Orangeburg County giving $100K to arts center
From the Orangeburg Times and Democrat
Article by Princess Williams
Orangeburg County is providing $100,000 toward the renovation of the Orangeburg County Fine Arts Center at Edisto Memorial Gardens.
The money is being pledged by Orangeburg County Councilman Clyde Livingston from the Community Resources Enhancement Sites Trust. Funding comes from the county’s 1 percent capital projects sales tax.
County Council Clerk Faith Carter presented the $100,000 pledge during Orangeburg City Council’s meeting Tuesday. Livingston was unable to attend the meeting due to medical reasons.
Fine Arts Center Executive Director Beth Thomas said the contribution is wonderful.
“We are so appreciative of (Livingston’s) concern and consideration for the arts. We see wonderful events happening in our future with the renovation of this building,” she said.
The center is located in the most beautiful spot in South Carolina, Fine Arts Center board member Dr. Leo Twiggs said.
“The problem is that the building isn’t so hot. This (contribution) will make it hot,” he said.
Sen. John Matthews, D-Bowman, was able to secure $100,000 for the project. The city of Orangeburg gave $50,000.
Orangeburg Mayor Michael C. Butler says he is appreciative of the relationship that has been fostered between Orangeburg County and the City of Orangeburg.
They are working together to make Orangeburg a beautiful place to live and raise children, he said.