BENNETTSVILLE — Friday morning the Marlboro County Chamber hosted its annual Legislative Breakfast at the Marlboro Golf and Recreation Complex Ballroom against a backdrop of patriotic themed decorations perfectly arrayed by Rhonda McCrimmon at Simply Strong Survivors and a delicious breakfast buffet was provided for both speakers and attendees by the talented crew at Savor the Flavor.
Starting bright and early at 7:30 a.m., the event lasted until 9:30 a.m. and featured guest speakers Senator JD Chaplin, Representative Jason Luck, Representative Jackie Hayes, Gerald Shea standing in for Congressman Russell Fry, and Celia Urquhart representing Senator Lindsay Graham. Chamber Chairman Gage Speight hosted the event along with Mr. David Pope, who is Scotland Healthcare’s CEO, and a premier sponsor of the event.
Other sponsors for the event were SPC Credit Union, Duke Energy, McLeod Health Sandhill Connextions, and McLeod Health Cheraw.
“As chairman of the Marlboro Chamber Board of Directors, I am proud to say the 2026 Legislative Breakfast was a success, made possible by our premier sponsor, Scotland Health,” said Speight, adding, “The event brought together our community and elected officials for a smooth, engaging morning that reflects the Chamber’s commitment to growth and collaboration through commerce, community, and communication.”
Speight went on to express his appreciation for the hard work, time, and efforts of Rhonda McCrimmon for the stunning décor, as well as the Marlboro County Golf and Recreation Complex for the use of their spacious ballroom.
“This event truly embodies our mission, and we are honored to bring it to our community each year,” continued Speight.
Bennettsville Mayor Tyron Abraham said he was thrilled to once again attend the annual event.
“This is always a very informative and great opportunity for our residents to hear from their elected officials on how the county and state are doing. It is also a great opportunity for locally elected officials to work with and hear from their legislative counterparts at the state level to continue developing solutions that benefit the city of Bennettsville,” explained Mayor Abraham.
“I am very excited to see what the future holds for Marlboro County,” said SC State Senator JD Chaplin, who shared his legislative passion lies in strengthening what he feels are the state’s lax DUI laws.
Additionally, state representatives Luck and Hayes said they are focusing on continuing to increase teacher pay across the Marlboro County School District, while adding that repairing Lake Paul Wallace remains a primary focus for the state.
Other notable guests in attendance were Marlboro County Chamber President Alexa Boan, Bennettsville Police Chief Sammy Crosland, Bennettsville City Administrator William Simon, and Sheriff Larry McNeil.