South Carolina Living February 2023

2023 2024

LEGISLATIVE DIRECTORY

SC RECIPE

New life for leftovers

HUMOR ME

Toys for all ages

You can’t always lie down in bed and sleep. Heartburn, cardiac problems, hip or back aches –and dozens of other ailments and worries. Those are the nights you’d give anything for a comfortable chair to sleep in: one that reclines to exactly the right degree, raises your feet and legs just where you want them, supports your head and shoulders properly, and operates at the touch of a button.

Our Perfect Sleep Chair® does all that and more. More than a chair or recliner, it’s designed to provide total comfort. Choose your preferred heat and massage settings, for hours of soothing relaxation. Reading or watching TV? Our chair’s recline technology allows you to pause the chair in an infinite number of settings. And best of all, it features a powerful lift mechanism that tilts the entire chair forward, making it easy to stand. You’ll love the other benefits, too. It helps with correct spinal alignment and promotes back pressure relief, to prevent back and muscle pain. The overstuffed, oversized biscuit style back and unique seat design

will cradle you in comfort. Generously filled, wide armrests provide enhanced arm support when sitting or reclining. It even has a battery backup in case of a power outage.

White glove delivery included in shipping charge. Professionals will deliver the chair to the exact spot in your home where you want it, unpack it, inspect it, test it, position it, and even carry the packaging away! You get your choice of Luxurious and Lasting Miralux, Genuine Leather, stain and liquid repellent Duralux with the classic leather look, or plush MicroLux microfiber, all handcrafted in a variety of colors to fit any decor. Call now!

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“To you, it’s the perfect lift chair. To me, it’s the best sleep chair I’ve ever had.”

— J. Fitzgerald, VA

THE

MAGAZINE FOR COOPERATIVE MEMBERS

VOLUME 77 • NUMBER 2

(ISSN 0047-486X, USPS 316-240)

Read in more than 600,000 homes and businesses and published monthly except in December by

The Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina, Inc.

808 Knox Abbott Drive Cayce, SC 29033

Tel: (803) 926 -3175

Fax: (803) 796 - 6064

Email: letters@scliving.coop

EDITOR

Keith Phillips

Tel: (803) 739-3040

Email: Keith.Phillips@ecsc.org

FIELD EDITOR

Josh P. Crotzer

PUBLICATION COORDINATOR

Raphael Ofendo Reyes

ART DIRECTOR

Sharri Harris Wolfgang

DESIGNER

Trevor Bauknight

PRODUCTION

Andrew Chapman

WEB EDITOR

Chase Toler

COPY EDITORS

Jennifer Jas, Jim Poindexter

CONTRIBUTORS

Miranda Boutelle, Mike Couick, John Frick, Hastings Hensel, Jan A. Igoe, L.A. Jackson, Belinda Smith-Sullivan

PUBLISHER

Lou Green

ADVERTISING

Mary Watts

Tel: (803) 739-5074

Email: ads@scliving.coop

NATIONAL REPRESENTATION

American MainStreet Publications

Tel: (512) 441-5200

Paid advertisements are not endorsements by any electric cooperative or this publication. If you encounter a difficulty with an advertisement, inform the Editor.

ADDRESS CHANGES: Please send to your local co-op. Postmaster: Send Form 3579 to Address Change, c/o the address above. Periodicals postage paid at Columbia, S.C., and additional mailing offices.

© COPYRIGHT 2023. The Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina, Inc. No portion of South Carolina Living may be reproduced without permission of the Editor.

SOUTH CAROLINA LIVING is brought to you by your member-owned, taxpaying, not-for-profit electric cooperative to inform you about your cooperative, wise energy use and the faces and places that identify the Palmetto State. Electric cooperatives are South Carolina’s — and America’s — largest utility network.

ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS: $4.95 members, $8 nonmembers

12

Are co-ops still a good thing?

South Carolina’s not-for-profit electric cooperatives were formed 80 years ago to bring power to underserved rural communities. Today, they operate the state’s largest utility network, and the cooperative business model is stronger than ever.

16

2023–2024

Legislative Directory

Use this special edition of South Carolina Living to keep in touch with your elected officials in Columbia and Washington, D.C. We extend our grateful appreciation to South Carolina lawmakers for their cooperation in the creation of this directory.

17 South Carolina’s U.S. Senators and House Members

18 South Carolina’s Executive Branch

19 The General Assembly, Senators

23 The General Assembly, House Members

34 Public Service Commission

35 Office of Regulatory Staff

Who doesn’t love a redbud in early spring? After a winter’s worth of bare branches, this small tree erupts into a cheerful cloud of tiny blooms in pink, purple and white. 43

Fifty

Our humor columnist discovers that buying and assembling toys for kids is anything but child’s play.

Everybody

Member of the AMP network reaching more than 9 million homes and businesses

SC | agenda

Back to school

WOMEN RETURNING TO SCHOOL to earn college degrees may now apply for financial assistance from the 2023 Jenny Ballard Opportunity Scholarship program. Sponsored by Women Involved in Rural Electrification (WIRE), a service organization associated with South Carolina’s not-for-profit electric cooperatives, the scholarship is a one-time award based on financial need and personal goals.

In 2022, Ariel Arthur, a member of Aiken Electric Cooperative, and Jacqueline Kelly-Silva, a member of Horry Electric Cooperative, both received a $2,500 scholarship to complete their college education.

Arthur is pursuing an elementary education degree at Aiken Technical College in Graniteville.

“I was very, very thrilled when I got the call,” she says. “When I applied to Aiken Tech, I said, ‘Okay, God, if you want me to do this, you’re going to have

to make it happen because I don’t have the finances to pay for college.’ God keeps giving me exactly what I need when I need it.”

Kelly-Silva is studying psychology at Coastal Carolina University and hopes to

ONLY ON SCLiving.coop

Give leftover pot roast a new life

Everybody loves pot roast. It’s even better the second day when you follow Chef Belinda Smith-Sullivan’s recipes. Turn to page 40 to get started, then visit SCLiving.coop/food/chefbelinda for more recipes, tips and techniques.

Power player

Meet Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative member Terri Crosby, winner of the Who Powers You Contest sponsored by South Carolina’s electric cooperatives. Visit SCLiving.coop/news to learn how she made life better for her students and colleagues during a 35-year career at Chapin Elementary.

Download the 2023–24 Legislative Directory

Keeping in touch with your elected officials in Columbia and Washington, D.C., has never been easier, thanks to this special keepsake edition of South Carolina Living. Inside, you will find contact information for all federal and state officeholders. All information is correct as of January 2023 but subject to change. Need extra copies? Download a free PDF of this issue at SCLiving.coop/2023-2024-legislative-guide.

is pursuing a degree in psychology at Coastal Carolina University. “I’ve always felt like I was capable of something more, but I just didn’t know how to reach it,” she says. “I want to be an example to my children and be able to provide more for them.”

become a certified marriage and couples counselor.

“I’ve always contemplated going in that direction,” says Kelly-Silva. “But when I was younger, I was intimidated by all that schooling and going for a master’s degree. As I got older and began raising my kids, I realized I’m not afraid anymore.”

Applicants for the Jenny Ballard Opportunity Scholarship must:

u Be a member/customer of a South Carolina electric cooperative

u Have graduated from high school or earned their GED at least 10 years ago

u Obtain acceptance into an accredited college or university

u Demonstrate financial need

The deadline to apply is June 1, 2023. The recipient will receive the scholarship for the Fall 2023 or Spring 2024 semester, paid to the recipient’s college of choice. To apply online or to learn more, visit ecsc.org/wire

JOSH P. CROTZER

IT’S BACK!

Don’t venture outside this month without consulting our new Solunar Fish & Game Charts. Turn to page 43 and enjoy your time in the great outdoors.

PHOTOS BY JOSH P. CROTZER

Ariel Arthur’s desire to become a teacher has inspired another student—her 8-year-old son. “He’s already a classic teacher’s kid and knows the importance of grades,” says Arthur. “We do our homework together, and he loves that.”

A mother of three, Jacqueline Kelly-Silva

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2Monthly fees do not include government taxes or fees and are subject to change. For details on current pricing, visit lively.com. Plans and services may require purchase of Lively device and one-time setup fee of $35. A data plan is required for the Jitterbug Smart3. Urgent Response or 911 calls can be made only when cellular service is available. Urgent Response tracks an approx. location of device when device is turned on and connected to the network. Lively does not guarantee an exact location. Urgent Response and Lively Link are only available with the purchase of a Lively Health & Safety Package. Consistently rated the most reliable network and best overall network performance in the country by IHS Markit’s RootScore Reports. Amazon Alexa integration with Jitterbug Flip2 requires Alexa registration and is subject to Alexa’s Terms of Use. By enabling Alexa on the Jitterbug Flip2, you acknowledge that Lively is not responsible for Amazon Alexa’s functionality or services. Amazon, Alexa and all related logos are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Screen images simulated. Appearance of device may vary. LIVELY and JITTERBUG are trademarks

companies.

reserved.

COUICK President

The fourth leg of resiliency

IN LAST NOVEMBER’S “DIALOGUE” about our partnership with the University of South Carolina and their innovative research into energy generation and storage, I mentioned an analogy of a threelegged stool. Projects they pursue must 1) be good for the University, 2) have practical applications and 3) be good for the people of South Carolina.

For decades, electric cooperatives have used the same analogy when vetting their service to members is it 1) reliable, 2) affordable and 3) responsible? Those three legs provide accountability for your cooperative as they make sure the power stays on 99.999% of the time, your rates are fair, and the generation and distribution of electricity is safe and environmentally responsible.

Your co-op knows there will be storms that cause outages, so they are prepared for them. They know what drives the cost of delivering power to you, and they adjust to keep your rates stable. They’ve made investments in renewable and efficient energy while remaining committed to our industry’s safe practices.

But the events of the last few years have me convinced that our stool is a leg short. Our three legs only address the predictable present and immediate future. But what of the unpredictable and imperceptible? Like a pandemic, which forced cooperatives to alter the way they interacted with members? Or a war in Ukraine that drove up the price of energy resources here in the U.S.? Not to mention the supply chain and labor shortages that wreaked havoc on an industry dependent upon specialized equipment and a specialized workforce?

We need a fourth leg that represents the resiliency shown through these changes and challenges. Resiliency is sometimes confused with reliability, but it’s different. It’s not just being prepared; it’s how you respond to a disruption you can’t prepare for. It’s the capacity to adapt to inevitable change, even when we don’t know what that change will look like. Resiliency shouldn’t be bouncing back; it’s bouncing forward.

When offices closed and social gatherings were risky endeavors, co-ops bounced forward with online and mobile payment options and drivethru annual meeting registrations. They absorbed and adjusted to increased expenses caused by the war in Ukraine by taking advantage of the fuel

and generation diversity they had already invested in. Thanks to resilient partners like Cooperative Electric Energy Utility Supply (CEEUS), the cooperatives’ primary provider of equipment and materials, supply shortages have had minimal impact on cooperative members.

As the auto industry shifts to manufacturing mostly electric vehicles in the next few years, we know a massive change to residential energy consumption is on the horizon, but there is still a great deal we don’t know. How quickly do our members transition from gas to electric? What impact will home charging stations have on the reliability and cost of service to those members?

Encountering these unknowns and responding to them once they manifest take resilient leaders like the ones you have at your cooperative and on your cooperative’s board of trustees. Resilient leadership is looking ahead to the impact electric vehicles will have on the infrastructure your co-op built for a very different type of residential load. They’re already using data to help analyze those prospective changes to the delivery system. Resilient leaders at your cooperatives are making sure they listen to a variety of opinions, always willing to include that devil’s advocate who can see around corners in a different way.

Whether or not it has been recognized as a leg on our stool, resiliency is the reason electric cooperatives have been around for more than 80 years. It will definitely be one of the reasons why cooperatives will be around for another 80 years, providing you service reliably, affordably and responsibly through all the changes to come.

MIKE

and CEO, The Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina

Resiliency is sometimes confused with reliability, but it’s different. It’s not just being prepared; it’s how you respond to a disruption you can’t prepare for.

Bad to the Bone

Full tang stainless steel blade with natural bone handle —now ONLY $79!

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The blade is full tang, meaning it doesn’t stop at the handle but extends to the length of the grip for the ultimate in strength. The blade is made from 420 surgical steel, famed for its sharpness and its resistance to corrosion.

The handle is made from genuine natural bone, and features decorative wood spacers and a hand-carved motif of two overlapping feathers— a reminder for you to respect and connect with the natural world. This fusion of substance and style can garner a high price tag out in the marketplace. In fact, we found full tang, stainless steel blades with bone handles in excess of $2,000. Well, that won’t cut it around here. We have mastered the hunt for the best deal, and in turn pass the spoils on to our customers. But we don’t stop there. While supplies last, we’ll include a pair of $99 8x21 power compact binoculars and a genuine leather sheath FREE when you purchase the Huntsman Blade

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Get smart

BY MIRANDA BOUTELLE

QWhat are “smart home” technologies, and will they help me save energy?

AYou’ve probably heard the term “smart home” a lot in recent years. “Smart” was originally an acronym for selfmonitoring analysis and reporting technology. This refers to technology that can be programmed for automation or controlled remotely using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi from a smartphone app or online. A smart home is one with automated control of appliances and systems, such as lighting fixtures and heating and cooling systems.

There are multiple reasons people choose to automate their homes, including convenience, energy efficiency and security. Just because a product is smart, don’t assume it’s energy efficient. Always look for the Energy Star logo when shopping, which certifies the products meet standards for energy efficiency.

Energy savings typically come from automating the systems, devices and appliances in your home to use less energy or use energy when it costs less. Here are a few ways you can start implementing smart technology at home.

HEATING AND COOLING Because heating and cooling account for the most energy use in a home, these systems are the best place to look for energy savings.

Smart thermostats offer features and functionality that can help you save energy and money without thinking about it, including learning preferences and automatically setting temperatures. Geofencing is a clever feature that uses your phone’s location to gauge your distance from home and adjusts the temperature accordingly.

Smart thermostats also let you control the thermostat from anywhere with

an internet connection, and automatic software updates use new algorithms to maximize energy savings. Features vary by product, so be sure to choose the one that’s right for you.

SMART WINDOWS AND LIGHTING

Smart window coverings such as the Serena Smart Roller Shades can help save energy in the winter and summer by controlling the amount of exterior sunlight and heat that enter the room. Shades can be adjusted using a smartphone app in response to the temperature of the room or according to a preset schedule.

Smart lighting systems can help you remotely control lights in your home based on occupancy or a preset schedule. Lighting also can be paired with home security systems.

LET THE SUNSHINE IN (OR NOT) Smart window coverings, such as these Serena Smart Roller Shades, can help save energy in the winter and summer with app capabilities and preset schedules.

SMART STREAMING FOR THE LIVING ROOM

Many people use Wi-Fi to stream TV shows and movies. Smart TVs with built-in streaming functionality offer the most efficient way to stream content. If your TV cannot connect to the internet for streaming, opt for a streaming media player, such as Roku or Apple TV. They use 15 times less energy than a gaming console to stream the same shows and movies.

SAVE IN THE LAUNDRY ROOM

Smart washing machines can be scheduled to run during off-peak energy times (when people in your community use less energy), which is helpful if your electric rate is based on the time of day energy is used. Smart clothes dryers can shut off automatically when your clothes are dry.

SMART SAVINGS IN THE KITCHEN

There are many options for smart appliances in the heart of the home. Smart refrigerators offer energy-saving features, such as notifications when the door is left open and digital screens that show the contents to keep you from opening the door just to see what’s inside.

Smart ovens let you preheat when you are on your way home or check if you forgot to turn off the oven when you are away. Toasters, range hoods, microwaves and countertop ice makers are among the growing list of additional smart kitchen gadgets available.

MIRANDA BOUTELLE is the vice president of operations and customer engagement at Efficiency Services Group, a cooperatively owned energy efficiency company. She writes on energy efficiency topics for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

Just because a product is smart, don’t assume it’s energy efficient. Always look for the Energy Star logo when shopping.

SERENA BY LUTRON

The brightly-painted fisherman houses on Burano Island in Venice are the inspiration behind The Murano Rainbow Necklace

FREE Matching Bracelet Send Her Over The Rainbow

NowI know how that little farm girl from Kansas felt when she went over the rainbow and awoke in a land of spectacular color. Look what I found in the land of ahhs!

Approaching Burano Island off of northern Venice was like being swept away in a dream. Known for its brightly-painted fisherman houses that line the canals, I was greeted with every color of the rainbow. Since before the Venetian Republic, Burano was home to fishermen and legend says that the houses were painted in bright hues so they could see their way home when fog blanketed the lagoon.

Inspiration struck. I wanted to capture this historical beauty in the centuries old art form of Murano. Still regarded as being the finest form craftsmanship in the world, Murano has evolved into modern day fashion statements.

So I hopped on a vaporetto for a forty minute ride to Venice and sought out the impeccable talents of one of Venice’s finest Murano artisans. They’ve captured the vibrant colors of the iconic fisherman houses in the perfect hand-formed beads of The Rainbow Murano Necklace. To own a piece of authentic Murano is to own a piece of fine art steeped in history. Each and every piece is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

I want to make it easy for you to send her over the rainbow. That’s why for a limited time you can treat her to the The Murano Rainbow

Necklace for only $39. And, to help you double down on romance, I’ll throw in the matching bracelet absolutely FREE! As one of the largest importers of handcrafted Italian jewelry, we have a way of making dreams that you dare to dream come true.

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“In recent years, a group of international designers and artists has rediscovered the innate modernity of Italian blown glass, turning to Murano as inspiration…” — New York Times, 2020

Are co-ops still a goodthing?

Tackling today’s complex problems with homegrown

common sense

BY JOHN FRICK

BEFORE LOU GREEN BECAME A LEADING South Carolina news anchor and, later, publisher of this magazine, he grew up on his parents’ dairy farm in south Georgia, plowing crops, loading hay and performing other farm work to keep the family business operating.

The farm was served by an electric cooperative, and although Lou did not attend the co-op’s annual meetings, his parents let him know “the co-op was a good thing.” The feeling stuck through two decades in broadcasting and to the day he came to work as a top executive at The Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina, Inc., the state association of electric cooperatives. “I still feel it,” he says, 30 years later.

Hundreds of thousands of South Carolinians have the same sentiment. They don’t give deep thought to how electricity works. They just want it to work. Always. They don’t analyze the corporate structure of their utility. They just want it to be responsive to their needs. Always.

Electricity is as close to a biological human need today as something external to us can be. For most of us, it is how we get our food, our water and our warmth. So, it makes sense to ask, in our fast-paced, ever-changing and electricity-dependent world, are co-ops still a good thing?

I believe that they are. In fact, I believe they may turn out to be even better suited to address the challenges we face today

than they were in electrifying rural areas 80-plus years ago.

You don’t have to be a cooperative member to understand the benefits of a member-owned utility. The local control. The ownership by consumer members. The business structure that focuses on consumer needs, not shareholder profits.

Cooperatives are the antidote to many of the ills we see in our world today. While chasing better outcomes via automation, increased scale and more complex systems, many of our most-needed institutions have begun to lack humanity, become detached, move slowly and shake our trust.

Where bureaucratic red tape at large institutions keeps needed innovation from occurring in a timely manner, member-owned cooperatives have the ability to respond quickly.

Where big companies can put profits over people, cooperatives, by their very nature, are service-oriented.

Where monolithic authorities create one-size-fits-all solutions to problems, cooperatives bring offerings specifically tailored to their local communities.

The customers are always right

A challenge for any entity with thousands of owners is balancing transparency and accountability with the ability to operate nimbly. For-profit monopolies like investor-owned utility companies are typically regulated by a third-party

LOCAL CONTROL Not even a pandemic could keep co-op memberowners from voting at their annual meetings. In fact, attendance and participation increased when Berkeley Electric and many other cooperatives offered a drive-thru option.

MICAH

THE COOPERATIVE DIFFERENCE 1 In-person annual meetings also draw large crowds of engaged co-op members. Whether votes are taken by electronic ballot 2, as at Lynches River Electric Cooperative, or by paper ballot 3, as at Berkeley Electric Cooperative, each co-op member-owner has a say in how their utility operates. 4 Co-ops specialize in bringing “right-sized” local solutions to local problems, such as a lack of highspeed internet service in rural communities. Case in point: TriCoLink, the broadband subsidiary of Tri-County Electric Cooperative, has installed fiberoptic lines throughout its service territory, 5 delighting co-op members like Ken and Delia Hasty of St. Matthews. 6 Customer service is a top priority for locally owned electric cooperatives. When you call the member service line, you talk to a caring, local professional like Horry Electric Cooperative’s Colby Hunsucker, not some far-away call center.

commission whose job it is to ensure that consumers are protected. For government-owned entities, consumers have a voice either directly or indirectly through their elected officials.

Both of these models have their advantages, but they also can lack the ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances. Most public matters move slowly. Matters that involve regulatory, legal or legislative proceedings, by their nature, take time. That fact is not an accident or byproduct of poor design; it is a feature designed to encourage reasoned decision-making. For investor-owned, for-profit utilities, time is built in so the third parties representing the interests of the customer can be heard. For government-owned entities, particularly those whose customers are not directly represented, time is built into the political process, and every citizen, whether they take service or not, has the ability to be involved.

In contrast, cooperatives have regulation and oversight by their consumers built into their very structure. Every person who takes service from the cooperative has a vote. Cooperative members directly select the people who decide what is and what isn’t acceptable for their utility. The consumers select the leadership, who then set the rates and guide the direction of the cooperative. Everyone who sits on a board of a co-op and makes those decisions has to be a consumer of the cooperative.

This structure eliminates the need for third-party regulation since the consumers own and run the business themselves. It creates businesses with a nimble accountability. In fact, third-party regulation of cooperatives only makes them less nimble and less directly accountable to their consumers. If legally authorized decisions made by a distant authority contradict the legally authorized decisions made by a locally elected board, how are the interests of consumers served?

This direct consumer control also allows cooperatives to merge functions without losing this nimble accountability. There is an advantage to spreading very large costs across a very large number of people so that each person shares a relatively small amount of the burden. Cooperatives have figured out a way to combine forces and spread costs over many more consumers while keeping all of the decisions in the hands of their members. It is a benefit baked into a model where consumers own and control the company that serves them.

People over profits

The service orientation of cooperatives is ingrained in their DNA.

Electric cooperatives are not-for-profit companies. If your co-op takes in more than it needs to operate in any given year, those excess funds are held in trust for the members. uu

WALTER ALLREAD

JOSH

P.

CROTZER

JOSH

P.

CROTZER

JOSH

P.

CROTZER

JOSH

P. CROTZER

JENNIFER CUMMINGS

Are co-ops still a good thing?

When there are enough operating funds to do so, those excess funds are returned to members on a pro rata basis. These excess funds are called “capital credits,” and they come back in the form of a check or a bill credit.

Cooperatives invest heavily in economic development. In some communities, the cooperative is the primary driver of the effort to bring jobs and new industries. When cooperatives engage in economic development, they do so based on a formula that ensures a positive payback for all members within a short timeframe, and they employ agreements that claw back funds if job and investment thresholds are not met.

Since maximizing profits is not the measuring stick for an electric cooperative, it can more easily focus on other measures of success. Reliability and safety are the two that would be most familiar to folks, but member satisfaction is the ultimate report card for an electric cooperative. That measure is taken each year through the American Customer Satisfaction Index, and electric cooperatives outpace many of the forprofit power providers. If you’ve ever experienced an issue with a bill, had a unique request, or lived through an extended outage, you’ve seen the cooperative commitment to service firsthand. And if you haven’t experienced any of these, that may be because the co-op’s commitment to service prevented the issue before it occurred.

Locally operated

Little is more frustrating than having a problem with an institution and trying to solve it by talking to someone hundreds miles away (or more). Frequently, we find ourselves at the mercy of a person who can’t relate to our problem in an office that is detached from what’s really happening on the ground. Even when the person on the other end of the line is kind, professional and caring, they can be constrained by one-size-fits-all rules.

On the other hand, little is more satisfying than making a call when you have a problem, reaching a neighbor you know and trust, and knowing they’ll take care of it for you. With an electric cooperative, you know the owner (look in the mirror!), you may go to church with the CEO, or your kids may go to school with the children of a board member. You may be as likely to talk about an issue with your service in the grocery store as you are when calling the member service line.

Another benefit to being part of a local cooperative is the service offerings that are geared to the needs and desires

of the community. A great example of this “right-sizing” approach is high-speed internet access, also known as broadband. In some communities in South Carolina, electric cooperatives have initiated broadband service. In other communities, they have not. In all cases, the decisions were made by local people based on the needs of the community. They were not made by a distant authority determined to offer a one-size-fits-all “solution.”

The co-op is yours

At a time when faith in traditionally trusted institutions is low, having a direct say in the operation of something as fundamental as your power company is more important than ever. But, like most things, you only get out of it what you put in.

The cooperative model is an extraordinarily powerful thing. It has literally electrified some of the most remote spots on planet Earth, bringing a quality of life to people that was unimaginable just four generations ago. The cooperative model, like democracy itself, is also fragile. It cannot function well without the active participation of its members. A strong cooperative has a membership that is engaged and active. They are willing to share their ideas, their time and their effort to harness the power of working together to improve people’s lives in their communities.

As cooperative members, you are doing a great job of actively engaging with your companies. Even when we have seen problems arise within cooperatives, an active and engaged membership has asserted itself and made sure that the consumers at the end of the line, and the principles upon which the cooperatives are founded, were served.

Lou Green’s childhood sense that “the co-op is a good thing” stayed with him throughout a career in the cooperative movement. Having served as the emcee at hundreds of cooperative annual meetings, he still relishes how good it is to see South Carolina co-op members working together through their cooperatives to build, maintain and operate the state’s largest utility network.

“It’s hard not to visit a cooperative annual meeting without feeling invigorated and inspired by it,” he says. “People pulling together to help each other will always be a good thing.”

JOHN FRICK is the Vice President for Government Relations at The Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina, Inc., the statewide association of not-for-profit electric cooperatives.

The cooperative business model eliminates the need for third-party regulation since the consumers own and run the business themselves. It creates businesses with a nimble accountability. In fact, third-party regulation of cooperatives only makes them less nimble and less accountable to their members.

CONTENTS

17 South Carolina’s U.S. Senators and House Members

18 South Carolina’s Executive Branch

19 The General Assembly, Senators

23 The General Assembly, House Members

34 Public Service Commission

35 Office of Regulatory Staff

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

Each legislator’s name is followed by his or her district number and the counties he or she serves, along with contact information.

State Senate and House offices are on the State Capitol grounds. State Senate offices are in the Gressette Building. State House offices are in the Blatt Building.

All information is current as of Jan. 20, 2023, but is subject to change without notice.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

We extend our grateful appreciation to South Carolina lawmakers for their cooperation in the creation of this directory.

NEED REPRINTS?

Due to overwhelming demand for this directory issue, South Carolina Living can only supply a limited number of extra copies for schools and civic groups.

To request additional copies or download a free PDF version, visit SCLiving.coop/2023-2024-legislative-guide.

2023 – 2024 LEGISLATIVE DIRECTORY

The Co-op Commitment

ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES HAVE SERVED the people of South Carolina for more than 80 years. From their beginnings as small companies formed and owned by the members they serve to their role today as leaders in economic development, community involvement and industry innovation, each of South Carolina’s not-forprofit electric cooperatives has been guided by seven basic principles:

u Voluntary and open membership

u Democratic member control

u Members’ equitable economic participation

u Autonomy and independence of each cooperative

u Education, training and information for the public, members and opinion leaders

u Cooperation between cooperatives

u Concern for community

The energy challenges to our state and nation over the next decade will continue to evolve. Cooperatives are dedicated to balancing the goals of affordability, reliability, environmental responsibility, and resilience to meet these challenges in a way that maximizes the benefits to the consumers and the communities we serve. Electric cooperatives serve some of the most economically prosperous and some of the most economically depressed areas of South Carolina. Ensuring that all South Carolinians have access to new energy innovations, and the opportunities they present, is our top priority.

As we embark on the ninth decade of cooperative service in this state, we are dedicated to honoring the great legacy built by those who came before us by constantly renewing our dedication to exemplifying cooperative principles, to improving the lives of those we serve and to being the most innovative force for positive development our state can offer.

Electric cooperatives are grateful to the General Assembly for remembering that our member-owners and their voters are one and the same, and we thank them for their continued support of the cooperative program. To them, we pledge to continue to not only measure our policies by what is best for our members, but also what is best for our state. If we can be of service, please contact us.

President & CEO

The Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina (803) 739-3034

Mike.Couick@ecsc.org

Vice President Government Relations (803) 739-3064

John.Frick@ecsc.org

U.S. Senate

Lindsey Graham [R]

290 Russell Senate Office Building

Washington, DC 20510

(202) 224-5972

Website: lgraham.senate.gov

Tim Scott [R]

104 Hart Senate Office Building

Washington, DC 20510

(202) 224-6121

Website: scott.senate.gov

U.S. House

Nancy Mace [R]

1ST DISTRICT

Beaufort, Berkeley, Charleston, Colleton, Dorchester & Jasper Cos.

1728 Longworth House Office Building

Washington, DC 20515

Phone: (202) 225-3176

Website: mace.house.gov

Joe Wilson [R]

2ND DISTRICT

WRITTEN IN 1787, RATIFIED IN 1788, and in effect since 1789, the United States Constitution is the world’s longest-surviving written charter of government. Its first three words—“We the People”—affirm that the government exists to serve its citizens. The supremacy of the people through their elected representatives is recognized in Article I, which creates a Congress consisting of a Senate and a House of Representatives. The positioning of Congress at the beginning of the Constitution reaffirms its status as the first branch of the federal government.

The Senate is composed of two senators from each state, elected by voters, for six-year terms.

Under the Constitution, each state is entitled to at least one representative. Additional seats are apportioned on the basis of the state’s population. Congress fixes the size of the House of Representatives and the procedure of apportioning the number among the states. Each state is apportioned its number of representatives by means of the Department of Commerce’s decennial census. South Carolina has seven representatives elected by voters to serve two-year terms.

NOTE: All information is current as of Jan. 20, 2023, but is subject to change without notice.

Aiken, Barnwell, Lexington, Orangeburg & Richland Cos.

1436 Longworth House Office Building

Washington, DC 20515

Phone: (202) 225-2452

Website: joewilson.house.gov

Jeff Duncan [R]

3RD DISTRICT

Abbeville, Anderson, Edgefield, Greenville, Greenwood, Laurens, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Pickens & Saluda Cos.

2229 Rayburn House Office Building

Washington, DC 20515

Phone: (202) 225-5301

Website: jeffduncan.house.gov

William Timmons [R]

4TH DISTRICT

Greenville & Spartanburg Cos.

267 Cannon House Office Building

Washington, DC 20515

Phone: (202) 225-6030

Website: timmons.house.gov

South Carolina congressional districts

Ralph Norman [R]

5TH DISTRICT

Cherokee, Chester, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lancaster, Lee, Spartanburg, Sumter, Union & York Cos.

569 Cannon House Office Building

Washington, DC 20515

Phone: (202) 225-5501

Website: norman.house.gov

James Clyburn [D]

6TH DISTRICT

Allendale, Bamberg, Calhoun, Charleston, Clarendon, Colleton, Dorchester, Florence, Hampton, Jasper, Orangeburg, Richland, Sumter & Williamsburg Cos.

274 Cannon House Office Building

Washington, DC 20515

Phone: (202) 225-3315

Website: clyburn.house.gov

Russell Fry [R]

7TH DISTRICT

Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Georgetown, Horry, Marion & Marlboro Cos.

1626 Longworth House Office Building

Washington, DC 20515

Phone: (202) 225-9895

Website: fry.house.gov

GOVERNOR

Henry D. McMaster [R]

Governor’s Mansion

800 Richland St., Columbia, 29201

Office of the Governor

1100 Gervais St., Columbia, 29201

(803) 734-2100

Website: governor.sc.gov

LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR

Pamela Evette [R]

1100 Gervais St., Columbia, 29201

(803) 734-2100

Website: ltgov.sc.gov

CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS

SECRETARY OF STATE

Mark Hammond [R]

Edgar Brown Building

1205 Pendleton St., Suite 525

Columbia, 29201

(803) 734-2170

Website: sos.sc.gov

TREASURER

Curtis M. Loftis Jr. [R]

Wade Hampton Office Building

1200 Senate St., Suite 214 Columbia, 29201

(803) 734-2101

Fax: (803) 734-2690

Website: treasurer.sc.gov

ATTORNEY GENERAL

Alan Wilson [R]

Rembert Dennis Building PO Box 11549

Columbia, 29201

(803) 734-3970

Fax: (803) 253-6283

Website: scag.gov

COMPTROLLER GENERAL

Richard A. Eckstrom [R]

Wade Hampton Office Building

1200 Senate St., Suite 305

Columbia, 29201

(803) 734-2121

Website: cg.sc.gov

THE SOUTH CAROLINA EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT includes the governor, lieutenant governor and seven constitutional officers. All serve four-year terms. The governor is the chief magistrate with supreme executive authority. The lieutenant governor assumes the position of governor if the governor is incapacitated. The secretary of state is responsible for the statewide registration of corporations, uniform commercial code interests, business opportunities, employment agencies, trademarks and notaries. The state treasurer is responsible for the receipt, investment and disbursement of all public funds for the state. The attorney general heads the state legal department. The comptroller general is the state’s chief fiscal officer and fiscal watchdog. The superintendent of education leads a system to enable students to become educated, responsible and contributing citizens. The adjutant general heads the state’s military department. The commissioner of agriculture promotes and nurtures the growth and development of South Carolina’s agriculture industry.

NOTE: All information is current as of Jan. 20, 2023, but is subject to change without notice.

STATE SUPERINTENDENT OF EDUCATION

Ellen Weaver [R]

Rutledge Building

1429 Senate St.

Columbia, 29201

(803) 734-8500

Website: ed.sc.gov

ADJUTANT GENERAL

Maj. Gen. Roy V. McCarty

S.C. Joint Force Headquarters 1 National Guard Road Columbia, 29201 (803) 299-4200

Website: scguard.com

COMMISSIONER OF AGRICULTURE

Hugh E. Weathers [R]

Wade Hampton Office Building PO Box 11280

Columbia, 29211

(803) 734-2190

Website: agriculture.sc.gov

S.C. Senate

Senators’ offices are in the Gressette Building, Columbia.

(H) Home district

(O) Columbia office

THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY crafts South Carolina state laws and consists of two bodies: the South Carolina House of Representatives and the South Carolina Senate. There are 124 members of the S.C. House, who are elected every two years, and 46 members of the S.C. Senate, who are elected every four years, concurrent with the United States presidential election. The legislature convenes at the State House in Columbia from the second Tuesday in January until the second Thursday in May. The session may be extended if the House fails to pass a budget by March 31, or the BEA submits a forecast reduction, or by a vote of both bodies.

Brian Adams [R]

District 44 – Berkeley, Charleston & Dorchester Cos.

(H) 121 Londonderry Road, Goose Creek, 29445

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 613 (803) 212-6056

Email: BrianAdams@scsenate.gov

Thomas C. Alexander [R]

District 1 – Oconee & Pickens Cos.

(H) 150 Cleveland Drive, Walhalla, 29691

Business: (864) 638-2988

Home: (864) 638-2153

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 213 (803) 212-6220

Email: ThomasAlexander@scsenate.gov

Karl B. Allen [D]

District 7 – Greenville Co.

(H) 108 Lavinia Ave., Greenville, 29601 Business: (864) 235-9049

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 610 (803) 212-6040

Email: KarlAllen@scsenate.gov

Sean M. Bennett [R]

District 38 – Berkeley, Charleston & Dorchester Cos.

(H) 122 President Circle, Summerville, 29483 Business: (843) 821-3009

Home: (843) 821-3352

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 205 (803) 212-6410

Email: SeanBennett@scsenate.gov

George E. “Chip” Campsen III [R]

District 43 – Beaufort, Charleston & Colleton Cos.

(H) 360 Concord St., Suite 201, Charleston, 29401

Business: (843) 722-0123

Home: (843) 886-8454

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 305

(803) 212-6340

Email: SFGFComm@scsenate.gov

Richard J. Cash [R]

District 3 – Anderson Co.

(H) PO Box 51034, Piedmont, 29673

Cell: (864) 505-2130

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 506 (803) 212-6124

Email: RichardCash@scsenate.gov

Wes Climer [R]

District 15 – York Co.

(H) PO Box 4898, Rock Hill, 29732

Business: (803) 752-0052

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 404 (803) 212-6230

Email: WesClimer@scsenate.gov

Thomas D. “Tom” Corbin [R]

District 5 – Greenville & Spartanburg Cos.

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 501 (803) 212-6100

Email: TomCorbin@scsenate.gov

Ronnie W. Cromer [R]

District 18 – Lexington, Newberry & Union Cos.

(H) PO Box 378, Prosperity, 29127 Home: (803) 364-3950

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 410 (803) 212-6240

Email: SBIComm@scsenate.gov

Tom Davis [R]

District 46 – Beaufort & Jasper Cos.

(H) PO Drawer 1107, Beaufort, 29901-1107

Business: (843) 252-8583

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 203

(803) 212-6080

Email: TomDavis@scsenate.gov

Mike Fanning [D]

District 17 – Chester, Fairfield & York Cos.

(H) 7825 Camp Welfare Road, Great Falls, 29055

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 502 (803) 212-6108

Email: MikeFanning@scsenate.gov

Michael W. Gambrell [R]

District 4 – Abbeville, Anderson & Greenwood Cos.

(H) Business: (864) 844-3614

Home: (864) 369-0613

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 504 (803) 212-6032

Email: MikeGambrell@scsenate.gov

Billy Garrett [R]

District 10 – Abbeville, Greenwood, McCormick & Saluda Cos.

(H) 109 Oak Ave., Greenwood, 29646

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 504 (803) 212-6032

Email: BillyGarrett@scsenate.gov

Stephen L. Goldfinch [R]

District 34 – Charleston, Georgetown & Horry Cos.

(H) PO Box 823, Murrells Inlet, 29576 Business: (843) 357-9301

Home: (843) 385-4302

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 513 (803) 212-6172

Email: StephenGoldfinch@scsenate.gov

Lawrence K. “Larry” Grooms [R]

District 37 – Berkeley & Charleston Cos.

(H) 131 Indian Field Drive, Bonneau, 29431

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 313 (803) 212-6400

Email: STransComm@scsenate.gov

Penry Gustafson [R]

District 27 – Chesterfield, Kershaw & Lancaster Cos.

(H) 236 Hackamore Lane, Camden, 29020

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 610

(803) 212-6040

Email: PenryGustafson@scsenate.gov

Richard A. “Dick” Harpootlian [D]

District 20 – Lexington & Richland Cos.

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201

Room 512

(803) 212-6148

Email: DickHarpootlian@scsenate.gov

Greg Hembree [R]

District 28 – Dillon & Horry Cos.

(H) PO Box 944, N. Myrtle Beach, 29597

Business: (843) 946-6556

Home: (843) 222-1001

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 402 (803) 212-6350

Email: GregHembree@scsenate.gov

Brad Hutto [D]

District 40 – Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Colleton, Hampton & Orangeburg Cos.

(H) PO Box 1084, Orangeburg, 29116-1084

Business: (803) 534-5218

Home: (803) 536-1808

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 510 (803) 212-6140

Email: BradHutto@scsenate.gov

Darrell Jackson [D]

District 21 – Richland Co.

(H) 608 Motley Road, Hopkins, 29061

Business: (803) 647-5157

Home: (803) 776-6954

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 612 (803) 212-6048

Email: DarrellJackson@scsenate.gov

Kevin L. Johnson [D]

District 36 – Clarendon, Darlington, Florence & Sumter Cos.

(H) PO Box 156, Manning, 29102

Home: (803) 435-8117

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 613 (803) 212-6056

Email: KevinJohnson@scsenate.gov

Michael Johnson [R]

District 16 – Lancaster & York Cos.

(H) 1201 Carolina Place, Suite 103, Fort Mill, 29708

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 602 (803) 212-6008

Email: MichaelJohnson@scsenate.gov

Josh Kimbrell [R]

District 11 – Spartanburg Co.

(H) 500 Ammons Road, Spartanburg, 29306

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 502 (803) 212-6108

Email: JoshKimbrell@scsenate.gov

Marlon E. Kimpson [D]

District 42 – Charleston & Dorchester Cos.

(H) PO Box 22403, Charleston, 29414

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 508 (803) 212-6132

Email: MarlonKimpson@scsenate.gov

Dwight A. Loftis [R]

District 6 – Greenville Co.

(H) PO Box 14784, Greenville, 29610

Home: (864) 834-5760

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 501 (803) 212-6100

Email: DwightLoftis@scsenate.gov

Gerald Malloy [D]

District 29 – Chesterfield, Darlington, Lee & Marlboro Cos.

(H) 1216 Salem Road, Hartsville, 29550

Business: (843) 339-3000

Home: (843) 332-5533

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 513

(803) 212-6172

Email: GeraldMalloy@scsenate.gov

Shane R. Martin [R]

District 13 – Greenville, Spartanburg & Union Cos.

(H) PO Box 575, Pauline, 29374

Cell: (864) 804-8499

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 211

(803) 212-6420

Email: ShaneMartin@scsenate.gov

A. Shane Massey [R]

District 25 – Aiken, Edgefield, Lexington, McCormick & Saluda Cos.

(H) PO Box 551, Edgefield, 29824

Home: (803) 480-0419

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 311

(803) 212-6330

Email: ShaneMassey@scsenate.gov

Margie Bright Matthews [D]

District 45 – Allendale, Beaufort, Charleston, Colleton, Hampton & Jasper Cos.

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 602 (803) 212-6008

Email: MargieBrightMatthews@scsenate.gov

J. Thomas McElveen III [D]

District 35 – Kershaw, Lee, Richland & Sumter Cos.

(H) PO Box 57, Sumter, 29151

Business: (803) 775-1263

Home: (803) 778-0597

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 508 (803) 212-6132

Email: ThomasMcElveen@scsenate.gov

Mia S. McLeod

District 22 – Kershaw & Richland Cos.

(H) PO Box 290692, Columbia, 29229

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 604 (803) 212-6016

Email: Mia@scsenate.gov

Harvey S. Peeler Jr. [R]

District 14 – Cherokee, Spartanburg, Union & York Cos.

(H) PO Box 742, Gaffney, 29342

Business: (864) 489-9994

Home: (864) 489-3766

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 111 (803) 212-6430

Email: HarveyPeeler@scsenate.gov

Luke A. Rankin [R]

District 33 – Horry Co.

(H) 201 Beaty St., Conway, 29526

Business: (843) 248-2405

Home: (843) 626-6269

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 101 (803) 212-6610

Email: SJudComm@scsenate.gov

Mike Reichenbach [R]

District 31 – Darlington & Florence Cos.

(H) PO Box 3254, Florence, 29502

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 604 (803) 212-6016

Email: MikeReichenbach@scsenate.gov

Rex F. Rice [R]

District 2 – Pickens Co.

(H) PO Box 1706, Easley, 29641 Cell: (864) 884-0408

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 601 (803) 212-6116

Email: RexRice@scsenate.gov

Ronnie A. Sabb [D]

District 32 – Berkeley, Florence, Georgetown, Horry & Williamsburg Cos.

(H) PO Box 311, Greeleyville, 29056 Business: (843) 355-5349

Home: (843) 426-4138

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 606 (803) 212-6024

Email: RonnieSabb@scsenate.gov

John L. Scott Jr. [D]

District 19 – Richland Co.

(H) 215 Elmont Drive, Columbia, 29203 Business: (803) 733-5176

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 506 (803) 212-6124

Email: JohnScott@scsenate.gov

Sandy Senn [R]

District 41 – Charleston & Dorchester Cos.

(H) PO Box 12279, Charleston, 29422

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 601

(803) 212-6116

Email: SandySenn@scsenate.gov

Nikki G. Setzler [D]

District 26 – Aiken, Calhoun, Lexington & Saluda Cos.

(H) 249 Congaree Park Drive, West Columbia, 29169

Business: (803) 796-1285

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 510

(803) 212-6140

Email: NikkiSetzler@scsenate.gov

Katrina Frye Shealy [R]

District 23 – Lexington Co.

(H) PO Box 84783, Lexington, 29073

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 303 (803) 212-6320

Email: KatrinaShealy@scsenate.gov

Vernon Stephens [D]

District 39 – Berkeley, Calhoun, Colleton, Dorchester & Orangeburg Cos.

(H) 8534 Charleston Highway, Bowman, 29018

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 606 (803) 212-6024

Email: VernonStephens@scsenate.gov

Scott Talley [R]

District 12 – Greenville & Spartanburg Cos.

(H) 291 S. Pine St., Spartanburg, 29302

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 612 (803) 212-6048

Email: ScottTalley@scsenate.gov

Ross Turner [R]

District 8 – Greenville Co.

(H) PO Box 16703, Greenville, 29606

Business: (864) 288-9513

Home: (864) 987-0596

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 512 (803) 212-6148

Email: RossTurner@scsenate.gov

Daniel B. “Danny” Verdin III [R]

District 9 – Greenville & Laurens Cos.

(H) PO Box 272, Laurens, 29360

Business: (864) 984-4129

Home: (864) 682-8914

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 412 (803) 212-6250

Email: DannyVerdin@scsenate.gov

Kent M. Williams [D]

District 30 – Dillon, Florence, Horry, Marion & Marlboro Cos.

(H) 4205 Stirk Place, Marion, 29571

Business: (843) 423-8237

Home: (843) 362-0307

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201 Room 608 (803) 212-6000

Email: KentWilliams@scsenate.gov

Tom Young Jr. [R]

District 24 – Aiken Co.

(H) PO Box 651, Aiken, 29802

Business: (803) 649-0000

Home: (803) 215-3631

(O) PO Box 142, Columbia, 29201

Room 608

(803) 212-6000

Email: TomYoung@scsenate.gov

S.C. House of Representatives

House members’ offices are in the Blatt Building, Columbia.

(H) Home district

(O) Columbia office

Terry Alexander [D]

District 59 – Florence Co.

(H) 1646 Harris Court, Florence, 29501

Home: (843) 665-7321

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 314C

(803) 734-3004

Email: TerryAlexander@schouse.gov

Carl L. Anderson [D]

District 103 – Berkeley, Georgetown & Horry Cos.

(H) PO Box 694, Georgetown, 29442

Home: (843) 546-5332

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 304C

(803) 734-2933

Email: CarlAnderson@schouse.gov

Lucas Atkinson [D]

District 57 – Horry, Marion & Williamsburg Cos.

(H) PO Box 1019, Marion, 29571

Business: (843) 423-8237

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 333D

(803) 212-6936

Email: LucasAtkinson@schouse.gov

William H. Bailey [R] District 104 – Horry Co.

(H) 4487 Lake Circle, Little River, 29566 Home: (843) 458-0844

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 420D (803) 212-6918

Email: WilliamBailey@schouse.gov

Nathan Ballentine [R]

District 71 – Lexington & Richland Cos.

(H) 108 Tapp Pointe, Chapin, 29036

Home: (803) 834-4613

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 320B

(803) 734-2969

Email: NathanBallentine@schouse.gov

Justin T. Bamberg [D]

District 90 – Bamberg & Orangeburg Cos.

(H) 4836 Berea Road, Smoaks, 29481

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 335C (803) 212-6907

Email: JustinBamberg@schouse.gov

Bruce W. Bannister [R]

District 24 – Greenville Co.

(H) PO Box 10007, Greenville, 29603

Business: (864) 298-0084

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 525 (803) 734-3144

Email: BruceBannister@schouse.gov

Heather Bauer [D]

District 75 – Richland Co.

(H) PO Box 7714, Columbia, 29202

Home: (803) 563-7560

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 330A (803) 212-6943

Email: HeatherBauer@schouse.gov

Thomas Beach [R]

District 10 – Anderson, Greenville & Pickens Cos.

(H) PO Box 801, Piedmont, 29673

Home: (803) 448-6336

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 306D (803) 212-6931

Email: ThomasBeach@schouse.gov

Beth E. Bernstein [D]

District 78 – Richland Co.

(H) 1019 Assembly St., Columbia, 29201

Business: (803) 799-7900

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 532C (803) 212-6940

Email: BethBernstein@schouse.gov

Bart T. Blackwell [R]

District 81 – Aiken Co.

(H) PO Box 6658, Aiken, 29804

Business: (803) 648-1826

Home: (803) 649-4938

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 416D (803) 212-6884

Email: BartBlackwell@schouse.gov

Jeffrey A. “Jeff” Bradley [R]

District 123 – Beaufort & Jasper Cos.

(H) 304 Seabrook Drive, Hilton Head Island, 29926

Business: (843) 342-6918

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 202 (803) 212-6815

Email: JeffBradley@schouse.gov

Gary S. Brewer Jr. [R]

District 114 – Charleston & Dorchester Cos.

(H) 2329 S. Lander Lane, Charleston, 29414

Home: (843) 609-1308

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 310A (803) 212-6948

Email: GaryBrewer@schouse.gov

Thomas C. “Case” Brittain Jr. [R]

District 107 – Horry Co.

(H) 9329 Cove Drive, Myrtle Beach, 29572

Business: (843) 449-8562

Home: (843) 907-3191

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 522D (803) 212-6727

Email: CaseBrittain@schouse.gov

James Mikell “Mike” Burns [R]

District 17 – Greenville Co.

(H) PO Box 222, Tigerville, 29288

Home: (864) 906-6949

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 326D (803) 212-6891

Email: MikeBurns@schouse.gov

Joseph M. “Joe” Bustos [R]

District 112 – Charleston Co.

(H) 649 King St., Mount Pleasant 29464

Home: (843) 822-6363

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 308A (803) 212-6880

Email: JoeBustos@schouse.gov

Paula Rawl Calhoon [R]

District 87 – Lexington Co.

(H) PO Box 1913, Lexington, 29071

Business: (803) 808-5224

Home: (803) 359-4550

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 308B (803) 212-6924

Email: PaulaCalhoon@schouse.gov

Jerry T. Carter [R]

District 3 – Pickens Co.

(H) 400 Pershing Ave., Clemson, 29631

Home: (864) 207-0493

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 306B (803) 212-6908

Email: JerryCarter@schouse.gov

Micajah P. “Micah” Caskey IV [R]

District 89 – Lexington Co.

(H) 2811 Dalewood Drive, West Columbia, 29170

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 323B (803) 212-6959

Email: MicahCaskey@schouse.gov

Donald G. “Don” Chapman [R]

District 8 – Anderson Co.

(H) 341 Maret Road, Townville, 29689

Home: (864) 940-6676

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211

Room 436D (803) 212-6919

Email: DonChapman@schouse.gov

William M. “Bill” Chumley [R]

District 35 – Greenville & Spartanburg Cos.

(H) PO Box 22, Reidville, 29375

Home: (864) 303-2726

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 326A (803) 212-6894

Email: BillChumley@schouse.gov

William “Bill” Clyburn [D]

District 82 – Aiken, Edgefield & Saluda Cos.

(H) (803) 649-6167

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 416C (803) 734-3033

Email: BillClyburn@schouse.gov

Gilda Cobb-Hunter [D]

District 95 – Dorchester & Orangeburg Cos.

(H) 4188 Five Chop Road, Orangeburg, 29115

Business: (803) 534-2448

Home: (803) 531-1257

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 309C (803) 734-2809

Email: GildaCobbHunter@schouse.gov

Neal A. Collins [R]

District 5 – Greenville & Pickens Cos.

(H) PO Box 906, Easley, 29641

Business: (864) 350-4175

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 418C (803) 212-6913

Email: NealCollins@schouse.gov

J. Benjamin “Ben” Connell [R]

District 52 – Kershaw Co.

(H) 1630 Porter Cross Road, Lugoff, 29078

Home: (843) 513-0087

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 414C (803) 212-6819

Email: BenConnell@schouse.gov

Bobby J. Cox [R]

District 21 – Greenville Co.

(H) 419 The Parkway PMB #128, Greer, 29650

Home: (864) 631-5840

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 312B (803) 212-6883

Email: BobbyCox@schouse.gov

Brandon L. Cox [R]

District 92 – Berkeley Co.

(H) 106 S. Knightsbridge Court, Goose Creek, 29445

Home: (843) 870-7946

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 330D (803) 212-6886

Email: BrandonCox@schouse.gov

Heather Ammons Crawford [R]

District 68 – Horry Co.

(H) PO Box 31385, Myrtle Beach, 29588

Business: (843) 915-5130

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 522B

(803) 212-6933

Email: HeatherCrawford@schouse.gov

April Cromer [R]

District 6 – Anderson Co.

(H) PO Box 1535, Anderson, 29621

Home: (864) 844-1097

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 414A

(803) 212-6887

Email: AprilCromer@schouse.gov

Sylleste H. Davis [R]

District 100 – Berkeley Co.

(H) PO Box 1617, Moncks Corner, 29461

Home: (843) 729-9243

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 425 (803) 734-3046

Email: SyllesteDavis@schouse.gov

Chandra E. Dillard [D]

District 23 – Greenville Co.

(H) 5 Alleta Ave., Greenville, 29607

Business: (864) 294-2503

Home: (864) 233-6549

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 414B (803) 212-6791

Email: ChandraDillard@schouse.gov

Jason Elliott [R]

District 22 – Greenville Co.

(H) 116 E. Montclair Ave., Greenville, 29609

Business: (864) 235-5308

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 312C (803) 212-6877

Email: JasonElliott@schouse.gov

Shannon S. Erickson [R]

District 124 – Beaufort Co.

(H) PO Box 1228, Beaufort, 29901-1228

Business: (843) 255-2260

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 429 (803) 734-3053

Email: ShannonErickson@schouse.gov

R. Raye Felder [R]

District 26 – York Co.

(H) 116 Mary Mack Lane, Fort Mill, 29715

Business: (803) 547-6715

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 402C (803) 212-6892

Email: RayeFelder@schouse.gov

Cally R. “Cal” Forrest [R]

District 39 – Lexington & Saluda Cos.

(H) 137 N. Railroad Ave, Monetta, 29105

Home: (803) 685-5576

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 323C (803) 212-6938

Email: CalForrest@schouse.gov

Craig A. Gagnon [R]

District 11 – Abbeville, Anderson & Laurens Cos.

(H) 504 Church St., Abbeville, 29620

Business: (864) 366-2024

Home: (864) 366-4112

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 436B (803) 212-6934

Email: CraigGagnon@schouse.gov

Kambrell H. Garvin [D]

District 77 – Richland Co.

(H) 1803 Hampton St., Columbia, 29201

Home: (803) 470-3961

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 335D (803) 212-6875

Email: KambrellGarvin@schouse.gov

Gil Gatch [R]

District 94 – Charleston & Dorchester Cos.

(H) PO Box 2160, Summerville, 29484

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 310B (803) 212-6871

Email: GilGatch@schouse.gov

Daniel Gibson [R]

District 12 – Greenwood & McCormick Cos.

(H) 2607 Highway 221 South, Greenwood, 29646

Home: (864) 396-0245

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 314D (803) 212-6814

Email: DanielGibson@schouse.gov

Leon D. “Doug” Gilliam [R]

District 42 – Laurens & Union Cos.

(H) 3347 Buffalo-W. Springs Highway, Buffalo, 29321

Home: (864) 427-5711

Cell: (864) 426-0785

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 420C (803) 212-6968

Email: DougGilliam@schouse.gov

Wendell G. Gilliard [D]

District 111 – Charleston Co.

(H) PO Box 31641, Charleston, 29417

Business: (843) 209-3123

Home: (843) 402-9710

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 328D (803) 212-6793

Email: WendellGilliard@schouse.gov

Thomas Duval “Val” Guest Jr. [R]

District 106 – Horry Co.

(H) 2169 N. Berwick Dr, Myrtle Beach, 29575

Home: (843) 222-4131

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 530A (803) 212-6781

Email: ValGuest@schouse.gov

Brandon Guffey [R]

District 48 – York Co.

(H) PO Box 37561, Rock Hill, 29732

Home: (803) 984-1009

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 304D (803) 212-6888

Email: BrandonGuffey@schouse.gov

Patrick B. Haddon [R]

District 19 – Greenville Co.

(H) PO Box 14884, Greenville, 29610

Business: (864) 320-1946

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211

Room 534 (803) 734-3141

Email: PatrickHaddon@schouse.gov

William Winston “Bill” Hager [R]

District 122 – Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton & Jasper Cos.

(H) 301 Helen St., Hampton, 29924

Home: (803) 346-9576

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211

Room 432D (803) 212-6974

Email: BillHager@schouse.gov

Kevin Hardee [R]

District 105 – Horry Co.

(H) 2082 Cane Branch Road, Loris, 29569

Home: (843) 455-3567

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 404C (803) 212-6796

Email: KevinHardee@schouse.gov

Robert J. “Rob” Harris [R]

District 36 – Spartanburg Co.

(H) 208 Green Road, Wellford, 29385

Home: (610) 392-7358

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 434D (803) 212-6788

Email: RobHarris@schouse.gov

Christopher R. “Chris” Hart [D]

District 73 – Richland Co.

(H) 5219 Burke Ave., Columbia, 29203

Home: (803) 771-7701

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 432B

(803) 734-3061

Email: ChrisHart@schouse.gov

Thomas F. “Tom” Hartnett Jr. [R]

District 110 – Charleston Co.

(H) 822 O’Sullivan Drive, Mt. Pleasant, 29464

Home: (843) 270-2915

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 416A (803) 212-6950

Email: TomHartnett@schouse.gov

Jackie E. “Coach” Hayes [D]

District 55 – Dillon, Horry & Marlboro Cos.

(H) 240 Bermuda Road, Dillon, 29536

Business: (843) 841-3679

Home: (843) 774-6125

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 333C (803) 734-3099

Email: JackieHayes@schouse.gov

Rosalyn D. Henderson-Myers [D]

District 31 – Spartanburg Co.

(H) PO Box 1311, Spartanburg, 29304

Business: (864) 345-2221

Home: (864) 707-5384

Cell: (864) 973-7595

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 530C (803) 212-6965

Email: RosalynHenderson-Myers@schouse.gov

Patricia Moore “Pat” Henegan [D]

District 54 – Chesterfield, Darlington & Marlboro Cos.

(H) PO Box 41, Bennettsville, 29512

Home: (843) 479-7838

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 333B

(803) 212-6896

Email: PatriciaHenegan@schouse.gov

William G. “Bill” Herbkersman [R]

District 118 – Beaufort Co.

(H) PO Box 2120, Bluffton, 29910

Business: (843) 255-2264

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 308C

(803) 734-3063

Email: BillHerbkersman@schouse.gov

Lee Hewitt [R]

District 108 – Charleston & Georgetown Cos.

(H) PO Box 928, Murrells Inlet, 29576

Business: (843) 652-4236

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211

Room 327D (803) 212-6927

Email: LeeHewitt@schouse.gov

David R. Hiott [R]

District 4 – Pickens Co.

(H) PO Box 997, Pickens, 29671

Business: (864) 878-9832

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 518C (803) 734-3138

Email: DavidHiott@schouse.gov

William M. “Bill” Hixon [R]

District 83 – Aiken & Edgefield Cos.

(H) PO Box 7927, North Augusta, 29861

Business: (803) 279-8855

Home: (803) 278-0892

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 411 (803) 734-3022

Email: BillHixon@schouse.gov

Lonnie Hosey [D]

District 91 – Allendale, Barnwell & Orangeburg Cos.

(H) PO Box 423, Barnwell, 29812

Home: (803) 259-1178

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 404B (803) 734-2829

Email: LonnieHosey@schouse.gov

Leon Howard [D]

District 76 – Richland Co.

(H) 2425 Barhamville Road, Columbia, 29204

Business: (803) 254-9468

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 522 (803) 734-3049

Email: LeonHoward@schouse.gov

Max T. Hyde Jr. [R]

District 32 – Spartanburg Co.

(H) 360 East Main St., Suite One, Spartanburg, 29302

Business: (864) 804-6330

Home: (864) 582-1742

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 402B (803) 212-6790

Email: MaxHyde@schouse.gov

Joseph H. Jefferson Jr. [D]

District 102 – Berkeley & Dorchester Cos.

(H) 1375 Colonel Maham Drive, Pineville, 29468

Business: (843) 567-4386

Cell: (803) 991-0519

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 304B

(803) 734-2936

Email: JosephJefferson@schouse.gov

Jeffrey E. “Jeff” Johnson [R]

District 58 – Horry Co.

(H) 1409 Second Avenue, Conway, 29526

Business: (843) 488-5333

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 228 (803) 212-6810

Email: jeffjohnson@schouse.gov

Jermaine L. Johnson Sr. [D]

District 70 – Richland Co.

(H) PO Box 461, Hopkins, 29061

Home: (803) 317-2192

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 330B (803) 212-6818

Email: JermaineJohnson@schouse.gov

Stewart O. Jones [R]

District 14 – Laurens Co.

(H) PO Box 982, Laurens, 29360 Cell: (803) 250-1135

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 420A (803) 212-6713

Email: StewartJones@schouse.gov

Wendell K. Jones [D]

District 25 – Greenville Co.

(H) 510 Piedmont Golf Course Road, Piedmont, 29673

Home: (864) 361-5438

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 414D

(803) 212-6941

Email: WendellJones@schouse.gov

Wallace H. “Jay” Jordan Jr. [R]

District 63 – Florence Co.

(H) 626 W. Evans St., Florence, 29501 Business: (843) 662-4474

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 519B

(803) 734-3114

Email: JayJordan@schouse.gov

John Gregory “Jay” Kilmartin [R]

District 85 – Lexington Co.

(H) 136 Press Lindler Road, Columbia, 29212

Home: (803) 873-8967

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 320A (803) 212-6963

Email: JayKilmartin@schouse.gov

John Richard C. King [D]

District 49 – York Co.

(H) PO Box 11555, Rock Hill, 29731

Home: (803) 980-5454

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 309B (803) 212-6873

Email: JohnKing@schouse.gov

Roger K. Kirby [D]

District 101 – Berkeley, Florence & Williamsburg Cos.

(H) 1690 Johnsonville Highway, Lake City, 29560

Business: (843) 374-7653

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 314B (803) 212-6947

Email: RogerKirby@schouse.gov

Katherine D. “Kathy” Landing [R]

District 80 – Charleston Co.

(H) 2114 Sewee Indian Court, Mt. Pleasant, 29466

Home: (843) 860-3919

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 418A (803) 212-6975

Email: KathyLanding@schouse.gov

M. Brian Lawson [R]

District 30 – Cherokee & Spartanburg Cos.

(H) PO Box 189, Chesnee, 29323

Business: (864) 809-3501

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 418D (803) 212-6885

Email: BrianLawson@schouse.gov

Matthew W. “Matt” Leber [R]

District 116 – Charleston & Colleton Cos.

(H) 3805 Marshfield Road, Johns Island, 29455

Home: (843) 227-1331

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 436A (803) 212-6817

Email: MattLeber@schouse.gov

Thomas R. “Randy” Ligon [R]

District 43 – Chester & York Cos.

(H) PO Box 4815, Rock Hill, 29732

Business: (803) 366-3535

Home: (803) 377-1284

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 306C

(803) 212-6972

Email: RandyLigon@schouse.gov

Steven Wayne Long [R]

District 37 – Spartanburg Co.

(H) PO Box 161944, Boling Springs, 29316

Cell: (864) 978-3104

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 434B (803) 212-6878

Email: StevenLong@schouse.gov

Phillip D. Lowe [R]

District 60 – Florence Co.

(H) 507 West Cheves St., Florence, 29501

Business: (843) 662-1234

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 327B (803) 734-2975

Email: PhillipLowe@schouse.gov

Josiah Magnuson [R]

District 38 – Spartanburg Co.

(H) PO Box 212, Campobello, 29322

Cell: (864) 420-7933

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 434C (803) 212-6876

Email: JosiahMagnuson@schouse.gov

Robert J. “RJ” May III [R]

District 88 – Lexington Co.

(H) PO Box 85924, Lexington, 29073

Home: (803) 470-4482

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 323A

(803) 212-6726

Email: RJMay@schouse.gov

Donald Ryan McCabe Jr. [R]

District 96 – Lexington Co.

(H) 1768 Old Charleston Rd., Lexington, 29073

Business: (803) 724-5005

Home: (803) 530-3084

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 320C

(803) 212-6728

Email: RyanMcCabe@schouse.gov

John R. McCravy III [R]

District 13 – Greenwood & Laurens Cos.

(H) PO Box 50658, Greenwood, 29649

Business: (864) 942-8501

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 420B (803) 212-6939

Email: JohnMcCravy@schouse.gov

Annie E. McDaniel [D]

District 41 – Chester, Fairfield & Richland Cos.

(H) Business: (803) 960-5782

Home: (803) 635-6894

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 330C (803) 212-6789

Email: AnnieMcDaniel@schouse.gov

Timothy A. “Tim” McGinnis [R]

District 56 – Horry Co.

(H) 8476 Juxa Drive, Myrtle Beach, 29579

Cell: (843) 798-7440

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 530D 803-212-6935

Email: TimMcGinnis@schouse.gov

Cody T. Mitchell [R]

District 65 – Chesterfield, Darlington, Kershaw & Lancaster Cos.

(H) PO Drawer 1408, Hartsville, 29550

Home: (803) 427-6487

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 422D (803) 212-6964

Email: CodyMitchell@schouse.gov

JA Moore [D]

District 15 – Berkeley & Charleston Cos.

(H) PO Box 62103, North Charleston, 29419

Business: (843) 640-0130

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 432A (803) 212-6890

Email: JAMoore@schouse.gov

Travis A. Moore [R]

District 33 – Spartanburg Co.

(H) 361 Lancaster Farm Rd., Roebuck, 29376

Home: (864) 680-0441

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 402D (803) 212-6893

Email: TravisMoore@schouse.gov

Adam M. Morgan [R]

District 20 – Greenville Co.

(H) 803 Ikes Road, Taylors, 29687 Business: (864) 517-7068

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 312D (803) 212-6795

Email: AdamMorgan@schouse.gov

T. Alan Morgan [R]

District 18 – Greenville Co.

(H) 116 Calvary St., Greer, 29650

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 312A (803) 212-6881

Email: AlanMorgan@schouse.gov

Dennis C. Moss [R]

District 29 – Cherokee, Spartanburg & York Cos.

(H) 306 Silver Circle, Gaffney, 29340 Business: (864) 761-6353

Home: (864) 487-2121

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 503B (803) 734-3073

Email: DennisMoss@schouse.gov

Chris Murphy [R]

District 98 – Dorchester Co.

(H) 4238 Persimmon Woods Drive, N. Charleston, 29420

Business: (843) 832-1120

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 310C (803) 212-6925

Email: ChrisMurphy@schouse.gov

James M. “Mike” Neese [R]

District 44 – Lancaster Co.

(H) 303 Straightaway Lane, Indian Land, 29707

Home: (704) 497-7944

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 404A (803) 212-6937

Email: MikeNeese@schouse.gov

Brandon Newton [R]

District 45 – Kershaw & Lancaster Cos.

(H) PO Box 2501, Lancaster, 29721

Cell: (803) 320-9615

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 404D

(803) 212-6874

Email: BrandonNewton@schouse.gov

Wm. Weston J. Newton [R]

District 120 – Beaufort & Jasper Cos.

(H) 83 Myrtle Island Road, Bluffton, 29910

Business: (843) 706-6111

Home: (843) 706-3880

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 512 (803) 734-3120

Email: WestonNewton@schouse.gov

Roger A. Nutt [R]

District 34 – Spartanburg Co.

(H) 142 Twin Lakes Drive, Moore, 29369

Home: (864) 706-1557

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 402A (803) 212-6792

Email: RogerNutt@schouse.gov

David L. O’Neal [R]

District 66 – York Co.

(H) 7101 Anchorage Lane, Tega Cay, 29708

Home: (803) 517-2732

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211

Room 306A (803) 212-6967

Email: DavidONeal@schouse.gov

Melissa Lackey Oremus [R]

District 84 – Aiken Co.

(H) PO Box 7047, Aiken, 29804

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 418B (803) 212-6917

Email: MelissaOremus@schouse.gov

Russell L. Ott [D]

District 93 – Calhoun, Lexington & Orangeburg Cos.

(H) 135 Ott Farm Trail, St. Matthews, 29135

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 422C (803) 212-6945

Email: RussellOtt@schouse.gov

Jordan S. Pace [R]

District 117 – Berkeley Co.

(H) PO Box 1814, Goose Creek, 29445

Home: (843) 300-7193

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 434A (803) 212-6879

Email: JordanPace@schouse.gov

Fawn M. Pedalino [R]

District 64 – Clarendon & Sumter Cos.

(H) 1463 Diles Bay Road, Turbeville, 29162

Home: (803) 460-6119

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 314A (803) 212-6929

Email: FawnPedalino@schouse.gov

Marvin R. Pendarvis [D]

District 113 – Charleston Co.

(H) PO Box 60715, North Charleston, 29419

Business: (843) 225-2520

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 328B (803) 212-6716

Email: MarvinPendarvis@schouse.gov

Thomas E. “Tommy” Pope [R]

District 47 – York Co.

(H) PO Box 471, York, 29745

Business: (803) 324-7574

Cell: (803) 984-6616

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 505 (803) 734-2701

Email: TommyPope@schouse.gov

Michael F. Rivers Sr. [D]

District 121 – Beaufort & Colleton Cos.

(H) 734 Seaside Road, St. Helena Island, 29920

Cell: (843) 263-8467

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 432C (803) 212-6952

Email: MichaelRivers@schouse.gov

Robby Robbins [R]

District 97 – Colleton & Dorchester Cos.

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 310D

(803) 212-6973

Email: RobertRobbins@schouse.gov

Seth Rose [D]

District 72 – Richland Co.

(H) 1528 Blanding St., Columbia, 29201

Business: (803) 851-4884

Home: (803) 361-2360

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 532D

(803) 212-6971

Email: SethRose@schouse.gov

J. Todd Rutherford [D]

District 74 – Richland Co.

(H) 1315 Blanding St., Columbia, 29201

Business: (803) 256-3003

Home: (803) 799-8633

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211

Room 335B

(803) 734-9441

Email: ToddRutherford@schouse.gov

William E. “Bill” Sandifer III [R]

District 2 – Oconee & Pickens Cos.

(H) 112 Cardinal Drive, Seneca, 29672

Business: (864) 885-2240

Home: (864) 882-1225

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211

Room 407 (803) 734-3015

Email: HLCIComm@schouse.gov

Carla Schuessler [R]

District 61 – Horry Co.

(H) 1229 38th Ave. N PMB 392, Myrtle Beach, 29577

Home: (843) 222-1358

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211

Room 522A

(803) 212-6926

Email: CarlaSchuessler@schouse.gov

Heath Sessions [R]

District 46 – York Co.

(H) 312 Pendleton St., Rock Hill, 29730

Home: (704) 807-1575

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 304A (803) 212-6780

Email: HeathSessions@schouse.gov

G. Murrell Smith Jr. [R]

District 67 – Sumter Co.

(H) PO Box 580, Sumter, 29151

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 506 (803) 734-3125

Email: MurrellSmith@schouse.gov

Marvin “Mark” Smith [R]

District 99 – Berkeley Co.

(H) 1125 Pinefield Drive, Charleston, 29492

Home: (843) 442-8371

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 327A

(803) 212-6719

Email: MarkSmith@schouse.gov

Leonidas E. “Leon” Stavrinakis [D]

District 119 – Charleston Co.

(H) PO Box 30099, Charleston, 29417

Business: (843) 724-1060

Home: (843) 573-0491

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 532A (803) 734-3039

Email: LeonStav@schouse.gov

Bill Taylor [R]

District 86 – Aiken & Lexington Cos.

(H) PO Box 2646, Aiken, 29802

Business: (803) 270-2012

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 416B (803) 212-6923

Email: BillTaylor@schouse.gov

Deon T. Tedder [D]

District 109 – Charleston & Dorchester Cos.

(H) 2629 Orchid Ave., North Charleston, 29405

Business: (843) 577-5530

Cell: (843) 732-6353

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 328A (803) 212-6721

Email: DeonTedder@schouse.gov

Anne J. Thayer [R]

District 9 – Anderson Co.

(H) 2010 Lindale Road, Anderson, 29621

Business: (864) 940-1696

Home: (864) 224-2919

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 519 (803) 734-3113

Email: AnneThayer@schouse.gov

Ivory Torrey Thigpen [D]

District 79 – Richland Co.

(H) PO Box 291416, Columbia, 29229

Business: (803) 699-8171

Home: (803) 865-8738

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 333A (803) 212-6794

Email: IvoryThigpen@schouse.gov

Ashley B. Trantham [R]

District 28 – Greenville Co.

(H) 305 McKittrick Road, Pelzer, 29669 Business: (864) 704-1058

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 522C (803) 212-6966

Email: AshleyTrantham@schouse.gov

David Vaughan [R]

District 27 – Greenville Co.

(H) PO Box 80008, Simpsonville, 29680

Home: (864) 516-0113

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 326B (803) 212-6779

Email: DavidVaughan@schouse.gov

J. David Weeks [D]

District 51 – Sumter Co.

(H) 2 Marlborough Court, Sumter, 29154

Business: (803) 775-5856

Home: (803) 775-4228

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211

Room 308D (803) 734-3102

Email: DavidWeeks@schouse.gov

John Taliaferro “Jay” West IV [R]

District 7 – Abbeville, Anderson & Greenville Cos.

(H) 402 Brown Ave., Belton, 29627

Business: (864) 260-4025

Cell: (864) 379-1379

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 518B (803) 212-6954

Email: JayWest@schouse.gov

Elizabeth “Spencer” Wetmore [D]

District 115 – Charleston Co.

(H) PO Box 1085, Folly Beach, 29439

Cell: (843) 693-8292

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 422A (803) 212-6872

Email: SpencerWetmore@schouse.gov

William W. “Will” Wheeler III [D]

District 50 – Kershaw, Lee & Sumter Cos.

(H) PO Box 106, Bishopville, 29010

Business: (803) 484-5454

Home: (803) 428-3161

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 422B (803) 212-6958

Email: WillWheeler@schouse.gov

Joseph S. “Joe” White [R]

District 40 – Lexington & Newberry Cos.

(H) 501 Hamms Landing Road, Prosperity, 29127

Home: (803) 429-9423

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 320D (803) 212-6951

Email: JoeWhite@schouse.gov

District 1 – Oconee & Pickens Cos.

(H) PO Box 157, Walhalla, 29691

Business: (864) 638-4237

Home: (864) 638-2970

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 436C (803) 734-3068

Email: BillWhitmire@schouse.gov

Robert Q. Williams [D]

District 62 – Darlington & Florence Cos.

(H) 2512 Holly Circle, Darlington, 29532

Business: (843) 413-2791

Home: (843) 395-9408

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 328C (803) 734-3142

Email: RobertWilliams@schouse.gov

Mark N. Willis [R]

District 16 – Greenville & Laurens Cos.

(H) 201 Quillen Ave., Fountain Inn, 29644

Business: (864) 230-0135

Home: (864) 862-6179

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 326C (803) 212-6882

Email: MarkWillis@schouse.gov

Chris Wooten [R]

District 69 – Lexington Co.

(H) 5347 B Sunset Blvd., Lexington, 29072 Home: (803) 609-1084

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 323D (803) 212-6897

Email: ChrisWooten@schouse.gov

Richard L. “Richie” Yow [R]

District 53 – Chesterfield, Darlington & Lancaster Cos.

(H) 178 Mill St., Chesterfield, 29709

Business: (843) 623-5001

(O) PO Box 11867, Columbia, 29211 Room 327C (803) 212-6949

Email: RichardYow@schouse.gov

State House Clerks

Jeffrey S. Gossett

Clerk of the Senate PO Box 142 Columbia, 29202 (803) 212-6200

Charles F. Reid

Clerk

of

the House PO Box 11867 Columbia, 29211 (803) 734-2403

How to reach your legislators

Writing an email or letter to your legislator is the most effective way to communicate your support, concern or interest in an issue before the General Assembly. As you begin this process, consider the following tips:

1) Take a little extra time to educate yourself on the topic you wish to address.

2) When you write, identify yourself and your status as a constituent.

3) Be specific. Use bill numbers and state your position plainly.

4) Use examples that illustrate how the issue affects your local area.

5) Be respectful. Use appropriate greetings, such as “Dear Senator Smith” or “Dear Representative Jones.”

6) Provide a way for your legislator to respond by including your mailing address or email address.

7) Even if you disagree with a lawmaker’s position, end your correspondence by thanking them for their service.

William R. “Bill” Whitmire [R]

Public Service Commission

The Public Service Commission (PSC) essentially functions as a court for cases involving utilities and other regulated companies. The PSC has broad jurisdiction over matters pertaining to the investor-owned electric and gas utility companies, water and wastewater companies, telecommunications companies, motor carriers of household goods, hazardous waste disposal, and taxicabs.

Utility regulation in South Carolina had its beginning with the passage of an act by the 1878 General Assembly, creating a commission for the purpose of regulating railroads operating within the state. In 1910, the General Assembly established a Public Service Commission, empowering it with the authority to “fix and establish in all cities of the State rates and charges for the supply of water, gas or electricity furnished by any person, firm or corporation to such cities, the inhabitants thereof, and to proscribe penalties.” In 2005, the PSC began operating as a restructured, quasi-judicial body, as prescribed by Act 175 of 2004. Under the new law, the PSC’s principal duty is to hear cases involving the state’s regulated utilities, while the Office of Regulatory Staff is responsible for many of the non-adjudicative functions associated with utility regulation.

A joint session of the General Assembly elects the PSC for a term of four years, with one commissioner from each of the seven congressional districts. The PSC’s staff is composed of the Administrative Staff, Advisory Staff, Docketing Staff and Legal Staff.

CONTACT

(803) 896-5100

Email: contact@psc.sc.gov

Website: psc.sc.gov

LOCATION

Synergy Business Park

Saluda Building

101 Executive Center Drive Suite 100 Columbia, 29210

CLERK’S OFFICE

Jocelyn Boyd Chief Clerk/Administrator (803) 896-5114

Jocelyn.Boyd@psc.sc.gov

LEGAL DEPARTMENT

Jo Anne Wessinger-Hill General Counsel

JoAnne.Hill@psc.sc.gov

PUBLIC INFORMATION

Rob Bockman

Public Information Director (803) 896-5142

Robert.Bockman@psc.sc.gov

COMMISSIONERS

Florence P. Belser

Chair

DISTRICT 2

Delton W. Powers Jr.

Vice Chair

DISTRICT 7

Carolyn “Carolee” L. Williams

DISTRICT 1

Stephen “Mike” Caston

DISTRICT 3

Thomas J. “Tom” Ervin

DISTRICT 4

Headen B. Thomas

DISTRICT 5

Justin T. Williams

DISTRICT 6

Office of Regulatory Staff

The Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS) represents the public interest of South Carolina in utility regulation. The agency fulfills its mission by representing the concerns of the using and consuming public with respect to public utility services and preservation of continued investment in and maintenance of utility facilities so as to provide reliable and high quality utility services.

Act 175 of 2004 created the ORS as a part of an initiative to provide a revised structure for addressing the public interest in utility regulation. This revised structure clearly separates the adjudicative function—which belongs to the Public Service Commission of South Carolina (PSC)—from the investigative, legal, prosecutorial and educational roles necessary for utility regulation. Specifically, the ORS has sole responsibility for the inspection, auditing, and examination of public utilities. The agency must be considered a party of record in all filings, applications or proceedings before the PSC.

The utilities and industries that fall under the regulatory purview of the ORS are as follows: telecommunications, investor-owned electric, natural gas, water/wastewater and transportation.

The ORS has responsibility for oversight of railroad safety and natural gas pipeline safety in South Carolina, as well as limited oversight authority over electric cooperatives and municipal systems. Further, the South Carolina Utilities Consumer Advocate, housed in Consumer Affairs, is responsible for monitoring South Carolina utilities as well as representing and providing protection for the ratepayer. The Energy Office, the principal energy-planning entity for the state, became part of the ORS in 2015.

South Carolina’s Broadband Office, which is a part of the ORS, is the central broadband planning body for South Carolina and coordinates with federal, state, regional, local, and private entities to encourage the development of access to broadband. The Broadband Office also serves as a central resource to collect and publish information about state and federal programs to fund broadband expansion.

The agency is organized as follows:

u Administration

u Auditing

u Broadband

u Consumer Affairs

u Energy Policy

u Human Resources

u Information Services

u Legal

u Safety, Transportation, and Emergency Response

u Telecommunications

u Utility Rates & Services

CONTACT

General information: (803) 737-0800

Website: ors.sc.gov

CONSUMER COMPLAINTS AND INQUIRIES

In Columbia: (803) 737-5230

Toll-free within South Carolina: (800) 922-1531

LOCATION 1401 Main St., Suite 900 Columbia, 29201

Nanette S. Edwards Executive Director (803) 737-0575 NEdwards@ors.sc.gov

Spirit meets metal

BY HASTINGS HENSEL | PHOTOS BY JOHN GILLESPIE

SMITH, FOR GOOD REASON, is the most common last name in the United States. To be a smith is to make a useful thing out of metal, and we were once a nation of such artisans blacksmiths, silversmiths, coppersmiths, coinsmiths, bladesmiths.

So, when you sign up for a metalsmithing class with Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative member Joy Spirithawk Evans, and you step into her studio that’s tucked in the woods between Pickens and Pumpkintown, it feels very much like stepping back in time. (Forgive that cliché from a “wordsmith,” but it’s true.) Handmade tools and handmade jewelry adorn the wood cabin built by Evans and her husband, an artisan who makes museum-worthy flintlock rifles.

“How I teach here is the old way,” she tells me as I try my hand at metalsmithing for the first time. “We use hand tools. Right here you see an anvil on a stump with hammers all around it. That’s the old way it’s been used for hundreds of years.”

Evans is half-Cherokee. The name Spirithawk was bestowed upon her by her chief, and she teaches Native American Studies classes at nearby Hagood Mill Historic Site. For her, metalsmithing is not only a useful practice, but it also harkens back to when the Cherokee would forge copper armbands

GET THERE

To sign up for classes, call Joy Spirithawk Evans at (864) 417-7363 or email spirithawkjewelry@gmail.com. Evans offers beginners classes for $75 per person, per session. The studio is located a few miles outside of Pickens. For more details, visit spirithawkjewelry.com.

for religious ceremonies. It’s also why, 25 years ago, she left her sign-and-design business in Greenville and moved to the mountains to metalsmith full time.

“I always loved the Cherokee side of my family, of course, and that type of jew-

elry. This was really my love, my passion,” she says. “I just decided, ‘I can do that.’ ”

On the day of my visit, Evans begins by showing me the basic tools. Jeweler saws for cutting out my design. Files for smoothing it down and sharpening the edges. Hammers for stamping the piece with decoration. Then she takes out three pieces of flat metal copper, silver, and brass and asks me what I’d like to work with and what I might want to make.

I decide to make a kayak paddle necklace out of copper a simple design that symbolizes moving forward with balance. She hands me a sheaf of graph paper, and I begin drawing my outline. This becomes the pattern I trace as I cut my design on a piece of flat copper.

Evans lets me work as she helps situate the other student in today’s class, Debra Jarrett, who runs a booth in the

Charleston City Market and has returned to work with Evans for a second session.

“I’ve been dabbling in metalsmithing for a few years now, and I came to know Joy last year when my daughters and I rented an Airbnb in Greenville,” Jarrett says. “Her site came up as ‘Things To Do While Visiting Greenville.’ ”

Jarrett is referring to the Airbnb Experiences tours, classes, and excursions hosted by locals near rental properties. Evans says that she gets most of her students this way and many return for longer workshops and extended sessions.

While I saw and file away, Evans is patiently instructive. From time to time, she comes over and offers me advice to hold the tool at a certain angle, for instance, or to remember to stay close to the bench vise. Later minutes? hours? I realize that I’ve fallen into a kind of hypnotic, concentrated trance while smithing my metal.

“It’s called ‘getting into the zone,’ ” Evans tells me. “It’s a beautiful place to be because it takes away every other thought and every worry and desire. You’re just focused on what you’re creating. That’s what we strive for.”

SHARING HER PASSION Metalsmith Joy Spirithawk Evans encourages student Debra Jarrett of Charleston, who’s returned to the cabin studio in the woods for her second session.

AFFORDABLE LIFE INSURANCE

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Premiums illustrated represent 10 year level term insurance with guaranteed level premiums for 10 years. $100,000 - $1,000,000 rates are Select-A-Term [policy form no. 07007] Preferred Plus Non-tobacco. This coverage features a level death benefit with fully guaranteed level premiums for the first 10 years with coverage to expire at age 95. The policy may be continued on Annual Renewable Term at the end of the level premium period without evidence of insurability until the anniversary nearest the insured’s 95th birthday. The underwriting risks, financial and contractual obligations and support functions associated with products issued by American General Life Insurance Company (AGL) Houston, TX are its responsibility. AGL does not solicit business in the state of New York. All terms, conditions and limitations of any policy issued shall govern. American General Life Companies is the marketing name for a group of domestic life insurers including American General Life Insurance Company and The United States Life Insurance Company in the City of New York. Policies and riders not available in all states. Premium rates current as of December 2022; rates may vary by state. Premiums available for other rate classes, ages and payment plans. Premium charges depend on evidence of insurability. Premiums increase at the end of the guaranteed term if policy is renewed. Death benefit remains level. The policy may be contested for two years from the date of issue for material misstatements or omissions on the application. Death benefit is limited to return of premium paid in the event of suicide within first two years. Rates subject to change. Standard Marketing Services represents AGL and other fine insurance companies.

All companies identified above are wholly owned subsidiaries of Corebridge Financial, Inc. Corebridge Financial and Corebridge are marketing names used by subsidiaries of Corebridge Financial, Inc.

Give leftover pot roast a new life

BY BELINDA SMITH‑SULLIVAN

VEGETABLE BEEF SOUP

SERVES 8

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 medium onions, diced

Who doesn’t like pot roast—one of the staples of American Sunday dinners? Use these recipes to turn the leftovers into tasty meals you can enjoy all week.

4 celery stalks, halved lengthwise and sliced diagonally

3 large carrots, halved lengthwise and sliced diagonally

½ pound fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-size pieces

2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced

2 large garlic cloves, minced

3–4 cups leftover pot roast, shredded or diced

4 cups beef stock

1 6-ounce can tomato paste

1 15-ounce can fire-roasted diced tomatoes

Kosher salt

Fresh ground black pepper

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

2 sprigs fresh rosemary

3–4 sprigs fresh thyme

In a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat, add oil. Add onions, celery and carrots and sauté for 8–10 minutes or until soft. Stir in green beans, potatoes and garlic and sauté for an additional 3 minutes. Add pot roast, stock, tomato paste, tomatoes, salt, black pepper and Worcestershire. Stir well to combine ingredients. Using kitchen twine, tie herbs together and place on top of the soup mixture. Bring to a boil. Lower heat, cover and simmer for 45 minutes.

CHEF’S

INDIVIDUAL BEEF POT PIES

SERVES 6-8 (DEPENDING ON SIZE OF RAMEKINS)

¼ cup unsalted butter

¼ cup all-purpose flour

BEEF-STUFFED BAKED POTATOES

SERVES 4

4 large russet potatoes

Olive oil

8 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 cups leftover pot roast, warmed Shredded cheese, Monterey jack or cheddar Sliced scallions

Sour cream, optional

Preheat oven to 425 F. Using a fork, prick the potatoes on all sides. Coat with olive oil or vegetable spray. Wrap in a small piece of foil and close ends. Bake for 1 hour or until soft when squeezed. Cut each potato in half horizontally, without cutting all the way through, and add 2 tablespoons of butter to each. Divide the pot roast between the potatoes and top with cheese, scallions and sour cream.

2 cups beef stock

1 cup whole milk

Kosher salt

Fresh ground black pepper

1½ teaspoons dried oregano

1 cup frozen corn kernels

1 cup frozen peas

1 large russet potato, peeled and diced

1 cup diced carrots

1 cup chopped celery

1 cup diced onions

3 cups shredded pot roast

3–4 pie crusts, store-bought or homemade (or puff pastry)

1 egg, whisked for egg wash (or ¼ cup milk)

Preheat oven to 375 F. In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt butter. Add flour and whisk until lumps are gone and mixture is the consistency of wet sand, 1–2 minutes. Add stock, milk, salt, pepper and oregano. Lower heat slightly and simmer until thickened, 6–8 minutes. Add corn, peas, potatoes, carrots, celery, onions and beef. Mix well and bring to a slight boil. Lower heat and simmer for 30 minutes until vegetables are tender.

What’s cooking at SCLiving.coop/food/chefbelinda

NEVER LET LEFTOVERS GO TO WASTE. Don’t miss Chef Belinda’s Cheesy Beef Empanadas (above). Plus, get more of our chef’s clever recipes and tips in “Two-for-one dinners.”

Lightly spray ramekins with vegetable oil. Cut pie crusts into circles (or whatever shape ramekins you have) slightly larger than the tops of ramekins. Divide the beef mixture evenly between each ramekin. Cover tops with the rounds. Make 2–3 slits in the top of each crust to allow heat to vent. Place the ramekins on a shallow baking sheet, brush the tops with egg wash and bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.

GWÉNAËL LE VOT

MICHAEL PHILLIPS

KAREN HERMANN

TIP Remember that cooked roast will already be well-seasoned. Be sure to taste before adding additional salt.

FEBRUARY IN THE GARDEN

n Reset loose stones or bricks on steps and pathways, clear off dead annual vines on fences and trellises, straighten sagging bed borders, repaint faded birdhouses, oil that creaky gate—basically, channel your inner handyman this month to prepare the garden for spring.

n Dormant bare-root roses, which can be planted in the late winter, should be available now at local garden centers. Ideally, plant such roses as soon as possible after purchasing, but give the roots a beneficial hydration session in a bucket of water for at least half a day before adding them to well-draining, sunny sites.

Redbuds in the Dark

BY L.A. JACKSON

WHO DOESN’T LOVE A REDBUD (Cercis canadensis) in early spring? After a winter’s worth of bare branches, this small tree curtly decides it has had enough of looking less than lovely and erupts into a cheerful cloud of small blooms varying in shades of pleasing pink to sassy purple (or even white), depending on the cultivar.

Following their floral salute to the new spring, however, faded flowers give way to green foliage plain, ho-hum green foliage. This is not to say the heart-shaped leaves aren’t interesting to look at, it’s just that they mature to the same verdant hues of many other trees

TIP OF THE MONTH Worried

the

somber

hues of a dark redbud might muddy up your plans for a bright, cheerful garden? Well, you’re in luck because there are also variegated redbuds that go lightly (literally) into the summer season with leaves looking like they were impishly splattered by white paint. Alley Cat is a prime cultivar example, but it is a biggie (over 20 feet tall and wide) redbud, so be sure to give it plenty of room. Looking for little? Try Whitewater, a weeping selection that restrains itself to about 6 to 8 feet high and wide.

in the landscape, so the redbud fades away into the natural surroundings.

This tale of glory to ordinary is true for most redbuds, but there are cultivars that refuse to be ignored during the spring season. These are redbuds that skip common, ho-hum green coverings and instead smolder darkly in hues that dip into the realm of deep purple and burgundy.

Redbuds dusted with darkness will stand out in the new spring garden because they poke playful shadows into any landscape scheme overdone with green. And guess what? These dusky delights aren’t that rare in the retail garden trade, either locally or online.

Forest Pansy, one of the more common cultivars of the uncommon dark-leaf redbuds, will grow to around 20 feet tall and about as wide. If you are looking for less spread, Merlot and Black Pearl restrain themselves to about 15 feet high and wide. For a real shorty, try Ruby Falls, which only tops out

at 6 feet tall and, as a bonus, has an unusual weeping habit.

Keep in mind that, while dark redbuds usually cruise through the spring season in their smoldering hues, incessant summer sun and heat can eventually lighten their leaves to an off-bronze or smoky green.

Redbud is a tough, deer-resistant North American native that can stand a wide range of soil types, excluding soggy, boggy conditions. It flowers best in full sun, but some afternoon shade will help most dusky redbuds retain their coloration longer.

If you plant a redbud this month (which is a good time), be sure to water your newbie regularly during its first year to help it become established in the landscape. Adding a layer of mulch that extends out to the drip line will also help settle in any selection of redbud you desire from the dark side.

L.A. JACKSON

is the former editor of Carolina Gardener magazine. Contact him at lajackson1@gmail.com.

L.A. JACKSON

GEM OF A TREE A cascade of purple leaves from a Ruby Falls redbud will liven up the landscape.

SPLASH OF INTRIGUE Delightful white splatters can be found on variegated redbuds such as Whitewater.

L.A. JACKSON

There are redbud cultivars that refuse to be ignored during the spring season.

The Solunar forecast provides feeding and migration times. Major periods can bracket the peak by more than an hour, minor periods by a half-hour before and after.

Upstate

FEBRUARY

17 Spartanburg Philharmonic presents Oolong Notes, Chapman Cultural Center, Spartanburg. spartanburgphilharmonic.org.

17–19 Reedy Reels Film Festival, South Carolina Children’s Theatre, Greenville. reedyreels.com.

17–19 Upstate SC Coin Show, Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium, Spartanburg. upstatesccoinshow.com.

18 Deep Winter Blues, Hagood Mill Historic Site, Pickens. (864) 898‑2936 or hagoodmillhistoricsite.com.

20 Great Backyard Bird Count, Table Rock State Park, Pickens. (864) 878‑9813.

23 Gladys Knight, Peace Center Concert Hall, Greenville. (864) 467‑3030 or peacecenter.org.

24–26 Southern Home & Garden Show, Greenville Convention Center, Greenville. southernhomeandgardenshow.com.

25 Buddy Jewell, Abbeville Opera House, Abbeville. (864) 366‑9673.

25 Fox Squirrel 5K, Sadlers Creek State Park, Anderson. (864) 226‑8950.

MARCH

3–12 To Kill A Mockingbird, Spartanburg Little Theatre, Spartanburg. (864) 542‑2787 or spartanburglittletheatre.com.

4 Interstellar Echoes: #1 Pink Floyd Tribute, Abbeville Opera House, Abbeville. (864) 366‑9673.

7 Jazz at Lincoln Center presents “Songs We Love,” Brooks Center for the Performing Arts, Clemson. (864) 656‑7787.

9–April 2 Singing in the Rain, Centre Stage, Greenville. (864) 233‑6733 or centrestage.org.

10–April 2 The Legend of Georgia McBride, The Warehouse Theatre, Greenville. (864) 235‑6948 or warehousetheatre.com.

25–26 Greenville Symphony Orchestra presents “Rachmaninoff Rhapsody,” Peace Center Concert Hall, Greenville. (864) 467‑3030 or peacecenter.org.

ONGOING

Fridays & Saturdays  Self‑Guided Tour, Split Creek Farm, Anderson. (864) 287‑3921 or facebook.com/splitcreekfarm.

Saturdays Small Vendor Saturday, Greenville State Farmers Market, Greenville. (864) 244‑4023 or facebook.com/gvlmarket.

SCLiving.coop/calendar

Our mobile-friendly site lists even more festivals, shows and events. You’ll also find instructions on submitting your event. Please confirm information with the hosting event before attending.

Through March 17 Friday Starry Nights Magic Tree House: Space Mission, Roper Mountain Science Center, Greenville. ropermountain.org.

Midlands

FEBRUARY

17 Aiken Master Gardener Lunch, Millbrook Baptist Church, Aiken. aikenmastergardeners.org.

17 Focal Points Tour: That’s Presidential! Columbia Museum of Art, Columbia. (803) 799‑2810 or columbiamuseum.org.

17–25 The Lion, The Witch, And The Wardrobe, Aiken Community Theatre, Aiken. (803) 648‑1438 or aikencommunitytheatre.org.

18 2023 Winter Stamp and Postcard Show, Spring Valley High School, Columbia. sefsc.org.

19 Lexington Chili Cookoff, Icehouse Amphitheater, Lexington. (803) 358‑7275 or icehouseamphitheater.com.

21 Newberry College Music Honors Recital, Newberry Opera House, Newberry. (803) 276‑6264 or newberryoperahouse.com.

23–26 University of South Carolina Department of Theatre and Dance presents 10 Minute Play Festival, Booker T. Washington Building Lab Theatre, Columbia. (803) 777‑5208.

23–March 12 Death By Design, Chapin Theatre, Chapin. (803) 404‑0015 or chapintheatre.org.

24 “Rice Culture in South Carolina, Present and Past,” presented by Amanda McNulty, USC‑Lancaster Native American Studies Center, Lancaster. (803) 313‑7172.

24–26 Battle of Aiken, 1210 Powell Pond Road, Aiken. battleofaiken.com.

25 17th Annual Joy of Gardening Symposium, Gateway Conference Center, Rock Hill. symposium@yorkmg.org.

MARCH

3–5 Craftmen’s Classic Art & Craft Festival, South Carolina State Fair Grounds, Columbia. (803) 799‑3387.

3–7 Bye Bye Birdie, University of South Carolina Lancaster Bundy Auditorium, Lancaster. (803) 416‑6183 or lancasterplayhouse.com.

4 Irish Fest Camden, Historic Camden Revolutionary War Park, Camden. irishfestcamden.com.

4 James Gregory, Newberry Opera House, Newberry. (803) 276‑6264 or newberryoperahouse.com.

11 Cottontown Art Crawl, downtown, Columbia. facebook.com/ groups/cottontownartcrawl.

24–26 Palmetto Sportsmen’s Classic, South Carolina State Fair Grounds, Columbia. (803) 799‑3387 or psclassic.com.

25 South Carolina Model Train Show, Jamil Shrine Temple, Columbia. (803) 772‑9380.

25 Midlands KidFest & Camp Fair, Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, Columbia. (803) 545‑0181.

30–April 2 Tartan Day South Highland Games & Celtic Festival, Historic Columbia Speedway, Cayce. tartandaysouth.com.

31 Arts & Draughts, Columbia Museum of Art, Columbia. (803) 799‑2810 or columbiamuseum.org.

31–April 2 Columbia Home & Landscape Expo, Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, Columbia. (803) 545‑0181.

ONGOING

Through April 30 Dream Home: Illustrations by Vernon Grant, Museum of York County, Rock Hill. (803) 329‑2121 or chmuseums.org/myco.

Lowcountry

FEBRUARY

15 Lowcountry Christian Women’s Connection Luncheon “Jazz it Up,” Hampton Hall, Bluffton. (843) 705‑7604.

17–18 Palmetto Destruction Demolition Derby, Florence Center, Florence. (864) 679‑4525 or florencecenter.com.

17–19 Southeastern Wildlife Exposition, various venues, Charleston. (843) 723‑1748 or sewe.com.

18–19 American Heritage Festival, Graham’s Farm, Lake City. theamericanheritagefestival.com.

19 Gullah Market: Arts, Crafts, Music and Food, Coastal Discovery Museum, Hilton Head Island. (843) 255‑7303 or gullahcelebration.com.

20–26 Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival, multiple sites, Hilton Head Island. hiltonheadseafoodfestival.com.

21–26 Beaufort International Film Festival, The Beaufort Inn, Beaufort. (843) 522‑3196 or beaufortfilmfestival.com.

22 Winter Parrot Head Fest, La Belle Amie, Little River. (843) 399‑9463.

25 American Legion Post 42 Oyster Roast, Jarvis Creek Park, Hilton Head Island. (404) 784‑2077.

25 New ‘Awlins A Night on Bourbon St., Charleston Music Hall, Charleston. (843) 641‑0011 or charlestonjazz.com.

25 Sea & Sand Festival, Center Street, Folly Beach. visitfolly.com.

MARCH

1–5 Charleston Wine + Food Festival, various venues, Charleston. charlestonwineandfood.com.

2–3 Celtic Thunder’s Emmet Cahill, Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, Hilton Head Island. (843) 686‑3945 or artshhi.com.

2–5 Maison Beaufort, Tabby Place, Beaufort. maisonbeaufort.org.

3 World Affairs Council of Hilton Head presents “Israel: Post Netenyahu,” First Presbyterian Church, Hilton Head Island. (843) 384‑6758 or wachh.org/event 4791336.

3–4 Myrtle Beach Marathon, Robert Grissom Parkway, Myrtle Beach. capstoneraces.com/ myrtle beach marathon.

4 Bluegrass Concert, Grand Old Post Office, Darlington. (843) 496‑4088.

4 Front Beach Fest, Front Beach, Isle of Palms. iop.net.

4 The Myrtle Beach State Park Nature Challenge, Myrtle Beach State Park, Myrtle Beach. (843) 238‑0874.

4 Wellness Fun Run & Walk 5K, downtown, Beaufort. (843) 521‑4145 or uscbcenterforthearts.com.

4 Where the Wild Things Run 5K, Caw Caw Interpretive Center, Ravenel. (843) 762‑8015.

8–26 Native Gardens, The Historic Dock Street Theatre, Charleston. (843) 577‑7183 or charlestononstage.com.

10–18 Plaza Suite, Florence Little Theatre, Florence. (843) 662‑3731 or florencelittletheatre.org.

11 Art of Indigo Dyeing Workshop, Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage, Ridgeland. (843) 284‑9227 or morrisheritagecenter.org.

11 Low Country Pow Wow and Cultural Festival, Mill Stone Landing, Hardeeville. (843) 384‑5551.

11 St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival, Main Street, North Myrtle Beach. (843) 280‑5570.

11–12 Hilton Head Irishfest, Lowcountry Celebration Park, Hilton Head. hiltonheadireland.org.

13–18 Hilton Head International Piano Competition, various locations, Hilton Head Island. (843) 842‑5880 or hhipc.org.

ONGOING

Wednesdays Awendaw Green Barn Jam, Sewee Outpost, Awendaw. (843) 452‑1642 or awendawgreen.com.

Trombonist Wycliffe Gordon joins the Charleston Jazz Orchestra on Feb. 25 for an evening of “New ‘Awlins—A Night on Bourbon St.” at the Charleston Music Hall.

50 shades of crimson

BY JAN A. IGOE

BEING AS THIS MONTH’S holidays were inspired by a skittish rodent and an airborne cherub who attacks random strangers with arrows, I’m sticking with Christmas stories.

Once upon a time, I understood what children wanted. Purple dinosaurs, kids from a cabbage patch, bears that care, and hippos that are always hungry. I could grasp those things. But lately, as karma would have it, I’ve become my father.

Every Christmas, toy construction was relegated to my dad. Not because he had any engineering skill (he didn’t), but elf duty and the barbecue grill were assigned by gender.

One Christmas morning, my baby brother Tommy opened the over-hyped airplane toy that every little boy wanted. Commercials made it look like an Air Base at DEFCON 1 prepping for nuclear war. But inside the box were a few cardboard airplanes (that needed folding), designed to “fly” on strings carefully draped across the living room. Still, my brother was thrilled to sit on the sofa next to his mechanically doomed dad and wait for the chintzy planes to be mounted on their assigned strings. Adjusting his glasses and muttering to himself, Dad struggled with the flimsy parts but refused female help.

Just as the planes were finally ready to launch, the phone rang.

My brother, having inherited the family attention span of a gnat, jumped up to answer it, tripping over the carefully laid strings and crashing every plane on his way. Our sweet, mild-mannered dad turned 50 shades of crimson while I lost it. “Keep laughing,” he

hissed. “Someday you’ll be walking in my slippers.”

Dad collected himself, swallowed his intense frustration and directed Tommy to sit on the other side of the sofa where the phone was, lest it ring again. Then, our flustered father went back to work, patiently untangling the strings and repairing the planes. With his mechanical shortcomings on full display and martini time still 10 hours away, he was visibly suffering.

After about 30 minutes of unknotting and repairs, the planes were ready to take flight across the living room again. But just as the countdown began, the doorbell rang. Of course, Tommy shot off the couch, crashing through the planes and strings, to answer it.

This time, Dad was fresh out of

patience. I quickly muffled myself in the nearest pillow while he locked himself in the bathroom to recuperate. My baffled brother surveyed the wreckage while I continued smothering my insensitive, hysterical self.

Now, a few heartbeats later, it’s my turn to please my grandkids with toys I’ve never heard of and names I can’t pronounce. My daughter had to spell them out a few times before the syllables made sense.

“They want a bag of what?” I asked.

“It’s Bakugan, Mom,” she sighed. “Bravo, alpha, kilo …”

While I was still dipping my toe in Pokémon, Bakugan took over. Not only is it a hit TV show, it’s also a board game with more than 200 belligerent plastic balls that morph into warriors ready for battle. You’ll need a college-level course to keep all the characters and battles straight; to distinguish Dragonoids from Gargons; to memorize the rules and become fluent in Bakugan history. Here’s a typical excerpt from Bakugan Wiki:

“In  Evil Arrival, Spatterix was seen with Stronk and the other Nonet Bakugan telling the rogue Mechtogan Coredegon, Slycerak, Exostriker, and Mandibor that they overestimate their abilities.”

Yikes. Now that karma has gotten around to me, I can almost hear my dad laughing as I adjust my glasses and mutter to myself. No, it’s not easy to fill his slippers, but I look better in crimson.

JAN A. IGOE hopes you enjoy Groundhog Day and steer clear of Cupid and his arrows. Join us at HumorMe@SCLiving.coop any time.

Dad turned 50 shades of crimson while I lost it.

“Keep laughing,” he hissed. “Someday you’ll be walking in my slippers.”

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