2009 McLeod Health Dixie Youth Baseball AAA (Minors) State Tournament

Tournament website: www.2009scdybstatetournament.com

Tickets: $6 adults , $3 children ages 7-12 , 6 and Under FREE
Tournament pass: $20

All games will be played at Freedom Florence Complex in Florence.

Saturday, July 25
Opening Ceremonies 2:30 pm
Game 1: North Myrtle Beach vs Dillon 4 pm
Game 2: Parks Field American vs Rock Hill National 4 pm
Game 4: Bishopville vs Pineview 6 pm
Game 5: Gregg Park vs Sumter American 6 pm
Game 3: Maple Park vs Seneca 8 pm
Game 6: Hilton Head American vs Mid Carolina 8 pm
Sunday, July 26
Home Run Derby (Freedom Florence lower complex) 1 pm
Game 7: Elimination Game L1 vs L2 3:30 pm
Game 8: Elimination Game L3 vs L4 3:30 pm
Game 9: Elimination Game L5 vs L6 5:30 pm
Game 10: Winners' Game W5 vs W6 5:30 pm
Game 11: Winners' Game W3 vs W4 7:30 pm
Game 12: Winners' Game W1 vs W2 7:30 pm
Monday, July 27
Game 13: Elimination Game W8 vs W9 5:30 pm
Game 14: Elimination Game W7 vs L11 5:30 pm
Game 15: Elimination Game L10 vs L12 7:30 pm
Game 16: Winners' Game W11 vs W12 7:30 pm
Tuesday, July 28
Game 17: Elimination Game W13 vs W14 5:30 pm
Game 18: Elimination Game W15 vs L16 6:30 pm
Game 19: Winners' Game W10 vs W16 7:30 pm
Wednesday, July 29
Game 20: Elimination Game W18 vs L19 5:30 pm
Game 21: Possible Elimination Game W17 vs W19 7:30 pm
Thursday, July 30
Game 22: Championship Game 10 am
Game 23: If Necessary Championship Game 4 pm


2009 McLeod Health Dixie Youth Baseball Majors State Tournament
Saturday, July 25
Opening Ceremonies 2:30 pm
Game 1: York Central vs Surfside Beach 4 pm
Game 2: Hampton/Varnville vs Gregg Park 4 pm
Game 4: Walhalla vs Lake Marion 6 pm
Game 5: Parks Field American vs Hartsville National 6 pm
Game 3: Midlands vs McLeod Park 8 pm
Game 6: Maple Park vs Laurens 8 pm
Sunday, July 26
Home Run Derby (Freedom Florence lower complex) 1 pm
Game 7: Elimination Game L1 vs L2 4 pm
Game 8: Elimination Game L3 vs L4 4 pm
Game 9: Elimination Game L5 vs L6 6 pm
Game 10: Winners' Game W5 vs W6 6 pm
Game 11: Winners' Game W3 vs W4 8 pm
Game 12: Winners' Game W1 vs W2 8 pm
Monday, July 27
Game 13: Elimination Game W8 vs W9 6 pm
Game 14: Elimination Game W7 vs L11 6 pm
Game 15: Elimination Game L10 vs L12 8 pm
Game 16: Winners' Game W11 vs W12 8 pm
Tuesday, July 28
Game 17: Elimination Game W13 vs W14 6 pm
Game 18: Elimination Game W15 vs L16 7 pm
Game 19: Winners' Game W10 vs W16 8 pm
Wednesday, July 29
Game 20: Elimination Game W18 vs L19 6 pm
Game 21: Possible Elimination Game W17 vs W19 8 pm
Thursday, July 30
Game 22: Championship Game 1 pm
Game 23: If Necessary Championship Game 7 pm

ALL GAMES PLAYED AT FREEDOM FLORENCE COMPLEX in Florence, SC

Tickets: $6 adults , $3 children ages 7-12 , 6 and Under FREE
Tournament pass: $20

Company will expand presence in South Carolina with a capital investment of more than $100 million and 250 new jobs

FLORENCE, S.C. – Florence County Economic Development Partnership (FCEDP) and North Eastern Strategic Alliance (NESA) announced today that Johnson Controls, Inc. plans to build a new battery recycling facility in Florence, S.C. The facility is expected to represent a capital investment of more than $100 million and create 250 new jobs.

The announcement was made by Alex Molinaroli, President for Johnson Controls Power Solutions, along with South Carolina State Senators Hugh K. Leatherman and Yancey McGill; Rusty Smith, Chairman of Florence County Council; Frank James, Vice Chairman of the Florence County Economic Development Partnership; Hank Taylor, Senior Project Manager with the South Carolina Department of Commerce, and other state and local leaders.

Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Johnson Controls is a global Fortune 100 company with leadership positions in automotive interiors, building efficiency, and power solutions. The company already provides more than 1,000 jobs in the nearby region, including at its distribution center in Florence and a manufacturing facility in Oconee.

Johnson Controls’ Power Solutions business is the world’s leading supplier of automotive batteries, the leading independent provider of hybrid battery systems, and also a recognized leader in closed-loop, automotive battery recycling. Johnson Controls has been instrumental in making automotive batteries the most recycled consumer product in the United States.

“The proposed Florence facility will be the most innovative battery recycling operation in the world,” said Alex Molinaroli. “Our closed-loop system is state-of-the-art in terms of environmental controls, conforming well within all federal, state and local environmental regulations.”

"In today's highly competitive global economy, our state's ability to attract new jobs and investment is critical. Today's announcement is certainly an indication of our success in that regard. As well, this news is a reminder of the importance of focusing our efforts on improving the business climate here with fundamental reforms that encourage economic growth. We remain committed to continuing these efforts to encourage growth and create opportunity for more South Carolinians while helping companies like Johnson Controls be more competitive during these challenging times," said Gov. Mark Sanford.

“Johnson Controls is a world-class company and a leader in the automotive supply sector and in providing energy efficient products and services for buildings. Johnson Controls has previously invested in South Carolina, and it is gratifying to see them do so again. The company’s decision to locate its new battery recycling plant in South Carolina speaks to the strength of our workforce, the attractiveness of our business-friendly climate and our excellent market access. We appreciate the commitment Johnson Controls has made to the Palmetto State with this announcement,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce.

“We welcome the expansion of Johnson Controls’ presence in the Pee Dee,” said State Senator Hugh K. Leatherman. “We welcome the jobs and the investment, but most particularly we welcome this great global company that has already demonstrated that it is a solid citizen of our state.”
Johnson Controls’ new facility in Florence will be located on a 270-acre site that is near other major corporate leaders such as Roche Carolina, DuPont, and Smurfit-Stone. The property is off US-76 on Paper Mill Road, and the company plans to develop approximately 36 acres for its facility and parking, leaving the remaining acreage undeveloped. Portions of the site will be permanently protected through a conservation easement.

During today’s announcement, Molinaroli referenced his own upbringing in South Carolina. “I grew up in Charleston and I graduated from USC. I know first-hand that South Carolinians care about hard work, giving back to their communities, and protecting their natural environment. We share those commitments. That’s why our company feels at home here.”

Molinaroli noted that Johnson Controls will be hosting a public meeting to discuss the facility in greater detail, answer questions and get feedback from the public. The Public Meeting will be held Monday, June 15 at 6 p.m. at the Southeastern Institute of Manufacturing and Technology. “We want to be good neighbors and good citizens,” said Molinaroli. “The best way to do that is by engaging the public throughout our planning process. This will be the first of what we hope will be a series of meetings with the public.”

Dr. Charles Gould, chairman of the Florence County Economic Development Partnership, praised Johnson Controls’ expansion decision and the public process described by Molinaroli. “This company is committed to doing things right. We are going to do everything we can to make this important expansion a great success. The collaboration exhibited by all parties involved in this project exemplifies what teamwork is all about.”

“Having a global leader like Johnson Controls make another significant investment in this community reaffirms the qualified and diverse skill-sets of our great citizens, and the pro-business climate that continues to attract world-class companies” said Florence County Council Chairman K.G. “Rusty” Smith. “We are excited and pleased to continue the outstanding partnership that has been developed between Florence County and Johnson Controls.”

RedWolves Notebook

The RedWolves remind all of our fans about the big start up week for the 2009 season. Come out Tuesday night from 6-8pm to meet the RedWovles players and coaches. The Thursday night is the 2009 home opener against rival Fayetteville. Saturday's game is Little League night, all players and coaches wearing their team uniform get in for only $1. There will be inflateables for the kids from 6-8pm.

Listen to all the RedWolves road games on your computer by logging onto Florenceredwolves.com and click on the webpass icon at the bottom of the page for instructions on how you can catch all the out of town games.

The 2009 RedWolves camp will begin June 15th. You can download a registration form off the RedWovles website and mail it in to book your spot.

RedWolves Notebook

The RedWolves season is just around the corner. The annual media/fan night on Tuesday May 26th from 6-8pm at American Legion Field. Come out and meet the 2009 players and get your tickets for the home opener against the rival Fayetteville Swampdogs on Thursday May 28th at 7:30. There will be parachute jumpers before the game and fireworks after. Magnet schedules, sponsored by the South Carolina National Guard will be given away at the gate.

The RedWolves are still taking applications for the 2009 Summer camp the week of June 15th. Go to www.florenceredwolves.com to download your sign up form.

The RedWolves announce the signing of Sam DiMatteo a 5'11" 175lb Jr OF/C from California University of Pennsylvania.

Florence Sex Offender Sent to Prison for Failing to Register

United States Attorney W. Walter Wilkins stated today that Rakeem Lavone Everett, age 30, of Florence, South Carolina, was sentenced in federal court for failing to register as a sex offender, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2250(a). United States District Judge Terry L. Wooten of Florence sentenced Everett to 26 months imprisonment, followed by three years supervised release.

Evidence established that in March 1998, Everett was convicted of endangering the welfare of a child in New Jersey and designated as a sex offender. Everett failed to maintain or update his registration as a sex offender as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. In May 2008, New Jersey authorities requested the assistance of the United States Marshal Service in South Carolina in apprehending Everett, and he was arrested in Florence on June 4, 2008. Everett admitted he failed to notify New Jersey authorities that he was moving, and failed to register in South Carolina as a sex offender when he settled in the state.

The case was investigated by agents of the United States Marshal Service. Assistant United States Attorney William E. Day, II, of the Florence office handled the case.

RedWolves notebook

The RedWolves announce the signing of three players as conditional players for the start of the 2009 season. Local players Michael Calhoun 5'9" 200lb Jr. 1B/OF from Brevard College (The Byrnes School) and John Taylor 5'10" 165lb So. RHP/UTL from Florence Darlington Tech (Wilson High) along with USC's Curtis Murphy 6'3" 210lb RS Jr. 1B/3B will be pivotal additions to the RedWolves roster to help get the team off to a strong start. "Getting of to a good start in this league is very important". "Knowing each season that some of your roster will not be here at the beginning due to post season play, it is important to find players that have the talent and the willingness to come in play in their spots can help determine a teams direction for the whole season".

"For the fans we want to put a good product on the field every game and now more motivation is the fact that the league has gone to a playoff format and the first half winners of each division automatically get to host the first round playoff game". "We are fortunate that we have some local players that can come in and help us, Calhoun and Taylor are excited to be a part of the team and we are excited to have them". "Murphy kind of fell in our lap after our roster was already full, but he is willing to come in as a conditional to be a part of our team and obviously having another Carolina player on the roster doesn't hurt either from a fan standpoint".

The RedWolves have one block of games still available for this summer for a local non-profit group to come in an work and earn money for their organization. If you group is interested in information on these dates and how the program works, call the RedWolves office at 629-0700. The block of games will be assigned on a first come first serve basis.

The 2009 pocket schedules have hit the streets. Check out your favorite local business and pick one up to get all the details of the RedWolves thirty game home season.

Lee 2nd Feature Win at Florence Motor Speedway!

$5 For the Ladies May 8th!
Timmonsville, SC (May 5, 2009, 2009) – 2008 Late Model Champion Jamey Lee won a second John Newsome GM Superstore Late Model feature after a battle with Storm Altman with Justin Shorter a strong third. Kent Harper came home the winner in the Super Stock feature after racing hard, Ricky Locklair Jr. and Steve Evans.

Bobby Tumbleston III was victorious in the 4 Cylinder Stock feature that was, very competitive with Russ Turner falling out with a blown engine. Kevin Jackson, Leon Vinson, B.J. White and Todd Chappell made failing attempts for the win, but will have to respond next week with better.

Brandon Seals won his first Young Gun feature of the season.

You’ll see more exciting races of Late Models, Super Stocks, Stock 4's, Chargers, Road Warriors, and Young Guns on May 8th when the talent takes to the track at 8:30 pm. All the ladies will be admitted for just $5 with adult general admission at $12, 8 thru 12, just $3 and under, 8 are free. Plus, there’s a special family admission package, mom dad and all your kids just $20 for the whole family. Seniors over 60 tickets are only $8.

Come on out and experience the excitement of Stock Car Racing “Southern Style” at Florence Motor Speedway! For more information, visit www.florencemotorspeedway.com.

3 S.C. Men Indicted on Federal Civil Rights Charges

The Justice Department announced today that a federal grand jury in Florence, S.C., indicted three men from Marlboro County, S.C., on charges relating to their attack on an African-American man and two white men in December 2007.

Thomas Howard Blue Sr., 48, Thomas Howard Blue Jr., 28, and Judson Hartley Talbert, 34, were charged in a 21-count indictment with violating and conspiracy to violate the civil rights of three South Carolina citizens, carjacking, use of fire to commit a felony, use of a firearm in relation to a crime of violence, evidence tampering and grand jury perjury. Each civil rights count carries a sentence of up to 10 years in prison and $250,000 fine. A trial has not yet been scheduled. An indictment is merely an accusation and defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.

The grand jury charged that Thomas Howard Blue Sr. forcibly escorted Dahndre Moore out of his establishment known as the Stop and Shop because Moore is African-American. Once outside, Thomas Howard Blue Sr. forced Moore to the ground and Thomas Howard Blue Jr. threatened Moore with a chainsaw. While Moore was being attacked by the father and son, Judson Hartley Talbert stole Moore’s car and drove it to a site along the Great Pee Dee River known as Blue’s Landing. After being chased by the Blues, Moore escaped by running up the road and seeking refuge in a local home.

According to the indictment, Thomas Howard Blue Sr. retrieved a pistol and attacked Jackson Hayes, a white man whom Blue believed to be aiding Moore, and used the pistol to threaten another white man, Jamie Gray, who came to the Stop and Shop to retrieve Moore’s car. Thomas Howard Blue Sr. and Judson Hartley later burnt Moore’s car in an attempt to cover up their crimes. The indictment also alleges the three defendants committed perjury when testifying before a federal grand jury that was investigating the incident.

The case is being investigated by FBI Special Agent Steven Stokes with assistance from Special Agent Jeff Key of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and Investigator Shawn Feldner of the Marlboro County Sheriff’s Department.

Assistant U.S. Attorney A. Bradley Parham and Civil Rights Division Trial Attorney Michael J. Frank are prosecuting this case.

RedWolves Notebook

The Florence RedWolves announce the signing of four Francis Marion Patriots to the 2009 roster. Barrett Kleinknecht, 6ft 195lb Jr. RHP/Infielder and Austin Smetana a 6ft 200lb Redshirt Fr. Utility player will return to the team this summer after successful 2008 campaigns. They will be joined by teammates Preston Shuey a 6'5" 245lb So. 1st baseman and Brandon Forshee a 6ft 190lb Jr. RHP.

The RedWolves remind kids ages 6-15 to sign up for their 2009 summer camp to be held June 15-18. Camp cost is $80 and is taught by the 2009 RedWolves players and coaches. Sign up forms can be downloaded at florenceredwolves.com or a form can be picked up at All Star Sports.

The RedWolves are also taking reservations for team/birthday parties during their 2009 home schedule. Call the RedWolves office for more information and to book your outing at 629-0700

There are still a few season box seats available for the 2009 season, cost is $135 for 30 home games. General admission ticket books will be available for purchase starting May 8th. Call or come by the RedWolves office at American Legion Field to purchase tickets to see your Florence RedWolves play this summer.

RedWolves Notebook

The Florence RedWolves announce the signing of three players from Clemson for the 2009 season. David Haselden a 6'3" 230lb Fr RHP, Kyle Deese a 6'2" 200lb Redshirt Fr. RHP, and Tomas Cruz a 5'10" 190lb Jr. RHP will be manning the hill for RedWolves this summer

The RedWolves are proud to announce that the fans will once again have several opportunities to help out local charitable organizations during the 2009 season. June 15th will be Harvest Hope Food Bank night, June 23rd will be Homer's Birthday donation night for the Florence Area Humane Society. June 27th will be NASCAR night with a silent auction being held to raise funds for local NASCAR legend Sam Ard. On July 7th it will be Christmas in July donation night for the Salvation Army and July 24th will be Emergency Personnel appreciation night with donations of teddy bears for the emergency organizations. All of these donation nights will allow fans to bring items for these groups and receive discount admission prices to the game. "We are very proud of the donations that we have compiled over the past few years for these organizations." "The RedWolves fans have responded to our call and have taken advantage of the discounts that we offer." "The team plans on continuing to help out and use our games as a stage to help these groups for seasons to come, we encourage our fans to help us increase the donations amounts again this year as they have done each previous season."

Clemson student receives national honor society service award

CLEMSON — Margaret Hearon of Florence, a senior majoring in communication studies at Clemson University, received the 2009 Omicron Delta Kappa (ODK) Eldridge W. Roark Jr. Meritorious Service Award.

The Eldridge W. Roark Jr. Meritorious Service Award is given to four members nationally every year for recognition of varied and meritorious service to the ODK society.

Hearon joined ODK in the fall of 2007 and was elected president for the 2008-2009 academic year. She has been actively involved in restructuring and advancing Clemson’s ODK circle. ODK contributes to several campus-wide service events and leadership initiatives, including donations to Clemson’s Student Memorial Fund, the Unity Project, Relay for Life and the Women’s Leadership Conference. Hearon gained recognition for ODK as a prestigious honor society around campus.

“Margaret is a pleasure to work with. She championed ODK and its causes in a very special way. She will do very well in the future,” said Jim Morris, faculty adviser of Clemson’s ODK circle.

Hearon served as vice president of the Student Alumni Council and on the President's Cabinet for Student Government. She also has been involved in Delta Delta Delta sorority, Order of Omega, Mortar Board, Clemson Philanthropy and Service Committee and Clemson’s Day of Tradition Calendar Committee.

“I feel truly honored to have been chosen for this prestigious national award,” Hearon said. “I am grateful that my peers thought so highly of me to have nominated me for it. Having been chosen as one of the four recipients of this award is a wonderful feeling and I am proud to represent Clemson University and the success of our ODK circle.”

ODK is a nationally recognized leadership honor society. To become a member of ODK, students must rank in the top 35 percent of their academic class and must show leadership in scholarship, athletics, campus or community service, social and religious activities, campus government, journalism, speech, or creative and performing arts.

RedWolves notebook

The RedWolves announce the signing of Steven Neff a 6'2" 185lb Redshirt Fr LHP/OF from the University of South Carolina and BJ Hyatt a 6'4" 200lb So. RHP from USC-Sumter.

Coach Wes Davis has hired Andrew Noble from Greenville College in Greenville, IL and Blake Newsome from Methodist College in Fayetteville, NC as his assistant coaches for the 2009 RedWolves season. Newsome played for Methodist and is currently serving as a student assistant with Methodist, prior to Methodist he played for Florence Darlington Tech. Newsome graduated from East Clarendon High School in Turbeville, SC.

Four former RedWolves players have begun the season on a MLB roster for the 2009 season. Kevin Youkilis(1999) is the gold glove starting first baseman for the Boston Red Sox, Ty Wigginton(1998) is 3B/DH for the Baltimore Orioles, Ryan Speier(2000) is pitching for the Colorado Rockies and Brett Carroll(2003) is an outfielder for the Florida Marlins.

Mercury Hair Testing Launched in the Pee Dee

Columbia – Amid growing concern about the health impacts of Santee Cooper’s proposed coal plant, SCSaysNO launched its own mercury testing campaign for the people of the Pee Dee region. The first hair-testing event took place Wednesday, April 8, in downtown Florence, at Jay's Barbershop on Darby Street.

The initiative was announced by coalition partners Conservation Voters of South Carolina, Students Allied for a Greener Environment, the Sierra Club, and SC Wildlife Federation. Dozens of conservationists, students, and university professors gathered at the Green Quad at University of South Carolina to launch the campaign.

Speaking on behalf of the Sierra Club, Jennifer Howell offered, “As I speak, concerned citizens and health professionals are meeting at a barbershop in Florence to get tested for mercury contamination. Their hair samples will be sent to a certified lab for analysis and the confidential results will be sent to each person who participates.”

An investigative series in 2007 by the Post and Courier revealed extremely high levels of mercury poisoning among people who fish from the rivers of the Pee Dee region. Out of the 41 people tested by Post and Courier, 17 had mercury levels higher than what is considered safe.

Soon after the Post and Courier’s findings were released, a group of five physicians in Florence asked DHEC to begin testing people in the region for mercury and to suspend the air permitting process. This was in the fall of 2007. It is now 2009 and DHEC has still not undertaken that testing, despite repeated calls from conservationists and physicians, including the health advocacy group Physicians for Social Responsibility.

Sarah Lloyd with South Carolina Wildlife Federation drew the following conclusion: “Essentially we are doing what DHEC should have done all last year. While this is only the first step in our campaign, we hope DHEC will initiate a comprehensive testing program of its own.”

According to Florence pediatrician Dr. Weave Whitehead, who attended the mercury testing event in Florence, “We need to get a better sense of the potential health risks posed by this coal plant for the people of this region, particularly its impacts on vulnerable populations like children, pregnant women, and the elderly.”

“South Carolina has one of the worst mercury problems in the nation, yet DHEC has avoided testing people despite repeated calls from physicians that they do so,” stated Blan Holman of the Southern Environmental Law Center. “In the absence of state leadership, physicians and concerned citizens are taking the initiative.”

In Columbia, Jennifer Howell concluded, “We are gathered here today to show our support for the people of Pee Dee and our concern for our health in South Carolina. I am not only a student of South Carolina but have lived here my entire life. I am proud to call this state my home. Dirty coal is not the way to go, and we call on DHEC to suspend its mercury permit for the plant and begin a rigorous testing program for the people of the Pee Dee.”

RedWolves Notebook

The RedWolves announce the signing of two more players from the University of Maine. Matt Jebb a 6'6" 250lb So. RHP and Joe Miller a 6'3" 215lb Jr. RHP will be joining teammates Myckie Lugbauer and Taylor Lewis on the 2009 Florence Roster.

"These are two big strong arms from a solid program. Jebb is a strike thrower with a great fastball and good stuff to go with it. He is working as the number one for Maine and pitching to Myckie Lugbauer behind the plate. Matt should see time in the starting rotation. Miller is another big righthander from up north. He has a heavy fastball and a power breaker. Joe will start out the summer in bullpen and will spot start as well." - Wes Davis

A Florence RedWolves game makes a great place to hold your company outing this summer. The RedWolves offer group ticket rates and catering options to provide your employees and their families a fun outing event. Call the RedWolves office for information on having your company outing this summer at the ballpark, 629-0700. visit the RedWolves online at www.florenceredwolves.com

Florence Attorney Wins Environmental Award

Benjamin T. "Ben" Zeigler has been named winner of the 2008 South Carolina Environmental Awareness Award. Mr. Zeigler is a shareholder of Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd, P.A., where he practices public finance law in the firm's Florence office.

In a ceremony Friday, March 27, Scott English, Governor Mark Sanford's Chief of Staff, announced the winner at the University of South Carolina's West ("Green") Quad in Columbia and recognized Zeigler for outstanding contributions toward the protection, conservation and improvement of South Carolina's natural resources.

In July 2008, Ben Zeigler completed two consecutive terms (2004-2008) as Chairman of the Board of the Pee Dee Land Trust. During his tenure on the Board, Ben built unprecedented community support for natural resource protection throughout the Pee Dee region. "Ben's civic work, particularly on behalf of the Pee Dee Land Trust, is an outstanding example of his dedication. The cumulative impact of Ben's many accomplishments is truly greater than the sum of its parts, and for that, all South Carolinians should be grateful," English said.

The Pee Dee Land Trust enables a land owner to voluntarily and permanently protect his or her land for its natural beauty and function, its agricultural productivity and/or its historical significance. The Trust can accept donations of land or donations of easements on privately owned land in order to protect it. The public benefits from protected land, even when public access is not granted, because of the value of scenic beauty, water and air quality, potential for local crop production, habitat for flora and fauna, and much more. Find out more about the Pee Dee Land Trust at: www.peedeelandtrust.org.

"As a direct result of Ben's visionary leadership, the amount of land protected by the Land Trust increased from a mere 13 acres in 2005 to more than 10,000 acres in 2008," English added.
A native of Florence, Mr. Zeigler earned his Juris Doctor degree from Harvard University (1997), a Master of Philosophy degree from Oxford University (1994), and graduated magna cum laude from The University of the South (Sewanee) with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1992. Mr. Zeigler also serves on the boards of Florence County Progress (Chairman, Relocation Task Force; Chairman, Membership Committee; Tourism Study Committee); Friends of Florence Stockade; Francis Marion University Foundation; Florence Center for the Arts; South Carolina Tourism Alliance; South Carolina Institute for Legal Investment (Steering Committee Chair); and moderator, Aspen Institute Global Leadership Network. He has also served on the Francis Marion Trail Commission (Chairman, 2005-2009), and the McLeod Health Community Board. A member of the National Association of Bond Lawyers (NABL), Mr. Zeigler is a member of the South Carolina Bar, the South Carolina Supreme Court Commission on Lawyer Conduct (2005-2009), and the South Carolina Eminent Domain Study Committee.

The South Carolina General Assembly established the S.C. Environmental Awareness Award, now in its 17th year, during the 1992 legislative session to recognize outstanding contributions made toward the protection, conservation and improvement of South Carolina's natural resources.

Each year the public is invited to submit nominations that are then reviewed by an awards committee, which includes representatives from the state's environmental and natural resource agencies. In judging nominees, the committee considers excellence in innovation, leadership and accomplishments that influence positive changes affecting the natural environment.

Members of the awards committee represent the S.C. Department of Natural Resources, S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control, S.C. Forestry Commission and S.C. Sea Grant Consortium.

Previous winners include:
2007 - Dr. Richard Porcher Jr., professor emeritus at The Citadel
2006 - Rick Huffman, founder, South Carolina Native Plant Society
2003 - Burris Family, owners, Cypress Bay Plantation Tree Farm, Beaufort
2001 - James D. Elliott Jr., founder, South Carolina Center for Birds of Prey
1999 - Kenneth Strickland, environmentalist, Florence
1997 - Brad Wyche, president, Friends of the Reedy River, Greenville
1992 - Rudy Mancke, naturalist, S.C. Educational Television
DNR protects and manages South Carolina's natural resources by making wise and balanced decisions for the benefit of the state's natural resources and its people. Find out more about DNR at www.dnr.sc.gov.

RedWolves Notebook

The RedWolves announce the signing of two position players from the University of Maine for the 2009 season. 2008 All Star catcher Myckie Lugbauer, 6'4" 225lb Jr will return for a second season with Florence. Lugbauer hit .271 with a homer and 33 rbi's for the RedWolves in 2008. He was selected as the starting catcher for the 2008 CPL American league All Star squad and went 1 for 2 in the game. Lugbauer is currently batting .320 with 2 homers and 16 rbi's in 19 games for the 12-9 Blackbears. He will be joined this summer by team mate Taylor Lewis, 6ft 195lb Fr. outfielder. Lewis is currently hitting .200 in 10 games of action this season.

The RedWolves increase their 2009 home game schedule to 30 overall by adding two exhibition games. On June 3rd the RedWolves will take on the Catawba Valley Stars from a summer team league in NC/VA and on Sunday July 5th Florence will play against a University of South Carolina baseball player alumni team. The game will be sponsored by Moe's Southwest Grill. Former USC and Florence RedWolves player Tripp Kelly(1999, 2000), has been instrumental in putting this event together with the RedWolves. Along with Kelly, local and former Gamecocks Davy Gregg(RedWolves 02,03 04) and American Legion head coach Derrick Urquhart will be on hand to take on the 2009 Florence team. Game time is scheduled for 6pm and more details on the game will follow as the date draws near.

Ticket sales for the 2009 season continue, to purchase season tickets or general admission game tickets call the RedWolves office at 629-0700.

RedWolves notebook

The RedWolves announce the signing of two pitchers from Mercyhurst College in Erie PA. 2008 starter Steve Grife, a 6ft 180lb Jr RHP had a great season for the RedWolves in 2008 going 4-1 with a 1.65ERA and 55 strikeouts in 49 innings of work. Grife also threw a no-hitter against rival Fayetteville on June 8th. It was the third consecutive year that a Mercyhurst pitcher has thrown a no-hitter for the RedWolves, (Brian Esperson-07, John Mang-06). Grife is currently 3-0 with a 5.95ERA and 26 K's in 19 innings. Grife will be joined by teammate Nick Gillung a 6'1" 180lb So. LHP. Gillung is currently 2-0 with a 3.12ERA and 21K's in 17innings for the Lakers.

"I am very excited to have two guys from Coach Spano and Mercyhurst. I am pleased to have Grife back after his dominance in 08. He has an electric fastball, plus curveball, and a great changeup. Steve is a fierce competitor and will lead our pitching staff this summer. Gillung is another Laker that is a great addition to the pitching staff. He is a left hander with some arm strength and has command of three pitches. Nick will help us this summer in various roles." Wes Davis

The Florence RedWolves are looking for college interns for the 2009 season. If you are a Sports Mgmnt, Sports Marketing, Marketing or Media major and need a summer internship for course credit please call the RedWolves office, 629-0700, for more information and details. The RedWolves season runs from late May through mid August, the internship would begin as soon as spring semester is over.

FLORENCE DRUG DEALERS PLEAD GUILTY IN FEDERAL COURT

United States Attorney W. Walter Walkins announced today that Jack Robert Odom, age 50, and Roderick Lamart Ford, age 35, both of Florence, pled guilty in federal court to conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine. In addition, Odom pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Odom faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years imprisonment, and Ford faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years imprisonment. Both men face a maximum possible penalty of life imprisonment and will be sentenced by United States District Judge Bryan Harwell at a later date.

Evidence in the case established that on December 13, 2007, an undercover ATF agent bought a firearm from Odom, a convicted felon, at Odom’s Paint and Body Shop on McIver Road. While on federal bond for that offense, Odom sold several ounces of crack cocaine to a confidential informant working with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. Ford, Odom’s drug supplier, was present during the sale.

Odom has prior convictions for Possession of Narcotics, Disorderly Conduct, Contempt of Court, Resisting Arrest, and Battery.

Ford has prior convictions for Possession of Crack, False Information to Police, Failure to Stop for a Blue Light, Receiving Stolen Goods, and Shoplifting.

The case was investigated by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, the Florence County Sheriff’s Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobaaco, Firearms, and Explosives, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Rose Mary Parham of the Florence Office.

RedWolves Notebook

The RedWolves announce the return of a 2008 player and the signing of a pitcher both from Notre Dame. Herman Petzold a 5'10" 180lb Jr. Infielder will be back on the Florence roster for a second season and Todd Miller a 6'3" 205lb So. RHP will join the team with Petzold representing the Fighting Irish.

Petzold hit .266 with a homerun and 19 RBI's in 49 games during the 2008 season for the RedWolves.

"I am very excited to have a couple Fighting Irish in Florence this summer. Herman was a huge part of our success last year. He is a leader who plays with passion and drive. Petzold will be a versatile guy who can play all three infield positions. Miller is a good addition to our pitching staff. He is strikethrower with a good breaking ball and will challenge hitters. Todd should compete for a startiing spot in the rotation this summer," said Wes Davis.

The RedWolves mascot Homer is scheduled to make a couple of public appearances on Saturday March 21st. Homer can be seen in the morning at the McLeod Sports Medicine annual 5- 10K race at Briggs Elementary starting around 9am. Then he will travel over to Florence Toyota/Scion to participate in their 1st Annual Family Spring Fling that includes a cookout, inflateables and other carnival type events. The event be will be from 10am - 6pm and Homer should arrive around 11:30. Homer invites all of his friends to come out and see him as he gets ready for the upcoming season.

RedWolves Notebook

The RedWolves announce the signing of a pair of Tennessee Volunteers to the 2009 roster. Stephen McCray a Jr. 6'3" 230lb 1B/RHP and Will Locante a Fr. 6ft 175lb LHP will be in Florence this summer.

Sponsorship opportunities for the 2009 season are still available. The RedWolves entertained over 35,000 fans during their 2008 season. The RedWolves make a great avenue to promote your business to people in the Pee Dee area. Contact the RedWolves office at 629-0700 for more information.