51st Spotlight on Agriculture Honors Laurens County Farmers

Nearly 400 farmers, families, and supporters gathered at First Presbyterian Church in Clinton on Thursday, March 13, to celebrate the 51st Annual Spotlight on Agriculture. The annual event highlights the dedication and resilience of Laurens County’s farming community, recognizing individuals who have made outstanding contributions to agriculture.

Guests enjoyed a meal featuring Shealy’s BBQ before hearing from guest speaker Chip Carter, a respected agricultural journalist and producer of Where The Food Comes From. Carter, who has spent years telling the stories of farmers and food producers across the country, spoke about the evolving challenges and innovations in the agricultural industry. He emphasized how modern farmers must be not only skilled in traditional farming practices but also adaptable to technological advancements, environmental concerns, and shifting consumer demands. His insights reinforced the vital role that Laurens County’s agricultural entrepreneurs play in feeding the nation. Several segments of Where The Food Comes From feature South Carolina farms, highlighting the state’s contributions to agriculture. Viewers can explore these stories on the show’s YouTube channel.

Following Carter’s remarks, the much-anticipated awards presentation honored local farmers, students, and agricultural leaders for their hard work and dedication:

Future Farmers of America Members of the Year

• Andrew Workman – Clinton High School Outstanding FFA Member of the Year
• Allison Jewell – Laurens District 55 High School Outstanding FFA Member of the Year
• Nate Campbell – Laurens District 55 High School Horticulture Student of the Year

Laurens County Extension Advisory Committee Scholarships

• Livie Wham
• Senia Mireva Lopez
• Andrew Workman

Outstanding Woodlands Manager of the Year

• Bruce Davidson

Outstanding Cattleman of the Year

• Richard and Heath Coggins

Outstanding Broiler Producers of the Year (Amick Farms)

• Tommy Holsonback
  

Outstanding Broiler Producers of the Year (Best Dressed Chicken)

• Tim Faulkner

Outstanding Dairyman of the Year

• Amber Ettinger

Outstanding Horticulturalists of the Year

• Randy and Carol Davis

Special Commodity Producers of the Year

• Steve and Michelle Ellis

Farm Family of the Year

• Charles and Betsy McKinney and family

Agriculturalist of the Year

• David McKittrick

The Spotlight on Agriculture serves as a reminder of the deep agricultural roots that sustain Laurens County. With a significant portion of the county’s land dedicated to farming, agriculture remains a cornerstone of the local economy and way of life. Events like this not only honor the individuals who work tirelessly to provide food and resources but also reinforce the importance of supporting and preserving the farming tradition for future generations.

Cover photo: David McKittrick (Agriculturalist of the Year) and family