Anderson County Emergency Management named South Carolina Agency of the Year

In a vibrant session at the South Carolina State House on April 23, 2025, members of the House of Representatives celebrated notable achievements and recognized outstanding contributions from various local groups and individuals. The atmosphere buzzed with pride as representatives introduced award-winning teams and honored community leaders, showcasing the spirit of collaboration and excellence within the state.

The meeting commenced with a heartfelt acknowledgment of the culinary arts team from Anderson Districts 1 and 2, who triumphed at the 21st annual South Carolina ProStart Invitational. This remarkable team, which has dominated the competition by winning 12 out of the last 13 years, impressed the assembly with their ability to prepare a three-course meal under challenging conditions. Their dedication and skill were highlighted by Representative Gilreath, who praised the students for their hard work and commitment to culinary excellence.

Following this, the Anderson County Emergency Management Division received accolades for being named the South Carolina Emergency Management Agency of the Year for 2024. Director Josh Hawkins and his team were commended for their exceptional response during Hurricane Helene, where they coordinated extensive relief efforts for thousands of residents affected by the disaster. This recognition underscored the importance of preparedness and community support in times of crisis.

The session also celebrated the achievements of local sports teams, including the Clinton Red Devils, who were recognized for their impressive performance as the Class 2A state champions in football. Representative Gilliam shared anecdotes of their victorious journey, emphasizing the team's resilience and sportsmanship throughout the season.

In a moment of camaraderie, the House also honored the Hammond School's varsity football and cheer teams for their respective state championships. The football team, under Coach Sean Wheeler, secured their eighth consecutive title, while the cheer team showcased their talent with back-to-back undefeated seasons. These achievements not only highlight the athletic prowess of the students but also the supportive community that rallies behind them.

The meeting took a diplomatic turn as members welcomed the Consul General of Israel, Sultan Dedan, to discuss the establishment of the South Carolina Israel Caucus. This initiative aims to strengthen ties between South Carolina and Israel, fostering collaboration in various sectors. The resolution recognizing the enduring friendship between the two regions was met with enthusiastic support from the assembly.

As the session progressed, the House also took a moment to celebrate the contributions of aspiring educators from the South Carolina Education Association, emphasizing the vital role they play in shaping the future of the state's education system.

In a light-hearted conclusion, the assembly recognized April 23 as Table Tennis Day in South Carolina, honoring the Carolina Pong organization and its young founder, Tripp Roche, for promoting the sport and engaging the community through philanthropy and tournaments.

This gathering at the State House not only highlighted the achievements of local teams and individuals but also reinforced the importance of community, resilience, and collaboration in South Carolina. As representatives shared stories of triumph and dedication, the spirit of unity and pride resonated throughout the chamber, leaving a lasting impression on all in attendance.