Merry Christmas ::

Here's wishing each and every one a very Merry Christmas!

Pam Parker News ::

I got this from Buster just a short time ago:

Bumped into Pam Parker last nite. She looked good and I met future husband 3 1/2. She has buried 2 husbands and one of which she married twice. Big day is March. B.

Here's wishing Pam and her new husband the best of everything!

An Update On Sandy Raynovic

I received this from Buster just a few minutes ago:

Hi! It's Sandy. I'm doing just great Buster. I'm back at about 90% of where I started. I only use a cane on rough areas, my writing is legible, if not good, my speech only slurs when Im very tired. I still am greatly lacking in energy levels but that a good excuse to do more reading.
All in all, Im great! Enjoy (most of) your e-mails. Tell everyone hello for me.

Great news!

A Note From Buster ::

I just got this a few minutes ago:

Jerry Sheheen said that he ran in to Kirk Carrison over Thanksgiving. Kirk is planning on moving to Alaska as close to the North Pole as he can get. He says that has always been a dream of his. B.

Beautiful country, but brutal if you don't know how to handle it! I enjoyed the year I spent in the Aleutian Islands and I'd love to revisit Alaska, but I'm not so sure about living there!

Lonny Davis Information

From this morning's The State newspaper:

Londees Davis Jr.
|
HUNTERSVILLE, NC - Londees "Lonnie" Davis Jr., 64, of Huntersville, died November 7, 2011, inPresbyterian Hospital. He was born July 5, 1947, in Camden, SC, to Betty Baskins Davis and the late Londees Davis Sr. Lonnie graduated from Camden High School Class of '65 and Midlands Tech. He served in the U.S. Air Force 49th TAC Fighter Group/8th TAC Fighter squadron, The Black Sheep. He served in England, Germany, Africa, and ended his duty in New Mexico. He was a member of the Cornelius/Lake Norman Lions Club. Lonnie worked for Duke Power (McGuire Nuclear Station) in the engineering department. He was a pilot, loved to fly and loved his friends at the Bradford Airport. He flew an Ercoupe. Lonnie was an avid NASCAR fan.

Lonnie had an accident in 1969 that took his ability to walk, but it did not take his love for life or positive attitude.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife, Cindy Davis; close friend, Ronny Mays; godson, Cameron Londees Mays; father-in-law, Jack (wife Eva, deceased) Barnes; brother-in-law, Eddie Barnes (wife Maggie); sister-in-law, Jeanie Sampson (husband Sam, deceased) and Barbara Barnes; niece, Morgan Barnes; nephews, J.R. and Ben Earle; as well as his dog, Coco.

Memorials may be made to The Salvation Army, Hospice and Community Care of Rock Hill or Lions Camp Dogwood or one's choice.

The family will receive friends at Christ Community Church, 16301 Old Statesville Road, Huntersville from 2-4 p.m. Friday, November 11, 2011.

A funeral service will be held at Lyttleton Street United Methodist Church in Camden, SC, at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, November 12, 2011. Visitation will be one hour prior at the church. Burial will follow in Forest Lawn Cemetery in Camden.

Samuel S. James, Funeral Service Lic. of Huntersville, is serving the family. www.samuelsjamesfsl.com
Published in The State on November 10, 2011
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Read more: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/thestate/obituary.aspx?n=londees-davis&pid=154543301#ixzz1dIk4vbdM

More Sad News ::

I got this from Buster just a few minutes ago:

Jerry Sheheen called and said that Londees Davis passed away. Not sure about any details

If I get more details I'll pass them on.

Camden High Bulldogs ::

Well, the lost another one tonight:

Marlboro County--27
Camden High Bulldogs--14

This was the last game of the season and the Bulldogs finished with 2 wins and 8 losses. I guess that there must be some room for improvement somewhere!

Camden High Bulldogs ::

Football woes continue:

Darlington--31
Camden Bulldogs--10

Camden High Bulldogs ::

I'm afraid that it doesn't get any better:

Camden High Bulldogs--3
Hartsville--28

Maybe the students from the class of '65 should re-enroll in high school and go out for the team!

Camden High Bulldogs ::

Well, I'm afraid they lost another one:

Camden High Bulldogs--10
Crestwood--14

Not a pretty record so far this year!

Sandy's Mailing Address ::

Buster forwarded Sandy's mailing address to me yesterday. I would never post anyone's mailing address to the web although they're generally easy enough to find, but, if you would like to send her a get-well card, shoot me an e-mail to the address over there to the right and I'll pass on the address.

Camden High Bulldogs ::

They did pretty good last night:

Camden--34
Andrew Jackson--10

Another Update On Sandy ::

I got this earlier today via Buster from Sandy's husband, Sam:

Just a short note,
I am sitting here with Sandy at Providence Neurology rehab center in Anchorage. Sandy is doing well and improving daily.
She is able to raise her right arm and is feeding herself and getting most of her food to her mouth. She has been walking with a walker and within a short while should be graduated to a cane. They have been working with us on entering and exiting cars and aircraft seats.
Also have been teaching her on entering and exiting bath tubs, standing at kitchen stoves,ec't. Sandys speach is about the same she has to speak slower or maybe I have to listen faster.
The people here are impressed with her progress and if she continues as well as she has been her stay may be shorter than expected and transferred to outpatient status.
We have enjoyed support from family and friends, and still have quite a few laughs usually at Sandys expense.
Sandy sends her best to all and thank you for your good thoughts and prayers.
next up date in a few days.
Sam

A Further Update ::

Here's a post from Sandy's daughter, Karie, on Facebook:

They moved Sandy to Providence today, Friday the 16th, so she can begin the intense training/rehabilitation therapy. I (Karie Raynovic) spoke with her this evening on the phone and she sounded really good. She will have tomorrow -Saturday- free, but will begin the regimen of therapy very early on Sunday morning. Anyone that wishes to speak to her or drop by, please call Sam's cell phone. Thanks to everyone's support!

Camden High Bulldogs ::

aren't doing so well this year. The score tonight:

Lugoff-Elgin--35

Camden Bulldogs--20

A Sandy Cole Raynovic Update ::

Buster forwarded me this e-mail from Sandy's husband earlier today:

Friends and family,
Last Monday morning Sandy had a Stroke shortly after getting out of bed. She has lost quite a bit of use of her right hand and arm and had weakness on her right side, along with speech problems. The good news is she is doing better and getting good care. I am transferring her to a intensive rehab stroke center in Anchorage, where she will spend the next two weeks as a in house patient. We are optimistic and looking forward to good results. She has already undergone speech and physical therapy and has shown marked inprovement she has regained a lot of her speech functions along with being able to walk a little with the aid of a walker. Her mind remains bright and clear and was not affected by the stroke.
I will be busy trying to keep up with her but will try to keep you semi informed as to her progress as often as I can.
We are both in good spirits and optimistic on the future.

I'll pass on any further information that I get.

News About Sandy ;:

I just got a note on Facebook from Sandy Cole Raynovic's daughter, Karie, that she had a stroke this past Monday, but she seems to be doing pretty well. I'll pass on any further news when I get it.

Sandy Cole Raynovic ::

And her husband, Sam, bring home the meat for the winter:











It is beautiful country up there. I spend a year on Adak Island in the Aleutians when I was in the Navy and absolutely loved it although I did no hunting or fishing even though there were caribou on the island and the fishing would have been great. I envy Sandy having had the opportunity to have lived in Alaska for so many years. I would love to go back and visit. Actually, one of my Facebook friends lives on the island now and leads birding tours. The Navy abandoned the island back in the late 90's and now only about 85 people live there.

Good News To Pass On ::

From Patricia Price Gillion:

Pris McLeod got an excellent report from her oncologist. No sign of cancer anywhere. She will have more treatments as preventative treatment but is doing well.

Really good news at a time when so much news is negative!

Will I Break The Site? ::

I'm getting ready to change one of my other web sites although it'll probably take a few days for me to get it done. The only reason I mention this is that most of the photographs and the writings from Buster and others are hosted on the server in Arizona which is totally different from the server where this site is hosted.

I'll try to keep the disruption to a minimum and, indeed, there may not be any disruption at all. Whatever happens, I have everything backed up and I'll be able to fix the site.

Camden High Bulldogs Win Big ::

Camden High Bulldogs--45

The other team--27

I'll post the opponent's team name tomorrow. Johnny didn't reference it! At least that's a much better outcome than last week's game!

[update} Based on some of Johnny Jaynes responses I'd guess that the opponent was Ware Shoals.

[update 2] The State this morning confirms that the opponent was Ware Shoals.

1st Football Game Of The Season ::

And the season got off to a bad start:

Spring Valley-20
Camden Bulldogs-16

Kathryn Scheldt Performs ::

Last Shrimp Boat:

An Old Photograph ::

I had almost forgotten this photograph which I took on a trip to Camden in January, 2007:

Delores ::

Sent me this yesterday:

This cancer thing was such a shock, I think I was in denial......that this was happening to someone else. It was a rare, aggressive type of endometrial cancer that was found on a routine PAP smear as abnormal cells. Luckily I have a female gyn who doesn't have a "watch and wait" attitude about abnormal findings. She put me through an office biopsy (not enough tissue), ultrasound, which showed only mild thickening of the endometrium and then the D&C, which did, indeed, show the cancer. I had a total abdominal hysterectomy, which showed only two polyp-type tumors that pathology read as serous cancer in the endometrium only. There was some questionable abnormality in the left ovary, but no confirmed cancer in it. Lymph nodes were removed and 28 out of 28 came back negative. They even sent my slides to Johns Hopkins for comfirmation. I really feel God blessed me. The chemo is being given as a prophylactic treatment since this cancer is aggressive and is known to present in other organs, ie, colon, stomach, lung, brain. So hopefully, all cancer will stay away for many, many more years. This came at the same time that our class had two deaths and more cancer, so I didn't want to add to the misery until I found out how I was going to do. Thank you for your prayers and thoughts. Del

So, the prognosis looks good and we're all happy for that! She followed up a bit later with this e-mail:

Can't seem to stay asleep. I slept during the chemo, then slept for about 4 hours when I got home. Then was able to fall asleep around 10am, but up at 1:00am. Finished one book and started another. Oh, well. Can sleep in tomorrow.................I think it would be OK now to post my message to you. Seems like all will be OK. I will be followed for about 10 years since I am in a study for this type of cancer with women all over the US, since there is no one reason for getting it. There is a syndrom that links colon cancer with different types of cancer, one being endometrial. This is some type of genetic trait. But since there has never been a known colon cancer in either side of my family, my oncologist didn't seem it warranted genetic testing. I can't praise the cancer doctors enough here at Case Western Medical Center (aka University Hospitals). It doesn't hurt having worked at UH for 29 years and knowing the right people and getting a little special attention. I will definitely keep you updated. I just did not want to put the specifics on Face Book, since everyone's friends have access to my status. I was keeping it pretty generalized. Messaging or email seem to be the better way to avoid testing the HIPPA law. Well, back to bed, perchance to sleep or even dream!

Everybody keep the positive thoughts flowing for Del!

Busted! ::

From this morning's State:

Authorities have arrested four people in Kershaw County after discovering three marijuana patches with a total of 114 plants during one of the county’s periodic helicopter flyovers, Kershaw County Sheriff Jim Matthews said today.

Arrested Thursday and charged with cultivation of marijuana were Richard Barnes, 54, of Cassatt, Linda Faneite, 55, and Bernard Faneite, 57, both of Elgin, and Johna Burnes, 50, of Camden. An arrest warrant was issued for 36-year-old Don Laux of Camden.

Matthews could not say why those charged were growing the plants but speculated “it might have been to make some extra change or for personal consumption.” Pot smoking paraphernalia was found at one of the addresses, he said.

I think I know one of these people although I've never known her last name. I'll have to check it out.

[update] Nope, wrong Johna. Not a common name and that's what kinda threw me for a loop. I'm glad it's not the Johna I know!

A Photograph Of Classmates ::

From left to right:
Billy Ammons, Carl Sturkie, Buster Beckham, Ray Robinson,
Richard Reed, Roger Williams, Bob Lynch

Vernon Griffeth Remembers DDay ::

Mr. Griffeth, Buster's father-in-law who just recently passed away, shares his experience of going ashore with the first wave on DDay:

Vernon Griffeth from South Carolinians in World War 2 on Vimeo.

I have a couple of acquaintances here in Huntsville with similar WWII stories that are fascinating. One was supposed to go ashore at Anzio, but wound up a bit further up the coast where it wasn't so dangerous. The other was one of the first people engaged in the battle at the Remagen Bridge. They both told harrowing stories, and we owe all of the WWII vets a debt of gratitude!

A Bit Of A Resume For Robin Zemp Hough ::

I'm not quite sure where I came across this, but I enjoy discovering what our classmates have been up to through all of these years!

Robin Z. Hough, as principal oboist of both the Houston Ballet and Houston Grand Opera Orchestras, has performed in
productions in the United States and abroad. He also served several seasons as principal oboist with the Fort Worth
Symphony and Chamber Orchestras and performs throughout the southwest in the Tejas Duo (oboe and piano), in
recital, as orchestral soloist, and as a chamber music performer. Dr. Hough holds a Bachelor of Music Degree in Oboe
and Music Education from East Carolina University, where he was a student of David Serrins. He studied with Charles
Veazey at the University of North Texas, earning from that institution Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts
degrees in Oboe Performance. Dr. Hough has also studied with Ray Still. He is an affiliate artist on the faculty of the
University of Houston School of Music.

The Old Camden High School ::

I guess that it's pretty much gone. Here is a web gallery courtesy of Johnny Deal.

I'm also putting the link to the gallery up on the right so that it will not drop off of the front page.

I snagged these photographs from Johnny facebook page so these are the highest resolution I have.

Vernon Griffeth ::

Vernon Griffeth


CAMDEN - Funeral services to celebrate the life of Vernon Ray Griffeth, 91, of Camden will be held at 2:00 PM, Tuesday, June, 14, 2011 at Lakeview Baptist Church with burial to follow in Forest Lawn Memorial Park. Rev. Hugh McKinney will officiate. The family will receive friends Monday, June 13, 2011 from 7:00 â€' 8:30 PM at Kornegay Funeral Home Camden Chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Mr. Griffeth's memory to Lakeview Baptist Church, 1520 Mill Street, Camden, SC 29020. Active pallbearers will be family members and a dear friend, Stanley Carraway.
Mr. Griffeth died Saturday, June 11, 2011. Born in Colbert, GA, he was the son of the late Jesse Ellis Griffeth and Susie Morris Griffeth. He was retired from Skyline Manufacturing. Mr. Griffeth was a United States Army World War II Veteran having served in the European Theatre. He was a Tech Sergeant with the 1st Division, 16th Infantry "The Big Red One". Mr. Griffeth fought in Northern Africa, Sicily, the initial landings at Omaha Beach and the Battle of the Bulge. He was a member of Lakeview Baptist Church where he was former Deacon. Mr. Griffeth enjoyed hunting, fishing, cooking, watching baseball and he loved spending time with his family.
He is survived by his wife, Margie Henson Griffeth; daughters, Kathryn G. Beckham and her husband Buster of Camden and Ruth Ann G. Welch and her husband Brian of Pass Christian, MS; grandchildren, Mary Kathryn Beckham West and her husband Maury, Marlee Beckham Marsh and her husband Graham, Perry Griffeth Beckham and his wife Gretchen and Emma Lee Welch; great grandchildren, Patrick Beckham West, Reese Cameron West, Averette Reeves Beckham and Graham McLean Marsh, Jr.; twin sister, Verdah Looper,of Charlotte, NC and brother, Ranford Griffeth and his wife Cathleen of Travelers Rest, SC and special caregiver, Judy Blakney.
He was predeceased by his brothers Austin, Trellis, Jake and Landis Griffeth and two sisters, Wilma Ebersole and Arnis Mills.
Mr. Griffeth's family would like to extend sincere appreciation for the professional and compassionate care given to him by the Staff of KershawHealth and the A. Sam Karesh Wing Rehab.
Kornegay Funeral Home Camden Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
Online condolences may be sent to Mr. Griffeth's family by visiting www.kornegayfuneral.com

Joyce Self Motley ::

From this morning's State newspaper:

Joyce Self Motley


ELGIN - Funeral services to celebrate the life of Joyce Self Motley, 64, of Elgin, will be held Friday, June 3, 2011 at 4:00 PM at Sawney's Creek Baptist Church with burial to follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Thursday, June 2, 2011 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM at Kornegay Funeral Home, Camden Chapel. Rev. Charles Miller and Rev. Evan Smith will officiate. Memorials may be made in Mrs. Motley's memory to Sawney's Creek Baptist Church, 14605 Highway 34, Ridgeway, SC 29130 or the American Cancer Society , c/o Gail Kirkland, 647 Lachicotte Road, Lugoff, SC 29078.
Mrs. Motley died Wednesday, June 1, 2011. Born in Camden, she was the daughter of the late, John Self and Inez Branham Self. She was a graduate of the Camden High School Class of 1965. Mrs. Motley was retired from SCE&G. She was a member of Sawney's Creek Baptist where she was a Sunday school teacher. Mrs. Motley also taught a bible study at SCE&G and at Tanglewood for three and a half years. She loved the Lord.
She is survived by her husband, of 39 years, Claude Barnett Motley, Jr.; daughters, Stacey M. Keasler of Elgin and Reagan M. Neal and her husband Reece of Elgin; grandchildren, Ryleigh Grace Neal, River Andrew Neal and Robert Bailey Keasler, Jr.; twin brother, Jack Wayne Self of Camden; brother, Harvey Leo Self of Camden and sister, Linda S. Halsall of Camden. She was predeceased by her brothers, Johnny Randal Self and David William Self.
The family would like to express a special thank you to her dear friend of many years Alice Ellis and the staff and nurses of SC Oncology and Dr. Mary Ackerman. They would also like to thank her many friends for their cards, calls, prayers and flowers during her battle with cancer.
Kornegay Funeral Home, Camden Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.
On-line condolences may be sent to the Motley family by visiting www.kornegayfuneral.com.

Another Day With Sad News ::

I just got an e-mail from Del that Joyce Self Motley has passed away after an extended bout with cancer. I'll post more information as I receive it.

Becky Moody Scott ::

Rebecca Jean Moody Scott

Rebecca Jean Moody Scott CHARLESTON - Rebecca Jean Moody Scott of Charleston, South Carolina died May 11, 2011, at Hospice of Charleston in Mount Pleasant. Born January 3, 1947, in Fairfax, South Carolina and rasied in Camden. Wife of Leslie Urban Scott and the daughter of the late William H. and Inez Priester Moody, Sr. Surviving are one daughter, Rebecca Ann Scott of Goose Creek, SC, one granddaughter, Leslie Ann McCrudden, one grandson, Brian William McCrudden, Jr. (Will) both of Goose Creek, SC, one brother, Benny W. (Rachel) Moody of Utah and one sister, Barbary (Jerry) Schneidewend of Utah, a number of nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by a brother, William H. Moody, Jr. and sister, Bette McGraw. Rebecca was a member of Northbridge Baptist Church, and was employed with Howell, Linkous, Nettles, LLC of Charleston. Visitation will be held from 1:30 p.m. until the time of service at 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 14, 2011, at J. Henry Stuhr Funeral Home, West Ashley Chapel, 3360 Glenn McConnell Parkway with entombment following at Live Oak Memorial Gardens, Ashley River Road, Hwy. 61. Donations may be made in memory of Rebecca Scott to Hospice of Charleston Foundation, 676 Wando Park Blvd., Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464. A memorial message may be written to the family by visiting our website at www.jhenrystuhr.com. Visit our guestbook at www.postandcourier.com/ deaths

Music From Kathryn Scheldt ::

And here's another:



Kathryn's music is available through Amazon and, I presume, I-Tunes.

From Suzanne ::

via Buster:

Buster, our friend, Becky Moody (Scott) died yesterday.....as you know she was in our class of 65,,,,,,she's been sick for long time now,,,,,,,in case anyone wants to write her husband, Les Scott, 10 Glenkirk drive, Charleston SC 29414 he would love to hear from any classmates...... zan

I'll post more as the information becomes available.

James Williams ::

From this mornings Charlotte Observer:

Obituary
James Carroll Williams


James Carroll Williams
Mr. Williams, age 64, of Charlotte passed away Sunday, May 1, 2011 at his residence.
He was born June 24, 1946 in Lancaster County, South Carolina, the son of the late Adaline Gamble Williams and Woodrow W. Williams, Sr. He is preceded in death by his brother, W. Wilson Williams, Jr. Mr. Williams graduated from Camden High School and was a proud member of the 1964 State Champion football team which was #1 in the nation in defense. James had a love of working with the elderly and enjoyed his career at Aldersgate until his retirement in 2010 and also retired from the Mecklenburg County Sherriff's office in 1994. He was a member of Central United Methodist Church in Charlotte and a member of the Masonic Hart Lodge #380.
James was known for his sense of humor, the ability to make those around him laugh, a deep love of life, but most of all his love for his family. He enjoyed sports, especially baseball, and rescuing animals.
Surviving are his loving wife of 32 years, Brenda Blackwell Williams of Charlotte; sons Jeffrey J. Nash and wife April of Charlotte, Alexander T. Williams (who is serving his country and here from Afghanistan thanks to the Red Cross) and wife Jessica of San Diego, CA and Matthew B. Williams of Charlotte; grandchildren, Brianna Nash, Hayden Nash and Alex Williams; brother, Max Gilbert Williams; sister-in-law, Margaret Williams; brother-in-law, Robert Blackwell; sister-in-law, Cynthia Thomas and husband Ray; and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM Wednesday, May 4, 2011 at McEwen Funeral Service at Sharon, 5716 Monroe Road, Charlotte, NC 28212.
A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM Thursday, May 5, 2011 at McEwen Funeral Service at Sharon with the Reverend Ray Hall and Pastor Gary Revels officiating. Interment will follow in Sharon Memorial Park.
The family would like to thank the staff of Presbyterian Hospice and Palliative Care for their care of Mr. Williams.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Presbyterian Hospice and Palliative Care, PO Box 33549, Charlotte, NC 28233 or The Humane Society, 2700 Toomey Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28203.
Condolence at www.McEwenfs.com.
Published in Charlotte Observer on May 4, 2011

James Williams ::

I got this from Buster a short time ago:

James passed away Sun. afternoon. Johnny Jaynes is getting his home address and his wife's name, which he will pass on. Arrangements were unknown and his widow wanted a couple of former players to participate. B.

I'll pass on any further news I get.

Sad News All Over ::

Well, not all sad, but I got this from Buster regarding James Williams at some point in the past few days when I had no net access:

Johnny Jaynes called this evening and said that James had slipped in to a coma. His son was brought home from Afghhanistan. His family is in everyone's thoughts and prayers. B

On to better news. We came through the tornadoes last week fine although power was out from Wednesday afternoon 'til about 6pm today (Sunday). this was a minor inconvenience to us compared to what happened to many others. Good friends of mine lost their home and virtually everything and I just found out that another friend's nephew, his girlfriend and his roommate were killed down in Tuscaloosa. That's why I say that what we went through having no power was nothing more or less than a minor inconvenience although everyone around me will be happy when I take a hot shower. I took a cold one this morning, but that was pretty brutal!

Dr. Chad Oliver ::

I was listening to NPR this morning and the topic was the 25th anniversary of Chernobyl and part of the segment was an interview with Dr. Chad Oliver of Yale University. We went to school with a Chad Oliver but he was a couple of years ahead of us, as I recall. I knew Chad and his older brother Dan, but I don't really remember the context. I think it was a Boy Scout thing, but I'm not sure.

Anyway, I got to work and googled Chad Oliver + Yale and, sure enough, this is the same person that we went to high school with and Chad has been for several years a distinguished professor of forestry at Yale. Funny, but I never would have associated Yale with a forestry program. Chad and I exchanged e-mails this morning and it was really nice to reconnect.

One of the things I love about the internet is the ability to find friends from the past and not only have I been able to find old classmates, but I've also found several of my old Navy buddies including my division chief from both Adak, Alaska and Rota, Spain.

I tried uploading a video from Yale featuring Chad, but Blogger didn't seem to like it. If you're interested just Google Chad Oliver + Yale and you can find his bio and CV.

Some Decently Good News For A Change ::

Patricia Price Gillion posted this on her Facebook page:

I visited with Pris McLeod today. Mary Holland Young was also visiting with her. She is doing well and is in good spirits. The tests after the surgery showed that she did not have ovarian cancer. She had appendix cancer, which is rare. The cancer had not spread to the intestines and the liver only had a few 'flakes' on the outside. There was an egg shaped mass in the abdominal cavity. She will have to have chemo treatments. She is at her home in Sumter.

This is the first I've ever heard of appendix cancer, but I'm very glad that the prognosis seems to be good!

Pris McLeod's Address ::

If you'd like to drop her a note expressing your support:

851 Grimble Ct.
Sumter, S. C. 29150

We Need Some Good News! ::

Please, someone send me some good news to post here!

Another Round Of Bad News ::

Pam Parker Hancock's husband, Charles, had a massive heart attack last night, but he survived. I don't have any further information on his condition other than he may possibly have some brain damage, but the doctors are still doing their evaluations. I'll post more information as I have it available.

Medical Bad News ::

I just got a message from Patricia Price Gillion with the news that Pris McLeod is in Baptist Hospital in Columbia diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Apparently she was operated on yesterday, but all of the cancer was not removed. That's all I have right now, but if I learn anything more I will certainly post it as soon as possible!

I'm hoping that someone will be able to provide her address soon and I will pass it on as soon as I get it.

Medical Bad News ::

A PDF ::

To Buster's latest has been posted over to the right. It's titled "Athletes From The Past". I love getting things like this to post simply because it triggers so many memories from so long ago, and I really want to thank Buster.

I would love to have more things like this from anyone who reads this blog. They don't have to be long and involved and could just entail one small remembrance or question. For instance, I think that it was 7th grade that I had Miss Bruce for homeroom and as I recall, one other class, and one day one of the trouble makers threw a desk out the window. Now, Miss Bruce had a very delicate disposition and cried very easily and, unfortunately, often and she certainly did on this occasion. I don't remember the miscreant who tossed the desk, but I'm hoping that someone can refresh my memory!

Another Remebrance ::

Here's the latest from Buster. It brings back a lot of memories and images of people whom I have not seen in decades, but, given the memory nudge by Buster, I do recall a lot of the people and events now!

One spring evening fifty years ago, Buddy Small hit a baseball that his friends and teammates can vividly recall. This home run is a stand alone legend. Against Columbia High, at the old Legion Field next to Zemp Stadium, Buddy turned a fast ball into a towering drive that either brushed or cleared the lights in left field. Anything traveling that high and fast should have a stewardess handing out peanuts and cokes.
To celebrate Buddy's recent birthday, several lifelong friends and teammates recently got together for lunch at Mad's Restaurant. The meal turned into a seminar on local history and zany characters who resided here in the late 50's and early 60's. It was nice to be invited because my only athletic contribution to these guys was that I provided them a warm seat during timeouts.
Pop Small, Buddy's father, coached his way to a Hall of Fame career at Camden High. His career basketball record of ----wins and --- losses looks like a misprint. Pop was an Auburn graduate and his contacts with his alma mater allowed young men like Foy Thompson, George Beleos, and Ernest Baker the opportunity to play ball and get a college education. Pop was instrumental in establishing the recreational youth leagues in Kershaw County. The original youth fields were located where the Camden City Hall was built in the 50's.
Pop started Buddy at an early age learning the fundamentals. Pop would get John and George Koumas to come catch Buddy. George must have paid attention because his grandson, Forrest, was the S.C. High School Player of the year in 2010.
The early benefactors of the local youth program were kids like Harold Robinson, Tommy Cobb, Bobby Robinson, Richard Ammons, Jimmy Roller, Henry Team, and Willie Mickle who in the mid fifties played in the Pony League World Series. Robin Richards, whose father Tom operated WACA, can recall that people would come to the radio station and listen to the games on a public address system as the games were played in Pa. These same kids later pulled the extraordinary feat of winning the state championship in football, baseball, and basketball in the 57-58 school year. The Rockettes, the CHS girls basketball team also won the state championship that year.
Colorful characters such as Charles Griffin, Bruce Jackson, Henry DuRant, Tommy Massabeau, and Andy Denton were in attendance. Andy Denton was riding on his bicycle at the corner of DeKalb and Mill Steets when Speaks Oil Company exploded and caught fire. Andy hastily began furiously pedaling his way home and barreled over some gentleman who was running away from the fire. This gentleman's tumble ended with him having a broken arm. Andy did not bother to stop. Forty years later Andy overheard this same gentleman recounting the story of how some young whippersnapper ran him over and left him with a broken arm. He was not a priest, so Andy still did not confess.
Camden High football heroes such as Horace Turbeville were remembered. There were many former Bulldog players such as Butch Lily, George and John Koumas, David Ives, Lett Carroll, and Harvey Clarke. The discussion mostly centered around opponents who stood out. Some opponents who carried around a can of 'whoop butt' and could leave you with a snot ball are always remembered, although not affectionately.
Harvey Clarke was the football captain in 1962 when one of the most infamous gridiron incidents occurred. Neither Camden or Brooklin Cayce's football team were any good when we played that October, but the bands were outstanding. The stands were filled to capacity for the half time show. The BC band took the field as the second quarter was still being played. One of our traditions was to run through the goal post, so Buck Priester told us to run through the band. The big drummer was still spinning when I got there. The home fans booed us when we came back to start the third quarter.The locals met that night on the court house steps and fired Priester as the coach. Harvey had to go apologize to the BC student body.
In the late 50's, Buddy, Johnny McCarney ( who hit over .500 as a high school junior), Jimmy Sutphin, and H.B. Flora lead a little league team to the Dixie World Series. Two years later, this same group with Larry Robinson, Stanley Champion, JoJo Denton. David Ives, Earl Rush, Robin Richards,and Jimmy Bohelor took a team of Pony League all stars to a third place finish in a world tournament. Robin and Johnny can recall talking with the Cuban players about some guy named Fidel Castro who was trying to take over the country.
Buddy was a gyn rat like his good friend Butch Jordan. Butch and his sister Vera Andrews were two of the best players to ever letter in basketball for the 'Gold and Black.' Butch played at USC and now is a PhD professor at his alma mater. When Butch was playing at Carolina, they ran the Mongoose offense and one Feb. the team was six and one in the ACC, only one game behind the hated Duke Blue Devis. The coach got fired and the season went south.
When Butch was a student at USC, he gave several of us a severe ego deflating moment. In 1963, USC asked Red Lynch to send Billy Ammons, Arthur Hudson, Bob Lynch, Ray Robinson, and me on a recruiting trip. The coaches wanted to see us 'on the hoof.' We put on our Bulldog blazers, met the players and coaches, ate at the training table. and felt secure that four or five coeds would fall in love with us.
We were strolling around campus, feeling like hot shots , when from out of a dorm window Butch yelled an old Camden High cheer:
BIG DOG
LITTLE DOG
FLOPPY EARED PUP
COME ON BULLDOGS
EAT 'EM UP
Thank you for your attention.

I really love getting these things that trigger my memory!

[update] I was going to post this article as a PDF over on the right, but I just realized that I didn't reload Acrobat Pro X when I upgraded to Windows 7. I'll load the program tomorrow and then put the PDF up.

Enjoy!

Band Practice ::

Did the Camden High band ever practice like this?



I think not!

Another Obit ::

I don't remember Mrs. Jackson from the high school days, but thanks to Janie Hoffman Mathis for passing this on to me.

Maudine Corley Jackson


BATON ROUGE, LA - A longtime resident of Camden, SC, Maudine Corley Jackson, died March 5, 2011, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Born July 28, 1921, in Lexington, SC, she was a daughter of the late Ernest Jamison Corley Sr. and Maude Wingard Corley. She was a former member of Pilgrim Lutheran Church in Lexington, and a longtime member of Lyttleton Street United Methodist Church where she served on the official board as well as president and assistant pianist for the Wembley Sunday School Class. She was also a member of the DeLoache-Zemp Circle of the United Methodist Women.

Mrs. Jackson graduated from the Lexington public schools and Winthrop University in 1943. She did postgraduate work at the University of South Carolina and Columbia College. During her 35-year career as a teacher, she served as president of the Camden Teachers Council, the Upsilon chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma, and the South Carolina Home Economics Association. She was also a member of the NEA, Retired Teachers Association, SCEA, Kershaw County Education Association, and Kershaw County Landowners and Forestry Association. Mrs. Jackson served as a member of the Winthrop University Board of Visitors for several years.

Mrs. Jackson, widow of William Lawrence Jackson Sr., is survived by a son, William Lawrence Jackson Jr. and daughter-in-law, Julie Calk Jackson, a grandson, Benjamin Curt Jackson, all of Baton Rouge, a grandson, Adam Pierce Jackson and his wife, Kristy Toepfer Jackson, of New Orleans, and a sister, Imogene Corley Carns of Davidson, NC. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Ernest J. Corley and John E. Corley, sisters, Margaret, Salley, Corene and Eloise Corley, and Essie Corley Monts and Lavinia Corley Miller.

There will be a memorial service at a later date. Memorials may be made to Lyttleton Street United Methodist or Winthrop University.

Read more: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/thestate/obituary.aspx?n=maudine-corley-jackson&pid=149128699#ixzz1G3uViD3I

Hugh Fields' Obituary

Hampton Funeral Service
Hugh Fields Hugh Fields
(December 18, 1946 - March 1, 2011)

Hugh Andrew Fields of Grandfather Village in Linville, NC lost his courageous battle with leukemia on Tuesday evening, the first of March, at his home in Grandfather Golf and Country Club. Hugh died in the loving care of his family and closest friends. He was 64 years old. Hugh’s warm smile, "How ya doin’ partner?” greeting, and witty one liners will be missed by those who knew and loved him.

Born December 18, 1946 in Charleston, SC, Hugh was the son of the late Luther and Lucielle Fields. After graduating from high school in Camden, he attended Baptist College of Charleston, SC, where he was an accomplished golfer on the school's golf team. Hugh’s talent and passion for golf continued throughout his life.

After graduating from college, his love of the mountains brought him to Linville, NC where he began his career in Club Management and Real Estate. Hugh served as an Assistant Golf Professional at Linville Golf Club, and later at Grandfather Golf and Country Club, where he became Assistant to the General Manager. Hugh later became the General Manager of the Club until 1982. At that time, he founded Fields and Company Real Estate, a real estate sales and development company, primarily handling the sales of Grandfather Golf and Country Club's residential properties. A few of Hugh’s successes and endeavors include the development of the Grandfather Center, a retail shopping center, landmark and focal point of the Linville - Banner Elk area. He was also the founder of The Sterling Company Real Estate dealing with real estate in the Avery and Watauga County markets.

Hugh was committed to the welfare of the community and devoted much of his time to Healthcare and Education. His dedication to the growth and quality of life for the children and citizens of the High Country will be his legacy. His vision and guidance of civic and charitable organizations spans over forty years. Notably, he served as a Trustee of The Crossnore School for Children for 37 years, and as Chairman from 1976 to 1989. Hugh also served on the Board of Trustees for Cannon Memorial Hospital and as Chairman from 1995 through 1999. He served as the Chairman of the Cannon Sloop Healthcare Foundation Board. He was instrumental in the merger between Cannon Memorial Hospital and Watauga Medical Center forming Appalachian Regional Healthcare System to which he served on the Board of Trustees for both the Healthcare System and the Foundation until 2009. Additionally, he played a significant role in the development of the YMCA of Avery County. Hugh gave his guidance and leadership to those and many other civic and charitable organizations.

His greatest love was his family. Hugh is survived by his wife of 39 years, Eleanor Calhoun Fields, his daughter, Sarah Fields Whitfield, his son Lawson Andrew Fields, his son-in-law, Brian Corry Whitfield and Eleanor Clay Calhoun, his mother-in-law.

There will be a memorial service on Saturday, March 5th, at 2:00 o'clock PM at the Grandfather Golf and Country Club Clubhouse in Linville, NC. Officiating will be Dr. Paul Spaulding Smith.

Gifts and memorials in lieu of flowers, may be sent to The Crossnore School for Children in Crossnore, NC, the Seby B. Jones Cancer Center in Boone, NC, or the Humane Society of Avery County.

Online condolences may be sent to the Fields family at www.hamptonfuneralservice.com.

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.

Thanks to Patricia Price Gillion for passing this on to me!

More Sad News ::

The news that Hugh Fields has passed away was just sent to me, but I don't have any details yet. I'll follow up later when I can learn more.

[update]

I just got an e-mail from Buster with the following information:

The obituary for Hugh Fields appeared in the local paper yesterday. Hugh lived in Linville N.C. and the cause of death was luekemia.

His mother, Lucille, and I worked for the same company for a couple of years, so I had the pleasure of knowing a very fine lady. Our professional relationship allowed me to meet w/ Hugh and he was as pleasant and friendly now as he was when we were in school.

One of my favorite memories of Hugh was one spring break afternoon when we were in college, I stopped by 'the Pad' in Ocean Drive to get a beer and some guy with a pink shirt was walking a bulldog among the several hundred discarded beer cans. When I got closer I realized it was Hugh. He had always had 'style.'

Back in the mid 70's I was in art school in Atlanta and working part-time in a camera store in Cumberland Mall. One day who should walk in but Hugh, catching me off guard. We chatted for a bit until he had to leave.

Server Stuff Update ::

Looks like I got every thing changed and this site was not affected although I did find one link that was broken on the right side which I fixed. It's the "Chasing Light and Pixels" link which leads to my photo blog. If anyone has any problem with this site please e-mail me with the details and I'll fix it.

And please send me any news you might have!

Server Stuff ::

I'm working on some maintenance on one of the servers and there's a possibility, actually probably a great probability, that I may break some things relating to the photographs that I have linked here. If I do just give me some time and I'll straighten it out.

Pancakes! Yum!

From Johnny Deal and John Jaynes on their Facebook pages:

The Camden High Lady Bulldogs are having a pancake supper on Tuesday, Feb. 15th from 5:30-7:30 at the Camden McDonalds on DeKalb St. Tickets are $5.00 for all you can eat pancakes, a soft drink, and a sausage patty. People can message Natalie Jeffcoat for tickets or get them at McDonalds the night of the supper. Local Peeps, please SHARE this to your page!

I don't think I've ever heard of a pancake supper, but I don't see why not!

Meth Labs In Kershaw County? ::

I came across this in The State last Sunday:

Kershaw County sheriff’s deputies raided a methamphetamine lab at a lake house on Lake Wateree early Sunday, arresting two men and two women.

The lab, which was contaminated by the toxic chemicals used to manufacture methamphetamine, was the first uncovered in years in Kershaw County, the Sheriff’s Department said. Sheriff Jim Matthews called in a SLED unit, whose members wear protective suits and breathe through respirators, to process the scene.

“The chemicals used to produce this illegal drug are highly toxic and flammable,” Matthews said.

Kershaw deputies discovered the lab acting on an anonymous tip that people in the house were creating a disturbance, said Matthews. The lab was capable of producing two ounces of meth a day, and an ounce of meth can sell for up to $2,500, Matthews said.

Facing various methamphetamine charges are: Zachary Harkins, 24; Correy Garrison, 22; Megan Smith, 22; and Carey Rice, 24.

In the Midlands, Lexington County is known as the center of meth lab activity. That county’s deputies regularly find the clandestine labs. In Richland County, where the illegal drugs of choice mostly are cocaine and marijuana, meth lab busts are rare.

Read more: http://www.thestate.com/2011/02/06/1682603/first-meth-lab-in-years-raided.html#ixzz1DQScHPTj

My first thought was that if this is the first meth lab found in Kershaw County in years then someone probably has not been looking very closely! Now, having said that, I have to say that I have not lived in Kershaw County in decades, but given how prolific that meth labs are just about everywhere else I find it hard to believe that they are rare in Camden and Kershaw County.

Several years ago, when I lived in south Huntsville, Al., we had a new neighbor next door with suspicious visitors at all hours of the day but, more importantly, at all hours of the late night. One Friday the police blocked both ends of the street and the SWAT team went in. Sure enough, the occupants were operating a meth lab. What was really sad was that they had a very cute little girl of about 5 years old. I never heard what happened to any of them: mother, father, or daughter. Just a terribly sad situation for the daughter.

Meth labs are very common in north Alabama and they've become mobile. Not like "Breaking Bad", but people set them up in their cars and vans and produce what I presume are relatively small amounts in shopping center parking lots. Last year I pulled into the local Wal-Mart parking lot and there were police cars everywhere blocking 3 lanes. Turns out that they had found a compact car with a mobile lab in the back.

Several kids of friends of mine have had serious meth addiction problems in the past few years, but, thankfully, they seem to have overcome their addiction, but far too many people have not been so lucky.

Having posted this screed against meth I've got to say that, as a non-user, I do support the legalization, or at least the decriminalization, of possession and use of small amounts of Marijuana, but that's a topic for another day!

Still Here ::

But I have no news to share. If anyone has anything I would love to post it here. Even Buster has been quiet lately!

Happy New Year! ::

I can't believe that I forgot to post a new year greeting here. Here's hoping for a happy and prosperous new year for everyone!