Daily Archives: 02/25/2025
Courier Letters to the Editor 2-26-25
What is going on?
Dear Editor,
The indiscriminant removal of essential employees from key government agencies without considering function is inexplicable.
The unauthorized collection of personal Social Security information is shocking. Firing nuclear safety specialists, eliminating IRS workers before tax season and breaking farmers’ grain contracts benefits no one. Congress is the only body that can legally create government agencies and create oversight
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Don’t fall for Medicare scams
Medicare card scams are on the rise. During one calendar year, Medicare had over $100 billion in fraudulent claims, and the damage cost goes up when identity theft and stolen financial information are 
added in.
What the Medicare thieves want is your card number, and they’ll try any number of tricks to get you to reveal it.
Scammers might contact you to offer you a “cheaper” Medicare but will need your personal information to sign you
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New VA Sec. Doug Collins
Changes are coming fast and furious at the Department of Veterans Affairs. Since these impact many of us, we need to pay attention to what’s going on — and who’s now in charge.
The VA has a new secretary, Douglas A. Collins, the 12th in the position since the VA was started in 1988. Collins is an Air Force veteran, served as chaplain, has been a
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Courier Obituaries 2-26-25
PATRICIA ANNE ROBERTS RUTLEDGE
EASLEY — Patricia Anne Roberts Rutledge, 87, died peacefully at The Foothills of Presbyterian Communities of South Carolina in Easley.
“Pat” was born May 18, 1937, at the University of Virginia Hospital inCharlottesville, Va. She was raised in Schuyler, Va., by parents Emmett Samuel Roberts and Myrtle Saunders Roberts.
She was the beloved wife of the late Dr. Broaddus L. Rutledge II.
She is survived by her dear sister, Brenda Roberts Graham.
She was the mother of Cynthia O’Donoghue (Martin), John Rutledge (Betty Starr) and Scott Rutledge (Nancy). Pat was the proud grandmother to Taylor, Peyton, Kathryn (Jack), Matthew and William (Valentina). Pat had one great-grandchild, Gisele.
Pat graduated as valedictorian from Schuyler High School in 1954. She attended Mary Washington University for her prerequisite nursing credentials prior to entering the School of Nursing at the University of Virginia, where she received her Bachelor of Science in nursing in May 1959. Pat maintained a strong bond with her college nursing friends, affectionately named “The Pearls.” Pat worked at the University of Virginia Hospital, where she also served as an instructor in the School of Nursing. One of Pat’s proud achievements was her 2009 recognition as a 50-year member of the Thomas Jefferson Society of Alumni.
When the Rutledge family relocated to Clemson in 1979, Pat continued her nursing career as director of
Women Build 2025 is March 8
EASLEY — Pickens County Habitat for Humanity (PCHFH) is thrilled to invite the community to take part in Women Build 2025, an inspiring event that unites women from all walks of life to create lasting 
change through affordable housing. Taking place on March 8, International Women’s Day, at 517 Habersham Lane in Easley, this event is part of Habitat for Humanity’s global Women Build movement, which empowers women through hands-on learning and meaningful action.
Women Build 2025 is more than just a construction event—it’s a movement. By working together to build safe and affordable homes, participants help create stability for families in Pickens County while raising awareness of the housing challenges many face.
“Women Build isn’t just about putting up walls—it’s about strengthening families and creating stability,” said Tamara Dourney, Executive Director of Pickens County Habitat for Humanity. “When women have the opportunity to learn new skills and take an active role in building homes, they’re also building a stronger foundation for their families and their future. Whether you’re on-site with us or supporting from afar, every effort makes a real difference.”
How to Get Involved
Volunteer: No construction experience? No problem! Women Build 2025 provides on-site training and tools.
Fundraise: Can’t attend in person? Join our peer-to-peer fundraising challenge to help raise critical funds for affordable housing.
Sponsor: Businesses and individuals can support Women Build by sponsoring this event or providing materials.
Donate: Every contribution helps us reach our goal of creating safe, affordable housing for families in need.
To learn more, sign up, or donate, visit https://pickenshabitat.org/womenbuild.
Together, we can empower women, strengthen families, and transform communities.
Since 1981, Pickens County Habitat for Humanity has built or renovated more than 100 homes, serving over 325 individuals. As the second-oldest Habitat affiliate in South Carolina, PCHFH remains committed to providing safe, decent, and affordable housing through community partnerships and volunteer-driven efforts.
For more information, visit pickenshabitat.org.
Easley’s Captain Kimberly Hampton Memorial Library Celebrating 20th Anniversary
EASLEY — The Captain Kimberly Hampton Memorial Library, located at 304 Biltmore Road is Easley, is excited to invite the community to celebrate its 20th anniversary on Thursday, February 27 from 1 – 5 
p.m. This special event will reflect on two decades of service to the residents of Easley and Pickens County and commemorate the library’s enduring role in promoting
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KidsFest and YAMs coming to Hagood Mill on March 15
PICKENS — KidsFest is coming to Hagood Mill Historic Site on Saturday, March 15.
The event, held in partnership with the Young Appalachian Musicians (YAMs), is a family-friendly event featuring performances from local YAMs students, a traditional
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Courier Community Calendar 2-26-25
• SMEC set to host annual oyster roast
St. Michael’s Episcopal Church will host its annual oyster roast from 2-5 p.m. Saturday, March 8, at 1200 Powdersville Road in Easley.
Proceeds from the event benefit multiple charitable organizations in Pickens County. Attendees will be able to enjoy all-you-can-eat oysters, Brunswick stew, sides, and beverages (photo ID required).
If oysters aren’t your favorite, the event offers many additional food options. Tickets are $45 for adults, $10 for children 6-11, and free for children 5 and under. Rain or shine, oyster-shucking takes place
