Court Cases November 2016
Man Found Guilty,
Gets 20 Years
In the one jury trial of Saluda County General Sessions Court, a Saluda man was found guilty and sentenced to 20-years in prison.
Wayne McConnell Smith was found guilty of criminal sexual conduct with a minor, 2nd degree, and was sentenced to by Judge Roger M. Young Sr. to 20 years on each count. He was also sentenced to 15 years for criminal sexual conduct with a minor, 3rd degree. The sentences run concurrently.
The following were sentenced on guilty pleas:
Preston Cole Bowman, possession of Schedule II drugs, 90 days, suspended to 18 months probation. Ned Dwight Brown, failure to stop for a blue light 1st, one year, suspended to 30 days and six months probation .
Dekayus Coleman, assault & battery 1st, Youthful Offender Act (YOA) not to exceed six years. Dvonta Coleman, assault & battery 1st, Youthful Offender Act (YOA) not to exceed six years.
Tarakus Otrasco Coleman, resisting arrest, 90 days. Jessie William Crouch, ill treatment of animals, five years, upon service of one year, suspended to five year probation. Derrick Jerome Davis, use of vehicle without owners permission, time served.
Robert Samuel Day III, burglar 2nd non-violent, 10 years, upon service of two years, suspended to four years probation. Monreus Cortez Ellis, possession of meth, one years, suspended to time served and six moths probation.
Tanya Dawn Greatonex, unlawful neglect of a child, five years, suspended to 18 months probation. Brandy Nicole Green, forgery, 30 days time served.
Wardrick D. Herlie Herrin, pointing and presenting, two years, suspended to one year probation. James Raymond Ill, Jr., possession of Meth, 2nd offense, one, suspended to 18 months probation.
Lavoris Sentenal Hill, criminal sexual conduct 3rd, eight years. Trevor Devon Morris, assault & battery 1st, YOA not to exceed 6 years.
Willie Lee Murray, used of vehicle without owners permission, six months, suspended to time served and six months probation. Marquez Dinon Nash, unlawful carrying of handgun, YOA not to exceed two years, suspended to 93 days, and one year probation.
Reico Antonya Norris, possession of a controlled substance, six months, suspended to six months probation. Demarcus Quenterrius Rollinson, failure to stop for a blue light, there years, suspended to 18 months probation.
Jessica Nichols Scott, unlawful conduct toward a child, one years, suspended to one year probation. Harold Alan Slaton, unlawful possession of a handgun by a certain person, 90 days, suspended to time served and four months probation.
Robert Douglas Stancel, malicious injury to real property, two years, probation revocation. Stella Mashone Thornhill, possession of meth 1st, six months, suspended to time served and three months probation.
Khalil Juwan Williams, assault & battery 1st, ten years, suspended to 20 months probation. Brian A. Wilson, possession of stolen vehicle - 10K, one year, suspended to six months probation.
This was the last General Sesssions Court for Saluda CountyClerk of Court Doris Holmes and 11th Circuit Solicuitor Donnie Myers. Both are retiring, and will be replaced by Sheri Coleman and Rick Hubbard, respectively.
L to R: Beth Phibbs, Executive Director of the South Carolina School Administrators with Dr. Abbey Duggins, Assistant Principal of SHS and the 2017 High chool Assistant Principal of the Year.
SHS’s Duggins named High School
Assistant Principal of the Year
Columbia, S.C. — Dr. Abbey Duggins, assistant principal of Saluda High School in Saluda County School District, has been named the 2017 High School Assistant Principal of the Year by the South Carolina Association of School Administrators (SCASA). The award was announced Thursday, November 17th, in a surprise announcement at Saluda High School.
Duggins was selected by a knowledgeable panel of judges from an outstanding field of high school administrator candidates. The other finalist for the award was Amy Ballard from Mauldin High School, Greenville County Schools. The criteria used in the selection of this coveted award are set by the National Association of Secondary School Principals. State sponsors also include Horace Mann, Herff Jones and Michelin.
"We are very pleased to announce Abbey Duggins as the SCASA Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year," said Beth Phibbs, Executive Director of the South Carolina Association of School Administrators. "She is an outstanding educator who is a passionate leader and a champion for her students and teachers at Saluda High School."
Sarah Longshore, Principal of Saluda High School, writes of Dr. Abbey Duggins, "Dr. Duggins encompasses the ideals of what an assistant principal of the year should be. Her leadership and pursuit of excellence is an example of all the things that make Saluda so great. She supports all students and all teachers in meeting the same high standards. As a champion for equitable student access to rigorous instructional programs, Dr. Duggins has worked hard to overcome the challenges that a poor, rural school district faces. Congratulations to Dr. Duggins for this well-deserved recognition."
Saluda County Superintendent, David Mathis, regards Dr. Duggins as a "consummate leader. Her vision for teaching and learning has contributed to the success of those she works with every day. She seeks opportunities to support students and staff along their journey. It is no secret that her influence leaves a lasting impression on the lives she touches."
SCASA, the professional organization for school leaders in South Carolina, has more than 4,000 members. From professional development opportunities and research, to publications and legislative advocacy, SCASA’s focus is to support school leaders in providing the best possible education for South Carolina’s young people. SCASA also works on the national level, as a state affiliate of three national associations for school leaders.
Sheriff, Coroner Win
Sheriff, Coroner Re-elected
Despite a high Republican vote in most races, two incumbent Saluda County Democrats won re-election Tues., Nov. 8, in the General Election.
Sheriff John Perry was elected to his second term, earning 5147 votes to Republican Robin Freeman’s 3307. Coroner Keith Turner, in office since 1993, defeated Republican challenger Randall Maffett 4620 to 3822.
William Pugh became the second Saluda County Council member to be defeated this year. Republican political newcomer D.J.Miller took a narrow win the County Council District 2 race, 812-379. Jones Butler defeated Jacob Schumpert in the June Republican Primary for District 4.
Cal Forrest was elected to S.C. House Seat 39. In Saluda County he defeated Tillman Gives 5072-2004.
District 10 Senator Floyd Nicholson won re-election district-wide, but lost in Saluda County to Bryan Hope 2194-1887.
District 26 Senator Nikki Setzler won re-election as well, defeating Brad Lindsey in Saluda County 372-162.
Third District Congressman Jeff Duncan won re-election. In Saluda County, he defeated Democrat Hosea Cleveland 5642-2563.
In the Presidential race Donald Trump defeated Hillary Clinton 5525-2809. While 73 percent of Saluda County’s registered voters cast ballots, the 2012 election had more voters in the Presidential race. In 2012 Mitt Romney defeated President Barack Obama 5130-3322. The 2016 figures show Trump got 395 more votes than Romney, and Clinton got 513 less than Obama. This trend apparently happened in many parts of the country.
In the races that had no opposition, following are the vote totals:
State Senate District 25, Shane Massey (3110); State House District 82 Bill Clyburn (982); 11th Circuit Solicitor Rick Hubbard (6084); Probate Judge Brenda Griffith (6414); Clerk of Court Sheri Coleman (6350); County Council District 4 Jones Butler (2067); Soil and Water District Commissioner Kevin Yon (5605); Aiken School District 1 Ronnie West (677); Lexington School District Three Craig A Caughman (480), Stacey B. Derrick (506), Leon Drafts (480), Lancer Shull (448); School Board District One - Seat 1 Sharon Williams Holloway (587), Seat 3 William Eberz (618), Seat 5 James M. Holloway Sr. (352), Seat 7 Arlene Puryear (943).
CITIZEN OF THE YEAR - Peter Griffiin, surrounded by his family, was name the Saluda County Farm-City Citizen of the Year at the annual banquet Nov. 10. He was presented the plaque by retired Saluda County Agent Phil Perry. (Standard-Sentinel photo)
Peter Griffin Named
Citizen of The Year
Saluda County farmer and community leader Peter Griffin was named the Saluda County Farm-City Citizen of the Year of 2016 at the annual banquet Thurs., Nov. 10, at Saluda High School.
Gary Gilmore, coach of the Coastal Carolina University national championship winning baseball team was the featured speaker.
County Councilwoman Gwen Shealy served as the Mistress of Ceremonies, and the Rev. Pam Turfa, of Corinth/St. Mark Lutheran Churches delivered the invocation.
After special guests were recognized, the large audience enjoyed a meal prepared by Butler Catering.
Following the meal, Julia Wills described the Chanticleer arrangement she made in honor the mascot of Coastal Carolina. Mrs. Wills used greenery to create the rooster, and used okra pods to make the beak, The design also featured a baseball glove and ball, three baseball bats and home plate.
Sherri Ward, president of the Saluda County of Commerce provided the entertainment by singing two songs.
Nathan Horton, Saluda High’s baseball coach, introduced Coach Gilmore.
The coach began his presentation with a video detailing Coastal’s success through the conference, regional and super regional tournaments, and in the college World Series in Omaha.
Gilmore said his faith grew through all these tournaments when he made the decision to read the Bible in the spare time he had on the road.
He said the team knew all of the state, including Gamecock and Tigers supporters, were pulling for them to win.
Following Gilmore’s speech, retired Saluda County Agent Phil Perry, introduced Griffin as Citizen of the year
(See print edition for full story
Christmas Craft Show
The annual Christmas Craft Show will be this weekend at the Saluda National Guard Armory. There will be around 40 crafters showing off their hand crafted items for sale.
A lot of our crafters are from Saluda; Mrs. Virginia Goff, Mrs. Lynn Anderson, Mrs. Dora Whittle, Mrs. Janice Riddle, Mrs. Crystal Canady, Ms. Wendy Corson, Mrs. Tonya Temples, Mrs. Bonnie Shealy to name a few.
We will also have the best hot dogs in Saluda for sale.
You do not have to go to Columbia, Augusta or Greenville to f’md your Christmas gifts, just come to the Armory on Saturday and Sunday and do all your shopping. There will be something for every one. We hope everyone will come out and support our local crafters.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, November 19“‘ from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Sunday, November 20th from 1:00 PM to 5:00PM. SEE YOU AT THE CRAFT SHOW.
Election Results 2016
SALUDA COUNTY ELECTION RESULTS
(Contested races listed only) 73.61% voter turnout
President and Vice President
2809 - Hillary Clinton and Timothy Kaine, Democratic
5525 -Donald Trump and Michael Pence, Republican
US Senate
2457 - Thomas Dixon, Democratic
5442 - Tim Scott, Republican
U.S. House of Representatives. District 03
2563 - Hosea Cleveland, Democratic
5642 - Jeff Duncan, Republican
State Senate, District 10
1887 - Floyd Nicholson, Democratic
2194 - J Bryan Hope, Republican
State Senate, District 26
372 - Nikki Setzler, Democratic
162 - Brad Lindsey, Republican
State House of Representatives, District 39
2005 - Tillman Gives, Democratic
5072 - Cal Forrest, Republican
LOCAL RACES
Sheriff
5147 - John C Perry, Democratic
3307 - Robin Freeman, Republican
Coroner
4620 - Keith Turner, Democratic
3822 - Randall Maffett , Republican
County Council District 02
792 - William Billie Pugh , Democratic
812 - DJ David Miller, Republican
School Trustee District, 03 (Lexington School District)
480 - Craig A Caughman
506 - Stacey B Derrick
480 - Leon Drafts
448 - Lancer Shull
FUNDS FOR NEW ROOF - On Mon., Nov. 7, Rep Ralph S. Kennedy, Jr. presented Trinity Community Center a $20,000 check from state funds that will be used to put a new metal roof on the popular building, which began life as a school in 1917. Pictured, L to R, are Russell Durst, County Council Chairman Don Hancock, Bertie Eastman, Rep. Kennedy, and Rev. Burton Campbell. Durst, Eastman and Campbell represented the Community Center. (Standard-Sentinel photo)
Town of Saluda Solar Project
The Town of Saluda and the SC Energy office have worked together to install a 26 Kw roof top solar system that will offset the energy use at Town Hall. Energy collected by this system will be sold back to SCE&G. The Town currently pays 12 cents/Kw to the power company, SCE&G will purchase power from the town at a rate of 22 cents/Kw. The installed system will pay for itself in about six years. The town also has a 10 year contract with SCE&G for them to purchase power. The entire project, which also includes replacing all of the lighting with LED has been made possible by a loan from the SC Energy Office.
General Election Nov. 8 2016
General Election November 8
Voters in Saluda County will join the rest of the nation in going to the polls Tues., Nov. 8, in the General Election.
Of course, the main contest is the battle for President between Democrat Hillary Clinton and Republican Donald Trump, but there are also some important local races.
Democratic Saluda County Sheriff John Perry is being challenged by Republican Robin Freeman, a Saluda police captain. Both men are sons of police officers and have years of experience in law enforcement in Saluda County. Freeman defeated former Sheriff Jason Booth in the Republican Primary.
Democratic Saluda County Coroner Keith Turner will meet Republican Randall Maffett.
Turner challenged the qualifications of the original Republican candidate Chuck Adams. A judge ruled in Turner’s favor.
Because Adams was disqualified, the Republican Party was able to open the books again and Maffett, a retired Highway Patrol lieutenant, filed. He meets all the qualifications.
All of Saluda County’s voters can cast ballots in those two elections. The other contested races are in districts.
In County Council District 2 incumbent William Pugh, a Democrat, faces Republican DJ Miller, a former county IT manager.
In State Senate District 10 Democratic incumbent Floyd Nicholson will meet Ninety Six auctioneer Bryan Hope, a Republican.
State Senate District 26 will see Democratic incumbent Nikki Setzler meeting Republican Brad Lindsey.
Polls will open at 7 a.m. and close at 7 p.m.
Saluda County has 30 different ballots with all the districts in county, school and state elections, so it is impossible to print all of the sample ballots, but following are all the races:
President and Vice President
Hillary Clinton and Timothy Kaine, Democratic
Donald Trump and Michael Pence, Republican
Darrell Castle and Scott Bradley, Constitution
Evan McMullin and Nathan Johnson, Independence
Jill Stein and Ajamu Baraka, Green
Peter Skewes and Michael Lacy, American
Gary Johnson and Bill Weld, Libertarian
US Senate
Thomas Dixon, Democratic
Thomas Dixon, Working Families
Bill Bledsoe, Constitution
Thomas Dixon, Green
Tim Scott, Republican
Rebel Michael Scarborough, American
Bill Bledsoe, Libertarian
U.S. House of Representatives. District 03
Hosea Cleveland, Democratic
Jeff Duncan, Republican
State Senate, District 10
Floyd Nicholson, Democratic
J Bryan Hope, Republican
State Senate District 25
Shane Massey, Republican
State Senate, District 26
Nikki Setzler, Democratic
Brad Lindsey, Republican
State House of Representatives, District 39
Tillman Gives, Democratic
Cal Forrest, Republican
State House of Representatives, District 82
William Bill Clyburn
Solicitor Circuit 11
Rick Hubbard, Republican
LOCAL RACES
Sheriff
John C Perry, Democratic
Robin Freeman, Republican
Clerk of Court
Sherri Coleman, Republican
Coroner
Keith Turner, Democratic
Randall Maffett , Republican
County Council District 02
William Billie Pugh , Democratic
DJ David Miller, Republican
County Council District 04
Jones Butler, Republican
Soil and Water District Commission
P Kevin Yon, Non-Partisan
School Trustee District, 03 (Lexington School District)
Craig A Caughman
Stacey B Derrick
Leon Drafts
Lancer Shull
School Board District, District 01 (Aiken School District)
Ronnie West
School Board District 1 Seat 3
William Eberz
School Board District 1 Seat 1
Sharon Williams Holloway
School Board District 1 Seat 5
James M Holloway Sr
School Board District 1 Seat 7
Arlene S Puryear
Probate Judge
Brenda Griffith, Republican