AROUND BATESBURGLEESVILLE

Batesburg-Leesville Elementary School hosted its final “Educate My Sole” assembly of the school year on May 22 and it was one to remember as USC Women’s Basketball Coach Dawn Staley made an appearance along with her dog, Champ. Coach Staley, who is a co-founder and President of the “Educate My Sole” initiative, helped to give out free sneakers that day to more than 120 students at the school.

The graduating class of 2018 was celebrated May 29 with a special awards program at the Fine Arts Center. Reece Spradley was officially named as the Valedictorian of the senior class, ending her academic career in Lexington Three with a cumulative grade point average of 5.286. Kaitlyn Shumpert was named Salutatorian, ranking second highest academically in the senior class with a cumulative grade point average of 5.17.

B-L High School graduation was June 1 in Panther Stadium. Many came out to support our fantastic graduating class as they take the next step in their lives. Congratulations, seniors!

There’s a new restaurant in Town! Come check out Manna Cafe, a locally owned business that specializes in “food for the body and spirit.” Try the chopped steak!

Don’t forget that June 12 is primary election day for all of Lexington county. Make sure to get out and vote for your candidate!