The News

Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Solicitor Cindy Crick

First Monday was pleased to host Cindy Crick, who is the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Solicitor for Greenville and Pickens, SC.

Solicitor Crick shared insights into her role and discussed the ongoing efforts she and her staff are making to reduce the backlog of older cases and bring them to trial. She also addressed the devastating impact of drugs and gang activity in our community, emphasizing the pain and suffering these crimes inflict on families and neighborhoods. Her remarks highlighted the importance of holding offenders accountable while working to bring justice and a greater sense of safety to those affected.

Solicitor Crick was a state prosecutor for 8 years in the 7th Circuit Solicitor’s Office in Spartanburg, SC. While there, she spearheaded the Violence Against Women Task Force and gained valuable experience in prosecuting cases involving criminal domestic violence, sexual assault/HIV exposure, and domestic homicide. Cindy has extensive first-chair trial experience, a background in the scientific and technical issues of complex cases.

Cindy Crick was appointed in June 2025 to serve as the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Solicitor. She previously ran her own law practice, worked at Nelson Mullins, and served as Chief of Staff for Representative Trey Gowdy in the United States House of Representatives.

SC State Treasurer Curtis Loftis

First Monday was pleased to host South Carolina State Treasurer Curtis Loftis at our July meeting.

Treasurer Loftis shared insights into his role as the state’s banker—managing, investing, and safeguarding more than $76 billion in public funds for South Carolina state government. He also told memorable stories of returning unclaimed money and property to individuals, estates, and businesses.

“It’s your money, and we want to give it back to you!” he said. “From old utility deposits to uncashed payroll checks, life insurance proceeds, and unredeemed shares of stock, this is the first place you should look for your missing money.”

He also discussed tax-advantaged education contributions, which are 100% deductible from South Carolina state income tax, and Palmetto ABLE® accounts, which support financial independence and disability savings for eligible individuals and families.

Treasurer Loftis encouraged attendees to apply for statewide boards and commissions, noting that more than 1,000 positions remain unfilled as of 2026.

Cody Simpson, Candidate for South Carolina’s Commissioner of Agriculture

First Monday was pleased to welcome Cody Simpson, candidate for South Carolina Commissioner of Agriculture.

A fifth-generation South Carolina farmer, endorsed by President Donald Trump and Governor Henry McMaster, Cody Simpson spoke about the importance of protecting South Carolina’s farms, families, and future.

Mr. Simpson shared how growing up on his family’s farm instilled in him the values of hard work, responsibility, and faith. He emphasized that agriculture is not simply an issue he discusses—it is a way of life and a fundamental part of who he is.

During his remarks, he discussed the challenges South Carolina farmers face each season, including long hours, uncertainty, regulatory changes, political obstacles, rising costs, and personal hardships.

Mr. Simpson stated that these challenges are why he believes South Carolina agriculture deserves a Department of Agriculture that works for farmers rather than against them. He outlined his vision for supporting the state’s agricultural community and ensuring that farming remains a strong and vital part of South Carolina’s economy and heritage.