Meet our Hosts for Ritz Fest '26!

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Lee Foster was born and reared in Prosperity, SC.  He is a graduate of the University of South Carolina, The South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy, University of Arkansas Rural Executive Management Institute, and The FBI Academy Leadership School. Sheriff Foster began his career with the Little Mountain Police in 1978, transferring to t

Lee Foster was born and reared in Prosperity, SC.  He is a graduate of the University of South Carolina, The South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy, University of Arkansas Rural Executive Management Institute, and The FBI Academy Leadership School. Sheriff Foster began his career with the Little Mountain Police in 1978, transferring to the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office in 1979.  He then worked for the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy from 1984-1989. In 1989 Lee Foster was elected Sheriff of Newberry County.

Scott currently serves as the Senior Director of Field Operations for The Jason Foundation where he oversees all of the JFI affiliate offices in the country. Scott has been with The Jason Foundation for five years. Prior to that, Scott spent twenty-seven years in education in Alabama where he served as a science teacher, coach, assistant 

Scott currently serves as the Senior Director of Field Operations for The Jason Foundation where he oversees all of the JFI affiliate offices in the country. Scott has been with The Jason Foundation for five years. Prior to that, Scott spent twenty-seven years in education in Alabama where he served as a science teacher, coach, assistant principal, and principal. He holds master’s degrees in Comprehensive Science Education and School Administration.

The Jason Foundation was formed in 1997 following the death of Jason Flatt. What started as a vision for Clark Flatt, Jason’s father has now grown into one of the leading youth suicide prevention non-profits in the country with offices in almost every state.

Jacqueline A. Holmes has lived in Newberry since 1982 with her husband Mr. Wilbert T. Holmes Sr. They have 5 adult children. Having received education degrees from both USC and Clemson. Jackie put in 38 years in the classroom. A Dean’s and President’s list student from both schools, Jackie joined the US Army and served for 38 years, inclu

Jacqueline A. Holmes has lived in Newberry since 1982 with her husband Mr. Wilbert T. Holmes Sr. They have 5 adult children. Having received education degrees from both USC and Clemson. Jackie put in 38 years in the classroom. A Dean’s and President’s list student from both schools, Jackie joined the US Army and served for 38 years, including Desert Storm, before retiring as a Master Sergeant promotable to a Sergeant Major in 2017. Despite retiring from Education in December 2013, in ’21 she returned to Gallman Elementary where she currently teaches 2nd Grade. Jackie is a VERY active community member, serving Newberry through multiple organizations  as well as our state as a James Clyburn fellow.  Jackie Holmes was elected as the first black female to the Newberry City Council, in July 2020 and was recently reelected for a four-year term. Councilwoman Holmes wrote the proposal for the first Juneteenth, in which the city celebrated year three this past June. She faithfully serves the West End Side of Newberry. During her off time, she enjoys delivering food to those in need, assisting those in need of social services type assistance, going to antique car shows, driving her 1964 Chevrolet Caviar, shopping, traveling, reading, writing, and listening to Country Music especially, Darius Rucker and Gospel Music. One of her mottoes is perfect for Ritz Fest: LIVE, LOVE and LAUGH!

Dr. Paul Dobyns is in his 19th year in public education and has the pleasure of serving as the Principal at Mid-Carolina Middle School.  Dr. Dobyns received his undergraduate degree from Appalachian State University, master's degrees from the University of South Carolina, and his doctorate from Arizona State University.  He is the proud h

Dr. Paul Dobyns is in his 19th year in public education and has the pleasure of serving as the Principal at Mid-Carolina Middle School.  Dr. Dobyns received his undergraduate degree from Appalachian State University, master's degrees from the University of South Carolina, and his doctorate from Arizona State University.  He is the proud husband of Stacey Dobyns, who is the music teacher at Prosperity-Rikard Elementary and proud father to Emma and Jack.