Local News

Belding awarded key to the city

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Former senator John Land and Marie Land hosted a sur- prise reception in honor of the accomplishments made by John Belding and Lee Beld- ing. At the reception, friends of the Beldings gave speeches about how the Beldings have truly impacted their lives for the better. John made a sig- nificant contribution to the Second Chance Animal Shel- ter in Manning, South Caro- lina. He inspired and moti- vated workers at the shelter, and constantly reminded them of how proud he was of them and the shelter’s success. He influenced many people in Clarendon County.

Jason Montgomery, the president of the chamber of commerce, brought board members to the reception and gave a heartfelt farewell and appreciation to John Belding.

“John was one of those guys we never actually had to call on, he was always just there,” said Montgomery.

Habitat for Humanity as- sists people in repairing and improving their own homes and communities. Habitat for Humanity Disaster Response collaborates with local communities to address a wide range of housing needs following natural disasters. The advocacy work of Habitat for Humanity raises awareness and support for decent and affordable housing all over the world. John played a huge role with the Habitat for Humanity in Manning, SC.

Marie Land shared her love and gratitude for the suc- cess John Belding had with the Habitat for Humanity.

“I can’t say enough about what you did and the lives you’ve changed for families who’ve had a hand up for help,” said Marie Land.

Habitat for Humanity has built 26 homes in Clarendon County, the majority of which John Belding played a signif- icant role in. John has helped with nearly all of the fundrais- ers for Habitat for Humanity.

“It was never self-serv- ing, it was selfless. You didn’t do it for yourself, you did it for others, “said Marie Land.

Ericka Floyd shared a per- sonal story with her experience through Habitat for Humani- ty and how much John Belding contributed to her house. Floyd was Clarendon County’s 19th habit house. John helped remod- el and played a significant role in helping Floyd design her house.

“He was there from the beginning,” said Floyd. “There is probably so much that you have done that we don’t know of. On behalf of Clarendon Coun- ty, I thank you for all of those things that we don’t really know that you

have done, “said Marie Land. Reverend Ken Phillips, a strong leader of Claren- don County, shared his grati- tude and love to the Beldings. “Both Lee and John are hands-on leaders,” said Reverend Ken Phillips. Lee has influenced and served children’s youth minis- tries. Lee has also led an out- reach ministry in the community where she is guided by her faith. “Thank you Lee Belding, for sharing your energy, ex- citement, devotion and love for others. We will miss you,” said Reverend Ken Phillips. “Some leaders have intivated ideas. John Belding has practical solutions that move from paper to practice; he has been an inte- gral part of our church leader- ship,” said Reverend Ken Phillips. John has always wanted to make a difference, he has currently done that in Clarendon County. “You leave us with many memories of lives made easier because of your serving heart, “said Reverend Ken Phillips. As the Beldings prepared for their next journey moving to Florida, Mayor Julia Nelson gave them a heartfelt message. “On behalf of the city of Man- ning, I want you to always remem- ber Manning because you’re very much a part of our matchless beau- ty and hospitality. Wherever you go and because of all of the work the two of you have done together, we want to present you with a key to our city, “said Mayor Nelson. This is the highest honor any- one can receive. Mayor Nelson was extremely grateful for the work the Beldings have done within Clarendon county and agrees this was a well deserved gift.