at all times.

The safest sleeping option for an infant is a firm, flat, and level surface that is only covered by a fitted sheet, he said.

“Research also links crib bumpers and bedding other than a fitted sheet covering the baby’s mattress to serious injuries and deaths,” the NIH added.

Room sharing, or having your baby sleep in the same room as parents of adults, can actually reduce the risk of SIDS or sleep-related infant deaths. The practice can also make feeding, comforting, monitoring your infant easier.

Educational resources and impact

If you or someone you know is a parent in need of resources about safe sleeping, Sheriff Blankenship advised people to reach out to their local health providers.

“They want to help,” he said.

Blankenship asked the people keep the families impacted and first responders in their thoughts.

“A prayer for the families who are grieving an unimaginable loss and a prayer for the first responders who are hurting alongside them,” he said. “Tonight, please hold these families close in your thoughts and in your prayers and please keep our first responders in yours as well. They’re strong but they are human and they feel this loss deeply.”

PICKENS COUNTY — The Pickens County Coroner’s Office is investigating after it was notified of the discovery of a body.

The coroner’s office received reports of a body being found in the area of C. David Stone Road in Pickens, South Carolina, around 3 p.m. on Sunday.

The victim has been identified as a male, but the coroner has not released a name.

Due to the nature of this death, no further details are available at this time, they said.

The incident is being investigated by the Pickens County Coroner’s Office and the city of Pickens Police Department.