Top Stories of 2021 in Laurens County

2021 is now in the rear-view mirror but it’s worth taking a moment to reflect on some of the good things that happened in Laurens County last year (or at least most significant).  Here’s the summary from the Laurens County Buzz, and in no particular order.

And here are the top stories for 2021:

PC’s Football Coach – One and Done

It was a great concept or at least one that drew much interest. The hiring of Coach Kelley, the coach who wouldn’t punt, drew much interest. But the season was not as many had hoped and after one season Coach Kelley is moving on.  Here is the story.

Rich History of Tennis – Waldron Family Named South Carolina Tennis Family of the Year

Anyone who knows the Waldron family of Clinton knows that they embody all that tennis represents. A sport, like tennis, can be a lifelong activity and promoting sportsmanship and character is at the heart of the Waldron family.  In 2021 Chuck Waldron and family were honored for their contribution to the sport of tennis.  Laurens County should be proud. Click HERE for the full story.

PC Inauguration of Dr. Matthew vandenBerg

The inauguration of a new college president brings with it an opportunity for redefined direction and renewed spirit.  The inauguration of Dr. Matthew vandenBerg as the 19^th president of Presbyterian College provided an infusion of both.  The future is bright for Presbyterian College and you can read all about it HERE.

Clinton High School Teachers Completes Boston Marathon

It this story doesn’t seem like a big deal, perhaps you’re not a runner. And for Laura Fox this was not the first time but the second time she ran the Boston Marathon. The first time was in 2013 when the bombing occurred. Read the full story HERE.

Deteriorating Conditions of Mausoleum Brought to Light and Repairs Underway

After much concern was raised with lack of action or satisfactory response, Representative Stewart Jones got involved and while there has been progress the restoration of the mausoleum is far from complete.  Stay tuned.

Higgs Takes Role as Laurens County Administrator

After Jon Caime was relieved from his position as County Administrator the search for his replacement began. One didn’t have to look far to see that the Thomas Higgs, then the City Manager for Clinton, would be a great fit.  You can read the full story HERE.

CEDC Closes on 75 Acres for Housing Development

In August 2021 Clinton Economic Development Corporation closed on the sale of 75 acres that will be developed for much needed housing.  The property known as Clinton Park Corp Center 3, is accessed by Robert M. Vance Road (accessed via Springdale Drive) and is strategically located between three schools, Eastside Elementary School, Clinton Middle School and Clinton High. Read the full story HERE.

Malouf Companies establishing operations in Laurens County – $47.2 million investment will create 240 new jobs

Announced in July 2021 and located at 101 Michelin Drive in Laurens, Malouf’s new facility will increase the company’s warehousing capabilities and enhance distribution capacity to meet growing demand. Read the full story HERE.

Laurens County Residents Unite to Fight Permitting of Wastewater Evaporation Facility

As local residents were gearing up to fight the permit for a hauled wastewater receiving and evaporation facility on Highway 56 North, it was announced that the application was being pulled from consideration. The withdrawal happened about one week after residents got to work to oppose the facility.  Read more about how it happened HERE.

The Loss of a Gentle Giant – George Cornelson IV

On July 8, 2021, Laurens County lost a gentle giant. George Cornelson IV was large in stature and even larger in his love for his family and community. He lived out the saying, actions speak louder than words, serving as a role model for others. Click HERE to read more about his life and commitment to making a difference in Laurens County.

In One Tragic Loss Other Lives were Saved

When firefighter Nathanial “Hunter” Sipes passed away on June 27^th his family friends and the community mourned.  But in his loss there was a gift, the gift of life. Ciick HERE to read the story of his selfless act of giving and the support shown by fellow firefighters to honor him.

Say NO to Litter

No one likes to see litter in yards or on the side of the road.  Sheriff Don Reynolds has gone to great lengths to combat the issue of litter in Laurens County. In June 2021 Amanda Munyan, President and CEO of the Laurens County Chamber, announced the “Keep Laurens County Beautiful Campaign.” Click HERE to learn more about it.

Food Lion for the Save

As the shelves of the BI-LO store in Clinton were going bare weeks before the closing of the store in March of 2021, the announcement was made that Food Lion acquired the location and would retool the store to service the Clinton community. HERE is the story.

Retail, Services and More…

One alone might not be a story but here is a list of some of the new retail and services that opened or announced they are coming to Laurens County in 2022.  Things are changing and for the better.

Here’s a list of the new or coming businesses and a link to the stories:

• Steakhouse Coming to Downtown Laurens
• Overstock Outlet in Clinton
• Southern Trade Outfitters in Laurens
• Basket Case Custom Gifts
• Taproom Coming to Clinton Spring 2022
• Coffee Roost Relocates and Expands on the Square in Laurens
• Palmetto Brothers Dispensary brings life to Downtown Laurens
• QT Opens in Clinton
• 864 Realty LLC
• CrossFit864 Relocates and Expands
• Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices C. Dan Joyner, Realtors Opens Office in Clinton