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Wedding & Event Venue Near Kingstree, SC.

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Your Magic Moment Awaits

Your wedding day. Without a doubt, it's one of the most significant events you will ever experience - when you and the love of your life officially seal the deal and get married. On this day, your friends and family will gather to celebrate the next step in your life. Photographers will be running around snapping photos, catering plates delicious food for guests to enjoy, and the DJ sets the mood for a night of fun and libation. You've worked extra hard to make everything look perfect and run smoothly. You have examined every moving part down to the tiniest detail. At the center of all your effort is your wedding venue in Kingstree, SC.

Your event space can mean the difference between an unforgettable event and an average occasion. Capturing your uniqueness as a couple is paramount to a memorable wedding. But, without the right venue location and staff, your unforgettable event can turn into a painfully average occasion. Fortunately, at Abney Hall, you won't ever have to worry about dingy reception spaces and crummy chow halls.

Constructed in Kingstree, SC, in 1962, Abney Hall is 15,000 square feet and sits on 500 acres of land, making it a large wedding venue unlike any other. Abney Hall was originally the home of Mrs. Josephine Abney, a Kingstree native who was a lifelong philanthropist. Mrs. Abney devoted much of her time and effort towards supporting charities, educational institutions, hospitals, and other noble efforts. Today, Abney Hall stands tall as a symbol of love, both in our community and for the couples who choose to get married here.

Abney Hall is an exclusive event experience unlike any other, surrounded by verdant forests and sparkling ponds. Our venue is a natural fit for several occasions, including:

Special Event Space Kingstree, SC

Weddings

 Event Venue Kingstree, SC

Bridal Showers

 Event Space Kingstree, SC

Bridal Portraits

 Rehearsal Dinner Venue Kingstree, SC

Rehearsal Dinners

 Bridal Shower Venue Kingstree, SC

Corporate Events

 Business Event Space Kingstree, SC

Much More!

 Wedding Space Kingstree, SC

The Top Wedding Venue in Kingstree, SC

The beginning of your life starts at Abney Hall. With our team by your side, we can create the fairy tale wedding you have dreamed about since childhood. Whether you have 100 guests or 1,000, our waterfront ceremony locations and French-inspired courtyard are perfect for your big day. Celebrate in luxurious style surrounded by shady magnolia trees, a private forest, large ponds, and the beauty of Mother Nature. While our venue location and aesthetic have been praised far and wide, so too have the practical aspects of Abney Hall. Looking for a relaxing, comfortable spot for your bridal party to get ready in? We offer an entire floor in the Abney Hall residence to get the bridal party ready. Want to make your groomsman feel extra-special too? We've got a private, plush house just feet from a sparkling pond that is a proper hangout spot for the guys in your group.

To make life easier on you, we also offer Abney Hall as your go-to spot for rehearsal dinners. Why book an expensive restaurant or travel to another location when unmatched beauty and convenience are right at your fingertips? Abney Hall is just the place for that very important dinner the night before your big day. We are also happy to host your bridal shower at Abney Hall. Our venue makes for one of Kingstree's most unique bridal shower settings, where your family and friends can gather to give gifts and be merry before you walk down the aisle.

With such a large, magnificent house and a vast property, Abney Hall also makes for an unforgettable location for your bridal portraits and other wedding-related photography needs. Don't take our word for it - book a tour and see for yourself why so many new brides and grooms choose Abney Hall as their wedding venue in Kingstree.

 Wedding Venue Kingstree, SC

What Sets Abney Hall Apart from Other Wedding Venues in Kingstree?

You've already found the person you want to spend the rest of your life beside. The next step? Finding the perfect wedding venue for your ceremony, reception, and celebration of your lifelong commitment to one another. Remember, the backdrop for photos, dancing, eating, and all other activities will be at your wedding venue. That's why we work so hard to set Abney Hall apart from our competitors - so you and your guests can focus on love and living your new life while we work with your vendors and photographers to make your magic night a reality.

Here are just a few reasons why guests choose Abney Hall as their wedding venue in Kingstree, SC, along with some helpful tips from our experienced wedding venue staff:

Venue Size

Choosing the appropriate-sied venue for your desired guest count is a critical decision. A venue's capacity affects the number of people you need to consider having at your ceremony and reception. As you're first starting out, we recommend having a guest count in mind as you're searching for the right venue. Try to stick with that number. You may fall in love with a particular venue, but if its max capacity can't accommodate your guest count, it may be time to cross them off your list.

 Corporate Conference Hall Kingstree, SC
Abney Hall Pro Tip

Abney Hall Pro Tip:

Keep in mind that this is your big day. You shouldn't feel obligated to invite the college roommate you shared a dorm with for one semester. At the end of the day, your wedding venue should be one that can accommodate those closest to you. Abney Hall is equipped for both small and large weddings, consisting of 500 acres of forest, ponds, and lush natural beauty. Whether you want an intimate wedding with only your best friends or a grand ceremony with hundreds of people, we have the right amount of room to make you comfortable.

Location and Nearby Lodging

On your big day, you're likely to have friends and family traveling in from other parts of the state or country. These folks will need a place to stay during and even after your wedding. Accessibility and ease are important factors when it comes to choosing your wedding venue for both you and your guests.

Located in Kingstree, SC, Abney Hall is situated in a memorable, natural setting, giving your wedding a private vibe in the midst of Mother Nature. While we pride ourselves on having a secluded wedding event space, our venue is within an easy driving distance of hotels and vacation rentals.

Abney Hall Pro Tip

Abney Hall Pro Tip:

When you contact us for a tour, make sure to speak with our experienced venue manager about nearby hotels and shuttle service options. We understand that your guest's comfort and convenience are important, and we're happy to work with you to figure out the best way to get your guests to Abney Hall.

Venue Staff

At Abney Hall, our staff has earned its reputation as one of the industry's most friendly, accessible teams. We will provide you with a purpose-minded point of contact that can help answer questions relating to timelines, preferred vendors, and every aspect of your wedding. When you tour our wedding venue in Kingstree, SC, for the first time, we want you to feel like you have all the information you need to make an informed purchasing decision.

We would be happy to go over:
  • Venue Pricing
  • Ceremony Specifics
  • Reception Specifics
  • Catering Possibilities
  • Decorating Possibilities
  • Entertainment Options
  • Photography and Photo Opportunities
  • Venue Amenities
  • Bridal Party Needs
  • Groomsman Needs

At Abney Hall, our goal is to be your first resource when it comes to setting up and coordinating the details of your wedding day.

Decor

When it comes to your wedding's decor, you probably already have a few ideas in mind. We love it when our brides and grooms have a vision in mind because one of our greatest joys is turning that vision into a reality. At Abney Hall, our team is available to help you and your decorator fit, accent, and accommodate your fairy-tale wedding - whatever that may be.

Are you looking to dress up your wedding with decorations galore? Just want to add a few accents that tie into your preferred color palette? Abney Hall is versatile and ready to help however we are able.

 Reception Hall Kingstree, SC
Abney-Hall-Pro-Tip

Abney Hall Pro Tip:

If you're thinking about bringing in your own greenery, lighting, floral pieces, and more, we recommend discussing your vision with us on your initial tour of our event space. That way, we can get a head start on making your big day exactly how you envision it.

Photo Opportunities

10 years from now, when you and your spouse are celebrating your anniversary, you will pull out photographs from your wedding and will reminisce about the unforgettable time you spent at Abney Hall. Your wedding photos will be with you forever, and as such, we work closely with you and your photographer to suggest extra-special photo op spots that you can only find on Abney Hall grounds.

From the grand staircase and French-inspired courtyard to our manicured gardens and lovely pond, there is no shortage of photo-op locations for your photographer to choose from. As one of the most popular wedding venues in Kingstree, SC, we have worked with dozens of photographers over the years.

Our experience has allowed us to cultivate a list of preferred photographers - all of whom have the talent to take your pictures to the next level in a setting they're familiar with. We encourage you to check out our gallery to get a sense of the scope of our wedding venue and gain inspiration from other happy couples.

Abney-Hall-Pro-Tip

Abney Hall Pro Tip

The gallery on our website is extensive but be sure to check out our Facebook and Instagram pages as well. We keep our social pages updated with recent wedding photographs, giving you an incredible resource that you can use for your own photography purposes.

Special Event Space Kingstree, SC

The Premier Corporate Event Venue in Kingstree, SC

Abney Hall is known across the United States for our stunning weddings, but we also play host to some of the largest corporate events in South Carolina. Why choose a bland, lifeless meeting space when you can enjoy the beauty of Mother Nature coupled with a professional atmosphere? If you have an important team-building event or corporate conference that you have to coordinate, look no further than Abney Hall.

The epitome of class and style, our corporate event space is large, lavish, and chock-full of onsite amenities for you and your co-workers to enjoy. If your team needs a morale boost, don't bring them to the local Olive Garden for a cheap lunch. Treat them to a refreshing experience in our main dining room, where we can work with you to incorporate your catering options with the goals of your event.

When the hard work is done, and your team needs a breather, what better way to relax than with a quick dip in our pool? To burn off a little steam, head over to our brand-new tennis court - the perfect place to get some exercise in an ultra-private setting while you enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. Don't forget to bring your fishing poles for a couple of hours of fishing. There's even an opportunity to go hunting if you wish.

 Event Venue Kingstree, SC

Elegance at Its Finest - Only
a Phone Call Away

If you're ready to learn more about Abney Hall as your wedding venue, don't hesitate to reach out. We would love to hear more about your plans, your vision, and your needs. We know that planning a wedding isn't easy. It takes time, attention to detail, and a whole lot of patience. Our goal is to help provide you with all the info you need to learn more about our venue. Once you decide on a date, we'll work closely with you and your vendors to craft a wedding experience that you will treasure for the rest of your life.

Our available dates for your big day are going quick, especially during peak seasons like spring and fall. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Contact us today for a FREE initial consultation
 Event Space Kingstree, SC

Latest News in Kingstree, SC

SCDOR offers tax tips for SC families

Last year, more than 1 million state Individual Income Tax returns claimed state tax breaks available for South Carolina families. With tax season now open, the South Carolina Department of Revenue (SCDOR) reminds families to review deductions and credits they may be able to claim on their state tax returns.Here are some common state tax credits and deductions available for families:• Child and Dependent Care Credit: For a full-year resident, the credit is calculated at 7% of the federal child and dependent care expense. T...

Last year, more than 1 million state Individual Income Tax returns claimed state tax breaks available for South Carolina families. With tax season now open, the South Carolina Department of Revenue (SCDOR) reminds families to review deductions and credits they may be able to claim on their state tax returns.

Here are some common state tax credits and deductions available for families:

• Child and Dependent Care Credit: For a full-year resident, the credit is calculated at 7% of the federal child and dependent care expense. The maximum credit allowed is $210 for one child or $420 for two or more children. The federal credit offers a maximum of $2,100 in 2022 instead of $8,000 in 2021.

*More than 128,000 returns claimed over $27 million in Child and Dependent Care Credits for tax year 2021.

*Part-year residents or nonresidents are not eligible for this credit unless they are a resident of a state that offers a credit for child and dependent care expense to nonresidents of that state.

*You cannot claim this credit if your filing status is Married Filing Separately.

•Two Wage Earner Credit: This credit is available to married couples filing jointly when both spouses have earned income taxed to South Carolina. For tax year 2022, the credit is 0.7% of the lesser of $46,667 or the South Carolina qualified earned income of the taxpayer with the lower qualified income for the taxable year.

*More than 383,000 returns claimed over $71 million in Two Wage Earner Credits for tax year 2021.

*This credit cannot be claimed if your filing status is Single, Married Filing Separately, Qualifying Widow/Widower, or Head of Household.

•C??hild deductions: South Carolina has increased its dependent exemption from $4,300 to $4,430 for each eligible dependent, including both qualifying children and qualifying relatives.

*More than 718,000 returns claimed dep?endent deductions for tax year 2021, including more than 240,000 returns that claimed exemptions for children under age 6.

•Future college payment deductions: Contributions to the SC College Investment Program, (known as Future Scholar) or the SC Tuition Prepayment Program are deductible. You may deduct 100% of any contributions to the SC College Investment Program made between January 1, 2022 and April 18, 2023 and 100% of any contributions to the SC Tuition Prepayment Program made between January 1, 2022 and December 31, 2022.

*More than 33,000 returns claimed more than $389 million in future college payment deductions for tax year 2021.

???•SC Earned Income Tax Credit: South Carolina’s Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) increases in 2022, to 104.17% of the federal Earned Income Tax Credit. You should first claim the EITC on your federal Income Tax return. If you are not eligible for the federal credit, you cannot claim the state credit. This credit is open to full-year South Carolina residents.

*??More than 149,000 returns claimed more than $140 million in SC Earned Income Tax Credits for tax year 2021.?

*Use the IRS’s EITC Assista?nt to check your eligibility for the federal EITC.

*The EITC helps low- to moderate-income working individuals or couples, particularly those who have children.

*South Carolina’s version of the federal EITC was adopted in 2018 and is being phased in over six years.

*The IRS’s annual EITC Awareness Day is today, January 27, 2023. Almost 25% of eligible taxpayers don’t claim the EITC, so we encourage taxpayers to spread the word about this important credit.

Learn more about tax credits and how to claim them at dor.sc.gov/taxcredits.

Learn more

More tips and filing information are available at dor.sc.gov/iit. To learn more about preparing for your federal return, visit IRS.gov.

Stay connected

Connect with the SCDOR on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube and subscribe to ReveNews to stay up-to-date with the latest news, tax tips, and available resources. ?

Florence, SC - McLeod Health has been awarded full certification to the ISO 9001 Quality Management System by DNV.

“McLeod Health is dedicated to providing the safest and most effective healthcare services possible,” said Madge Hamer, Associate Vice President of Accreditation and Certification for McLeod. “ISO 9001 certification not only reflects that mission but helps to empower it. The effort required to achieve this certification fundamentally transforms the way we do business – it gets everyone on the same page and helps us achieve our objectives.”

ISO 9001 is the most widely accepted quality management system in use around the world and is quickly gaining acceptance among U.S. healthcare providers as a foundation for their quality and patient safety programs.

“McLeod Health has worked hard to achieve this certification, and they have done so with unwavering commitment from their top leadership to make their organization the best it can be,” said Kelly Proctor, President of DNV Healthcare USA Inc. “ISO 9001 certification isn’t just an award or trophy for something you’ve done, it’s public evidence that you are at the top of your game with an obvious plan in place to make excellence an every day objective.”

ISO 9001 brings science to the art of caregiving; it helps to standardize processes around things that are proven to work, by the people doing the work, thus empowering frontline workers while creating an environment of predictability for the entire organization. The ultimate impact of ISO 9001 within hospitals is the reduction or elimination of variation, so that critical work processes are done consistently, and the “best ideas” aren’t held by one person or one department but are ingrained in the organization itself.

Businesses that implement ISO 9001 do so for both the internal and external benefits. Internally it helps staff create clear and consistent processes of patient care and ensure that progress is constantly being made toward specific quality objectives. Externally, it tells the public, as well as insurers and regulatory agencies, that the hospital is not only talking about quality, but is pursuing it with discipline and transparency.

About McLeod Health

Founded in 1906, McLeod Health is a locally owned and managed, not for profit organization supported by the strength of more than 900 members on its medical staff and more than 2,900 licensed nurses (Registered Nurses; Advanced Practice Nurses – including Certified Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Practitioners and Certified Nurse Midwives; as well as Licensed Practical Nurses). McLeod Health is also composed of approximately 15,000 team members and more than 90 physician practices throughout its 18-county service area. With seven hospitals, McLeod Health operates three Health and Fitness Centers, a Sports Medicine and Outpatient Rehabilitation Center, Hospice and Home Health Services. The system currently has 988 licensed beds, including Hospice and Behavioral Health. The hospitals within McLeod Health include: McLeod Regional Medical Center, McLeod Health Dillon, McLeod Health Loris, McLeod Health Seacoast, McLeod Health Cheraw, McLeod Health Clarendon and McLeod Behavioral Health. On the coast, the McLeod Health Carolina Forest complex has an Emergency Department and the first two of seven medical park office buildings as an extension of McLeod Loris Seacoast Hospital. Projected to open in spring 2023, Building 3 on the McLeod Health Carolina Forest Campus will include the following services and medical specialties: orthopedics, rehabilitation, obstetrics and gynecology, pulmonary and critical care, rheumatology, general surgery and digestive health.

About DNV

DNV is a global independent certification, assurance and risk management provider, operating in more than 100 countries. Through its broad experience and deep expertise, DNV advances safety and sustainable performance, sets industry benchmarks, drives innovative solutions.

Whether certifying a company’s management system or products, accrediting hospitals, providing training, assessing supply chains or digital assets, DNV enables customers and stakeholders to make critical decisions with confidence, continually improve and realize long-term strategic goals sustainably.

DNV draws on its wide technical and industry expertise to help companies worldwide build consumer and stakeholder trust. Driven by its purpose, to safeguard life, property, and the environment, DNV helps tackle the challenges and global transformations facing its customers and the world today and is a trusted voice for many of the world’s most successful and forward-thinking companies.

For more information about DNV, please visit www.dnvcert.com/healthcare.

Shake it up: Couple moves from Alabama, starts Kingstree Nutrition shop

When Jason and Damaris Durham were living in Florence, Alabama, they traveled earlier this year to see friends in Georgetown who owned a shop and sold nutritious shakes and teas. The Durhams were sold on selling the healthy products, but they weren’t sure where to sell them.“I was talking to a friend, and we were praying about it,” Jason said. “Later he sent me a text, saying ‘The king’s still got one more move.’ Then we found Kingstree, and I thought, ‘Maybe it’s supposed to be.&r...

When Jason and Damaris Durham were living in Florence, Alabama, they traveled earlier this year to see friends in Georgetown who owned a shop and sold nutritious shakes and teas. The Durhams were sold on selling the healthy products, but they weren’t sure where to sell them.

“I was talking to a friend, and we were praying about it,” Jason said. “Later he sent me a text, saying ‘The king’s still got one more move.’ Then we found Kingstree, and I thought, ‘Maybe it’s supposed to be.’”

Sure enough, the Durhams have opened Kingstree Nutrition at 110 E. Main St., almost on the corner of Academy Street. They cut a ribbon Friday to celebrate joining the Williamsburg Hometown Chamber, and they officially opened Monday.

In Alabama, he was a subcontractor who installed floors. They had a baby boy six months ago. Before she got pregnant, Damaris was introduced to healthy shakes and teas and lost 20 pounds.

“She was working in a trailer plant,” Jason said. “A girl she was working with there got into this business and took her under her wing and taught her how to make them and taught her the business end of things. … She just fell in love with it.

“It took her awhile to sell me on it. I was skeptical, like, ‘I don’t know about these shakes and teas.’ Then I started drinking them, and I was like, ‘I’m not hungry. I’ve got energy. I’m not really putting on a lot of pounds.’ The product spoke for itself.’’

So it was time for a big life decision.

It was time to shake it up.

“My wife presented this opportunity, and I was like sure, why not?” Jason said. “It gets me out of that daily routine of sweat and grind and just get in here and maybe help somebody.”

Kingstree Nutrition’s menu features tea bombs and specialty teas, such as Malibu Barbie (watermelon, peach and collagen) and Jimmy Buffet (pineapple, coconut and collagen). It features protein shakes such as Orange Cream (Orange Creamsicle, Kingstree Sunset, Tropical Breeze, blueberry muffin and lemon pound cake) and Cookies & Creams (Apple Jacks, birthday cake, Chips Ahoy, peanut butter cookie and Oreo cookie).

Demaris’ favorite shake is the Malibu Barbie.

Which does she like better: the shakes or the tea bombs?

“I like both,” she said. “If I drink a shake in the morning. Sometimes I have my tea in the morning and sometimes with my lunch. I have a lot of energy all day. Keep going with that baby.”

How can drinks with these ingredients be healthy?

The protein shakes only have 200 calories. The tea bombs are sugar free.

The Town of Kingstree is set to receive a $4.6 million federal appropriation, thanks to Senator Lindsey Graham’s including it in this year’s US budget. Of that amount, Kingstree will receive $3 million earmarked for work at the 18-acre Black River Landing (currently known as Mill Street Landing), while Ben Ervin Landing in Bloomingvale and Rocky Point Community Forest in the Choppee area of Georgetown County will each receive $800,000. The Town will administer the funds for all three recipients. All three properties are a part of the Black River Water Trail and Park Network, which has been designated as South Carolina’s newest state park, the first state park to be created in over 20 years.

The Town of Kingstree will use these funds to enlarge the boat ramp at the landing and begin work on the boardwalk, which will allow visitors to experience the swamp up-close. The Town has also received a South Carolina Parks Recreation and Tourism grant, which will go towards developing a new parking lot for the landing. The addition of public restrooms at the landing is also a goal for 2023.

Black River Landing and Ben Ervin Landing are two of the properties and landings in Williamsburg County, which will be linked into an innovative water trail and state park, designed to give the public more access to approximately 70 miles of the Scenic Black River. A total of 12 properties in Williamsburg and Georgetown counties will make up the water trail and park network, with Black River Landing serving as the gateway to the entire network.

The other properties in Williamsburg County include the Hinds-Canada tract, approximately six miles downriver from Black River Landing, which will be accessed from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Highway (SC-377) and a nearby larger tract with access from US-521. When completed, these two tracts will be designed to look like what we except to see in a traditional state park setting with the Hinds-Canada tract eventually offering an outfitters center, paddler pull-off and board walk, a boat launch, camping, trails, pond fishing and kayaking. Most of this tract will remain in its natural state for exploring, birdwatching, hiking and fishing.

The tract to be accessed for US-521 is only a half-mile downriver from the Hinds-Canada tract and will become the network’s central hub. A visitor’s center and shuttle stop would be a part of this tract, which would also be an overnight stop for paddlers attempting the entire run of the river network.

Other properties in Williamsburg County that will be included in the Black River Water Trail and Park Network include the Colonial Tract, located near the Sims Reach Bridge on Sims Reach Road; a tract designated as Unit Three, just upriver from Ben Ervin Landing, with access from Thurgood Marshall Highway (SC-527). This tract includes two miles of river frontage and will have eight miles of hiking trails, camping and cabins/treehouses for rent.

The tracts in Georgetown County are largely concentrated near the Town of Andrews, with the exception of the Rocky Point Community Forest off Choppee Road and Ramsey Grove Plantation on Ramsey Grove Road.

The creation of the trail and park network will provide more public access to Black River, as 40 percent of South Carolina residents will live within a 100-mile or less daytrip from the network.

The parks and landings will also help to protect and interpret the cultural history of the area from the history of indigenous peoples to those who were enslaved to work on the large rice plantations that once dotted the more eastern portions of the river to the role the river played in both the American Revolution and the Civil War.

In conserving the natural resources and wilderness areas of the river, the system will help make the surrounding land more resilient to flooding.

South Carolina already generates more than 72,000 direct jobs in eco-tourism, with a payroll of $2.9 million. This new network of river trails and parks will eventually provide a major economic boost to our rural area of the state.

ANDREWS — The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced Feb. 1 it’s granted the S.C. Conservation Bank and its partners $1 million to add 2,180 acres of land to Wee Tee State Forest in Georgetown and Williamsburg counties.

The grant, awarded under the National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program, comes just over a month after the Open Space Institute announced it had purchased the approximately 2,200-acre RMS-Wadmacon tract along the Santee River.

The tract, described by the institute as featuring “miles of riverfront flanked by diverse and intact bottomland hardwood forests,” is located in southwestern Georgetown County.

“Conservation of the property supports habitats utilized by at least 116 species of conservation concern in the South Carolina State Wildlife Action Plan, including waterfowl, wading birds, bats, songbirds, amphibians, reptiles, fish, crayfish and mussels,” the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service said.

Forest Management Chief Russell Hubright of the S.C. Forestry Commission said the animal life in the area includes game such as black bear and wild turkey, forest-inhabiting birds such as the Kentucky Warbler and rare and declining amphibians and reptiles such as the spotted turtle. Gulf or Atlantic sturgeon and striped bass swim in the water.

The $1 million granted for the Wee Tee State Forest expansion is a fraction of $19 million in grants the FWS program awarded to protect coastal wetlands and nearby uplands areas in eight states including Washington, Alaska and Texas. The 21 projects receiving grants will “protect, restore or enhance” almost 14,000 acres, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service said.

Wee Tee State Forest covers about 16,000 acres in southern Williamsburg and southwestern Georgetown counties along the northern banks of the Santee River. The term “bottomland” within its land type, bottomland hardwood forest, refers to the land’s low-lying nature that makes it susceptible to periodic flooding.

Hubright said the commission plans to acquire RMS-Wadmacon from the Open Space Institute, similarly to its recent acquisition of the Great Santee Swamp and Dawhoo Lake/Wadmacon Creek tracts. The latter two tracts added 3,857 acres to Wee Tee State Forest — nearly a quarter of its total acreage.

Hubright said that little will change for the new land on the ground aside from signage to denote its place in the state’s Wildlife Management Area program, maintained by the the S.C. Department of Natural Resources. Any opening of roads in the area will have to be looked at “pretty hard,” he said, because doing so would require evaluation that the roads are passable.

“We’re sharing these conservation goals with (our partners), of course, so it’s a win-win, maybe a triple win because all these lands will go into the Wildlife Management Area program run by DNR that the Wee Tee State Forest is already in,” Hubright said of the new land. “And so it’ll just extend downstream the hunting opportunities. So that’s definitely a good thing.”

In addition to the grant and S.C. Conservation Bank, Hubright listed the North American Waterfowl Conservation Act and private donors among funding sources for acquisition of RMS-Wadmacon.

“That’s another advantage of working with these non-government agencies is that they have access to some foundations and some private funding that we might not have,” Hubright said of Open Space Institute and The Nature Conservancy, which together purchased the Great Santee Swamp and Dawhoo Lake/Wadmacon Creek tracts in December 2021.

Tax Tips For Choosing A Tax Preparer

In 2020, 46% of Americans used tax preparation software to file their returns, while 27% used an in-person, full-service tax preparer, according to a national survey by College Investor, a personal finance website.With the tax season officially opening January 23, many South Carolina taxpayers will be searching for help to prepare their tax returns. If you’re planning to use a tax preparer this tax season, the South Carolina Department of Revenue (SCDOR) reminds you to do your homework before handing over your most sensitive tax...

In 2020, 46% of Americans used tax preparation software to file their returns, while 27% used an in-person, full-service tax preparer, according to a national survey by College Investor, a personal finance website.

With the tax season officially opening January 23, many South Carolina taxpayers will be searching for help to prepare their tax returns. If you’re planning to use a tax preparer this tax season, the South Carolina Department of Revenue (SCDOR) reminds you to do your homework before handing over your most sensitive tax information.

While most tax preparers are honest and provide great service, both the SCDOR and the IRS regularly prosecute unscrupulous tax preparers. In 2022, the IRS identified over $5.7 billion in tax fraud and prosecuted over 1,800 individuals for financial crimes, including many dishonest tax preparers. Return preparer fraud has regularly been listed as one of the IRS’s Dirty Dozen Tax Scams.

The IRS offers the following tips to help you when choosing the right tax preparer.

Avoid tax preparers who:

• Base their fee on a percentage of your refund.

• Claim they can obtain larger refunds than other tax preparers.

• Refuse to sign a return they prepare.

• Ask you to sign a blank tax return.

What to consider in picking a tax preparer:

• Check their qualifications. All preparers must have a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). You can use the IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications to help find a preparer.

• Ask about the preparer’s fees. Do not give them your tax documents, Social Security numbers, or other personal information when making this request.

• Make sure your preparer offers electronic filing. The quickest way to get your refund is to file electronically and choose direct deposit. Electronic filing is also the most secure, accurate option.

• Look for preparers who work all year, not just in tax season. Confirm that your preparer will be available after the tax filing deadline in case you have questions.

• Research tax preparers and read their reviews to make sure there aren’t any red flags. You can check with the Better Business Bureau to make sure the preparer doesn’t have a questionable history.

After you select a preparer:

• Provide all records and receipts needed to prepare your return. Good preparers will ask for these and will ask questions to help calculate your total income, tax deductions, and credits.

• Review the entire return and make sure you understand everything about your return before signing.

• Be sure any refund goes directly to you and by direct deposit. Confirm your routing and account numbers on the return are correct. If the SCDOR is unable to direct deposit your refund because of invalid account numbers, you will not be able to resubmit the correct information, and your refund will be sent as a paper check.

• Ask for a copy of your return and keep it for your records.

• If you have to pay the SCDOR, please tell your preparer you want to do so electronically. Visit dor.sc.gov/pay to pay electronically.

How to report suspected tax fraud and identity theft

If you suspect tax fraud or identity theft, report it to the IRS and the SCDOR.

To the IRS:

• Use Form 14157 to report any suspected tax fraud or abusive tax preparers.

• Use Form 14157-A if you suspect a tax preparer filed or changed your return without your consent.

• Use Form 14039 if you are an actual or potential victim of identity theft.

To the SCDOR:

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Early projection for graduation rate meeting held to discuss Williamsburg County School District’s graduation rate

On January 24, a team of educators and community members met in the Dr. Rose H. Wilder Multipurpose Room to discuss the graduation rate of Williamsburg County high schools.Hemingway High School and High School graduation rate data was the focus of the presentations. It is important to note that C.E. Murray High School and Hemingway High School traditionally produced graduation rates of 80% or better, while Kingstree High School lagged behind historically.Having all students graduate from high school prepared for college and car...

On January 24, a team of educators and community members met in the Dr. Rose H. Wilder Multipurpose Room to discuss the graduation rate of Williamsburg County high schools.

Hemingway High School and High School graduation rate data was the focus of the presentations. It is important to note that C.E. Murray High School and Hemingway High School traditionally produced graduation rates of 80% or better, while Kingstree High School lagged behind historically.

Having all students graduate from high school prepared for college and career is the goal of any school system; the good news is that after decades of decline and stagnation, high school graduation rates are rising nationally.

This recent stakeholder meeting represents a critical step in showing a comprehensive review and accounting of high school graduation rates for students in Williamsburg County School District. The meeting also highlighted how high schools have varied in their expectations for these students and the measures they use to gauge progress.

Together, this makes the case that the way to move forward is to hold students, parents, and school staff to the same high standards across the board. Schools must provide the support high school students need in order to meet these graduation standards. School personnel from both high schools presented their current and past high school graduation rate data, and the contributing factors used to calculate these rates.

The projected graduation rate for the 2023 SC State School and District Report Card, was also shared with the group.

Dr. Tara Richardson of Williamsburg County School District, reflected on where WCSD is now: “Hemingway High School projected graduation rate is 88.4%, Kingstree High School projected graduation rate is 74.6%, and the Williamsburg County School District’s projected graduation rate is 77.5%, the recent meeting was a success, Imagine Greatness!”

Reflections from a few in attendance...

“As educators, we provide students with a chance and a choice to succeed. The secret to their success is being intentional in the chances and choices that we provide. Secondary leaders in Williamsburg County School District came together to show what happens when we are intentional. Although we are focused on the graduation rate; we are in the process of expanding more opportunities for success through the K-12 schools. Intentionality will be our focus in establishing the foundation needed for the whole child academically, behaviorally, and socially.” Dr. Robert Smalls of the Transformative Educational Solutions, LLC

“I was thrilled to be in attendance to witness the camaraderie, collaboration, and leadership displayed by the Williamsburg County School District team. The Graduation Rate meeting was very informative and the presentations were executed with great professionalism. We are definitely headed for greatness!” Marva Cannion, WCSD School Board Chair

“The collaboration between the schools and district personnel in analyzing the data and using the information to develop strategies that will yield positive outcomes for our children, are definitely steps in the right direction.” Dr. Janice Gamble, WCSD Board Member

“It was great to see forward progress. Williamsburg County, as a whole, has to come together to start the process of making sure the future is bright. What better place to start than education? Forward movement will take effort from everyone: the superintendent, principals, teachers, coaches, students, supervisors, mayors, council members, town managers, and the citizens. All will need to hold people accountable and show they will not settle for mediocrity. Williamsburg County has the ability to succeed, and we saw that first hand at the meeting on Thursday.” William Freeman, Hemingway Town Administrator

“At Kingstree High School, meeting student needs is our top priority. As we continue to progress through the remainder of this school year, we will make sure students have what they need to graduate on time and to become successful. Kingstree High School has several different programs to make this happen. Those programs include Star Academy, After-School Tutoring Programs, Credit Recovery and Flex Academy. Upon successful completion of these programs, Kingstree High School projects a graduation rate between 75%-80% for the 2022 - 2023 school term.” Kingstree High School Team, consisting of Principal Bonita Glover and School Counselor Ms. Cynthia Cooper

“Hemingway High School has detailed the purpose, planning, and processes used to facilitate active, at-success seniors toward on-time graduation in June during the past 6 months. As the team endeavors to increase its rate, all identified students are provided with one-on-one assistance for academics and/or attendance. The school’s projected Graduation Rate for 2022-23 is 88.4% .” Hemingway High School Team consisting of Mr. Myron Frieson, Asst. Principal, Ms. Donna Palmer, Instructional Coach, and Ms. Roberta Cumbee, Instructional Coach.

South Carolina CB Darius Rush continuing to prove doubters wrong

Beyond Adoree’ Jackson, the New York Giants face a number of questions at cornerback. There is little doubt the position could — and perhaps should — be one they address in the 2023 NFL Draft.Darius Rush of South Carolina is one of a plethora of cornerbacks competing to hear his name called in the first two days of the draft. NFL Network draft analyst Daniel Jerem...

Beyond Adoree’ Jackson, the New York Giants face a number of questions at cornerback. There is little doubt the position could — and perhaps should — be one they address in the 2023 NFL Draft.

Darius Rush of South Carolina is one of a plethora of cornerbacks competing to hear his name called in the first two days of the draft. NFL Network draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah said as many as 20 cornerbacks could have Day 1 or Day 2 grades.

At 6-foot-1?, 196 pounds (Senior Bowl measurements) Rush has the size and length Giants defensive coordinator Wink Martindale covets.

Something else the Giants covet, something they say all the time is they want “smart, tough, dependable” players. So, I asked Rush during his Thursday media availability how he embodies those characteristics.

“One way I embody those characteristics is off the field. I’m a guy who is laid back, doesn’t get into too much social things, clean off the field and on the field I make sure that I’m detailed in what I do, disciplined in my job,” he said. “Be in the right place at the right time, make sure I’m not in the wrong place at the wrong time. Stay away from trouble. In terms of smartness, I have an IQ for the game.”

Rush was also smart enough to make the Academic Honor Roll three times at South Carolina en route to earning a degree in sport and entertainment management.

He is also a young man of strong faith. He was wearing a necklace with praying hands on it Thursday, and credited his mother with instilling that belief in him.

“Mom kept me in church, she’d always tell me to pray every morning before we went to school,” Rush said. “Another thing – Jeremiah 29:11 is one of my favorite scriptures – staying the course and the plan that He has for me. My mom preached that every day, we literally talk about it every day. This is part of the plan that He has for me and I’m just keeping the faith with it.”

Rush comes from Kingstree, S.C., a small, rural town.

“You don’t get too many opportunities around that area since it’s so small. Being from that area, not saying that it’s a bad area [with] drugs, none of that, it’s just a small town with not a lot of exposure,” he said. “For me to come from a small town like that and be in a predicament like this and be around all these guys. I just to show that no matter where you come from, no matter how small the town with just a little bit of hard work and keeping the faith you can make it anywhere.”

Rush, of course, is hoping to make it as an NFL cornerback.

He took a big step in that direction with an impressive Senior Bowl performance. He played well and he answered questions about his long speed during the week in Mobile.

“One thing I think I proved at the Senior Bowl is that I’m a DB. Whether it’s playing two years or playing 10 years. I’m fairly new to the position, that is true, I switched over [from wide receiver] in 2019. I [don’t] have as much experience as guys that have been playing there their whole career,” Rush said. “One thing I went there and proved is that I am a DB and I’m able to do what guys have been doing for 10 years. Just show my skillet. Out there able to play press man, play zone coverage and make plays when I need to.”

Rush said that his wide receiver background is helpful as a cornerback.

It really comes out with the ball skills,” he said. “Able to make plays on the ball and to have an anticipation of what’s coming next, such as different routes over a certain amount of years, different releases … the alignment of whether the receiver is inside the numbers or outside the numbers. That comes into play as well, and it helps out on the defensive side.”

The Giants could use a cornerback with the ability to make plays on the ball. We will see if Rush and the Giants match up in a few weeks.

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