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Anderson Independent Mail

Tropical Storm Helene tore through Upstate South Carolina, causing widespread destruction, including fallen trees, downed power lines, flooding, road closures, power outages for thousands of residents, and the closure of businesses and schools.

Emergency and public work crews from Anderson County and crews sent from Horry County in the Pee Dee have tirelessly cleared debris and restored power to affected areas for the past week.

The National Guard has also assisted in the recovery effort to clear as many fallen trees and downed power lines as possible. According to the Anderson County Emergency Team, the National Guard brought in resources, including chainsaws, debris and brush crews, and medical personnel.

Emergency crews encountered numerous challenges, such as working at night and navigating through flooded waters and debris-filled roadways, fallen trees, and hazardous power poles in affected areas.

Anderson County roads, bridges

The Anderson County Emergency Team first reported 600 roadway closures across the county due to Hurricane Helene's impact, Remien said. Many of these roadways have now been cleared, allowing smoother transportation to access essential services.

Power crews are making tremendous progress, as about 1% of Anderson County remains without power, Remien said. Roads and Bridges department has also successfully reopened Harbin Road, and at least five roads remain closed long term.

Here is a list of the following roads that were closed due to washouts and will be closed in the foreseeable future.

County crews continue to work with the South Carolina and Air National Guards to clear roadways, pick up debris, and restore power.

Powdersville residents left without power for days

Powdersville and the City of Belton were among the hardest-hit areas in Anderson County, Remien said. Residents in these areas faced prolonged power outages, which left many homes without electricity for days, and debris-filled roadways limited travel.

On Tuesday, October 1, Anderson native David Yurkins spent the day working on a tractor in Powdersville, cleaning up brush from fallen and damaged trees. "I've seen a lot of trees down. It almost looks like a war zone with all the trees down," he said.

"Where I live in Powdersville, I counted half a dozen trees between our house, I-85 and I-81," he said.

Yurkins said the power was restored in some areas, relieving some residents, but many still do not. He noted that power crews have been working tirelessly to address these issues, making steady progress as they moved from one neighborhood to another.

Brianna Dehn lives in the Belmont Plantation neighborhood in Powdersville.

"My family was without power for four days," Dehn said. "Luckily, we had a generator and could keep the lights and fridge running. Our neighborhood also experienced damage from the tropical storm. Trees were down, and roads were blocked, which limited everyone's travel."

Dehn said the community came together to clean up the neighborhood and held a cookout to feed everyone food that would have gone bad due to the power outage.

Meghan and Trey Coomes organized the community cookout through a group chat.

"My family lost power for three days, and we lost everything in our fridge," Meghan said. "The community cookout with food that was about to go bad was a great idea.

"We also gathered supplies and donations and took them to the Picken County Community Center for North Carolina hurricane victims."

She said friends Erica and Ryan Rutledge also assisted.

Dehn and Meghan expressed how everyone worked together to help each other during a difficult time.

The community's support has been essential in the recovery efforts to overcome the challenges brought on by the tropical storm. Residents and neighbors have come together to share resources such as generators, clean up debris and fallen trees, and assist those in need, particularly the elderly who require power for medical equipment like oxygen.

One of their elderly neighbors, who is oxygen-dependent, didn't have power and couldn't travel for medical services.

They mentioned how they used generators to power her oxygen unit to ensure her safety during the outage.

Dan Bracken, Broker in Charge of Bracken Real Estate, and his wife purchased seven generators, which they lent to various residents over the week to help those without power.

Bracken emphasized the importance of community support during these difficult times. "I encourage everyone to contribute in any way they can, whether it's through financial assistance, donating supplies, or participating in clean-up efforts," he said.

Lynn Conlin, a retired respiratory therapist and Powdersville resident who is oxygen-dependent, expressed her gratitude. "I am a bad asthmatic," Conlin said. "Mr. Bracken supplied me and others with generators, which was a lifesaver during the power outage."

Oxygen-dependent patients are encouraged to call 864-276-8620 for help. This number connects them to local resources and volunteers who can provide necessary support and equipment during power outages.

Backen mentioned that he and his wife also plan to send generators and essential items to North Carolina, where the storm caused severe damage.

Anderson native Jeffrey Sexton of Liberty took it upon himself to help others by cutting fallen trees, clearing roads or debris, and aiding people trapped in homes.

Sexton said he got the idea from Grindstone Ministries, which assists in relief efforts during natural disasters. Inspired by their work, he felt compelled to do the same in his community.

"I wanted to contribute in any way I could," he added. "I don't have the money or time they do, but lending a hand to my neighbors and offering my skills felt like the right thing to do."

City of Belton Hurricane Helene recovery efforts

Like many other parts of Anderson County, the City of Belton faced numerous challenges, such as downed trees, flooding, and widespread power outages.

"The City of Belton is continuing to work diligently to clean up from the tropical storm that hit us early Friday morning on September 27," Mayor Eleanor Dorn said in a statement.

"Most of our roads are open," she said. "Duke Energy will have to clear the impassable roads. The City of Belton cannot cut or move trees that touch a power line."

Belton's water system is operating normally and running at full capacity.

Senior construction manager Marcus Hubbard has been assisting crews in rebuilding the grid in Belton.

In Upstate South Carolina alone, approximately 6,000 poles and 30,000 pole-to-pole spans of primary wire have been damaged.

Restoration efforts in South Carolina have benefited from a crucial collaboration with the SCDOT, as Duke Energy crews have made significant progress in clearing roads of storm debris and other obstacles.

Mayor Eleanor Dorn expressed how community members have pitched in to clear streets, distribute bottled water, and provide food and other essential services.

"Seeing many students volunteering for their community was impressive," Dorn said. "This type of willingness to roll up their sleeves and help instead of complaining is a testament to the strength and character of our citizens."

On Saturday, October 5, the South Carolina National Guard and county crews went door to door in the Belton and Honea Path communities to distribute water and ice to those without power.

They are transitioning to the Iva and Starr areas next. For those in need, an ice station is open in downtown Belton in front of 224 City Square and at the Iva Farmers Market.

"Grocery stores and food retail locations have not fully reopened, so we aim to ensure that food reaches the community as well as bottled water and ice to keep any medications and all chilled," Anderson County's administrator, Rusty Burns said.

"We're working to get more supplies in and out to that community," he said.

Travis Rose covers Anderson County for the Independent Mail. Reach him via email at trose@gannett.com.

Voters in Anderson County headed to the polls today for the general election.

The Board of Education for Anderson School District had five contested races on this year's ballot.

Here is the list of candidates in the upcoming Anderson School District Board of Education general election.

Anderson School District One, Area Three

Moochie Merritt and John JC Neel are competing in the general election for Anderson School District One, area three.

As of 12 a.m. and with 100 percent of the vote, John JC Neel leads with 51.25% of the votes, while Moochie Merritt had 48.47% of the votes.

Moochie Merritt graduated from Palmetto High School in 1997. Upon graduation, he received a scholarship to play football at Wofford College. He majored in Business Economics and Government and received his BA in 2002. He played a year of arena football with the Carolina Rhinos before attending Sherman College, where he earned his chiropractic (DC) degree in 2006.

Merritt began his chiropractic practice in August 2007 and has continued in that role ever since.

According to John JC Neel's campaign page, he is running to promote budget transparency in Anderson District 1 and ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and responsibly.

Anderson School District Three, Area Two

Mike Callahan is challenging incumbent Tripp Bouknight in the general election for Anderson School District 3, area Two.

As of 12 a.m and with 100% of the vote., Tripp Bouknight had increased his lead, accounting for 72.47% of the votes, while Mike Callahan had 27.20%.

Anderson School District Five, at-large seat

Kristy Harrell Huskey, Ernest E. Mackins, and Bill Thompson are running against incumbent Andy Patrick in the general election for the at-large seat on the Anderson School District Five school board.

As of 12 a.m. and with 100% of the vote, Bill Thompson led with 34.92% of the total, Andy Patrick 33.35%, Kristy Harrell Huskey had 23.03% and Ernest E. Mackins received 8.09%.

Anderson School District Five Area One

In the general election, Troy L. Haguewood is running against Julie Usherwood for seat one on the Anderson School District 5 school board, area one.

As of 12:04 a.m. and with 100% of the vote, Troy L. Haguewood has extended his lead with 69.91% of the total votes cast. Julie Usherwood is in second place with 34.75%

Anderson School District Five, seat three

In the general election, Eddie D. Mattison is running against incumbent Tommy Price for seat three on the Anderson School District 5 school board.

As of midnight and with 100 percent of the vote, Tommy Price is leading with 70.03% of votes. Eddie D. Mattison's vote count increased to 29.29%.

Anderson School District Five, seat seven

Tripp Dukes and John P. Griffith are competing in the general election for seat seven on the Anderson School District 5 school board.

As of 12:06 a.m. and with 100 percent of the vote, Tripp Dukes has retained his lead with 69.74% of the total votes cast. John P. Griffith received 29.99% of the votes.

The following candidates ran unopposed.

Anderson County School Trustees D2, area 1 -- Mike Wilson

Anderson County School Trustees D1, area 6 -- Brenda Sims Ellison

Anderson County School Trustees D3, area 3 -- Justin Burdette

Anderson County School Trustees D4, area 1 -- Waylon H. Priester

Anderson County School Trustees D4, area 3 -- Charles V. Privette III

Anderson County School Trustees D5, area 4 -- Paul V Zugg

Anderson County School Trustees D2, area 2 -- Mason Gary

Anderson County School Trustees D2, area 5 -- Phillip S. Ashley

Anderson County School Trustees D2, area 6 -- Dupre Keys

Anderson Board of Education D2 -- Michael S. Upton

Anderson Board of Education D7 -- W. Mark Williamson

Anderson Board of Education D8 -- Vaughn Parfitt

Anderson Board of Education D9 -- David Blanding

Travis Rose covers Anderson County for the Independent Mail. Reach him via email at trose@gannett.com.

Peachtree Entertainment, the promoter of the Rock the Country Music Festival, has confirmed that Anderson County will again be a key stop on the 2025 tour.

On July 25-26, Anderson County will be the final tour stop making it the 10th show in the lineup.

The full lineup and ticket details have not yet been announced. Fans can sign up for concert information at www.rockthecountry.com.

This marks the second consecutive year for the festivities to the Upstate. In July, the festival drew thousands to the Anderson Sports and Entertainment Center, with performances from top country music artists such as Jason Aldean and Miranda Lambert.

"We’re very excited to have Rock the Country return to Anderson County in 2025," said Neil Paul, Visit Anderson executive director. "Our community experienced a significant economic impact from hosting Rock the Country this year, and we believe that another opportunity will bring great benefits. Anderson County has consistently set the standard for hospitality in our region, which benefits our local businesses, hospitality partners, and residents."

Who promotes Rock the Country Music Festival?

Peachtree Entertainment is the promoter for Rock the Country Music Festival. The company is a nationally recognized concert promoter with over 15 years of experience in the music industry.

The company has helped to launch the careers of artists such as Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Luke Bryan, and Gavin Adcock.

Peachtree Entertainment is a joint venture with LiveCo, a private equity-backed entertainment company that produces over 3,000 live shows annually across various genres.

Music festival boosts economy and culture

Business owners and leaders applaud the return of the music festival.

"Whenever we host a major event like Kid Rock and Friends, it's like scoring a game-winning Hail Mary touchdown for the local economy, said Trey Boggs, owner of Palmetto Distillery. "The influx of visitors benefits local businesses, including hotels and restaurants, significantly boosting the community's revenue."

Cindy Suttles, vice president of sales, marketing and revenue management at Paragon Hotel Company, anticipates increased turnout next year as the festival grows in popularity.

“Last year's event was a remarkable success, and it's no surprise that it quickly became one of our fastest hotel sellouts, said Suttles. "As a result, all eight of our nearby locations in Anderson, Easley, Clemson, and Piedmont were fully booked in record time. We look forward to welcoming even more guests in 2025."

Steve Kay, owner of the Bleckley Inn, said his boutique hotel was fully booked for the festival in July. Visitors provided "a considerable boost to the hospitality industry," he added.

The festival's economic impact was historic for Anderson County, said Rusty Burns, Anderson County town administrator. "We are thrilled to welcome back the Rock the Country Festival. This past year was explosive for our local businesses...We believe the festival will be an even greater attraction this time around, and we will do everything possible to ensure all local businesses will benefit."

Travis Rose covers Anderson County for the Independent Mail. Reach him via email at trose@gannett.com.

Published: Oct. 2, 2024 at 8:23 PM PDT|

PELZER, S.C. (FOX Carolina) - Mud and sand are major problems for neighbors along the Saluda River, after Hurricane Helene brought catastrophic flooding throughout the Southeast, including one small city near the Anderson-Greenville County line.

While some people are clearing branches and downed trees, neighbors in Pelzer are scooping up sand.

“So this sandy area here-it is normally grass, but that’s just all the sand that’s washed up from the river,” Laura Rainey said while pointing to a large mound of sand in her neighborhood.

Rainey is the chairwoman of the Pelzer Planning Commission. She said after Hurricane Helene, the Saluda River got so high, it completely submerged a wooden shack near the bank.

Rainey motioned toward a manhole more than 20 feet from the river. “By about Saturday it started getting to this manhole here,” she said. “I haven’t seen it up this high since 2004.″

The Lower Mill Hill Boat Ramp, which is typically all asphalt, now looks more like a sandy beach. In some places, the sand is piled about 2.5 feet about the asphalt.

The Lower Mill sits just north of the Pelzer Dam, which is classified as “high” for potential hazards by the South Carolina Dept. of Environmental Services (DES).

According to DES, as of Tuesday, there have been no reports of major issues at dams in the state since Helene.

However, they did say in a statement:

While the concerns with overtopping of dams have greatly diminished, debris accumulations in spillways are a concern both now and in weeks to come as runoff from rainfall washes limbs and debris into reservoirs.

South Carolina Dept. of Environmental Services

In the meantime, Rainey said the community is working to make sure everyone is well-taken care of during this prolonged power outage.

“We’re a close-knit neighborhood. Everyone looks out for each other. Just small-town good neighbors, and we’re getting through.”

DES said they are remaining in contact with dam owners, reminding them to keep spillways clear of debris to prevent more flooding.

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