Pellman named to head Dennis Center in Bishopville after long-time leader retires

SUBMITTED

The Board of Directors of the Dennis Community Development Corp. of Lee County announced it has elected William Pellman to become chairman of its governing board. Pellman replaces long-time outgoing Chairman Willie Blyther, who recently announced his retirement from DCDC.

The DCDC is the caretaker organization for historic Dennis High School, which is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The landmark school building at 410 W. Cedar Lane in Bishopville serves as the Dennis Community Center, which is used for social and cultural events in Bishopville and Lee County.

Pellman, a native of Bishopville, attended first and second grades at the historic building when it served as Dennis Elementary School during the 1950s. The school was closed in 1970.

He said, "It's an honor to have the opportunity to contribute to the DCDC's continued success and to lead the Dennis Center as a forward-moving institution as we grow into the second decade of the 21st century. The center historically has been a place where the story of the African-American experience and heritage in Bishopville and Lee County is often told through current cultural events and activities. Going forward, we look forward to expanding the Dennis Center as a showcase cultural and educational venue for presenting and preserving the rich history and culture of all the people of Bishopville, Lee County and the greater Pee Dee and Midlands regions of South Carolina."

The auditorium and adjoining kitchen at the center are available for group meetings, weddings, retirement and birthday parties, family repasts, concerts and live stage performances.

For reservations email denniscenter29010@gmail.com or call (843) 291-3733.The Dennis Center is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit historical social and cultural organization. All charitable donations are fully tax deductible and can be sent to PO Box 1501, Bishopville, SC 29010. Call the center at (843) 291-3733.