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Welcome to WBCU!
Schedule for today: 6-10:45 a.m.--Union County's Morning Show with Mike Stevens 10:45-11 a.m.--Swap N Shop 11-Noon--Gospel Caravan with Mike Stevens Noon-1 p.m.--Noon Report with Steve Ramsey 1-3 p.m.--Clark Howard Show--call 1-877-872-5275 3-5 p.m.--The Drive With Daniel Prince 5-5:30 p.m.--Union Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep Top Five at 5 5:30-6 p.m.--5:00 Report 6-8 p.m.--SC Sports Talk 8 p.m.-6 a.m.--Today's best country and some hits from yesterday HAPPY BIRTHDAY
TO YOU!!!
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NEW TIMKEN BUILDING GRAND OPENING HELD TODAY Monday, October 6
The new Timken Industrial Service Center of SC held a Grand Opening Ceremony Monday morning at 10 am. Representatives of City, County, and State Government, as well as representatives of other agencies and the media were on hand for the ceremony. After the ceremony, WBCU News spoke to several people beginning with Union Mayor Harold Thompson. Thompson said the city and Timken have put a lot of money into upfitting the building, which started out as a spec building to show off to potential industries looking to locate in Union. He said the city is glad the new building is open, and he believes it will be a big shot in the arm for Union's economy and will provide some jobs. WBCU News also spoke to Union County Supervisor Donnie Betenbaugh, who said the county is also excited to see Timken expanding in the county. He said the company hopes to add 40 jobs to the payroll with the new building. He said the new building and expansion came about as a result of a partnership among many entities: the City of Union, Union County, USDA, Catawba Regional, State Department of Commerce, Broad River Electric, Lockhart Power, and many others. WBCU News spoke to Jay Alexander, who will be plant manager of the new facility, Timken Industrial Service Center of SC. Alexander said they will be remanufacturing the large heavy bearings, which is what the Tyger River plant makes now. He said they have been in this business since the mid-1980s, and have now grown to the point where they can justify moving to their own facility. It will enable the Tyger River plant to have room to grow, and will give this sector of the business room to double their business, as well.
- WOFFORD PARTNERS WITH WBCU AND TEAM ARUBA TO SUPPORT AUTISM RESEARCH Monday, October 6 Wofford Sports Marketing in conjunction with WBCU-AM 1460 and Team Aruba Racing are pleased to announce a special promotion targeted to residents of Union County for the Saturday, November 22 Wofford football game against Furman. The contest will be "Union County Day" at Gibbs Stadium as the Terriers face the Paladins at Noon for a game televised by CSS (Comcast/Charter Sports Southeast). Special discount tickets are on-sale at the WBCU studios in downtown Union for only $10! PLUS, Wofford will donate $5 from every ticket sold through WBCU and other Union County outlets to the local Autism Speaks chapter in support of a charitable organization in your community. The annual contest between Wofford and Furman dates back to 1889 - the first college football game ever played in the state of South Carolina. This will be the 82nd meeting in the series. "We are looking forward to creating an exciting event for the residents of Union County. We get a lot of support from areas outside Spartanburg and we want that to continue to grow. What a better way to watch an exciting football game in a clean family friendly environment and help out a worthwhile cause," said Lenny Mathis, assistant athletic director for marketing and promotions. To purchase tickets, stop by WBCU in downtown Union beginning October 1. Tickets will be on-sale through November 20 at that location. The discount ticket offer is not available on game day at Gibbs Stadium. For complete details, call Wofford Sports Marketing assistant Lisa Cherry at 864-597-4023. - OPEN ENROLLMENT FOR 2009 MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLANS STARTS SOON Monday, October 6
As seniors and others who hold Medicare Parts A and B undergo open enrollment
for their 2009 Medicare Advantage plans Nov. 15–Dec. 31, BlueCross BlueShield of
South Carolina hopes to be able to serve the diverse needs of many additional
members by offering a variety of options statewide. In South Carolina, more than
700,000 Medicare beneficiaries have a choice of about 200 plans being offered by
more than 20 companies, of which S.C. BlueCross is the largest headquartered in
the state. The company will offer three PFFS (private fee for service) plans and
two PPO (preferred provider organization) plans in every county in the state. In
addition, members will be able to join a PFFS plan and pay no premium, as well
as a PPO plan with drug coverage to be offered at no premium in the Upstate and
Midlands regions. The company began marketing today its two statewide PPO
offerings, Medicare BlueSM and Medicare BlueSM Plus. In particular, the company
is providing information for insurance agents statewide to be able to assist
customers. BlueCross will mail information packages and will schedule seminars
in which potential members can learn more about the new plans and benefits
available for 2009. Individuals may call toll-free 1-800-930-2912 (TTY
1-800-681-3846) now to receive more information, and beginning Nov. 15
individuals may enroll by calling that number. “The government only allows a
short time frame for enrollment, just six weeks, so we are prepared to tell
seniors and others on Medicare about the strengths of having a statewide
provider network as an advantage for them,” said S.C. BlueCross BlueShield
Division President David Pankau. “We also are prepared to help them understand
what Medicare Advantage plans are in general. For new enrollees, the options can
be confusing.” Medicare Advantage plans are available from private insurance
companies for people who have Medicare Part A and B. They must offer at least
the same benefit as Medicare, helping to cover some of the costs of medical and
hospital care. BlueCross also offers Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage
both on a stand alone basis as well as built into its Medicare Advantage plans.
In addition, BlueCross is offering additional benefits not routinely covered by
Medicare, including dental, vision and hearing benefits on selective plans. MOBILE HOME IN MONARCH DESTROYED BY FIRE Friday, October 3
The Monarch Volunteer Fire Department responded to a structure fire at approx.
4:30 pm Thursday afternoon. The fire occurred at a residence owned by Patsy
Martin located at 125 Amber Drive- Lot 5 just off Weber Lake Road. Although no
damage estimates were available, the mobile home and everything in it was
totally destroyed by the fire. WBCU News was on the scene and spoke with Dr.
John Flood, Assistant Chief of the Monarch Fire Department and this is his
account of the fire. - BLOOD DRIVE TODAY AT WAL-MART Friday, October 3 You are reminded of the Piedmont Blood Center blood drive that will be held today from 9 am until 5 pm. This drive takes place in the parking lot of Union’s Wal-Mart, and is sponsored by the Hejaz Warriors Unit of the Spartanburg Shrine Club. Those who donate during this blood drive will have an opportunity to win prizes that will be given away courtesy of local merchants. The blood supply is still critically low, and you are urged to give. Remember- only YOU can give the GIFT of LIFE. - PACK 332 HOLDS CHICKEN STEW SALE TOMORROW Friday, October 3 Juanita McCullough, Cubmaster of Cub Scout Pack 332, sponsored by Buffalo Baptist Church, reminds you that Pack 332 will hold a chicken stew sale this Saturday, October 4th. The sale begins at 10 am, and will be held at the upper end of the parking lot at Union’s Wal-Mart. Proceeds from the sale will be used to support winter activities and advancement of Pack 332. - SCDOT EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE FACILITY AWARDED CERTIFICATION Friday, October 3
The SC Department of Transportation ( SCDOT) Equipment Maintenance Facility in
Union County has been awarded 2008 Certification from the State Budget and
Control Board of General Services Fleet Management. Ronald Garner supervises the
SCDOT facility in Union County. “ I’m very proud of the hard work by Ronald
Garner and all the employees at our facility in Union County in achieving
certification from the State Budget and Control Board,” said Secretary of
Transportation H.B. “ Buck” Limehouse, Jr. “ I congratulate them on a job well
done!” The following are the areas reviewed for certification: - REGISTRATION CONTINUES FOR LITTLE MISS UNION COUNTY FAIR Friday, October 3 On Tuesday, October 14th at the Union County Fair, we will hold the annual Little Miss Union County Fair Pageant. Ages 0 to 12 years old will be eligible to compete. The contestants will compete in denim wear and photogenic. No pageant dresses will be accepted, denim wear only. The entry fee is $35 and is due no later than Wednesday, October 8th. A Miss Union County Fair Grand Supreme title will be awarded to the contestant who has the most donations to the Children's Miracle Network at the pageant. Buckets will be available for these donations. The pageant will begin at 6:30 on the stage by the exhibits. Please contact Amanda Ferguson at Sight and Sound Photography for more information concerning this event at 864-427-3262 or 864-426-6536 or email miss.union@yahoo.com. ONE-VEHICLE ACCIDENT INJURES WOMAN ON KELLY ROAD Thursday, October 2
Union County EMS, along with rescue and fire personnel, responded to a single vehicle accident in the 500 block of Kelly Road, Union. WBCU News reported live from the scene. One female subject was in the vehicle and had to be extricated using the Jaws of Life. Witnesses reported the woman was traveling toward Highway 9 on Kelly Road when she lost control of her vehicle. She ran off the left side of the road, got sideways, and crossed back over the highway off the right side of the road, striking a telephone pole broadside, top-first. To remove the victim, rescuers had to remove the top of the vehicle using the Jaws of Life. Ronnie Robertson, director of EMS, told WBCU News the patient was to be transferred via ambulance to Spartanburg Regional Medical Center. Fire personnel, rescue personnel, EMS, and Sheriff's deputies were on the scene. Power to the area was not interrupted, and the telephone pole remained intact. The woman's condition and identity are not known at this time. - BLOOD DRIVE TODAY AT SPARTANBURG SHRINE CLUB Thursday, October 2 The Piedmont Blood Center is hosting a blood drive today, Thursday, October 2, from 9 am until 7 pm at their location at 175 Dunbar Street in Spartanburg, and from 3 pm until 7 pm at the Spartanburg Shrine Club on Fernwood-Glendale Road. All donors will be registered for two sets of tickets that will be given away on Friday, October 3rd for the Dollar General 300 Race at Lowe’s Motor Speedway in Charlotte on Friday, Oct. 10th. You are encouraged to “ RACE in and Save a Life”. The blood supply is still critically low, so if you can, please give. Remember- only you can give the gift of life! If you have any questions, please contact Regina Lambert, Administrative Assistant, at 864-582-6366. - UNION COUNTY DAY ANNOUNCED FOR NOVEMBER 22 WOFFORD-FURMAN GAME Thursday, October 2 Wofford Sports Marketing in conjunction with Radio Station WBCU and Team Aruba Racing are pleased to announce a special promotion targeted to residents of Union County for the Saturday, November 22 Wofford football game against Furman. The contest will be "Union County Day" at Gibbs Stadium as the Terriers face the Paladins at Noon for a game televised by CSS (Comcast/Charter Sports Southeast). Special discount tickets are on-sale at the WBCU studios in downtown Union for only $10! PLUS, Wofford will donate $5 from every ticket sold through WBCU and other Union County outlets to the local Autism Speaks chapter in support of a charitable organization in your community. The annual contest between Wofford and Furman dates back to 1889 - the first college football game ever played in the state of South Carolina. This will be the 82nd meeting in the series. "We are looking forward to creating an exciting event for the residents of Union County. We get a lot of support from areas outside Spartanburg and we want that to continue to grow. What a better way to watch an exciting football game in a clean family friendly environment and help out a worthwhile cause," said Lenny Mathis, assistant athletic director for marketing and promotions. To purchase tickets, stop by WBCU in downtown Union beginning October 1. Tickets will be on-sale through November 20 at that location. The discount ticket offer is not available on game day at Gibbs Stadium. For complete details, call Wofford Sports Marketing assistant Lisa Cherry at 864-597-4023. SATURDAY LAST DAY TO REGISTER TO VOTE FOR NOVEMBER ELECTIONS Wednesday, October 1 Time is running out on local voters who intend to vote in the Nov. 4th General Election, but have failed to register. State election law states that a person must be registered 30 days prior to an election in order to be permitted to participate in that election. Unregistered individuals have until Oct. 4th to register to vote to be eligible for the Nov. 4th election. Oct 4th falls on Saturday, but the Union County Voter Registration Office will open till noon on that date to give the unregistered every opportunity to register in time for the General Election. This will also give those of you who have incorrect information on your voter certificate, which could cost you the privilege to vote, every opportunity to have corrections made. If you need to register, you must visit Voter Registration on East Main Street and apply. If you have an application for registration that you plan to mail, it must be postmarked no later than Oct. 4th to be accepted. If you need to make changes to your voter certificate, you can visit the voter registration office, but you don’t have to. You can make the necessary changes to your certificate over the telephone, and your identity will be verified by you furnishing your social security #. You are urged to make changes if you need to, and register if you have not already done so. As a reminder to the voters of Union County, when you go to the polls to vote, there are only three acceptable forms of identification: a valid voter certificate, a valid SC driver license, or a picture ID issued through the SC Department of Motor Vehicles. - LITTLE MISS UNION COUNTY FAIR PAGEANT OPENS THE FAIR Wednesday, October 1
On Tuesday, October 14th at the Union County Fair, we will hold the annual
Little Miss Union County Fair Pageant. Ages 0 to 12 years old will be eligible
to compete. The contestants will compete in denim wear and photogenic. No
pageant dresses will be accepted, denim wear only. The entry fee is $35 and is
due no later than Wednesday, October 8th. A Miss Union County Fair Grand
Supreme title will be awarded to the contestant who has the most donations to
the Children's Miracle Network at the pageant. Buckets will be available for
these donations. The pageant will begin at 6:30 on the stage by the exhibits.
Please contact Amanda Ferguson at Sight and Sound Photography for more
information concerning this event at 864-427-3262 or 864-426-6536 or email
miss.union@yahoo.com. ELECTRIC CAR ON PATROL ON MAIN STREET Wednesday, October 1
On Friday, Sept. 19th, the Union Public Safety Department took delivery on the electric car that was approved for the department during the 2008-2009 Budget Work sessions. Chief Sam White of UPSD said this particular electric car was manufactured by Global Electric Motor Cars, located in Fargo, ND, and is a part of the Chrysler Motor Company. This car is able to carry 4 passengers, and has a payload capacity of 920 lbs. Six 12-volt rechargeable batteries power the car, and it has a range of around 30 miles per charge. The car features hydraulic brakes, turn signals, headlights, taillights, speedometer, warning flashers, removable doors, and a heater. The electric car is classified as a low-speed, or neighborhood, vehicle. It is intended for use at low speeds of up to 25 mph, and on roads where speed limits are low. The electric car is licensed, registered, and insured, just as a regular car is, with the SC Department of Public Safety. The car has been outfitted with Union Public Safety Markings, and was used on Main Street by Officer Tony Keisler for the 1st time on Tuesday, Sept. 30th. It will now become a regular fixture on Main Street, as Officer Keisler will use the vehicle to patrol Main Street. It will also be used at public events like the fair, football games, 4th of July celebrations, and other events. Chief White said Public Safety is excited about the vehicle, and they look forward to experimenting with it and seeing if there are any other applications that the City of Union may have with electric motor vehicles. - SENIOR CITIZENS' DAY AT THE FAIR SCHEDULED OCTOBER 15 Wednesday, October 1 If you are a Senior Citizen, age 55 and over, you are invited to attend Senior Citizens Day at the Fair. This event takes place at the Union County Fairgrounds on Wednesday, October 15th at 12 noon. There will be free food, entertainment, fellowship, as well as special prize giveaways. The Union County Recreation Department and the Union County Agricultural Fair sponsor this event. For more information, please call Heather Daum at 429-1670. WRECK SENDS TWO TO HOSPITAL Tuesday, September 30 Just after 3:30 p.m. Monday afternoon, there was a 2-car collision at the intersection of Highway 176 and Highway 49. Chris Woodson reported live from the scene of the accident near the Exxon and Little Cricket gas stations. A small SUV and a small sedan were involved in the wreck. One of the vehicles involved overturned. One individual was transferred to Wallace Thomson Hospital, and another was sent to Spartanburg Regional. Union Public Safety officers and firefighters arrived on the scene to help with cleanup and to direct traffic. There is no word on the condition or identity of those involved. - NEW COMMUNITY-BASED OUTPATIENT VA CLINIC OPENS TODAY Tuesday, September 30 The William Jennings Bryan Dorn Department of Veterans Affairs in Columbia is opening a new Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) in Spartanburg on September 30th. The new clinic is located at the North Grove Medical Park at 1330 Boiling Springs Road, Suite 1540. This is a temporary clinic that will provide eligible veterans in the Spartanburg, Cherokee, and Union county areas the highest quality health care services available, closer to their homes. Until now, the closest VA medical facility was Greenville, Columbia, or Asheville. This new temporary location will provide care to approx. 2500 patients. The patients transferring their care from the Greenville Clinic will have 1st priority for receiving care at this location. Veterans not yet enrolled for VA healthcare, who now desire to do so are encouraged to enroll. If the capacity of the Spartanburg CBOC is met, they will be offered care at the Greenville Outpatient Clinic, and their names placed on a waiting list for the Spartanburg Clinic. This temporary clinic is 3,000 square feet, however, the permanent location will be 13,000 square feet. Plans are to open the permanent clinic in the summer of 2009. The clinic hours are 8 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday, excluding Federal Holidays. The new clinic will offer Primary Care, Mental Health, and Social Work Services. ( Anyone now receiving treatment who wants to transfer their treatment to this new facility in Spartanburg- who has not contacted or been contacted by the Union Veteran’s Office, should do so ASAP.) - BLOOD DRIVES THIS WEEK SPONSORED BY SPARTANBURG SHRINE CLUB, HEJAZ WARRIORS UNIT Tuesday, September 30 The Piedmont Blood Center will host a blood drive Thursday, October 2, from 9 am until 7 pm at their location at 175 Dunbar Street in Spartanburg, and from 3 pm until 7 pm at the Spartanburg Shrine Club on Fernwood-Glendale Road. All donors will be registered for two sets of tickets that will be given away on Friday, October 3rd for the Dollar General 300 Race at Lowe’s Motor Speedway in Charlotte on Friday, Oct. 10th. You are encouraged to “ RACE in and Save a Life”. If you have any questions, please contact Regina Lambert, Administrative Assistant, at 864-582-6366. And on Friday, October 3rd, the Piedmont Blood Center will hold a blood drive sponsored by the Hejez Warriors Unit and the Spartanburg Shrine Club. This blood drive will take place from 9am until 5 pm in the Union Wal-Mart parking lot. Remember- the blood supply is STILL critically low, so please give your support and donate. WBCU News spoke to Danny Rogers, of the Hejez warriors. Rogers said other warriors from our area helping with the drive include James Maness, Festus Riding, Charles Lancaster, and Dennis Lancaster. They talked about the critical shortage and need for blood and decided to have a blood drive in Union, because Union's people are strong supporters of donating blood. They have solicited several local businesses to donate prizes, so they can reward some of those who take the time to come and donate. This is the second or third blood drive the Hejaz Warriors have sponsored this year. - LITTLE MISS UNION COUNTY FAIR PAGEANT COMING ON THE FAIR'S OPENING DAY Tuesday, September 30 On Tuesday, October 14th at the Union County Fair, we will hold the annual Little Miss Union County Fair Pageant. Ages 0 to 12 years old will be eligible to compete. The contestants will compete in denim wear and photogenic. No pageant dresses will be accepted, denim wear only. The entry fee is $35 and is due no later than Wednesday, October 8th. A Miss Union County Fair Grand Supreme title will be awarded to the contestant who has the most donations to the Children's Miracle Network at the pageant. Buckets will be available for these donations. The pageant will begin at 6:30 on the stage by the exhibits. Please contact Amanda Ferguson at Sight and Sound Photography for more information concerning this event at 864-427-3262 or 864-426-6536 or email miss.union@yahoo.com. EVERETT LEIGH ANNOUNCES CANDIDACY FOR MAYOR Monday, September 29 On Monday morning, the list of write-in candidates for mayor of the city of Union increased to 10. Everett Leigh, a local Consulting Systems Analyst, made his formal announcement. The following is Mr. Leigh’s statement. "I'm Everett Leigh, and I'd like to announce my candidacy for the write-in in the office of Mayor of the City of Union in the upcoming election. I've lived in Union since 1982, and I've been involved in many community organizations over the years, including the Board of Trustees for the local hospital and nursing home, the Area Agency on Aging, the Chamber of Commerce, and even did my time as the president of the local PTA. I've been honored to have been named as the Union County Small Businessperson of the Year and the Union County Volunteer of the Year by the Union County Chamber of Commerce. I was able to receive my degree from USC by attending USC-Union and got my 4-year degree via independent study. I believe because of my background and experience, it makes me the most qualified candidate to lead Union over the next four years. I'd appreciate your vote and support." - BUFFALO FALL FESTIVAL A SUCCESS Monday, September 29
On Saturday, Sept. 27th, a large crowd attended the inaugural Buffalo Community Fall Festival. It was held on the property where the Buffalo Mill Powerhouse was once located on Highway 215, Main Street Buffalo. Parties R Us was on hand with activities for the children. Roy Glass of Hard Ranch provided Horse and Buggy Rides, and Main Event DJ Gregg Maness provided Music and Karaoke. Miss Teen Union Amber Champion was there, as well as Photographer Billy Liner with Buffalo Memorabilia Photos. There were food vendors, craft vendors, and at 6 pm Jimmy Smith Pickers furnished the entertainment. WBCU News spoke with County Councilman Tommy Ford, one of the organizers of the event. Ford said he was well pleased with the festival. He said they had a pretty good crowd all day long. He thanked everyone who helped with the event. He said he hopes it will become an annual event, and become bigger and better.
- PUNT, PASS, AND KICK WINNERS ANNOUNCED Monday, September 29 The Union County Recreation Department held the NFL and Pepsi Punt, Pass, and Kick Competition on Saturday, September 27th beginning at 10 am. The Competition was held at Union County Stadium and was for boys and girls ages 8 through 15. WBCU News spoke to Becky Cobb, Director of the Union County Recreation Department, and she gave a rundown of the local winners. Riley Shropshire won for the 8-9 year old girls. In the 10-11-year old girls category, Kendall Henderson won, with Adelaide Adamo finishing 2nd, and Dexlie Inman finishing 3rd. In the 8-9 year old boys category, Kalan Benvenuti won, with Kenneth Tucker, Jr., in 2nd, and Bentley Burr in 3rd. For the 10-11-year old boys, Clint Smallwood won, and Devon Grady placed 2nd. For the 12-13-year old boys, Andrew Adamo won, with Nick Turner placing 2nd, and Tristan Armstrong finishing 3rd. Dane Jackson was the winner for the 14-15-year old boys. The winners will compete for the district championship in Pickens, with those winners then advancing to the state finals, and eventually having a competition at halftime at a Carolina Panthers football game. - COMMUNITY-BASED OUTPATIENT VA CLINIC TO OPEN IN SPARTANBURG Monday, September 29 The William Jennings Bryan Dorn Department of Veterans Affairs in Columbia is opening a new Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) in Spartanburg on September 30th. The new clinic is located at the North Grove Medical Park at 1330 Boiling Springs Road, Suite 1540. This is a temporary clinic that will provide eligible veterans in the Spartanburg, Cherokee, and Union county areas the highest quality health care services available, closer to their homes. Until now, the closest VA medical facility was Greenville, Columbia, or Asheville. This new temporary location will provide care to approx. 2500 patients. The patients transferring their care from the Greenville Clinic will have 1st priority for receiving care at this location. Veterans not yet enrolled for VA healthcare, who now desire to do so are encouraged to enroll. If the capacity of the Spartanburg CBOC is met, they will be offered care at the Greenville Outpatient Clinic, and their names placed on a waiting list for the Spartanburg Clinic. This temporary clinic is 3,000 square feet, however, the permanent location will be 13,000 square feet. Plans are to open the permanent clinic in the summer of 2009. The clinic hours are 8 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday, excluding Federal Holidays. The new clinic will offer Primary Care, Mental Health, and Social Work Services. UNION MAYORAL CANDIDATES HAVE THEIR SAY Friday, September 26 Over 100 people attended a Political Forum that was held Thursday night at 7 pm in the auditorium of USC-Union. WBCU broadcast the event live. The forum featured five of the individuals who have publicly announced their write-in candidacies for the position of Mayor of Union. Those participating in the forum were: Don Shetley, Harold Thompson, Zari Rice, Torrance Inman, and Hutch Hall.Those promoting this forum were: Katherine Pendergrass, Owner and Operator of Liberty Tax Service, Angela Vassey, local Real Estate Appraiser, as well as Dr. Hugh Rowland, Dean of USC-Union. The candidates were given the opportunity to answer 2 random questions each that each candidate pulled from a basket containing 16 questions. Before concluding the forum, each candidate was given the opportunity to tell those in attendance and the radio audience why they felt they should be elected Mayor of Union. WBCU News spoke to Katherine Pendergrass, who was moderator for the event, and asked her opinion of the forum. Pendergrass said she came up with the idea for the forum one night while talking to her husband about all the candidates who had declared their intention to run. She said she didn't know much about the candidates, and felt others might be in that same situation. Pendergrass said though she doesn't live in the city and thus can't vote in the mayoral race, she said people need to be informed voters. The only way to do that, she said, is to get the candidates together, to observe them and listen to them, and then decide your vote. She thanked her committee, which included Dr. Hugh Rowland, dean at USC-Union, Angela Vassey, a local realtor, and her husband all came on board to organize the event. She thanked everyone who turned out for the forum, and thanked the candidates, as well. She said she was impressed with their answers on the questions that were randomly chosen to ask them. She said the turnout and the overall results made her excited to be involved in the community. - INAUGURAL BUFFALO COMMUNITY FALL FESTIVAL SATURDAY Friday, September 26 You are invited to attend the inaugural Buffalo Community Fall Festival. The event takes place on Saturday, Sept. 27th from noon until??? It will be held on the property where the Buffalo Mill Powerhouse was once located on Highway 215, Main Street Buffalo. Parties R Us will have: 24 ft. Double Lane Accelerator Slide, 16 ft. Rock Wall, Trackless Train, and a Bounce Castle. Roy Glass of Hard Ranch will provide Horse and Buggy Rides, and Main Event DJ Gregg Maness will provide Music and Karaoke. ( With 3 pm until 5 pm being Open Mic, your opportunity to bring you’re your instruments or your cd’s and sing and perform.) Miss Teen Union Amber Champion will be there, as well as Photographer Billy Liner with Buffalo Memorabilia Photos. There will be food vendors, craft vendors, and at 6 pm entertainment will be furnished by Jimmy Smith Pickers. For more information concerning this event, please contact Jimmy Maness at 426-4457 or 427-5266. - PUNT, PASS, AND KICK CONTEST TOMORROW Friday, September 26 The Union County Recreation Department will host the NFL and Pepsi Punt, Pass, and Kick Competition on Saturday, September 27th beginning at 10 am. The Competition will be held at Union County Stadium and is for boys and girls ages 8 through 15. The age cutoff date is December 31st, 2008. Pre-registration is required at the Recreation Department by Friday, September 26th, 2008. NO FOOTBALL CLEATS ALLOWED. To register, you must have a parent or guardian present, and you must have a birth certificate. There is no fee required to participate. For more information, please contact the Union County Recreation Department at 864-429-1670. - ROSE HILL PRESENTS HEIRLOOM GARDENING TOMORROW Friday, September 26 Rose Hill Plantation State Historic Site presents “ Heirloom Gardening- The Fall Garden’ this Saturday, Sept. 27th, from 10:30 am until 2:30 pm. Rose Hill Plantation was more than just a large producer of cash crops in the Upstate. The people living and working there had to eat too, and gardens were a significant component of Plantation life. Come and see firsthand the preparation and planting in a spring and summer garden. Heirloom vegetables are those that are open pollinated, reproduce themselves from seed, and are at least fifty years old from the time of first introduction. Modern hybrid vegetables do not reproduce well from their own seeds, and so specialized seeds must be purchased each planting season. Come and see a Master Gardener discussing plot preparation, planting techniques, plant selections, growing techniques, and learn more about the opportunity to explore the past, from a perspective we all can understand: the growing of foodstuffs our ancestors ate, the diet of the past, and the varieties that have stood the test of time. The focus of this program will be the selection and planting of spring and summer vegetables. The cost of the program is $5.00 per person, and attendance is limited to the first 40 to register. The program will begin at 10:30 AM, at the garden behind the kitchen house to the rear of the Gist Mansion. For more information about this program, the park, the Gist Mansion, or to register for this event call: Rose Hill Plantation State Historic Site at: 864.427.5966. MONARCH MAN INJURED IN HOUSE FIRE Thursday, September 25
- WBCU TO BROADCAST MAYORAL CANDIDATES' FORUM TONIGHT Thursday, September 25 The public is invited to attend a Political Forum that will be held tonight at 7 pm in the auditorium of USC-Union. The forum will feature those individuals who have publicly announced their write-in candidacies for the position of Mayor of Union. Those promoting this forum are: Katherine Pendergrass, Owner and Operator of Liberty Tax Service, Angela Vassey, local Real Estate Appraiser, as well as Dr. Hugh Rowland, Dean of USC-Union. Questions have been solicited from the public, and to assure that no candidate is advantaged, only questions from the Moderator will be permitted the night of the forum. The questions for each candidate will be chosen randomly, and none of the questions will be known to any candidate before hand. Each candidate has been required to submit written biographical material that will appear in the program. WBCU News spoke to Dr. Rowland, and these were his comments concerning the forum. Dr. Rowland said the university was delighted when Pendergrass and Vassey approached them to host this event. The goal is to promote critical dialogue, educate the citizens as to who the candidates are, and to promote integrity and character. He said these goals match up with the education goals of USC-Union, particularly the emphasis on integrity and character. - ROSE HILL PRESENTS HEIRLOOM GARDENING SATURDAY Thursday, September 25 Rose Hill Plantation State Historic Site presents “ Heirloom Gardening- The Fall Garden’ this Saturday, Sept. 27th, from 10:30 am until 2:30 pm. Rose Hill Plantation was more than just a large producer of cash crops in the Upstate. The people living and working there had to eat too, and gardens were a significant component of Plantation life. Come and see firsthand the preparation and planting in a spring and summer garden. Heirloom vegetables are those that are open pollinated, reproduce themselves from seed, and are at least fifty years old from the time of first introduction. Modern hybrid vegetables do not reproduce well from their own seeds, and so specialized seeds must be purchased each planting season. Come and see a Master Gardener discussing plot preparation, planting techniques, plant selections, growing techniques, and learn more about the opportunity to explore the past, from a perspective we all can understand: the growing of foodstuffs our ancestors ate, the diet of the past, and the varieties that have stood the test of time. The focus of this program will be the selection and planting of spring and summer vegetables. The cost of the program is $5.00 per person, and attendance is limited to the first 40 to register. The program will begin at 10:30 AM, at the garden behind the kitchen house to the rear of the Gist Mansion. For more information about this program, the park, the Gist Mansion, or to register for this event call: Rose Hill Plantation State Historic Site at: 864.427.5966. LOCKHART POWER CLAIMS TROUBLE GAINING ACCESS TO SOME LOCKHART METERS Wednesday, September 24 The Lockhart Town Council held their regular monthly meeting Tuesday at 7 pm at Lockhart Town Hall. In old business, Mayor Pro Tem Robert Lawson reported to the council that the Town had received the fireproof file cabinet from the Quill Co. at a cost of $1,070.80. According to Lawson, the Town has also purchased a set of hedge trimmers approved in a prior meeting at a cost of $304.95 from Union Power Equipment Company. The final item discussed under Old Business dealt with the purchase of 10-trash receptacles from Chester County for $25 each or a total cost of $250. Lockhart residents who are in need of a trash receptacle will be able to purchase one of these for $30. In new business, Council approved a motion to purchase a $75 ad for the Lockhart School yearbook. Lawson advised Council that a complaint had been received from Lockhart Power Company concerning a problem reading meters on Canal Street and South 1st Street. The Town of Lockhart contracts with Lockhart Power to read their water meters when the power meters are read. The meter reader for Lockhart Power informed Town officials that problems that need to be addressed exist in gaining access to meters on these streets. Lawson stated that the Town has sent letters to the residents asking that the problems be corrected. The next regular meeting for the Lockhart town Council is scheduled for Tuesday, October 28th at 7 pm. - NFL AND PEPSI PUNT, PASS, AND KICK COMPETITION SET FOR SATURDAY Wednesday, September 24 The Union County Recreation Department will host the NFL and Pepsi Punt, Pass, and Kick Competition on Saturday, September 27th beginning at 10 am. The Competition will be held at Union County Stadium and is for boys and girls ages 8 through 15. The age cutoff date is December 31st, 2008. Pre-registration is required at the Recreation Department by Friday, September 26th, 2008. NO FOOTBALL CLEATS ALLOWED. To register, you must have a parent or guardian present, and you must have a birth certificate. There is no fee required to participate. For more information, please contact the Union County Recreation Department at 864-429-1670. - JOHN ROBBINS HONORED AS AMBASSADOR FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Wednesday, September 24
A Union County man has been honored by the Department of Commerce and Gov. Mark
Sanford. Gov. Mark Sanford and the Department of Commerce as part of South
Carolina’s 18th Annual Industry Appreciation Week honored John N. Robbins as
Ambassador for Economic Development. The ceremony took place in Columbia on
Monday, September 15, at the Governor’s Mansion Complex, and highlighted 49
individuals from 46 counties for their exceptional efforts to bolster community
and economic development activities in South Carolina. SCHOOL BOARD TO OPEN LIGHTING BIDS FOR TRACK OCTOBER 3RD Tuesday, September 23 The Union County Board of School Trustees met Monday at 7 pm at the Union County Career and Technology Center. In the Superintendent’s Report, Dr. David Eubanks advised the board that a request had been received to hold the 2009 Commencement Exercises for Union County High School outdoors. Dr. Eubanks told the board that administration would honor that request if at all possible. He also informed the board that bids for lighting around the high school track would be opened on Oct. 3rd, and that the Oct. 13th board meeting will be held at the new Jonesville K-8 School construction site. In other business, the board unanimously approved a request from Ralph Lawson, Union County High School Drama Teacher, to allow his UCHS GT Drama group to take an overnight field trip to New York City during Spring Break, April 4th through 9th, 2009, with the trip being financed through various student and parent sponsored fund raising efforts. Board members had the opportunity to meet new foreign language teachers who this year began teaching students French and Spanish at the elementary and middle school level. - FIRST BUFFALO COMMUNITY FALL FESTIVAL SATURDAY Tuesday, September 23 You are invited to attend the inaugural Buffalo Community Fall Festival. The event takes place on Saturday, Sept. 27th from noon-until. It will be held on the property where the Buffalo Mill Powerhouse was once located on Highway 215, Main Street Buffalo. Parties R Us will have: 24 ft. Double Lane Accelerator Slide, 16 ft. Rock Wall, Trackless Train, and a Bounce Castle. Roy Glass of Hard Ranch will provide Horse and Buggy Rides, and Main Event DJ Gregg Maness will provide Music and Karaoke. ( With 3 pm until 5 pm being Open Mic, your opportunity to bring you’re your instruments or your cd’s and sing and perform.) Miss Teen Union Amber Champion will be there, as well as Photographer Billy Liner with Buffalo Memorabilia Photos. There will be food vendors, craft vendors, and at 6 pm entertainment will be furnished by Jimmy Smith Pickers. For more information concerning this event, please contact Jimmy Maness at 426-4457 or 427-5266. - PUBLIC SAFETY RECEIVES ELECTRIC CAR Tuesday, September 23
On Friday, Sept. 19th, the Union Public Safety Department took delivery on the electric car that was approved for the department during the 2008-2009 Budget Work sessions. Chief Sam White of UPSD took WBCU News for a spin in the vehicle to show first hand how the vehicle performs. Afterwards we talked with Chief White about the department’s plans for the vehicle, and he gave the following information concerning the vehicle. Chief White said this particular electric car was manufactured by Global Electric Motor Cars, located in Fargo, ND, and is a part of the Chrysler Motor Company. This car is able to carry 4 passengers, and has a payload capacity of 920 lbs. Six 12-volt rechargeable batteries power the car, and it has a range of around 30 miles per charge. The car features hydraulic brakes, turn signals, headlights, taillights, speedometer, warning flashers, removable doors, and a heater. The electric car is classified as a low-speed, or neighborhood, vehicle. It is intended for use at low speeds of up to 25 mph, and on roads where speed limits are low. The electric car is licensed, registered, and insured, just as a regular car is, with the SC Department of Public Safety. The car will chiefly be used on Main Street by Officer Tony Keasler, but it will also be used at public events like the fair, football games, 4th of July celebrations, and other events. Chief White said Public Safety is excited about the vehicle, and they look forward to experimenting with it and seeing if there are any other applications that the City of Union may have with electric motor vehicles. - WORKFORCE INVESTMENT BOARD TO HOST E-BAY WORKSHOP Tuesday, September 23 With enough interest from the community, the Upstate Workforce Investment Board will once again bring an EBay workshop to Union. EBay is an online auction website that offers entrepreneurs a virtual marketplace for buying and selling goods. Arianne Salandy will teach this workshop. Arianne is a graduate student of Winthrop University and a small business consultant in Winthrop University’s Small Business Development Center. Anyone interested in participating in this workshop should call Beth Fowler at (864) 427-4119 (TTY: 711) or email bfowler@upstatewib.org by October 6, 2008. Individuals may also stop by Union CareerSource at 103 West Main Street to express interest in attending this workshop. If enough interest exists the workshop will be scheduled later in October. The Upstate Workforce Investment Board is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aides and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.
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Union
The
Monarch Volunteer Fire Department responded to a structure fire Wednesday night
at approx. 8:15 pm. The fire occurred at a residence located at 1413 Lockhart
Highway in Monarch. WBCU News was on the scene and Monarch Fire Chief Larry
Robinson told WBCU that an unidentified white male subject, who was not
breathing, was rescued from the structure and transported by Union County EMS to
WTH, suffering from smoke inhalation. The extent of his injuries was unknown at
that time, however, we do know that the SRMC helicopter Air 1 was called for but
was on another emergency flight, so Med Trans was called to respond from
Greenville. Their ETA was 20 mins. and EMS transported the victim to WTH for
stabilization treatment. Med Trans landed at City Park, and at 9:35 pm,
airlifted the victim, whose condition is classified as criticaL, to SRMC for
treatment. Monarch received aid from Southside and Philippi Volunteer Fire
Departments as well as the City of Union Fire Department. There were no injuries
to any firefighters reported. 
