The Manning Times

01/04/2026

Just a quick reminder for CCSD families:

🗓 Monday is an in-service day for teachers
🗓 Students return to class on Tuesday

We hope everyone enjoyed their break and had a happy holiday season!

01/01/2026

🥇 Our Top Story of the Year

⚖️ No. 1 – Judge vacates convictions, Pearson walks free after 15 years

After spending 15 years in prison for a crime he maintained he did not commit, Michael Pearson walked free — a moment that forced our community to confront hard questions about justice, innocence, and the human cost of wrongful convictions.

This story mattered because it wasn’t just about the past. It was about accountability, reform, and the lives forever changed by the system. It was one of the most powerful moments we covered all year — and one we won’t forget.

Thank you for reading, sharing, and supporting local journalism. From all of us at The Manning Times, we wish you a healthy, hopeful New Year.

🔗 Read the story:

Fifteen years after he was convicted of a 2010 robbery and assault in Clarendon County, a crime he has always denied, Michael Pearson listened as Circuit Judge Robert E. Hood vacated his convictions …

12/31/2025

📍 New location, same local commitment

High Tech Heating & Air has officially opened its new headquarters at the corner of South Mill Street and Gibbons Street in Manning – a major step forward for the growing, locally owned HVAC company.

Owner Michael “Mike” Miller shares how the move supports the company’s expanding commercial work while keeping Clarendon County customers a priority.

👉 Story and photos by Melissa Foust-McCoy: https://manninglive.com/stories/high-tech-heating-air-opens-new-headquarters-expands-commercial-reach,168523

12/31/2025

⚠️ SCAM ALERT – PLEASE READ & SHARE ⚠️

Local resident Pat Goodwin has issued a warning after learning that someone is allegedly going door to door using his name and the name of Pine Grove Methodist Church of Turbeville to sell products.

According to Goodwin, the individual identifies himself as Gary Reid and claims to be from Moncks Corner. Goodwin states this person is NOT associated with him or Pine Grove Methodist Church in any way, and that any claim of endorsement or affiliation is false.

Residents are urged to use caution, do not purchase products based on these claims, and do not share personal or financial information.

If this individual comes to your home and you feel unsafe, contact law enforcement immediately.

Please help protect others by sharing this post.

12/31/2025

⏳ Top Stories Countdown: No. 2

🚰 Water quality and billing errors top concerns at Summerton town hall

This story struck a nerve because it involved something basic: access to safe, reliable water. Residents came forward with documentation, personal stories, and serious health concerns — demanding answers and accountability.

It wasn’t just a meeting recap; it was a record of people speaking up when systems failed them. The story continues to shape conversations about infrastructure, oversight, and trust.

🔗 Read the story:

Residents packed into a town hall meeting July 29 to voice mounting frustration over persistent water and sewer issues in Summerton, from discolored water and sewage backups to billing discrepancies …

12/31/2025

🎆 Happy New Year’s Eve! We’re down to our Top 3 Stories of the Year 🎆

⚾ No. 3 – State champs! Lady Wolverines deliver big win for Turbeville

This championship meant more than a trophy. It represented perseverance, teamwork, and pride — not just for East Clarendon High School, but for an entire town that showed up, cheered loud, and believed.

In a year full of heavy news, this story reminded us how sports can unite a community and create moments of pure joy.

🔗 Read the story:

After a long season marked by hard work, weather delays, and a roller coaster of travel plans, the East Clarendon High School softball team capped off their campaign with a 5-3 victory over Saluda on …

12/31/2025

⏳ Top Stories Countdown: Nos. 5 & 4

These stories shaped major conversations about governance, accountability, and the future of Clarendon County.

📚 No. 5 – Procedural misstep delays Clarendon County School Board budget vote
This story mattered because process matters. It highlighted how technical missteps can have real consequences for teachers, staff, and students — and reinforced the importance of transparency and trust in public meetings.

🏭 No. 4 – Homanit breaks ground on $250 million manufacturing facility
One of the biggest economic development announcements in decades, this project promises jobs, growth, and long-term impact for Clarendon County. It was a defining moment for the local economy and workforce.

🔗 Read No. 5: https://manninglive.com/stories/confusion-procedural-misstep-delays-clarendon-county-school-board-budget-vote,143150
🔗 Read No. 4: https://manninglive.com/stories/homanit-breaks-ground-on-250-million-manufacturing-facility,139474

Homanit, a Germany-based manufacturer of wood-based materials, officially broke ground Wednesday, June 4, on its first U.S. manufacturing facility, a $250 million investment set to bring 300 jobs to …

12/30/2025

Main Street Manning is hosting a FREE, hands-on photography workshop on January 12, 2026, aimed at building a regional network of photographers to strengthen local storytelling, marketing, and community communications.

No experience needed — your phone works just fine. The workshop will cover simple ways to improve your photos, real-world examples for social media and newsletters, and hands-on practice with professional feedback.

City staff, nonprofits, chambers, students, small businesses, and community leaders are all encouraged to attend. Multiple representatives per organization are welcome.

📖 Read the full story and get details here: https://manninglive.com/stories/manning-invites-photographers-creatives-community-leaders-to-free-photography-workshop,168651

🆓 Space is limited, so registration is encouraged.

12/30/2025

🎉 Ring in the New Year early! 🎉

Families are invited to celebrate Noon Year’s Eve at the Harvin Clarendon County Library tomorrow, Dec. 31, from 11 a.m. to noon. The free, family-friendly event features crafts, wishes for the new year and a countdown to NOON — all the fun of midnight without the late bedtime.

Perfect for little ones and anyone who prefers daytime celebrations. No registration required.

📖 Read more about the event here: https://manninglive.com/stories/noon-year-eve-daytime-celebration-planned-at-harvin-clarendon-library,168522

12/30/2025

McLeod Health to implement temporary visitation restrictions amid flu surge

12/30/2025

⏳ Top Stories Countdown: Nos. 7 & 6

These two stories captured very different moments — but both underscored the importance of transparency, awareness, and community responsibility.

🏗️ No. 7 – “Come in! We’re open!”
As downtown Manning faced construction challenges, this story reminded readers that small businesses need support — especially during disruption. It highlighted resilience, cooperation, and the people determined to keep Main Street moving.

🕊️ No. 6 – Calhoun County teen charged in fatal shooting of Clarendon Hall alumnus
This was one of the year’s most heartbreaking stories. It brought attention to the devastating consequences of substance misuse, youth violence, and loss — and honored the life of a young man deeply loved by his school and community.

🔗 Read No. 7: https://manninglive.com/stories/come-in-were-open,157445
🔗 Read No. 6 on manninglive.com

Main Street Manning remains very much open for business, even as crews work to replace sewer lines along Brooks and Boyce Streets. City officials began the latest phase of construction Oct. 7, …

12/30/2025

UPDATE ON ARI 💙

We’re saddened to share an update from Ari’s family.

After returning to Clarendon County to continue the search with additional drone support, Ari was found after being struck by a vehicle. His family was able to take him home today and is grieving alongside his sister.

The family asked us to pass along their heartfelt thanks to everyone who shared the story, offered tips, and kept Ari in their thoughts.

Our hearts are with them during this difficult time. Thank you, Clarendon County, for showing compassion and care.

A family traveling through Clarendon County is asking for the community’s help to find their dog after a crash on I-95 on Dec. 27.

Ari, a 7-year-old male dog, went missing near A Second Chance Animal Shelter in Manning after the family was taken to the hospital. His owners have since returned to Florida to recover, but local deputies and shelter staff continue search efforts.

If you’ve seen Ari or have any information that could help reunite him with his family, please contact local authorities or the Clarendon County Animal Shelter.

Read the full story here: https://manninglive.com/stories/family-seeks-help-finding-dog-missing-after-i-95-crash,168408

Please share to help bring Ari home. 💙