4/12/07

Ruritan Club brings good cheer to local farmers
By Brian Jarvis

ERIC GOOLD/Manning Times

According to agricultural commissioner Hugh Weathers, the future is bright for Clarendon County. At right is Donald Coker.

Farmers are still the driving force of both the county and the country, according to South Carolina Agricultural Commissioner Hugh Weathers.

During Thursday’s monthly meeting of the Turbeville Ruritan Club (TRC) aimed to honor farmers and keep an eye on the road ahead, Weathers noted that agriculture accounts for 17 percent of the state economy and netted $125 million last year.

“I think the future is bright for agriculture. If I didn’t, I wouldn’t have campaigned last year to keep my job,” Weathers said. “But for too long, the agriculture industry has operated below the radar because we’re so scattered, and we need to bring to the average citizen what the industry means to the state. The question is, how can farmers get more value for their product in Clarendon County?”

Despite the fact that independent farmers have steadily shrunk in numbers, Weathers encouraged those remaining to take advantage of alternative energies – already 20 percent of the market share given the rising demand for corn-based ethanol – as well as potential legislation to decrease carbon emissions that would raise the value of environmentally-safe farming practices.

“What we have in place right now is strictly voluntary, but I do believe farming values could double if legislation passes,” said Weathers. “It could really change everything.”

Founded in 1951 with several charter members still serving, the Turbeville Ruritan’s mission is to provide community service for the betterment of the rural community. Previous efforts have included organizing Little League summer baseball and raising nearly $2,000 for the Salvation Army by ringing Christmas bells.

“We were all farmers in 1930, and look at the changes in the farming industry we’ve seen in our lifetime,” said Vice President Ike Gibbons. “The whole purpose tonight is to recognize our farmers. We’re aware of you and the job you’re doing.”

All of the farmers present, or about half of the room, were asked to stand and be recognized for their achievements, which included winning the Palmetto Corn Contest and the Swisher Sweets Sunbelt Farmer of the Year.

“Our club does a lot in the community and we need people who are willing to work,” said President Donald Coker.

The Turbeville Ruritan Club meets once a month at varying locations. For more information contact Larry Coker at 843-659-4661 or Ike Gibbons at 843-659-2450.