Sept. 7, 2012 Spartanburg Journal

Upstate residential construction weathering storm, growing rapidly.

PAGE 18

SPARTANBURGJOURNAL Spartanburg, S.C. • Friday, September 7, 2012 • Vol.8, No.36

Honoring the greatest generation

HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT

A local teen works with Honor Flight Upstate to make sure WWII vets see their memorials PAGE 5

Human trafficking is a SC ‘growth industry’

By CHARLES SOWELL | staff

HARVELL PHOTOGRAPHY

ScanSource celebrates 20 years of growth in SC – and beyond PAGE 15

SPARTANBURG PHILHARMONIC EXPLORES BRITISH-AMERICAN CONNECTIONS. PAGE 19

Law enforcement and advocacy groups said human trafficking has become a growth industry in South Carolina in spite of the best efforts of federal, state and local law enforcement.

More often than not the victims are hidden in plain sight, cut off from help by language barriers and the fear of law enforcement instilled in them by their victimizers, say law enforcement and state victims’ advocates.

For now, Spartanburg County seems immune to the spike in human trafficking cases that have spread across the state, sheriff ’s officials said recently.

Lt. Tom Ivey, spokesman for Sheriff Chuck Wright, said deputies haven’t seen a credible case of human trafficking recently and do not see trafficking as a big issue in the county. In Greenville County, however, deputies make about one case a month.

In 2011, the latest year for which figures are available, there were 170 calls statewide to the Polaris Project, a worldwide group dedicated to ending slavery, and 19,000 nationwide. Myrtle Beach had the most calls with 43. Greenville tallied two and Spartanburg eight.

TRAFFICKING continued on PAGE 8

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Cindy Landrum clandrum@thespartanburgjournal.com April A. Morris amorris@thespartanburgjournal.com Charles Sowell csowell@thespartanburgjournal.com CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Dick Hughes dhughes@thespartanburgjournal.com PHOTOGRAPHER

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Transitions Oils by Eddie Schrieffer and Robyn Spence

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69˚

Saturday night. A little cooler on Sunday.

WYFF News 4 Chief Meteorologist

John Cessarich

89˚

68˚ SATURDAY 82˚

64˚

SUNDAY

79˚

“

A strong cold frontwill trigger scat“tered showers, storms for Saturday and

FRIDAY

For weather information, 24 hours a day, visit WYFF4.com

A very warm afternoon

2 SPARTANBURG JOURNAL | SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

Scattered showers, storms

A few showers around

journal community

Worth Repeating They Said It

“Our job is to help educate, identify and use change. That’s what we are good at.”

Mike Baur, CEO and a founder of ScanSource, a Greenville-based international supplier of bar code systems, communications and security products.

U.S. Congressman Trey Gowdy Representing the 4th District of South Carolina

Quote of the week

“They’re passing away every day and I want every veteran who can to see it.”

“The Constitution of the United States Rights and Responsibilities in a Republic” Tuesday, September 18 7:00 p.m.

Sansbury Campus Life Center Ballroom University of South Carolina Upstate

Belton-Honea Path High School student Gracyn Moore, on why she is using her 16th birthday party to raise money to send veterans on Honor Flight Network trips to see the Washington war memorials.

More information: (864) 503-5731 • www.uscupstate.edu/constitutionday

“I think that the country needs some sort of confidence builder, and I don’t think you’re going to get that if the current administration stays in office.”

Realtor Seabrook Marchant, on the common worry throughout the construction industry about “what’s going to happen in November.”

“When the runners cross the finish line, we can take care of 22 counties in the Upstate.”

Bill Sorochak, executive director of the Upstate affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, on the fundraising importance of this month’s 5K Race for the Cure.

Don’t let cataracts slow you down!

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SEPTEMBER 7, 2012 | SPARTANBURG Journal 3

JOURNAL COMMUNITY

Trace pollutants found in Pacolet River DHEC says levels fall within federal standards

By CHARLES SOWELL | staff

Top Chef.

Chart Topper.

4 SPARTANBURG JOURNAL | SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

Results from the Spartanburg Area Initiative raise as many questions as they answer about the compromised Pacolet River system, said experts on water quality issues.

The initiative, which was started early this year in response to resident complaints, is designed to settle once and for all questions on water quality issues in the heavily industrialized river corridor.

Overall, results obtained by Department of Health and Environmental Control specialists found most of the streams in the area had pollutants, but it was rare to find them at levels exceeding federal standards, which is to be expected, said Dave Hargett, an independent consultant on water quality issues.

“It is extremely difficult to determine what conditions were like back before the day of pollution standards enforcement,” he said. “You’d expect to find some remnants, particularly in sediments. The water should test clean.”

However, there were a few spots that tested with heavy concentrations of pollutants, centered on a small tributary of Four Mile Creek located off Country Club Road.

The tiny stream feeds a small lake that is surrounded by the Oak Creek subdivision, a neighborhood of highend middle-class homes.

Hargett was quick to point out that the pollution hot spots center mainly around metals and poly-aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), a family of known cancer-causing chemicals, which have no means of transmission to the surrounding neighborhood.

“The Lake Conestee Nature Park in Greenville is in a similar situation,” Hargett said. “If there were a way for the pollutants located there to be transmitted to the general public, this would be a Superfund site. As it is, they are covered with a layer of water and clean sediments.

“What they need to determine is if the samplings were accurate and, if so, the source of the pollutants,” he said.

“The findings are odd since one site tested hot for metals and another for PAHs. You’d expect the sites to have a mixture of both.”

The study’s origins stretch back to the controversy over pollution in the Cannon’s Campground neighborhood, located near the former Hoechst Celanese site on the north side of Interstate I-85, approximately eight miles northeast of Spartanburg.

DHEC has confirmed environmental contamination at the site from past operations.

DHEC has been overseeing assessment and cleanup by Hoechst Celanese at the site since the late 1980s.

Overall, the study found elevated levels of pesticides ranging from 7 ppb to 120 ppb. DDT was the most common elevated pesticide.

“Storm runoff still contributes DDT to surface water systems despite being banned in 1972. DDT does not degrade rapidly in the environment. The levels of pesticide detected are consistent with other urban streams in the U.S.,” DHEC said in the report.

“PCBs were also detected in samples throughout the study area. PCBs were used as insulation in transformers and in old fluorescent light fixtures.

They do not break down quickly in the environment. Only two locations had levels elevated above sediment screening values. While lower than the sediment screening levels, the PCBs detected in Cherokee Creek are being addressed via ongoing work at the Auriga facility.”

Semi-volatiles, specifically PAHs, were detected in samples across the study area.

“PAHs are common byproducts of incomplete combustion from vehicles and other sources like furnaces,” the report said. “They are used in gasoline, asphalt and wood preservatives.

Storm water runoff from urban areas typically contains PAHs. Several of the elevated PAH concentrations detected during this investigation will lead to additional sampling to confirm the levels and determine if a source can be located.”

Contact Charles Sowell at csowell@thespartanburgjournal.com.

JOURNAL COMMUNITY

Sweet 16 seeks to honor the greatest generation Upstate teen opts to use party as Honor Flight fundraiser

By APRIL A. MORRIS | staff

For nearly a decade, Honor Flight Network trips have transported veterans to visit the memorials dedicated to their service and their comrades-in-arms. On Sept.

18, the Honor Flight Upstate S.C. will take 75 World War II veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit the World War II, Vietnam, Korean and Iwo Jima memorials, in addition to the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery.

There’s an urgency to the mission of making sure the veterans have the opportunity to make the trip – many are in their 80s and some are more than 100 years old. Since 2007, the Upstate chapter has flown more than 600 veterans to Washington, D.C. With the upcoming flight, they will exceed 700.

The flights are free for veterans, and the nonprofit Honor Flight Upstate S.C.

The Doctor Is In

Gracyn Moore

relies solely on contributions to send veterans on each flight, said director of development Jason Hucks. The staff is made up of volunteers and all donations go to fund the flights, which cost approximately $50,000 each.

“We have a limited amount of time to say ‘thank you’ to this generation,” Hucks said.

One almost-16-year-old Upstate girl wholeheartedly agrees – so much so that she’s turned her 16th birthday party into a fundraiser for the network.

Gracyn Moore, a student at BeltonHonea Path High School and member of the Air Force Junior ROTC, who wants

to attend the Air Force Academy, said she and her mother had always planned a big party for that teenage milestone. After her grandfather, veteran Carris Christian, died without seeing the memorials, Moore decided she wanted her Sweet 16th birthday to count for something more. “They’re passing away every day, and I want every veteran who can to see it,” she said.

Moore has been raising money since July, selling cutout stars for a Wall of Heroes and speaking to various groups. She was surprised at the generosity of the Upstate and the attention her effort garnered.

With $4,000 already raised, “I’ve surpassed my fundraising goals twice,” she said.

“Now I’ve set my goal at $10,000 so I can send 16 veterans for my 16th birthday.”

And the Sweet 16 party, scheduled for Sept. 8 at the Ebenezer Fire Department in Anderson, will still be the unforgettable celebration she and her mother envisioned – hundreds of people are expected to attend the event that will feature a Colors and Rifle demonstration, dessert and dancing.

Hucks said such community support is vital to the continued success of Honor Flight’s mission.

The network is launching a grassroots campaign to ask 1,000 donors to pledge $10 per month, which would allow the network to add an additional flight each year. One community supporter, the Upstate South Carolina Chapter of the Defenders Motorcycle Club, a group of law enforcement, military, emergency services and public safety personnel, recently contributed $6,000 to help fund the September flight.

Contact April A. Morris at amorris@thespartanburgjournal.com.

SO YOU KNOW Gracyn Moore’s Sweet 16 Fundraiser Sept. 8, 7 p.m.

Ebenezer Fire Department 1416 Due West, Hwy., Anderson 864-933-4865 or ff.for.life@hotmail.com Honor Flight Upstate S.C. Sept. 18 864-869-VETS www.honorflightupstatesc.com At 8 p.m. that day, the public can greet returning veterans at Greenville-Spartanburg Airport.

Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System welcomes the following new physicians: Emergency Medicine Thomas Boyd, M.D. Kelly Grant, M.D. Emergency Center Spartanburg Regional 101 E. Wood Street Spartanburg • 560-6000 Family Medicine Mary Sue Brewton, D.O. Pacolet Family Medicine 7221 South Pine Street Pacolet • 474-1528 Lisa Carroll, M.D. Family Physicians of Boiling Springs 3941 Highway 9 Boiling Springs • 560-3650 Frances Kunda, M.D. Troy Phillips, D.O. Center for Family Medicine Regional Outpatient Center, Suite 510 853 N. Church Street Spartanburg • 560-6193

Gastroenterology Andrew Taber, M.D. Gastroenterology Associates Regional Outpatient Center, Suite 620 853 N. Church Street Spartanburg • 573-7511

Minor Care Wayne Davis, M.D. Manuel Dorna, M.D. Westside Minor Care 8311 Warren H. Abernathy Hwy. Spartanburg • 560-9696

Inpatient Medicine Amy Flandry, M.D. Marie Witte, M.D. Spartanburg Inpatient Specialists Spartanburg Regional 101 E. Wood Street Spartanburg • 560-6654

Surgery Derek Brenda, M.D. Village Surgical Associates Village at Pelham, Suite 2500 2755 S. Highway 14 Greer • 849-9555

GYN Oncology David Griffin, M.D., Ph.D. James Hunter, M.D. Regional GYN Oncology, Third Floor Gibbs Cancer Center 101 E. Wood Street Spartanburg • 560-1915 spartanburgregional.com/physicians For a referral, call 864-560-7999.

SRPG82E

SEPTEMBER 7, 2012 | SPARTANBURG JOURNAL 5

JOURNAL COMMUNITY

OPINION VOICES FROM YOUR COMMUNITY, HEARD HERE

FROM THE EDITORIAL DESK

Battling for the microphone Based on the howls heard ‘round the state, the battle for credit may outrank any fight for actual reform when legislators reconvene in January to grouse about how Nikki Haley stole their thunder once again.

The governor’s plane-hopping trip to unveil her ethics package before heading for Tampa last week drew bipartisan sneers from elected leaders whose main beef seemed to be that she got to the microphones first.

As always, Haley’s timing was impeccable – not just in self-promotion before stepping onto the convention stage, but in saving the roll-out until she was safely past her own ethics hearings. Our governor is warmly familiar with the loopholes she now seeks to close.

But all ironies aside, Haley’s detractors would do us all a far greater good if, instead of teeth-gnashing, they tried to embrace that truism about the limitless accomplishments made possible when no one cares who gets the credit.

South Carolina’s ethics rules are among the country’s weakest. The national Center for Public Integrity ranked the state the sixth most corruptible in the nation earlier this year after a study that called out our campaign finance regulations, asset disclosure laws and impotent ethics commission for specific criticism.

State disclosure laws are so opaque they don’t even require our political class to reveal who they work for or what they do – which is why Haley, as a legislator, could work as a consultant for a Columbia engineering firm that did business with the state and keep the information to herself.

The law also allowed Haley to take a paycheck as fundraiser for a Lexington hospital foundation while promoting, as a legislator, the hospital’s bid to open a heart-surgery center.

Haley correctly says she broke no disclosure laws and did nothing illegal, as the House Ethics Commission so ruled earlier this spring. She also says – quite rightly – that this systemic lack of transparency cannot go on.

The changes Haley laid out in her plane-hopping tour of the state are the barest minimum that should clear the General Assembly next year, and legislators know it. Most have made the reform lists for years: Full legislative compliance with the state’s open records laws. Total income disclosure from elected officials, including who pays them and how much. Stiffer recusal requirements for lawyer-legislators appearing before boards on behalf of private clients. The dissolution of legislative ethics committees in favor of onestop enforcement by the state Ethics Commission.

And the only truly new one: no incumbent exemptions for election filings, forcing incumbent office-holders to follow the same election paperwork rules as their challengers.

That last reform – raised in response to the 250 candidates tossed off the ballot thanks to paperwork malfunctions – may well be the lever that forces an ethics package into law in 2013.

Ethics bills are the reruns of the General Assembly, on perpetual loop year after year. They typically collapse under the weight of all the good-government reforms legislators pile on in the annual who-gets-the credit race. Why focus on forging a law that might pass when posturing gets you more?

However, the 2012 ballot debacle cannot go uncorrected – and the outrage it provoked has awakened public sensitivities to other ethical failings too long ignored.

Reform is in the air. The question now is whether the governor and her competitors for the microphone have the character to turn reformist zeal into law – and share the credit.

A dream come true A recent column by Greenville attorney Ralph Gleaton introduced readers to the new federal immigration program known as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). I would like to share my observations, both as a practitioner in this field and as a private citizen, on the positive development of DACA – a virtual oasis for undocumented young people in a harsh desert created by 20-plus years of congressional policy failure.

DACA will benefit many young people who have spent their formative years in this country. In my office I have reviewed countless South Carolina school diplomas and report cards, in some instances reaching back to kindergarten. Proud parents have brought certificates of academic achievement and spoken to me of their dreams for their children to attend Greenville Tech and USC Upstate. Nearly all of the applicants I have met speak English as well as our own children.

This is no accident: The United States Supreme Court ruled 30 years ago that all children, regardless of parentage or immigration status, were guaranteed a free public education through high school. However, after graduation, the states may decide who may attend public universities. DACA will hopefully help correct this imbalance.

The new measure will bring thousands of young people into the full daylight of mainstream America. Although approval of a DACA application carries no right to permanent residence or citizenship, it does ensure permission to work, and with it the opportunity to apply for a Social Security card and (its supporters hope) a state driver’s license. It will be exciting to see how they will use these to their advantage to land better jobs, start and grow businesses, and contribute to our social and economic stability.

The DACA program represents a muchneeded measure of common sense in a problematic, if not unreasonable, immigration law system. DACA may be viewed as part of “prosecutorial discretion,” a policy that began to take form about a year ago. The Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) dragnet had accumulated record numbers of deportations, roughly

IN MY OWN WORDS by ALLEN C. LADD

400,000 per year, with many more in the enforcement “pipeline.” ICE realized the system could not process – much less actually deport – all of these individuals.

And so in June 2011, the ICE director began issuing directives encouraging field personnel and attorneys to weigh positive and negative factors in deciding whether to prosecute low-priority cases.

The results are encouraging, as parents of American citizen children have been allowed (albeit without work permits) to remain in the country, avoiding dislocation and preserving family unity.

This trend toward discretion and deferral has been only a small point of light in a very dark and disappointing era of our nation’s immigration policy. Over more than 20 years in practice, I have witnessed a relentless tightening of the laws as Congress has forced a drastic reduction in professionallevel work visas (now at a mere one-third of the former allotment), stiffened requirements for religious worker visas and imposed a draconian 10-year bar on undocumented applicants for legal status – even for spouses and parents of American citizens.

Which way will this see-sawing between reasonable rule-making in the Department of Homeland Security and empty rhetoric in Congress tilt in the coming months?

Would a Romney White House choose to dismantle deferred action? Would a secondterm President Obama take up the banner of comprehensive immigration reform in Congress? We must wait and see.

Allen Ladd has been a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association since 1990 and represents immigration clients in the western Carolinas and elsewhere in the world. In 2013 he will expand his firm’s services to U.S. income tax representation of foreign nationals and American expatriates. His office is near Fluor Field in the West End.

IN MY OWN WORDS FEATURES ESSAYS BY RESIDENTS WITH PARTICULAR EXPERTISE WHO WANT TO TELL READERS ABOUT ISSUES IMPORTANT TO THEM. THE JOURNAL ALSO WELCOMES LETTERS TO THE EDITOR (MAXIMUM LENGTH OF 200 WORDS). PLEASE INCLUDE ADDRESS AND DAYTIME PHONE NUMBER. ALL LETTERS WILL BE CONFIRMED BEFORE PUBLICATION. WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO EDIT ALL LETTERS FOR LENGTH. PLEASE CONTACT SUSAN SIMMONS AT SSIMMONS@THESPARTANBURGJOURNAL.COM.

6 SPARTANBURG JOURNAL | SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

JOURNAL COMMUNITY

Upstate addresses West Nile virus threat

By APRIL A. MORRIS | staff

On the heels of a West Nile virus outbreak in Texas, the Centers for Disease Control has recorded the largest United States outbreak to date of the disease spread by mosquitoes.

Nationwide, the CDC reported 1,590 cases in 2012 as of Aug. 29, the highest number of reported cases by this point in the summer since the virus was first detected in the United States in 1999. 2012’s total may exceed the epidemic years of 2002 and 2003, which had about 3,000 cases each, according to the CDC. The CDC reported 733 West Nile cases in Texas as of Aug. 28, resulting in 30 deaths, mainly in the Dallas area. This year in South Carolina there were 17 human cases and no deaths as of Sept. 1. No cases were reported in Greenville County; however, one case each was reported in neighboring Spartanburg, Pickens and Anderson counties. Other cases were reported in Aiken, Berkeley, Charleston, Lexington, Marlboro, Orangeburg and Richland counties, according to the SC Department of Health

September 7

Andrea Bryan, M.D. Carolina Cardiology 877 W. Faris Rd., Ste. B Greenville, 455-6900

Dermatology Allison Brown, M.D. Carolina Dermatology 920 Woodruff Rd. Greenville, 233-6338

Family Medicine David Hoenicke, M.D. Riverside FP–Eastside 215 Halton Rd. Greenville, 454-2700

completed. He said there were not an increased number of requests in July; however, the number of August calls has not been reported yet.

The City of Spartanburg did do mosquito spraying, but discontinued the practice about three years ago, said spokesman Will Rothschild. He said the spraying was abandoned because the city did not find it effective and residents were concerned about the health risks associated with it.

Four out of five people who are infected with West Nile virus do not exhibit any symptoms, according to the CDC. Symptoms appear three to 14 days after infection. Mild symptoms include fever, headache and body aches, and occasionally a skin rash and swollen lymph glands.

Approximately one in 150 people infected with the virus will develop inflammation of the brain (West Nile encephalitis) or inflammation of the area surrounding the brain and spinal cord (meningitis).

Symptoms can include headache, high fever, neck stiffness, coma, convulsions and paralysis, according to the CDC. Beasley says there are various steps the

public can take to protect against mosquito bites and West Nile virus, including using repellent, staying indoors at dusk or dawn when mosquitoes are most active, covering exposed skin and dumping out any standing water that could allow mosquitoes to breed.

“West Nile is out there, just like the flu, and there are some good-sense steps to protect yourself,” Beasley said.

Contact April A. Morris at amorris@thespartanburgjournal.com.

West Nile Virus (as of Aug. 31) COUNTY

POSITIVE CASES

Pickens Anderson Spartanburg Greenwood Aiken Lexington Richland Orangeburg Berkeley Charleston Marlboro

1 1 1 1 5 1 3 1 1 1 1

PH YSICIAN UPDATE

GHS welcomes these new physicians!

Cardiology

and Environmental Control.

Nationwide, the CDC has recorded 65 deaths from the disease so far this year, mostly in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma and South Dakota.

DHEC officials monitor mosquitoes, livestock and birds for appearances of the disease. The first cases in the state were reported in late July, said DHEC’s Jim Beasley.

Beasley said counties and cities employ various mosquito control methods.

Trey Eubanks, city administrator for Mauldin, says that August rains prompted city employees to spray in the early-morning hours using a truck-mounted fogger.

Eubanks said residents have made requests for the spraying this year and only one expressed concern about the treatment last year. “We’ve received multiple requests and our citizens are pleased to know that we are offering this service,” he said.

Neither the city nor county of Greenville have a spraying schedule, said county spokesperson Bob Mihalic, but residents can call a mosquito hotline to request spraying through a county contractor. Residents are placed on a list and notified by postcard when the service is

Geriatrics

Neurology

Aye Aung, M.D. Center for Success in Aging 255 Enterprise Dr., Ste. 101 Greenville, 454-8120

Kathleen Woschkolup, M.D. Neuroscience Associates 200 Patewood Dr., Ste. B350 Greenville, 454-4500

Hand Surgery

OB/GYN

Nick Pappas, M.D. Steadman Hawkins Clinic of the Carolinas 105 Doctors Dr. Greenville, 797-7060

Erin Thurston, M.D. Greenville Ob Gyn Associates 2 Memorial Medical Dr. Greenville, 295-4210

Da’Keya Logan, M.D. Pediatric Associates–Easley 800 N. A St. Easley, 855-0001

Primary Care Sports Medicine Neha Chowdhary, M.D. Steadman Hawkins Clinic of the Carolinas 200 Patewood Dr., Ste. C100 Greenville, 454-SHCC (7422)

Pediatrics Internal Medicine Sallie Areford, M.D. Cypress IM–Patewood 200 Patewood Dr., Ste. B460 Greenville, 454-2226

Ann Marie Edwards, M.D. Pediatric Associates– Spartanburg 1686 Skylyn Dr., Ste. 201 Spartanburg, 582-8135

Megan Witt, M.D. Cross Creek IM 50 Cross Park Ct. Greenville, 797-7035

Joshua Brownlee, M.D. Pediatric Infectious Disease 200 Patewood Dr., Ste. A200 Greenville, 454-5130

ghs.org

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SEPTEMBER 7, 2012 | SPARTANBURG JOURNAL 7

journal community trafficking continued from cover

Art Exhibit: Transitions The Artists’ Guild of Spartanburg presents local artists Robyn Spence and Eddie Schrieffer’s Transitions: Coast to Mill Towns, Sept.

4-28, Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free for public viewing. These oil paintings depict South Carolina coastal and mill village scenes.

Receptions: Opening on Fri., Sept. 7, 5:30-9 p.m. and ArtWalk on Thur., Sept. 20, 5-9 p.m. Both are free.

Contemporary Still Life Exhibit Dr. Henry Fagen curated this exhibit of still life paintings, collected from artists from all over the country. In partnership, the Spartanburg Art Museum and USC Upstate will show portions of this fine example of one of art’s most well-known genres. At SAM, the exhibit run thru Oct. 20 and is open Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Art Exhibit: School District 4 Every month, a different student exhibit is hosted at the Chapman Cultural Center. It is always free and open Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

This month, see the work of students from Spartanburg School District 4. Aug. 29-Oct. 7.

Threads of Our Heritage Fiber Artist Jody Raines presents a collection of 10 landscape quilts and five thread paintings on silk. Free and open to the public Mon.Sat., 10 a.m. 5 p.m. at the Chapman Cultural Center. Aug. 29-Oct. 7.

Reception: Thurs., Sept. 20, during ArtWalk.

Only a tiny fraction of the calls for help make it to Polaris, victims’ advocates say.

What had been a trickle of reported cases of trafficking has increased to a steady flow of reports, said Patricia Ravenhorst, director of the South Carolina Immigrant Victim Network, a group devoted to helping with immigrant issues.

“Mostly we hear from people who have escaped from their captors or from people who have helped them escape,” she said.

“It cuts across all ethnicities. We hear from East Europeans, Southeast Asians, Pacific Islanders and, of course, victims from the Hispanic world.”

Lt. Mike Hildebrand of the Greenville County Sheriff ’s Office, who teaches courses on human trafficking to law enforcement in North and South Carolina as well as a portion of east Georgia, said trafficking in South Carolina falls into two main categories – the sex trade and agriculture.

“Outside those areas our next largest is the ethnic restaurant business, where victims are used as cooks or dishwashers and hidden from the public’s view,” he said. “On average we encounter about one case of trafficking a month and know there are a lot more in the community.

Music Sandwiched In The Music Foundation of Spartanburg presents the Gregg Akkerman Duo at this free lunchtime concert at Spartanburg’s downtown library, Wednesday, Sept. 12, 12:15 p.m. Swinging Songs of Romance will be served for your listening pleasure. Bring your lunch or buy one there.

The King and I The Spartanburg Little Theatre kicks off its season with this Broadway-classic musical. It’s the romatic story about a charming tutor, a headstrong King, and a lot of children, set in the exotic Orient. Expect a sellout! Fri. & Sat., Sept. 7&8, @ 8 p.m. Sun., Sept.

9, @ 3 p.m. In the David W. Reid Theatre.

Auditions: The Nutcracker Ballet Spartanburg is auditioning for mice, soilders, and the many characters in this Christmas-classic ballet. Sat., Sept. 8. 9-10 a.m.: ages 8, 9, 10. 10-11 a.m.: ages 11, 12, 13. 11-12:30: 14 and older.

Details: 583-0339.

Auditions: Moonlight and Magnolias The Spartanburg Little Theatre needs three men and one woman for this comedy about the making of the movie Gone with the Wind.

Mon. & Tues., Sept. 10 & 11, 7-9 p.m. in the David W. Reid Theatre.

Spartanburg Philharmonic Orchestra The Music Foundation of Spartanburg kicks off its season with Masterworks I on Sat., Sept. 8, @ 7 p.m. in Twichell Auditorium/ Converse College. You’ll hear William’s Olympic Fanfare, Barber’s Toccata Festiva, and Britten’s The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra. Guest artist: Brennan Szafron on the organ.

542-ARTS ChapmanCulturalCenter.org 200 E. Saint John St. Spartanburg

8 SPARTANBURG Journal | SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

1

Most of the cases we get start off as trafficking, but end up being handed off to federal immigration authorities.”

Federal officials can trace a victim’s case back through several states, while local officers are limited to their own jurisdictions, he said.

Hildebrand said a case could start with the victim crossing the border in Arizona and then being taken to Dallas to work in the sex trade. The next stop may be

with the promise of work, Ravenhorst said. What they get is abuse and slavery – working for no pay in miserable conditions and subject to constant physical and mental abuse.

In the case of legal foreigners, victimizers take their work permits, forcing them to work in illegal occupations like prostitution – as was the case in East Tennessee last year when federal authorities prosecuted a large prostitution ring.

“This is just a continuation of what we had before the Civil War. It’s slavery, pure and simple.”

Lt. Mike Hildebrand of the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, on human trafficking in the Upstate

Atlanta for another round of prostitution and then on to South Carolina, where the victim is held in bondage in the kitchen of a local ethnic restaurant.

Usually victims are picked up on unrelated charges and their victimization does not come to light until they are interviewed, he said. “This is just a continuation of what we had before the Civil War. It’s slavery, pure and simple.”

Virtually all of the undocumented alien victims are lured across the border

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The economic downturn left the women so desperate for work they were willing to do anything, advocates say.

Laura Hudson, director of the South Carolina Crime Victims’ Council, said the problem with trafficking is most prevalent along the coast, where many victims are forced to work for large agricultural interests and for prostitution rings.

“It’s gotten bad enough that we’ve opened a couple of shelters to house alien victims,” she said. “The largest of our shelters is located in the Pee Dee area of the state.”

The new statewide human trafficking law, passed this year and due to take effect next year, will be a great help in prosecuting trafficking cases, she said.

“These cases will now go to the statewide Grand Jury, which can compel testimony,” she said. “We had to fight hard to get this passed and got a great deal of help from Polaris in getting it through.”

Polaris ranks South Carolina’s new law highly.

Hudson, Ravenhorst and Hildebrand all said educating the public is the biggest tool they have in fighting trafficking.

“It’s sort of like the meth epidemic was several years back,” Hildebrand said. “We had a lot of people (officers) working on it, but could not get ahead of the problem.

“Then Sheriff (Steve) Loftis started a program to educate the public on what to look for in a meth lab; how one works, what to look for, and how it smelled. After the program of visiting churches and local groups took hold, we started to make significant progress.

“Human trafficking will take the same kind of effort and the public’s involvement.”

Contact Charles Sowell at csowell@thespartanburgjournal.com.

JOURNAL COMMUNITY

CASE FILES

LOCAL LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

Bride’s lawsuit alleges ruined wedding

A wreck involving a U.S. Postal Service vehicle ruined a woman’s chance to walk down the aisle at her wedding, according to a lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court in Greenville.

Mary Sullivan Anthony was traveling on Mills Avenue in Spartanburg on March 5, 2011, when a vehicle driven by U.S. Postal Service employee Scott Fontanilla pulled out in her path and the vehicles collided, the lawsuit claims. She suffered fractures to both her legs.

Anthony’s wedding was a few weeks after the wreck. The lawsuit said she was forced to use a wheelchair, walker and crutches for all the events, including the ceremony, where she was unable to walk down the aisle.

The lawsuit claims Fontanilla was operating a cell phone while driving.

Anthony is seeking unspecified damages.

Supreme Court rules on Keowee marina plans

A divided South Carolina Supreme Court upheld a lower court ruling that three men who bought into the company that proposed developing a marina on Lake Keowee buy out the man who started the company and put 60,000 shares of stock in escrow.

Andrew Ballard had worked for years crafting a plan for the marina through Warpath Development Inc. He eventually sought the investment of Tim Roberson, Rick Thoennes and Rick Thoennes III, according to court records.

According to an opinion written by Justice Kaye Hearn,

September 7

when the marina did not develop the way the three had hoped, they began to exclude Ballard from involvement in Warpath.

Ballard filed suit.

The circuit court found the appellants had acted oppressively to Ballard as a minority shareholder and ordered the purchase of Ballard’s stock at fair market value. The court also ordered them to place 60,000 shares of Warpath stock in escrow.

“Relationships in business, like any other relationship, can quickly turn sour when they are predicated on unmet expectations, whether justified or not,” Hearn wrote.

Justices Don Beatty and John Kittredge concurred. Justice Costa M. Pleicones and Chief Justice Jean Toal dissented.

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Appeal to proceed in Pelzer double homicide case

The South Carolina Court of Appeals will hear on Sept. 10 the appeal of a man convicted of killing two men outside a house party in Pelzer that was organized on MySpace to settle an ongoing feud.

Brandon Heath Clark contends the trial court judge erred in denying his motion for a directed verdict because the 13th Circuit Solicitor’s Office failed to present evidence he fired the gunshots that killed the victims.

Clark was convicted of killing 21-year-old Kamron Wade and 26-year-old Christopher Garland.

Wade and Garland were shot inside their car as they left a house party in rural Pelzer in July 2006.

Clark was sentenced to 45 years in prison.

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N E W S T H AT Y O U C A N U S E

Prostate Screenings Thurs., Sept. 13 • 6:30-8:30 p.m. • North Greenville Hospital Tues., Sept. 18 • 5:30-7:30 p.m. • Hillcrest Memorial Hospital Tues., Sept. 25 • 5:30-8:30 p.m. • Greer Memorial Hospital Men age 50+ or those with a family history of prostate disease are urged to schedule an exam. Free; registration required: ghs.org/360healthed or 1-877-GHS-INFO (447-4636).

Be the Match! Save a Life!

Thurs., Sept. 20 • 3-7 p.m. • Greenville Memorial Hospital Help a patient needing a bone marrow donor by joining the BE THE MATCH® registry! Just complete a registration form and give a cheek swab of cells. Must be 18-60 years old. Learn more at BeTheMatch.org.

Power Struggle Prevention Tools

Don’t let pain keep you from an active lifestyle.

Join GHS orthopaedist Brandon Broome, M.D., as he discusses arthritis symptoms, causes and treatment. Free; registration required: ghs.org/360healthed or 1-877-GHS-INFO (447-4636).

InQuickER Holds Your Spot for ER & Urgent Care Save a place in line at any GHS MD360® or ER. Just register online at ghs.org/inquicker, wait in comfort, arrive at your projected time and see a nurse within 15 minutes! This optional service is for non-life threatening and minor emergencies.

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Tues., Sept. 25 • 6:30-8 p.m. • Jean M. Smith Library Branch/Greer This positive discipline workshop for parents explores ways to create structure and balance at home. Free; registration required: ghs.org/360healthed or 1-877-GHS-INFO (447-4636).

Arthritis 101: Getting You Back to What You Love Wed., Oct. 3 • Noon-1 p.m. • Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium (385 N. Church St.) 120655

SEPTEMBER 7, 2012 | SPARTANBURG JOURNAL 9

Evaluating Employee Strengths In “Good to Great”, author Jim Collins emphasizes the need to get the “right people on the bus and in the right seat.”

This idea of hiring the best people LEE YARBOROUGH and placing them in the role that best suits their strengths is a common best practice. However, it is a difficult practice which requires strong management leadership.

In the HR field, I often see personnel issues based on the fact that the employee was not in the right seat of the bus. Or maybe on the wrong bus entirely. Once an employee is hired and a manager realizes that the employee is not working out, a decision needs to be made. Is there another job in the company in which this employee would excel? Can the job description be modified to fit this person’s strengths or is this person not the right member for your team?

As humans, we tend to give people extra chances or overlook their weaknesses, rather than deal with a potential confrontation. But as managers, we must evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each employee and make a decision on how each person benefits the team.

If even one member of your team is not in the right position, then it can slowly hurt the whole organization.

When evaluating employees, a friend always asks herself, “If I started my own company today, would I want this person to follow me?” If you can’t answer this in the affirmative for all of your employees, then you need to evaluate why. It may be as simple as changing their “seat on the bus” or you may have to tell them that they are not on the “right bus” at all.

But when you finally have the bus filled with the right people, your company will travel great distances.

PC grad opens for Arizona Cardinals Coaches call Justin Bethel a ‘hidden gem’

By ED McGRANAHAN | contributor

Presbyterian College isn’t one of those football greenhouses that produce players like so many tomatoes, which is why Justin Bethel’s story is ripe Justin Bethel for retelling.

Bethel was a sixth-round pick in April by the Arizona Cardinals, the highest of nine former Presbyterian players drafted to the NFL, the first in 43 years. A safety from Columbia, he led Presbyterian in tackles and interceptions and carved a niche as a kick blocker, a breathtaking skill that drew rave notices during Arizona’s preseason.

When Bethel blocked a kick for the third time in three preseason games, the video went viral, and Arizona coach Ken Whisenhunt said Bethel was a “safe bet” to make the roster out of camp.

When Arizona opens the season Sunday with Seattle, Bethel will be on the team.

Football was not his career choice when Bethel entered Presbyterian. His high school football career began when Jeff Scott, his coach at Blythewood High, was starting the football program and needed players. One of his assistants plucked Bethel out of the school jazz band. (Bethel plays the drums. His

PRESBYTERIAN COLLEGE ATHLETICS

JOURNAL COMMUNITY

father, Chris Bethel, is a pastor and gospel singer.)

Bethel was also experimenting with business: He learned to bake in a culinary arts class his sophomore year, which led to a small business preparing and selling cheesecakes. Bethel later expanded his menu to lunches, pizza and other pastries.

Football and music were among many interests.

Blythewood played a junior varsity schedule its first season, then won state championship the next year, its first with a varsity team. Scott moved on to Presbyterian, where he joined former Byrnes High School head coach Bobby Bentley.

When Bethel was a high school senior, he was offered a half scholarship for football at Charleston Southern University, but was more inclined to pursue his interest in food. He applied for a scholarship to Johnson & Wales University, where he hoped to enroll in the culinary arts program.

However, Scott asked him to visit Presbyterian and meet Bentley. Bethel was offered a full scholarship to play football and became the last player Bentley signed that year. Scott returned to Clemson, his alma mater, later that year and is now the receivers coach on Dabo Swinney’s staff.

Bentley returned to Byrnes, where he is a school district administrator and offensive coach. Harold Nichols replaced Bentley at PC and built the Blue Hose defense around Bethel.

Over the next three seasons, Bethel earned all-conference honors each year and was twice selected Big South Conference defensive player of the year, leading PC in tackles and interceptions, and twice special teams’ player of the year, leading the league

“God gave me a gift. I have been blessed.”

Justin Bethel

Bethel was invited to the NFL Combine last winter, where he blew away scouts with his athleticism and secured his viability as a draft pick. None of his coaches could quantify precisely what made Bethel a proficient kick blocker, agreeing that he seems to have the innate qualities of quickness, anticipation and fearlessness.

Bethel, too, doesn’t find it simple to explain. He seems content to attribute it to his passion for building strength and speed and a willingness to take this next step on a new journey thousands of miles from home.

Initially, most of his work will be on special teams while he learns the nuances of the pro game, though in Arizona’s final preseason game he led the team with seven tackles at safety. A member of the Cardinals said they believe Bethel was a hidden gem in the draft.

“God gave me a gift,” Bethel said. “I have been blessed.”

Contact Ed McGranahan at emcgranahan @thespartanburgjournal.com.

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His coaches remember a mature young man with a drive to succeed.

Scott said he was the “perfect example of a kid who made himself a football player in the weight room.” Bentley characterized him as “sort of a renaissance man.” Nichols spoke of his leadership skills and the example he set for teammates.

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JOURNAL COMMUNITY

Komen welcomes new race route and director 5K Race for the Cure set for Sept. 29

By APRIL A. MORRIS | staff

The SC Mountains to Midlands affiliate of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation unveiled a new, more scenic route for the Race for the Cure that winds through downtown Greenville, including Main Street.

The Upstate Komen affiliate serves 22 counties in South Carolina in an effort to end breast cancer. It funds breast health screening, treatment, education and support programs along with national research.

More than 5,000 runners pounded the pavement in last year’s race, said new executive director Bill Sorochak, and organizers are hoping for 6,000 this year. The 5K race is the affiliate’s largest fundraising event and helps fund the grants that the organization distributes to Upstate hospitals and community programs.

Sorochak has worked the last 17 years in

September 7

the nonprofit sector after leaving a position with a Fortune 500 company.

It is rewarding to provide a service rather than a product, he said, and the Upstate is generous in supporting nonprof- Sorochak its, including the Komen effort. “People are coming on board for the mission,” he said.

Melissa Morell, race co-chair for a second year and daughter of a breast cancer survivor, said in preparation for the race many downtown Greenville merchants will decorate with pink or offer pink merchandise as part of Go Pink for the Cure.

Much of the money raised during the event comes from sponsorships and participant fees, but many runners also raise funds or form teams to fundraise, too, Morell said. There’s a one-mile course for families and walkers who prefer a shorter route, and for those who want to sleep in or who can’t attend, Komen offers the Sleep In for the Cure, where participants make a donation instead of paying a race fee.

“When the runners cross the finish

line, we can take care of 22 counties in the Upstate,” Sorochak said.

Morell said chip timing is available for competitive runners, who typically number around 1,000 each year. In addition, a contingent of about 1,000 survivors will be recognized at the race.

There are approximately 2.5 million survivors in the United States, many of whom are alive thanks to early detection, said Sorochak.

More than 300 volunteers make race day happen and organizers say more are needed. The local affiliate typically raises just under $1 million yearly, with 75 percent of net proceeds benefitting the Upstate, Sorochak said. The rest of the proceeds go to the national organization for research – and much of that money returns to the Upstate due to research at Clemson University, Greenville Hospital System and Spartanburg Regional Hospital System, he said. A major goal of the Upstate affiliate is to break the $1 million threshold.

Sorochak said his move from the corporate to the nonprofit world came because his corporate job involved continuous

travel and left him little time with his family. He loves the variance of his job, he said.

“Every day is different; there is no such thing as a nine-to-five job in a nonprofit.”

Following the Race for the Cure, Sorochak said the organization is planning another fundraiser for March 2013 that’s a departure from the race model. In addition, he wants to increase awareness of the affiliate’s service to the Upstate, along with expanding next year’s Race for the Cure to a weeklong event culminating in the 5K. Sorochak said he’s ready for the challenge of leading the organization and serving the people of the Upstate. “The stories I’ve been hearing so far are wonderful stories of hope and promise.”

Contact April A. Morris at amorris@thespartanburgjournal.com.

SO YOU KNOW SC Mountains to Midlands 2012 Race for the Cure Saturday, Sept. 29, downtown Greenville $15-$27 864-234-5035, www.komenscmm.org

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Girlology & Guyology

Reclaim Your Life With Bariatric Surgery

Sun., Sept. 9, 16, 23 & 30 • Times vary • Patewood and Simpsonville These sessions help ease the transition into puberty through open discussion. Session fee: $50 for mom/daughter or father/ son. For topics, sites or to register, visit the events page at girlology.com.

Thurs., Sept. 20 • 6:30 p.m. • Anderson Road Library Branch John Scott, M.D., a GHS bariatric surgeon, will discuss surgical options for weight loss. Free; registration required.

Take a Loved One to the Doctor Day

Facts About Blood Cancers

Sat., Sept. 15 • 10 a.m.-2 p.m. • West End Cmty. Dvlpmt. Center Obtain health information and get free prostate screenings.

Free clinical breast exams (this is not a mammogram) also are available. For information, visit 1073jamz.com.

Tues., Sept. 25 • Noon-1 p.m. • Hilton Garden Inn/Anderson Learn who is at risk for blood cancers as well as symptoms and treatments from Suzanne Fanning, D.O., of GHS Cancer Centers of the Carolinas. Lunch provided. Free; registration required.

National Cholesterol Education Month

To register, for more information or to see a full schedule of events, visit ghs.org/360healthed or call 1-877-GHS-INFO (447-4636).

Tues., Sept. 18 • Noon-1 p.m. • GHS Life Center® Learn what causes high cholesterol levels in adults and children and the latest treatment options from GHS’ Drew Goldsmith, M.D. Free; Lunch provided. Registration required.

Gynecologic Cancers Thurs., Sept. 20 • Noon-1 p.m. • Greenville Hilton Join GHS gynecologic oncologist Donald Wiper III, M.D., to find out how to prevent and treat gynecologic cancers. Lunch provided. Free; registration required.

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SEPTEMBER 7, 2012 | SPARTANBURG JOURNAL 11

journal community

our community

community news, events and happenings

The Glendale Outdoor Leadership School will host a waterfall hike to Brasstown Falls and Sid’s Falls on Saturday, Sept. 22, at 10 a.m. Master Naturalist Dan Whitten will lead the hikes. The hike to Brasstown Falls is a short, half-mile round-trip hike rated “difficult.” The hike to Sid’s Falls is 1.5 miles round-trip. It is rated “difficult” – however, only the last 100 yards of the hike are actually difficult. Participants should bring a lunch and water bottle. The event is free for Palmetto Conservation Foundation members and $10 for non-members. Call 803-771-0870 to sign up.

The Chapman Cultural Center is teaming up with RCA and 5R Processors Ltd. to help Spartanburg and the surrounding communities properly dispose of their obsolete household electronics. 5R Processors will accept small electronics on Saturday, Sept. 29, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Cultural Center at 200 East Saint John St. The collection is open to the general public and the items are collected at no charge.

Department of Defense-approved hard-drive cleansing services will be available for $10. For a complete list of acceptable items, visit the Recycling Events page at www.5Rprocessors.com or call 715-322-4381.

See & Record Activity In Your Home While You Are Away…

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, and Spartanburg Regional’s Gibbs Cancer Center is observing the month with three free prostate cancer screenings. Screenings are Sept. 17 and 18 from 5-7 p.m. at Gibbs Cancer Center, 101 East Wood St. and Sept. 24 from 5-7 p.m. at Gibbs Cancer Center, 724 Hyatt St., Gaffney. Call 864-560-7999 to register for the screenings.

Patricia Byrd, sales manager at the Spartanburg Convention and Visitors Bureau, recently completed the first portion of a three-year professional development program that will lead to certification as a Tourism Marketing Professional.

Consider the security and peace of mind that comes with knowing your home and family are safe, 24-7, even when you are away.

With TotalControl from Blue Ridge Security and your cell phone or mobile device, you can remotely access up to six cameras 24-7, watch live streaming video, record video clips, and get real time alerts via email.

You can also: • arm or disarm your Blue Ridge Security System • turn lights on or off in your home • set your thermostat • open and close your garage door Call Blue Ridge Security today at 1-888-407-7233 to learn how TotalControl can be a real convenience to you!

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Denny’s and Tom Joyner, host of the highly rated radio program “The Tom Joyner Morning Show,” have launched a nationwide sweepstakes to send one fan and a guest to Philadelphia for a VIP experience at the “Take a Loved One to the Doctor Day Health Festival.” The health festival will take place Oct. 19 and 20 in downtown Philadelphia. The event will include a health expo where attendees can receive free services, including immunizations and dental exams, as well as lifesaving health information, seminars and live entertainment. Fans can enter online at www.takealovedonetophilly.com.

Last week, more than 40 members of AFL’s sales organization volunteered at Project Host Soup Kitchen and Homes of Hope in Greenville. The two teams contributed in a number of ways, including gardening, painting, cleaning and organizing materials. The Project Host volunteer team sorted and organized a pantry, sorted clothing, prepped the day’s lunch and worked in the garden. Volunteers for Homes of Hope spent time at the new transitional house, painting the mudroom and hallway and scraping the front exterior of the house. After completing the on-site work, team members presented each organization with a check for $1,500.

Fifteen year-old Jake Olson, along with McKay Christensen, a leadership coach, will present “Open Your Eyes to a Happier Life” on Sept. 12, at 7 p.m. at Covenant United Methodist Church, 1310 Old Spartanburg Road, Greer. Olson is a wisebeyond-his-years teen who has dealt with cancer his entire life, experiencing the world with limited vision and then in complete darkness. The event is sponsored

by Upstate family Ed, Holly and Brent Benedict through the Heath Benedict Memorial Fund. No tickets are required to attend the evening program and the event is free. For more information, visit www.openyoureyes.org.

If you are sponsoring a community event, we want to share your news. Submit entries to: Spartanburg Journal, Community Briefs, 148 River St., Suite 120, Greenville, SC 29601 or email: spartanburgcommunity@thespartanburgjournal.com

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JOURNAL COMMUNITY

Who’s your doctor?

If you have a physician you like, tell someone you know. If you don’t have a doctor, ask someone you trust for a recommendation. Studies show having a close relationship with a doctor is one of the best ways to stay healthy. So it’s no surprise that upstate residents turn to Greenville Hospital System University Medical Group for dedicated primary care.

As part of the region’s most comprehensive community of care, our board certified family practitioners aren’t just capable – they’re committed to making your health a top priority. And when you get to know a doctor while you’re well, it’s easier to monitor your health and get treated quickly when you’re sick.

Schedule an introductory appointment with one of our family practice doctors by calling a practice listed here, or visit whosyourdoctor.org to learn more.

Family Medicine Powdersville 269-5567 Greenville Family Practice 271-7761 Greer Family Medicine 879-8886 Keystone Family Medicine 454-5000 Laurens Family Practice Laurens 984-0571 • Gray Court 876-4888 Mountain View Family Practice– Memorial Drive 877-9066 Palmetto Medical Associates 968-5123 Riverside Family Practice Eastside 454-2700 • Maxwell Pointe 627-8878 Travelers Rest Family Practice 834-3192

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14 SPARTANBURG JOURNAL | SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

Journal business

The fine print • Residential construction in Upstate outpaces country

Josef Kerscher

Kerscher named business leader of the year

By Dick Hughes | contributor

By Dick Hughes | contributor

Greg Beckner / Staff

The six people who were ScanSource 20 years ago could hold a marketing conference in a small room. Today, it takes a convention center.

Those employees, the company’s entire workforce at its founding in 1992, have now joined more than 500 employees in Greenville and 1,100 worldwide to enable ScanSource to produce annual revenue of $3 billion and net income of $74 million.

They will be among nearly 1,000 customers, vendors and employees at ScanSource’s first inclusive national conference to be held over three days in Greenville starting Monday.

The venue is not one room but several large ones all across Greenville – the TD Convention Center, the Peace Center, golf courses, a skeet-shooting range and, wrapping up, Court Street for a block party downtown.

From 500 to 600 hotel rooms have been booked for visitors from across the country, Europe and Latin America.

Mike Baur, CEO and a founder, said the conference mixes business and pleasure, scansource continued on page 16

Greg Beckner / Staff

ScanSource celebrates 20 years of growth

Josef Kerscher, president of BMW Manufacturing in Spartanburg, is the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce Business Leader of the Year.

“There is no doubt about BMW’s enormous economic impact on South Carolina,” said Otis Rawl, president and CEO of the chamber.

“Josef Kerscher has also greatly impacted the Palmetto State, working to make South Carolina more competitive for manufacturing and all business.”

Kerscher joined BMW in 1979 at the automaker’s plant in Landshut, Germany. After holding high management positions at BMW’s Munich plant, he was named president of the automaker’s South Carolina subsidiary in 2007.

Kerscher will be honored at the chamber’s 33rd annual summit, “The Stars of Business,” on Nov. 8 at Wild Dunes on the Isle of Palms.

Contact Dick Hughes at dhughes@ thespartanburgjournal.com.

ScanSource Inc. CEO Mike Baur talks about the worldwide company’s Latin American operation.

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journal business Scansource continued from page 15

first seven months, the fledging company turned profitable and ended its first fiscal year with earnings of $352,000 on sales of $16.1 million. In 1994, ScanSource went public, raising $4.6 million and setting off a period of 12 quarters in which sales grew at an annual compound rate of 80 percent and operating income 92 percent, according to company history.

There were bumps in those early days, Baur recalled. In the beginning, Gates/FA Distributing was a partner, providing equipment, warehousing, accounting and IT services “so we could concentrate on sales, marketing and technical support.”

But in that first year, Gates was sold to Arrow Electronics, which was a competitor in bar coding. ScanSource bought out Gates’ interest and linked up with another company, which turned out to be “terrible,” and then a third, more satisfactory one.

“We actually changed our IT system and warehouse three times in the first four years while we were growing 80 percent,” Baur said. “Those were some interesting times. It definitely was scary.”

ScanSource expanded bar coding to the European market 10 years ago and added communication systems through an acquisition in 2009. It broke into the Latin American market in 2001 and steadily expanded throughout the region with offices in Miami and Mexico City. Last year, the company bought Brazil’s dominant bar code/ POS provider, giving it a foothold in South America’s fastest growing economy.

If Bauer is disappointed with performance anywhere, it is in Europe, where it is has not been able to expand its communication business beyond the United Kingdom and Ger-

16 SPARTANBURG Journal | SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

Greg Beckner / Staff

introduces customers and vendors to employees in Greenville and showcases its host city and the Upstate.

And it’s also a birthday party celebrating ScanSource’s phenomenal growth from an idea in December 1992: to bring bar coding to a wider retail world as a distributor of equipment through a vast network of sales agents – the first to do so.

Bauer, Steve Owings, former CEO and now director, Greg Dixon, chief technology officer, and Leah Gangloff, Janet Rollins and Shari Huffman were ScanSource’s only employees at that time. All six remain.

The concept for the business grew out of the experience of Baur and Owings at Gates/FA Distributing Co. in Greenville, where Owings was CEO. “Gates was in the lowermargin computer commodity business, and we wanted to get into something with more of a niche and with a higher margin, higher value, and that’s why we started ScanSource,” Baur told the Journal.

They identified “three, four or five technologies that were under-distributed,” picking bar coding systems for automated checkout, communications systems for business and security systems.

They decided communications and security would come later. Bar coding was a more opportune place to start. Since a pack of Wrigley’s Juicy Fruit had been scanned at a checkout counter in 1974, bar code scanning had become a $2.5-billion market with major retailers served by cash register and computer makers.

ScanSource’s opening was as a middleman distributor between manufacturers of equipment and independent marketers to end-users in a deeper and broader retail market.

After losing $243,000 in its

ScanSource Inc. CEO Mike Baur has been with the company since its inception.

many and where fading Euro Zone economies have slowed business. ScanSource has yet to extend security offerings to Europe.

What really surprised Baur and Owings in the first decade was how fast and how big its U.S. bar code business would grow. To keep pace, the company relocated, expanded and added new automation to its warehousing in 2008.

It moved its distribution center from Memphis, Tenn., to a new 600,000-square-foot facility across the border in Mississippi. It employs 175 there.

Around that time, it also expanded its corporate offices, buying the building next door and an adjoining 10 acres on Logue Court off Pelham Road to have room

for a third building if needed.

“We had decided long-term that we wanted to stay in this area,” Baur said.

“A lot of Greenville developers would love us to be downtown,” he said, adding that ease of access to GSP International Airport and to downtown via Interstate 85 make its location off Pelham more convenient.

Still a work in progress is a new computer system that was to replace its antiquated system this year but has been delayed until 2013 and is expected to exceed its top estimated price of $38 million.

“That’s the brains of our business,” said Baur. “If we don’t have a good computer system, we are out of business.

Our business is high-transaction, high-volume. We did $3

billion last year and the average order was $2,300.”

With the traditional bar code/POS market peaking, ScanSource knows it must become more efficient and competitive and prepare for the next technology wave of POS systems.

“The market has matured to about $6 billion in the last 20 years, and today it is about 60 percent of our $3 billion, so we have a pretty good chunk of the worldwide market,” said Baur. “Our market share has gotten us to where I’ve got to steal it from somebody else.”

One of the features of the conference will be a presentation by Dixon, the CTO, on how “the tablet and smartphones are changing everything dramatically” and how ScanSource intends to stay ahead of those developments.

“The whole mobile thing is a huge explosion for us,” Baur said. “We want to educate our customers on what that means and how they prosper in that world. Our job is to help educate, identify and use change.

That’s what we are good at.”

For example, he said, the day is coming when consumer checkout will be on a tablet at the counter, and ScanSource will “sell the accessories around a device like this to help fit it into a regular retail environment.”

Another mission of the Greenville conference is to push sales synergies between bar coding/ point-of-sale, communication and security divisions.

In the past, each division held separate marketing conferences. Baur thinks having everyone together can bring “synergy between those different business units from a customer perspective.”

Right now, “there are not a lot of shared customers.”

Contact Dick Hughes at dhughes@ thespartanburgjournal.com.

journal business

The fine print by dick hughes

Med School Branches Out

The Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM), which opened a branch campus last year in Spartanburg, plans to open its third campus in the Auburn Research Park in Auburn, Ala. The first class of 150 students is expected the fall of 2015, VCOM said.

The college, which has its main campus in Blacksburg, Va., said the new school is needed to help address a shortage of general practitioners, family doctors and pediatricians in rural areas of Alabama.

VCOM said “similar conditions” led to creation of the Spartanburg medical school, which recently matriculated its second class.

“Our goals for a new branch campus are to provide state-of-the-art education and research, and train students to practice medicine in areas with the most need,” said VCOM Chairman John Rocovich.

Feds Back University Job Center

The U.S. Commerce Department has awarded Clemson University $2 million to help build a new graduate center in North Charleston.

The grant will be used for the Clemson University Restoration Institute being planned to support students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Acting Commerce Secretary Rebecca Blank said the investment is an example of the Obama administration’s commitment to help South Carolina create a skilled and educated workforce for good-paying jobs.

The Economic Development Administration grant will support North Charleston’s wind energy project that is being funded by stimulus money under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, said U.S. Rep. James Clyburn.

Clemson estimates the $2 million grant will create 110 new jobs and attract $2.9 million in private investment.

Architect Steps Out

Greenville has a new architectural firm. Ron Geyer, who had been in the ministry and cultural studio of Craig Gaulden Davis, has started Good City Architects. Geyer is a member of the religion, art and architecture advisory committee of the American Institute of Architects. Visit his website at goodcityarch.com.

Europe’s a Drag on State

South Carolina “could be in for a substantial slowdown in the months ahead,” according to TD Economics’ monthly regional checkup.

The economists said the Philadelphia Federal Reserve’s key leading index of economic health in South Carolina has been negative for the last three months.

“Corroborating evidence from the Richmond Fed’s Carolinas Survey of Business Activity, released just last week, shows conditions have also deteriorated for the second straight month,” TD Economics said.

The economists said “some of the slowdown can be chalked up to the stalling manufacturing sector, which accounts for 16 percent of South Carolina’s economy.”

The decline in manufacturing is related across the nation to “a recessionary Europe and subpar growth in emerging markets,” the report said. The ill effects of the crisis in the Euro Zone are cutting into exports.

TD Economics also reported a “mixed bag” for South Carolina in housing appreciation: “The Upstate region around Greenville is seeing very strong price appreciation, and the coastal areas around Myrtle Beach and Charleston are also doing well. But prices are still down across the central part of the state, especially around the capital of Columbia.”

TD Economics is the economic research arm of TD Bank.

New Offices for Growth

The 14-year-old aeSolutions, a Greenville company that has been on a growth trajectory, last week consolidated its workforce from multiple locations into new offices on Commonwealth Drive.

The company said it invested “upwards of $2 million” and plans to add 40 new positions to its workforce in Greenville within the next 18 months. It now employs approximately 140.

Founded in 1998, aeSolutions supplies safety engineering and automation products, along with consultancy services, and has grown 100 percent in the last 24 months. The company’s 25,000 square feet of second-floor space was completely renovated and all furnishings are new and ergonomically correct, the company said.

Several rooms are equipped for teleconferencing.

“We want all of our people to feel they are connected, whether in Anchorage, the North Slope of Alaska, Houston, Johnson City, Baton Rouge or here in Greenville,” said Ken O’Malley, chief operating officer. The company’s fabrication shop remains in the Merovan Center on Woodruff Road.

Now, a Self-Service Dog Wash

EarthWise Pet Supply, a new Simpsonville shop offering natural food, supplies, grooming services and self-service dog washing, holds its grand opening Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The new pet store is located in the Publix Shopping Center at Five Forks.

Tim Tuck, co-owner with his wife Vickie, said representatives from natural food manufacturers would be at the grand opening “to answer questions and provide information regarding the benefits of providing your pet with proper nutrition.”

Saturday, September 29 Fluor Field, Greenville Race Hotline (864) 234-5035 Register at www.KomenSCMM.org SEPTEMBER 7, 2012 | SPARTANBURG Journal 17

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Residential construction in Upstate defies trends

By JENNIFER OLADIPO | contributor

Residential construction in the Upstate has grown rapidly in recent months, trending in the opposite direction of construction overall.

Compared to last year, Census Bureau data show that authorizations for private housing units have increased about 68 percent in Anderson, 37 percent in Spartanburg, and 28 percent in the Greenville-Mauldin-Easley statistical area. These numbers compare favorably to the 21.8 percent growth in the South and 29.5 percent growth nationally.

Much of the construction is multifamily housing that is slated for rentals. Real estate, planning and building professionals say the increase in rental properties has been fueled by an increase in demand for rental properties, including rental houses, as people seek alternatives to buying. Most of the projects are for upscale housing apartments, supplanting the trend toward condominiums that was evident prior to the recession.

In Greenville, about half a dozen apartment complexes of more than 150 units have been announced in recent months, located in the Laurens Road, Woodruff Road and downtown areas.

Residents began moving into the 44 units of downtown’s Riverwalk apartment complex this past spring. Grant Peacock, developer of the 100 East apartments downtown, recently announced plans to turn the foundation of a failed hotel project at the corner of McBee and Spring streets into additional luxury apartments.

Seabrook Marchant of Marchant Real Estate Companies said several other developers are looking to build apartments in Greenville, which means their research is showing a demand and potential for profits in the area.

Sherry Dull, senior planner with Spartanburg County, said Spartanburg County is experiencing a burst of residential building after a threeyear lull. “We’ve definitely seen it pick up, especially this last month. It seems like everyone’s coming out of the woodwork at once.”

She said her office is receiving

many proposals for subdivisions on infill lots where there is already access to roads and utilities. She said the vast majority of the building activity is occurring on lots that had been plotted as many as four years ago but remained stagnant, usually for financial reasons. Most of the activity is occurring in the Boiling Springs area and around the lakes, but it is spreading throughout the county, she said.

In Greenville, the uptick in building of single-family dwellings has been primarily in the area of contract homes, which are sold before the building starts, said Marchant. As banks remain unwilling to lend on speculative projects, those with ready buyers are much more likely to get the funds needed to build.

“I would think that in general, the overall market has certainly seen a turnaround in the last three to five months, particularly maybe compared to last year,” and is gradually swinging from a buyer’s to a seller’s market, he said.

The Upstate has escaped the worst of the residential construction slowdown that other parts of the country are still experiencing, Marchant said, but as tropical storm Isaac approached the Gulf Coast last week, he worried that resulting damage could raise fuel prices and negatively affect the building market.

He also echoed the common worry throughout the entire construction industry about “what’s going to happen in November.”

“I think that the country needs some sort of confidence builder, and I don’t think you’re going to get that if the current administration stays in office,” Marchant said.

The national construction industry data clearinghouse Reed Construction reported in July that the growth in residential construction is likely to slow down by the end of next year.

Construction spending is expected to increase 13.7 percent in 2012 and 11.8 percent in 2013, while starts are expected to increase 22.9 this year, and 15.1 percent in 2013.

Contact Jennifer Oladipo at joladipo@thespartanburgjournal.com.

Journal Sketchbook

‘Celebrities’ will guest star in SCCT’s ‘Sound of Music’

By Cindy Landrum | staff

In its 2012-2013 season-opening concert, the Spartanburg Philharmonic Orchestra will explore the connection between Britain and America.

Philharmonic explores British and American connection with music

By Cindy Landrum | staff

In its 2012-2013 season-opening concert, the Spartanburg Philharmonic Orchestra will explore the connection between Britain and America.

It’s a connection that SPO conductor Sarah Ioannides, who has been called one

of the leading young British/American conductors in the world, knows well.

Ioannides was raised in England and came to the United States on a Fulbright scholarship to study at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia. She also has a master’s in orchestral conducting from Juilliard.

She has a particular interest in the influence of American and British music and how they relate to each other.

That interest will show in the orchestra’s opener on Sept. 8 at 7 p.m. at Twichell Auditorium on the Converse College campus. symphony continued on page 20

Greenville Metropolitan Arts Council Executive Director Alan Ethridge had dreams of being the next Cary Grant.

Those dreams ended when he was 10 when he was cast as a mushroom in “Hansel and Gretel.”

Ethridge will return to the stage again later this month when he is the guest actor in the last show of the South Carolina Children’s Theatre’s run of “The Sound of Music.”

Opening night is Sept. 7.

The SCCT has tapped several local celebrities and community leaders to play the role of Frau or Herr Schweiger, the choir member who bows repeatedly to allow the von Trapp family to escape the Nazis toward the end of the classic musical.

Celebrities named so far are Ethridge; WSPA-TV news anchor Fred Cunningham; Upstate storyteller and philanthropist Betty Farr; emediagroup owner and cancer survivor Bill Bishop; radio personality Lizz Ryals; River Falls Spa owner and arts advocate Lauguest continued on page 20

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journal sketchbook Symphony continued from page 19

The orchestra will perform John Williams’ “Olympic Fanfare,” Edward Elgar’s “In the South (Alassio)” overture, Samuel Barber’s “Toccato Festiva” and William Britten’s “Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra.”

“Young Person’s Guide” was written especially for the younger listener and begins and ends with an overview of the whole orchestra, interspersed with demonstrations of the capabilities of each instrument.

Guest artist for the concert will be Brennan Szafron, the organist and choirmaster of the Episcopal Church of the Advent and an adjunct instructor in organ performance and college organist at Converse.

Szafron is a native of Saskatchewan, Canada, who has played across the United States.

Guest artist for the SPO’s opening concert will be Brennan Szafron, the organist and choirmaster of the Episcopal Church of the Advent and an adjunct instructor in organ performance and college organist at Converse.

“They’re all coming in pretty blind. All they have to do is show up; we’ll get them ready for the show and show them what to do.”

SCCT Executive Director Debbie Bell.

The Music Foundation of Spartanburg is promoting their “Big Red Ticket” program for this concert and the rest of the season. Through the program, each school-aged child in Spartanburg County can get a free ticket for one of the SPO’s Masterworks concerts.

“It is our mission to help the children of Spartanburg County be introduced to music at an early age, have them form an exciting impression of the live classical orchestra and build a cultural foundation in their hearts,” Ioannides said.

The Sept. 8 concert is one of the orchestra’s four Masterworks concerts for the new season.

The Masterworks II concert on Nov. 10 will feature African-American soloist Anthony McGill, the principal clarinet of the Metropolitan Opera. The First Presbyterian Choir, led by Holt Andrews, will also perform in a program that will feature music from Mozart, Rossini, Borodin, Schubert and Gershwin.

January 19th’s Masterworks III concert will feature Michael Ludwig on the violin. “Brahms with a Twist” will include the U.S. premiere of Andrea Tarrodi’s “Lucioles.” Brahms Violin Concerto and Symphony No. 2 will also be performed.

The final Masterworks concert will be held May 4.

The SPO will celebrate the 100th anniversary of Stravinsky’s “Rite of Spring.”

Wael Farouk will join the orchestra in the performance of Rachmaninoff “Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini.”

The SPO will also have a Valentine Jazz and Romance Pop concert on Feb. 14.

The concert will feature Jens Lindemann on trumpet. Lindemann was recently named “International Brass Personality of the Year.” The program will include an Ellington medley, Gilliland’s “Dreaming of the Masters,” a selection

guest continued from page 19

ren Skelton; Megan Heidlberg, a host of the “Your Carolina” television show; and Fox Carolina news anchor Diana Watson.

“Over the years, we have found there are so many frustrated actors in town,” said SCCT Executive Director Debbie Bell.

Having guest actors is nothing new to the SCCT, although the theater hasn’t done it since 2004, when lo-

20 SPARTANBURG Journal | SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

SPO conductor Sarah Ioannides has been called one of the leading young British/American conductors in the world.

of music from “Porgy & Bess” and other jazz orchestral numbers.

In addition to the SPO Masterworks concerts, the Music Foundation of Spartanburg sponsors “Music Sandwiched In,” a concert series held at the Spartanburg County Library.

“Music Sandwiched In” is held in the Barrett Community Room at the Spartanburg County Public Library Headquarters on select Wednesdays from 12:15 to 1 p.m. The series usually starts in mid-August and runs through June.

Past performances have included the Spartanburg Little Theatre, Converse Opera, guest artists with the orchestra, local jazz and an oompah band.

The next “Music Sandwiched In” is Sept.

cal clergy members of various denominations played the priest in “Cinderella.”

The theater also had various local public officials and celebrities play Judge Brandeis in the 2002 production of “Annie,” including Greenville Mayor Knox White.

The guest role is attractive because there’s no rehearsal, Bell said.

“They’re all coming in pretty blind,” she said. “All they have to do is show up; we’ll get

12, when the Gregg Akkerman Duo will perform “Swinging Songs of Romance.”

A limited number of box lunches will be available, or patrons can bring their own sandwiches.

Contact Cindy Landrum at clandrum@thespartanburgjournal.com.

So you know:

What: “Heroes & Legends, Part II” Who: Spartanburg Philharmonic Orchestra When: Sept. 8, 7 p.m.

Where: Converse College’s Twichell Auditorium Tickets: $10-$35 Information: www.spartanburgphilharmonic. org or 864-596-9725

them ready for the show and show them what to do.”

Unlike Ethridge, Farr is no stranger to performing.

She had a role in “Babes in Toyland,” the SCCT’s first play at the Gunter Theatre. She is also a local storyteller who performs at libraries and other facilities in Greenville.

“It’s not a big part, but ‘Sound of Music’ is my all-time favorite musical,” said Farr, who will perform at the 5:30 p.m. show on Sept. 9. “I never tire of watching

it. I think you can’t help but feeling happy and humming songs after you watch it.”

Bell said the SCCT didn’t want to limit the guest role to just females, so they asked men and women, young and older.

The theater is offering specially priced tickets for the 5:30 p.m. show on Sept. 9. All tickets for that show are $16.

Contact Cindy Landrum at clandrum@ thespartanburgjournal.com.

journal sketchbook

our schools

AQUOS BOARD

activities, awards and accomplishments

It’s not just a display, it’s your business.

The First Tee of Spartanburg recently announced a National School Program (NSP) affiliation with E. P. Todd School. Effective fall 2012, students will be taught The First Tee golf and life skills as part of their physical education instruction during school hours. The curriculum promotes character and wellness education through the game of golf. One of over 4,800 schools nationwide, including 13 Spartanburg County schools, to be certified through The First Tee, E. P. Todd School is sponsored by BB&T. For information on school or student sponsorships and programming offerings, visit www.thefirstteespartanburg.org.

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The Spartanburg Community College (SCC) Cherokee County Campus (CCC) is hosting an information session about scholarship opportunities for veterans who have lived in Cherokee County for at least one year and plan to enroll in one of SCC’s industrial and engineering technology programs. These veterans may be eligible for Cherokee County K-14 Initiative scholarship funds that will help cover the full cost of tuition. Interested veterans should attend the information session at SCC’s Cherokee County Campus on Tuesday, Sept. 18, 5:30-7:30 p.m., in the L. Hoke Parris Business Training Center. Refreshments will be provided. For more information, call 864-206-2700.

Submit entries to: Spartanburg Journal, Our Schools, 148 River Street, Ste. 120, Greenville, SC 29601 or e-mail: spartanburgcommunity@thespartanburgjournal.com

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Students in Spartanburg Community College’s Associate in Arts with Business Electives program can now continue their education and earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from The Citadel.

This articulation agreement, the first SCC has formed with The Citadel, provides students another opportunity to complete a bachelor’s degree through SCC’s University Transfer Program. Students who enroll in SCC’s University Transfer Program are partnered with an advisor who ensures that the student takes the required coursework for acceptance into The Citadel’s Evening Undergraduate Studies Program. Students also have to maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. After earning the associate of arts degree, which takes approximately two years, students seamlessly transfer to The Citadel where they can complete a bachelor’s degree through online or distance learning, or weekend or evening classes in a civilian environment in Charleston. For more information, visit www.sccsc.edu/transfer or call 864-592-4600.

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JOURNAL SKETCHBOOK

SCENE. HERE.

THE WEEK IN THE LOCAL ARTS WORLD

The Wild & Scenic Film Festival on Tour, hosted by Upstate Forever, will be held Sept. 25 at the Chapman Cultural Center in Spartanburg, and Sept. 27 at The Children’s Museum in Greenville. Wild & Scenic will be showing 14 films that focus on the environmental concerns and celebrations of our planet. This year, festivalgoers will have the chance to win prizes from Sunrift Adventures. Wild & Scenic is a product of the South Yuba River Citizens League. The event is sponsored locally by Sunrift Adventures, The City of Spartanburg, the Woodruff-Roebuck Water District, the Startex Jackson Wellford Duncan Water District and the S.C. Rural Water Association. Doors for the event open at 6 p.m. and shows start at 6:30 p.m. Ticket prices are $10 for adults and $5 for children. Tickets can be purchased at Upstate Forever, Sunrift Adventures, Swamp Rabbit Café and Grocery and at www.upstateforever.org.

The Spartanburg Little Theatre presents Rodgers and Hammerstein’s beloved musical classic, “The King and I,” beginning Sept. 7. “The King and I” will show at Spartanburg Little Theatre in the Chapman Cultural Center on Sept. 7, 8, 14 and 15 at 8 p.m., and Sept. 9, 15 and 16 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $25 for adults, $24 for seniors and $17 for students. For more information, call 864-542-ARTS. The Judge’s Awards for the 2012 ArtCycle project

Fabric artist Jody Raines is exhibiting “Threads of Our Heritage,” a collection of landscape quilts and thread paintings, at the Chapman Cultural Center, Sept. 4-Oct. 7. The show depicts various well-known buildings and scenic views in and around Spartanburg, on quilted wall hangings and framed silk paintings. The exhibit is free for public viewing Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. on the second floor gallery of the Carlos Dupre Moseley Building. A public and free reception will be held Thursday, Sept. 20, 6-9 p.m. For more information about this exhibit, call 864-542-ARTS.

have been announced: Abe Duenas takes first place with “Boo’s Tree,” and Hoondirt wins second with “it.”

ArtCycle is a sculpture contest utilizing recycled bicycle parts whilst promoting regional artists. It is presented

by The City of Spartanburg, Partners for Active Living, Hub-Bub and the Artist’s Guild of Spartanburg. The public’s votes elect the People’s Choice Award and vot-

Faculty Jazz Concert

22 SPARTANBURG JOURNAL | SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

ing will close Sept. 14 at 5 p.m. To vote, head downtown to Morgan Square for the free audio tour. In addition, the 2012 ArtCycle pieces will be auctioned starting Sept.

6 and ending Sept. 13. To bid on a sculpture, visit www. artcyclespartanburg.org. Proceeds support the ArtCycle program.

The Spartanburg Little Theatre will hold auditions for “Moonlight and Magnolias” in the David Reid Theatre at the Chapman Cultural Center on Sept. 10 & 11, 7-9 p.m. Roles are available for three adult men and one adult woman in this hilarious, behind-the-scenes glimpse into the creation of one of the greatest films ever made, “Gone With the Wind.” Those auditioning should arrive at least 15 minutes early to fill out information sheets. Auditions will consist of readings from the script. For more information, call 864-542-ARTS. The Music Foundation of Spartanburg will present Music Sandwiched In: Swinging Songs of Romance at the Spartanburg County Public Library Headquarters on Wednesday, Sept. 12, 12:15-1 p.m. The Gregg Akkerman Duo will perform Swinging Songs of Romance at this free lunchtime concert. Brown-bag it or come early to purchase a box lunch from Panera. For more information, call 864-542-ARTS.

The evening’s music will include songs Oney has arranged and/or composed and will be selected from several of her critically-acclaimed touring shows including “Jazz Seasons,” “The Peggy Lee Project,” and her “Sweet Youth” CD release tour concert. Collaborative artists for this performance include fellow Commercial Music faculty including Dr. Gregg Akkerman on piano, Adam Knight on guitar, Shannon Hoover on bass and Tony Christopher on drums.

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2012

BUYER

LAWLER, KEEFER KIRK BROWN, PATRICIA M CALDWELL, ROBIN S GALLOWAY, WILLIAM BRENT CROCKER, RICHARD F BANKS CONSTRUCTION COMPANY BOND, ROBERT W RMM ENTERPRISES LLC S C PILLON HOMES INC DENNIS, MATTHEW C WILLIAMS II, HENRY C ODOM, NANCY R PHILLIPS, STEVEN J BRYANT, GEORGE SCOTT D R HORTON INC BOLING, NICHOLAS NIEMITALO INC WILSON, CRAIG THOMAS NVR INC BIGGERSTAFF, KASEY LUCERO, RANDY C HAWTHORNE, ADAM R FIELDS INVESTMENTS LLC MORAND, LUC ENCHANTED CONSTRUCTION LLC ROMAN, VICTOR J ASHMORE HOMES INC CLARK, WALTER E HSBC BANK USA CAMPBELL, GLENN A BILBRO, WILLIAM CHRISTOPHER LUCERO, RANDY C MORAND, LUC BUCKNER, KIMBERLY HALL, MARK A LYON, JENNINGS MICHAEL ADAMS HOMES AEC LLC MARK III PROPERTIES INC BLACKWELL JR, HAROLD C ARTHUR STATE BANK U S BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION BUSE, CLAUDIA J MILLER, MITCHELL D SCHWARTZBAUER, MICHELE ALISE PARKER CHAMPION CONSTRUCTION PUCETAS, CORY A JOHNSON, TERRY M BOLTON, DUSTIN HOUSING & URBAN DEVELOPMENT GAUTAM, VIKASH C WINESETT, JOHN JENNINGS JACKSON JR, DANIEL JETER, DANIEL G DOGAN, CHERYL B SMOUSE, SHELDON R BUFF, ROY J WILEY, CRYSTAL MCGAHEE, JEREMY R NOLEN, SANDRA L BOOZER, ARAKA J BELANGER, MALINDA D LOCKHART, LORI ELIZABETH CHRISTIE C EZELL LLC RAMIREZ, EDWARD BAUTISTA, GENARO FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE SILVEY, DEBBIE L U S BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION HAMILTON, MELISSA FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE MARK III PROPERTIES INC LEE, PAUL K WOLF, JUSTIN C FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE MARK III PROPERTIES INC BK RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION WILKINS, LOLETHA M SOUTH CAROLINA STATE HOUSING

24 S P A R T A N B U R G J O U R N A L | SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

ADDRESS

316 BENTON CT 459 N BERYL LN 375 ALLENDALE RD 306 E FRONTAGE RD LOT NUMBER: 134 523 SCENIC OAK DR 415 GRAZING RIDGE LN 506 HUNTING BOW LN 204 GLENDOWER LN 510 ELLERSLY CT 229 HENDERSON PLACE DR 300 LONDONBERRY DR 216 W CAMELTON DR 333 CAXTON FARM CT 401 ROSEHAVEN WAY 221 HENDERSON PLACE DR 5281 POGUE ST 407 DEER SPRING LN LOT NUMBER: 116-120 129 MABRY DR 641 FLINTROCK DR 491 HAMMETT RD 343 S IVESTOR CT 105 CAUTHEN CT 207 COLLINGWOOD LN 275 W DURHAM ST 401 HUNTERS TRL 4085 OL FURNACE RD 345 HONOR RD 116 HENDRIX DR 105 PATTERSON RD 6341 GREENFIELD DR 456 SARA BLACKMAN DR 510 BRIARHILL CT 641 S MORNINGWOOD LN LOT NUMBER: 407&414 118 TANGLEWYLDE DR LOT NUMBER: 389&390 323 WILMONT ST

Sterling Estates, Boiling Springs Sterling Estates is the perfect place to call home! This neighborhood offers newly constructed, beautiful homes in traditional, craftsman and cottage style architecture that feature Hardie plank with brick and stone construction and spacious backyards as well as access to community amenities. Sterling Estates is conveniently located off of Highway 9 with easy access to I-85, I-26 and

downtown Spartanburg and is close to the highly ranked District 2 schools as well as shopping and more! Sterling Estates has a wonderful community pool and clubhouse for you to enjoy.

You will look forward to entertaining friends and family at Sterling Estates!

NEIGHBORHOOD INFO 12 Month Average Home Price: $275,000 Sq Ft Range: 1900-3600 SF Amenities: Swimming Pool, Clubhouse, Recreation Area

Schools: Boiling Springs Elementary Boiling Springs Junior High Boiling Springs High School

Over 1,900 neighborhoods online at SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

journal sketchbook

the week in photos

look who’s in the journal this week Members of the Spartanburg chapter of the Roughnecks Motorcycle Club raised over $10,000 for the Spartanburg Regional Hospice House during the seventh annual Roughnecks Ride for Hospice.

Members of the Spartanburg chapter of the Roughnecks Motorcycle Club prepare to hit the road for the seventh annual Roughnecks Ride for Hospice.

The club has raised over $85,000 for Spartanburg Regional Hospice since 2006.

Members of the Wofford College Residence Life staff and the 2012 Orientation staff helped the 440 first-year students move in and get settled.

Motorcycles fill the parking lot of the Spartanburg Shrine Club, start of the seventh annual Roughnecks Ride for Hospice.

Helping to put furniture together in a Wofford College residence hall was part of the duties of the Residence Life staff members.

First-year students’ belongings get handed out.

UpstateFoodie.com Feed Your Inner Food Enthusiast

Sudoku puzzle: page 26

Crossword puzzle: page 26

SEPTEMBER 7, 2012 | SPARTANBURG Journal 25

journal sketchbook

figure. this. out.

Fashion on the TOWN is a free, public event

Going Daffy

By Marti Duguay-Carpenter

promoting local shopping, dining, and fashion! Rally your friends for this huge event featuring more than 50 local businesses!

g n i m o c To

participate,

pick-up

a

Fashion on the TOWN passport at any participating sponsor location beginning October 1. Use your passport (filled with exclusive coupons!) to guide you through the crawl on October 4 & 5. As you collect stamps, you will be qualified for a chance to win a ton of great prizes including a grand prize of two round-trip tickets, two nights in a luxury hotel, and $500 spending money for you and a guest to New York City!

For live updates, information, and all things Fashion on the TOWN be sure to !

26 SPARTANBURG Journal | SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

Across 1 Bon mot 5 Supplies with gear 11 Spa sounds 14 Class without struggle 19 Ticklish Muppet 20 Gopher’s route 21 Fire 22 The sun, for one 23 Quite somber Independence Day? 26 Garden hose gasket 27 Was perfectly tailored 28 Senators’ holdings 30 Cornerstone word 31 Held title to 32 Expandable waistline, say?

35 Golf gimme 38 Corner 39 Bart Simpson’s grampa 40 Common blood type, briefly 41 Set up for a fall 44 Cape Cod feature 47 Dietary supp. watchdog 50 Car registration datum 51 “Return of the Jedi” dancer 52 Like always 54 Sooner than, to a bard 55 Ghost from outer space?

59 Lean

60 Fence-sit 62 Conserve, in a way 63 Short hops 65 They’re often full of hot air 66 Stick (on) 67 Bubbly mixer 68 Diminished 70 Soda bottle size 71 Chat with colleagues 74 Award coveted on “Mad Men” 75 Big bag of wind?

77 Penn of “Harold & Kumar” films 78 Yellowstone feature 81 Deal 82 Polynesian pendant 83 Country W. of Somalia 84 Posh 85 Rubbernecked 87 Break __: take the lead 88 RNC’s group 89 Navy mascot 90 Else 91 Jet bridge?

97 Part of an act 100 “Say it isn’t so!”

101 They may be tall 102 Tick off 106 Light bulb units 108 The truth about Zeus, Apollo, etc.?

111 “Un Ballo in Maschera” aria 112 Capable, facetiously

113 Incapably 114 Had too much 115 Scout’s mission 116 Uneffusive 117 Blood pressure elevator 118 Cold War news service Down 1 Comedian Foxworthy 2 Cliff-dwelling race in a 2002 film 3 Blue stuff 4 Storied surprise winner 5 Patriot Allen 6 Bartlett specialty 7 In need of nourishment, most likely 8 “Picnic” playwright 9 A pop 10 ‘70s radical gp. with a seven-headed cobra symbol 11 “__ From the Bridge”: Miller 12 Try to whack 13 Rocker Patty married to John McEnroe 14 It may be inflated 15 Equally unlikely 16 Undercover op 17 “Live at the Acropolis” musician 18 Incandescent bulb gas 24 Word with mining or steel 25 Cognac bottle letters

29 Inconsequential 32 Test for M.A. hopefuls 33 “Totally awesome!”

34 Help with a heist 35 Brings to heel 36 Needing assembly 37 Texas Hold’em player’s confidence?

Hard

46 Ebenezer’s epithet 47 Parisian pals?

48 Parking lot misfortune 49 Does sum work 53 Tweezers holders 55 Together, to Toscanini 56 Rage 57 Trip odometer button 58 Rogers rival 61 Some singers 63 Shocked 64 Egyptian royal cross 66 One of five in a kids’ rhyme 67 Tannish gray 68 Snow shoveling aftermath, maybe 69 Bad thing on a record 70 Austrian city with a torte named after it 71 This puzzle’s honoree, for one 72 Jack of “The Great Dictator” 73 Hard worker 75 Cambridge sch.

76 Exam for future docs 79 Poke 80 Hit the ball hard 82 Ore-Ida item 85 Army sack?

86 Bowl cheer 88 Capri attraction 89 Deep cut 90 Most fit to serve 91 Leafy alcove 92 ORD, on an airline ticket 93 Bit of high jinks 94 Handles 95 Mayan calendar symbol, e.g.

96 Trivial 97 Vibrating night sound 98 Biceps exercises 99 Ed Asner septet 38 Counterfeiter-catch- 102 Get an __ effort 103 1871 Cairo premiere ing agt.

104 Sandal revelations 41 Like most mailed 105 Cuts off letters 107 Icarus’s undoing 42 Agitates 109 Tape player spec.

43 On the calmer side 110 “Just kidding!”

44 Pretense 45 Pay to play Crossword answers: page 25

Sudoku answers: page 25

g n i m co

journal sketchbook

60 & Beyond with peggy henderson

Aqua Zumba, anyone?

If anyone had told me a year ago that I would be making waves to the Latino steps of the salsa, tango, flamenco – and yes, belly dancing – in a (God forbid) swimsuit at the YMCA, I would have firmly replied, “In your dreams.”

It’s not that I don’t adore exercise, but wearing an old-lady swimsuit and performing foreign dance steps? At the very thought, my over-inflated ego screamed, “Play it safe. Why bother to take a chance and make a fool of yourself, again?”

It’s true, as the years spin by faster than Michael Phelps, we seniors tend to shy away from the unknown. It’s less stressful to rest in the minuscule details of our daily routines. I admit I do value my comfort zones.

Nevertheless, I bought my much-advertised Miracle Swimsuit that promised a smoother, trimmer appearance. I rented my locker with a combination lock that immediately tracked me back to the angst of high school algebra combinations. Oh, how our wily egos can shipwreck our opportunities for just plain ol’ fun.

Trust me. Dancing with a giddy group of ladies of all sizes and shapes takes away all inhibitions. No matter how you feel easing into the cool water, you will step out of the water energized for the rest of the day.

The Zumba is a Colombian dance fitness program created by dancer and choreographer Alberto “Beto” Perez. Perez was forced to improvise one day in 1986, when he forgot his aerobics music for an exercise class. Using salsa and meringue rhythms, he combined the two, eventually produced a demo reel, and the rest is history. Presently there are 12 million people taking Zumba classes in over 110,000 locations across more than 126 countries.

Aqua Zumba classes are an hour long and are taught by qualified, young, hard-body instructors. Once the music fills the humid arena, ready or not, the party begins. The instructor dances front and center on the pool deck and, starting with a brisk warm-up, conducts the group into raunchy, racy paces and, finally, a much-needed cool down.

What I like about the swimming pool venue is I can push myself as much or little as I’m willing to challenge the water’s weighty resistance. Like other moderate, low-impact physical activities, the benefits are similar, but dancing isn’t boring. It’s no secret that music unlocks

the parts of the brain that contain our pleasure hormones.

The good news is active participation for a shared purpose can add years to one’s life. For example, it can be bowling, shuffleboard or maybe miniature golf.

Any competitive game that excludes sitting down. The bonus, besides increased longevity, is a promise of improved emotional health and sharper cognitive skills.

Surely even a plump, pessimistic goose or gander would find it hard to resist a few more years of paddling around a lake.

The known risk of social isolation – meaning little interaction during a week other than with a family member, church service or medical appointment – is like Fido standing at the door waiting for his master to come home. This sedentary lifestyle creates an opportunity for debilitating depression.

In addition, it’s a fact that due to limited exercise, issues of cardiovascular complications, osteoporosis and increased risk for rheumatoid arthritis rate high on the at-risk chart. Even more scary, medical experts report our immune system and brain alertness weaken due to little stimulation.

What a bummer. More reason to get out of the house and put on our exercise/dancing shoes. You don’t have to go alone; take a friend. Bribe them with a promised lunch.

Much has been written about living the last chapters of one’s life with grace, wit and gratitude to the point of ad nauseam. I’m still fighting, and will probably continue to fight, my competitive ego to the last day of what I call my Finishing School for seniors. Even if I’m not dancing the correct dance movements, no one gives a cha-cha-cha that I’m moving right when I should be facing left. No matter.

Tomorrow’s another day. For dancing.

Peggy Henderson is a 60 & Beyond former freelance writer turned newspaper columnist.

Besides appearing in the Spartanburg and Greenville Journals, her column is syndicated with Senior Wire News Services. In addition, she’s a staff writer for the website www.Go60.us.

Contact her at peg4745@aol.com.

Get ready . ready.

to ride…

P R E S E N T E D

B Y

to shop…

JB Lacher Jewelers A D D ITION A L

A Public Affair PR Augusta Twenty

PA RT I C I PAT I N G

Labels Designer Consignments

Capello Salon

Linda McDougald Design

Carolina Ballet Theatre

Liquid Catering

cb Events

Macy’s

Charleston Cooks!

Millie Lewis Models & Talent

Chocolate Moose cocobella boutique Coplon’s Custard Boutique Diana Classic Children Emporium Even a Sparrow Glow on Main Green Eyed Girls Boutique Ivy Salon Kudzu

TOWN

B US I N ES S ES

Reedy River Dentistry Roots Saige Consignment Boutique Sedran Furs skinkare Stella and Dot by Lindsay Oehmen

Monkee’s of the Westend

Studio.7

MUSE Shoe Studio

The Clothing Warehouse

Palmetto Olive Oil Co. Petals boutique Pink Azalea

The Pink Monogram The White Iris Vann & Liv

Pink Bee

Vino & van Gogh

Plaza Suite

o t t Visi win!

WISH boutique

Postcard from Paris Home | Downtown & The Shops at Greenridge

For information, contact Events & Sponsorships Manager – Kate Banner, fashion@towngreenville.com

SEPTEMBER 7, 2012 | SPARTANBURG Journal 27

SEMI-ANNUAL

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