Marion County

Marion County, South Carolina — Grammy Award Nominated Artist and Marion County resident Dr. Michael D. Finkley released his latest single, “I AM,” on Friday, June 26, 2026, on all streaming platforms. The powerful new gospel single is a song of praise and a declaration of who God is. As a proud resident of Marion County, Dr. Finkley continues to represent his community through faith, music, education, and service. His journey reflects the power of using local roots to make a meaningful impact beyond county lines. Through “I AM,” he hopes to encourage listeners in Marion County, throughout South Carolina, and around the world. Inspired by Exodus 3:14, “I AM” reminds listeners that God is present, faithful, and able to be everything they need Him to be. With heartfelt vocals, worshipful energy, and a message rooted in faith, Dr. Finkley hopes the song will bless, uplift, and strengthen people during this season. “This song is more than music to me,” says Finkley. “It is a declaration. When we say ‘I AM,’ we are reminded of the power, presence, and greatness of God. As a Marion County resident, it means so much to share this message from my community to the world. My prayer is that this song reaches people right where they are and reminds them that God is still working.” “I AM” brings together a spirit-filled sound with a message that is both personal and universal. The single was produced by Deon Campbell and recorded, mixed, and mastered at Musikbarn Studio in Mullins, South Carolina. Dr. Finkley serves as lead and background vocalist on the track. The release of “I AM” also gives listeners a preview of what is to come. Dr. Finkley is currently preparing for the release of his upcoming album, Songs of Praise, which is scheduled to be released in 2027. The album will continue the message of worship, faith, and encouragement found in “I AM.” Dr. Finkley continues to use his voice, platform, and music to inspire others. As an artist, educator, speaker, media personality, and Marion County resident, he remains committed to creating work that points people toward hope, purpose, and perseverance. Radio stations, gospel music platforms, churches, community organizations, and media outlets are encouraged to prepare for the release and add “I AM” to their playlists once it becomes available. “I AM” became available June 26, 2026, on all streaming platforms. For more information, contact: Dr. Michael D. Finkley Email: info@finkleymusic.com Website: www.FinkleyMusic.com Social Media: @FinkleyMusic About Dr. Michael D. Finkley Dr. Michael D. Finkley is a Grammy Award Nominated Artist, educator, speaker, award-winning media personality, and Marion County resident. Through music, ministry, education, and meaningful conversations, he continues to inspire audiences with messages of faith, purpose, and perseverance. His upcoming album, Songs of Praise, is scheduled for release in 2027.

From The Marion County Sheriff’s Office Congratulations are in order for Marion County Sheriff Brian Wallace on his graduation from the FBI National Academy. Two hundred and fifty-five law enforcement officers graduated from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. The 298th session of the National Academy consisted of men and women from 46 states and the District of Columbia. The class also included 29 international members of law enforcement agencies from 26 countries, five military organizations, and four federal civilian organizations. Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy offers 10 weeks of advanced communication, leadership, and fitness training. Participants must have proven records as professionals within their agencies to attend. On average, these officers have 21 years of law enforcement experience and usually return to their agencies to serve in executive-level positions. FBI Director Kash Patel delivered remarks at the ceremony. Class spokesperson Charles Chapeau from the Georgia State Patrol, Atlanta, GA, represented the graduating officers. FBI Academy instructors, special agents, and other staff with advanced degrees provide the training; many instructors are recognized internationally in their fields. Since 1972, National Academy students have been able to earn undergraduate and graduate credits from the University of Virginia, which accredits all the National Academy courses offered. A total of 57,196 graduates has completed the FBI National Academy since it began in 1935. The National Academy is held at the FBI Training Academy in Quantico, the same facility where the FBI trains its new special agents and intelligence analysts.

Sorors of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Mu Kappa Zeta Chapter, proudly serving Marion and Dillon Counties, participated in a canned food drive sponsored by Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Dillon County Post 6091 on June 13, 2026. The chapter was honored to support this meaningful community service initiative, which helps provide food assistance to Local Food Pantries, Community Organizations, Veterans, and Families in need. Pictured in the back row: VFW Member Lawrence Payne, Soror Gloria Ervin, Soror Kourtney Hammond, Soror Linda Commedo, Soror Twanisha Neal, Soror Sandra Brown, and Jr. Vice Commander Anthony Burden. Pictured in the front row: Soror Jerri Lewis, Post Benefits Advisor Stephanie Maza, and Senior Vice Commander Danielle M. Smith. (Contributed by Dr. Willena Rembert)

CHARLESTON, SC (06/15/2026)– College of Charleston congratulates students named to the Dean’s List for Spring 2026. –Faith Hemingway of Mullins –David Anderson of Latta –Ellagrace Gerald of Mullins To qualify for the Dean’s List (Distinguished), students must earn a GPA of 3.500 or higher and complete a minimum of 12 semester hours. Founded in 1770, the College of Charleston’s mission is to provide students with a world-class education in the arts and sciences, business and technology, engineering and health sciences. The College provides a creative and intellectually stimulating environment where students are challenged and guided by a committed and caring faculty of distinguished teacher-scholars. The city of Charleston serves as a living and learning laboratory for student experiences and opportunities for career development. The university bridges the old with the new in a setting that is truly extraordinary – where historic character and forward-looking innovation come together to shape a distinctive and inspiring environment for learning. A College of Charleston education focuses on discovery and personal growth, as well as preparation for life, work, and service to our society.

CHARLESTON, SC (06/15/2026)– College of Charleston congratulates students named to the President’s List for Spring 2026. -Jourdain Zurcher of Latta -James Page of Mullins -Sophia Roberts of Latta To qualify for the President’s List (Highly Distinguished), students must earn a GPA of 3.800 or higher and complete a minimum of 12 semester hours. Founded in 1770, the College of Charleston’s mission is to provide students with a world-class education in the arts and sciences, business and technology, engineering and health sciences. The College provides a creative and intellectually stimulating environment where students are challenged and guided by a committed and caring faculty of distinguished teacher-scholars. The city of Charleston serves as a living and learning laboratory for student experiences and opportunities for career development. The university bridges the old with the new in a setting that is truly extraordinary – where historic character and forward-looking innovation come together to shape a distinctive and inspiring environment for learning. A College of Charleston education focuses on discovery and personal growth, as well as preparation for life, work, and service to our society.

Marion County Council Meeting held on 5-28-2026 at 7 pm YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/UtC3VygrzTM Please note: During the live stream of the meeting, audio will only be active while the County Council is in session. The sound will be muted during the Executive Session and will resume once they reconvene. When watching the recorded video later, you’ll see the full meeting, but parts with muted audio will remain silent.

During the Marion County Council Meeting held on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., Marion County Administrator David Crotts and members of Marion County Council proudly recognized and honored Mr. Wyman Watson for his outstanding service, leadership, and dedication to Marion County and the State of South Carolina. Councilman Joel Rogers read the resolution aloud prior to the official presentation, and the resolution was then presented to Mr. Watson by members of Marion County Council. Mr. Watson has dedicated 40 years of volunteer service as a certified firefighter and has served as a mentor and leader to numerous volunteers. He was recognized for his many contributions to the Britton’s Neck/Gresham Volunteer Fire Department, where he served as a founding board member, Assistant Fire Chief, and Fire Chief. His service helped expand the department to three stations and strengthen mutual aid partnerships with fire departments in Horry, Florence, and Marion Counties. The resolution also recognized Mr. Watson’s professional service, agricultural accomplishments as a successful farmer and cattleman, and his deep commitment to family, faith, and community. Marion County Council expressed appreciation for his wisdom, leadership, friendship, and faithful service to the citizens of Marion County. Marion County Administrator and County Council extend heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Wyman Watson for his distinguished public service and offer prayers and best wishes for a continuously rewarding retirement. Congratulations, Mr. Watson, and thank you for your many years of dedicated service to Marion County!

SUMTER, SC (06/04/2026)– Annie Turner, of Mullins graduated from Central Carolina Technical College during the May 2026 commencement exercises with a(n) Pre-Nursing Preparatory Certificate. Turner was among more than 350 students who received a degree, diploma or certificate. Central Carolina Technical College is a comprehensive, public, two-year institution of higher education that is dedicated to fostering a positive environment of teaching and learning for faculty, staff and students. The college serves primarily the region of Clarendon, Kershaw, Lee and Sumter counties in South Carolina and confers associate degrees, diplomas and certificates. Central Carolina Technical College students have a wide array of programs and services from which to choose. Our online programming and cooperative agreements with other colleges and universities provide students with exceptional opportunities coupled with our more traditional learning opportunities. Learn more: cctech.edu

SUMTER, SC (06/02/2026)– Sixty students were recognized for completing the requirements for the Associate Degree Nursing program. * Brittany McKenzie of Dillon * Britney Sawyer of Latta * Annie Turner of Mullins Central Carolina Technical College is a comprehensive, public, two-year institution of higher education that is dedicated to fostering a positive environment of teaching and learning for faculty, staff and students. The college serves primarily the region of Clarendon, Kershaw, Lee and Sumter counties in South Carolina and confers associate degrees, diplomas and certificates. Central Carolina Technical College students have a wide array of programs and services from which to choose. Our online programming and cooperative agreements with other colleges and universities provide students with exceptional opportunities coupled with our more traditional learning opportunities. Learn more: cctech.edu

The Manna House 803 N. Main Street Mullins, SC 29574 NOW OPEN! The Manna House is a community centered food pantry dedicated to serving individuals and families in need with compassion, dignity, and consistency. Rooted in the belief that no one should go hungry, The Manna house provides essential food resources to help ease the burden of food insecurity while fostering a spirit of care and connection with the community. Each month The Manna House will distribute food on the second Thursday from 7:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. The first Distributing day was Thursday, May 14th. The Manna House will be affiliated with Harvest Hope. They will require us to register every client. Because of this the first couple of months will be hectic. Once we get most families registered it should run pretty smooth. The location of The Manna House is 803 N. Main Street Mullins. It is a white building across from Smiths Grocery. When you come to pick up your food, we ask that you line up on W. Mayers Street which is beside the white building. Initially we will allow several vehicles to pull around and park to come in and register. Once they have finished the next in line will be allowed to come. After several months we hope most clients will be registered and we will start delivering the food to your vehicle. The Manna House is more than just a food pantry-it is a place of hope and encouragement. By bringing people together and providing consistent access to food, it strengthens the fabric of the community and ensures that everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Whether you are seeking assistance or looking for a way to give back, The Manna House stands as a welcoming and vital resource for all. If you would like to volunteer to help with Manna House you can contact Bill Rogers (843-430-0596).

SUMTER, SC (05/21/2026)– Kenneth Muldrow, of Marion, was named to the CCTC Spring 2026 Dean’s List for Part-Time Students. Muldrow was among more than 200 students named to the Spring 2026 Dean’s List. The Part-Time Dean’s List recognizes students who were enrolled in 6-11 credit hours and achieved at least a 3.5 grade-point average for the term. Central Carolina Technical College is a comprehensive, public, two-year institution of higher education that is dedicated to fostering a positive environment of teaching and learning for faculty, staff and students. The college serves primarily the region of Clarendon, Kershaw, Lee and Sumter counties in South Carolina and confers associate degrees, diplomas and certificates. Central Carolina Technical College students have a wide array of programs and services from which to choose. Our online programming and cooperative agreements with other colleges and universities provide students with exceptional opportunities coupled with our more traditional learning opportunities. Learn more: cctech.edu

The Marion County School District held the Aviation Program Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Wednesday, May 20 at 5:00 p.m. at the Marion County Schools ACT Building. The building was beautifully decorated and refreshments were available. There were displays of the training equipment. The welcome and introductions were by Michael Stone, the Director of Secondary and CTE. Marion County Superintendent, Dr. Kandace Bethea make remarks about the wonderful program as did Dillon School District Superintendent Ray Rogers and Dillon School District 3 Superintendent Stephanie Ard. The Aviation Program Purpose and Overview was presented by Dr. Mark Bunch, the Assistant Marion County Superintendent. The Director of the Marion County Airport, Charles Taylor, made remarks. Mr. Jerry Bullard, Aeronautics Teacher, gave remarks including an overview of the program and its many benefits including some of the equipment and new equipment that would be arriving prior to the start of the program. This program was made possible through a strong partnership between Dillon and Marion Counties. Students from Dillon, Lake View, Latta, and Marion will be allowed to attend. Afterwards, everyone went outside for the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. PHOTO GALLERY Photos by Johnnie Daniels/The Dillon County News, LLC

Marion County citizens are reminded that early voting for the Primaries begins on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, and ends on Friday, June 5, 2026. Early voting will be available at your county voter registration office or designated early voting center during the following hours: Monday–Friday 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Please note that early voting locations will be closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and state holidays. Citizens are encouraged to make a plan to vote early and avoid waiting until Election Day. To find your nearest early voting location, visit scVOTES.gov. Your vote matters. Make your voice heard!

Marion High School’s four student athletes signed to play at the next level on Tuesday, May 12, at noon, at the Marion High School gymnasium. Athletic Director DJ Kelly welcomed and thanked everyone for attending the event. Marion High School Principal Dr. Sam Tuten echoed the comments. Willie Cross, Jr., signed with Denmark Tech in baseball. AJ Stanley also signed with Denmark Tech in baseball. Charles White, II, signed with Cleveland Community College in basketball. Maliyah Williams signed with North Carolina A&T in softball. All of these student athletes thanked God, Family, and friends. PHOTO GALLERY Photos by Johnnie Daniels/The Dillon County News, LLC

The Academic Magnet Raptors won 12-0 over the Mullins Auctioneers on Thursday, May 7, in varsity baseball playoff action held in Mullins. The Raptors placed 8 runs onto the scoreboard in the top of the second inning and adding 4 runs in the top of the fourth inning. Academic Magnet managed 12 hits while Mullins managed 3 hits. Academic Magnet did not make an error in the game while Mullins was guilty of only one error. Mullins’ Andre Littlejohn connected for a double in his 2 at-bats. Layne Gerrald had a single in his 2 at-bats. The Auctioneers’ Adam Shaw pitched 4 innings and allowed 12 hits, 12 runs of which 10 were earned, walked 2, and struck out 1 of the 27 batters he faced. The Raptors’ Tyler Heckman had a homerun, a single, 3 rbi, and scored 2 runs in his 3 at-bats. Charlie Bhat had a double, a single, a rbi, and scored 2 runs in his 3 at-bats. Cole Ivey had a double, 2 walks, a rbi, and scored 2 runs in his 3-plate appearances. Liam Rust had a single, was hit by a pitch, and scored a run in his 3-plate appearances. Paul Simmons had a single and scored a run in his 3-plate appearances. Owen George had a single and scored a run in his 3 at-bats. Johnny Rose scored 2 runs. Sam Peters had a single, was hit by a pitch, and scored a run in his 3-plate appearances. Patrick O’Connor had a double, a single, and 3 rbi in his 3-plate appearances. Anson Harrison had a single and a rbi in his 3 at-bats. Academic Magnet’s Cole Ivey, Tyler Heckman, Liam Rust, and Sam Peters each had a stolen base in the game. The Raptors’ Tyler Heckman pitched 3 innings and allowed 1 hit, allowed no runs, did not walk anyone, and struck out 5 of the 9 batters he faced. O. George pitched 1.2 innings and allowed 2 hits, no runs, walked 1, and struck out 4 of the 9 batters he faced. S. Harris pitched .1 inning and allowed no hits, no runs, walked no one, and stuck out the one batter he faced. Academic Magnet will face Bridges Prep on Saturday, May 9. The time to be announced. Support your team.

A routine traffic stop for a headlight violation Monday night resulted in a drug arrest in Marion County. Adrian Olds Jr., 34, of Dillon, was taken into custody after Marion County Sheriff’s Office deputies conducted a search of his vehicle, where 46 suspected ecstasy (MDMA) pills were allegedly found. Olds has been charged with: • Possession with intent to distribute Schedule I (B) & (C) narcotics (MDMA/ecstasy) • Driving under suspension (3rd or subsequent offense) The arrest was made by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division, with assistance from the Narcotics Unit. *All individuals are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.

The Chesterfield Golden Rams shut out the Marion Swamp Foxes 8-0 in varsity baseball playoff action in Chesterfield on Tuesday, May 5. Chesterfield scored 2 runs in the bottom of the first inning, 2 runs in the second inning, a run in the third inning, 2 runs in the bottom of the fifth inning, and a run in the bottom of the sixth inning. Marion connected for 3 hits in the game but committed 6 errors in the game. Marion’s Jayden Hilbourne and Andre Stanley each had a single. Malachi Graham had 2 walks and stole a base in the game, and Willie Cross was hit by a pitch. The Swamp Foxes’ Nigel Smith pitched 6 innings and allowed 9 hits, 8 runs of which 3 were earned, walked no one, and struck out 4 of the 36 batters he faced. Chesterfield had 13 hits in the game. Bryce Adams had a double, 2 singles, a rbi, scored a run, and was hit by a pitch in his 4-plate appearances. Sawyer Blevins had a double, a single, was hit by a pitch, a rbi, in his 4-plate appearances. Levi Sullivan had 2 singles in his 3 at-bats. Max Gulledge had a single and scored 2 runs in his 4 at-bats. Easton Sellers had a single and a rbi in his 1 at-bat. Sky Courtney had a single, a rbi, and scored a run in his 4 at-bats. Parker Tolson had a single, 2 rbi, and scored a run in his 1 at-bat. Holden Lowery had a single, a rbi, was hit by a pitch, and scored 2 runs in his 4-plate appearances. Chesterfield’s Avery Keith had a stolen base. Chesterfield turned a double play by. B. Adams in the game. Chesterfield’s Bryce Adams pitched 3 innings. He allowed 2 hits, no runs, walked no one, and struck out 5 of the 12 batters he faced. Sawyer Blevins pitched 4 innings and allowed 1 hit, walked 2, and struck out 5 of the 14 batters he faced.

Pee Dee Academy defeated Florence Christian 15-3 in the run-ruled, 5-inning game played in Mullins on Thursday, April 30. Florence Christian scored a run in the top of the first inning. Pee Dee Academy scored 3 runs in the bottom of the first inning. Inning #2 was scoreless. In the bottom of the third inning, the Golden Eagles added a run. In the top of the fourth inning, Florence Christian scored 2 runs to cut Pee Dee Academy’s lead to 1 run, 4-3. In the bottom of the fourth inning, Pee Dee tacked on 11 runs. Pee Dee held Florence Christian scoreless in the top of the fifth inning to claim the win. Florence Christian committed 6 errors in the game while Pee Dee Academy committed only 1 error. Florence Christian had 7 hits in the game. Pee Dee Academy connected for 13 hits with G. Elliott with a double, 2 singles, 3 rbi, and scored 2 runs in his 3 at-bats. C. James had a single, a walk, was hit by a pitch on 2 different occasions, had a rbi, and scored 2 runs in his 4-plate appearances. Tristan Heckman had a home run, a single, arrived on base with an error, had 3 rbi, and scored 3 runs in his 4-plate appearances. C. Williamson had a double and a walk in his 2-plate appearances. M. Whittington had a single and scored 2 runs in his a at-bat. N. Byrd had 2 singles, a rbi, a walk, and scored a run in his 3-plate appearances. P. Adams had a single, 2 walks, and scored 2 runs in his 3-plate appearances. H. Lane had a double, a rbi, and scored a run in his 3 at-bats. B. Jones had a single, arrived on base with an error, 1 rbi, and scored 2 runs in his 4-plate appearances. C. Pursley had a sacrifice fly, a sacrifice bunt, arrived at base on an error, and a rbi in his 4-plate appearances. Pee Dee’s C. James, G. Elliott, and B. Jones each had 2 stolen bases while T. Heckman and P. Adams each had a stolen base. Pee Dee’s B. Jones pitched 3.1 innings and allowed 6 hits, 3 runs of which 2 were earned, walked 2, and struck out 3. H. Lane pitched 1.2 innings and allowed 1 hit of the 5 batters he faced. Support your team.