1 — Shady Ridge: neighborhood park with play equipment and picnic table
2 — Woman’s Club: shelter picnic area and playground
3 — Miller Woods: a native prairie area with a half-mile loop summer walking trail, winter cross-country ski trail in a restored oak savanna
4 — Rotary: one of Hutchinson’s larger playgrounds, shelter with large serving counter, paved half-mile trail around park and outdoor fitness equipment, restrooms
5 — Oddfellows: outdoor archery, picnic shelter, restrooms, play equipment along the Luce Line State Trail
6 — Roberts: four regulation softball/baseball fields, boat landing, restrooms, basketball court, sand volleyball, gravel trail through native tall grass prairie. Hutchinson Public Schools’ ecology site borders the east side of the park.
7 — AFS: a memorial park with various tree species, a statue and plaque remembering foreign exchange students
8 — Masonic/West River: showers, boat landing, restrooms, picnic area, sand volleyball, play equipment, shelters, RV and tent camping sites, permanent stage (available for rent), paddle sport equipment such as canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards are available for rent in the summer months at the garage building on site
9 — Riverside Jaycee: horseshoe courts, restrooms, picnic area, play equipment, ball field, shelter and a native prairie area on the east end of the park
10 — Kiwanis: also known as Rocket Hill; play equipment, enclosed picnic shelter with restroom, snow sliding hill with warming house
11 — Eheim: scenic area north of dam with look-out pier and seating, statue of Little Crow
12 — Girl Scout/Gateway: scenic area south of dam with mass perennial plantings and seating benches, large mural painted on building with seating area
13 — Fireman’s: a memorial park honoring firefighters with sheltered picnic area, play equipment, WPA fountain pool and bridge
14 — Kimberly: neighborhood park with play equipment and access to Luce Line State Trail on city’s east side
15 — North Woods: volleyball, restrooms, Little League fields, play equipment, enclosed picnic shelter, in winter outdoor hockey/pleasure skating rink
16 — Lions Park East: picnic area near State Highway 7 with play equipment
17 — Boy Scout: picnic area near State Highway 7 with a Boy Scout statue
18 — Old Bass Pond: natural area next to the Crow River and Luce Line State Trail
19 — Tartan Park/VMF Field: fenced baseball field and top flight baseball field (home to the Hutchinson Huskies town team) with a sand volleyball court, playground, walking trail, skateboard park, picnic area and BMX terrain bike course
20 — North/Community Playground: tennis/pickle ball courts, pleasure/pond hockey ice rink with warming house, extensive playground behind Park Elementary School
21 — South: 10-acre park with mature trees, three picnic shelters, restrooms, play equipment, 9-hole disc golf course available year-round
22 — Legion: along State Highway 15 South with a picnic shelter
23 — VFW: youth baseball field, play equipment, basketball court, picnic shelter, restroom -the park is adjacent to Oakland Cemetery
24 — Elks: picnic shelter, restrooms, recreational ball field, volleyball, extensive inclusive play equipment, along with off-street parking
25 — Linden: park is adjacent to the Hutchinson Family Aquatic Center/Recreation Center and two indoor ice rinks at Burich Arena, an outdoor paved walking path and two T-ball-sized ball fields
26 — Lions Park West: neighborhood park with picnic table and play equipment
27 — Junior Community Women: a neighborhood park with new play equipment in 2021, area near high school with a basketball hoop and picnic tables
28 — Crow River Recreational Area: adjacent to Crow River and Luce Line State Trail with picnic areas
29 — McLeod County Veterans Memorial: a memorial park with a Walk of Honor, monuments, sculptures, large picnic shelter and restrooms
30 — Library Square: home of the 1904 Carnegie Library and site of an 1862 Dakota U.S. War stockade. Is used for many community activities; Dairy Days in June, summer Monday Music in the Park series and Arts & Crafts Festival in September. Contains a band stand for concerts and private events, center fountain and Hutchinson Brothers statues, along with other art pieces
31 — Rolling Meadows: small neighborhood park with playground equipment and single sunshade shelter
32 — Driftriders: a scenic outlook, sledding hill, 1/4-mile walking trail, picnic shelter, nature-theme playground
33 — Law Enforcement: a statue of a police officer honors those who have protected Hutchinson, including fallen officers
34 — Community Dog Park/East River Park: The fenced in area offers space for both large and small dogs. The park is on the south side of Crow River, east of Depot Marketplace, home of the Hutchinson Farmers Market
For more information about Hutchinson parks, call Sara Witte, parks supervisor, at 320-234-4228.
Presented by Charlotte Motor Speedway, home of the Charlotte Auto Fair April 7-10. Expect thousands of classics, customs, hot rods and collectibles, plus vendors and a Kids’ Zone. Tickets are just $10.
65. Mostly sunny. 5% chance of rain.
Yoga in the Garden atRosies Wine Garden NoDa: Get a bright and early start to your Friday and head to Rosie’s for a vinyasa-based flow streamed through noise-canceling headphones. 8:30-9:30am. $15. Details.
Shwayze Live at The Music Yard: Sit at the picnic tables and listen to Malibu rapper, Shwayze perform some of his top hits like “Buzzin’” and “Corona and Lime.” 6pm. $20. Details.
Drumstrong Ukraine at Starlight on 22nd: This hands-on community event aims to raise funds for initiatives in and around Ukraine. Drums and percussion instruments will be provided. 6:30-8:30pm. Free, $10 donation recommended. Details.
Lane 8 Reviver Tour at The Fillmore: Soak in the vibes and music from EDM artist Lane 8. There’s one catch to this show – it’s a “This Never Happened” event meaning no phones or cameras. 7pm. $30.50. Details.
Overnight Cinnamon Buns with SkillPop: Culinary instructor Emily Trotochaud will show you how to bake delicious cinnamon buns with a sweet cinnamon filling and cream cheese frosting. 7-8:30pm. $24. Details.
Irish Whiskey Dinner at Tyber Creek Pub: Tickets to this event include a welcome drink, a three-course meal, and a guided tasting of five specialty Irish whiskies. 7pm. $75. Details.
Haunted History Irish Tour at Historic Rosedale: Join the Rosedale staff and the Charlotte Area Paranormal Society (CAPS) for a special evening of Irish-themed Haunted History. 7-8pm. $20-$25. Details.
Love, Loss, and What I Wore at Camp North End: Five performers will recount stories of heartbreak and joy from 28 women through the lens of the clothes they wore. March 24 through April 10; 7:30pm. $28. Details.
Jesus Christ Superstar at Belk Theater: Now in its 50th year, the iconic musical phenomenon chronicles the final weeks in the life of Jesus Christ as seen through the eyes of Judas. Through Sunday; showtimes vary. $25+. Details.
63. Mostly sunny. 6% chance of rain.
Get Your Rear in Gear 5k at First Ward Park: Run/walk to raise awareness for those battling colorectal cancer. 6:45-9:15am. $25-$45. Details.
The Whole Enchilada at the Whitewater Center: In this mountain bike race, riders can choose between The Whole Enchilada (~50 miles) and The Half Enchilada (~25 miles). 8am to 3pm. $40-$65. Details.
Rooftop Cardio Dance at The Metropolitan: Join dance studio AKT for a 45-minute, all-levels class that alternates between dance cardio and strength training. 9-9:45am & 10:30-11:15am. Free. Details.
Bring Your Own Bike Silent Disco at Armored Cow Brewing Co.: This cycling class uses headphones and stationary bike trainers to create a fun workout suited for all fitness levels. 10:30am $10-$30. Details.
Indigenous Peoples Day at Charlotte Museum of History: Learn about Catawba pottery and traditions through a guided tour and a live-streamed event with the Catawba Nation. 11am to 4pm. Free. Details.
Culture Shock Drag Brunch at Resident Culture South End: Bring your crew for a high-energy show featuring five local queens and host India Ferrah. 11am. $15-$20. Details.
The BEER Event at The Innovation Barn: This beer festival will showcase some of the most eco-friendly breweries in the region. Visitors will be able to sample beers and learn about brewers making the brewing process more sustainable. 1-5pm. $60. Details.
Gōl Elevated Tailgate & Watch Party at 704 Morris Street: Gōl is offering an elevated tailgating experience for every CLTFC home game. Expect beer, wine and cocktails as well as some tasty dishes from Bodega Food Wagon. 2pm. $5. Details.
Mushroom Log Workshop & Fungi Feast at North Corner Haven: This experience will give you an introduction to forest foraging and cultivating edible mushrooms in your backyard. Following the workshop, you’ll enjoy a three-course fungi-forward meal. 3-8:30pm. $250. Details.
Charlotte FC vs. FC Cincinnati at Bank of America Stadium: Catch Charlotte FC for their third home game of the season. 5pm. $43+. Details.
The OMB Disc Golf Course at The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery & Biergarten: Play OMB’s nine-hole, par 2 course on the grounds of the beirgarten. Discs will be available for purchase or you can bring your own discs. 5-10pm. $5 per round. Details.
Charlotte Black Pride Launch Party at NoDa Brewing Company: Enjoy an evening of local performances, vendors plus food and drink. 6-9pm. Free. Details.
Buff Faye’s The Real Housewives Drag Dinner: Four queens will be serving Charlotte-housewife-realness at this drag dinner and show. 7pm. $35. Details.
Related read: 10 Charlotte neighborhoods as Real Housewives taglines
Bad Bunny El Ultimo Tour Del Mundo at the Spectrum Center: Rapper and singer Bad Bunny is coming to Charlotte and we could not be more hyped. 8pm. $195.91. Details.
Kyle I MISS U Tour at The Fillmore: You may recognize Kyle from his 2016 hit song iSpy with Lil Yachty. Vibe out with Kyle and guest artist Leven Kali. 8pm. $27.50. Details.
61. Sunny. 1% chance of rain.
Spray Paint Workshop at We Rock Charlotte: Learn the basics of spray painting and get comfortable with a can in your hand while the group completes a multi-layered abstract spray paint mural on fabric. 10am to noon. $52. Details.
Pilates and Pints at Edge City Brewery: Bring a mat and a buddy and join in on this pilates class. Following the class enjoy a free drink. 11am. Free. Details.
2nd Annual CLT Donut Festival at Norfolk Hall: Prepare your sweet tooth for a sweet festival showcase of some of Charlotte’s favorite bakeries including BW Sweets Bakery, Donut I Love You, Duck Donuts, Donut NV, Dunkin Donuts, Cinnaholic Bakery Belmont and Mamolo’s Latin Bakery. 1-5pm. $25+. Details.
Party in the Park at Mint Museum Randolph: Guests can enjoy free admission to the museum, food trucks, live music and a cash bar on the front terrace (weather permitting). 2-4pm. Free. Details.
Pups on the Patio at Billy Sunday: There will be adoptable dogs, drink specials, prizes and giveaways. 2-5pm. $1 donation. Details.
Buff Faye’s “MEAN GURLS” Drag Dinner: If you wear pink on Wednesdays and your go-to Halloween costume is a mouse (duh), then this drag show is for you. 6pm. $35. Details.
Food & Flix: Pretty in Pink Alchemy at C3Lab: This week’s screening is of Pretty in Pink. Hot dogs and nachos (with an Alchemy twist) will be available for purchase. Ticket sales will help support the Film Society’s “Independent Picture House” project, which will open in NoDa later this year. 6-9pm. $5. Details.
Check out more upcoming events on ourEvent Board. Hosting an event? Reach more Charlotteans through anEvent Listing, which includes placement on our Event Board and in our weekday newsletter. Have a scoop about a cool event? Email[email protected].
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LA MARQUE — Mudbugs, crawdads, crayfish, craydids, crawdaddies, freshwater lobsters, mountain lobsters, rock lobsters or yabbies — whatever you want to call them, if you enjoy a plate or two of tasty seafood treats, tickets are still available for the April 1-2 Big Crawfish Bash in LaMarque, just north of Galveston Bay.
This annual event that set a 2017 Guinness world record for serving 58,083.98 pounds of crawfish in eight hours will include all-you-can-eat crawfish, live music, a crawfish cookoff with more than 50 teams competing, vendor booths, veteran VIP tent, multiple restaurants and a kid zone.
Located at Highland Bayou Park, 1991 Getty Road in La Marque, the rain or shine event is hosted by the Big Crawfish Bash Foundation, a Texas nonprofit corporation that works in partnership with local charities to benefit veterans, children and the disabled. This year, donations will also be made to Camp Hope, Texas Special Olympics and local education foundations, Boy Scouts of America and more.
COVID-19 safety precautions will be implemented per state and local authorities.
While you are in the area, consider taking a trip over to the Texas City Dike, known as the longest man-made fishing pier in the world. Stretching 5.3 miles out into Galveston Bay, the dike is one of the most popular boat launch and fishing areas along the Gulf coast. There are restrooms, a beach area, fish-cleaning stations, bait and tackle shops, restaurants, picnic shelters, a large playground, hike and bike trails, bike rentals, an 18-hole disc golf course and more amenities to enjoy.
From the first weekend in March to the last weekend in October, a charge of $10 per vehicle is required to enter the dike on weekends. It is free during winter months and most summer weekdays. On holiday weekends, the fee goes up to $20 per vehicle per day. Weekend passes for RVs are $30.
Entry fees are only charged to those who drive a vehicle onto the dike. People who want to walk or run or ride bikes do not have to pay.
Authorized for construction by the Texas Legislature in 1935, the Texas City Dike was built from granite blocks ranging in size from a small suitcase to a subcompact car, with a wide paved road running its length. The dike also offers stunning views of lower Galveston Bay, a constant stream of commercial shipping vessels and private watercraft, along with nearby coastlines and islands to include Bolivar Peninsula, Virginia Point, Pelican Island and Galveston’s east end.
Speaking of Galveston, head on down to the island for a visit to Moody Gardens, a 242-acre facility that features three primary attractions: the Aquarium Pyramid, a 12-stories-tall facility containing some 10,000 marine animals including fish, sharks, seals and penguins, each representing various ocean regions from the North Pacific, South Pacific, South Atlantic and Caribbean; the Rainforest Pyramid, with tropical plants, animals, birds, butterflies, reptiles, monkeys and two-toed sloths; and the Discovery Pyramid, focusing on various science-oriented exhibits and activities.
Also at Moody Gardens is Palm Beach, a landscaped, white-sand beach primarily open in the summer months and including a small water park for kids, freshwater lagoons, lazy river, tower slides, hot tub, ziplines and a splash pad. For more information, visit www.moodygardens.com.
Last but not least, there are the many beaches for sunning, surfing, and swimming on Galveston Island.
Heading the list of nicest and most popular is East Beach, known by some as “party beach,” followed by the more family-friendly Stewart Beach, the less-crowded Galveston Pocket Park 2, Porretto Beach with its playgrounds, eateries and picnic areas, and the laid-back El Jardin Del Mar.
A truncated Goldendale City Council, minus Loren Meagher and Fil Ontoveros, met Monday night and rolled through a busy agenda. Councilors granted approval of the recently formed Goldendale Community Sports organization to stage a fundraising festival at Ekone Park on May 28, Memorial Day weekend. The organization, which began as a loose group playing pickup ball games and flowered into a Facebook group, is now formal nonprofit organization. The group reported it has staged a number of family-friendly activities, including street hockey, dodgeball, board game nights, ping-pong, radio-controlled model racing, disc golf, and more. They also came to the park after the Fourth of July to clean up the fireworks debris and will be volunteering at the Home and Garden show and Community Days. As the organization’s fundraising chair, Austin Berard, put it, “Everything that we’ve done has been out of our pocket. Basically, we just want to do a fundraising event so we can raise money for sports equipment.”
Councilors thoroughly approved of the group’s civic responsibility and had no problem with a request to waive the fee the city usually charges for events at the park.
The council also noted major changes in administration, approving the mayor’s appointment of Sandy Wells as city clerk/treasurer, retroactive to March 17. They also supported a resolution setting up a termporary position of deputy city administrator and appointing Patrick Munyan to that post. In essence, it creates a job-shadowing situation for Munyan, who will step into Larry Bellamy’s city administrator role when Bellamy retires in June.
Mayor Mike Canon said Munyon will be also be appointed as director of public works
“He’s very strong in both fields, and we’re excited—very excited—to have him in Goldendale,” Canon said.
In other business, councilors approved replacing two copy machines and changed the Animal Control Ordinance to charge owners fees equaling the actual cost of housing the animals. Police Chief Jay Hunziker emphasized that when they find a stray dog, they make every effort to return it to the owner before impounding the animal. “That’s why it’s so important to have licenses for your dog,” he said. The city is not using the former animal shelter building, which was deemed wholly inadequate a few years ago. Instead, they are housing animals with local veterinarians who bill the city, with those costs being passed on to owners.
Another ordinance that passed easily was to raise stipends for members of the city’s volunteer fire department. Mayor Mike Canon said that it had been many years since those stipends had been updated. He reported that legal council said under state law, in order to be considered volunteer rather than city employees, stipends should be limited to 20 percent of the compensation given full-time firefighters in similarly sized cities. After investigating wages for firefighters in 10 eastern Washington towns from Buckley to Zillah, it was determined that the city could pay an additional $1,600 per month to the fire chief, $975 to the assistant chief, and $325 to each captain. Regular firefighter stipends will increase from $10 per required training session and incident to $40. The cost to the city was estimated at $65,000 annually, and City Administrator Larry Bellamy said the city had more than twice that amount available in cash surplus to cover the cost.
BANGOR – Disc golf is one of the fastest-growing sports out there these days, and the state of Maine is a particular hotbed. Now, one area group is seeking to introduce younger players to the game.
Maine Youth Disc Golf is the brainchild of Sam Betts, a local disc golfer who saw an opportunity to grow the game by reaching out to area high schools. Over the coming months, Betts – along with a bevy of volunteers from various courses (including the owner/operators of those courses) – will be operating weekly events in an effort to bring the game to as many new players as possible.
Beginning in April and running through May, every Sunday will feature a disc golf skills clinic at Orrington’s D.R. Disc Golf. In addition, numerous area courses will offer Friday afternoon rounds for program attendees. The list includes the two courses at D.R. in Orrington and their Orono course, along with Circle Two in Bradford, Hidden Acres in Old Town and Legacy Farms in Winterport. For details and more information, visit www.maineyouthdiscgolf.com or check out Maine Youth Disc Golf on Facebook.
I spoke to Betts about what prompted him to try and get this program off the ground, as well as why he chose high schoolers as his initial focus.
“Long story short, I want to help disc golf grow!” he said. “I’ve noticed in the Bangor area that there are not many young adults, high schoolers and kids playing disc golf! Personally, I did not know what disc golf was until I was in my twenties! I want to help change that. Being the first attempt, I wanted to target high schoolers.”
When asked about his plans for MYDG, Betts had a simple response.
“My vision for the program is just to introduce the sport to as many people as I can, make it as fun as possible and hope they continue to partake in the sport.”
Betts has made overtures to numerous local high schools regarding the program, reaching out to 10 different school administrators; the initial results have been a bit mixed – he’s heard back from five of the 10 schools so far – but he’s optimistic going forward.
“Early interest has been tough,” he said. “I personally do not know many high schoolers. I’ve reached out to as many parents as I know, and I’ve gotten word from 6 or 8 kids that they are willing to come out. I’m hoping I can get each youth to bring one friend to help double the numbers.”
While those early numbers might not be as high as Betts had hoped, there’s still time. And one thing is for certain – he’s got the area disc golf community behind him in his efforts, including the folks who own and run courses in the region.
“Local course owners have been amazing! Everyone is on board to help however they can,” said Betts. “Every disc golfer I’ve brought my idea to has been extremely supportive. It’s getting the word out to the youth that is the toughest part.”
Betts suggests that anyone interested in the program reach out – or have a parent reach out – and contact him through the MYDG website.
Participants in these early sessions can expect to learn the basics: different types of throws and grips and an understanding of the different types of discs – including the at-times-inscrutable-seeming numbers attached to them – and a breakdown of the fundamental rules of the game.
And of course, the most important part – having fun! Betts wants to make it clear that disc golf is a game with an extremely low barrier for entry, inexpensive and accessible for people of any age and skill level.
“It’s an activity for all,” he said. “It is a great way to be outside with peers, friends, and family; a nice way to get some laughs in at hitting trees all missing easy shots. It’s a good way to get some simple exercise in our beautiful Maine woods.”
For what it’s worth, I can vouch for that last bit. I started playing disc golf over 20 years ago, first learning the game at Trenton’s Hapana course and playing all over the state. While I have been and out of the scene in the years since – playing avidly for a few years, checking out for a few, picking the sport back up, lather, rinse repeat – I can state without hesitation that the area scene is as robust as it has ever been. And with dedicated disc golfers continuing to open new courses and refine existing ones, there’s no question that there has never been a better time to be a Maine disc golfer.
(Oh, and I’ve played on a card or two with Sam over the past couple of years – dude can play, just so you know.)
There’s real passion for the sport among its current adherents; what Sam Betts is trying to do is pass that passion on to the next generation of players. If you are a high school student with an interest in learning more about disc golf – or the parent of one – you should strongly consider taking advantage of this opportunity.
(Maine Youth Disc Golf’s initial offerings are scheduled to tee off the first weekend in April and run each weekend through the month of May. For updates or other information, you can visit the MYDG website at www.maineyouthdiscgolf.com or check out their Facebook page.)
A local store is combining disc golf holes with a fundraiser involving American flags.
Pecan City Disc Golf Shop is hosting a disc golf tournament in Seguin, bringing hundreds of competitors from across the country and as far away as Denmark. Proceeds will help the Guadalupe County Field of Honor with its annual planting of flags, Field of Honor chairperson Connie Ramirez said.
“That money is going back to help pay for the flags,” she said. “Anything after this, we will be able to cut a check to our beneficiary, which is the American Legion Post 245 in Seguin.”
Field of Honor places hundreds of flags annually in a field next to Faith Lutheran Church. Each flag represents a local hero and has a name of a local veteran, first responder, teacher or frontline worker attached to it.
Discs remain at a hole while a disc golfer practices at the Starcke Park Disc Golf Course.
The flags symbolize a lot to the organization and to the people who sponsor flags and have them placed in the field, Ramirez said.
“It’s not only a flag in the field, it’s a life,” she said. “This is a person who is serving our country or has served our country in some way.”
Hosting the tournament allows Pecan City Disc Golf Shop’s owners to highlight the sport of disc golf while also helping a worthwhile charitable organization, said Jericho Lomas, who owns the shop with his father.
“When we first dreamt of opening Pecan Disc Golf Shop, one of our values we wanted to focus on was giving back to our community,” he said. “This tournament is a great way to partner with our city and Humana to raise money for a local veteran organization.”
The city of Seguin is a co-sponsor and Humana is the title sponsor for the tournament, which will include 170 competitors including about 20 local professional disc golfers and two from Denmark. Amateurs will tee off alongside the pros in the tournament, Lomas said.
It will be his shop’s first sanctioned disc golf tournament in Seguin, Lomas said. So far, things look pretty promising with all the slots filled, he said.
“Through sponsorship money, I think we already raised over $8,000,” Lomas said. “The majority of that is going to go to the Field of Honor and what they do. That was the goal to try to get all their fundraiser money with just this one tournament versus having other fundraisers. The goal was knock it all out in one. Any extra funds will go to support the American Legion Post 245.”
The Pecan City Classic is set for 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. March 26 to 27 at the disc golf course in Max Starcke Park East. The community is invited to watch the players compete during the two-day tournament. Market Days also will take place during the tournament with more than 25 local businesses and vendors set up under the Patricia K. Irvine-King Pavilion in Starcke Park East. Spectators can browse and shop 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days.
“The Seguin Visitor Center has enjoyed working with the tournament organizers on bringing this event to Seguin,” said Kyle Kramm, Main Street & Convention and Visitors Bureau director. “Hosting these tournaments and events benefits Seguin in many ways, from increasing sales at restaurants to providing awareness about a growing sport in our community. It makes a tremendous impact on Seguin.”
The group plans to set up a miniature Field of Honor for which community members may buy flags for the full-scale Field of Honor.
This year’s Field of Honor will have more than 1,000 United States flags on display July 2 to July 9 at Faith Lutheran Church, 1326 E. Cedar. Flag sponsors are allowed to take home their flags after the event.
Field of Honor brings together community members to honor heroes in a meaningful way, Ramirez said.
“Throughout the event, we have speakers that come out and just tell about (their) flag, (their) person that’s out there,” she said. “Over the years, we’ve heard amazing stories. We have people from other towns that come out every evening and just sit out there and look at the display then talk about the time they served. There are some amazing people in this community.”
To help make it a rousing success, community members can participate in the disc golf tournament and events surrounding the tournament. Every bit will help make a difference, Ramirez said.
“We just hope we get a good turnout from the community,” she said. “We’re all intertwined and if there’s any way we can help each other out, that’s what we’re asking for.”
LAGRANGE — The LaGrange County Commissioners approved a plan Monday morning to allocate $1.5 million in American Rescue Plan monies the county has received to the LaGrange County Regional Utilities District to help it expand its services to residents of North and South Twin Lakes, the Still Lake area as well as Pigeon Lake.
Adam Sams spoke with the commissioners Monday morning at their regular meeting to formally make the request. The push to provide the district’s services to residents of Pigeon Lake is still not guaranteed. The money provided by the county could be the difference to whether that project happens or not.
“We hoping with this money we can expand our services to Pigeon Lake. We won’t really be able to tell until we get the bids back in hand, because we’re going to bid Pigeon Lake as an alternative bid,” Sams said. “This is kind of the last large area of LaGrange County we need to provide services to.”
The proposed expansion of services would also require the regional utility district to upgrade and expand its recently completed wastewater treatment plant located north of Howe on State Road 9. When that project was built, Sams said the state, which helps provide some of the funding as well as the financial tools needed to raise the money required, frowned on building any such facility with future projects in mind.
Sams said this project would provide sanitary sewers to the last large populated area in the county without that kind of service.
That’s good news to many homeowners in the area, who have been denied the ability to update and modernize their homes due to the state health department limitations placed on properties near lakes that rely on septic tanks and leach fields.
Sams said this project appears to have the overwhelming support of the area’s residents. The expansion would add another 350 to 400 customers being serviced by LCRUD’s Howe area wastewater treatment plant. However, to ensure the plant isn’t overwhelmed, Sams said the plant will be expanded.
“When we built that plant, we knew if we took in North and South Twin Lakes, we were going to have to expand that plant,” he said. “Most funding agencies won’t allow you to build to the future, so we had to build to what we needed knowing we would have to expand. We don’t want to push the plant to its limits.”
In other matters, the commissioners approved moving ahead with a plan to seek bids for a renovation project at the LaGrange County Courthouse. The project will repaint the building’s dome, as well as shore up some of its aging brickwork, as well as replace several concrete windowsills.
Because the Courthouse is part of the National Register of Historic Places, the process of securing contractors is more regulated. The work must be done in accordance with the standard set forth by the organization. The work is expected to cost some in the neighborhood of $200,000, said Terry Martin, president of the board of commissioners.
The commissioners will open bids on the project on April 18 at 9 a.m.
The commissioners also approved an amendment to an agreement with Parkview Health that provides ambulance service in LaGrange County. The original agreement failed to include a clause requiring the county to make monthly payments of $10,000 to provide that service.
The commissioners also approved a LaGrange County Highway Department request to accept a bid of $419239.47 by Pavement Solutions of Richmond, Illinois, to use a process called micro paving to repave roads around Dallas, Witmer, and Westler Lakes. Ben Parish, the LaGrange County Highway Department Superintendent said the company has already completed a project repaving roads around Oliver Lake, doing a good job. Parish said the small size of those roads combined with the size of the county’s paving machinery makes it difficult for the county to repave those roads.
The commissioner opted to approve a bid to purchase a small piece of property the county owned at the northwest corner of U.S. 20 and C.R. 500E in Plato. A dilapidated home on the property was declared in violation of the county’s nuisance ordinance and taken down and the lot was cleared of debris. The property is less than a quarter of an acre. Joseph Graber, who lives nearby, offered to purchase the property for $1,450.
The commissioners also authorized the state to reroute traffic onto county roads when it closes SR 5 north of Shipshewana for more than 200 days to rebuild a section of that road. The detour will route traffic off the state road at CR 450N, turn it south on CR 850W, and then on to CR250N. The state has not announced a start date for that project.
The commissioners also approved a LaGrange County Parks and Recreation Department request to purchase 18 new tee-pads for its disc golf course at Delt Church Park. The department is rebuilding that course.
Beach volleyball courts are headed to Canatara Park, and a nine-hole disc golf course to Centennial Park.
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Beach volleyball courts are headed to Canatara Park while a nine-hole disc golf course will be added to Centennial Park.
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The respective recreational builds were both unanimously approved by Sarnia city council this week. Both would be free to use for the 2022 season as pilot projects.
The beach volleyball courts are planned for the area near the park’s band shell and beach pavilion.
“We are looking inward a little bit, but adjacent to that beach, in that vicinity,” community services general manager Stacey Forfar said.
One-third of the 33 survey respondents selected the site over others short-listed for public input. The easily accessible location is near washrooms, boasts sufficient parking and has enough space for at least two courts, staff said.
A master plan for the park is also planned to look at parking lot improvements, among other things, Forfar said in response to a question from Coun. George Vandenberg.
Installing cement pads with posts for disc golf in Centennial Park will complement city waterfront master plan objectives to naturalize the area referred to as the Centennial Commons, economic development director Kelly Provost said.
Digging in the pads for the course won’t impact work done in the park years ago to cap asbestos, lead and hydrocarbons underground, Forfar said, in response to a question from Terry Burrell, who was serving as acting mayor in Mike Bradley’s absence.
There’s $150,000 budgeted for the beach volleyball courts and $25,000 for the disc golf course.
Apartment buildings approved
Rezoning and official plan amendments were approved unanimously to allow two four-storey apartment buildings on a former church property.
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Applicant SuvNet Developments plans 64 units on the former Holy Trinity Orthodox church property at 1244 Exmouth St., council heard.
The narrow 0.8-hectare property would be accessible to emergency vehicles, Forfar and fire Chief Bryan Van Gaver said in response to a question from Coun. Brian White.
Setback discussions with the Ministry of Transportation are ongoing, said Patrick Matkowski, who represented project agent Monteith Brown Planning Consultants.
City staff, in a report, called the intensification project appropriate redevelopment for the lands.
More time granted for Groves build
Developers behind a new subdivision planned in Bright’s Grove have another year to work out technical details.
Proponents with Bright’s Grove Golf Course Inc. need another year to finalize draft plan details for the Groves Active Lifestyle Community, approved in March 2019, council heard.
There was a three-year deadline from council’s previous decision, officials said.
Council unanimously agreed on the year-long extension, but Coun. Mike Stark said he doesn’t want any more leniency beyond that.
“I want to send a message loud and clear: ‘Get your act together,’” he said. “’You’ve go a year to do it. If you don’t do it within this year, you’re done.’”
No paid parking in Canatara, council says
Parking in Canatara Park needs to stay free, council said, turning down a request from Revelree Music Festival organizers to close off and charge for parking at Canatara Beach and Children’s Animal Farm lots from July 22 to July 23.
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Charging for parking goes against the principle of the land donation by Maud Hanna to Sarnia to create the park in the first place, Stark said.
“The purpose of Canatara Park is to be enjoyed by all the citizens of this City of Sarnia, with particular emphasis on people who cannot afford to pay for entertainment venues,” he said.
The decision leaves other options open for future consideration, council heard.
Coun. Margaret Bird spoke against any parking at the animal farm lot, noting concerns about noise and safety, and was the lone vote against in the 5-1 decision.
“There’s plenty of other places we can park,” she said.
White noted space could be given for volunteers and staff to use for staging, “but not to charge a fee to any of the users.”
Diversity training details pending
In a report from council’s closed-door session, clerk Amy Burkhart said council received legal advice about disclosing details about a botched diversity training session last November.
Council directed staff to work with external legal counsel “to report out to the legal extent possible materials associated with two closed meetings,” Burkhart said.
Further closed-door discussions, to help prepare a response for community calls for action, could happen next meeting, CAO Chris Carter, and councillors Terry Burrell and Nathan Colquhoun said.
Diesel buses approved
A purchase price of $1.3 million was approved for two new replacement 12-metre diesel buses for the city’s fleet.
A council decision on converting the fleet to electric is expected at 2023 budget deliberations, city officials reported.
All but $350,000 of the cost is covered by Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program grant money.
Looking for a neighborhood that has it all? The Upstate is home to several communities that are walkable with convenient access to things like pools, walking paths, gyms, restaurants, and shopping. In this guest post, our partner realtor Dan Hamilton describes some of his favorite features of some of these unique Upstate neighborhoods.
Where in Greenville, SC can you live with walkable amenities?
There are countless places to call home in Upstate, SC. For those who may be interested in a home within walking distance of activities, shopping, or dining, this guide is for you! Today we are breaking down Upstate neighborhoods with amazing amenities like pools, walking trails, and sports facilities, along with others that are right next to some unique shopping and retail locations.
Skip the car ride and settle down in one of these walkable neighborhood communities!
If you would like to learn more about one of these communities or are interested in finding the perfect home for you and your family, give Hamilton & Co. a call at 864-527-7685 or fill out our interest form (if you’re interested in selling, fill this one out). We are the highest-ranked real estate team in the Upstate and would love to help you make Greenville home!
Acadia
Situated on the Saluda River in Piedmont, SC, the Acadia community embodies outdoor living. And while Acadia feels secluded and close to nature,you don’t have to sacrifice convenience! The community is only a short 15-minute drive from Downtown Greenville.
This gorgeous community features a variety of home styles depending on your preference, from 1800 square foot cottages to 6000 square foot estates, with more neighborhoods coming soon. Acadia is zoned for Sue Cleveland Elementary, Woodmont Middle School, and Woodmont High School.
While Acadia’s homes are beautiful, it is their natural setting and generous amenities that truly stand out. Sports enthusiasts will find tennis and pickleball courts, soccer and playfields, and a Jr. Olympic lap pool. The community also has its own Youth Soccer Club and Swim Team. In addition to state-of-the-art sports facilities, Acadia features a PoolHouse lounge, concession kitchen, gym with locker rooms, outdoor pavilion for community events, and a host of community-led clubs.
If you enjoy living in a community with others and have a love for the outdoors, Acadia is a wonderful place to live!
Alta Vista
Conveniently located between Augusta Road, Faris Road, and Church Street, historic Alta Vista is the epitome of downtown Greenville living.
Homes in the Alta Vista district are upscale and luxurious, featuring a mix of traditional, Tudor, and cottage styles. Lots are large and stately with mature landscaping and gorgeous trees as old as the city itself. Schools in this community include Augusta Circle Elementary, Hughes Middle Academy, and Greenville High Academy.
A short drive from Main Street and Augusta Road amenities, Alta Vista residents have access to the best dining, shopping, and entertainment Greenville has to offer. Many of Greenville’s most beautiful parks, including Falls Park, Cancer Survivors Park, Cleveland Park, and the Rock Quarry Garden, are only a short walk from the community.
If you enjoy city living with accessible amenities and walkable parks, Alta Vista and the surrounding districts are excellent places to call home!
Botany Woods
About 10 minutes east of Downtown Greenville is Botany Woods, a popular community just off Wade Hampton Boulevard.
Botany Woods features a variety of home styles from traditional to contemporary estates and ranch style homes. Streets are lined with tall oaks, stately magnolias, and blooming azaleas in this established neighborhood. Schools near this community include Lake Forest Elementary, League Middle Academy, and Wade Hampton High.
In addition to its proximity to Wade Hampton retail, dining, and recreation as well as downtown Greenville, Botany Woods offers its residents many amenities. The private pool is open to all residents and hosts a community swim team. A ball field, playground, and community picnic shelter all encourage residents to get outside and active. Additionally, membership to Carolina Golf Club at Botany Woods is discounted for all residents. For those interested in exploring one of Greenville’s surrounding towns, downtown Greer is a short 20-minute drive from Botany Woods and features locally-owned boutiques, a peaceful park, and some of the best restaurants in the Upstate.
Botany Woods is a quiet community just outside the city, providing its residents with the opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life without sacrificing the amenities.
Gower Estates
One of the most popular neighborhoods in the Upstate, Gower Estates is a short 10-minute drive south of downtown Greenville. Gower is centrally located-living at its finest. In addition to its proximity to downtown Greenville, Gower sits just off Laurens Road and is only 10 minutes away from Woodruff Road, both of which feature a host of shopping and dining opportunities, not to mention movie theaters, amusement parks, and more.
Like many of the more established neighborhoods in the Upstate, Gower comprises a variety of quality built homes ranging from brick ranches to traditional styles and remodeled cottages. Homes in Gower typically sit back from the road on spacious lots and marry modern convenience with vintage charm. Families should note local schools include Sara Collins Elementary, Beck International Academy, and J.L. Mann High School.
Gower is known as a tight knit community with a host of engaging amenities. The community’s 21-acre Gower Park includes lighted baseball and softball fields, basketball courts, tennis and pickleball courts, and a 9-hole disc golf course. Paved walking trails, playgrounds, and 5 picnic shelters round out this exciting and diverse common area. Finally, Gower’s swimming pool and accompanying youth swim team is open to all residents.
A short drive from Greenville and some of the Upstate’s most popular shopping and dining, Gower Estates is the perfect place for families valuing a walkable, tight-knit community.
Hartness
Hartness is one of the Upstate’s newest and most-anticipated planned communities, offering residents dozens of engaging activities and amenities. “Rather than spending valuable time looking for places to go and things to do,” Hartness Living remarks, “At Hartness you simply step outside your door.” Hartness is a little further away from downtown Greenville (about 20 minutes), but only 10 minutes from Five Forks on Woodruff Road, a popular shopping and dining area in between Simpsonville and Greenville.
The Hartness community offers residents a variety of custom home layouts ranging from townhome to estate across multiple neighborhoods. Homes sit on smaller lots to accommodate for expansive common green spaces. Schools near Hartness include Oakview Elementary, Northwood Middle, and Eastside High School.
Hartness dwellers enjoy a Grand Lawn for outdoor events, 15 miles of biking and walking trails across the 180-acre Nature Preserve, and a Sports Garden complete with basketball courts, a bocce court, croquet lawn, tennis and pickleball courts, playground, and open spaces with benches. Additionally, residents have access to kayaks and paddleboards for a relaxing day on the lake. The Village Center features a restaurant, The Village Kitchen, and a number of boutique shops (with more opening soon!). And don’t forget about the gym and spa! You will never run out of things to do at Hartness.
Do you love staying on the move from the comfort of your home? Hartness embodies all-inclusive living.
Heritage Creek
Only five minutes away from downtown Simpsonville and 15 minutes from Five Forks, Heritage Creek is a small neighborhood close to some big amenities.
Heritage Creek homes were built by Crown and feature the Hunter Floor Plan and Craftsman accents. Unlike many home development companies, Crown left some large trees when developing Heritage Creek, so the neighborhood has fairly mature landscaping for its age. Families living in Heritage Creek often consider schools such as Bryson Elementary, Bryson Middle, and Hillcrest High School.
Heritage Creek provides its residents with a pool, playground, and multiple common areas. Just a five minute drive from Simpsonville, Heritage Creek residents have easy access to Main Street shopping and dining. A short walk from the community is Heritage Park, featuring six baseball/softball fields, playgrounds, picnic shelters, paved walking paths, and the Heritage Park Amphitheatre.
At Heritage Creek, you can have all the benefits of a quiet suburban neighborhood without sacrificing any convenience.
Hollingsworth Park at Verdae
Hollingsworth Park, like Hartness, has established neighborhoods for everything from townhomes to large multi-story estates in their community. Nestled between Woodruff and Verdae, Hollingsworth’s central location and proximity to Woodruff Road shopping and dining make it a popular choice for Upstate families.
Every neighborhood in Hollingsworth Park has been meticulously planned to appear aesthetically unique while maintaining an “old town” feel. Schools near Hollingsworth Park include Pelham Road Elementary, Beck International Academy, and J. L. Mann High School.
Amenities in Hollingsworth Park have been designed to be within a 10-minute walking distance of one another, or around a half-mile. Legacy Square houses the YMCA at Verdae, Stella’s Brasserie, and other boutiques and small businesses. Residents can also join the local golf club, The Preserve at Verdae. Finally, 20-acre Legacy Park contains water features, walking paths, and a playground. Inspired by New York City’s Central Park, Legacy Park is a key feature of the Hollingsworth Park community.
Hollingsworth Park’s central location and community amenities make it one of the premier neighborhoods in the Upstate.
Richmond Hills
For our final neighborhood highlight, we are heading north through downtown Greenville. Richmond Hills is conveniently located halfway between Greenville and Travelers Rest, a small town north of Greenville nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and directly across from Furman University.
Richmond Hills has medium to large single-family and mobile homes, many of which were built in the early 2000s. Richmond Hill schools include Armstrong Elementary, Berea Middle School, and Travelers Rest High School.
Richmond Hills is a short walk from Furman University, one of the most beautiful college campuses in the country, and nearly 13 miles of walking and biking trails.
If you want to live closer to the mountains but within driving distance of Greenville, jump on the opportunity to live in Richmond Hills! This area is growing quickly and will grow in value fast.
The Upstate has many amazing communities to offer its residents. Today we only covered a few, but if you are interested in finding the perfect home and neighborhood for your family, our talented team at Hamilton & Co. can help! Give us a call at 864-527-7685 and we’d be happy to set up a personalized community search, connect you with local resources, and more.
Some spots are just so good they don’t deserve to be kept secret.
From the best under-the-radar restaurants to the parks and trails that are literally off the beaten path to a small town that’s as close to idyllic Mayberry as you’ll find in these parts, Midlands residents shared their favorite hidden gems in the Columbia area and just beyond.
Take these ideas to plan your next lunch date or weekend outing.
Places to please your palate
Bierkeller Columbia pop-up beer gardens: Bierkeller is Columbi-ja’s nomadic brewery, the child of Scott Burgess, who lived nearly a decade in Germany. You’ve got to catch these traditional German brews at occasional pop-up events — sometimes at the Columbia Canal Park or at the Saluda Riverwalk. “It’s actual beer and food and fun on one of the most underutilized (and beautiful) places in the city,” hidden gems nominator Clair Hann said.
Follow Bierkeller on Facebook and Instagram to find out when and where upcoming pop-ups are planned.
Pro tip: You can actually order Bierkeller beer once a week for crowler pickup at Swamp Cabbage Brewery, 921 Brookwood Drive, Columbia. And coming sometime soon, Bierkeller plans to settle down and open a brewery of its own, the Post and Courier has reported. Further details have not yet been revealed.
No Name Deli: Its name is as unassuming as its humble building at the corner of Elmwood Avenue and Marion Street in Columbia. But the food here is not to be overlooked.
“Food is great, soup, cornbread, etc., and the staff is extra friendly,” nominator Coleman Catoe said. Some (including at least one editor at The State) might argue this longtime capital city gem is not so hidden, especially given the line at lunchtime. No Name has stood the test of time as an enduring lunchtime staple. Interestingly, it only recently began accepting credit and debit cards as payment.
As Catoe noted, “It’s been in business 30 years, so you know they do something right.”
Granby Grill: Opened in 2020, Granby Grill is a relative newcomer to the Columbia dining scene, compared to a long-timer like No Name Deli.
This restaurant’s nominator makes a bold claim: “The burgers are the best in Columbia.” Oh, really? Only one way to find out — visit this lunchtime-to-late-night spot in the redeveloped Granby Mill complex at 612 Whaley St. in Columbia.
Boca Grande Burritos: Another superlative assertion: “Hands-down the best burritos in town. They’re still new but deserve the spotlight!” said nominator Meredith Taylor.
Boca Grande has made a splash at 4525 Forest Drive, offering a robust selection of hefty-sized burritos. It looks like the secret might be out about this gem; Taylor recommends that you “go on a week night to beat the crowd!”
Manny’s Shaved Ice: Nominator Sandra Kay says go here for “the most yummy desserts & snacks. Strawberries & Cream is the simplest & most delicious sweet I’ve ever had. And the chicharon preparado is my favorite light lunch!”
Manny’s, indeed, has you covered for a variety of sweet shaved ice concoctions, shakes, smoothies and even some savory fare, including elote (Mexican street corn) and the aforementioned chicharron preparado (a crispy fried flour snack with toppings). Discover this hidden gem at 1228 Augusta Road in West Columbia.
Loveland Coffee Cafe: The Midlands’ caffeine game is strong, but the Loveland Coffee in Irmo stands out as a hidden gem “like a mini retreat there, hidden right off the main (road),” nominator Ann Jones said. What started with a crowdfunded drive-thru kiosk in 2012 turned into a full-fledged roastery by 2016, and in 2020 Loveland opened its brick-and-mortar cafe at 7475 Carlisle St. in Irmo. You can also swing by the drive-thru at 7001 St. Andrews Road.
If you love Loveland, then you might also love their local coffee-beer collaboration: Steel Hands Brewery’s popular coffee lager.
Brunch at NoMa Warehouse: Perhaps you’ve been to the new(ish) NoMa Warehouse at 2222 Sumter St. in Cottontown for the weekly Friday night NoMa Flea market. But apparently you’ve been missing out on the weekly Sunday brunch: “You can have authentic Mexican brunch while shopping from local artists, jewelry, clothes, plants,etc,” a nominator said.
Follow NoMa Warehouse on Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date on events planned there.
Peebles BBQ & Wings: “They have the best boneless wings and their mop sauce is *chefs kiss*!” nominator Peyton Robbins said.
Peebles recently doubled its footprint in Columbia, opening a new spot at 902 Gervais St. in the Vista. Of course, you can visit the original at 1332 Rosewood Drive (you’ll know it by the yellow painted building with the rooster mural).
The Other Store: The very definition of a hidden gem, The Other Store just may be responsible for the “best Salads and Sandwiches in town,” a nominator said. It might look like “just” a convenience store from the outside, but step inside to enjoy comforting lunch fare — even chicken bog!
You’ll find The Other Store at 4130 Bethel Church Road, where there’s also a “Starry Night” mural on the building, so that’s nice.
“The iced honey vanilla latte and the cinnamon brown sugar with oat milk are fabulous! But they also serve smoothies and danish!” a nominator said. “This is a traveling coffee trailer owned and run by Logan, whose dream as a little girl was to own her own coffee truck!”
You’ll find this traveling coffee trailer most often parked at 130 Highway 378 in Lexington (near the intersection with West Main Street) on weekday mornings, or you might catch them at a party or neighborhood event. Visit Nomad’s website, www.nomadcafeco.com, to book them for yourself.
Pontiac House of Pizza: Some might say these are the finest pies in Elgin, and perhaps beyond.
“Delicious Greek, Italian, American entrees, great staff and service,” a nominator said.
When you visit Pontiac House of Pizza at 10531 Two Notch Road, you might as well pop into another hidden gem next door, Ivy House Antique Mall at 10511 Two Notch.
Family Fresh Mex taqueria: Tacos, burritos, flautas, tortas — Family Fresh Mex has all that and more. And if you once loved taco night at The Whig, you may love that downtown Columbia’s newest taqueria is located right upstairs from the beloved underground bar.
“It’s cheap, it’s DELICIOUS, and it’s really close to where I work,” a nominator said.
You can find Family Fresh Mex at 1200 Main St., across the street from the State House.
Fire and Spice restaurant: You can get a Cuban sandwich, a Greek gyro and a Vietnamese bahn mi sub all in one place at Fire and Spice in Irmo.
“Super food,” a nominator said. See for yourself at 7971 North Woodrow St., Irmo.
Bonus: We wish we could give you more details about this hidden gem, but one nominator simply highlighted a “food truck that parks at the gas station and beer outlet on Augusta Road near the junction with Jarvis Klapman.”
“Amazing tacos, very authentic, street food like I would eat in Mexico,” nominator Lydia Pappas said.
If you find it, let us know how it is.
Enjoy nature, skip the crowds
South East Park: “60 acres of almost pure woods, fields and a pond that you can fish in. The tennis courts are an added bonus,” nominator John Hart said. The tennis courts, in fact, are the newest and largest among Columbia’s city-run parks.
Hart also praised the park’s walking paths and disc golf course. Enjoy them at 951 Hazelwood Road, Columbia.
Cayce Riverwalk chainsaw carvings: Nominator Ashley Hunter suggests a scavenger hunt to find all the clever pieces by local chainsaw artist Wade Geddings, who created a slew of “incredible” artworks carved into tree stumps and logs along the riverwalk. How many can you find? Keep your eyes peeled for a fox, a bear, an alligator and more. There are multiple entrances to the Cayce Riverwalk, including the main entrance at 201 Naples Ave.
W. Gordon Belser Arboretum: Nominator Whit Ashley describes this gem as “a true forest in the middle of an urban neighborhood. The Arboretum features amazing biodiversity, provides a buffer from busy city life, and preserves precious natural habitat, along with local culture and history.”
Belonging to the University of South Carolina, the W. Gordon Belser Arboretum encompasses 10 acres in Columbia’s Sherwood Forest neighborhood. There you’ll find 10 unique plant biomes, a waterfall, walking trails, a botanical garden and several exhibits.
Ashley notes that “until her recent passing, (the Arboretum) was maintained tirelessly by UofSC biology professor Dr. Patricia Decoursey. Dr. Decoursey deserves recognition for her work to protect and care for the Arboretum and all of the life within its ecosystem.”
Congaree Bluffs Heritage Preserve: Escape the city and head to Saint Matthews in Calhoun County to experience this 201-acre nature preserve bordering the Congaree River. According to the Blue Trails website, Congaree Bluffs offers a birds-eye view of Congaree National Park and is home to more than 100 species of trees, shrubs, and woody vines, and possibly hundreds of species of other plants.
“Quiet, fewer crowds than the riverwalks, beautiful view of the Congaree River,” a nominator said. What more could you ask for?
Place to plan a day trip
Downtown Ridgeway: Nominator Boyd Brown said, “If a mountain town or a Mayberry exists in the Midlands, it’s Ridgeway. Three local restaurants, one which doubles as a tea room; antique stores; a historic hardware store and just charm.”
About a half-hour drive from downtown Columbia, the small town of Ridgeway is known for its annual Pig on the Ridge barbecue festival, which the town claims to be “the biggest barbecue cookout in the state,” held the first weekend of November.
Sites to see and enjoy
University of South Carolina School of Music Recital Hall: Nominator Phillip Bush notes that this is a place to catch free concerts “almost every night” from September to April. Ahem: FREE CONCERTS!
“Aspiring talented musicians from around the US to South America to China, giving their all, instruments from strings to winds to piano, their recitals for their degrees all free to the general public, in an acoustically excellent 200-seat gem of a hall,” Bush wrote. “Columbia’s best-kept secret for high-quality, zero-cost entertainment.”
The recital hall is located at 813 Assembly St. in Columbia, and a calendar of concerts and recitals can be found on the School of Music’s website.
Arcade Mall: The historic Arcade Mall — built in 1912 as Columbia’s first shopping center — is somewhat hidden in plain sight right on Main Street in downtown Columbia. Inside, you’ll find Odd Bird Books, Swanson’s Deli (a big hit for weekday lunches), Ally & Eloise bakery, Ophidian tattoo parlor, His and Hers tailor shop, Stoner’s Pizza, artist Blue Sky’s studio and more. And soon, you’ll find Takosushi restaurant, which is opening in the spaces formerly occupied by Indah coffee shop and Pita Pit.
In one of the Arcade Mall’s most memorable uses, former owners built Columbia Down Under, which offered bars and restaurants in the basement from 1972 to 1974.
“A bit of Gilded Age splendor right here in Columbia. Neatest building downtown,” nominator Matt Bohn said.
The Arcade Mall is located at 1332 Main St.
Saluda River Factory ruins at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden: Along a trail leading from the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden to the Saluda River, you’ll find the blue granite stone walls and arch, all that remain of one of South Carolina’s first textile mills and, at one time, one of the South’s largest. The Saluda River Factory was built in the 1830s, burned during Gen. William T. Sherman’s occupation of Columbia, rebuilt after the Civil War and destroyed again by fire in 1884, according to Riverbanks.
“To the average visitor walking through the Botanical Gardens, you might miss the directional sign pointing to the natural foliage path leading to the ruins. The mill, prior to the Civil War, was one of the largest textile mills east of the Mississippi. Sherman knew of the importance of this mill to Columbia’s economy and ordered it to be burned. All that is left along the banks of the Saluda River are the granite ruins of this once thriving mill,” a nominator said.
Historic Columbia’s Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens: This historic home, built by wealthy merchant Ainsley Hall in 1818 and sold in 1823 to wealthy planter Wade Hampton I, is one of the capital city’s oldest remaining structures, according to Historic Columbia. “For the next 50 years, the estate grew to be Columbia’s grandest residence under the Hampton and Preston families and the many men, women and children they enslaved,” according to Historic Columbia.
“Beautiful gardens surround both of these significant house museums,” a nominator said. “A great place to take your lunch or walk through the gardens any time of the year. New event space opening there next month that is actually a greenhouse that will facilitate plant propagation for the gardens.”
A new feature has just opened at the site: A greenhouse and historically inspired gatehouse. The mansion and garden are located at 1615 Blanding St. and are open for tours Wednesday through Sunday.
Some secrets are meant to be kept
You don’t want the masses crowding up all your favorite spots. Can’t argue with that.
“(It’s) some place I wouldnt share with the rest of the world. Nobody else knows about it! Why are you asking your readers to help destroy these places?” one person said in response to The State’s recent hidden gems poll.
Another: “Why in the wide world of sports would anyone want to publicize a hidden gem. It would certainly (lose) its designation as a hidden gem when the masses converge on it!”
And another: “I cant tell U where it is, coz woont B secret anymore, but it is a nice zenful road w/beautiful folieage most times of the yr. Nice to drive down this hidden in plain site street. It can B peaceful & one might even see deer or snake crossing the road. I take pics. of the foliage. its not in Cola, but in the tri-city area. Maybe some can guess this place. Beautuful wild foliage.”
Understood; we’ll let you keep some gems to yourselves.
Sarah Ellis is the editor of The State’s statewide enterprise team covering Greenville, Charleston and tourism in Myrtle Beach. She is also a reporter who covers Columbia and Richland County. A graduate of the University of South Carolina, she has made South Carolina’s capital her home for the past decade. Since 2014, her work at The State has earned multiple awards from the S.C. Press Association, including top honors for short story writing and enterprise reporting.
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