River Bluff High School student Anna Elizabeth Cully was one of 161 students from across the nation selected as a 2024 United States Presidential Scholar.

Students are selected as presidential scholars based on academic performance, contribution to the arts or career and technology fields and service to their local community.

Anna's exceptional academic achievements, dedication to the arts and commitment to her community have earned her this prestigious recognition, the press release read.

United States Department of Education Secretary Miguel Cardona congratulated all of the scholars, including Cully.

“The 161 high school seniors selected for the 60th anniversary of the U.S. Presidential Scholars represent the best of our nation’s schools and inspire hope in the bright future of this country. On behalf of President Biden, I am delighted to celebrate their accomplishments and encourage these scholars to continue to aim high, lift up others, and embrace opportunities to lead,” Cardona said in the press release.

United States Department of Agriculture announces funding for new local electric projects

In celebration of this year’s Infrastructure Week, the United States Department of Agriculture announced that three projects totaling $257 million would be funded in the state of South Carolina.

The projects will help improve access to electricity for over 121,000 people in rural areas across the state including in Lexington County.

Aiken Electric Cooperative will help connect 3, 588 consumers, improve smart grid technologies, build new headquarters and improve and build 192 miles of power line, according to the press release.

These projects were funded through the Electric Infrastructure Loan and Loan Guarantee Program. Both of these federal programs help build and improve electric infrastructures, smart grid technologies and renewable energy systems.

South Carolina Acting USDA State Director George Hicks Jr. said that these investments will help provide more opportunities for those living in the rural areas.

“These critical investments will help create seamless smart grid electric networks and will help increase economic opportunities for people living and working in these rural communities,” he said in the press release.

Pedestrian identified in exit ramp fatality

The Lexington County Coroner Margaret Fisher has identified the person who died in a vehicle vs pedestrian accident along the exit 113 westbound ramp on Interstate 26 on May 8.

The individual was identified as 49-year-old Cayce resident Curt Alan Davis. Davis was struck by a vehicle while crossing Frontage Road near the exit ramp. He was then pronounced dead at the scene due to injuries sustained in the collision, the press release read.

The driver of the vehicle was unharmed and remained on the scene after the incident.

The Lexington County Coroner’s Office and City of Cayce Police Department are continuing to investigate the incident.

Lexington School District Two offering local athletic camps

Lexington County School District Two is offering a variety of summer athletic camps for the local children in the community and even one for football moms throughout the months of June and July, according to the press release.

From June 10 to 13, Airport High School softball and volleyball coaches and players are conducting a camp for students ages six through 12. Those participating in the camp will learn about hitting, setting and passing in volleyball as well as base running, fielding and hitting in softball. The cost is $100 and campers will need tennis shoes, comfortable clothes and a glove.

The third annual Airport High School Basketball Eagles Camp will be on June 24 through the 26 in the Airport High School arena. The camp is for those ages 6 through 14 and runs from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. The camp will provide fundamental skills work for both boys and girls. The cost is $65 and includes a t-shirt.

A free clinic for football moms will be held on July 16 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Airport High School. The clinic will be led by the Airport High School football coaches and athletic director Shane Fidler. Attendees can meet other football moms, learn more about the program and try out some things that the players do during practice every day.

The Airport Cheer Little Girls Clinic will also be held on July 18 from 9 a.m. to noon. The clinic is for those going into kindergarten through sixth grade. Attendees will learn basic cheers and fundamental skills from cheerleaders and coaches. The cost to attend is $80 and includes a guaranteed t-shirt if you are registered by July 1.

New WKRT location opening in Lexington

Local pilate studio WKRT is opening its fifth location and this one is in Lexington. The studio is known across the area for its unique approach to pilates.

“The WKRT is a leading Pilates fitness studio offering dynamic classes, expert instruction, and a supportive community environment. The WKRT inspires individuals to push their limits, achieve their goals, and transform their lives through fitness,” according to the press release.

For those interested in signing up for classes or becoming a member at the studio, they can visit thewkrt.com.