Fifty years ago Tri-County Technical College made South Carolina history by becoming the first multi-county technical institute in the State. The college kicked off its golden anniversary celebration with a community reception January 26 on the Pendleton Campus. During the program, leaders from the three-county area talked about Tri-County’s important role in the community. Pictured from left are Clemson University President James F. Barker; George B. Patrick, III, deputy secretary of the South Carolina Department of Commerce; Senator Larry Martin, chair of the Pickens County Legislative Delegation; Senator Thomas Alexander, chair of the Oconee County Legislative Delegation; Rep. Mike Gambrell, chair of the Anderson County Legislative Delegation; and Tri-County Technical College President Ronnie L. Booth. Read more about the celebration on page 2B.