Author: Dick Mangrum

An engineering group’s report card on the condition of South Carolina roads and bridges prompted a response and an explanation from the state’s secretary of transportation.  Christy Hall says the SC American Society of Civil Engineers used data from 2-3 years ago on the physical condition of the roads and bridges to help generate South Carolina’s score.  Those data show […]

Walhalla’s Stumphouse Park (Tunnel and Falls) and Stumphouse Mountain Bike Park will be closed Tuesday, September 14 to allow city workers to remove hazardous trees through out the park.  According to the city, it was determined that one full day closure is best for the safety of everyone.  The parks re-open the next day, Wednesday, September 15.

The 2021 Miss South Carolina Apple Festival Queen is a Seneca teenager.  She’s Ashlyn Denny.  And, at age 14, she’s the youngest winner ever in the storied years of competition for the crown.  She’s the daughter of Carla and Keith Denny. Other top winners are Olivia Tate Sanchez, Junior Miss; and Morgan Laura, People’s Choice.  Little Apple Dumpling top winners:  […]

After a chase yesterday that followed 62 miles across parts of two counties, the Oconee Sheriff’s Office announces four charges against a motorcyclist.  The sheriff’s office report states the chase started at Wells Highway and Friendship Road and reached speeds as high as 130 miles an hour-plus.  The report identifies four charges against the operator of a crotch rocket-style motorcycle:  […]

The newest state health agency report includes the deaths of 50 South Carolinians from COVID-19, recorded in the 24-period that ended Tuesday night.  Of the 50 new deaths, three in Anderson County and two each in Oconee and Pickens counties.  Statewide, new cases:  2,198 (69 of them in Oconee County).  Of 22,250 test results received, the positivity:  12.9%.

Oconee County native Dale Butts will become the new assistant administrator of Beaufort County.  His appointment is effective Monday, September 20.  For the last several years, Butts has served as Beaufort County Register of Deeds, after serving in an identical position in Oconee County.  Dale Butts is the twin brother of Gary Butts, salesman and chief operations manager for 101.7/WGOG.

A northeast Alabama man has been transported from jail in his home state to the Oconee Detention Center where the Oconee Sheriff’s Office booked him into jail charged with two offenses in Oconee.  Arrest warrants accuse Joshua James Emanuel Ernest Martin of Mentone, Alabama with possession of a stolen vehicle and receiving stolen goods.  According to the warrants, 23-year old […]

If you’ve experienced Walhalla Main Street gridlock or frustration over the frequency of the traffic light cycles, you are not alone.  The Walhalla police say the DOT is aware of the problems and is attempting to make corrections to lessen the difficulties.  In the meantime, says Capt. Tim Rice, patience on the part of motorists is the best advice.  At […]

Health care officials inoculated 39 people in Walhalla against COVID-19 during a clinic that started as a drive-thru event, but finished inside the library building after a mid afternoon storm swept the area.  At the time, the Pfizer vaccine clinic moved inside one-half dozen cars had lined in the drive-thru.  Not immediately available to 101.7/WGOG NEWS was that of the […]

The Oconee Chamber of Commerce has identified 20 of Oconee’s most promising leaders who’ve demonstrated leadership and social responsibility and will recognize them during a luncheon next week.  The event is planned Friday, September 17 for the offices of the Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative where Lt. Governor Pamela Evette will be the special guest speaker.  Tickets for the luncheon at […]