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The Greer Citizen

SOUTH CAROLINA’S PREMIER WEEKLY WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2022

2023 ES TA BL ISH

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GREER, SOUTH CAROLINA VOL. 109 NO. 48 $1.00

Allison chosen as Greer Parade Grand Marshall Events set this weekend BY KAELYN CASHMAN STAFF WRITER The City of Greer will kick off the Christmas season this coming weekend. A Tree Lighting on Friday evening will be followed by a number of activities leading up to the annual Greer Christmas Parade on Sunday, Dec. 4. From 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., A Toyland Christmas

Cops for Tots receives record donation BY KAELYN CASHMAN STAFF WRITER The City of Greer Police Department’s annual Cops for Tots program has received the largest single donation in its history. City Administrator Andy Merriman announced the donation to Greer City Council during their regular November 22 meeting. “We have real good news for the Cops for Tots program,” Merriman said. “I’m very excited to tell you all this. “The Cops for Tots program has received its largest donation in its history from Hyundai, Kia, Nissan and Toyota dealerships in Greer,” he said. The $20,000 donation surpassed the previous largest single donation of $6,000. SEE DONATION | A5

Rita Allison themed parade will travel the 1.1-mile parade route starting at Poinsett Street

and Memorial Drive and ending at N. Main St. and Cunningham Dr. with festive holiday floats, marching bands, fire trucks, and a visit from Mrs. Claus and Santa. Former State Representative Rita Allison will preside over the parade as Grand Marshall. She served as SC State Representative for 10 years, was an eightyear elected member of the District Five Spartanburg County School Board, served over five years with Governor Sanford in the Executive Branch, and

served 10 years with the Commission on Higher Education. She was awarded the prestigious Order of the Palmetto in 2002, the highest civilian award given in South Carolina. “With all the new additions to the Greer community, we will have one of the most exciting parades with one of the largest turnouts since before the pandemic,” said Caroline Robertson, Executive Director of Greer Relief. Judging this year’s parade will be Scott Harke from Greer Relief’s Board

of Directors, Christine Scarpelli from News Channel 7, and Alex Moore, VP of Brand Experience at the United Way of the Piedmont. During the parade, Greer Relief is hosting its second Christmas Toy Drive this year with multiple donation boxes along the parade route. All donations will be used to stock Greer Relief’s Christmas Morning Shoppe for those in need this holiday season. The Sensory Safe Zone will be available again for those who would like to

Community rallies to help family Rebuild after Thanksgiving week fire BY KAELYN CASHMAN STAFF WRITER A gofundme page has been created for the Smith family following a recent tragedy. On November 20—the Sunday before Thanksgiving—the day began like any other before a fire engulfed the Smiths’ home with no injuries to mom, Wendy, or any of her four children, Whitney, Gracie, Laynie and Tug, who watched their home burn down in minutes. “We had gotten up and gone to church, then, went and grabbed lunch,” said Wendy Smith. “Then, we came home to let our dog out, and I realized that I needed a birthday card for a friend, so I ran up to CVS, just five minutes away.” Before leaving, Smith

PHOTO | SUBMITTED

The Smith family’s Greer home was completely destroyed by fire on Nov. 20. told her 13-year-old daughter Laynie and her friend to park the four-wheeler, which hadn’t been ridden in a while. “They’re not allowed to ride when I’m not home,” Smith said. “It has to be parked back where it’s supposed to be because I don’t want them just sit-

ting out in the driveway for people to back up and back over and whatnot.” While her mom ran the errand, Laynie put the four-wheeler back under the back deck, which had just been stained within the last month or two. “I was gone maybe a total of 10 minutes,” Smith

PHOTO | SUBMITTED

The Smith family: Whitney, Wendy, Tug, Gracie, and Laynie. said. “I prepared to buy the second card that I read; I was at the register and got the call from Gracie.” “Her words were, ‘Our

house is on fire, and it’s gone,’” she said. “I’ve never driven that fast before; I made it home before the fire trucks got there. It SEE FIRE | A3

Housing sites move forward

District names new school

After GPC meeting

Tyger River Elementary

BY MACY COCHRAN STAFF WRITER

BY KAELYN CASHMAN STAFF WRITER

PRESTON BURCH | THE GREER CITIZEN

Spartanburg District Five’s newest elementary school now has a name. The district’s Board of Trustees voted last Monday, Nov. 21, to name the new school off Highway 29 in Duncan: Tyger River Elementary School. The school will be home to students in kindergarten through fifth grade. The naming process included getting input from stakeholders at nearby Duncan and Lyman elementary schools, which will be impacted by the opening of the new campus. SEE SCHOOL | A5

INDEX

watch the parade without the sensory overload of loud noises and vibrations. This zone will be on Poinsett St. and will stretch for a block along the parade route between Memorial Dr. and Hubert St. Parade entries are asked to refrain from revving their engines, using sirens, air horns, and car horns along this portion of the parade route. The public is encouraged to stand in the Sensory Safe Zone but are asked to be respectful and supportive of this unique space.

The Anderson family volunteered to serve Thanksgiving dinner at the Greer Soup Kitchen on Thursday.

Churches, family volunteer holiday To feed the hungry BY MACY COCHRAN STAFF WRITER Daily Bread Ministries’ Greer Soup Kitchen serves the Greer community each Thanksgiving by feeding the hungry a warm holiday meal.

 | OBITUARIES

CLASSIFIEDS B4 COMMUNITY NEWS A2 EDUCATION B8 ENTERTAINMENT B6 OBITUARIES A5 OPINION A4 SPORTS B1

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Laura J. Heise, 65 Margaret Louise E. Evans, 84 Christine K. Queen, 84 Ott Sizemore, 69 Mamon Walker, 85

Martha Bennett, director of the soup kitchen, said pastor Reggie Garrett at Jubilee Baptist Church organizes a group of volunteers from the church to serve the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. For the past five years, Jubilee Baptist Church members have served that day at the soup kitchen. Garrett is a past board member of the soup kitch-

en and facilitator for the STEP program. On Thanksgiving Day, the Anderson family provides a traditional holiday meal, consisting of turkey, dressing, gravy, and more. The following day, Aiken Chapel serves at the soup kitchen. Each of these three groups of faithful volunteers books their spots one year in advance to

LIVING HERE  | CHURCH MILESTONE Milford Baptist celebrates 190 years

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serve every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday of the Thanksgiving season. As a result, Bennett said the regular volunteers get to take off to spend time with family. “I just feel like these families are led by Christ to be His hands and feet, and that’s what it’s all about here,” Bennett said. “God is leading them to SEE VOLUNTEERS | A3

A 90-unit single-family home development is moving forward on two parcels along E. Gap Creek Road, following Greer Planning Commission’s decision last Monday. GPC approved with a unanimous vote of 5-0 the AN 22-24 request to annex 24.09 acres into the City of Greer and zone to DRD, Design Review District. A westbound left turning lane is recommended to be installed into the site from E. Gap Creek Road, and a residential buffer will be installed where property is adjacent to residential uses. “Our goal is to really bring a product that SEE GPC | A5

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A2 THE GREER CITIZEN COMMUNITY

Community News

Church News

GREER RELIEF SEEKING NEW GIFTS

TAYLORS FIRST TO HOLD CHRISTMAS EVENTS

Greer Relief holds a Christmas Morning Shoppe each year to allow parents in need to earn Christmas gifts for their children, instead of depending on organizations that provide gifts through one way giving. The shoppe is in need of new toy and gift donations. For more information, visit https://greerrelief. org/christmas-morning-shoppe/.

PRESTON BURCH | THE GREER CITIZEN

Shopping season

GREER CHAMBER HELPING NONPROFITS

The Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Greer Class 43 is asking for the community’s support to benefit Daily Bread Ministries, Greer Community Ministries, Greer Relief & Resources, Piedmont Women’s Center and Taylors Free Medical Clinic. The Chamber will be accepting checks, cash and online payments for this initiative. To make an online payment or to find more information, visit https:// business.greerchamber. com/events/details/ stock-the-shelves-9496.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2022

Shoppers lined up at Belk in Greer on Black Friday to take advantage of holiday discounts and deals.

SEND VETERANS CHRISTMAS CARDS

The community is invited to send holiday cards to veterans in hospice care through the 4th Annual Operation Holiday Salute. Cards can be addressed: “Dear Veteran” or “Dear Hero.” Cards received by December 2 will get to veterans this Christmas. Mail cards to: Veteran Last Patrol, 140B Venture Blvd., Spartanburg, SC 29306. For more informa-

tion, visit www.veteranlastpatrol.org or call 864580-8005.

PRISMA TO HOLD GOOD NIGHT LIGHTS

Prisma Health Children’s Hospital invites the community to participate in its holiday initiative to brighten the season for patients and families with Good Night Lights on Sunday, Dec. 4, 7 p.m., at the Greenville campus. Community members can gather to shine flashlights or blink car lights

toward patients’ windows to help send well wishes, positive thoughts and holiday cheer as the children “answer back” with their own flashlights. For information, visit www.prismahealthupstategiving.org/goodnightlights/.

GINGERBREAD JAMBOREE SET FOR DEC. 6

Greer’s Gingerbread Jamboree is scheduled for December 6 this year at the Center for the Arts.

ry and Christmas carols. Two identical Christmas Eve services will be held on December 24 at 3 and 5 p.m., and the church will have Christmas Day Worship on December 25 at 11 a.m.

PRAISE CATHEDRAL TO PRESENT ‘BEHOLD JESUS’

Taylors First Baptist Church is holding a Christmas service entitled “There is another King” on December 1 at 7:30 p.m. and December 4 at 10 a.m. A Children’s Musical: “A Christmas Yarn” will take place on December 11 at 6 p.m. Christmas lessons and carols are scheduled for December 18 at 6 p.m. to include the Christmas sto-

The Praise Cathedral Choir and Orchestra will present “Behold Jesus” on Sunday, Dec. 11, at 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. Admission is free, and nursery will be provided. Praise Cathedral is located at 3390 Brushy Creek Road in Greer. For more information, call 864-879-4878 or visit praisecathedral.org.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

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Blessed and honored Angel Heart of Hope thanks everyone who helped raise $8,464.82 for pediatric cancer cure research in September during Childhood Cancer Awareness month—a special thanks to Tammy Dixon and her team at eXp Realty who hosted a BBQ; RMS “Spirit Week”-Principal Kate Malone, faculty, Kaci Roper-Beta Club, students, parents; “HundredX”; RHS “Gold Out”-Principal Darah Huffman, Coach Bri Jones, the Girls Basketball Team, Coach Cindy Armstrong, Cheerleaders, Coach Mi-

chael Petit, Anna Webb, student council, students, staff and parents. We are blessed to be part of such a loving community and thank everyone for their support. It is an honor to raise funds in Bella Muntean’s memory to help with better treatments and hopefully cures one day so that no parent will lose their child to cancer. Brenda Muntean President and Co-Founder, Angel Heart of Hope Greer

NEWS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2022

THE GREER CITIZEN A3

Greer Relief distributes boxes

FROM PAGE ONE

For holiday meals BY KAELYN CASHMAN STAFF WRITER Greer Relief districted more than 100 turkeys in their Thanksgiving box distribution on Tuesday, Nov. 22. That morning, North Greenville University’s PA students and a group from Taylors First Baptist showed up bright and early ready to volunteer at Greer Relief and hand out some turkeys. Also, two Americorps members were the first smiling faces that neighbors saw when they walked in to get their boxes.

VOLUNTEERS: Needed

PHOTO | SUBMITTED

A group of North Greenville University PA students, Taylors First Baptist members, and Greer Relief’s two Americorps Members (Robert and Carolina) helped distriburte Thanksgiving boxes last week.

come and help, and feed people who are less fortunate than themselves, and they’re so happy to do it.” Bennett said the soup kitchen receives several calls from community members who want to volunteer over the holidays to feed the hungry, but she has to direct them elsewhere and ask them to call back another time. “The spots are already taken. We’re already at capacity,” she said. “I do recommend that they call back because we need the week of Christmas filled.” Bennett said that last year, the Greer Soup Kitchen fed about 175 people each day during the week of Thanksgiving. This year, volunteers handed out hats, gloves,

‘I do recommend that they call back because we need the week of Christmas filled.’ Martha Bennett

Director, Greer Soup Kitchen

and toiletries to the homeless up until Friday. Some volunteers brought coats and blankets, as well. During Christmas, volunteers will give away clothing and accessories to help keep clients warm, as well. For those interested in volunteering this holiday season, call the Greer Soup Kitchen at 864-968-0323.

Benchmark PT opens new outpatient clinic In Greer BY KAELYN CASHMAN STAFF WRITER BenchMark Physical Therapy opened an outpatient clinic Monday, Nov. 21, at 5050 Wade Hampton Blvd. BenchMark offers outpatient orthopedic physical therapy, including manual therapy, injury prevention, return to performance, and total joint replacement programs.

Clinic director Tinsley Patterson earned a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from Anderson University and a doctor of physical therapy degree from Mercer University. Patterson, a credentialed clinical instructor, is certified in dry needling and vestibular rehabilitation. BenchMark has area clinics in Greenville (three), Moore, Easley, Simpsonville and Hendersonville, among nearly 40 in South Carolina.

BenchMark, part of the Upstream Rehabilitation family of clinical care, offers access to care within 24 hours and works with all insurance types. The Greer clinic is open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday and Wednesday; 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday; and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday. To make an appointment, call 864-686-6070 or visit benchmarkpt.com.

Sharing the spirit Julio Vidal and Regina Lamb, left, helped prepare a free Thanksgiving lunch for anyone in the community on Thursday at Crate Restaurant and Wine Bar.

[email protected] | 877-2076

Photos by Preston Burch

FIRE: Destroys home of local family, community can help through gofundme page FROM PAGE ONE

was engulfed when I got there; all the kids were out in the field.” Smith’s ring camera footage showed what happened. “It was basically an inferno,” she said. “It was about four minutes that it took for the entire house to be in flames.” Gracie, Smith’s 15-yearold who has been fighting a rare form of childhood cancer, made sure everyone got outside. “Gracie was there and did great,” Smith said. “She actually was the one who made sure everybody got out, and she ran back into a burning home and retrieved her daddy’s [drawer].” That drawer contained special trinkets belonging to the children’s father, who passed away from cancer seven years ago. “I just kind of put all of his trinkets, little special things, like his wallet, his wedding band, his bracelets, stuff that meant something to him that also meant something to us, that are the only things we have left of him really,” Smith said. “I always put them in that drawer. If I’m walking around the house, I see something; I’ll go put it in the drawer.” “The drawer’s super heavy,” she said. “I don’t even know how she got it out, but Gracie was able to get that drawer out and brought it out of the house and got it to the front porch, and then she realized that the cat wasn’t out, so she ran back in and got the cat, so her and I have had some fire safety 101 talks. I’m very, very thankful that she saved those things for us; those meant more to us than pretty much anything in that house, but Gracie means more to me than all of that, especially with her health compromised the way it is, and all that, she was brave enough to go in there and get all that stuff.” Smith was also proud of her 12-year-old son Tug for following their family’s fire safety plan. “I can’t believe that my 12-year-old son listened to the rules,” Smith said. “He always in school when they had fire safety pro-

grams and they would talk about, do you have a plan for your home? Tug has always come home and asked, what’s our plan?” “I’ve always said, if this house catches on fire, you get out immediately, the quickest way you can, and you go straight to the field,” she said. “We have a field in front of our house; it’s two football fields long, and I’ve always told them, get as far away from the house as you can, and you stay in one spot; don’t leave there; wait on everybody else.” Tug was the first one out even though his bedroom was in the back of the house where the fire was. “He passed everyone and got out and stood out in that field and waited for his sisters,” Smith said. “Laynie and the cousin were in the front yard, which was a little ways from the house.” “Then, Gracie ran back in,” she said. “Laynie would not leave Gracie; she waited there frantically for Gracie to come out. Gracie was super brave; I fussed at her really bad about going back in there.” Smith has mixed feelings regarding Gracie’s actions. “Gracie was super brave,” Smith said. “She just went into big girl mode. She was super responsible and made sure everybody, all the animals, made sure everybody was out and safe before she got herself out, which I’m on a double edge sword with that.” “That wasn’t very responsible, Gracie, but then at the same time, it was super responsible,” she said. “She acted as an adult and made sure that everybody was taken care of; I’m just thankful that it didn’t end any other way.” Whitney, Smith’s oldest, was on her way home from Clemson and pulled up in the driveway to see the same thing that Smith saw. “She came in probably five minutes after the fire trucks got there,” Smith said. Family and friends gathered that afternoon with some taking a trip right then to purchase shoes and jackets for the children who did not have any.

“We weren’t able to retrieve any personal items,” Smith said. “We lost everything.” “I had two kids, didn’t have shoes on, no jackets,” she said. “We had on clothes that we wore to church, and that’s it. It’s definitely difficult, but we’re making it through it.” The Smiths have been staying with family and recently found a rental to move into December 1-3. “It’s close to our home where we’re used to being, but it’s not home,” Smith said. “We’re used to living on 16 acres, and this is a subdivision house.” “It’s going to be a little different; we’re going to have to get used to some things until we can figure out this insurance nightmare–if we can rebuild there or if we’re going to try a fresh start somewhere else,” she said. “We’re super thankful for our community. Once again, this is our third round of community support—through my husband having cancer, and then now Gracie having cancer, and then now our house burning down. They just keep coming, keep helping and loving on us, and supporting us. We are very, very thankful for them.”

HELPING HANDS

As of Tuesday, Nov. 29, the gofundme had raised $36,260 of the $50,000 goal, and the community had helped in a number of ways. “The yard and the driveway were full of people coming down,” Smith said. “Some were just being nosy, just people from 29, but a lot of them were family and friends, showed up there during the incident to help us and hug on us and love on us and offer us anything we needed, coats and shoes.” “They had gone shopping and bought us things, all of our essentials, toiletries that day; a group of the girls that were in the yard, some of my neighbors went together and got us all of those things,” she said. “People came down and helped the next day go through and try to salvage what was left, which was very small, but it was the thought that counted.”

Some friends have provided contact information for people who can help the Smiths. “The schools have reached out and helped,” Smith said. “My kids, they didn’t have book bags. I had to go buy all those things. They were so helpful when we went back to school yesterday, getting in their Chromebooks and working on their school work.” “Both principals of Greer High and Greer Middle School have personally called me from their own phones to check on us,” she said. “It’s a blessing, but it’s a lot at one time.” The Smith family attends Springwell Church. “We’re grateful for our faith that’s kept us strong,” Smith said. “Things like this happen. There’s a bigger reason behind it. We’ve got our faith to help carry us through that.” “My mom always told me, what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger, and I keep telling my friends, you better watch out; I’m really close to Hulk status. I’m really close to becoming the Hulk; I’m not quite sure when it’s going to happen, but it’s possible.” Since the fire, there have been some challenges with emotional and insurance issues. “Gracie seems to be fine; nobody got hurt,” Smith said. “All the kids are struggling a little bit with PTSD stuff. Candles are a no-go. People build little camp fires out in their yard; that’s a nogo. They’re not ready for those kinds of things.” “I did have rental insurance that is going to help with replacing the contents of my home, but the structural dwelling is kind of iffy because it was in limbo; it was in a probate case with the uncle that owned the property, passed away, some paperwork wasn’t finished, so the insurance company’s trying to give us a hard time a little bit,” she said, “but just going to pray really hard that everything goes through.” Anyone who is interested in helping the Smith family is asked to donate to the gofundme. “It’s going to help us to hopefully be a good chunk

to rebuilding our home,” Smith said. “Our insurance policy, if it does go through, it was very minimum, so it’s not going to be enough to rebuild.” “We were without a mortgage, which was great, considering that I’m out of work with taking care of Gracie, but now rebuilding or even buying a home, we’re going to have a mortgage,” she said. “On the responsibility side, I’m a little concerned about that.” Smith has been independent most of her life. “I don’t know what I need,” Smith said. “I really don’t know, and then I don’t like to ask.” “This gofundme is an easier route,” she said. “If people don’t know how to help and they want to help, that is the best way to help.” Smith plans to use the funds to buy what the family needs and to let the kids pick out things for their new place to feel like home. “I just want to go home,” Smith said. “I just want to feel like I’m at home.” “I’m thankful that it was my house that burnt down and that I’m not sitting at a burn center trying to save

a kid’s life or making arrangements at Woods for one of my children,” she said. “It could be a whole lot worse. I wasn’t raised materialistic, so these things can be replaced, but my kids can’t. None of us could. We all have each other; I’m grateful for that and the community that’s helping us. This, too, shall pass.” Everything in the house has been lost, and the gofundme page was created to help the Smith family replace everything. “As you know, this family has been faced with insurmountable challenges, losing their husband and father a few years ago, and Gracie bravely battling a rare form of childhood cancer all the while holding strong to their faith and loving their community,” said Whitney Jackson, who organized the fundraiser. “Everyone who knows the Smith family knows they would be the first to help in a time of need,” she said. “Let’s all come together to support them and help them get back on their feet.” [email protected] | 877-2076

The City of Greer Planning Commission will hold a Public Hearing at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, December 19, 2022 at Greer City Hall located at 301 E. Poinsett Street on the following: DOCKET NUMBER: APPLICANT: ADDRESS: PARCEL ID NUMBER: EXISTING ZONING: REQUEST:

AN 22-28 Becknell Industrial, LLC Abner Creek Rd 5-29-00-037.00, 5-29-00-039.01, 5-29-00-042.00 Unzoned Spartanburg County Annex and Zone to I-1, Industrial District

DOCKET NUMBER: APPLICANT: ADDRESS: PARCEL ID NUMBER: EXISTING ZONING: REQUEST:

RZ 22-30 Joga Singh 445 Mayfield Rd 5-29-00-077.00 R-12, Single-Family Residential Rezone to S-1, Services District

DOCKET NUMBER: APPLICANT: ADDRESS: PARCEL ID NUMBER: EXISTING ZONING: REQUEST:

FDP 22-13 Arbor Land Design Harvey Rd 9-05-01-010.04 DRD, Design Review District Final Development Plan (FDP) Approval

DOCKET NUMBER: APPLICANT: ADDRESS: PARCEL ID NUMBER:

AN 22-19 Streams Development N Dobson Rd 9-03-00-056.00, 9-03-00-056.01 and 9-03-00-056.02 Unzoned Spartanburg County Annex and Zone to RM-2, Residential Multi-family

EXISTING ZONING: REQUEST:

Documents related to the requests are available for public inspection in the Planning and Zoning Office located at 301 E. Poinsett Street.

Opinion The Greer Citizen

A4 THE GREER CITIZEN  WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2022

Over the river and through the recollections

I

t’s that time of year when millions flock to the airport while others flock to the grocery stores, and those who actually live in flocks, wind up on the dinner table, filled with stuffing. Paul and I have made reservations. With zero guilt. Having spent, years ago, four consecutive Thanksgivings at the hospital bedside of one of our respective mothers, culminating with the death of Paul’s mother on the day itself, our decision to return to our favorite inn atop Saluda Mountain for the foreseeable future is both a luxury and a continued healing of sorts. The interior of the inn is always perfect: elegantly decorated without competing for its rustic charm. We tend not to sit near the river-rock fireplace with its beckoning, crackling flames. Instead, we sit where we always sat with our mothers when they--both in their late 80s and early 90s--were able to join us: on a sofa on the other side of the lobby, facing the two leather wing chairs

I’M JUST SAYING

This Thanksgiving, as with

PAM STONE with a wonderful view through the bank of windows framing the Blue Ridge. And we, of course, adored spoiling them: a glass of champagne upon arrival to toast the day, and lots of lively chatter before being seated at table for dinner. Joan and Christine always chose the wing chairs as they were sturdy with strong arms on which both women could lean for support as they rose. This Thanksgiving, as with each one these past several years, Paul and I will face those two chairs, now unoccupied, but with memories that are vivid in their clarity…Christine in her bright red wool suit and matching lipstick, Joan in her mauve, wool cloak and silver hair wound into a bun. They delighted in this annual

each one these past several years, Paul and I will face those two chairs, now unoccupied, but with memories that are vivid in their clarity… tradition, the surroundings, the sumptuous food and drink—a day they have looked forward to for weeks. When you are elderly, especially when you have lost much cherished independence, not to mention friends, it is imperative to have something in which to look forward. We, of course, had also spent many a holiday at home on the farm which both women thoroughly enjoyed. And as their health became more precarious,

these Christmases and Thanksgivings were less stressful in terms of mobility and privacy. Putting ones feet up for a post-dinner nap on the sofa was encouraged in our house, probably less so in the lobby of an establishment. Yet, while I can still see my mother with her artistic eye turning a centerpiece just so, or moving an ornament on the tree to balance out its symmetry, the recollections of each woman’s vibrant personalities seem to be stronger at the inn. In a few days we will be winding our way up the back of the mountain, taking in the view of the late afternoon light filtering over the pleasing collection of log and stone cabins that punctuate the countryside and the cascading waterfall that never fails to elicit wonder. It seems less that Paul and I are returning once again this year to muse the memories of our mothers and more that we are actually joining them. With champagne, of course.

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NOTABLE

KAELYN’S KORNER

Big Band to present free Christmas concert

KAELYN CASHMAN Staff reporter

Christmas season

Greenspan Big Band will present a Christmas concert on Saturday, Dec. 3, at 7:30 p.m. at the Edward R. Driggers City of Greer Center for the Arts. The program, “Swinging into Christmas,” will feature familiar Christmas tunes performed in the style of performers like Ella Fitzgerald and the Count Basie Big Band.

M

This guest editorial was originally published by The Washington Times.

[email protected] | 877-2076

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WANT TO GO? What: Greenspan Big Band Christmas concert When: Saturday, Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m. Where: City of Greer Center for the Arts For information: [email protected]

There will be Christmas carols in a jazz style, traditional Christmas favorites like “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer,” as well as some newer favorites such as “Hot Chocolate” from Polar Express and “Feliz Navidad.” Teresa Hannon will perform vocals on “Santa Baby” and “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire” as well as several other favorites. Greenspan Big Band is a 17-piece Jazz Ensemble that is made up of musicians from the Upstate that come from many different backgrounds. They have perform at Greer Station for activities like Dining on Trade and the International Festival. They have also played for the American Red Cross fundraiser each year, as well as other locations throughout the upstate. For more information, contact [email protected].

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR  |

Submission guidelines

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he Greer Citizen accepts Letters to the Editor. Letters should be 125 words or less and include a name and a phone number for verification. The Greer Citizen reserves the right to edit any content. Letters to the Editor can be mailed to 317 Trade St., Greer 29651. SEE LETTERS | A2

Living off Biden’s freebies is not the Amerian way America was built by the “working stiff,” ordinary men and women doing ordinary jobs to earn the means to put a roof over their heads and food on the table. Now a sizable proportion of those individuals are stiffing work — choosing to live off the labors of others. That’s not the American way. Ensuring the future hinges on rejecting easy freebies and recovering respect for the nation’s work ethic. The Biden administration proudly claims to have driven down the post-pandemic unemployment rate to admirable lows — 3.7 percent in October. Unmentioned, though, is the proportion of Americans who have simply quit working: The labor force participation rate measured a feeble 62.2 percent last month. While 10.7 million jobs remain unfilled across the nation, reports the Labor Department, more than seven million working-age men remain neither employed nor looking for work. American Enterprise Institute scholar Nicholas Eberstadt has labeled them “a nation of quitters.” Americans with their noses to the grindstone can only wonder: How do their idle neighbors manage to get by without a paycheck? Part of the answer is government largesse, which is meant to keep the wolf from the door for the downtrodden. Sadly, handouts also dis-incentivize work. With the unbridled distribution of $2.5 trillion in borrowed public funds in 2020 and 2021, the national personal savings rate doubled as Americans collected more COVID-19 relief money than they could spend. Whether one is poor or wealthy, free money is hard to resist.

Established 1918

Steve Blackwell | Publisher Photographer Staff Reporter Staff Reporter

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GUEST EDITORIAL

The Greer Citizen Preston Burch Kaelyn Cashman Macy Cochran

Even with the pandemic fading, millions have chosen not to return to the office — the socalled “great resignation.” Americans are watching the phenomenon in real time following Elon Musk’s takeover of Twitter and the layoff of half the social media giant’s workforce; more than a thousand employees have refused their new boss’s requirement to work “extremely hardcore.” Instead, they’re quitting en masse. In San Francisco, where Twitter’s headquarters is, the city offers guaranteed income to certain protected classes of individuals. Among them are musicians, artists and writers, and expecting and post-birth mothers. Recently added to the list are transgender people, who can apply for stipends of $1,200 per month. Could Twitter employees who have flown the coop soon be next in line?

y birthday, which is December 4, falls in the Christmas season. I have always enjoyed decorating for the holiday on my birthday weekend and seeing everyone starting to get into the spirit. A coworker shared an email with me, saying, “South Carolinians typically feel December 4th is the first ‘Christmassy’ day of the holiday season.” I love that designation for my birthday! That weekend has traditionally been reserved for Christmas decorating in my family growing up, and I have carried that tradition forward in my own home. Each year has special joys, memories and challenges; remembering the true reason we celebrate helps in every situation. Philippians 2:5-11 says, “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. “And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. “Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” In John 6:37-40, Jesus says, “All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out. “For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me. “And this is the will of him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up on the last day. “For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.”

Shayna Blackwell Julie Holcombe Stephanie Reider

Advertising Graphic Artist Office Manager

The labor force participation rate measured a feeble 62.2 percent last month. While 10.7 million jobs remain unfilled across the nation, reports the Labor Department, more than seven million working-age men remain neither employed nor looking for work.

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Obituaries The Greer Citizen



WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2022

Louise E. Evans Greer

Margaret Louise Edwards Evans, 84, wife of the late Edward James Evans, passed away November 28, 2022. A native of Greenville County, daughter of the late Boyd Dean and Dora Ella Pittman Edwards, she was a homemaker and of the Baptist faith. Surviving are one daughter, Deborah Smith (Tom) of Ware Shoals; two sons, Brian Joseph Evans (Donna) and Edward Dean Evans (Delores), all of Greer; four brothers, William Guy Edwards of Landrum, Lindsey Edwards of Greenville, Troy Lee Edwards of Oregon, and Arnold Earl Edwards of Greer; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. She was also predeceased by one son, Kenneth Brent Evans; one sister, Marcelle Harvey; and two grandchildren. Graveside services will be held 3 p.m. Friday, December 2, 2022, at Wood Memorial Park, conducted by Rev. Tony Edwards. Visitation will be held 3-6 p.m. Thursday, December 1, 2022, at the home. The family is at the home. Online condolences may be made at www.thewoodmortuary.com.

Laura J. Heise Greer, SC

Laura Jannene Heise, 65, passed away November 21, 2022. A native of Williams, Arizona, daughter of the late Jon and Martha Anne Bashore Heise, she was of the Christian faith. Surviving are three daughters, Audra Heise of Duncan, SC, Jamée Edge (Randall) of Taylors, SC, and Kimbré Merida (Efren) of Duncan, SC; one brother, Steven Heise (Josephine) of Hiawatha, Iowa; one sister, Suzanne Cheeseman (Peter) of Ocean Springs, Mississippi; five grandchildren, Ellorie, Jolia, Ana, Gabriel, and Rosalita; and sister-in-law, Lucy Heise. Ms. Heise was predeceased by one son, Aaron R. Foxx; three brothers, Danny Heise, Michael Heise, and David Heise; and one sister, Carolynn “Caren” Heise. Funeral services were held 2 p.m. Sunday, November 27, 2022, at The Wood Mortuary Chapel, conducted by Pastor Mary Crite. Visitation was held 12:30-1:45 p.m. Sunday, November 27, 2022, at The Wood Mortuary. The family will be at their respective homes. Online condolences may be made to www.thewoodmortuary.com.

Christine K. Queen Christine K. Queen was born in Spencer, West Virginia, to William Carl Knotts and Dovie (Dobbins) Knotts on December 25, 1937. She went home to be with the Lord on November 15, 2022. Christine was married to Harvey Queen (deceased) and had five children, Kenneth Dickey (deceased), Thomas Queen (Dickey) (deceased), and Karen Drummond (John) of Taylors, all three from a previous marriage; and Pamela Edwards (Queen) (deceased) and Kimberly Queen of Greer. Siblings were Glenn Knotts (deceased) of Orlando, Florida, Carlene Boyd (deceased) of Orlando, Florida, and Judy Patrick of Mogadore, Ohio. Christine had three grandchildren, Tiffany Elliott (Larry) of Simpsonville, Jason Queen of Walhalla, and Jennifer Edwards of Spartanburg, and four great-grandchildren. Christine spent many years of her life in Akron, Ohio, before moving to Seneca and then to Greer over twelve years ago. A celebration of Christine’s life will be held at a service beginning at 2 p.m. at Peoples Baptist Church, 310 Victor Ave Ext., Greer, SC 29651 on December 11, 2022. The family would like to thank Pruitt Hospice for the excellent care they provided for Christine and the constant support the family received. Donations may be made to Peoples Baptist Church, 310 Victor Ave Ext., Greer, SC 29651; Meals on Wheels through Greer Community Ministries, 739 S. Line Street Ext., Greer, SC 29651; or Cancer Society of Greenville, 113 Mills Ave, Greenville, SC 29605.

Ott Sizemore William Arthur Sizemore, affectionately known as “Ott” passed away peacefully at Spartanburg Regional Hospice Home on Monday, November 21, 2022. Born on February 4, 1953, Ott was a native of Reidville, South Carolina and son of the late John Shell Sizemore, Sr. and Harriet Taylor Sizemore. He attended James F. By-

rnes High School, graduate of the class of ’71. He attended and was graduated from the University of South Carolina in 1975 with a Bachelor’s Degree in History. Ott later went on to earn his Education Specialist degree from Converse College.  Teaching, coaching, and mentoring young people was very important to Ott. He touched the lives of many students and educators over the years. His teaching and coaching career started after his graduation from USC, where he served in various roles such as a Teacher, Football Coach, Basketball Coach, Assistant Principal, Principal, Personnel Coordinator, and Title IX Coordinator. His educational career spanned 42 years in Spartanburg School Districts 6, 5, and 1, as well as Tryon, North Carolina and Union, South Carolina. He was also a School Board Member for Spartanburg School District Five. Ott was a true believer of children and definitely stood by the D5 motto of “Every Child, Every Day.” His passion for educating children was evident in his devotion and support to his community.  Ott was such a compassionate and devoted man who deeply loved his family, friends, and his beloved dogs who stayed by his side during this recent illness. He was a life-long supporter of the Byrnes Rebels and South Carolina Gamecocks. He was a member of Bethel United Methodist Church, Byrnes Class of ‘71 Men’s Group, The Gamecock Club, The Rebel Touchdown Club, Founder of the Block B Alumni Club, Founding President of the Byrnes High School Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and former Color Commentator for the Byrnes Football team. Ott was a devoted Christian who often enjoyed writing poems, stories, and songs. He enjoyed writing for others and often gifted his friends and co-workers with uplifting verses.  In addition to the love of his life, Lynda, Ott is survived by his children, Amy Jo Sizemore Hansen (Jeff), Andrew Warren Sizemore (Staci), Anna Sizemore Reese (Brandon), Abigail Sizemore Kyle (Caleb), John Theodore Stathakis, II, and Harry LeRoy Stathakis; grandchildren, Logan Sizemore, Bailey Reese, William Hansen, Anna Claire Sizemore, and Walker Hansen; sisters inlaw, Helen Sizemore and Marise Sizemore; brother in-law, Philip LeRoy Branyon; cousin, Fredda Turner; and several nieces and nephews.  Ott was also preceded in death by his two brothers, Luther Lawrence Sizemore and John Shell Sizemore, Jr.  The family would like to thank Spartanburg Regional Hospital System’s medical professionals and staff, especially Infectious Disease specialist, Dr. Debra Miller-Cox for her devotion and medical expertise.  A Celebration of Life was held Wednesday, November 23, at 10 a.m. at Bethel United Methodist

Church in Spartanburg. Reverends Brad and Megan Gray officiated. The family received friends at the conclusion of the service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bethel United Methodist Church, 245 South Church Street, Spartanburg South Carolina, 29306, or The Block B Alumni Club, 730 Judah Drive, Moore, SC, 29369.  Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.JMDunbar.com.  Dunbar Funeral Home & Crematory  

complements the East Gap corridor,” said Jack Carson of Greer, representative for Divine Group. No one spoke for or against that annexation or any other requests during the public hearing portion of the meeting. GPC also unanimously approved the RZ 22-26 request to rezone three parcels of land from Garden Court or Patio House to DRD, Design Review District, for the development of six townhome units on Wildwood Drive. The community will consist of attached single-family residential townhomes with private roads. The development

will also include 0.29 acres of common area. A Traffic Impact Analysis was not required for this development based on trip generation. “The plan is for these to be subdivided, not rented, and to be purchased after completion,” said Josh Harrison of Greenville, representative from Gray Engineering. The home in the middle of the parcel will be torn down during construction. In addition, GPC approved RZ 22-27 to rezone 0.76 acres from C-3 Highway Commercial to Multi-Family Residential District for the applicant to combine this parcel with two adjacent parcels to develop a small apart-

ment complex on Chandler Road. Surrounding land includes two vacant lots, an assisted living facility, and a residential property. “We’ve been doing this for a number of years in the Easley and Asheville area,” said Elisha Lerner, representative for Chandler at Memorial Holdings. “We’re planning to make a boutique community that is self-sufficient and able to complement the area.” The applicant for RZ 22-28, the rezoning of the 0.34-acre parcel located at 106 Highland Drive, was absent at the meeting; therefore, GPC tabled the rezoning request. GPC approved RZ 2229 for the rezoning of

PRESTON BURCH | THE GREER CITIZEN

Holiday giving Jimmy Stephens passes a donated toy to Greer officer Chad Richardson on Saturday at Greer Walmart Supercenter during the Pack-a-Patrol event for Cops for Tots. Another event is set for Dec. 3, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Lyman rezones two properties Mamon Walker Greenville

Ellis Mamon Walker, 85, passed away November 25, 2022. A native of Taylors, South Carolina, son of the late Jones Ambus and Mary Ellen Lindsay Walker, Mr. Walker was a retired Class AAA Golf Course Superintendent, a lifelong Landscape Manager, was of the Baptist Faith, a member of East North Street Baptist Church and Wrenn Memorial Baptist Church, a Mason and member of Wade Hampton Lodge #404, a Shriner, 32nd Scottish Rite, and a member of the Shriner’s Character Unit. Surviving are his wife, Lucy Cunningham Walker; one daughter, Karen Walker Mullins (Nick) of Nolensville, Tennessee; one son, Danny Walker (Mary) of Mauldin; two brothers, Jones A. Walker, Jr. (Shirley) of Greer and Kenneth E. Walker of Greenville; four grandchildren, Zachary, Lindsey, Mitchell, and Morgan; six great-grandchildren, Gracie, Brianna, Landon, Mason, Camden, and Charlotte; and one great-great-grandchild, Bryson. Mr. Walker was also predeceased by one granddaughter, Lauren Mullins, and one sister-in-law, Ruby Walker. Funeral services with Masonic Rites were held 11 a.m. Wednesday, November 30, 2022, at The Wood Mortuary Chapel, conducted by Rev. Jim Duncan. The family requested that all in attendance wear business casual attire, no neckties please. Visitation was held 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, November 29, 2022, at The Wood Mortuary. The family is at their respective homes. Memorials may be made to Wrenn Memorial Baptist Church, youth ministries, 19 Sidney St, Greenville, SC 29609, or Shriners Hospital, 950 W. Faris Rd., Greenville, SC 29605. Online condolences may be made at www.thewoodmortuary.com.

GPC: Recommends approvals of requests for council FROM PAGE ONE

THE GREER CITIZEN A5

a 0.081-acre portion of a parcel located at 319 Morrow Road from R-12, Single-family Residential District, to C-3, Highway Commercial. Applicant Nathan Coponen of Greer plans to combine the portion of the subject parcel with the northeast adjacent parcel in order to have a larger property size for a commercial use. GPC also approved RZ 22-23 to rezone 0.33 acres of land to R-5, Garden Court or Patio House for the applicant, True North Properties, to create two lots for future single-family detached homes. [email protected] | 877 2076

BY MACY COCHRAN STAFF WRITER Lyman Town Council is in the process of rezoning several properties, following their monthly November meeting. Council approved the first reading of an ordinance accepting the rezoning of 0.74 acres of property at 12404 Greenville Highway, Lyman, from GBD1, General Business District 1, to RM, Multi-Family High Density. Council also had the first reading of an ordinance accepting the rezoning of 2.19 acres of property at 1250 Inman Road, Wellford, from R-15, Single Family Low Density, to GBD1, General Business District 1. In addition, council approved the second reading

of an ordinance accepting the rezoning of 2.34 acres of property from GI, General Industrial District, to GBD1, General Business District 1. Following some discussion, council voted unanimously to appoint council member Phillip C. McIntyre to the Personnel Committee in place of Hannah Welzel, who resigned because she moved out of Lyman town limits. McIntyre attended the University of South Carolina and studied music education at Furman University. He is the former Educational Representative at Music & Arts, and former Director of Athletic Bands at North Greenville University. He is also on the Board of Trustees at Spartanburg School District Five.

Countybank grows trust department BY KAELYN CASHMAN STAFF WRITER Countybank recently announced that Shellie Miller, Senior Vice President, has been named Senior Trust Officer and Jordan Earle has joined Countybank as Vice President, Trust Officer. As Senior Trust Officer, Miller will be responsible for oversight of all aspects of Countybank’s Trust department activities. Miller has more than 25 years of banking and wealth management experience. “Shellie’s relevant industry experience and work in her previous position as Countybank Trust Operations Manager make her an excellent candidate for this leadership role,” said Ken Harper, executive vice president and chief banking officer at Countybank. “We are pleased to welcome her into this critical position within Countybank’s Trust department.” Prior to joining Countybank, Miller served as vice president and director at Farmers National Bank where she was responsible for wealth management operations. Miller holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in

Management and Human Relations from Trevecca University. She also holds several Trust certifications. Earle joins Countybank with more than 27 years of Trust experience. In his role as Trust Officer, Earle will be responsible for managing client relationships. “We are pleased to welcome Jordan to the Countybank family as we continue to grow the talent and expertise of our Trust department,” Harper said. Prior to joining Countybank, Earle served as personal chief financial officer and financial administrator for J. Earle Financial where he launched an entrepreneurial startup that specialized in delegated client and trustee activities. Earle holds an MBA degree from Wake Forest University’s Babcock School of Management, a Bachelor of Science degree in administration from The Citadel, and has attended the American Bankers Association Trust School at Northwestern University. He is also a certified Trust and Financial Advisor (CTFA).

SCHOOL: Receives name

FROM PAGE ONE

A committee of parents, teachers and administrators suggested possible names, taking the geographical surroundings and natural habitat into consideration.

Committee members brainstormed and came up with top suggestions for board members to consider. Tyger River Elementary School is scheduled to open at the beginning of the 2024-25 school year.

DONATION: Recognized

FROM PAGE ONE

“This donation enables to Cops for Tots program to support our community’s children and supports the mission of our police department,” Merriman said.

“I want to thank them for their generous donation to the Cops for Tots program,” he said. “It was huge.” Donations to Cops for Tots should be delivered no later than December 5.

A6 THE GREER CITIZEN PAGE LABEL

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2022

Worship With Us ASSEMBLIES OF GOD

Woods Chapel United Methodist Church

2425 Racing Rd., Greer • 848-4521

Zoar United Methodist Church

2388 Brown Wood Rd., Greer • 921-3557

New Covenant Fellowship

1005 Highway 357, Greer • 877-0758

Trinity Fellowship Church

3610 Brushy Creek Rd., Greer • 877-0419 1700 N. Pleasantburg Dr, Greenville • 244-6011

PRESBYTERIAN

Blue Ridge Presbyterian Church

BAPTIST

2094 Highway 101 North, Greer • 483-2140

Abner Creek Baptist Church

Devenger Road Presbyterian Church

2461 Abner Creek Rd., Greer • 877-6604

1200 Devenger Rd., Greer • 268-7652

Airport Baptist Church

Fellowship Presbyterian Church

776 S. Batesville Rd., Greer • 848-7850

1105 Old Spartanburg Rd., Greer • 877-3267

Apalache Baptist

First Presbyterian Church

1915 Gap Creek Rd., Greer • 877-6012

100 School St., Greer • 877-3612

Bible Baptist Church

Fulton Presbyterian Church

6645 Mountain View Rd., Taylors • 895-7003

821 Abner Creek Rd., Greer • 879-3190

Blue Ridge Baptist Church

Reidville Presbyterian Church

3950 Pennington Rd., Greer • 895-5787

340 College St., Reidville • 433-9965

Burnsview Baptist Church

OTHER DENOMINATIONS

9690 Reidville Rd., Greer • 879-4006

Calvary Baptist

101 Calvary St., Greer • 877-9759

Agape House 900 Gap Creek Rd., Greer • 329-7491 Anglican Church of St. George the Martyr

108 Forest St., Greer • 968-0092

Barton’s Memorial Pentacostal Holiness

Calvary Baptist

427 Batesville Rd., Simpsonville • 281-0015

Calvary Hill Baptist

Zoar United Methodist 1005 Highway 357 • Greer

100 Calvery Hill Church Drive., Lyman

Calvary Road Baptist Church 108 Bright Rd., Greer • 593-2643

Camp Creek Baptist

1100 Camp Creek Road, Taylors • 895-6191

Milford Baptist Church

O’Neal Church of God

109 Elmer St., Greer • 877-6216

Mount Lebanon Baptist Church

Pelham Church of God of Prophecy

1282 Milford Church Rd., Greer • 895-5533

Cedar Grove Baptist Church

3794 Berry Mill Rd., Greer • 895-4273

572 Mt. Lebanon Church Rd., Greer • 895-2334

Community Baptist Church

139 Abner Creek Rd., Greer • 801-0528

Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church

642 S. Suber Rd., Greer • 848-3500

Praise Cathedral Church of God

499 Hwy. 912, Travelers Rest • 895-8224

Double Springs Baptist Church

3390 Brushy Creek Rd., Greer • 879-4878

New Hope Baptist Church

3800 Locust Hill Rd., Taylors • 895-1314

EPISCOPAL

561 Gilliam Rd., Greer • 879-7080

Duncan First Baptist Church

Good Shepherd Episcopal

New Jerusalem Baptist Church

103 East Main St., Duncan • 439-7528

200 Cannon St., Greer • www.goodshepherdgreer.org

413 E. Poinsett St., Greer • 968-9203

Ebenezer-Welcome Baptist Church 4005 Highway 414, Landrum • 895-1461 313 Jones Ave., Greer • 877-4021

2200 Mays Bridge Rd, Greer • 895-4008

Immanuel Lutheran Church & School LCMS 2820 Woodruff Rd., Simpsonville • 297-5815

Redeemer Lutheran Church, ELCA

310 Victor Avenue Ext., Greer • 848-0449

First Baptist Church Lyman

Piney Grove Missionary Baptist Church

80 Groce Road, Lyman • 439-8721

300 Oneal Rd., Greer • 877-5876

Saints Peter and Paul Ev. Lutheran

201 Jordan Rd., Lyman • 879-2646

First Baptist Church

Pleasant Grove Baptist Church

202 W. Poinsett St., Greer • 877-4253

Freedom Fellowship

4373 Wade Hampton Blvd., Taylors • 631-1336

Friendship Baptist Church

400 Parker Ivey Dr., Greenville • 551-0246

1002 S. Buncombe Rd., Greer • 877-6436

METHODIST

Pleasant Hill Baptist Church

Bethel United Methodist Church

4899 Jordan Rd., Greer • 895-3546

105 E. Arlington Ave., Greer • 879-2066

Rebirth Missionary Baptist Church

1600 Holly Springs Rd., Lyman • 877-4746

Covenant United Methodist Church

2375 Racing Road, Greer • 877-0449

Good News Baptist Church

1592 S. Highway 14, Greer • 879-2289

Riverside Baptist Church

1310 Old Spartanburg Rd., Greer • 244-3162

Southside Baptist Church

174 Ebenezer Road, Greer • 987-9644

Ebenezer United Methodist Church

1249 S. Suber Rd., Greer • 879-4400

Grace Baptist Church

760 W. Gap Creek Rd., Duncan • 879-3519

Faith United Methodist Church

410 S. Main St., Greer • 421-5686

Greer Freewill Baptist Church

1301 S. Main St. (S. Hwy. 14), Greer • 877-0308

Suber Road Baptist Church

110 Pine Ridge Dr., Greer • 968-0310

Fews Chapel United Methodist Church

445 S. Suber Rd., Greer • 801-0181

Groveland Baptist Church

4000 N. Highway 101, Greer • 895-2522

Taylors First Baptist Church

2 Groveland Rd., Taylors • 879-2913

Grace United Methodist Church

200 W. Main St., Taylors • 244-3535

Heritage Chapel Baptist Church

627 Taylor Rd., Greer • 877-7015

Victor Baptist

218 Alexander Rd., Greer • 989-0170

Lee Road United Methodist Church

121 New Woodruff Rd., Greer • 877-9686

Highland Baptist Church

1377 East Lee Rd., Taylors • 244-6427

Washington Baptist Church

3270 Hwy. 414, Taylors • 895-5270

Liberty Hill United Methodist Church

3500 N. Highway 14, Greer • 895-1510

Hillcrest Baptist Church

301 Liberty Hill Rd., Greer • 968-8150

CATHOLIC

111 Biblebrook Dr., Greer • 877-4206

His Vineyard

Liberty United Methodist Church

Blessed Trinity Catholic Church

656 Arlington Rd, Greer • 801-0544 Hispanic Baptist Iglesia Bautista Hispana 199 Hubert St., Greer • 877-3899

4276 Highway 414, Landrum • 292-0142

Lyman United Methodist Church

901 River Rd., Greer • 879-4225

106 Groce Road, Lyman • 439-4047

CHURCH OF CHRIST

Memorial United Methodist Church

Duncan Church of Christ

Holly Springs Baptist Church

201 N. Main St., Greer • 877-0956

1234 S Danzler Rd, Duncan • 439-9263

250 Hannon Rd., Inman • 877-6765

Locust Hill Baptist Church

5534 Locust Hill Rd., Travelers Rest • 895-1771

Maple Creek Baptist Church

609 S. Main St., Greer • 877-1791

Mountain View UMC

Riverside Church of Christ

1015 North Main St, Greer • 230-3021

3856 N. Highway 101, Greer • 895-5570

Eastside Worship Center

Victor UMC

601 Taylors Rd., Taylors • 268-0523

Bible Trivia BY WILSON CASEY 1. Is the book of Issachar in the Old or New Testament or neither? 2. What bread component did Jesus compare with the kingdom of heaven? Yeast, Crust, Gluten, Wheat 3. Which of the 12 tribes of Israel wasn’t allotted any land? Simeon, Dan, Asher, Levi 4. Who removed a thorn from the lion’s foot? Benjamin, Job, Naphtali, Androcles 5. How many books of the Bible (KJV) are credited to Moses? 3, 4, 5, 6 6. What was first to be released from Noah’s Ark? Gull, Dove, Raven, Serpent ANSWERS: 1) Neither, 2) Yeast, 3) Levi, 4) Androcles, 5) Five, 6) Raven (c) 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

Faith Family Church

Harmony Fellowship Church Harvest Christian Church

2150 Highway 417, Woodruff • 486-8877

Heart of Worship

1400 W. Wade Hampton Blvd., Greer • 864-436-0604

International Cathedral of Prayer

100 Davis Avenue • Greer • 655-0009 Journey Fellowship 1846 Old Hwy. 14S • 877-2442

Keeping It Real Ministry

306 Snow Street, Suite 16, Greer • 202-0313

Lifesong Church

12481 Greenville Highway, Lyman • 439-2602

Living Way Community Church

3239 N. Highway 101, Greer • 895-0544

New Beginning Ministry of Taylors

311 Reid School Road, Taylors • 268-0958

New Beginnings Outreach

104 New Woodruff Rd., Greer • 968-2424

New Hope Freedom

109 W. Wade Hampton Blvd. • Greer • 205-8816 New Life in Christ 210 Arlington Rd. • 346-9053

Point of Life Church

12996 E. Wade Hampton Blvd. • Duncan • 426-4933

Resurrection Church

900 N. Main St. • Greer • 877-2288

Shekhinah Kind Glory Church 600 N. Main St., Greer • 655-4545

Springwell Church

4369 Wade Hampton Blvd., Taylors • 268-2299

True Life Church

12924 Wade Hampton Blvd., Duncan • 350-0641

United Anglican Fellowship

1001 W. Poinsett St., Greer • 629-3350

United Christian Church

P.O. Box 83, Lyman • 439-8788

St. Paul United Methodist Church

2416 N. Highway 14, Greer • 877-8329

570 Memorial Drive Ext., Greer • 877-7061

www.eagleswingschurchupstatesc.com El-Bethel Holiness 103 E. Church St. • 968-9474

1421 Reidville Sharon Rd., Greer • 879-7926 911 St. Mark Rd., Taylors • 848-7141

Church of God of Prophecy

Memorial Drive Baptist Church

Eagles Wings Church

105 Daniel Ave., Greer • 895-3966 United House of Prayer 213 Oak St., Greer • 848-0727

St. Mark United Methodist Church

500 Trade St., Greer • 877-0374

1065 Rogers Bridge Rd., Duncan • 877-1071

900 N. Main St., Greer • 877-2288 Christian Life Center 2 Country Plaza • 322-1325 Christian Outreach 106 West Rd. • 848-0308

6525 Mountain View Rd., Taylors • 895-8532

Sharon United Methodist Church

CHURCH OF GOD Church of God - Greer

Mayfield Chapel Baptist Church

Christian Heritage Church

468 S. Suber Rd., Greer • 877-8287

Eastside Apostolic Lutheran Church

Peoples Baptist Church

1300 Locust Hill Rd., Greer • 877-1881

3315 Brushy Creek Rd. • Greer • 877-8090 Christ Fellowship 343 Hampton Rd., Greer • 879-8446

453 N. Rutherford Rd., Greer • 848-4568

Apostolic Lutheran Church

2720 S. Old Highway 14, Greer • 879-4032

Fairview Baptist Church

Calvary Chapel of Greer

3339 Wade Hampton Blvd., Taylors • 244-0207 Faith Temple 5080 Sandy Flat Rd., Taylors • 895-2524

Pelham First Baptist Church

100 Enoree Circle, Greer • 268-4385

Holiday Inn, Duncan • 266-4269

401 Batesville Rd., Simpsonville •288-4867

3420 N. Highway 101, Greer • 895-0930

Enoree Fork Baptist Church

Calvary Bible Fellowship

Northwood Baptist Church

Abiding Peace Ev. Lutheran Church

Oneal Baptist Church

423 S. Buncombe Rd., Greer • 877-2121

1017 Mauldin Rd., Greenville • 283-0639

LUTHERAN

888 Ansel School Rd., Greer • 877-5417

Emmanuel Baptist Church

Beulah Christian Fellowship Church

New Life Baptist Church

90 Becco Rd., Greer • 895-3224

El Bethel Baptist Church

Highway 101 North, Greer Bethesda Temple 125 Broadus St., Greer • 877-8523

1 Wilson Ave., Greer • 877-5520

Upstate Friends’ Meeting (Quaker) Upstate Tree of Life

203 East Bearden St., Greer • 848-1295

Victorian Hills Community Church 209 Victor Ave. Ext., Greer • 877-3981

Vine Worship Center

4373 Wade Hampton Blvd., Taylors • 244-8175

Bible Word Search Verse of The Week BY ELIE’S SPIRITUAL TREASURES Find the bolded/underlined words in the diagram to the right

My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish? My God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer, by night, but I find no rest. Psalm 22:1-2 NIV

Greer

DILL CREEK COMMONS

1379 W. Wade Hampton, Greer

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Police and Fire The Greer Citizen



WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2022

SERVICE SPOTLIGHT Chuck McCall

THE GREER CITIZEN A7

LOCAL, NEVER SOLD!

GSP AIRPORT FIRE DEPARTMENT

BY MACY COCHRAN STAFF WRITER Chuck McCall, firefighter and emergency medical technician (EMT), works at the Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport Fire Station, and he found his way there after following in his dad’s footsteps decades ago. After serving as a US Marine for a while and then working as a police officer for 10 years, he found that neither of those positions were meant to be; however, he found himself passionate about the fire service. The Greer Citizen (GC): Tell me the story of how you became a firefighter.

Chuck McCall (CM): I knew I wanted to do something along the lines of public service. It’s a cliché, but I want to help people because if I’m in a bad situation, I’d want someone to do the same for me, to help me in case I needed it. I feel like I’m giving back to the community. I applied to a police department and a fire department, and the police department hired me first. I thought it was meant to be, but in 2003, I left there and went into fire service with a local department. I’ve been at GSP FD for three years.

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GC: What is your favorite part about working at the airport FD? CM: Here at the airport, you get to diversify in a lot of different categories in terms of learning pertaining to aviation and aircraft, such as how to react appropriately to a crash situation. Being a firefighter, you have to know how to handle HAZMAT, weapons of mass destruction, all

these things aboard aircraft. There are so many different disciplines you have to be proficient with. MACY COCHRAN | THE GREER CITIZEN

GC: Does anyone inspire you? CM: Jesus Christ and Gandhi. GC: What challenges do you face as a firefighter? CM: Learning new things on a regular basis that I’m not

Crime Report (Note: All information contained in the following was taken directly from the official incident reports filed by the City of Greer Police Department. All suspects are to be considered innocent until proven guilty in the court of law.)

OPEN CONTAINER

MACY COCHRAN | THE GREER CITIZEN

In recognition of being awarded Firefighter of the Year, Lt. Todd Wilson’s name was added to a plaque that is displayed at the Greer Fire Department.

Centennial Lions Club presents new award To Greer firefighter BY MACY COCHRAN STAFF WRITER The Greer Centennial Lions Club (GCLC) presented a new award at their monthly November 22 meeting. Todd Wilson of Greer Fire Department (GFD) received the inaugural Firefighter of the Year award at Mutt’s BBQ in Greer. Wilson, a lieutenant firefighter, has been serving the community since September of 1996. He has served on various apparatus committees, and most recently served on GFD’s 2020 Tower purchase. “Todd is one of those employees who can always be found doing whatever is needed to ensure the department and its service delivery never wavers,” said Josh Holzheimer, Deputy Fire Chief at

Todd Wilson GFD. “He is a person who can be counted on to help train the new recruits, fix absolutely anything, build anything, and no job is too big for him.” Over the past 26 years that Wilson has served, the fire service has changed a lot, but he has worked diligently through it all. He began as firefighter and was ranked Lieutenant six years ago. “Lt. Todd Wilson is deserving of the Firefighter of the Year Award,” Chief Holzheimer said. Wilson said it is an hon-

or to be awarded Firefighter of the Year and said it is due to his loyalty and dedication to the department. “There’s a lot of comradery at the department. I’ve seen the department grow tremendously,” he said. Wilson thanked Chief Flowers, Deputy Chief Holzheimer, and Battalion Chief Brown, who have walked alongside of him for several years. At the presentation, the GCLC also donated 72 sports balls to the Greer Police Department (GPD). Officers will carry these balls in patrol cars to engage with the youth in the Greer community. “The idea is to bridge the gap with police and our young people,” said Lions member Alison Rauch. Several officers from GPD and members of the Lions Club were present at the event to congratulate Lieutenant Todd Wilson and to recognize GPD for their effort to connect with local youth.

Baron Llewellyn Gallman, 53, of Moore has been charged with Open Container, Driving Under Suspension and Uninsured Motor Vehicle. According to an incident report, on October 10, while on routine patrol in the area of East Wade Hampton Boulevard and Lister Road, an officer observed a white in color Toyota Corolla. A search of the tag through the CAD system showed the registered owner to be suspended. Based on this, the officer initiated a traffic stop. The officer approached the vehicle on the driver’s side and made contact with the driver/sole occupant of the vehicle; the subject was identified as Gallman. The officer then requested driver’s license and proof of insurance. Gallman stated that he didn’t have either of those things with them. When the officer asked again for identification, Gallman produced his SCDL. When he was asked about the insurance, Gallman stated that he did not have any current insurance on the vehicle. The officer then returned to the patrol vehicle to continue the traffic investigation. During this time, Gallman’s driving record was searched using SCDMV online. Gallman was found to be driving under suspension (second offense), based on one prior conviction within the last five years.

really familiar with. I’ll never say I know everything, and there’s so much to learn. I learn something new every day I come into work. Not only is it challenging but also very interesting because I like

Due to this, the officer re-approached the vehicle and requested that Gallman step out. He was then placed under arrest for the above-mentioned traffic offenses. While searching Gallman’s person incident to arrest, the officer detected the odor of alcoholic beverage. When asked if he had been drinking, he responded yes. The officer then looked through the left rear passenger window and saw an open, consumed beer bottle. When Gallman was asked if he had just drunk that, he responded yes. He was then placed into the rear of the patrol vehicle. Inventory prior to tow of the vehicle showed the bottle to be a 12 oz. bottle of Modelo Beer. This bottle was still cold to the touch. Gallman was then transported to the Greer City Jail without any further incident.

PUBLIC DRUNK

Richard Eugene Ballenger Jr., 54, of Greer has been charged with Public Intoxication and Open Container. According to an incident report, on October 16, an officer responded to 1233 W. Wade Hampton Blvd. in reference to a shoplifting. Upon arrival, the officer made contact with a Spinx employees who had the suspect in sight on Chick Springs Road. The officer was patrolling the area of Chick Springs Road and Bent Creek Road and located a male matching the description of the shoplifting suspect. The officer observed the male staggering with an open Miller Lite beer. The officer made contact with Ballenger who had a strong odor of alcoholic beverage coming

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understanding things I otherwise don’t really understand. GC: Are you from this area? CM: I was born and raised here.

from his person, blood shot eyes, consistent with intoxication, and an open Miller Lite over half full and still cold to the touch. Ballenger was placed under arrest and transported to Greer City Jail.

OPEN CONTAINER

Brian J Nolasco, 22, of Greer has been charged with Open Container. According to an incident report, on October 24, around 4 a.m., an officer responded to the Hotspot located at 308 E. Poinsett Street in regards to a welfare check. Upon arrival, the officer noticed a man sleeping in the driver seat of a large black Toyota Pickup truck. The officer also noticed a large amount of vomit on the ground outside of the Toyota truck and on the truck itself which appeared to have come from the driver’s side window. After several attempts to wake up the driver, the driver finally woke up. The officer asked the driver to step outside of his vehicle. Upon the driver exiting the truck, the officer noticed a half empty bottle of Corona sitting in the center console of his vehicle. The officer asked the driver if he could call someone to come and take him home, but he could not get anyone to answer the phone. The man acted very lethargic, had red glassy eyes, stumbled as he sat down and stumbled as he attempted to walk, indicating to the officer that he was under the influence. Due to finding the half empty container of Corona in the center console of Nolasco’s vehicle, the officer placed him under arrest for open container and transported him to the Greer City Jail.

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A8 THE GREER CITIZEN PAGE LABEL

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2022

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