Dram Shop Injury Attorney in Liberty, SC

Nine years ago, Liberty Middle School in Pickens County had so many kids held back year after year that some of them had started driving to school.

Then Lisa Cassidy was hired as principal.

Liberty was, she recalls, “a hot mess.”

“We had some of the lowest test scores and the lowest attendance rates in the district. On our state report cards we were ‘average,’ but very close to becoming ‘below average.’”

And this past year? “We made ‘excellent,’” Cassidy says.

How’d she work that miracle? It was child’s play — literally.

Cassidy had been a teacher, assistant principal and administrator. When she stepped into Liberty Middle, a school that serves a mostly poor, white, rural population, she had one goal: “Making the school a place that students wanted to be.”

“We know that they don't come to school to learn,” she says. “I mean, that's not why they're showing up, right? We get to teach them while they're here, but they're not showing up to get the math and ELA standards.”

They’re showing up for each other. For friendship, and a feeling of belonging.

So the first thing Cassidy did was end the school’s silent lunches. “I had silent lunches as a child, and that is miserable,” she says.

Then she instituted recess.

The middle school schedule is dictated by the district, so she couldn’t replace class time. But she told the kids: You have half an hour for lunch. Eat fast, and the rest can be for play.

“The kids absolutely love it,” Cassidy says. One time she asked the 6th graders what they were doing, “And they said, ‘Oh, we’re pretending to have a wedding.’ It made my heart so happy.” Such a sophisticated scene. “And meanwhile there might be another group with a traffic cone, and they’re trying to flip to see if it can land on their head.”

To Cassidy, it was all good. “If nobody’s getting harmed, just stand back and let them do what they need to do.”

To expand the students’ options even more, she flooded the cafeteria with games: Uno. Chess. Connect 4. Scrabble. Soon Cassidy started opening the library and a maker space during recess too.

Still, she knew her students needed more than just half an hour of freedom. So, last year, she started opening the school an hour early for hang out and play time.

Now every day starting at 7:30 the cafeteria is full of kids eating breakfast, chatting with friends — and playing those board games. No technology is allowed. The goal is real-life interacting.

Two of those mornings, the school offers intramural sports, since most kids can’t stay after school. (They need buses to get them home, and the school can’t afford a late bus.)

The impact of this extra play time? “Attendance has increased significantly,” Cassidy says. In fact, chronic absences have dropped 11 percent, which is huge.

District spokesman Darian Bryd calls the turnaround “foundational.” By building in more play, Cassidy “made Liberty Middle a place where students feel connected.”

And while other middle schools in the district also showed some attendance improvement last year, Liberty’s leap outpaced the next closest school by more than 4 percentage points.

Subject proficiency levels are up too — in part simply because the kids are coming to school. “I can’t teach them if they’re not here,” Cassidy says. “So we get them here,.” Discipline problems have dropped, too.

Now Liberty is one of just two Title 1 middle schools in South Carolina to achieve a rating of “excellent.”

“While many factors have contributed to this growth,” Cassidy wrote in a report on her school’s achievements —she’s leaving Liberty Middle to run Liberty Elementary school this fall — “we began intentionally incorporating play opportunities during my first year. Each year since, we have expanded those opportunities. Increased play has positively impacted school climate, student engagement and attendance.”

Greenville Pro Soccer has announced it will reopen its community offering through Greenville-based Vicinity Capital on Monday, Aug. 17, giving fans and community members the opportunity to own a stake in Greenville Triumph SC and Greenville Liberty SC.

The reopening follows a successful initial round held April 21-30, which attracted nearly 100 investors and raised more than $733,000 during its limited spring window. Through Regulation Crowdfunding (Reg CF), the offering allows supporters to become equity owners in Greenville Pro Soccer, joining an ownership group that includes international soccer icon Ronaldinho Assis, and participate in the organization’s continued growth.

“We were incredibly encouraged by the response to our first community investment opportunity,” said Wallace Cheves, chairman of Greenville Pro Soccer. “The Triumph and Liberty have always been rooted in this community, and it was exciting to see so many people want to take that connection a step further and become part of our investor group. With the response we saw this spring, we wanted to create another opportunity for people across the Upstate to be part of what we are building.”

Funds raised through Vicinity will support Greenville Pro Soccer’s next phase of growth, including investments in team and operational capacity, marketing and brand development, and working capital for long-term growth initiatives. Full investment terms, eligibility requirements and risk disclosures are available through Vicinity.

Every investor receives an equity stake in Greenville Pro Soccer and access to the Owners Club program, with additional perks available based on investment level. Investment perk levels begin at $2,500 and range through the $100,000+ Club Partner tier, with benefits including special event access, owner-edition merchandise and premium match-day experiences.

The opportunity comes at a significant time for Greenville Pro Soccer, following the opening of GE Vernova Park at BridgeWay Station this summer amid continued growth of the soccer culture across the Upstate. The new stadium gives the Triumph and Liberty their first permanent, purpose-built home, creating new opportunities to grow attendance, sponsorships, match-day experiences and fan engagement.

Those interested in owning a stake in Greenville Pro Soccer can visit the Greenville Pro Soccer offering page on Vicinity’s site at https://marketplace.vicinityventures.co/offers/86 to review the offering details.

Donkey River Farm in Liberty, SC is a guided animal cuddle experience run by a real Upstate family on a beautiful working farm. In this article, we cover what it’s like to visit, which animals you’ll meet, how to book a session, why cuddling farm animals is genuinely good for you (science says so!), and an honest mom review from a family who has been there.

If you are looking for an adorable escape from reality, Donkey River Farm in Liberty, SC might just become your family’s new favorite spot. We took our crew out for a cuddle session and honestly? We left happier than when we showed up. Between the giant fluffy bunnies, the majestic Highland cows that had me asking what hair products they used, and the sweet animals waiting to meet you in the meadow, this place is pure magic for families of any age. Yes, even teenagers love it. We brought teenagers. They loved every single second of it.

Quick Facts: Donkey River Farm

What Is Donkey River Farm?

Donkey River Farm is a family farm tucked into the rolling hills of Liberty, South Carolina, right in the heart of the Upstate. It’s owned and operated by Morgan and Kyle, along with their four kids, who have built something really special out here: a place where visitors can slow down, breathe, and just be with animals.

Morgan is the scientist of the operation, a former college instructor with a master’s degree in Molecular Biology and a bachelor’s in Animal Science, so when she tells you something about how the animals work and what they need, she actually knows what she’s talking about. Kyle, meanwhile, is the builder of the duo and is constantly working on new additions to make the farm experience even better for visitors. Together, they have built a place that feels rooted in genuine love for what they do.

The whole farm runs on a philosophy of slowing down, connecting with nature, and letting animals do what animals do best: make you feel better about everything. Whether you have a toddler who loves bunnies or a teenager who needs a break from screens, this farm delivers.

The Animals You’ll Meet

OK, let’s talk about the real stars of the show. Because wow, they are cute.

Our absolute favorites were the big fluffy bunnies (we’re talking seriously giant, seriously snuggly bunnies), the Highland cows with their long swooshy hair and the most gentle eyes you’ve ever seen, and the baby doll sheep. Like, these sheep look like literal teddy bears but in sheep form and are oh-so-cute! Every animal here is calm, well-socialized, and completely comfortable with people, which makes the whole experience feel easy and natural, even for kids who might be nervous around animals at first.

The donkeys on the farm will absolutely charm you. They are so gentle and follow you around. The goats are typical goats – mischievous, curious, and friendly. All the animals have clearly been raised with care and attention, and it shows.

The Cuddle Sessions: What to Expect

Donkey River Farm offers three main visit experiences, all by reservation only. Here’s what you need to know:

There is also a handwashing station on site, which is a very good thing when you’re spending quality time with animals. All visitors sign the SC Agritourism Liability Waiver before the session begins.

Spots fill up fast, especially on weekends and holidays, so book as soon as you can.

Tip: Book your session at donkeyriverfarm.com as soon as you know your date. Weekend spots fill up quickly, especially during school breaks and holidays.

Science Says: Cuddling Farm Animals Is Actually Good for You

Here’s the thing: it’s not just a fun afternoon out. Research backs up what you’ll feel the moment you step into that meadow and put your hands on a Highland cow or a giant bunny.

A 2024 study published in PLOS ONE found that people who spent even a short time interacting with farm animals experienced a 25% reduction in anxiety, compared to a 13% reduction in people who simply went for a walk in a botanical garden. Animals > gardens. The researchers concluded that the hands-on experience of being with animals creates something beyond what nature alone can offer.

An earlier controlled experiment published in the journal Anxiety, Stress, and Coping found that petting an animal specifically reduced state anxiety, and the effect applied to people regardless of whether they considered themselves animal lovers. The real-animal contact was what made the difference, not just the act of petting something soft.

In other words, leaving the farm happier than when you arrived isn’t just a feeling. It’s biology. So booking that Highland cow session? Basically self-care.

Farm Events and What’s Coming

Beyond the regular cuddle sessions, Donkey River Farm hosts events throughout the year where visitors can enjoy live music, ice cream, and time with the animals. The best way to stay in the loop is to follow the farm on social media and sign up for their email list on their website so you get early booking links, event updates, and discounts straight to your inbox.

Kyle is also actively building out new experiences on the farm like gem mining, so there is always something new on the horizon. A farm store is coming soon, which means this already great day trip is about to get even better.

Looking for something extra special? The farm also offers field trips for schools and groups starting at $10 per person, a mobile petting zoo they can bring to your event, and private events including birthday parties starting at $250. If you have been searching for a truly unique birthday venue, consider this your sign.

Honest Mom Review

I walked away from Donkey River Farm genuinely happy. Not just “that was a fun afternoon” happy, but lighter. The farm is immaculately clean, and the animals clearly get the best care. Everything about the way Morgan and Kyle run this place tells you they are in it for the love of it, not as a side hustle. You can feel the difference.

The experience is absolutely great for any age. I brought teens, and they absolutely loved it. We had such a blast with all the animals and learning about the farm from Morgan and Kyle. That’s the magic of slowing down and being with animals: it works on everyone.

The animals are the clear highlight. The bunnies are gigantic and irresistible. The Highland cows are gentle giants. The baby doll sheep are just crazy cute. But beyond the animals themselves, the whole atmosphere of the farm is calm and unhurried. There is no rush, no chaos, no overwhelming crowd. It is exactly the kind of experience that is hard to find and impossible to forget.

Plan Your Visit to Donkey River Farm

Donkey River Farm is located in Liberty, South Carolina, approximately 35 minutes from downtown Greenville. All sessions are by reservation only. Book your spot at donkeyriverfarm.com. Address is 1576 Greenville Hwy, Liberty, SC 29657. Park at the blue shed.

More Farm and Animal Fun Near Greenville

More farm adventures in the Upstate: Hidden Pasture Unicorn Farm in Fountain Inn, SC

Animals and ice cream in one spot: Ice Cream, Animals, and Fun at Famoda Farm near Greenville

Baby goats and homesteading fun in Travelers Rest: Double Blessing Farm: The Quaint Family Farm You Must See

Frequently Asked Questions About Donkey River Farm

Yes. All sessions at Donkey River Farm are by reservation only. Spots fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during school holidays, so book your visit as early as possible at donkeyriverfarm.com.

Pricing depends on the session you choose. The Farm Tour with Goat and Bunny Encounter is $12 per person, with kids 4 and under free. Donkey Cuddle sessions start at $40 for up to 2 guests and $60 for a family of up to 5. Highland Cow Cuddle sessions start at $50 for up to 2 guests and $70 for a family of up to 5. Feed cup add-ons are $5 each.

It is genuinely great for every age. Teenagers enjoy it just as much as the little ones. The farm also offers couple-friendly experiences, making it a fun and unusual outing for adults too. Science even backs up why it feels so good for everyone: interacting with animals significantly reduces anxiety and lifts mood.

Donkey River Farm is located in Liberty, South Carolina, in the Upstate, approximately 35 minutes from downtown Greenville. Address is 1576 Greenville Hwy, Liberty, SC 29657.

Yes! The farm offers guided field trips for schools and groups starting at $10 per person, birthday party packages starting at $250, and a mobile petting zoo experience they can bring to your event. Contact the farm through donkeyriverfarm.com for details and availability.

The best way is to follow the farm on social media and sign up for their email list at donkeyriverfarm.com. Subscribers get early booking links, event announcements, and exclusive discounts. The farm hosts events throughout the year including live music, ice cream, and animal time.

LIBERTY, S.C., Aug. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Peabody Engineering, LLC is advancing its next phase of growth with a $9 million investment in a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Liberty, South Carolina. The expansion reflects the company's continued momentum, increased customer demand, and long-term commitment to serving the chemical storage, handling, and feed systems markets with dependable, customer-driven solutions.

The Liberty facility expansion is designed to increase Peabody Engineering's manufacturing capacity, strengthen operational efficiency, and support the company's ability to respond to a growing range of customer needs. As demand continues to rise across industrial, municipal, agricultural, commercial, and water treatment applications, the expanded facility will help Peabody Engineering bring more solutions to market while maintaining the service, quality, and expertise customers have come to rely on.

"This investment is about growth, but it is also about responsibility," said Mark Peabody, CEO of Peabody Engineering. "Through years of hard work, investing in our future, and the dedication of an amazing team of employees, we have come to a point where we are able to address a broad range of market challenges we never could have anticipated in the past. Our products have become a staple in the industry, but we're far from finished. We have lots of new ideas that will catapult us to the next level and create even more innovative solutions to meet the needs of our customers."

The facility expansion also supports Peabody Engineering's continued product development across several core tank lines. In 2026, the company is expanding its product portfolio with a particular emphasis on larger size ranges for ProChem and Gemini tanks, along with additional options designed to improve flexibility, availability, and performance in chemical and process handling applications.

Product updates include:

Peabody Engineering's innovation continues to be shaped by direct customer feedback and real-world application needs. The company's expanded manufacturing footprint will allow the team to better support customers looking for durable, dependable tank systems and customized solutions for chemical storage and feed applications.

"Our innovation is driven by what our customers tell us they need, and we strive to respond with the best possible solutions to address those needs," said Mark. "Our customers have made it clear that we have hit the mark on what they need in chemical storage and feed applications. We strive to be their closest ally in developing customized solutions, with great customer service and expertise they have grown to rely upon."

The Liberty expansion marks an important milestone for Peabody Engineering as the company continues building for the future. With increased capacity, expanded product offerings, and a dedicated team behind its growth, Peabody Engineering remains focused on serving customers with the same commitment to quality, service, and innovation that has guided the company for decades.

"We are blessed to have achieved the success we have thus far," said Mark. "We owe it to our customers, our vendors, our amazing team, and most of all, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, for His favor, grace, and guidance that has gotten us where we are and will lead us into a great future for Peabody Engineering, LLC."

About Peabody Engineering, LLC

Founded in 1952, Peabody Engineering, LLC is a leading manufacturer of high-quality storage tanks, chemical feed systems, process handling solutions, and related products serving a wide range of industrial, municipal, agricultural, commercial, and water treatment markets. With a commitment to engineering excellence, responsive service, and customer-driven innovation, Peabody Engineering provides durable, dependable solutions designed to support critical chemical storage and handling applications.

For more information, visit 4peabody.com.

Media Contact:Mark PeabodyCEOPeabody Engineering, LLCPhone: 1-800-4-PEABODYWebsite:

SOURCE Peabody Engineering, LLC

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LIBERTY, S.C. (WSPA) – Liberty has changed, grown, and in some ways, stayed the same over the years.

Like many cities in the Upstate, its history is rooted in the railroad.

The story of the community can be told right along Commerce Street, where shops, storefronts and small businesses have reflected the highs and lows of Liberty through the years.

The city, originally known as Liberty Spring, was named after a local church.

Local historians said the land, located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, was once home to the Cherokee before becoming subsistence farmland. But after the Civil War, the railroad came to town and helped Liberty grow.

“Everything kind of developed around the railroad as a railroad town in the 1870s, and then it experienced another boom with a textile industry later in the 1900s, where the population basically doubled,” David Cole, a local realtor and self-described historian, said.

Liberty also had small cotton gins, where farmers brought their harvested cotton, something residents still remember fondly.

“My granny would take her big bag and go across the road where there was a huge cotton field and she would pick cotton, and they would have to take it over to the cotton gin and get it ginned. I think that was the only one right here in Pickens County,” Rhonda Whitaker, a Liberty resident and city council member, said.

Cole said Liberty’s biggest industry came later with textile mills that turned cotton into fabric and built entire mill villages around the work.

At one point, those mills employed more than 1,000 people.

According to city leaders, Liberty’s population today is around 3,500 people.

While its charm has allowed some businesses to thrive, slower growth has also left some buildings vacant.

“We are trying to get that resolved, hopefully someday. It’s a slow process. But yeah, it really hasn’t changed as far as the looks, but it has what’s in there, what’s on the street,” Whitaker said.

For longtime residents, Liberty’s history is not just found in buildings, it’s found in memories.

Much of that history can still be seen at the Rosewood Center, which remains standing and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Today, it serves as a community center, but it was once one of only two Black high schools in Pickens County.

Following desegregation in the 1970s, it became an elementary school attended by Neil Lomax, a local business owner and lifelong Liberty resident.

“I went to kindergarten there. I remember getting paddlings there when they still used to do that,” Lomax said.

“I will never forget that place. It’s engraved in my mind.”

For Lomax, Liberty’s history is also about opportunity.

That opportunity led him to open his own business last year, continuing a tradition of local entrepreneurship that has shaped the city for generations.

Today, residents said Liberty’s future depends on preserving what makes the city special while welcoming new opportunities.

As Liberty celebrates its 150th birthday, city leaders, business owners and residents hope others will experience the shops, restaurants and history that continue to shape the community they call home.

Liberty’s city leaders said they’ll be celebrating the area’s 150th birthday all year long with events and activities.

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