Wedding & Event Venue Near Kingstree, SC.

Just before closing on a Wednesday afternoon, a community member walks through the door at King’s Brew. He’s just there to pray with Ron and Kristy Lambert, the owners of Kingstree’s new coffee shop. That’s not an uncommon occurrence here. As natural as ordering a cup of coffee.

The couple has seen hundreds of customers in their first two weeks.

They are serving hot coffee cold frappes, and milkshakes for people who don’t like coffee. They have a few pastry options in the mornings, and are building a lunch menu.

Four years ago, the couple lost their twenty-three-year-old son Connor to a boating accident. The death rocked the community, and the grief still sits heavy on his parents. Connor was a well-liked community member and a graduate of Williamsburg Academy. When he passed, the Kingstree community grieved along with the Lamberts and surrounded them with love.

“The coffee shop stems from the love everyone showed us,” says Ron. He has been wanting to open a coffee shop for a while, but all of the pieces needed to fall into place.

Kristy came up with the name King’s Brew to honor Jesus and Kingstree. The couple take turns excitedly talking about their project, and the community that has made it a success. More than once, Ron talks through his tears. He wears his heart on his sleeve, something he doesn’t hide.

Ron retired from Santee Cooper. He’s an outdoorsman. Both he and Kristy grew up in Andrews. He graduated from Andrews Academy, and she from Andrews High School. They raised their two boys there. When Connor wanted to join his cousins at Williamsburg Academy, the family moved to Salters. Kristy loves spending time watching her chickens. She hangs out with the old rooster that Connor left behind. Ron jokes that he will stuff it when it finally dies.

Connor is a real presence in the coffee shop, and in the community.

Their son’s friends come in for a hug, or to hang out. Friends come by for chats. “For me, I have to have people,” says Ron. He has used his story of navigating grief as a means to minister to area youth, through the Williamsburg Academy Fellow Christian Athletes, and he spends time with the Kingstree Football team. He teaches youth Bible study at Kingstree 1st Baptist. “Those young people help fill a void,” says Ron. He also speaks to community groups, often taking along Connor’s 6-year-old, well-trained yellow lab, Drifter.

Ron still drives Connor’s 2014 Chevy Silverado. He clear-coated over his son’s fingerprints on the truck door, so they wouldn’t fade.

Kristy says the coffee shop is Ron’s baby. He always has to have an adventure.

“We never did anything like this. It was a lot of prayer and hope it works out,” he says.

Employee Hailey Wilson keeps the outfit running smoothly behind the counter. They say she appeared just when they needed her. Angie Orosz serves up coffee in the mornings.

Menu item names are a touchback to family. The newly added Pa’NeNe, a toasted ham and cheese sandwich, references the names they are called by their two grandsons, Davidson and Bryson. The Vanilla Benny, is named for their oldest son, whose nickname is Benny, and of course, there is the Bubba Love, an oreo and mocha frappe, named for Connor.

Hotdogs on the lunch menu are made with Nathan’s hotdogs and topped with the famed chili from Williamsburg Academy, a recipe made by moms for events at the school for as long as Kristy can remember. It’s a favorite of the guys working in the area, who can run in quickly for a brown bag lunch with a hotdog or two, a bag of chips and drink.

The Lamberts are excited to be open during the Pig Pickin’ Festival coming up October 13-14 in downtown Kingstree, and are painting a pig soon, like the ones found around town, to go outside the coffee shop.

“We wanted a place people feel comfortable to visit all the time. Usually in a restaurant, people feel like they need to hurry so other people can sit down. People can just hang out here,” says Kristy.

Ron adds, “We didn’t open to make a fortune. I opened this for us to have people.”

King’s Brew is open regular hours on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 6:00am-3:00pm. They will also be open during special events downtown. For menu and specials, visit them on Facebook. King’s Brew is located at 118 North Academy Street, Kingstree.

The Blazers stormed out to a 48-0 lead and running clock in the first half of play versus Hemingway on way to a 54-0 victory in the game.

Overall Player of the Week, ChiQuan Giles led the way for the Blazers with 2 touchdowns and rushing 8 times for 115 yards. Jyson Hickman and Defensive Player of the Week Terrance Scott both recorded safeties for 2 points on defense.

Offensive Player of the Week, JaShaun Dorsey rushed for 2 touchdowns and threw for one touchdown to Tyleek Dukes. Tyleek Dukes has one 20 yard reception for a touchdown. Rodney Bryant scored a touchdown and rushed for 83 yards.

Javian McCrea scored a touchdown and rushed for 39 yards. Bryson Epps and Meavis Morris recorded interceptions.

Williamsburg Academy took on the Pee Dee Academy Golden Eagles in a tense rivalry week matchup on September 15t. The game was a nailbiter from the start, beginning with the Eagles putting points on the board early in the second quarter, the first time this season the Stallions have not scored first in a game. Coming off of a huge 58-0 shut-out the week before, the Stallions were revved up and ready to take on the reigning SCISA AAA State Champions.

Sophomore QB Micah Balder put up two touchdowns in the showdown, powering through to the goal line in his quick, calm, capable way. Balder passed for 126 yards on the night. He has truly flourished in his last two weeks at the helm of this team, following in the wake of his older brother, three-year starting QB Conrad Balder, who has been out due to an injury sustained in the Florence Christian matchup.

Seniors Teague Ward and Camden Moore also put points on the board for the Stallions, Ward carrying in two and Moore claiming one in the battle for bragging rights. Ward had an impressive night, accumulating 208 all-purpose yards throughout his various playmaker positions on the field. Ward in fact took the direct snap and handoff to Moore for game-defining in the throes of the fourth quarter melee. Defensively, JD Sholar, Wyatt Floyd, and Kam Morris were weapons on the line. Morris blocked a punt on the 16 yard line that was undoubtedly invaluable in securing the win for the Stallions.

Floyd is credited with two tackles for loss. Sholar took home the laurel of most valuable defensive player, accumulating 11 tackles, 2 of which were TFL, throughout his time in the game. He also received for 29 yards on the offensive side of the ball. His final notable moment in a game chock full of highlights was a thunderous block on a 4th down push by the Eagles late in the 4th quarter that resulted in a turnover on downs in optimal scoring position for the Stallions.

Wes Smith was 4/5 on PATs for the evening and averaged 55 yards on his 6 kickoffs. Smith has been an invaluable asset to the Stallions over his two seasons as primary kicker. After 48 minutes of high-energy battle on the field, the Stallions reigned victorious, 34-28, over the Golden Eagles.

The Stallions will take on Northside Christian Academy on the road this week.

Detour routes set around fighter jet wreckage

After two days of searching, the wreckage from a missing military jet has been found in a wooded area of Williamsburg County in the Stuckey area near Boggy Swamp. On September 17, a pilot safely ejected from his plane, but the plane continued on autopilot with a faulty transponder. No one knew where it was, or how far it had traveled.

On September 18, Williamsburg County Sheriff’s Office was asked to assist and support the Joint Base Charleston in search of the missing stealth fighter. The plane took off from Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort on Sunday and ran into a problem after takeoff. The pilot safely ejected and landed in a neighborhood in North Charleston, near the entrance to the base. Search immediately began for the $90 million dollar F-35B Lightning II stealth fighter jet. The plane was located around 5:40 p.m. on Monday evening, off Old Georgetown Highway. No civilian injuries were reported from the crash.

Stuckey Mayor Willie Brown says he sees planes all the time doing exercises in the skies above his community. “I’m glad no residents were hurt, and that it didn’t land on a house,” he says.

Because of an extensive debris field that will take some time to clear from the area, road detours have been set up. “Road closures will last until the investigation is done. Only residents will have access to the area,” says Stucky.

South Carolina Highway Patrol is assisting the Williamsburg County Sheriff’s office in traffic control for the mile long closure of Old Georgetown Road/S-45-39. It is not known when the road will reopen.

Detour Routes are as follows:

Vehicular traffic traveling north on Old Georgetown Road/S-45-39 should: · Turn right onto Midway Road/S-45-84.

· Left onto Baptist Road/S-45-85.

· Left onto Bartells Road/S-45-118.

· Right onto Old Georgetown Road/S-45-39.

Vehicular traffic traveling south on Old Georgetown Road/S-45-39 should:

· Turn left onto Bartells Road/S-45-118.

· Turn right onto Baptist Road/S-45-85.

· Turn right onto Midway Road/S-45-84.

· Turn left onto Old Georgetown Road/S-45-39.

Columbia, S.C. – The countdown is on for the return of the 154th South Carolina State Fair and discount admission and ride tickets are officially on sale. Buying tickets in advance offers significant savings of up to 50%. Tickets can be purchased now through Oct. 10 at a participating Circle K location or at SCStateFair.org.

“The South Carolina State Fair embodies the spirit of our state, and we can’t wait to see everyone come together in October to enjoy rides, food, competitions, agriculture and the wonderful experiences that make our fair so special,” says S.C. State Fair General Manager Nancy Smith. “This year we have a record-breaking number of new foods and drinks, as well as two world-class traveling exhibitions.”

Meet Me at the Rocket

The official theme of this year’s fair is “Meet Me at the Rocket,” a nod to the beloved tradition of gathering friends and families at the iconic S.C. State Fairgrounds. The S.C. State Fair, which will run Oct. 11-22, stands as a testament to the vibrancy of South Carolina, and for more than 150 years, has served as a cherished platform for creating unforgettable memories. As the state’s largest event, the S.C. State Fair captures the essence of South Carolina through a 12-day showcase of exhibits, competitions, foods, rides, entertainment and more.

2023 S.C. State Fair Highlights

Record-breaking number of new foods and drinks

Whether you’re an adventurous foodie seeking unique combinations or someone who craves the comfort of fair classics, this year’s S.C. State Fair selection of 13 new food and drink options will offer something for everyone and all taste buds to enjoy.

“We’ve curated a remarkable selection of new and enticing food options that celebrate both tradition and innovation,” says Smith. “From the nostalgic delight of Fried Twinkies on a Stick to the bold adventure of Dill Pickle Pizza, every vendor represents a fusion of tastes and cultures that make our fair so diverse in flavor.”

Below is a list of what’s new to this year’s fair. Learn more at scstatefair.org/foodmap.

1. Billy G’s Carolina BBQ

2. Donut Dog

3. Fried Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies

4. Fried Twinkies on a Stick

5. Fried S’mores on a Stick

6. Mexican Street Corn Sundae

7. Wisconsin Cheese Curds

8. Pumpkin Spice Funnel Cake

9. Mighty Mango Tea

10. Dill Pickle Pizza

11. Sweet Potatoes

12. Watermelon Arnold Palmer

13. Oliver Gospel Mission Coffee

World-class traveling exhibitions to be on display

From live music to stilt walkers and the free daily CIRCUS at the Fair, entertainment will be around every corner, including two mesmerizing traveling exhibitions: Princess Diana: Accredited Access Exhibition and Remembering Our Fallen.

“This year we are proud to present two amazing, yet very different exhibitions,” says Smith. “In addition to honoring those who lost their lives to the Global War on Terror in the Remembering Our Fallen exhibition, we are thrilled to be the first-ever fair in the world to bring the Princess Diana: Accredited Access Exhibition to its fairgrounds.”

• Princess Diana: Accredited Access Exhibition

Be immersed into the life of the world’s most beloved Princess at the Princess Diana: Accredited Access Exhibition, a walkthrough documentary capturing some of the most iconic and intimate moments in Royal Family history. Embark on a journey through Princess Diana’s life from a perspective you’ve never heard before – hers. For the first time in his 60-year-career, Princess Diana’s favorite Official Royal Photographer and trusted companion, Anwar Hussein, shares the untold stories of Royal life and the Princess that we could not take our eyes off.

Accredited by the Royal Family, Anwar and his two sons, Samir and Zak, make up the longest-standing family of Official Royal Photographers, having collectively spent more than four decades working side by side with the iconic Princess and her family. Anwar, in particular, changed the way we see the Royal Family by taking casual photographs that captured the subjects’ lives and emotions.

Named one of the “Top 12 Immersive Experiences Around the World You Need to Visit” by CNN, the exhibit has sold out in Los Angeles, Chicago, Toronto, Washington, and Puerto Rico. Since launching in 2021, it has become a fan-favorite event, being featured in People Magazine, Variety, Access Hollywood, as well as the LA Times, and has accumulated a 4.9 out of 5-star guest rating.

Learn more at www.scstatefair.org/attractions/princess-diana-exhibition/

• Remembering Our Fallen

Discover this traveling tribute to our military fallen from the Global War on Terror, Remembering Our Fallen, a photographic war memorial showcases 34 tribute towers, honoring not only those who made the ultimate sacrifice but also those who served in combat zones and succumbed to invisible wounds. Additionally, a tribute tower has been included to pay homage to our brave military personnel who tragically lost their lives in stateside or non-combat training accidents. Join us in honoring their service and sacrifice at the profound memorial. Learn more at https://www.scstatefair.org/attractions/remembering-our-fallen/.

How to buy discount tickets

Discount admission tickets are $10 per person ($15-$20 during the fair) and discount ride vouchers are $30 per person ($38-$40 during the fair). Exchange a ride voucher for a Pay-One-Price wristband to enjoy unlimited rides. Visit a participating Circle K location or SCStateFair.org to purchase discount tickets now through Tuesday, Oct. 10. Additionally, for the first time ever, Pay-One-Price vouchers can be used to enjoy unlimited rides for any of the nearly 70 rides, including the 150-foot “Celebration Wheel”.

The S.C. State Fair will take place October 11-22, 2023. Learn more at SCStateFair.org.

About the South Carolina State Fair

The South Carolina State Fair, a self-supporting 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, was organized in 1869 and is dedicated to preserving and promoting South Carolina’s agricultural roots while supporting statewide education. In addition to the 12-day South Carolina State Fair, the charitable organization manages annual football parking, is a popular event venue and hosts Carolina Lights — Columbia’s downtown drive-through light show. The South Carolina State Fair has awarded nearly $5 million in scholarships since 1997.More information can be found at SCStateFair.org.

Tamaya Miller’s book, “I Think My Teacher Is A Witch” follows the main character Nala’s life journeys. Nala loves going to school. Her favorite subject is science. But there’s just one problem. She believes her science teacher is a witch. Nala finds all kinds of clues to which she considers Ms. Butterworth is hiding her true identity. Though Ms. Butterworth denies it, Nala still believes her teacher is a witch.

Tamaya Miller is the daughter of Terence and Parris Miller. She’s a native of Williamsburg County and a graduate of Kingstree Senior High School. She is currently the co-director at Millers’ Learn N’ Play Daycare along with her sister (director) Myeisa Miller. “I’ve always had a passion for writing since I was a child. For some time, I grew away from my talent. My love for working with children at Millers’ Learn N’ Play Daycare inspired me to become a children’s author.” “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms” (Peter 1 4:10).

Check out Tamaya’s first children’s book on Amazon, “I Think My Teacher Is A Witch.” Grab your copy just in time for Halloween.

Self-Guided Tour on Oct. 29 to Include Historic Sites from the Revolutionary Era

CHARLESTON, S.C. – The South Carolina Historical Society (SCHS) is pleased to announce its 2023 Fall Tour, this year showcasing a variety of historically significant sites in Kingstree, S.C. The self-guided tour takes place on Sunday, Oct. 29 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

During this self-guided, self-paced tour, guests will explore Kingstree, where Scots-Irish and Huguenot settlers cultivated indigo and accessed the Black River, and which served as a backdrop of American Revolution Campaigns headed by Brigadier General Francis Marion. Sites include:

Williamsburg Presbyterian Church, The Williamsburgh Historical Museum, Thorntree House, The African American Archives of Williamsburg, C. Williams Rush Museum of African-American Arts & Culture, The Scott-Atkinson House, and an eighteenth century cabin constructed completely of cypress. Docents will be available at each site to answer questions and speak with guests. Tickets include a delicious lunch catered by Browns Bar-B-Que.

Participants can retrieve tickets, a map, and parking information at will call on the day of the event outside of the Williamsburgh Historical Museum. Tickets for SCHS members are $75 per person, $140 per couple; for non-members, tickets are $85 per person, $160 per couple. Tickets are nonrefundable as the tour will happen rain or shine.

Also, on the evening before the Fall Tour, Saturday, Oct. 28 at 5:30 p.m., guests are invited for An Evening in Lake City, S.C. During this special event, the SCHS will be hosting a talk by Dr. Scott Kaufman from Francis Marion University titled, “Francis Marion: Hollywood or History.” Following the lecture, there will be a hosted dinner at The Stables at the Inn at the Crossroads. Tickets for this event are $20 to attend the lecture only. For the lecture and dinner, tickets for SCHS members are $75 per person; for non-members, tickets are $85 per person.

For more information about the 2023 Fall Tour or to purchase tickets, please visit www.schistory.org/event/fall-tour-2023 or contact Hannah Mooney at hannah.mooney@schsonline.org or (843) 723-3225, ext. 111.

ABOUT THE SOUTH CAROLINA HISTORICAL SOCIETY:

Founded in 1855 and headquartered in Charleston, S.C., the South Carolina Historical Society (SCHS) is the state’s oldest historical society and its largest private repository of documents, books, manuscripts, and maps about South Carolina history. The SCHS is a non-profit organization with the mission to expand, preserve and make accessible its invaluable collection, and to encourage interest and pride in the rich historical legacy of South Carolina. The SCHS headquarters, the Fireproof Building, underwent a multi-million-dollar renovation and now serves as The South Carolina Historical Society Museum. For more information, please visit schistory.org.