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ISSUE NUMBER XL | FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015

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Simpsonville City Council Meeting: March 10, 2015 A specially called Finance committee meeting was held at 6pm, prior to the regular meeting.

permanent space and hopes to have a final location in next month.

Meeting was called to order. Present were Elizabeth Braswell and Geneva Lawrence. Councilman George Curtis was unable to attend.

Councilman Matthew Gooch complimented the progress at College Park. He also asked David Holmes, City Attorney, to reiterate the rules on Council/Committee meetings referencing the Opinion Letter from the State Attorney General stating the unannounced meeting last fall at the Simpsonville Arts Building constituted a quorum and violated the Freedom of Information Act. (Note: Councilmen Matthew Gooch and George Curtis were not informed of the meeting). Mr. Holmes stated, “The governing statue is Freedom of Information Act 30-4-10. It requires that if there is a meeting of a public body, it must be announced 24 hours in advance. A public body not only includes the City Council but it also includes any committee meetings...”. (mp3 on City website has full statement.)

Motion made to present to full Council the item to transfer $5,000 from Special Revenue Fund (Amphitheater) to Parks and Recreation Budget for the one-time Interchange Landscape Maintenance. Meeting adjourned. The regular business meeting began at 6:30pm. Present were Council Persons Matthew Gooch, Taylor Graham, Geneva Lawrence, Elizabeth Braswell, and Sylvia Lockaby. Not in attendance was Councilman George Curtis. Approval of February 10, 2015 Council Meeting Minutes. Pledge of Allegiance led by Boy Scout Troop 100. Citizen Comments: (For a Citizen to speak at this time on the Agenda, a Citizen must sign up by Wednesday at noon prior to the Council Meetings. The Agenda is not published to the public until Friday afternoon prior to Tuesday meetings.) Roxie Kincannon spoke in support of giving Mayor Pro Tem Geneva Lawrence the salary of Mayor after she did a Google research. Mrs. Kincannon offered her research to Council. Chamber of Commerce Update: Allison McGarity gave the update informing that the Chamber Annual Banquet will be held on April 23rd at Sapphire Creek. After review of the Harvest Moon Festival, Chamber decided it was not a sustainable event financially. Chamber will instead focus on smaller events to promote businesses and the community. The Chamber is looking for

Council Comments:

Mr. Holmes further stated the Opinion Letter confirmed information he has provided Council in the past.

Motion made and passed by unanimous vote. First Reading of Major Change to the Cottages at Harrison Bridge Road, SP-2015-02. Passed by unanimous vote. Discussion of Budget Workshop dates. Dates to be announced. Discussion of Rental Rates for Arts Center. Rates had been prepared by Parks and Recreation. Mayor Pro Tem ask that rates be suspended for Police Department and Fire Department training. Braswell made the motion to adopt the Rental Rates and Lockaby seconded and rates were adopted by Council vote. Interchange maintenance at I-385 and Fairview Road and I-385 and West Georgia Road. Motion made to transfer $5,000 from Amphitheater budget to Parks and Recreation budget for this one-time cleanup. Council members Lawrence, Lockaby, Braswell and Graham voting yes and Councilman Gooch voting no.

Councilwoman Sylvia Lockaby had no comments.

Discussion by Mayor Pro Tem Lawrence asking for her salary to be increased stating she “is tired of being jerked around”. Lockaby made the motion to increase the Mayor Pro Tem salary to the Mayor’s salary. No second to Lockaby’s motion. Lawrence argued the point that this should not be a Council issues but a Human Resource issue. Lawrence asked for a second to Lockaby’s motion again and again no second. Motion died.

Mayor Pro Tem Geneva Lawrence spoke in opposition of the proposed Business License bill.

Lawrence continued the discussion. Lockaby made a motion to discuss. No second and motion died.

Second Reading of Ordinance 2015-01, Revision to Chapter 20, Fire Ordinance, (Articles I & II) - Update to Ordinance. Motion made and passed by unanimous vote.

Lawrence then asked City Attorney David Holmes for his opinion. Mr. Holmes states the Mayor’s position has not been vacated and reiterated his advice that the Mayor Pro Tem’s salary could not be raised to the Mayor’s salary.

Councilman Taylor Graham thanked Parks and Recreation staff for their work on the Band Boosters Hillcrest High School Marching Band banquet. Councilman Graham also gave an update on the Business License proposed bill being discussed in Columbia. Councilwoman Elizabeth Braswell had no comments.

Second Reading of Ordinance AXZ-2013-01, Annexation of Brier Ridge on West Georgia Road.

Councilwoman Braswell spoke on whether Council Comments added “value”

Beth Kelley Fann

to the meetings. Braswell stated, “I ask that Madam Pro Tem remove Council Comments from our Business Meetings and that all Chairs remove them from committee meetings.”

in communication between council members now.

Lawrence agreed that Council Comments should be removed from committee meetings. Lawrence stated, “I frankly don’t even see the need for Citizen Comments in Committees....”.

Mayor Pro Tem Lawrence stated she sees nothing wrong with the Standing Committee meetings. She voiced her frustration of the nonacceptance of Standing Committees by some. She also stated her disagreement with the State Attorney General Opinion Letter. Lawrence said, “Other cities do not run around and hide and not get caught in the same room with other people.”

Gooch stated he would continue Citizen and Council comments at committee meetings he chaired. Graham also supports Council and Citizen comments and thinks they are important to keep citizens informed and council members informed. Lockaby stated, “I don’t care for comments in the committees”. Lengthy discussion of Standing Committee problems. Councilman Graham would like to go back to the Workshop meetings stating there is hindrance

Councilman Gooch also would like to go back to the Workshop meeting format making the meetings more citizen friendly.

Gooch pointed out that even though Lawrence disagreed with the State Attorney General opinion, City of Simpsonville Ordinance also prohibits unannounced committee meetings. Meeting was adjourned. (The audio of meeting can be heard on mp3 on www. simpsonville.com)

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Fountain Inn Fire Department to Host First Annual Golf Tournament Beth Kelley Fann WHEN: March 25, 2015

Local Fire Department Receives Salvage Vehicle from State Farm Donated Vehicle to Be Used to Test Jaws of Life Life-Saving Device Press Release South Carolina (March 5, 2015) — The Fountain Inn Fire Department was pleased to receive a donated salvage vehicle from the state’s largest insurance company. The donated car from State Farm will be used in training exercises by the department to better serve the public. Specifically the car will be used in extrication exercises to better use the Jaws of Life tool to remove passengers from a heavily damaged vehicle. Assistant Fire Chief Russell Alexander said “The Fountain Inn

Fire Department was pleased to receive a donated vehicle from State Farm to use in the training of Auto Extrication. With the donation, FIFD will train on the use of a new Hurst tool. This vehicle will allow approximately twenty fire fighters to train on old and new techniques of extrication.” “We are excited to be involved with this donation that helps to promote public safety through training that will save lives” said local State Farm Agent Liz Berry.

WHERE: Carolina Springs Golf Course 1680 Scuffletown Rd. Fountain Inn, SC 29644 TIMES: Registration 10-12 Lunch-10-12 Tee Off-Noon Dinner & Awards- 4-6

All profits will be funding two different Children’s Camps. TO SIGN UP, EMAIL: Russell.alexander@fountaininn. org -orchad.beam@fountaininn.org The Fountain Inn Fire Department is located at 200 North Main St., Fountain Inn, SC 29644

Captain’s choice COST: $200.00 per team (4 man team’s, $50 a person) Door prizes as well as different competition prizes throughout the course From fountaininn. org: We are excited to announce the first annual FIFD Golf Tournament! Stop, Drop, &Tee Off! It will be March 25th at Carolina Springs in Fountain Inn, SC. $200.00 a team (4 man team)

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Simpsonville Area Chamber of Commerce Announces End to Upstate Harvest Moon Festival

On Second Thought Op-Ed submitted by Simpsonville Councilman Matthew Gooch Tuesday night’s council meeting was confusing. One of the issues addressed in that meeting was whether or not standard rental rates should be charged for using the building. The City currently rents various facilities throughout our parks and buildings for anyone that wishes to use them. The exception has been The Arts Center.

Press Release Simpsonville, SC The Simpsonville Area Chamber of Commerce announces that the 2014 Upstate Harvest Moon Festival will be the last. Chamber staff and Board members met recently to review the event’s performance, and have decided to pursue other events and projects instead. Increased expenses and the event’s strain on organizational resources are the primary reason for canceling the event. Chamber Board members and staff remain committed to utilizing Chamber resources on projects that will support and promote local businesses, community improvements, and city pride. Other events which support this mission will be announced in the coming months. Messages will be sent

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to past sponsors, vendors, and participants. We appreciate the support of this event over the years, and wish to thank everyone who has played a part in it’s history. Please contact Allison McGarity with questions via email at amcgarity@ simpsonvillechamber.com or phone at (864) 963-3781.

A current tenant pays rent for use of the gymnasium. The space is utilized almost daily and the funds have gone towards building improvements. There are other users of the space, Simpsonville Arts Foundation (SAFI) as well as the Revolutionary War museum. SAFI has contributed in kind funds in the form of improvements and low cost concerts. The museum has functioned as a public service without support from the city. The vote on Tuesday established that anyone using the building must pay rent. The rates are in line with what the city charges for other venues and the idea sounded fair on the surface. After the meeting, however, second thoughts occurred to me. These thoughts were helped by not a small number of people asking about how it would change things. While standard rents are fair, several issues remain unresolved and the vote to charge rent complicates the questions surrounding The

Arts Center. For example, SAFI built the outdoor amphitheater, which sits next to City Park, using funds they contributed. Under the new policy they will have to pay to use the facility. This doesn’t seem evenhanded. Plain and simple, I made a mistake and should not have voted in favor of the proposal. A vote of ‘no’ may not have made a difference but it was the right thing to have done. There should have been a clear and concise solution that involved everyone impacted by the changes. That was not done. I apologize for my error in judgment and hope council will revisit this issue at our next meeting and have a better more equitable answer for all involved.

OPINIONS WELCOME. Please submit items for consideration to info@simpsonvillebanner.com or by mail to: The Simpsonville Banner 104 NE Main Street Simpsonville, SC 29681 The opinions and views printed in the “letters to the editor”, “op-eds”, “editorial”, or any columns or articles are solely the writers. We reserve the right to refuse publication.

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Meet Your Physician: Melanie Thomas The medical field is very demanding. “Practicing medicine requires giving a large percentage of yourself to your patients every day, from an intellectual, emotional and spiritual stand point,” said Melanie Thomas, M.D., radiation oncologist at Gibbs Cancer Center & Research Institute, where she serves as the Associate Center Director for Experimental Therapeutics. Dr. Thomas is motivated daily by her interactions with her patients. Through these relationships she is able to become an advocate for patients and their families during challenging times in their life’s journey. With a passion that is second to none, Dr. Thomas considers it an honor and privilege to work as a physician. Thomas’s interests extend past our countries borders. With a resume filled with international medical volunteer work and a passport filled with stamps to support it, Thomas has taken her oncology practice overseas to provide services to remote populations.

From Honduras to Bhutan, Thomas has contributed to accomplishing world-wide medical advancements and endeavors. Thomas works hard to achieve a philosophy that consists of working with highly intelligent, compassionate colleagues that provide patients with the best possible multidisciplinary care. Thomas received her medical degree from Boston University School of Medicine in Boston. She completed her internship and residency at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center at Harvard Medical School and completed her medical oncology fellowship training at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. She is a member of the International Society of Gastrointestinal Oncology, International Liver Cancer Association and European Society for Medical Oncology. Thomas is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, American Association for Cancer Research and the American Association for the Study of

Liver Disease. Her special interests include clinical research and GI malignancy, specifically liver, bile duct and gallbladder cancers. Thomas is board certified in internal medicine and medical oncology. Despite all Thomas has to offer, she strongly believes that what she offers pales in comparison to what she receives in caring for her patients. This humble perspective cultivates the caring environment that Thomas’s practice provides, which in return ensures an enjoyable patient experience. For more information visit www.GibbsCancerCenter. org/Thomas or to schedule an appointment call 1-855-DNA-GIBBS

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Big Events on the Way for Charter Amphitheatre Corey Barker

Spring is almost upon us; the temperatures are beginning to rise and people are starting to wake from their winter hibernation. The chill is gone and the air is rather balmy as Roger Dickson’s truck pulls into the parking lot of the Charter Spectrum Amphitheatre at Heritage Park. Roger has kindly agreed to speak with me about some of the events that his company TRZ Management has planned for the Amphitheatre. After being chosen last summer as the new management for the Amphitheatre, Roger and his team began to work on revamping the image of the event space. On his time so far working at the space Roger states, “It has been busy. Everyone is trying to find their new roles, and work with this new market. I have been meeting people in Simpsonville and they are all pleasant and receptive.” “Busy” might actually be an understatement, as Roger and TRZ Management have been working tirelessly to make sure the 2015 events calendar is one to remember. In fact, while I was talking to Roger, they were already getting the space ready for the Fair at

Heritage Park. The Fair at Heritage Park is perhaps the most ambitious undertaking that Roger has planned for this summer. The fair will be a ten day extravaganza and after listening to Roger speak on everything the fair will include, it is hard not to get excited. “People are going to come through the park, and all of the sudden they will feel like they are at Six Flags,” Roger can’t help but smile at the statement. Some of the events at the fair include: pig races, an exotic petting zoo, a sea lion show, a demolition derby, Lady Houdini, and Galaxy Girl. They are nowhere done planning as events are still being added. In addition to these events, the fair will also boast both paid and free shows. At this point the free shows include rising country star Austin Webb and The Voice season seven winner Craig Wayne Boyd. The paid concerts are John Fogerty and classic rock band Boston. As an added incentive, anyone who buys a ticket to either John Fogerty or Boston will receive free admission to the fair for that day. With everything that will be happening at this fair, it

is not surprising that it is the event Roger is most excited about. The Fair at Heritage Park isn’t the only event that the team at TRZ is working on. They are also in the process of setting up a series of concerts that will appear at the Amphitheatre throughout the summer. In addition to John Fogerty and Boston, Rob Zombie will put on a show at the Amphitheatre in June. While on this topic, I took the opportunity to ask Roger what exactly went into setting up a concert at a venue like this. The process itself isn’t as simple as one might think. One of the first things Roger tells me is, “It is a lot of leg work. Everything has to fall into place.” To expand on this, he tells me that a bid is sent to an artist for them to come to the venue. However, even if the artist accepts this bid, it is then up to the artist’s management to choose the date. To this end, one of the key things Roger and his team are working toward is a variety in the types of acts they bring to the Charter Spectrum Amphitheatre. “The artist has to be a good fit, but it is hard to tell what a good fit will be. We are aiming for variety.”

Roger mentioned trying to include acts from the genres of country, rock, classic rock, and Christian music. Roger is very interested in making the Amphitheatre a community space, and creating events that can be enjoyed by everyone. I also felt that it was important to answer some questions the public have posed on the Amphitheatre. The first one I asked about was the ticketing situation. Luckily, Roger was able to clarify. All ticketing will be done online until April 17th. After that date, the box office will be open every Friday from 10-5 for people to purchase their tickets. During the week of a scheduled show the office will be open daily. The reason for the confusion is that ticket companies were switched, to reduce any additional fees for eventgoers. My biggest feeling after leaving my meeting with Roger is that he is truly trying to bring the community together through the events he brings to the wonderful space at Heritage Park. I asked him what his dream event to bring to the park would be. He said while it would be nice, albeit difficult, to bring a huge

sold-out artist to the venue, it isn’t necessarily the best move. He wants to make everyone happy. “My dream would be to have a year of shows that everyone could enjoy.” I also asked him what his statement to the community would be about what he plans on doing with the Amphitheatre. He stated, “We are gonna have bumps, but it is how we deal with those bumps. The two main complaints we were getting were parking and restrooms. We fixed the parking, and we fixed the restrooms. At the end of the day we want the customer to have a fun experience. This is a statement year for us to show what we can do.” With the passion that Roger exudes for his work, it is safe to say it will be an exciting summer in Simpsonville. You can learn more about Roger and TRZ Management at their website trzmanagement.com. You can find out more about the Fair at Heritage Park at fairatheritagepark.com. You can also find out more about the shows, and purchase tickets at charterspectrum amphitheatre.com

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Simpsonville Officers Going Bald to Help Fight Childhood Cancer Beth Kelley Fann

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Officers with the Simpsonville Police Department have been raising funds for St. Baldricks, a program that engages donors to give with a fun twist - the fundraiser will shave their head for pledges. Chief Keith Grounsell, Deputy Chief Steve Moore and Cpl. Justin Chandler are the Simpsonville officers leading this effort. The three will “go bald” on Sunday, March 15 at Larkin’s on the River in Greenville. The event begins at 1pm. From Chief Grounsell:

Every dollar is carefully matched with promising medical trials, research, education and improving the quality of life for children and their families. For more on St. Baldricks, visit StBaldricks. org The Simpsonville Police Department is online at simpsonvillepd.com, or call 864.967.9536

To donate to the Simpsonville Police Department’s fundraiser, visit stbaldricks.org/teams/

“As part of our ongoing effort to give back to the community several officers have volunteered to shave their heads in order to assist in raising funds for child cancer research. Unfortunately, cancer is one disease that has affected just about every family across the nation in a negative light. It is even more tragic when it affects our children. We feel this is the least we can do to for such a wonderful cause. Our original goal was $1,000, but that was quickly met. To date we have raised $1,275. We would like to walk into the head-shaving event on Sunday with double this amount ($2,000). Anything you can do to help this cause would be appreciated.” St. Baldricks is a national organization dedicated to fighting childhood cancer.

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SIMPSONVILLE EVENTS MOTHER SON DATE NIGHT Friday, March 13, 2015 6:30pm 8:30pm Simpsonville Activity and Senior Center AN EVENING WITH MR. BOBBY JAMES Friday, March 13, 2015 7:00pm 8:00pm Simpsonville Museum of Revolutionary War History 110 Academy St Simpsonville, SC 29681 SIMPSONVILLE LIBRARY: TEEN SCRIBBLERS Saturday, March 14, 2015 12:00pm 1:30pm 626 Northeast Main Street Simpsonville, SC, 29681 HIGH SCHOOL MARCH ON HUNGER: DELVIN CHOICE Saturday, March 14, 2015 6:00pm 10:00pm Charter Ampitheatre LIVE MUSIC AT EXCHANGE CO. Saturday, March 14, 2015 6:30pm 8:00pm 110 S Main St Simpsonville, SC 29681 SIMPSONVILLE LIBRARY: BOUNCING BABIES Tuesday, March 17, 2015 Tuesday, March 24, 2015 10:00am 11:00am 626 Northeast Main Street Simpsonville, SC, 29681

SIMPSONVILLE LIBRARY: TODDLER TALES Tuesday, March 17, 2015 Tuesday, March 24, 2015 11:00am 11:30am 626 Northeast Main Street Simpsonville, SC, 29681 SIMPSONVILLE LIBRARY: MOTHER GOOSE IS ON THE LOOSE Wednesday, March 18, 2015 Wednesday, March 25, 2015 10:00am 12:00pm 626 Northeast Main Street Simpsonville, SC, 29681 SIMPSONVILLE ROTARY CLUB Wednesday, March 18, 2015 12:15pm 1:15pm Simpsonville Rotary Club

RUMMAGE SALE - FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Saturday, March 21, 2015 8:00am 1:00pm 510 E Curtis St Simpsonville, SC

EASTER PRODUCTION“REDEEMER!” AT FBCS Friday, March 27, 2015 6:30pm 7:30pm 3 Hedge St Simpsonville, SC 29681

ESTATE SALE TO BENEFIT CARMEN’S RESCUE Saturday, March 21, 2015 8:00am 4:00pm 121 Forest Park Dr Simpsonville, SC 29681

SIMPSONVILLE GARDEN CLUB PLANT SALE Saturday, March 28, 2015 8:00am 12:00pm Simpsonville City Park

SPORTSMAN’S DINNER AT FBCS Saturday, March 21, 2015 5:00pm 8:00pm 3 Hedge St Simpsonville, SC 29681

SIMPSONVILLE CITY COMMITTEE MEETINGS Tuesday, March 24, 2015 SIMPSONVILLE LIBRARY: STORY TIME 6:00pm 9:00pm Thursday, March 19, 2015 118 N.E. Main Street Simpsonville, SC Thursday, March 26, 2015 29681 10:00am 12:00pm 626 Northeast Main Street SIMPSONVILLE LIBRARY: BOOK Simpsonville, SC, 29681 DISCUSSION Thursday, March 26, 2015 SIMPSONVILLE LIBRARY: 1:00pm 2:00pm KINDERCRAFT 626 Northeast Main Street Thursday, March 19, 2015 Simpsonville, SC, 29681 3:30pm 4:30pm 626 Northeast Main Street ADVANCED TECHNIQUES CLASS Simpsonville, SC, 29681 AT PEACOCK COTTAGE Thursday, March 26, 2015 FURNITURE STENCILS AND STENCIL 6:30pm 7:30pm CREMES CLASS AT PEACOCK 212 Northeast Main Street COTTAGE Simpsonville, SC Thursday, March 19, 2015 6:30pm 7:30pm 212 Northeast Main Street Simpsonville, SC

“CRAFTY WAYS TO FIGHT HUNGER” EVENT Saturday, March 28, 2015 9:00am 4:00pm Westside Church SIMPSONVILLE LIBRARY: BEADED CHAIN NECKLACE Saturday, March 28, 2015 10:00am 11:00am 626 Northeast Main Street Simpsonville, SC, 29681 THE GREAT EGG VENTURE Saturday, March 28, 2015 10:00am 2:00pm Heritage Park “BECAUSE WE BELIEVE” AT CLEAR SPRING BAPTIST Sunday, March 29, 2015 6:00pm 7:00pm 301 Bethany Rd Simpsonville, SC 29681 SIMPSONVILLE ROTARY CLUB Wednesday, April 1, 2015 12:15pm 1:15pm Rotary Hall

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FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015

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The Greatest Job I Ever Had Mark Katarzynski I have had many jobs over the years. Not because I couldn’t hold one. Mainly, because I was always trying to better myself and my “station” in life. I have done almost every job a restaurant has to offer. From flipping burgers to waiting tables, from washing dishes to assistant manager (a glorified babysitter), to head manager (a glorified babysitter plus fifty extra dollars a week). I have swept floors and sold flooring. For ten months, I sold cars. Don’t judge me. For ten years, I’ve sold houses. On two different occasions, I sold wholesale flowers and floral supplies. I referred to these as the times I “petaled posies”, because I am secure in my manhood and I cannot pass up a good pun. I even spent a few years in the golf business. I did everything from mowing grass to selling advertising. So, when I tell you I have a little bit of knowledge on a lot of things, I’m not kidding. All that being said, nothing I ever got paid for, could have prepared me for the best job imaginable. I’m a dad! There are a lot of us out there doing this job, but I’m still a little amazed they let me. I have had NO training. Sure, I got to watch one of the masters do it for years. My dad is REALLY good at it. I have to be honest, though. For most of the years I “lived under his roof”, I thought he was full of it. It wasn’t until many years later, that I realized he had more on the ball than I gave him credit for. I would tell him today, but he would get a big head about it. 104 N.E. Main Street

A little over fourteen years ago, a 7 pound 10 ounce little boy, with a strong reference from his mother, agreed to let me be his dad. Genetics made me his father, but he let me become his dad. Do you know how I know being a dad changed me? Never once had I thought getting another person’s vomit on me would bother me so little. If anybody else had ever thrown up on me, I wouldn’t speak to them for weeks! My little boy rewinds his lunch onto my shoulder and my only thought was “Can I still wear this shirt to work”. Three plus years later, my daughters were born. No, that was not a typo. Daughters, with an “s”. Twin girls were born to my wife and me on 02-03-04 at 9:55 and 9:56 in the morning. I wanted her to hold out until 5:06 and :07 to have them. She told me, when I carried two people around in my belly for 37 weeks, I could decide when they came out. Actually, she said, “Shut your hole and get them out of me!” We didn’t find out the sex of any of our offspring before the day of their birth. I guessed right both times. With the boy, I had a 50/50 chance. The second time, I knew Karma was going to get even with me for being a teenage boy well into my twenties. I now have two little girls I have to protect from guys like ME! Talk about self-loathing. So, I am now gainfully employed as “the dad” to three

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children. If you are saying to yourself “being a parent isn’t work”, you’re doing it wrong. There are times being a parent is frustrating, maddening and a down-right pain. It is more physically taxing than anything I have ever done. I haven’t had a good night’s sleep in over fourteen years! You want to talk about mentally taxing? If I do my job 100% right, three of the people I love most in the world won’t need me anymore! All that abuse and the average payment is a hug in the morning and a kiss g’night…and it is completely worth it. Also, if you pay attention, the rewards are more than that. Seeing your son laugh with his whole body is worth more than all your paychecks lined up. Watching your daughter learn to read and then curl up with her favorite book in the corner of the couch is priceless. Laying your head on your pillow at night, knowing you were gifted one more day with the family you helped create, is immeasurable by any standards. I said it already. Greatest. Job. Ever. Although, one day, I hope to be promoted to “Grampa”. Mark grew up in Erie, Pennsylvania. He moved to Simpsonville in 2012 with his wife, Samantha, and their three children. Besides spending time with his family, he enjoys music, sports and writing his blog ijustwanttotellstories. wordpress.com

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POOL MAINTENANCE HELPER GENCO POOLS & SPAS Seasonal position - 40 hours/week, Mar/AprAug/Sept, Mon-Sat. Job Duties include cleaning swimming pools, adding chemicals, pool repairs. Candidate must be able to work long hours outside, lift 50+ lbs, have reliable transportation & take limited vacation over the summer. Prior pool experience & ability to return for several seasons is a plus. Contact Lauren at 864-967-8918 or info@gencopools.com

ROOM ATTENDANT HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS Room attendants are responsible for providing rooms that are cleaned to company standards, having positive interactions with guests and supporting other departments throughout the hotel. Job inquiries and applications should be completed in person at 3821 Grandview Dr. Simpsonville, SC 29680

COOKS NEEDED BURGERS & BREAKFAST Experienced cooks needed full - part time at B & B Breakfast & Burgers. 3+ years experience. Must be dependable. Breakfast experience a plus. Apply at 1004 W GEORGIA RD Simpsonville SC 29680. Right beside Food Lion! Ask for Renee or Carla. Start ASAP!

BOOKKEEPING AND OFFICE ASSISTANT - ENVIROCARE Local landscape company looking for office help 15-25 hours per week. Candidate must have reliable transportation to and from work and to run errands when needed. Prior service/construction industry is a plus and prior Quickbooks experience or equivalent is a must. Candidate must have 5 years of experience and list professional references on resume. Other responsibilities include (but not limited to): customer service, accounts payable/receivable, filing, data entry, account reconciliation, payroll and timekeeping. To apply, email resume with references and salary requirements to: admin@ envirocarelandscape.com (no phone calls please).

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OBITUARIES Douglas C. Harding Douglas C. Harding, 69, of Simpsonville, passed away on Wednesday, March 4, 2015. Born in Ashland, KY, February 11, 1946 he was a son of the late Richard B. Harding and the late Corliss Mitchell Harding. Mr. Harding was a member of First Baptist Church Simpsonville and was a veteran having served our country in the United States Air Force. He is survived by his brother, Paul Harding, and his wife, Jo Ann, of Hayward, Calif. A Memorial Service was held at First Baptist Church Simpsonville on Sunday, March 8, 2015 at 4:00 PM with Pastor Dan Taylor officiating. Interment will be a private service at M.J. “Dolly” Cooper Veterans Cemetery in Anderson, S.C. The family requests that memorials be made to First Baptist Church Simpsonville, 3 Hedge Street, Simpsonville, S.C. 29681. Heritage Funeral assisted the family.

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Henry Dillard Henry Dillard, 86, husband of the late Mildred Norman Dillard, passed away on Sunday, March 8, 2015 at Diamond Health and Rehabilitation of Simpsonville surrounded by his loving family. Born in Greenville County on April 25, 1928, he was the son of the late Henry and Harriett Dillard. Henry attended Saint Anthony of Padua Catholic School and played basketball as his favorite sport. He was a graduate of Sterling High School. Upon graduation, Henry enlisted in the United

Sates Army where he served in the Korean War and was later awarded the Purple Heart Medal due to his injuries. Henry’s work career included top Account Executive for WHYZ Radio Station. He also worked at Woodside Mills of Greenville where he was the first African American to integrate the company. His civic duties included working with the NAACP, People United to Serve Humanity (PUSH), The Boy Scouts of America, and volunteer services with the City of Greenville Recreational Department. Henry was also a faithful member of Knights of Columbus 1668, 4th Degree Assembly 1073. Henry became a member of St. Anthony of Padua in 1942 where he became the commentator for the women’s council and served on several committees over a span of many years. As the first African American ordained to the Permanent Diaconate in the Greenville area, he was authorized to assist with Mass, Weddings and Funerals, to administer Baptisms, and also had the special assignment of working with the jail ministry. Left to cherish his memory are daughters: Ethelyn Anderson and husband Harry of Fayetteville, NC; Treva J. Norman of Bowie, MD; Angela Milam and husband Calvin of the home; and Adrian C. Dillard of Greenville; son, Alexey G. Dillard of Louisville, KY; ten grandchildren: Bryant, Julian and Nina, Gale and Degena, Torrence, Trendle and Nicole, Tavarise, Tyree and Shene’, Mark and Nikie, Alexey and DeAndrea; three extended grands, Christopher, LaTasha and Monique; a host of beloved great and great, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews; and three sisters, Loretta Hailstock,

Mary Joan Williams and Lillie Mae Dorgan of New Jersey. In addition to his wife and parents, he was predeceased by five sisters, Lillie Watson, Harriett “Tiny” Smith, Carrie Mae Dillard, Arline Dillard and Betty Dillard; and one brother, Bobby Dillard. Henry’s personality was unique in that he had a likable and assuring presence. No one was ever a stranger to him and you never heard of anyone who had such a spontaneous and powerful sense of humor. His robust and hearty laugh was contagious and he was always upbeat and optimistic in every situation. There were four things he had an affection and love for, his wife Mildred, his children, the church and his hometown, Greenville. Henry was well respected in the community and he knew people from every arena of life. He was also the unofficial historian of the town. If you ever met him, simply put…you would never forget him! Visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:45AM on Saturday, March 14, 2015, at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church with the Funeral Mass to follow at 12:00PM. Burial will be in Resthaven Memorial Gardens. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www. thomasmcafee.com. Thomas McAfee Funeral Home, Southeast Chapel

Marian E. Causey Marian E. Causey, 86, wife of the late Charles Causey, died Saturday, March 7, 2014. Born in Cleveland, OH, she was the daughter of the late George and May Hutton Harwood. Mrs. Causey was a retired

school teacher. She was a member of Geneva Ohio Teachers Association and Madison YMCA. She was a member of Central Congregational Church in Madison, OH. Survivors include a daughter and her husband, Cindy and Richard Chinchar; four grandchildren, Beth Allen, Joe and John Zelenak, and Brent Chinchar; and 11 greatgrandchildren. She was predeceased by a daughter, Diane Causey. A funeral service was held Wednesday, March 11, 2015 at 11:00 am at Central Congregational Church in Madison, OH. Visitation was held after the service. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Central Congregational Church, 71 Park Street, Madison, OH 44057 or online at www.centralcongregational. com. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www. thomasmcafee.com. Thomas McAfee Home, Southeast.

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Creek Baptist Church. He was predeceased by a daughter, Wilma Darlene Queen. In addition to his beloved wife of more than 69 years, he is survived by his son, Charles Clifford Queen, Jr. and wife Mildred Russell Queen; his daughter Karen Queen Hudson and her husband James Alan Hudson; five granddaughters and their husbands: Jennifer and Boris Jordanov, Darlene and Kevin Gantt, Jane Anne and Seth Owen, Christine and Gavin MacRoberts, and Carrie and John Kilareski; eleven great grandchildren: Anna Marie, Brianna and Boris, Jr., Jordanov, Sam Gantt, Jonathan, David, Thomas and Elisabeth Owen, Ian MacRoberts, and Matt and Sarah Kilareski; one brother, Lawrence Queen; and one sister, Betty Mitchell. Visitation was held from 6:00 to 8:00PM on Sunday, March, 8, 2015, at Thomas McAfee Funeral Home, Southeast Chapel in Simpsonville, SC.

Charles Clifford Queen

A Graveside Service was held at 11:00AM on Tuesday, March 10, 2015, at Oleander Memorial Gardens in Wilmington, NC.

Charles Clifford Queen, 87, loving husband of Jane Couch Queen, went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, March 5, 2015, at McCall Hospice House of Simpsonville, SC.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Dr. Kemmerlin and his staff and the McCall Hospice of Simpsonville for their support in his final days.

Born in Greenville, SC, on January 24, 1928, he was the son of the late Clifford Crayton Queen and Christine Jones Queen. Charles graduated from Parker High School in 1944. He worked as an engineer in the textile and aerospace industries, retiring after 20 years from the General Electric Corporation Cincinnati Plant. He was a member of Rocky

Memorials may be made to Miracle Hill Ministries, P.O. Box 2546, Greenville, SC 29602, or to the charity of one’s choice. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www. thomasmcafee.com

FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015

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