Monday, Sep. 28, 2009

Rantin: Deputy had bead on marksmanship award

Andrew J. Morell is a master marksman.

The Lexington County Sheriff's deputy recently received the Clifford A. Moyer Marksmanship Award from the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy.

The 30-year-old Morell earned the highest score in the firearms qualification course in the academy's basic law enforcement officer training class. He was formally honored during a basic law enforcement officer graduation ceremony at the state Criminal Justice Academy earlier this month.

Morell initially was hired as a correctional officer at the county detention center in September 2007. He was named a law enforcement correctional officer in July.

Sheriff James Metts said Morell has excelled in each of his job assignments and credited in particular his willingness to assist fellow officers.

"We are honored that Andrew was recognized for his superb marksmanship skills," Metts said. "Andrew is an energetic, bright and hard-working deputy. "

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Spots are still open for this week's golf tournament to benefit the Woodyard Fund.

The Old Guard Golf Association will host the tournament Thursday at Northwoods Golf Club off Parklane and Farrow roads in Northeast Richland.

Woody Wyndham of "Oldies" station at 98.5 FM is the celebrity guest for this year's event, which kicks off at 10 a.m. Thursday.

Proceeds from the tournament will support the Woodyard Fund, which provides financial assistance to families struggling to pay heating bills during the winter months.

In the past 20 years, the Old Guard Golf Association has contributed more than $85,000 to the Woodyard Fund, which is administered by the Salvation Army. Last year, the fund helped nearly 50 families in the eight Midlands counties who had received a notice that their power was about to be cut off.

The registration fee for Thursday's golf tournament is $50 per golfer and includes lunch. Golfers can register in advance by calling Doug Steimle at (803) 462-6082 or Gary Geddens at (803) 409-9695. Or register at 9 a.m. the day of the event.

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