Daily Archives: 07/02/2019
Courier Letters to the Editor
The Red, White and Blue family
Dear Editor,
This 4th of July, I have this to say to one and all of you.
Of those outside our nation that may hate us and would like to see us destroyed, just remember this. We have our problems from within, but we are all family, no matter the political beliefs nor the color of our skin. Religion or none, we are all still standing together as one. We’re the family of the Red, White and Blue!
The colors of that grand old flag we carry proudly into battle. To the death her honor we’ll defend.
However we would rather extend the hand of peace to you, though if you want a war, then that’s what we’ll give to you. We’re the
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There’s a time to speak and a time for silence
According to current census calculations, the population of our planet is rapidly approaching 8 billion people.
Along with this massive number, we know there has never been a time in history when this many individuals occupied the Earth at 
the same time, but we can also agree that we have more philosophies, opinions and worldviews than ever before. This, in turn, brings us to a point in time where our arguments and conflicts have created a more difficult atmosphere to acknowledge what we believe without being mocked, ridiculed and even persecuted.
With the creation and advancement of communication technology within the last 50 years, we are witnessing a social media grid that is capable of connecting the entire world together in an instant. It’s true, this is an amazing way of uniting us, but unfortunately, it also presents a vehicle that increases the volume of chaos and controversy.
I am not against having the opportunity to relay our thoughts, but for the Christian, we can clearly see that our Biblical perspectives are becoming an increasing target of hostility from those who oppose. We know the basic fundamentals of the Christian faith have always been an
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Derrick running for mayor
PICKENS — Jeff Derrick has announced his intent to run for mayor of Pickens.
Calling himself a “self-made” professional, Derrick said he has a “distinctive background in engineering” from design to management of projects spanning some 40-plus years in construction of chemical to nuclear facilities — projects from two-plus million to several hundred million.
He said he also has experience in managing and submitting and awarding contracts.
“As mayor, I will propose multiple projects of direction for all citizens of Pickens instead of just a chosen few,” Derrick said. “I believe all citizens should have a voice.
“Pickens has had and still has a group of politicians, people that seem to run this city only as they see fit,” he added. “They always put aside the real citizens. Pickens needs a different type of leadership — leadership for all, and not just a chosen few. I pray for your vote. Let’s move forward.”
Lady Devils’ stellar season comes to end
The Liberty Lady Devils 10-and-under softball team saw its season come to a close last week as it finished just shy of an all-star championship against Iva. The Lady Devils, coached by Jody Booth, Scott Moore, Brian Swafford and Tia Swafford, went 13-0 during the regular season before moving on to all-star competition. Liberty opened all-star play with a 7-3 win over Seneca on June 16. The Lady Devils continued to show the winning pedigree they had shown all season when they took on Central/Clemson. Liberty took a 6-5 win in nailbiting fashion before moving on to the championship game on June 26. The team was escorted by friends, family and most importantly, the Liberty Police Department as it headed to Crescent High School for the championship game. The Lady Devils fought a hard fight, coming up short 3-0, but still received runner-up honors in the 10-and-under Dixie Angels division of the tournament.
Courier Obituaries 7-13-19
TOMMY LAMAR WIRES
PICKENS — Tommy Lamar Wires, 79, went home to be with Jesus on Monday, June 17, 2019.
He is survived by his loving wife, Brenda of the home; two sons, David Wires of Pendleton and Bill Wires of Anderson; two grandchildren, Carson and Logan Wires of Anderson; sisters-in-law Barbara Day of Pickens and Margene, Ola Lee and Janice Wyres of Tuscaloosa, Ala. He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred O. and Lonnie B. Wyres; sister, Ruby Colburn; and brothers, Frank Wyres, Willie Wyres, Richard Wyres, Parson Wyres and Bobby Wyres.
Along with an unwavering loyalty to his family, Tommy was devoted to his Lord, his country and his community. Tommy continuously showed his love of the Lord through random acts of generosity. Tommy served his country in the United States Marine Corp for 10 years and served two tours in Vietnam, for which he was awarded the Purple Heart. Tommy served his community through the American Legion by going to local elementary schools to teach students patriotism and the proper way to handle the American Flag. Tommy was a true example of how to show love for God and country.
Funeral services ere held on June 26 at Griffin Baptist Church in Pickens, officiated by Rev. Mark Bernshausen. Burial was held in
Tips to keep your holiday happy and safe 4th of July
Independence Day is a celebration of the United States of America. The holiday is marked by fanfare and large parties, complete with barbecues, fireworks and parades.
As fun as July 4th festivities typically are, injuries, particularly those involving fireworks, are a concern that celebrants should not take lightly. An estimated 11,000 people visited the emergency room for fireworks-related injuries in 2016, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. However, fireworks aren’t the only danger this time of year. In order to remain safe, individuals can heed these tips.
• Do not drink and drive. Alcohol consumption may accompany Independence Day festivities. For those planning on using a car to get to and from parties, it is essential to designate a driver who will not imbibe. Otherwise, utilize any number of ridesharing services or available taxis.
• Swim smartly. Always swim with a buddy, and consider hiring a lifeguard if you’ll be hosting a pool party and cannot keep a watchful eye on guests in the pool. Adults also should not swim intoxicated, as it can impede the ability to stay afloat and may lead to risky behaviors.
• Leave fireworks to the professionals. Watch a public fireworks display instead of lighting fireworks on the street or in the backyard.
• Exercise caution with sparklers. Kids running around with sparklers in hand could be a recipe for disaster, as sparklers burn extremely hot. Make sure children do not wave them around or others can get burned. Keep a bucket of water handy to properly extinguish the sparklers.
• Review safe boating practices. If July 4th festivities find you out on the water, be sure that life jackets are worn and set boating and water safety rules for the family.
• Check in with a vet. The Fourth of July can be traumatic for pets not accustomed to fireworks and other loud noises or crowds. Behavior therapy, medication and ensuring that pets do not run away from home and get lost may be necessary.
• Watch food temperatures. Do not leave food out in the hot sun for too long; otherwise, harmful bacteria can grow and potentially cause foodborne illnesses. The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service says to never leave food out of refrigeration for more than two hours. If the temperature is above 90 F, food should not be left out for more than one hour.
These are some of the safety strategies that can keep Independence Day celebrations both safe and enjoyable.
SWU, VCOM agreements ensure successful transition into medicine
CENTRAL — Southern Wesleyan University and Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) signed articulation agreements June 20, ensuring future opportunities for SWU students to advance in the medical field.
The agreements included a Guaranteed Admissions Interview agreement that will allow third year/junior students to have a guaranteed interview spot if they have a science and overall GPA of 3.5, and an acceptable score on the MCAT. Last year, VCOM had 12,000 applications and only offered interviews to 350 of those applicants.
Also signed was a Rocovich Scholars’ Early Admission Program agreement, which will allow some Southern Wesleyan students to apply to VCOM after their sophomore year. Students with a pre-requisite and overall GPA of 3.5 will be guaranteed an interview for
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Courier Community Calendar 7-3-19
• Youth cheer camp set at Pickens High
The Pickens High School varsity and JV cheerleaders are sponsoring a youth cheer camp set for Saturday, Aug. 3, in the cheer room at PHS from 9 a.m. until noon. The cost is $30 per child, and ages 6-12 may register beginning at 8:30 a.m. Cash or checks made payable to PHS will be accepted. There will be a showcase at 11:30 a.m., and all parents, families and friends are invited to attend. Contact AshleyButler@pickens.k12.sc.us or nicholsonbreann@gmail.com for more information.
• Soapstone set to host fundraiser
Soapstone Church invites everyone to a special fundraiser at the church, located at 296 Liberia Road in Pickens, on Saturday, July 20. The event will feature fine cooking and will be held from noon-8 p.m. Visitors will enjoy true Southern cooking, including a fish fry, barbecue and fried chicken with all the fixings right.
• ‘Hee Haw’ play planned in Pickens
A play based on popular 1970s and ‘80s TV show “Hee Haw” was a smash hit on June 8 at the Pickens Senior Center, and a an encore presentation is planned Saturday, July 13, starting at 7 p.m.
The play, written by Carol Baker, is directed by Rick and Susan Grant. Mike Waldrop is the announcer. The cast features a group of talented musicians and actors, including Lewis Pace, Carol Baker, Dale Harward, Bucky Hendricks, Mike Hayes, Lib Cowan, Earl
Amazing pound cakes for any occasion
By Olivia Fowler
For the Courier
ofowler@thepccourier.com
Pound cakes don’t have to be dry, and they don’t have to be predictable.
But they do have to be rich, moist and 
flavorful. If you’re looking for a non-fat, low-sugar pound cake, you’ll have to look somewhere else, because you won’t find it here.
Don’t wait for a holiday to make one of these.
They’re not difficult — just follow the directions and enjoy.
Courier Legal Notices 7-3-19
SUMMONS
STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA
COUNTY OF PICKENS
IN THE PROBATE COURT
Case No. 2009ES3900361
IN RE: WILLIAM LAKE CHAPMAN
Gloria N. Littleton and Mae Gail Owens, Petitioners, vs. The Estate of William Lake Chapman and Heirs known and unknown, Respondents.
TO THE RESPONDENT(S) ABOVE-NAMED:
YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED and required to answer the Petition herein, a copy of which is herewith served upon
