It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Lexington County Museum gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Lexington, SC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Lisa helped my family understand the best options for my parents and the resources available.”
“Always Best Care has been a lifesaver for our family. We have worked with them”
“Thank you for the care you gave to my dad. He did not have any”
“Always Best Care provided excellent care when I was discharged from Atrium after surgery- the”
“Lisa and her team at Always Best Care have been a great partner and resource”
“Amazing staff and services. Much appreciated.”
“I am a past client of this provider Always Best Care was just absolutely wonderful. I”
“I love working for this company.”
“I used this nursing service for my cousin Pat who had cancer. I can not”
“I love being able to work with this company, the owners are great people and”
“Services were geared according to need. We were looking at rehab and they were willing”
“I am a past client of this provider Services were geared according to need. We were”
“I am a past client of this provider I used this nursing service for my cousin”
“Chuck and his personnel are truly the best. They helped us with mom and always”
“Lisa helped my family understand the best options for my parents and the resources available. She has great contacts and helped guide us thru the process. We received wonderful service. Thanks!”
“Always Best Care has been a lifesaver for our family. We have worked with them twice, both in emergency situations and they have treated us as if we were their only clients. Within an hour of our first call, we had paperwork completed and a caregiver on the way – and that was a holiday weekend. When the second emergency occurred, we knew exactly who to contact. We truly appreciate everything that Lisa, Melissa and the entire team have done for our family.”
“Thank you for the care you gave to my dad. He did not have any family living close to him. My sister and I were relived to know he was well taken care of. The caregivers truly care about your loved ones.”
“Always Best Care provided excellent care when I was discharged from Atrium after surgery- the office staff and caregivers were professional and caring- would definitely recommend if you need care at home-”
“Lisa and her team at Always Best Care have been a great partner and resource in providing services to our patients!”
“Amazing staff and services. Much appreciated.”
“I am a past client of this provider Always Best Care was just absolutely wonderful. I needed to qualify people who could deal with my sister with brain cancer. My sister would throw people in and out of her house; it was crazy. She died on December 5th. Always Best Care sent incredible people. I don't know where they came from, but they had one girl who was the only person my sister never attempted to throw out of the house. I'd never hear one bad word about this woman who was actually pulling double shifts at the end because my sister liked her so much. For some reason, this woman understood my sister and brain cancer. Brain cancer is hard to deal with because people could be pretty mean and abusive and they don't know what they're doing really. My sister was also going blind at the same time. It was not easy. I just wanted to say what wonderful care we received from Always Best Care. It was amazing. They were just coming and being there. My sister was crazy, and she didn't want anybody overnight, until she finally let me have someone come in overnight. On that night, she died. She got to die in her home, which is what I'm trying to do because that too was the most important thing of all. Always Best Care was able to staff at short notice and send really good people. I was impressed, and I would highly recommend them. They would help my sister get to the bathroom. She weighed 70 pounds when she died, but she was still able to walk. She had cancers on both her femurs, and her blood pressure was 80/47. They just helped with everything, like fixing her small meals, fixing coffee, and talking to her if she wanted to talk or not talking to her if she didn't want to talk. They were just very great with their help. My sister had brain cancer and she was belligerent. Always Best Care would find people within their staff. Also, it didn't take them long, I didn't have to wait. We had letters from others saying they don't have staff right now. With Always Best Care, I did it over the phone with a woman who was a Godsend. I think the caregiver was sent almost the first day and was there every day except on the weekend when they sent someone else. That person seemed to work out OK, too, which amazed me. For some reason, these people knew how to appease someone who is really crazy. It was the cancer; it was in my sister's head. You have to be tough-skinned and just realize that this is the disease talking to you and not a person. They were able to do that, and I feel very blessed.”
“I love working for this company.”
“I used this nursing service for my cousin Pat who had cancer. I can not express the level of care and compassion that was shown for her. The nurses felt like family! Especially Alicia. You treated my cousin as if she was your family and I can't thank you enough for that. You not only took care of her but us also. I would recommend this service 100%! We only used them for 1 month as my cousin passed quickly. I d not have a single negative remark. Thank you Chuck! Your nurses are amazing.”
“I love being able to work with this company, the owners are great people and support me daily! We have many calls to work on performance and continue to grow and learn!”
“Services were geared according to need. We were looking at rehab and they were willing to see what was needed. Very flexible and focused needs of patient All caregivers were on time We had a great experience”
“I am a past client of this provider Services were geared according to need. We were looking at rehab and they were willing to see what was needed. Very flexible and focused needs of patient All caregivers were on time We had a great experience”
“I am a past client of this provider I used this nursing service for my cousin Pat who had cancer. I can not express the level of care and compassion that was shown for her. The nurses felt like family! Especially Alicia. You treated my cousin as if she was your family and I can't thank you enough for that. You not only took care of her but us also. I would recommend this service 100%! We only used them for 1 month as my cousin passed quickly. I d not have a single negative remark. Thank you Chuck! Your nurses are amazing. Donna O.”
“Chuck and his personnel are truly the best. They helped us with mom and always focused on the care and not a much of processes and forms. I would highly recommend them to all.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Gibson Pond Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Private Property or visit Laurance Corley House, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Lexington, SC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Lexington, SC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Lexington, SC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
A Lexington County man has been sentenced to 30 years for the fentanyl death of a 15-year-old girl. (ECSO)LEXINGTON COUNTY, S.C. (WACH) — A Lexington County man has been sentenced to 30 years in prison after the death of a 15-year-old girl.Brian F. Rose, Jr., of West Columbia, pled guilty on April 23rd in Lexington County General Sessions Co...
A Lexington County man has been sentenced to 30 years for the fentanyl death of a 15-year-old girl. (ECSO)
LEXINGTON COUNTY, S.C. (WACH) — A Lexington County man has been sentenced to 30 years in prison after the death of a 15-year-old girl.
Brian F. Rose, Jr., of West Columbia, pled guilty on April 23rd in Lexington County General Sessions Court to Distribution of Narcotics - 2nd offense.
This offense resulted in the death of 15-year-old Tara Sanderson on January 26, 2022, due to a fentanyl overdose.
Rose was sentenced to 20 years for distributing fentanyl to the minor victim.
As a result of a separate investigation, Rose also pled guilty to an additional charge of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor – 1st degree and received a sentence of 10 years, consecutive.
Rose also has a prior conviction for narcotics possession.
Rose, who was age 23 at the time of the offense, purchased a quantity of what he believed to be heroin on January 26, 2022, and provided the drug to Tara Sanderson, who was an acquaintance of Rose. The drug purchase contained fentanyl.
According to officials, Sanderson quickly became symptomatic and then lost consciousness.
A witness attempted to intervene and reported to law enforcement that Rose told her, “Don’t call the cops.” Ultimately, a third party called 911 and reported that Tara was unconscious.
EMS arrived and attempted life-saving measures, but Sanderson was later pronounced dead of a fentanyl overdose.
Eleventh Circuit Solicitor Rick Hubbard stated the following:
“It is impossible to overstate the dangers of fentanyl within our community and the risks that this drug poses to young people. This case is a prime example of why law enforcement and prosecutors need a statute on drug-induced homicide. There is a fentanyl-induced homicide bill currently pending at the Statehouse and we hope the legislature will provide us with the tools we need to fight this war.”
Sanderson's family has expressed the need for a law that is specifically designed to criminalize any narcotics distribution that results in the death of another person.
During the sentencing, Sanderson's father, Donald, said the following:
“Tara was a beautiful girl who loved gymnastics and cheerleading; she always knew how to light up a room. This man took the one thing in my life that meant the most to me. She was just a baby no father should have to bury their child at the age of 15.”
Tara’s grandparents, Kathy and David Nicholson, also addressed the Court and said the following:
“I could be here for a very long time, like forever, talking about all of Tara’s wonderful and amazing qualities. She brought so much joy to all of us. This has devastated our family, no words can begin to describe the heartache.”
Rose has been transported to the S.C. Department of Corrections to begin his sentence.
This case was prosecuted by Eleventh Circuit Deputy Solicitor Suzanne Mayes and investigated by the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department.
A new spot for oysters, wood-fired pizzas and more is being planned in the heart of Lexington.Mother’s Oysters + Pies plans to open in September in Shoppes at Flight Deck plaza in Lexington. That’s at 109 Old Chapin Road, near the intersection of Old Chapin and W. Main Street.The restaurant will be, according to a release, “designed to channel the lively spirit of a Mediterranean coastal town” and will “blend the energy of a neighborhood favorite with the culinary craftsmanship found in fine dining...
A new spot for oysters, wood-fired pizzas and more is being planned in the heart of Lexington.
Mother’s Oysters + Pies plans to open in September in Shoppes at Flight Deck plaza in Lexington. That’s at 109 Old Chapin Road, near the intersection of Old Chapin and W. Main Street.
The restaurant will be, according to a release, “designed to channel the lively spirit of a Mediterranean coastal town” and will “blend the energy of a neighborhood favorite with the culinary craftsmanship found in fine dining.”
Mother’s will have fresh, regional oysters served raw or charbroiled. It also will serve wood-fired, Neapolitan-style pizzas cooked in a traditional Marra Forni oven.
It will also serve pastas, Southern favorites such as shrimp & grits, seafood boils and more. The eatery will have 140 seats across two levels, including terrace seating and two full bars.
Jonathan Stambolitis is co-founder of the Purty Projects development company and the owner of Mother’s.
Mother’s is meant to complement Purty’s under-development Sandpiper Square project, which will bring 31 new homes to property just off Old Chapin Road and Snelgrove Road, behind the Shoppes at Flight Deck. A ceremonial groundbreaking for Sandpiper Square took place on April 24. The first houses there are slated to be completed by the end of September.
Jonathan’s father is Ted Stambolitis, who opened the Flight Deck restaurant in 1992, and created the surrounding shopping center when he moved the restaurant from the other side of Old Chapin Road. Jonathan’s sister Victoria runs the neighboring Hangar Provisions eatery.
The name “Mother’s,” Jonathan Stambolitis said, is a play on mother of pearl, which is the inside of an oyster shell.
“We really want to embrace heartfelt hospitality there, which is near and dear to our hearts,” he said. “I grew up in the hospitality industry, so putting hospitality at the forefront is really where Mother’s is coming from.”
There will be options for the oysters at Mother’s, Jonathan Stambolitis said.
“We’ve got this big wood-fired oven and grill, we’ll be doing beautiful chargrilled and wood-fired oysters, as well as oysters on the half-shell,” Stambolitis said. “We’ll really focus on local oysters. I’ve lived in Charleston for eight years now and we’ve developed some great relationships with local oyster farms. We plan on leaning as much as we can, as far into the season as possible, on local oysters from South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia. And, when need be, we’ll reach a little further up the East Coast, as well.”
Stambolitis was involved with the former Arkos restaurant at the Shoppes at Flight Deck a number of years ago, and noted the popularity of one of its cocktails, the Avocadotini. He said a version of the drink will be resurrected at Mother’s.
“We are going to be bringing back the Avocadotini, but with a little twist to it,” Stambolitis said. “I’m so excited for people to kind of try this new twist. We are going to bring it back as a frozen cocktail.”
With both Sandpiper Square and Mother’s Oysters + Pies slated to debut in the fall, Stambolitis said he is hoping the two projects benefit one another.
“We are trying to create a vibrant downtown neighborhood that is as fun as it is beautiful,” Stambolitis said.
This story was originally published April 30, 2025 at 1:57 PM.
The State
Chris Trainor is a retail reporter for The State and has been working for newspapers in South Carolina for more than 20 years, including previous stops at the (Greenwood) Index-Journal and the (Columbia) Free Times. He is the winner of a host of South Carolina Press Association awards, including honors in column writing, government beat reporting, profile writing, food writing, business beat reporting, election coverage, social media and more.
COLUMBIA — A jury awarded $1.19 million to a Lexington County man who alleged Richland County discriminated against him for his disabilities and retaliated after he filed a workers’ compensation claim and took medical leave during the COVID-19 pandemic.The jury's decision in favor of former Richland County economic development office research analyst Tim Duerr led to a March 31 court ruling ordering Richland County to pay the damages, along wit...
COLUMBIA — A jury awarded $1.19 million to a Lexington County man who alleged Richland County discriminated against him for his disabilities and retaliated after he filed a workers’ compensation claim and took medical leave during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The jury's decision in favor of former Richland County economic development office research analyst Tim Duerr led to a March 31 court ruling ordering Richland County to pay the damages, along with post-judgment interest at 4.1%. In a statement, attorneys for Duerr called the ruling one of several significant decisions on employee rights under the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Family and Medical Leave Act, along with state workers’ compensation laws.
"The jury’s decision reflects the clear reality that employers have a responsibility to comply with federal and state employment laws, and when they fail to do so, there are serious consequences," said Shannon Polvi, one of Duerr’s attorneys. "This case is a victory not just for Mr. Duerr, but for all employees who deserve protection under the law."
According to a Richland County court summons, the military determined that Duerr, a six-year U.S. Navy veteran, was disabled due to high blood pressure and arthritis in his left ankle. Other disabilities included diabetes, irregular heart rhythms and gastric reflux, the summons said.
On July 24, 2019, Duerr tore a tendon in his right arm while helping his supervisor, economic development director Jeff Ruble, install a monitor to a wall in his office, the summons said. The tendon tore as he shifted the weight to his right arm while attempting to move wires with his left, it said. The injury required surgery and left a permanent impairment and deformity.
He filed a workers' compensation claim and reached a settlement the following summer.
After the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020, Ruble pushed for all economic development staff to stay in the office, but Duerr requested to work from home as a reasonable accommodation under the ADA, which the county’s human resources department approved, the summons said.
On Jan. 4, 2021, Duerr and his family contracted COVID-19, and he received a doctor’s note for two weeks of medical leave. He resumed working remotely later that month.
While working remotely, attorneys said Duerr met expectations, citing a virtual private network (VPN) that tracked his work hours.
A week after returning from medical leave, Ruble and a county HR representative told Duerr in a Zoom meeting that his role was being replaced by a marketing position and that he was being fired, the summons said. Although he was encouraged to apply for the new role, attorneys said the position didn’t exist, the document said.
Duerr’s access to the county server was cut during the meeting, attorneys said. He was also told to return all equipment within 30 days, they said.
During a following ADA complaint process, attorneys said Duerr learned the marketing position wasn’t in the economic development office's strategic plan, which they said Ruble hadn’t submitted for approval.
Although Duerr was reinstated, he was told his research role would be replaced with marketing duties, according to court records. On Feb. 25, 2021, he was fired a second time during another Zoom meeting, the records said.
According to the summons, a notice from Assistant County Administrator Lori Thomas said the county fired him again over comments he made in a meeting where attorneys said he was encouraged to speak openly about his first termination. The termination notice also cited his communications with his supervisor and county administration weeks later, attorneys said.
Attorneys for Duerr say the county fired him twice for false reasons and that his disabilities, including one from a workplace injury involving a supervisor, qualified him for federal protections.
When reached by phone, Ruble declined to comment on the allegations and referred the request to County Administrator Leonardo Brown. A county spokesperson said in an emailed statement that it “follows the employment best practice standard of not commenting on personnel matters.”
In a statement, Duerr said he was grateful for the jury’s verdict.
"This win means so much to me and my family. Holding Richland County accountable wasn’t easy, but it was necessary," he said. "I hope this outcome shows that speaking up matters, and that change is possible.”
The Lexington baseball team is building momentum as the playoffs near.The Wildcats clinched the Region 4-5A championship on Friday with an 8-2 win over rival River Bluff. It was Lexington’s fifth region title under coach Brian Hucks and the Wildcats look like they can make another deep playoff run.The Wildcats won the Class 5A championship last year and have their eyes set on another one this year.“That is the first goal,” Hucks said. “We have a lot more goals we can accomplish. But winning this r...
The Lexington baseball team is building momentum as the playoffs near.
The Wildcats clinched the Region 4-5A championship on Friday with an 8-2 win over rival River Bluff. It was Lexington’s fifth region title under coach Brian Hucks and the Wildcats look like they can make another deep playoff run.
The Wildcats won the Class 5A championship last year and have their eyes set on another one this year.
“That is the first goal,” Hucks said. “We have a lot more goals we can accomplish. But winning this region is tough and you can never take it for granted. It is a grind every freaking game. Incredibly, proud of them.”
Lexington split its first region series with Irmo but dropped only one conference game the rest of the way. The Wildcats, who finished third in last week’s Forest Acres Classic, have won 11 of their last 13 games.
Lexington lost a few key members from last year’s championship squad and new faces have stepped up this season, including pitcher Reidar Carlson. The sophomore retired the first nine batters he faced and allowed just two runs on two hits while striking out four in 5 ? innings.
Carlson’s fastball hit 91 MPH during various times against the Gators.
“Reider’s been incredible all year,” Hucks said. “He has been composed, under control. Nothing fazes him. He threw strikes and let the defense play behind him.”
Grant Kissner led Lexington with three hits and an RBI. Logan Blight, another player who has stepped into a bigger role this season, had two RBI singles for the Wildcats.
“We started out a little rocky,” Blight said. “We just went on a run and it is a good group of guys. We have each other’s back. … And we have a young group of kids who put up runs on the board so it is a good group all the way around.”
South Carolina signee Brandon Cromer added two hits while Allen Hegler and Bryce Mobley each had an RBI.
Lexington scored runs in each of the first three innings and blew it open with a four-run fifth inning to lead 7-0.
With the region wrapped up, the Wildcats have their eyes set on a possible No. 1 seed for the Class 5A Upper State playoffs which begin next month. Lexington is guaranteed a bye for the first round and has three regular-season games left which could boost their MaxPreps RPI, which is used to determine seeding.
Lexington plays River Bluff again on Saturday in a non-region game but finishes out the regular season with a two-game series against Blythewood next week. The Bengals are currently the No. 1 team in the Upper State in the RPI rankings.
“Playing here is special,” Hucks said. “I feel like if we get on a run, who knows how the RPI shakes out but it will be close.”
Maddox Free led River Bluff with two hits and an RBI and Ashley Powell also had an RBI.
River Bluff has to wait until Monday to find out its region finish. The Gators lead Chapin and Dutch Fork by a half-game for second in the region standings. Dutch Fork and Chapin each have makeup games.
If it ends in a three-way tie, River Bluff will finish fourth in the region.
Gilbert 3, Gray Collegiate 2: Hudson Williams’ walk-off single in the bottom of the eighth helped the Indians (20-3, 13-1) clinch the No. 1 seed from Region 4-4A. Gilbert leads Airport, which plays Brookland-Cayce, on Monday, but holds the tiebreaker over the Eagles.
Cooper Price led Gilbert with two hits. Chase Starkey was 1-for-2 with an RBI for Gray.
Batesburg-Leesville 8, Saluda 2: Brayden Hallman threw a complete-game and also drove in two runs as the Panthers clinched the Region 3-2A title.
It was Batesburg-Leesville’s first region title since 2008. Hallman struck out eight and allowed two runs on six hits. Jack Bouknight was 3-for-4 with two RBIs while John Sawyer had two hits and two RBIs.
Ben Lippen 13, Hammond 6: The Falcons scored nine runs in the first inning to win the SCISA 1-4A title.
Breon Earle hit a grand slam and David McElveen added a two-run homer for Ben Lippen.
Brewer Lamotte homered twice and Colt Babic also homered for Hammond.
This story was originally published April 25, 2025 at 9:13 PM.
The State
Lou Bezjak is the High School Sports Prep Coordinator for The (Columbia) State and (Hilton Head) Island Packet. He previously worked at the Florence Morning News and had covered high school sports in South Carolina since 2002. Lou is a two-time South Carolina Sports Writer of the Year by the National Sports Media Association. Support my work with a digital subscription
LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56) — The Lexington-Louisville rivalry is soon to take center stage in professional soccer.Both city pride and bragging rights are on the line for Lexington Sporting Club and Louisville City Football Club.It’s the first time the two clubs will meet in the same league. LSC joined the USL Championship league this past season, and Lou City has been a part since 2015.When does Lexington SC play Louisville City FC?...
LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56) — The Lexington-Louisville rivalry is soon to take center stage in professional soccer.
Both city pride and bragging rights are on the line for Lexington Sporting Club and Louisville City Football Club.
It’s the first time the two clubs will meet in the same league. LSC joined the USL Championship league this past season, and Lou City has been a part since 2015.
The Commonwealth Cup includes a two-game series between the clubs. It kicks off at 8 p.m. EST on Thursday, May 1, when LSC makes the trip down I-64, playing in Lynn Family Stadium.
Lou City will make its way to Lexington for a second game on Saturday, July 26, in the Lexington SC Stadium.
Catch the matchup live on FOX 56 starting at 8 p.m. EST.
The Commonwealth Club can also be watched on ESPN+.
Two of LSC’s players spent time in Louisville playing for Lou City. Current LSC midfielder Speedy Williams was with the club from 2017 to 2020, and forward Cameron Lancaster from 2021 to 2023.
The two squads faced off in the preseason and will now look to do it again on Thursday, May 1, when it counts.
Tickets are available at SeekGeek.com, starting at $14.
In preparation for the big game, Lexington SC is helping fans prepare with its Republic Bank Road Rally.
A $55 ticket gets you round-trip bus transportation from Lexington to Louisville that departs from Lexington SC Stadium at 4 p.m. on Thursday. Also included is a pre-match social at West Sixth NuLu with food provided, two West Sixth NuLu beer tickets, a commemorative scarf, and a rally towel.
You can purchase Road Rally tickets here.
843-640-0129
