No Damsel In Distress

  August 1, 2024
Tom Poland

By Tom Poland   Late May, I made one last effort to see the rare rocky shoals spider lilies before they play out. Rain and high water had deviled the flowers and me all spring. Not this time. I made three trips in three days and nature rewarded me. Each time I visit the shoals…

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Posted in: lowcountrybizsc, midlandsbiz, upstatebizsc, laurenscountybuzz   Category: life, on-the-move, the-arts

Join the Laurens County Touchdown Club: Celebrate and Support Local Football

  July 31, 2024

Football season is almost here and the Laurens County Touchdown Club, an initiative of the Laurens County Chamber of Commerce, invites you to become part of a vibrant community dedicated to honoring football excellence and fostering camaraderie among Laurens County students and fans. Established to unite football enthusiasts, the Club provides an opportunity to enjoy lunch…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: headlines, laurens-county-sports, on-the-move, sports

Yates Named Dean of Lander’s College of Science and Mathematics

  July 31, 2024

Dr. Jennifer Yates has been named the dean of Lander University’s College of Science and Mathematics. Yates, who had been serving as the interim dean of the college, assumed the role on July 1. She is also a professor of neurobiology and serves as the director for the University’s Center for Faculty Excellence. Yates holds…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: education, on-the-move

New Partnership with University of Mount Olive Benefits PTC Graduates

  July 31, 2024

Piedmont Technical College (PTC) has entered into a strategic partnership with the University of Mount Olive (UMO) through the UMO Promise program, offering significant educational advancement opportunities for PTC students. This partnership enables PTC students who earn an associate of diversified agriculture and horticulture technology degree to seamlessly transfer to UMO to pursue a bachelor’s…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: education, on-the-move

A Gathering of Quilters Day at the Laurens County Museum on August 17

  July 31, 2024

Quilting enthusiasts are invited to join the Laurens County Museum for a day filled with fun, food, and camaraderie at the “Gathering of Quilters Day” on Saturday, August 17, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This exciting event will take place at the museum located at 116 South Public Square, Laurens, SC. Pre-registration by August…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: education, on-the-move, the-arts

Commemorating Bravery: 244th Anniversary Celebration of Patriot Victory at Musgrove’s Mill

  July 31, 2024

The 244th Anniversary Celebration of the Patriot Victory at Musgrove’s Mill is set to take place on Saturday, August 17, at 10:00 a.m. at Musgrove Mill State Park. This event, sponsored by the General James Williams Chapter of the South Carolina Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, is a recognized state event. The…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: education, on-the-move

Badcock Home Furniture & More to Close All Stores by End of October – Liquidation Sale Starts in Laurens Location

  July 31, 2024

Badcock Home Furniture & More, a retail chain with over 380 stores across the southern United States, will officially close all its locations, including the one in Laurens, by the end of October. This decision comes seven months after the company was acquired by Conn’s HomePlus, which has since filed for bankruptcy. The Laurens store,…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: on-the-move, retail

Crave Clinton Expands Hours to Support Teachers and Business Clients

  July 31, 2024

With the summer coming to an end, Crave Clinton is stepping up to support the community as kids and teachers head back to school. Recognizing the need for teachers to start the day strong, Crave Clinton has decided to adjust their hours to better accommodate the busy schedules of both business and school clients. Starting…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: on-the-move, retail

Laurens County Prepares for National Poll Worker Recruitment Day on August 1, 2024

  July 31, 2024

National Poll Worker Recruitment Day, established by the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC), is set to take place on August 1, 2024. This National Day of Action is designed to inspire civic engagement and encourage individuals to sign up as poll workers, ensuring the smooth and fair conduct of elections across the country. As the…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: government, on-the-move

Annual Holiday Fair and Kringle Holiday Village Unite at the Greenville Convention Center December 5-7

  July 31, 2024

GREENVILLE, SC (July 30, 2024) – Greenville Convention Center and Rotary Club of Greenville today announced the partnership of their respective signature events at a joint press conference. The Greenville Convention Center’s annual Holiday Fair and the Rotary Club’s annual Kringle Holiday Village, to be called Holiday Fair & Kringle Village, will unite to delight…

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Posted in: midlandsbiz, laurenscountybuzz   Category: on-the-move

Volunteers Needed to Help Local Abused and Neglected Children

  July 31, 2024

The Cass Elias McCarter Guardian ad Litem Program, a division of the South Carolina Department of Children’s Advocacy is offering FREE ONLINE TRAINING to those interested in becoming a volunteer Guardian ad Litem (GAL) in Laurens County.  Volunteers advocate on behalf of abused and neglected children who are involved in Family Court legal proceedings through…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: on-the-move

Presbyterian College Mourns the Loss of Music Professor Dr. Christian Elser

  July 31, 2024

As the Presbyterian College community grapples with the sudden loss of music professor Dr. Christian Elser, colleagues and friends remember not only a passionate voice performer with a booming baritone but a charismatic champion of the liberal arts with a caretaker’s heart for serving students.Dr. Albert “Christian” Elser III passed away on July 20 at…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: education, music, on-the-move

Laurens County Chorale Invites Singers for Fall Concert

  July 30, 2024

The Laurens County Chorale is extending an invitation to all singers to join their ranks for the upcoming fall concert. The performance will feature a blend of beloved classics and new pieces that celebrate the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons. Rehearsals for the fall concert will commence on August 26, running from 7 to 9 PM…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: entertainment, music, on-the-move

Main Street Laurens Presents South Carolina Summer Craft Beer Tasting this Friday

  July 30, 2024

Main Street Laurens (MSL), local sponsor Rotary Club of Laurens, and annual sponsor PRTC will present the South Carolina Summer Craft Beer Tasting, taking place on the Courthouse Square of Laurens, South Carolina on Friday, August 2, and featuring performance by Vinyl. MSL is proud to bring the South Carolina Summer Craft Beer Tasting to…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: entertainment, on-the-move

Support Roc’s Burgers: A Call to the Clinton Community

  July 29, 2024

Roc’s Burgers, known for its mouth-watering burgers and warm, friendly service, is facing challenging times. Owner Robert Knight recently posted a heartfelt message on Facebook, expressing his concern over the restaurant’s future due to a lack of local support. Despite the positive feedback and love from customers, the community’s continued patronage is crucial for the…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: headlines, on-the-move

Celebrate Tapestry’s 38th Anniversary with Exciting Sales and Giveaways!

  July 29, 2024

Mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate as Tapestry, the beloved boutique of Laurens County, gears up to commemorate its 38th anniversary with a weekend full of excitement, special sales, and giveaways. Tapestry has been a go-to destination for fashion enthusiasts in the area, and this milestone calls for a grand celebration. The anniversary…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: headlines, on-the-move, retail

GLEAMNS to Host Back to School Bash on August 1st

  July 29, 2024

GLEAMNS Human Resources Commission, Inc. invites families and community members to its Back to School Bash, taking place on August 1, 2024, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at all GLEAMNS Head Start centers, including: ● Abbeville Head Start Center ● Edgefield Head Start Center ● Greenwood Head Start Center ● Lexington Head Start Center…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: education, on-the-move

Getting Ready for School: Emphasizing School Bus Safety for a Safe Start

  July 29, 2024

As summer days grow shorter, students in Laurens County will soon be observing that timeless annual ritual: the first day of school. It’s a time when parents are busy getting their children ready for school, and students and teachers anticipate new beginnings and new challenges. Unfortunately, the beginning of school is also a time when…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: education, headlines, on-the-move

South Carolina Deer Hunters: Watch Your Mailbox for Deer Tags and New Reporting Requirements

  July 28, 2024

South Carolina deer hunters should be on the lookout as deer tags are set to arrive soon. Hunters with an annual or three-year hunting license and big game permit, combination license, or sportsman license, valid on August 15, will automatically receive a base set of deer tags, according to the South Carolina Department of Natural…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: headlines, on-the-move

American Legion Auxiliary Unit 25 Honors Members for Outstanding Contributions

  July 26, 2024

During the regular Auxiliary meeting at Blah-Blah Taco on July 24, 2024, Donna King, President of the American Legion Lakeland-Garrett Unit 25 Auxiliary, honored two distinguished members by awarding certificates in recognition of their exceptional contributions. Jeanette Sain, an esteemed Auxiliary Unit 25 Legionnaire, was celebrated for her outstanding community service and volunteer work across…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: non-profit, on-the-move, veterans

Famed author and academic Dr. Temple Grandin to speak at Presbyterian College’s 10th annual Charles Chadwell Special Education Institute  

  July 26, 2024

One of the country’s most prominent animal behaviorists and champion for autism rights will be the keynote speaker at Presbyterian College’s 10th annual Charles Chadwell Special Education Institute. Author and academic Dr. Temple Grandin will deliver her address, “The World Needs ALL Kinds of Minds” at 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 16, in Belk Auditorium, followed by…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: education, on-the-move

Laurens County Community Theatre Announces Auditions for “Snow White and the Prince”

  July 26, 2024

The Laurens County Community Theatre is excited to announce auditions for their upcoming production of “Snow White and the Prince,” the next show in their vibrant season lineup. Auditions are open to individuals aged 8 to adult. This production offers roles for all genders and ethnicities and auditions will be held on Monday, August 5th,…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: headlines, on-the-move, the-arts

Lander Holds Final Freshman Orientation

  July 26, 2024

With classes beginning for the fall semester on August 19, Lander University held its final Freshman Orientation July 23-24. Orientation is required for all new students to ease the transition into college life by acquainting students with all Lander has to offer academically, culturally, and socially. The incoming Bearcats had a full two-day agenda, including…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: education, on-the-move

Lander Cybersecurity Classes to be Offered Online

  July 26, 2024

The integration of cyber systems in our daily lives, businesses, and governments has created a significant demand for cyber expertise. Lander’s cybersecurity program prepares students for a career in this high demand field. The first group of Lander University students to earn a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity graduated on May 1, 2024. To make classes…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: education, on-the-move

Friends of the Laurens Library Now Accepting Books, CDs, and DVD Donations

  July 26, 2024

The Friends of the Laurens County Library are currently accepting donations of books, CDs, and DVDs at the Laurens Library. Community members are encouraged to be generous and help support library programs for people of all ages. If you have books that you no longer need, consider donating them to the library. The Friends of…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: non-profit, on-the-move, philanthropy

Vote Now: South Carolina Highway Patrol Competes in National Calendar Contest

  July 26, 2024

The SC Highway Patrol introduces an innovative vehicle combination to represent South Carolina in America’s Best Looking Cruiser Contest — a 2024 Ford Mustang and a 2023 Ford F-150! Held by the American Association of State Troopers (AAST), this annual contest allows state highway patrol agencies nationwide to compete for the privilege of showcasing their state patrol…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: law, on-the-move

Exciting Changes Ahead for Southern Twist and Trade

  July 24, 2024

Big changes are coming to Southern Twist and Trade! The store’s current owner, Christie Finley, has decided to sell, but loyal customers need not worry. Emily Abercrombie, who has been with the store for over four years, will take over as the new owner. Familiar faces, including the same staff and Christie Finley, will remain…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: headlines, on-the-move, retail

Building Dreams: Patrick Finds Success in PTC’s Building Construction Technology Program

  July 24, 2024

Kristy Patrick admits she isn’t what people think of as a typical building construction student, but that didn’t stop her from enrolling in Piedmont Technical College’s Building Construction Technology program. Her determination and “can-do” attitude propelled her to graduate with a 4.0 grade point average and to begin a new job a week after graduation.…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: education, on-the-move

The Loft Hosts Christmas in July with Greenwood Band Get Off My Lawn

  July 24, 2024

As The Loft continues to gain traction as a premier local music venue, this Saturday night they will host Greenwood’s own Get Off My Lawn. The Greenwood, SC band will perform at The Loft on July 27th at 6:00 PM for The Loft’s annual Christmas in July celebration. The event promises to be a festive…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: entertainment, music, on-the-move

Loose Threads Quilt Guild Continues to Comfort Laurens County Community

  July 24, 2024

Last week, the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) received another batch of handmade quilts from the dedicated members of the Loose Threads Quilt Guild. For more than four years, the guild has been steadfast in their commitment to supporting the community, and their recent contribution of comfort quilts is truly commendable. In 2023, the Loose…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: law, on-the-move

GLEAMNS  names Jennifer Abercrombie as the new Chief Operations Officer

  July 24, 2024

Jennifer Abercrombie is the former Executive Director of the Department of Teaching and Learning for Laurens County School District 55. She has served in other leadership roles including Principal, Assistant Principal, Early Childhood Coordinator, and Title 1 Facilitator. “I am honored to join GLEAMNS Human Resources Commission, Inc. as Chief Operations Officer and to contribute…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: education, on-the-move

Friday Night Cruisin’ on Main in Clinton

  July 23, 2024

The Laurens County Cruisers invite everyone to join them for the Friday Night Cruisin’ on Main in Clinton on July 26, 2024. The event will take place from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at their new location, 105 West Main Street, Clinton, SC 29325. This event is open to all car enthusiasts and community members.…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: entertainment, on-the-move

Boondocks Fish Camp & Smoke House in Gray Court is Hiring

  July 23, 2024

Boondocks Fish Camp & Smoke House, a popular eatery in Gray Court, SC, is expanding its team and looking for enthusiastic, dependable, and reliable individuals to join their ranks. This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone seeking employment in a dynamic and friendly environment. The restaurant, known for its delicious seafood and smoky barbecue, is…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: employment, on-the-move, restaurant

Laurens County Educator Kelsey Brown Selected for Prestigious National Teacher Leadership Program

  July 23, 2024

Twelve teacher leaders from across the country will join the inaugural class for the NIET Fellows Program. The National Institute for Excellence in Teaching is among the largest trainers of teacher leaders, with more than 35,000 teacher leaders trained to date. The new NIET Fellows Program selects teacher leaders for a dynamic one-year program to…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: education, headlines, on-the-move

American Legion Post 25 to Celebrate Grand Opening of Picnic Pavilion

  July 23, 2024

American Legion Post 25, chartered in Laurens in 1919, is marking a significant milestone with the grand opening of their new picnic pavilion. The event, set for 3:00 pm on Saturday, September 28th, invites the public to join in the celebration and enjoy a roast of a 300-pound pig. Post 25 has a storied history,…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: headlines, non-profit, on-the-move

Laurens County School District 55 Rolls Out New Cell Phone Policies for Students

  July 23, 2024

The Laurens County School District 55 (LCSD 55) Administration is being proactive with the implementation of school rules on the use of cell phones at schools, following the release of the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) Memorandum on Cell Phone Survey Results and Policy Development on June 27, 2024.  Data from the statewide SCDE…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: education, headlines, on-the-move

Laurens County Non-Profit Grant Application Process Opens for First Year

  July 23, 2024

Laurens County Council recently announced the opening of the Special Appropriation Grant application process for non-profit entities within the county. This is the first year of this new initiative, which opens financial support from the county budget to qualifying organizations that wish to apply. In previous years, the County Council supported only a select few…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: government, non-profit, on-the-move

Clinton High Senior Among Recipients of Joye Law Firm Scholarships

  July 23, 2024

Joye Law Firm, a leading South Carolina-based personal injury firm, is proud to announce the winners of their 2024 Joye Law Firm scholarship contest. Seven high school seniors were awarded a $2,000 scholarship to help with college expenses, and an additional seven teachers were selected for a $250 appreciation prize. The law firm founded this…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: education, on-the-move

Laurens County Chamber to Host Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies for Blessing Box Initiative

  July 23, 2024

The Leadership Laurens County (LLC) Class XXIV proudly announces the ribbon cutting ceremonies for their Blessing Box initiative.  Each LLC Class works together on a project chosen and collaborated by the classmates. The graduating class of 2024 developed and implemented a Laurens County Blessing Box initiative.    This project aims to address food and hygiene insecurities…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: chamber, on-the-move

Launch Into College Offers Intensive Courses for Incoming Freshmen

  July 22, 2024

Lander University has given almost 60 students the chance to knock out a few classes through an intensive five-week program meant to help with the transition from high school to college. Launch Into College has allowed students to take an English and a math class while living on campus during part of their summer break.…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: education, on-the-move

Daddy Had A Worm Farm

  July 22, 2024
Tom Poland

By Tom Poland   The towns sounded distant, not as miles go, but as memories. Hazlehurst, McRae, Baxley, Soperton, Alma, and Tifton. Tifton meant trouble. I was studying a map for a six-day trek into South Georgia in August. Near a place called Fargo, I will sleep two nights where a road dead-ends in wilderness…

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Posted in: lowcountrybizsc, midlandsbiz, upstatebizsc, laurenscountybuzz   Category: life, on-the-move, the-arts

New Commerce Park Stage Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Randomonium Live Performance

  July 22, 2024

The City of Fountain Inn is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its new Commerce Park Stage with a special ribbon cutting ceremony followed by a live performance by the high energy, interactive band, Randomonium. The event will take place on 7/26/24 at 6:00 p.m. in Commerce Park on Depot Street in historic Downtown…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: entertainment, on-the-move

Laurens Got Talent at “It’s Finally Friday” This Coming Weekend

  July 22, 2024

Main Street Laurens invites all aspiring singers to participate in the exciting “Laurens Got Talent” contest, hosted by Studio 55. Set to take place during It’s Finally Friday on July 26 from 7:00 to 9:00 PM, this event will highlight local talent. To register, simply send a Facebook message to Main Street Laurens. The first…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: entertainment, on-the-move

Shag Night Returns to The Lumberyard with Pat Patterson Spinning Tunes

  July 22, 2024

Get ready to slide into the rhythm because Shag Night is back by popular demand at The Lumberyard! Join other music and dance fans on July 27 from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM for an evening of smooth moves and groovy tunes as the one and only Pat Patterson is onsite to spin the beats…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: entertainment, on-the-move

Overstock Outlet Expands to Support Local Vendors in Clinton

  July 22, 2024

Overstock Outlet in Clinton is expanding to provide booth spaces for local vendors. This new initiative aims to support artisans, crafters, and bakers by offering them a platform to showcase and sell their products. The store is accepting applications for two types of vendor spaces: 4×6 shelf spaces and 5×11 floor spaces. This opportunity is…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: on-the-move, retail

Laurens County Community to Walk with Student Doctors

  July 22, 2024

The community of Laurens County has a unique opportunity to combine health and education this Saturday, July 27, 2024, at 10 AM. Students from VCOM, the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Spartanburg, are hosting a “Walk with the Student Docs” event at The Ridge, located at 301 Exchange Road, Laurens, SC. This event…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: education, health-care, on-the-move

The Laurens Library Goes Wild with Wildlife Geeks of Greenville!

  July 22, 2024

The Laurens Library is set to host an exciting and educational event on July 25th, as the Wildlife Geeks of Greenville bring their renowned “Conservation Meets the Classroom” program to 1017 W. Main Street. Chuck Alberding, famously known as the Prairie Dog Whisperer, will captivate audiences with his unique animals during two shows scheduled for…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: education, entertainment, on-the-move

New Hours for Roc’s Burgers: Catering to the Community

  July 21, 2024

Roc’s Burgers, a local favorite in Clinton (28098 Hwy 76), recently announced a change in their operating hours to better serve customers. After listening to feedback from patrons, particularly those who work until 5:00 or 6:00 PM, the restaurant has decided to adjust its hours accordingly. Starting Monday, July 22nd, Roc’s Burgers will operate under…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: on-the-move, restaurant