Manning store invites public to 1st Supporting the Blue

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MANNING - The folks at Advance Auto Parts, 602 S. Mill St., are showing their support for the men and women in blue by hosting the first "Supporting the Blue."

"These men and women are a part of the community who look out for us and keep us safe," said Calvin White, manager at Manning's Advance Auto Parts. "They are our friends and neighbors. We see them on the lake, in the grocery stories and in Walmart. They are regular people who do an extraordinary job."

White said that this event is something his corporate store has been wanting to do for the community.

"We're excited to host the event," White added. "We will have officers from the Clarendon County Sheriff's Office, Manning Police Department, the South Carolina Highway Patrol and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. They'll be bringing vehicles and have officers here to meet everyone. You'll be able to thank them for all they do for the community keeping us safe."

Along with the displays, vehicles and officers, White said his store will have grilled hamburgers and hotdogs for everyone to enjoy.

"This event is a chance for us to show our support for these brave individuals who risk everything for us," he said. "We want everyone to come out, meet the officers and have a great time."

Along with Supporting the Blue, White said his store is also collecting nonperishable food items for Turbeville Children's Home.

"We did this last year and had a good turnout," he said. "We hope that we do an even better job this year. We will deliver all the food before Thanksgiving."

White said donations of staples, including flour, rice, sugar and canned goods would be greatly appreciated.

"It doesn't need to anything big," he said. "A small bag or rice or a couple of canned good would help them out tremendously."

Donnie Drose, a member of the Clarendon County Law Enforcement Officers Association, said he was grateful for Advance Auto Parts and White's commitment to law enforcement in Clarendon.

Drose said the CCLEOA, which is comprised of all county and municipal law enforcement personnel, meets quarterly for lunch to exchange information and ideas.

"At our last luncheon, Tonia Mallett-Smith met with us to talk about Carolina COPS," Drose added. "We want to begin hosting events throughout the year just like this one to help improve the relationship between law enforcement and the community."

Drose said that the CCSO and other agencies will have displays set up which may include child safety seat inspections and children ID kits.

"We are looking forward to visiting with folks and getting to know them," Drose said. "We'd also like to thank Mr. White and Advance Auto Parts for hosting the event."