Discover Columbia Spring 2012 by Gardener Guides

Extraordinary Food Shots! © Kathy Gardener, Photographer • 803-798-6960

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DISCOVER COLUMBIA SOUTH CAROLINA TM

Events

Events • Dining Things To Do

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BUYING or LEASING? Your One-Stop Shop For Sale & For Rent •

Jeff Slifer, 1SG(R) Life Member CCRA

Keith A. Salters, 1SG(R)

803-269-7735

803-419-5011 "Your Rental Home Expert"

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Get up to $3100 back at close! www.slifersellscolumbia.com

Members of the National Association of Independent Landlords

ACREAGE ACREAGE Rural NW Richland County & Lake Murray NE Lexington County - Chapin (Irmo, Chapin Side) $44,900 $59,900 WILLOW LAKE CHESTNUT HILLS 3 Bedroom; 2 Bathroom 3 Bedroom; 2 Bathroom 1690 square feet; Garage attached 1585 square feet; Garage attached $122,000 $132,900 CHAPIN LAKE CAROLINA 3 Bedroom; 2 Bathroom 4 Bedroom; 2.5 Bathroom 1100 square feet; Garage attached 1900 square feet; Garage attached $143,000 $156,000 JACOBS CREEK MARTINS GROVE 4 Bedroom; 3.5 Bathroom 4 Bedroom; 2.5 Bathroom 2391 square feet.; Garage attached 2660 square feet; Garage attached $180,000 $188,900 COURTNEY FARMS CAMDEN 3 Bedroom; 2.5 Bathroom 5 Bedroom; 4.5 Bathroom 2400 square feet; Garage attached 3546 square feet; Carport attached $268,000 $369,000 PLANTATION POINTE LAKE MURRAY ESTATES 4 Bedroom; 4 Bathroom 5 Bedroom; 3.5 Bathroom 3830 square feet; Garage attached 4200 square feet; Garage attached $428,000 $679,000

FOX RUN 4 Bedroom; 2.5 Bathroom 2334 square feet; Garage attached $100,000 CARRIAGE OAKS 4 Bedroom; 2.5 Bathroom 2160 square feet; Garage attached $140,000 CARDINAL PINES 4 Bedroom; 2.5 Bathroom 2400 square feet; Garage attached $172,000 WINCHESTER 3 Bedroom; 2.5 Bathroom 2572 square feet; Garage attached $189,900 TIMBERLAKE 6 Bedroom; 4 Bathroom 3750 square feet; Garage attached $372,500 CRYSTAL PINES 4 Bedroom; 3 Bathroom 4600 square feet; Garage attached $950,000

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WHAT MAKES

Life! SPECIAL IN GREATER COLUMBIA The Melton Memorial Observatory is one in a long history of USC observatories. Suggested and built in honor of USC President William Davis Melton, the observatory was completed in the spring of 1928 and has been serving the community and the school ever since. On clear Monday nights, the observatory is open to the public from 8-10 PM through March 11. After the time change back to Eastern Daylight Time, viewing hours will be 30 minutes after sunset and for two hours after that. Visit www.physics.sc.edu/~melton/skyinfo.html to see what's currently in the night sky! 1429 Greene Street. 803-777-4180.

Melton Observatory

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It's Back! On January 21, the South Carolina State Museum will bring back the Museum Road Show, "Winter Edition!" Local experts will be on hand to offer informal appraisals of fine art, textiles, military memorabilia, furniture, jewelery, and much more. Tickets are $15 for the first item ($12 for Museum members), $25 for two items ($20 for members), $30 for 3 items ($25 for members), and $35 for 4 items ($30 for members) with a limit of four items per person. 9:30 AM-4:30 PM in the Atrium. 301 Gervais Street. 803-898-4978. {www.southcarolinastatemuseum.org} SC State Museum

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Issues printed January, May and September. 90,000 copies printed and distributed each issue; 270,000 annual circulation. Subscribe to our weekly e-newsletters: This Week's Top Ten Things to Do and Weekday Therapy at www.hugerstreet.com Websites: www.hugerstreet.com; www.gardenerguides.com; www.visit-columbia.com; www.columbiascbestnewhomes.com 8

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Historical Note Whether you are passionate for preserved 18th century homes or intrigued by our country’s military history, or want to learn more about South Carolina, you’ll find something fascinating right here in the Greater Columbia area! Historic Columbia Foundation Trinity Cathedral Churchyard Follow the people, places, and progress of Buried under the ancient oaks and magnolias Columbians over three centuries within five of Trinity Cathedral’s Churchyard are some of downtown historic sites. Hear the stories of South Carolina’s most distinguished sons and nationally and regionally important people daughters. Final resting place of governors, whose lives during the earliest days of bishops, heroes of the Revolutionary and Civil settlement to the modern Civil Rights era Wars. 1100 Sumter Street. 803-771-7300. marked their special places in history. Learn Churchyard can be viewed at any time. how the city's diverse past is likely to influence african-american monument its future. www.historiccolumbia.org. The African-American Monument, the first 803-252-7742. 1616 Blanding Street of its kind on any of the nation’s statehouse grounds, was designed to recapture the rich history of African Americans and their contributions to the state of South Carolina. Located at Main & Gervais Streets on the East side of the State House. governor’s mansion complex South Carolina’s governors have lived here since 1868. Tour includes the state dining room, two drawing rooms, the library and the smaller Palmetto Dining Room, all furnished with period antiques. Two additional homes grace this lovely 9 acre complex. 800 Richland Street. 803-737-1710. Tours by reservation. scgovernorsmansion.org.

mckissick museum McKissick Museum is located at the heart of the historic Horseshoe on the Columbia campus of the University of South Carolina. In 1965, through the generosity of the estate of Bernard Mannes Baruch, the University received an extensive collection of 18th and early 19th century British silver. This collection, numbered in excess of 450 pieces, had been assembled in the early 20th century by Baruch's wife, Annie Griffen Baruch. 803-777-7251. Hours are Mon-Fri, 8:30am5pm and Saturday 11am-3pm. Free admission. www.cas.sc.edu/mcks.

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south carolina state house The history of South Carolina’s State House is as colorful as the state itself. Begun in 1851, the original architect was dismissed of duty and the structure dismantled due to defective materials. Work on a new structure was begun in 1855 and suspended in 1865 as Sherman’s Union Army swept through leaving its mark on Columbia and the State House. Completed in 1907, the copperdomed granite building today wears six bronze stars to mark hits from Sherman’s cannons. The Strom Thurmond Memorial is also located on the State House grounds. The building is open from 9 - 5, but closed on the weekends. Tours available. State House grounds are open 24/7. Located at Main & Gervais Streets. Call 803-734-2430 for more information. www.scstatehouse.gov south carolina state museum The South Carolina State Museum features four large floors filled with fascinating exhibits, many of them hands-on, telling the story of South Carolina through the disciplines of art, history, natural history and science/technology. The Great Charleston Earthquake: until April. Located at 301 Gervais Street. Open Tues-Sat 10am-5pm;

Sun 1pm-5pm. Admission. Call 803-898-4921 for more information. www.museum.state.sc.us The SC Confederate Relic Room & Military History Museum For over a century, the SC Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum's mission has been to collect and preserve the military history of this state. Columbia's oldest museum, the state's martial tradition from the Revolutionary War to the present War on Terror is presented. Visitors explore the military campaigns that South Carolinian soldiers have participated in over the past three hundred years. Through Fiery Trials: Religion in the Civil War, until May 12, 2012. 301 Gervais Street (State Museum Building) Call 803-737-8095. www.crr.sc.gov south carolina military museum This unique museum showcases our history from the first militia in 1670 to today's troops deployed in the War on Terror. The Air Guard wing of the museum tells the story beginning with the Berlin Airlift to the air attack on Baghdad. Hours are Tues-Sat 10am-4pm; Sun 1-5pm. Closed month of January. 803-806-4440. 1 National Guard Road. www.scguard.com

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past, present & future

African-American History of Columbia Would you like to learn more about how African-Americans played a part in the rich history of Columbia South Carolina? View slavery journals and manuscripts, or visit fascinating exhibits, restored homes, plantations and more-here in Greater Columbia and surrounding areas! African American Heritage Sites Self-Guided Walking Tour Historic Columbia Foundation 1616 Blanding Street • 803.252.7742 www.historiccolumbia.org

Showcases the home places, work places, and resting places of Columbia's African-American community. During the course of four centuries the city’s black community transformed itself from that of a predominately enslaved population to a society whose members overcame the restrictions of Jim Crow and charted the course of the Civil Rights era. Tour themes include Education, Historic Marker, Architecture, African-American History, Women's History, and Religion. Pick up your copy of this tour brochure in the Historic Columbia Foundation Museum Shop, located at the Robert Mills House. Open Tuesday - Saturday: 10am-4pm, and Sunday from 1pm-5pm. Other sites of note: MannSimons Site-Historically a collection of commercial and domestic spaces owned and operated by the same African-American family from at least 1843 until 1970. One house stands today. Modjeska Monteith Simkins House-Celebrated as the home of Mann-Simons Cottage. South Carolina's matriarch of Civil Historic Columbia Foundation Rights activists, who lived here from 1932 until her death in April 1992. Tours are available for groups of ten or more only. Big Apple-Built as the House of Peace synagogue in 1915, this building became a popular African-American nightclub operated by "Fat" Sam and "Big" Elliot Wright from 1936 until 1938. Here Columbia's black youth created the internationally famous "Big Apple" dance, named after the local hotspot in which it was born. Randolph Cemetery-One of Columbia’s oldest cemeteries, Randolph was established in 1872 by a group of black civic leaders. Located between the Potters Field to the west and Elmwood Cemetery to the east, this burying ground was named for the late black senator Benjamin 12

Franklin Randolph who served on the SC State Senate following the Civil War until his assassination in 1868. Randolph is the resting site of many of the state’s most prominent African-American leaders. A Step Back in Time Goodwill Plantation Off US 76 on Goodwill Rd 803.353.3799 www.goodwillplantation.com

Visit a national conservation and historic restoration model on 3,280 acres with 9 miles of frontage on the beautiful Wateree River. Two cabins remain on the property. Over 2,000 slaves were sent from other plantations to Goodwill to wait out the Civil War. Scheduled group tours only. Tours given on Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays. Call at least two to three weeks ahead of time. Tours last at least 4 hours. A Multitude of Generations South Caroliniana Library 910 Sumter St. • 803.777.3131 www.sc.edu/library/socar

The Caroliniana Library of the University of South Carolina contains information on African-Americans during and after slavery. Manuscripts, newspapers, journals, city directories, census and genealogical information, and other materials can be found here. Examples include: The Negro Travelers’ Green Book- A travel guide series published from 1936 to 1964 by Victor H. Green. It provided African-American motorists and tourists with the information necessary to board, dine, and sightsee comfortably and safely The Negro Travelers’ during the era of segregation. Armstrong Green Book. South Family Papers, 1900-1930- One of Caroliniana Library America's foremost early twentieth-century AfricanAmerican magic acts, consisting of J. Hartford Armstrong, his wife, Lille Belle Armstrong, and their daughter, Ellen Armstrong.

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one of six tracts in Lower Richland County purchased by the SC Land Commission for redistribution. It was then passed down to his wife, Harriet in 1879. After the deaths of Samuel Barber and Harriet Barber, their son John and his wife Allen University initially focused on training ministers and Mamie Holly lived in the house, where they raised eleven teachers. Founded in Cokesbury in 1870 as Payne Institute, children. Two of the original buildings from 1880 are still on dedicated to providing education to freed African-American location. Open for tours by appointment. slaves. Several of the district's buildings were restored using columbia cottage $2.9 million in funds obtained through the Historically Black zion baptist church Colleges and Universities Historic Building Restoration and African-American Education Allen University 1530 Harden Street â&#x20AC;˘ 803.376.5700 www.allenuniversity.edu

Preservation Act. Call to schedule a tour. Benedict College 1600 Harden Street â&#x20AC;˘ 803.705.4910 www.benedict.edu

Columbia Cottage 1328 Gadsden Street

This single-story, wood-frame residence reflects the Columbia Cottage style. Featuring a symmetrical facade, prominent gable, and double-pile, central hall plan, such houses Benedict College is the fourth largest private HBCU enjoyed popularity from the 1840s through the 1880s. By (Historically Black College or University) in the United States. the 1920s, the Washington Street corridor to the east of this Established in 1870 as Benedict Institute by the American structure had transitioned into one of two major black Baptist Home Mission Society, the school began with a focus business districts in the city center. Populated by businesses on educating ministers and teachers. Tours are available. such as the Victory Savings Bank, the North Carolina Mutual Building, and the photography studio of Richard Samuel A Home for History Roberts, this neighborhood flourished with Zion Baptist The Harriet Barber House Church as the western anchor. In 1928, the church purchased 116 Barberville Loop, Hopkins the residence at 1328 Gadsden Street. Although the site 803.695.7669 harrietbarberhouse.org returned to private hands soon after, this marks the The Barber House, according to beginning of the association that the church had with family tradition, was the building that remains today. The building is constructed ca. 1880. In 1872 currently undergoing rehabilitation, and once Samuel Barber, a former slave, complete, will serve as the education and purchased lot number 35, which administrative headquarters for Zion Baptist Church, contained forty-two and onelocated at 803 Washington Street in downtown www.harrietbarber.org half acres of the Hopkins Tract, Columbia.

Valentine’s Day Date Ideas Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse Flip over this magazine and check out the steak pictured on the back cover. (Seriously, do it.) It literally makes a steak-lover's mouth water! So, if you and your sweetie love seared-to-perfection beef, there are no words to convey anymore that that picture! Ruth's Chris offers a memorable dining experience that says, "special" in a big way. Call early for your Valentine's Day reservation! 803-216-6666. Or, reserve your table online at www.ruthschris.com. 924-A Senate Street ♥ Enjoy romantic favorites from movies, theatre, and opera at the USC Symphony Orchestra's Valentine's Day Program, "Amore" on February 14. www.music.sc.edu/events.html ♥ In the South, nothin' says love quite like the thrum of bluegrass. Twang out your feelings during Friday night Jam Sessions at Bill's Music Shop and Pickin' Parlor.

Liberty Tap Room & Grill With cozy booths in their dining room on Gervais Street, Liberty offers couples an intimate dining experience with fabulous food. From lowcountry dishes like She-Crab Soup and Shrimp & Grits, to fresh fish prepared to your liking, and sizzling steaks, Liberty will make you and your honey happy, indeed! Especially if you order the Bananas Foster Cheesecake-Unbelievable! 803-461-4677. www.libertytaproom.com 828 Gervais Street in the Vista

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♥ Enjoy an afternoon stroll together through USC's romantic Horseshoe and plan the adventures you'll have for a lifetime together. ♥ Nothing communicates devotion like shared passions. Channel your love into service for others and volunteer together! Get involved with Sustainable Carolina, United Way of the Midlands, or join the Light Brigade. www.lightthewaycolumbia.com

Pearlz Oyster Bar Pearlz Oyster Bar is a recent addition to the Vista, but is already a local favorite. With great dishes like Baked Oysters Rockefeller, a daily selection of fresh catch, and Mussels Fettucini, a better way to relax and enjoy a night out with your sweetheart is hard to find. Live music, great drinks, and an amazing staff are sure to please your valentine! 803-661-7741. www.pearlzoysterbar.com 936 Gervais St ♥ Love may, indeed, hurt. Ease the tension with a traditional full body massage, aroma therapy, essential oils, hot stones, and/or heated towels from Belladonnas licensed massage therapist. . http://belladonnasgifts.com ♥ Who says life's not like the movies? Recreate Audrey Hepburn and George Peppard's iconic kiss in the rain on the grounds of the beautiful State house! ♥ Rekindle your love with a romantic walk through Cayce Riverwalk. Hold each other and gaze out at the beauty of the river.

Inakaya Greater Columbia's most authentic Japanese sushi bar and restaurant allows sushi lovers to indulge their culinary desires. Start with a bowl of Edamame, a Rainbow Roll, and toast your love with Sake or Plum Wine. Inakaya boasts an intimate atmosphere with soft-spoken waitstaff. Two locations: 803-731-2538. 655 St. Andrews Road 803-699-2626. 224 O’Neil Court

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Camon Camon takes sushi presentation to a whole new level with the freshest seafood, a master sushi chef, an authentic Japanese menu, and an incomparable staff who will send your Valentine's over the top! From sashimi to tempura, from teriyaki to yakizakana, Camon offers something for everyone. 803-254-5400. www.camonsushi.com 1332 Assembly Street ♥ Bad rhyme or not, nothin' says lovin' like somethin' from the oven. Instead of breaking out the mixer, though, treat your sweetie to something fancy and playful from Cupcake in Columbia. www.freshcupcakes.com ♥ Enjoy at Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise aboard the Spirit of Lake Murray. www.spiritoflakemurray.com

Mudbones Swamp Shack Mudbones Swamp Shack, brand new to the Irmo area last fall, is now the go-to spot for Cajun, Creole, and Southern grubbin'! A Willie Nelson song, sweet tea drunk out of a mason jar, and now Mudbones: sure-fire ways to woo your honey in the Deep South! Choose from specialties like Jambalaye Pasta, Oysters on the Half Shell, and Seafood Etouffee! 803-749-3004. www.mudbonesswampshack.com. 7949 Broad River Road, Irmo. ♥ Begin the month of love with the timeless romance of “Romeo and Juliet,” presented February 3-4 by the Columbia City Ballet. www.koger.sc.edu/02cal/cityballet.html ♥ For a low-key evening, enjoy a picnic and a bottle of wine together. Finish the evening with a stroll down the West Columbia Riverwalk as the sun sets. www.scgreatoutdoors.com/parkwestcolumbiariverwalk.html

Virtu Virtu on Devine Street in Shandon offers Valentines a modern take on tapas style cuisine and dinner entrees from around the world paired with a selection of wide selection of wine, craft beer, and spirits. Menu offerings include: Goat Cheese Bruschetta, Beef Tenderloin Medallions served with a Dijon Peppercorn Sauce, and Carmel Toffee Crunch Cheesecake. An elegant and refreshing Valentine’s Day! 803-376-8888. www.virtucolumbia.com 2406 Devine Street ♥ Not up for elaborate, ritualized love? Stop by the Backpacker and pick up all the supplies you’ll need for dinner and dancing--under the stars! Roughing it doesn’t have to be all that rough with sleeping bags, tents, and the right cookware! http://backpackerqualitygear.com ♥ Enjoy Columbia’s rich cultural scene together and view Masterpieces of the Hudson River School Painters at Columbia Museum of Art. www.columbiamuseum.org ♥ Who says games are for kids? Play an old favorite or learn a new game with your honey every Tuesday evening during Game Night for grownups at Toys & Games, Etc. www.facebook.com/pages/Toys-Games-Etc. 803-732-3242. 16

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Columbo’s Italian Eatery and Prime Steaks Nestled in the DoubleTree Hilton, is a casually intimate setting perfect for a romantic dinner for two. Unique Italian dishes like Chicken Scallopini, Meyer’s Natural Angus Beef Filet or New York Strip, and sweet endings like their Warm Chocolate Dome Cake will make this Valentine’s celebration hard to beat! 803-744-2200. Or, reserve your table by emailing reservations@columbos.net. 2100 Bush River Road

Mr. Friendly’s/Solstice kitchen and Cellar on Greene Ricky Mollohan always makes sure Valentine's Day at his establishments is an unparalleled pleasure. Whether you choose Solstice Kitchen in Northeast Columbia (841 Sparkleberry Lane, 803-788-6966, www.solsticekitchen.com) Mr. Friendly's downtown (2001 Green Street, 803-254-7828, www.mrfriendlys.com), or Cellar on Greene downtown (2001 Green Street, 803-343-3303, www.cellarongreene.com), their Valentine's Special and excellent wine pairings will delight and woo your sweetheart and guarantee one of the most romantic evenings of your lives together.

Miyo's and M For the last fifteen years, the numerous Miyo's and M locations throughout Greater Columbia have served the freshest and finest Asian cuisine. Ditch the ordinary and ensure a refined, non tradtional Valentine's evening with dishes like their Dynamite Roll, Love Boat sampler, Edamame, Hong Kong Style Ginger Salmon. Visit www.miyos.com to find one of their numerous locations for your special night! www.miyos.com

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of art

The Columbia Museum of Art is a cultural gem located at Main and Hampton Streets, in downtown Columbia. The museum building is a captivating architectural conversion - transformed from an urban department store and now a sleek and airy, light-filled space with 25 galleries. The permanent collection includes world-class examples of the Italian Renaissance, Baroque Art, Impressionism and Modern Art. Admission. Hours are Tuesdays - Fridays 11:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.; First Friday of every month 11:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. (until 5:00 p.m. in December); Saturdays 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Sundays noon -5:00 p.m. Closed Mondays and major holidays. www.columbiamuseum.org. 803-799-2810.

MARTIN JOHNSON HEADE, Study of an Orchid, 1872, Oil on canvas 18x 23in.(45.7x58.4cm), The Robert L. Stuart Collection, S-112

Nature and the Grand American Vision: Masterpieces of the Hudson River School Painters. Now through April 1, 2012. Forty-five magnificent paintings from the rich collection of the New York Historical Society will be on view at the Columbia Museum of Art in a major traveling exhibition. Though individual works are very seldom loaned, these iconic works of 19th-century landscape painting are traveling on a national tour for the first time and are circulating to four museums around the country as part of the Historical Society’s traveling exhibitions program, Sharing a National Treasure. The Columbia Museum of Art is the only stop in the Southeast.

Special Art Class Textures & Techniques Nothing inspires the creative soul like the beauty of spring. During this special two-day workshop, "Exploring Watercolor Textures & Techniques," participants will learn to enhance their painting using monotype printing, collage (including "found" materials), gouache, mixed media, and watercolor. Instructor Nancy Pryor Grills will supply some materials, as well as a complete supply list upon request. A $75 fee includes both days, Thursday, February 9 and Friday, February 10 from 1 PM-4 PM. The class is limited to ten participants, so contact Ms. Grills (Ngrills@sc.rr.com) or Ms. Oliver (bloliver@columbiasc.net) soon! Edisto Discovery Park, Columbia. 18

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Keenan Fountain

great works

Columbia Museum of Art

spring 2012

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WHAT MAKES

Life! SPECIAL IN GREATERâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;COLUMBIA

Shuckin' on the Shoals! February 26, 2012

Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission

"Shuckin' on the Shoals" is a fundraiser for the Saluda Shoals Foundation and a great opportunity to have fun and support a park that gives back to the community all year long. The oyster roast is from 4-8PM at Saluda Shoals Park. The cost is $35 per person or $60 per couple, which includes food and beverage. Beer, wine, oysters, and chili will be served throughout the evening. So, grab your sweetie and enjoy a fun night for a great cause! 5605 Bush River Road. 803-731-5208. {www.saludashoalsfoundation.org}

Special Tuesdays January thru April!

S..to ...... ....r..ie ..s....& .....

Crafts!

Courtesy of Swansea Library

The Swansea location of the Lexington County Public Library System invites you to take part in their "Special Tuesday" program this spring! Join them for a story and craft on: January 17-Martin Luther King, Jr. Day; February 14-Valentine's Day; March 13-St. Patrick's Day; April 3Easter! All ages are welcome to attend these events, all held at 4 PM in the Swansea location Meeting Room. 199 North Lawrence Avenue, Swansea. 803-785-3519. www.lex.lib.sc.us 20

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Looking for Work?

Looking for Workers?

The Midlands Workforce Development Board is dedicated to helping individuals gain employment, upgrade their skills and advance their careers. The Midlands Workforce Centers have the tools and expertise to assist you in determining what jobs match your skills and interests. • WorkKeys® Assessments • Career Counseling & Exploration • Job Readiness Skill Training • Resume Preparation {www.midlandsworkforce.org}

It is the goal of the Midlands Workforce Development Board to make it as simple as possible for your business to find well-trained, highly qualified employees. Our Business services include: • WorkKeys® Job Profiling Analysis • WorkKeys® Skill Assessments • Incumbent Worker Training • On-The-Job Training {www.midlandsworkforce.org}

Central Midlands Council of Governments’ WIA funded activities afford equal opportunity to the public. Auxiliary aids and services are available to individuals with disabilities upon request. Speech or hearing-impaired individuals may use TTY Relay Service by dialing 711

6th Annual

Riverwalk Festival! April 21st from 2-9PM. What began as a small, local effort to feature area groups has grown into a respected annual event bringing high-caliber headliners to the area, offering a spotlight for the Southeast's hidden musical treasures, and an opportunity for local acts to showcase their ability. The festival will be held at the City of West Columbia's Riverwalk Amphitheater. The event is completely FREE, sponsored by local businesses and organizations, totally handicapped accessible, and dog-friendly! Corner of Meeting Street and Alexander Road, West Columbia, at Gervais Street Bridge. 803-939-8608. www.riverwalkmusic.com

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2011 Riverwalk Music Festival

WHAT MAKES

Life! SPECIAL IN GREATER COLUMBIA

Always a Southern Favorite! March 24th from 11am-3pm. Barbeque is serious business in South Carolina. Almost everyone has a secret recipe and everyone has an opinion. So, tie on a bib, unbutton your top button, and prepare for fine cuisine, Southern-style! At Saluda Shoals Park, barbecue chefs from all over the state will compete to see whose culinary skill provides the most delicious, fingerlicking barbecue in the state at "Pickin' & Piggin'"! Tickets are required for this event, so call Saluda Shoals and get ready to pig out on this Carolina favorite. 5605 Bush River Road. Call 803-731-5208 for more info. www.icrc.net.

$1 Deal!

Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission

On the third Sunday of every month, the Historic Columbia Foundation is extending $1entry to either the Robert Mills House, the Hampton-Preston Mansion, or the Mann-Simons Cottage to residents of Richland and Lexington counties! Take advantage of this great opportunity to view three of Columbia's most diligently preserved historic houses! 1616 Blanding Street. Call 803-252-1770. {www.historiccolumbia.org/site/calendar}

Robert Mills House, Courtesy of Historic Columbia Foundation

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Frankie’s Fun Park in Columbia serves up great rides, great food and great times! Go-Karts, Miniature Golf, Bumper Boats, Amusement Rides, Laser Tag, Batting Cages and an awesome Arcade are part of our mega mix of fun! It’s pedal to the metal fun on our Indy style Road Course! Super straight-a-ways and hairpin curves await you! Located at 140 Parkridge Drive. Take the Harbison Boulevard exit-Exit 103 off I-26. Turn left onto Harbison Blvd. Turn left onto Parkridge Drive. Open Monday-Saturday from 10am-midnight and Sunday from noon until midnight. Open year-round, but call for specific hours of operation as attractions and times vary. 803.781.2342. Three different island style Miniature Golf Courses test your skill! Play your way through 18 unique, challenging holes in a tropical setting! 803.781.2342. 140 Parkridge Road. {www.frankiesfunpark.com}.

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WHAT MAKES

Life! SPECIAL

FOR KIDS

{16th Annual Storytelling Festival}

on Once Up .. A Time.

Why we love it: Looking for a non-traditional way to interest your child in literature? The 16th Annual Storytelling Festival will feature tales from around the world told by a variety of storytellers. Come join the Cayce-West Columbia location of the Lexington County Public Library System for a fun-filled experience of stories and songs! All ages are welcome to the event, beginning at 2 PM in the Meeting Room. 1500 Augusta Road, West Columbia. 803-794-6791, ext 5. {www.lex.lib.sc.us}

Join the Birthday Club!

The Little Gym

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For 35 years, The Little Gym has been all about training your little tyke physically, mentally, and socially with fun, constructive activites. Now, they're in the business of making your little one's birthday easy for you and a blast for her/him! Join the Birthday Club and receive $15 off an Awesome Birthday Bash at The Little Gym, plus other exclusive Birthday Club coupons and offers. And, attend the 2 Birthday Club parties held during the year, one in the spring and one in the fall! 2005 North Beltline Boulevard. 803-738-1115. 5347 Sunset Blvd. Suite C in Lexington. 803-951-7235 {thelittlegym.com}

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WHAT MAKES

Life! SPECIAL

FOR KIDS

YMCA

Pass It Along! Join the Kids Club! Wherever you are in Greater Columbia, the YMCA is working hard to ensure your kids enjoy every last drop of spring! If you're in Northeast Columbia, why not look into the Deep Sea Discovery for your aspiring little diver? Join the Kids' Club and the Deep Sea Crew will inspire their curiosity with fun games and activities! Check the website for rates, dates, and times. (803-451-8439) Live over in Lexington? Well, your rising K5-2nd graders are invited to the Mighty Might Overnight Excursion! Take advantage of this great opportunity for little campers held every third Friday of every other month! (803-3593376) Your digs downtown? Your child age 9 and up can learn the fundamental footwork and blade actions of fencing! Check the website for rates, dates, and times. (803-799-9187) {www.columbiaymca.org}

It’s an EdVenture!

This hands-on learning center is designed to enrich the lives of children, families, and teachers through hands-on learning, exhibits, and programs. Visit eight galleries, two unique resource centers, the world's largest child, and two new permanent exhibits! Wags and Whiskers allows children to take on the role of pet owner, veterinarian, or groomer and emphasizes responsible pet care. Through simulated body scans, interaction with 3D models, and analysis of the human body, Body Detectives will explain the mysteries of how our bodies work! Open Tuesday-Saturday 9 AM-5 PM, Sunday noon-5 PM. Closed Mondays through Memorial Day. 211 Gervais Street. 803-779-3100. www.edventure.org

It’s Fun at Jellystone Park! Whether you're waiting out the winter or ready for Spring to be sprung, Jellystone Park at Riverbottom Farms is the perfect place to stop! Waking of the Bears: March 30-April 1. Wake up Yogi Bear & Boo Boo, then enjoy Breakfast with the Bear! Easter Weekend: April 13-14. Check the website for a full schedule! Anything Glows Weekend: April 13-14. Stop by and see the Glow and Light Up Parade, with prizes for the best decorated cart or bike! Earth Day Celebration: April 20-22. Get your green on with Leave No Trace activities and a Nature Walk with Boo Boo! Call 803-568-4182 for reservations or visit riverbottomfarms.com for a full schedule and more info! Photo by: Jellystone ParkTM at River Bottom Farms

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Northwest This area is comprised of places like Irmo, St Andrews, Harbison and Ballentine. Great schools and convenience to I-26. Lexington • Richland School District Five

North Home to Columbia College as well as older neighborhoods, this part of Columbia is undergoing renewal projects including beautification and park enhancements. Richland School District One

Blythewood Known for its horse farms, rural beauty, good schools and convenience to I-77, Blythewood is popular with familes and those seeking an idyllic setting. Richland School District Two

Northeast This area of the Midlands is popular with families for its Downtown excellent schools and its Older neighborhoods where recreational resources. This homes with character are maintained by those who love area is near Fort Jackson and older architecture stand beside military families are fond of this buildings of modern design for area. Richland School District Two those looking for an upscale stylish intown residence. East Richland School District Charming established One neighborhoods with mature Lexington trees and winding lanes, this is West Metro This town just west of Columbia’s first suburban area. Cayce, West Columbia and Columbia is the fastest developing area and is popular Springdale make up this area Shandon, Forest Acres, Rosewood and Lake Katherine across the river from with families for its schools are located here. Absolutely downtown Columbia. Older and small town charms. gorgeous in the spring. neighborhoods built from the Lexington School District Richland School District One 1940’s and new homes too. One Lexington School District Two Lake Murray 50,000 acre Lake Murray reaches into four counties and is minutes from Chapin and Lexington. 8000 homes front the lake. Lexington • Richland School District Five & Lexington School District One

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WHAT MAKES

Life! SPECIAL IN BLYTHEWOOD

Richland County Public Library

Special Programs

Climbing the Family Tree! Ever look through that old picture album and ask "Who is that?!" Now, you can find out whether it's Aunt Jane, Cousin Mae, or weird Uncle Tony! Join the Walker Local History Room Manager, Debbie Bloom, (aka the Dead Librarian!) at the Richland County Public Library system's Blythewood location for her presentation, "Read All About It: Using Online Historical Newspapers for Geneaolgical Research." For adults.

Roll Up Your Sleeves and Pull Out Your Gloves! Picnics are nice and sundresses are pretty, but watching Creation unfold all over again is the best part of the coming Spring! Join the Richland County Public Library system's Blythewood location for their "Garden Like a Master" program and learn how to get the most from your own front yard! Join SC Midlands Master Gardeners to learn the basics of "Pruning" (10:30-11:15 AM, March 10) and "Warm-Season Vegetables" (10:30-11:15 AM, April 14). For adults. To register for either program, call the library at 803-691-9806. 218 McNulty Road, Blythewood. {www.richland.lib.sc.us/blythewood/home}

sing the praises! Richland School District Two

It's time to sing the praises of Richland County School Distric t 2! The Blythewood High School choir, und er Don Kirkendol's direction, will partic ipate in the world premiere performanc e of Karl Jenkins' "Peacemakers" on the Distinguished Concerts International New York Concert Series at Carnegie Hall on Monday, January 16 in New York City! Also, Westwood High Sc hool will open this August in Blythewo od-plans include a football stadium. {www .richland2.o

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WHAT MAKES

Life! SPECIAL IN

NORTHEAST COLUMBIA

Earth Fair at Saluda Shoals Park is a great opportunity to get out, get active, and get educated! The “Tour de Lake” bike ride around Lake Murray begins at 7:30 AM; 5K trail run & 1 mile Kids Fun Run & family bike ride in the park at 8:30 AM. Music, entertainment, and exhibits will begin at 1PM. Ecofriendly activities throughout the day. Admission and parking fees do apply. 5605 Bush River Road. 803-731-5208. www.icrc.net

Earth Fair!

April 21st

Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission

Valentine!'s drop

We all love our children, but the pitter-patter of small feet does little to engender the grand romance everyone needs once in a while. On Saturday, February 11, put on your best heels for him, suit up for her, corral the kiddos, and drop them off at the Columbia YMCA's Jeep Rogers location! From 5-10 PM, ages 6 weeks-14 years can hang out at the Y while you and your honey get your groove back. Members: $20. Non-Members: $45. 900 Lake Carolina Drive. 803-451-8439. {columbiaymca.org/locations/jeep}

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WHAT MAKES

Life! SPECIAL IN LAKE MURRAY Richland County Public Library

Bookin' It at Ballentine! The Ballentine branch of the Richland County Public Library System, known as The Link, hosts a book club for adults that meets the last Wednesday of the month at 6:30pm. Upcoming readsJanuary: Shanghai Girls by Lisa See; February: Saints at the River by Ron Rash; March: The Life of Pi by Yann Martel. To sign up, call 803-781-5026. 1321 Dutch Fork Road, Ballentine. {richland.lib.sc.us/ballentine/home}

Let's Celebrate... All Aboard! Do you have something to celebrate? Do it in style aboard the beautiful Spirit of Lake Murray. Imagine your guests stepping into a truly unique experience one that every member of your party will long remember. The Spirit is perfect for military promotion celebrations, retirement parties, corporate meetings, customer-appreciation functions, family reunions, and of course, for the most wonderful wedding | wedding receptions! Now offering off-site parking and shuttle service. Contact Ken or Andrew at 803-730-3044. www.spiritoflakemurray.com

Spirit of Lake Murra

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Personal Mobile Computing Initiative! This will be the first full semester during which even more of Lexington County School District One's students will benefit from their Personal Mobile Computing Lexington County School District One Initiative! Back in November 2011, the district began issuing mobile devices to equip students with the digital competence needed in an increasingly technology-centered world. Students at district high schools can now access the Internet and the district's Learning Management system 24-hoursa-day throughout the school year! Students can use these devices to turn in assignments, complete research, and access applications designed to enhance their studies! www.lexington1.net

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WHAT MAKES

Life! SPECIAL IN DOWNTOWN COLUMBIA sage sent "Respect, Don't Bully!" was the mes e class grad first ll's Shu y by music teacher And nal origi r thei in ry enta Elem me at H. B. Rha o vide ic anti-bullying rap/song and mus Anti l ona produced last fall. Shown at the Nati the DC, ton, Bullying Summit in Washing n year olds precious voices of six and seve a bully, ning defi by sage sent a timely mes king to spea ils, enta ing bully t describing wha ing urag enco the effects on those bullied, and turn and d" bullied kids to "seek a helping han one.org to an adult for help. www.richland

"Respect, Don't Bully!"

richlandone.org

{Chili Cook-Off !} Why we love it: Few things are as serious as barbeque in the South. But chili is one of them! Chili lovers are invited to experience the tastes and smells of some of Columbia's most creative chili recipes at the Palladium Society's 14th Annual Chili Cook-Off! There will be local celebrities and chefs on hand to judge, live music, and prizes for the winners. The event will be held at the Ellison Building at the SC State Fairgrounds on February 25 from 5 PM-8 PM. Tickets include admission, chili tastings, and adult beverages. 1616 Blanding Street. 803-2521770. {www.historiccolumbia.org/site/calendar}

y 25, Febr uar 2012!

Historic Columbia Foundation

A(ugusta) Baker's Dozen:

A Celebration of Stories Don't miss the Richland County Public Library system's annual storytelling festival on Friday, April 13 at the main library! This year's event will feature Brenda Wong Aoki, an internationally known storyteller. Ms. Aoki's work blends Japanese traditional theater with contemporary story. She has been honored three times with fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts and is considered one of America's foremost storytellers. The US Congress, the State of California, the City of San Francisco, and the Japanese government have all commissioned her award-winning stories. 1431 Assembly Street. 803- 799-9084. {www.richland.lib.sc.us/main/home} Richland County Public Library

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Published 2012. © Gardener Publications LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication is prohibited except by written permission of Gardener Publications LLC. Phone: (803) 798-6960. www.gardenerguides.com

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VILLAGE AT SANDHILL

his C.

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POINTS OF INTEREST

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

Carolina Coliseum Columbia Fire Dept. Museum Columbia Museum of Art Columbia Riverfront Park & Historic Canal Columbia Marionette Theatre Finlay Park First Baptist Church Governor’s Green/SC Governor’s Mansion Granby Park Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce

11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18.

Hampton-Preston Mansion Koger Center for the Arts Mann-Simons Cottage Memorial Park McKissick Museum Modjeska-Simpkins House Riverbanks Zoo & Garden Richland Co. Public Library

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19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27.

Robert Mills House SC State Library SC State Museum/Confederate Relic Room Township Auditorium Trinity Episcopal Cathedral Tunnelvision Woodrow Wilson Boyhood Home USC Visitor Center Edventure Children’s Museum

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WHAT MAKES

Life! SPECIAL IN GREATER COLUMBIA

-thon! Flashing

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Lights!

Nothing feels better than letting loose and moving to the music! So, turn out the lights and GLOW at Columbia YMCA's Northwest location's two-hour Black Light Zumbathon! Upbeat music will make your body move, and you'll have the time of your life! Participants are encouraged to wear white, as black lights will be used. All ages 10+ are welcome to come out, work out, and hang out in February and May! For exact dates and times, check out columbiaymca.org/locations/northwest. 1501 Kennerly Road, Irmo, SC. 803-407-8007.

The Irmo location of the Lexington County Public Library System invites you to take part in their "Saturday Specials" program this spring! Come enjoy fun-filled Saturday morning puppet shows performed by The Puppet Playhouse! All ages are welcome to attend these events, held at 10:30 AM in the Meeting Room. To find out specific dates and times, check {www.lex.lib.sc.us}. 6251 St. Andrews Road. 803-798-7880, ext 3.

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Saturday Specials! Lexington County Public Library

WHAT MAKES

Life! SPECIAL IN GREATER COLUMBIA Belladonnas

Moving Towards Tranquility In this fast-paced world, there are few places truly dedicated to helping you pursue personal peace. Belladonnas is just such a place. Though many workshops are offered, one of the most soothing tools on your personal journey can be yoga or meditation. A Kundalini Yoga class occurs every Thursday at 7 PM and every Saturday at 8 AM. Meditation is the first Friday of every month at 7 PM. Check out their website for costs of each session and information on additional workshops and on going classes! 612 Saint Andrews Road ~ Ashland Park Shopping Center. 803-765-0450 and www.belladonnasgifts.com

Centers of Advanced Study When school closes this May, Lexington County School District One students will have reaped the benefit of several new Centers of Advanced Study opened in August 2011. These centers will have provided a year of studies in: advanced agribusiness research; advanced science, technology, engineering, and mathematics studies; public health and advanced medical studies; and world languages and international business. Soon, students will be able to study sustainable design; law and global policy development; or multi-media arts, design, and production! {www.lexington1.net}

Lexington County School District One

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USC Dance Company 803-777-5112 www.cas.sc.edu/ Carolina Ballet Breaking Ground: Feb 8-11 at Drayton Hall 803-771-6303 www.carolinaballet.net Theatre. Ballet Stars of New York: Mostly Mozart & Friends: Feb 10-12 at CMFA Mar 23 at Koger Center for the Arts. Art Space on Pulaski St. Giselle: Apr 14-15 Cinderella: Apr 20-21 at Koger. Student at Township Auditorium on Taylor St. Choreography Showcase: Apr 20-21 at Koger.

DANCE

Columbia City Ballet 803-799-7605 www.columbiacityballet.com Romeo and Juliet Feb 3-4. Sleeping Beauty: Mar 9-10 at Koger Center for the Arts Assembly St. Columbia Classical Ballet 803-252-9112 www.columbiaclassicalballet.org Lifechance "Gala of the Stars": Jan 21 at Koger Center for the Arts on Assembly St. Le Corsaire (The Pirate): Mar 2 at Koger.

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USC Dance Conservatory USC Dance Conservatory in Concert: Apr 2021 at Koger Center for the Arts.

MUSIC Lake Murray Symphony 803-400-3540. www.lmso.org Sunday Concert Series: The Joy of Dance: Feb 19 at Harbison Theater at Midlands Tech, 7300 College St, Irmo.

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South Carolina Philharmonic 803- 771.7937 www.scphilharmonic.com Soundscapes: Jan 14 at Koger Center for the Arts on Assembly Street. Love Songs: Feb 11 at Koger. Mother Russia: March 24 at Koger. Ode to Joy: Apr 28 at Koger.

Music Recital Hall, 813 Assembly St. Left Bank Big Band Concert: Apr 10 in USC School of Music Recital Hall, 813 Assembly St.

Symphony Orchestra & Choirs: Defiant Requiem & the Verdi Requiem: Apr 15 at University of South Carolina School of Music Koger Center for the Arts on Assembly St. 803-777-7000 www.music.sc.edu/ Too many events to list all - check website. Carolina Alive Vocal Jazz Ensemble Concert: Apr 18 in USC School of Music Recital Hall, Southern Exposure New Music Series: Jan 21 813 Assembly St. (Exposed Wiring IV with Odd Appetite ) & Feb 29 (Imani Woodwind Quintet) in USC School An Evening of Chamber Music: Apr 19 in USC of Music Recital Hall, 813 Assembly St. School of Music Recital Hall, 813 Assembly St. Chamber Innovista Concert Series: Jan 22 & Apr 15 in USC School of Music Recital Hall, Symphonic Winds on the Horseshoe: Apr 22 813 Assembly St. in USC Horseshoe.

Gospel Choir Spring Concert: Feb 7 in USC School of Music Recital Hall, 813 Assembly St.

THEATRE

Chapin Community Theatre 803-240-8544 www.chapintheatre.org/ Symphony Orchestra: Amore: Feb 14 at Rumors: Mar 9-24 Harbison Theater at Koger Center for the Arts on Assembly Street. Midlands Tech, 7300 College St, Irmo. Percussion Ensemble Concert: Mar 26 in USC School of Music Recital Hall, 813 Assembly St. Opera at USC: An Evening of One Acts: Rita and Pepito: Mar 31, Apr in USC School of

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Columbia Children's Theatre 803-691-4548 www.columbiachildrenstheatre.com 3400 Forest Drive, Forest Acres Disney's Beauty and the Beast Junior: Feb 2-5. Pinkalicious the Musical: Feb

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enough for both swindlers. So, they make a deal- the first one to extract $50,000 from a young female heiress wins. The other must Theatre South Carolina leave town. 803-777-4288 www.cas.sc.edu/THEA Alfred Hitchcock's The 39 Steps: Mar 9-24 Present Laughter: Feb 17-25 at Longstreet Theatre, 1300 Greene St. Macbeth: Apr 14- Town's offering is related to Alfred Hitchcock's 1935 suspense-filled 22 at Drayton Hall, 1214 College St. classic, with some surprises of its own. Undergraduate Original Works: Feb 21-26 at Lab Theatre, 1400 Wheat St. Broken Glass: Audiences will appreciate allusions to other Hitchcock films including Rear Mar 29-Apr 1 at Lab Theatre, 1400 Wheat St.; Twelfth Night, or What You Will: Apr 19- Window, Psycho and North by Northwest. One actor plays the hero, one 22 at Lab Theatre, 1400 Wheat St. actress plays the three women with whom he has romantic entanglements, and Featured Theatre: Town Theatre two other actors play the remaining 803-799-2510. www.towntheatre.com personalities, from heroes, villains, men, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels: Jan 20-Feb 4 This play centers on two con men living on women, and children, to the occasional inanimate object. You'll be the French Riviera. The first, suave and "thrilled" with lightening-fast sophisticated, makes his living by talking changes and special effects in this unique rich ladies out of their money. The other, a theatre farce! small-time crook, swindles women by waking their compassion with fabricated Peter Pan: Mar 31-Apr 1 stories about his grandmother's failing You'll be a kid again when Town's Youth health. They soon discover that the town isn't big 10-19. Rumpelstiltskin: April 13-22.

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Program's Peter Pan and Tinker Bell carry you off to the enchanted Neverland. There, you will find all the beloved characters of this classic adventure: Captain Hook, the Lost Boys, Pirates, Tiger Lily, and the Mermaids of the Lagoon. So, follow the second star to the right and straight on to Town Theatre for an adventure you'll never forget! Featured Theatre: Trustus Theatre 803.254.9732. www.trustus.org Spring Awakening: Now through Jan 21 Winner of 8 TONY Awards, including BEST MUSICAL, SPRING AWAKENING celebrates the unforgettable journey from youth to adulthood with a power, poignancy and passion that you will never forget. Amazons and Their Men: Jan 26-Feb 4 The Frau used to direct beautiful films for a fascist government. Now she's trying to make a film that's simply beautiful. But when telegrams start to arrive from the Minister of Propaganda, it becomes impossible for the Frau to ignore the real war outside her sound stage. Amazons and Their Men is a darkly comedic look at the role of artists during wartime inspired by the life and work of Leni Riefenstahl.

theatrical convention. Stew brings us the story of a young bohemian who charts a course for "the real" through sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll. Loaded with soulful lyrics and overflowing with passion, the show takes us from black middle-class America to Amsterdam, Berlin and beyond. A Behanding In Spokane: Apr 19-28 Carmichael has been searching for his missing left hand for almost half a century. Enter two bickering lovebirds with a hand to sell, a hotel clerk with an aversion to gunfire, and we're set for an hilarious roller coaster of love, hate, desperation and hope. At 520 Lady St. in Downtown Columbia Village Square Theatre 803-359-1436 villagesquaretheatre.com The King and I: Feb 17-Mar 4. Snow White: April 26-May 6 At 105 Caughman Road in Lexington SC Workshop Theatre of SC 803-799-6551. www.workshoptheatre.com john & jen: Jan 13-28. Cat On a Hot Tin Roof: Mar 16-31. 1136 Bull Street

Gem of the Ocean: Feb 10-Mar 3 Set in 1904, August Wilson's Gem of the Ocean begins on the eve of Aunt Esther's 287th birthday. When Citizen Barlow comes to her Pittsburg's Hill District home seeking asylum, she sets him off on a spiritual journey to find a city in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Gem of the Ocean is the ninth work in Wilson's ten-play cycle that has recorded the American Black experience and helped to define generations. Gem of the Ocean will leave you moved and inspired.

Now Open!

Passing Strange: Mar 23-Apr 14 From singer-songwriter and performance artist Stew comes "Passing Strange", a daring musical that takes you on a journey across boundaries of place, identity and ÂŠ

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malls and centers Columbia Place - Northeast Columbia’s mall is the largest mall in the area. Over 100 stores and eateries, an 8-screen movie theater, Columbia Place is located on the corner of Two Notch Road and Parklane Road. Easily reached from I-77 or I-20. Columbiana Centre - Northwest Columbia residents are served by this large shopping mall anchored by four department stores. The mall is located at the Harbison exit 102 off I-26.

Burlington Coat Factory, department stores, over 40 specialty stores and a 14-screen movie theater. Services available at Customer Service include Gift Certificates starting at $10, good at all stores, Gift Wrapping, Stroller & Wheelchair Rentals, and more. Take the Bush River Road exit off I-26 or the Broad River Road exit off I-20. Richland Mall -Richland Mall features Belk, Barnes & Noble Booksellers, TGI Friday's and Regal Cinemas. Richland Mall is centrally located right in the heart of Columbia, at the corner of Forest Drive and Beltline Boulevard.

Dutch Square Mall - All roads lead to Dutch Square, South Carolina’s first Trenholm Plaza - Columbia’s original and favorite mall. Centrally located at I- shopping center located at Forest Drive & 26, I-20 and I-126, this mall features Belk and Trenholm Road. Fresh Market and Publix

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grocery stores, Stein Mart, Books-A-Million, Southeast: Garners Ferry Road specialty shops and dining. Northwest: Harbison Blvd.

boutique shopping Five Points - Near the University of South Carolina, the Five Points area is home to many unique retail shops as well as restaurants and clubs. This area’s stores appeal to the young crowd with places to buy hip clothing, art, gourmet foods and wines and jewelry. Take Gervais Street or Blossom Street to Harden Street.

Village at Sandhill K Gardener

Village at Sandhill - The Village is the perfect mix of living, shopping, dining, and entertainment! With its charming streetscapes, town center and distinctive architecture, you’ll find over 300 acres of dining and shopping galore! Anchor stores include Academy Sports and Outdoors, Old Navy, TJ Maxx, Belk, JC Penney and Books a Million. Also, Sandhill Stadium 16 Regal Cinema is onsite.

Devine Street - Upscale shops line Devine Street in the Shandon neighborhood on the east side of Columbia beyond Five Points. Here you’ll find one-of-a-kind retailers offering unique apparel and accessories for men, women and children as well as items for the home like furniture, stained glass, lamps, china and flatware.

commercial areas

Downtown City Center - Shopping is making a comeback to the heart of the capital city. Gift shops, an outdoor store, art galleries and specialty stores are restoring old storefronts and bringing life back to downtown. Streetscaping adds to the appeal of Main Street.

You’ll find Target, WalMart, Best Buy and other large commercial retailers in the following areas: Lexington: US Highway 378 (Sunset Blvd) and US Highway 1 (Augusta Hwy) Northwest: Harbison Boulevard Northeast: Two Notch Road

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K Gardener

Historic Congaree Vista - An eclectic mix of City Market Antiques Mall is located on businesses line Gervais Street and its side Gervais Street streets, near the heart of the city. Here you’ll in the Congaree find galleries, lots of restaurants, nightclubs Vista. This and shops offering American crafts, antiques, sprawling antiques mall and more. features a wide Downtown Lexington - Main Street in variety of downtown Lexington features unique retailers quality dealers including a fine men’s clothier, sewing notions specializing in shop, ladie’s shop, jewelry, and decorative art glass, fabrics. Down the road a few blocks, shoppers pottery, china, can find a quilt shop, book store and art vintage toys, gallery inside the Old Mill. old advertising, books, prints, K Gardener estate jewelry, antique shopping furniture and collectables of every kind. The buildings housing the mall are of particular Antiques hunting in Greater Columbia brings interest. It is believed that the older of the shoppers to a good collection of antique malls buildings was built before the Civil War, and shops for a unique shopping experience. although no recoreds exist regarding its Your finds may include University of South construction. This may be the result of the Carolina memorabilia (the school’s been Civil War when courthouse records were around for over 200 years), souvenirs destroyed in a fire brought on by Sherman’s postcards of old Columbia (we’ve been the March in 1865. The newer of the buildings capital city since 1792), silver antique was built around 1870 as a cotton warehouse. furniture and decor featuring our state flag’s Here farmers from the Upstate’s cotton fields palmetto tree and crescent moon. Columbia brought their product to market, where it was area antique stores are legendary for eventually loaded into rail cars and shipped to delivering one remarkable surprise after Charleston. There it was placed on ships another. As one of our country’s original sailing to England, where the cotton was used colonies, South Carolina’s past runs long and in the spinning mills in Lancashire in the deep and many artifacts have been saved to 1800’s. preserve the past. Things once passed down and considered heirlooms, end up in estate sales when families lose interest or when no heirs exist.

763 Meeting Street Antique Mall In West Columbia and centered in what is known as the West Columbia Antiques District. Considered the best in West Columbia, this mall is on the west side of the river and is a collection of 30 quality dealers who keep their shops tidy and full of interesting and unique merchandise. 763 is a great place to browse for those unusual collections and hard-to-find items or unique gifts. Its booths and lighted cases are brimming full of everything antique to collectibles. www.763antiquemall.com ©

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Discover Columbia

Rejuvenating Your Bedroom

Most of us don't put enough thought into choosing the right mattress, especially considering how much time we spend using it. We spend about one-third of our lives asleep, and most of this time is spent on a mattress. Despite the amount of time we spend in bed, many of us ignore our mattress until the springs start poking us through the mattress pad. But a mattress has a lot to do with the quality of sleep and, therefore, with how we feel during the day. So give some thought and attention to the type of mattress you use to ensure a good night's sleep and a well-rested feeling the following day. When selecting a mattress, you need to make decisions about firmness, type of mattress and bed, and size. Recognizing the important role sleep and a good mattress plays in quality of life, the folks at Southern Bedding of Columbia build a great selection of mattresses right here in Columbia. Choose from: • • • • •

Reversible Mattresses • Luxury Pillow-Top Mattresses • Economical Mattresses • Organic Latex Mattresses • Custom Box Springs/Foundations

Custom-Size Mattresses L&P Adjustable Powerbase Beds Split Queen Foundations Memory Foam Mattresses

Southern Bedding

The staff at Southern Bedding of Columbia can help you choose the mattress and foundation that will help you to feel well-rested each day. Since they manufacture the bedding they sell, they are truly hands-on experts, providing advice that can make all the difference in your sleep experience. And their prices at 30% below retail! Visit them at 400 Calhoun St. Columbia SC 29201 803-765-9630 | www.southernbedding.net | Since 1951

Whole House Tips Decorating Den

Work with a professional to rejuvenate your space - it will give you a much better end result than winging it! Your home will be a reflection of your tastes and will stay within your budget if you follow these these tips provided with Gigi Willetts of Decorating Den. • Start a file of magazine pictures of rooms that you like. Your decorator will be able to quickly understand the feel that you want for your home. • Involve your professional decorator at the very beginning of your project. The most successful decorating projects are those where the decorator and

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your space! homeowner are very candid with each other regarding tastes, priorities, budget, timing and goals. • Our first goal should be to design your home to suit the way you and your family actually live. Analyze all the rooms of your home - are some underutilized and some just exhausted from use? Maybe its time to relocate some activity centers and redirect some traffic patterns. • Resist the urge to repaint your interior as the first step in your new look. There are myriad beautiful paint colors to compliment your final fabric selections but painting your walls first will severely limit your choices in fabric selections. Color schemes should flow smoothly from room to room, especially in the adjoining living areas. This means some detailed attention needs to be paid early to the long range overall color plan. • Something slightly whimsical in every room will ensure that your rooms don't take their new look too seriously. Lamps, area rugs, candles and other accessories are all opportunities for a novel touch to keep rooms feeling light and welcoming. Gigi Willetts is the owner of a Decorating Den franchise in the Camden/Columbia area. Imagine the fun and convenience of having your own personal interior decorator come to your home to take care of your challenging project - with talent, creative ideas, and an incredible array of brand names you love, all to fit your taste, your style and your budget. (803) 699-5252 (803) 432-3000 Spring is upon us, and as you sit back and decoratingdengigi@msn.com watch the daffodils and tulips bring brilliant beauty to your garden, you should sitting in a beautiful space as well. Toss out those plastic resin chairs and put together a look that is as unique as you your outdoor haven. With Ethan Allen's new Biscayne collection, you have choices galore. The folks at Ethan Allen are passionate about bringing the "custom" experience to everyday furnishings. In creating the new Biscayne collection, Ethan Allen met the challenge to create a frame that could be a trusty semicustomizable chameleon - one to satisfy Ethan Allen a range of people with a range of tastes and budgets - while always retaining distinctiveness and chic. The new Biscayne offers a strong, low-maintenance cast-aluminum frame; versatile, go-anywhere style; and unparalleled choice. Dine al fresco on a rectangular table or a round one: choose from three tabletops (glass and two kinds of marble); and select from three chair sizes and three ways to sprawl (chaise lounge, settee, and chair plus ottoman). Depending on the look you want, opt for one of three finishes: Bronze, Onyx, or Graphite. And then, of course, revel in your upholstery choices! They have a great selection of handsome weather-hardy outdoor fabrics. Another option is to choose one of the 44 newest performance fabrics which have been designed to better withstand exposure to sunlight and other weathering conditions. They are stain repellent, mold and mildew resistant, and are easy to clean. These fabrics are so versatile that they are a perfect choice for both indoor and outdoor living due to their lower maintenance, beautifully soft, and high-style design. Explore Biscayne and feel free to ask a design pro for guidance as you plan and create your look. www.ethanallen.com. 803-4071500. 101 Harbison Blvd. © 47 Discover Columbia

Outdoors

SC Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism

ACK GETTING B to Basics !

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In an age with iPhone apps for toddlers, it's easy to be jaded. The Great American Backyard Campout held at Sesquicentennial State Park is the perfect opportunity to remember simpler pleasures! The campout will take place on Saturday, April 21Sunday, April 22. Thirty-five families will be chosen from all applicants and will be able to camp overnight with park rangers, learn the basics of camping, and participate in various workshops! Tents will be provided, and lots of prizes will be given away! Apply quickly to reserve your spot! 9564 Two Notch Road. Call 803-788-2706 for more information. www.southcarolinaparks.com

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The Rivers

The Congaree River Three Rivers Greenway: Free Admission Cayce Riverwalk and Extension Bridges, boardwalks, overlooks, bank fishing, and 1 1/2 miles of lighted central paths accommodate all levels of physical access including baby carriages and wheelchairs. The main entrance is off Axtell Drive, however bicycle and pedestrian access is provided from Knox Abbott Drive as well as State Street. Cayce. West Columbia Riverwalk The Saluda River In addition to its lighted paved paths which Riverbanks Zoo & Garden Natural river views and valley overlooks along the follow the river, this section of the Three Rivers Gardenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Woodlands Walk and River Trail create Greenway also features an amphitheater for a scenic path to historic ruins from the 1800s, the concerts and events, picnic tables and site of South Carolina's first water-powered textile restrooms. Parking lot is on the west side of the mill. A river overlook is at the bottom of the paved Gervais Street Bridge (US 1) in West Columbia. Granby Park hillside path, where rapids and very wild river 24 acres at the end of Catawba Street off Huger scenery can be viewed. Enter at the Botanical Garden entrance at 1300 Botanical Parkway just Street with wonderful views of the river. Bridges, boardwalks, overlooks, and a half mile of lighted off US Highway 378 at I-20 and I-26 in West central paths to accommodate all levels of Columbia. 803. 779.8717 Admission. physical access including baby carriages and wheelchairs. Granby Park offers off path trails Saluda Shoals for mountain bikes and runners as well. Saluda Shoals Park is a premier, natural, environmentally sensitive riverfront park that invites visitors to experience the treasures of the Saluda River through exceptional educational, recreational and cultural opportunities. Paved and unpaved trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding are open. Located in Irmo at 5605 Bush River Rd. 803.731.5208 Admission. The Saluda and the Broad Rivers meet in a rush of rapids churning over giant boulders, then mellow out to form the tranquil Congaree River. One can get a true appreciation of the beauty of this area by walking along the riverbanks. There is so much you can do on or around the rivers, from kayaking and canoeing to walking and biking! Walking trails and parks provide easy access along both sides of the rivers.

The Broad River Riverfront Park and Historic Columbia Canal This is a great place to walk on its 2 1/2 mile trail, much of it paved. Historic buildings, lookout points and resting benches make this park and interesting and relaxing way to enjoy the Broad River. The entrance to Riverfront Park & Historic Columbia Canal is located at the foot of Laurel St. off Huger Street downtown. Free. Harbison State Forest 18 miles of trails designed for walking, jogging, hiking and bicycling and range from moderately easy to difficult. Located off Broad River Road in Harbison. Admission. ÂŠ

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Special Parks Maxcy Gregg Park Maxcy Gregg Park celebrated its 100th birthday and a facelift last fall. Maxcy Gregg dwindled in size over the years as property was given to USC and to the federal government, but is now better than ever as final construction restores this piece of Columbia’s history. A paved outer path, central crossing trails, new landscaping and a new pedestrian bridge connecting to parking area are some of the latest improvements! 1806 Blossom Street. www.columbiasc.net Harbison Lake Nestled in residential Columbia, Harbison Lake trails take you along shaded paths, passing by backyards of homes, encircling two small lakes, and passing through a wilderness wildlife habitat. A variety of birds and animals live in this area, most notably the large numbers of ducks and geese you will see as you walk the lake trail. Free admission. 106 Hillpin Road. Dreher Island State Park Located on Lake Murray, there's much to do at this wonderful state park. Enjoy fishing several types of bass, take a leisurely boat ride, or pack a picnic and enjoy the fresh air under one of the 13 shelters. In addition, you can enjoy the playground, take a relaxing walk along the ¼-mile Billy Dreher Nature Trail, or experience the moderate 2.1 mile hike along the Little Gap Trail. Admission charged. 3677 State Park Road, Prosperity, SC. www.southcarolinaparks.com

Lake Wateree State Park This site is located on beautiful Lake Murray, just waiting to be enjoyed! Chill out and take a swim, go camping, take a hike, or take advantage of public fishing access or their public boat ramp! Whatever you do, Lake Murray is the perfect place to relax and be alone or gather your friends and hang out away from the city. Admission charged. 881 State Park Road, Winnsboro, SC. www.southcarolinaparks.com Congaree National Park Congaree is a great way to enjoy some fresh air and experience 'hiking and paddling.' Ranger-guided hikes and canoe trips can be reserved, or take a jog around the 2.5 mile boardwalk loop. Limited primitive and backcountry camping are also available. Best thing about Congaree National Park? Everything is FREE! 100 National Park Road Hopkins, SC www.nps.gov Sesquicentennial State Park Situated in the middle of the Sandhills region, Sesqui features a beautiful 30-acre lake surrounded by trails and picnic areas! Check out the 3.5 mile Loop Road Trail, the 1.9 mile Sandhills Hiking Trail, the 0.4 mile Jackson Creek Nature Trail and the 6.1 mile Mountain Bike Trail. 9564 Two Notch Road. www.southcarolinaparks.com

Quiet Camping Under a Magnificent Sky Although Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort is family-oriented all year long, there are far fewer families with children camping during the school months of January - April. The campground plays host to "snowbird" couples from the Northeast and Midwest, looking for an escape from dreary and cold winter days. It's an opportunity to enjoy quiet camping, fishing and activities that appeal to adults like covered dish dinners, candy bar bingo and a great ceramics program. A Valentine's Dinner is planned, and guests become friends in the cozy clubroom where they can share watching their favorite sports on the bigscreen TV. No matter what time of year, nothing beats the flavor of outdoor cooking and a campfire never feels as wonderful as when there's a nip in the air. And if you are mesmerized by the beauty of nature, you'll be astonished at the night skies at Jellystone, located away from the lights of any city. Billions of stars dance and sparkle, and it is absolutely magnificent to watch the constellations move across the sky. 803-568-4182 www.riverbottomfarms.com ©

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RENT A BIKE!

28th Annual

Palmetto Sportsmen's Classic

Palmetto Sportsmenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Classic

On Friday, March 23 (12-8 PM); Saturday, March 24 (9 AM-7 PM); and Sunday, March 25 (11 AM-6 PM), head out to the SC State Fairgrounds for the 28th Annual Palmetto Sportsmen's Classic! Stop by and see Lee & Tiffany Lakosky's (from "The Crush TV!") seminar on hunting, over 300 exhibitors with products, samples, demonstrations-and the latest technology in fishing tackle, rods, and reels; hunting supplies, tree stands, camouflage, and archery equipment, and boats and marine equipment and electronics. There's something for every sportsman (or sportswoman!). Rain or shine! Admission is charged, but parking is free! 803-7344008. 1200 Rosewood Drive. {www.psclassic.com}

Few spring activities are as fun, beautiful, and absolutely great for your health as a bike ride through Saluda Shoals Park! Men's, women's, and youth-sized Cruiser bikes are available for rent from 9:30AM-4PM all week long and include all necessary equipment. $5/1-hour, $15/4-hours, $25/full day (9AM-5PM). So, pick a clear, beautiful Greater Columbia day, grab someone special, and spend the day enjoying the great outdoors! 5605 Bush River Road. 803-731-5208 weekdays, 803-213-2050 weekends. www.icrc.net

Dreher Island State Park is the place to be for great fishing tournaments! Check out these great opportunities, occurring throughout the season. The WalMart BFL Tournament will be held on Saturday, February 25, with 140-150 boats and up to 300 participants. The Carolina Bass Challenge is taking place on Saturday, March 3, with 80-90 boats. The Indian Waters BSA Tournament will be in town on Saturday, April 14, with 100 boats participating. For more information on these three tournaments, contact Dreher Island Park at 803-364-4152. The FLW Collegiate National Championship is coming through on Thursday, April 12. For details, call Capital City Lake Murray Country at 803-781-5940. 3677 State Park Road, Prosperity, SC. {www.southcarolinaparks.com/dreherisland} & {www.lakemurraycountry.com} ÂŠ

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l Calling Al Anglers!

46th Annual Carolina Classic Home & Garden Show! Friday, March 9-Sunday, March 11 at the SC State Fairgrounds The Carolina Classic Home & Garden Show is the largest home and garden exhibit in the Midlands and will feature displays in all of the buildings at the state fairgrounds. Over 300 exhibitors in gardening, home improvement, and outdoor products will fill the Cantey, Ellison, Moore, Ruff, and Hampton buildings and outdoor areas. Admission charged. www.columbiabuilders.com ................................................................................... Columbia Garden Club Spring Plant and Tree Exchange! Saturday, March 3 at 10 AM in the Forest Park Shopping Center in Forest Acres Come to exchange annuals, perennials, trees, shrubs, herbs, house plants, bulbs, and rootings! Plants from members' gardens and from the public at large are cut and shared free of charge with the public fall and spring. This highly anticipated public project has been an ongoing community service since 1927! Free admission. ................................................................................... Garden Tours of the Robert Mills Founder Garden! Beginning at 11 AM on the third Thursday of every month at the Robert Mills House & Gardens. This 60-minute guided tour features the gardens of the Robert Mills House. Guests can compare and contrast the visual aesthetics of the late 18th and 19th-century landscape gardening to an earlier styled 52 English Boxwood garden based on formal

French gardens. Cost, $6/person. 1616 Blanding Street. 803-252-1770. www.historiccolumbia.org ................................................................................... Midlands Plant & Flower Festival! Thursday, April 19-Saturday, April 21-8 AM6 PM; Sunday, April 22-12-5 PM at the SC State Farmers Market Come to the festival and pick up some gorgeous plants and flowers for your home! 3483 Charleston Highway, West Columbia. www.agriculture.sc.gov ................................................................................... Historic Elmwood Park Tour of Homes & Gardens! Saturday, April 21-10 AM-5 PM This century-old historic district in downtown Columbia features beautifully renovated private homes and gardens open to the public. Enjoy pedicab rides, music, artists, and food during this annual tour, beginning at Roy Linch Park on the corner of Abbeville and Lincoln Streets. Plan on visiting one of the most beautiful and well-preserved areas in Greater Columbia. ................................................................................... South Carolina Midlands Master Gardener Symposium! Thursday, March 15-8 AM-4 PM This year's theme: Gateway to Gardening... Branching Out. Join the Midlands Chapter of Master Gardeners for their annual symposium and learn about what's old and new in the realm of local gardening. Fee covers admission to all presentations, demonstrations, book and vendor sales, buffet lunch, refreshments, goody bags, and handouts. www.scmmga.org

Egg Huntinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; time! 43rd Cottontail Festival and Egg Hunt; Saturday, March 24: 10 AM-2 PM Join us again at Sesquicentennial State Park for this awesome family event with games, rides, arts and crafts and entertainment. Egg Hunts will begin promptly at 1:30 PM (Be sure to get there early!) and will be divided by age groups. Find the "Golden Egg" and get a fantastic prize! Admission is only $2/ages 15+ (State park fee), but the event is free. (Rain date: March 31) 803-754-6720, x. 237. www.richlandcountyrecreation.com Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt; Friday, April 6 Enjoy the thrill of hunting for Easter eggs with a twist. Hunt for them at night! The Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission is hosting this year's Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt at Crooked Creek Park. For times and information about the nominal fee, call 803-345-8100. www.icrc.net Easter Regatta 2012; Friday, April 6-Sunday, April 8 Herald the coming spring! Come and watch the sailors compete in one of the most important sailing events on Lake Murray. The Regatta course is near the towers at the dam and the public may view from the shoreline. 803-261-3391. www.columbiasailingclub.org Let's Move! Spring Celebration and Easter Egg Hunt 2012; Saturday, April 7 Mayor Benjamin and family invite you to the City of Columbia's second annual Let's Move! Celebration and Egg Hunt in Drew Park (behind the Drew Wellness Center) from 4 PM-6 PM. The day will include fun warm-up eggs-ercises, an egg hunt, and refreshments. Bring your baskets! FREE! 803-545-3100. Pupcakes Easter Egg Hunt for Pooches 2012; Saturday, April 7 Martin Luther King Jr. Park in Columbia is again hosting the fun Easter Egg Hunt for Pooches! On Saturday, around lunchtime, bring your pups to find eggs. Then you'll parade to the store for the awards ceremonies and goodies for both you and your pup. Please call 803-461-0236 for times and reservations or email pupcakesboutique@yahoo.com to make sure there are enough eggs for everyone. www.pupcakespetboutique.com

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2012 Spring Events

JANUARY 6 Baker and Baker Foundation Presents: Art of Music: Viola d’Amore The evocative and rarely heard viola d'amore (Italian for "violin of love") is an instrument perhaps too soulful for large gatherings. Thomas Georgi, one of its foremost players in the world, performs music from three centuries of the viola d'amore's history during an intimate ensemble in the Columbia Museum of Art's Renaissance Gallery. 1515 Main Street, 6 PM—$15/$12 Members 803-799-2810 www.columbiamuseum.org 13-16 SCARAB Gaming Convention SCARAB is the South Carolina Area Roleplayers and Boardgamers. They are a group of gamers based in the Columbia, South Carolina region who travel to retailers, conventions and meetups to demo a variety of games. Scottish Rite Center, 7230 Garners Ferry Road Registration required www.s-c-a-r-a-b.com

19-23 Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus: Fully Charged Don’t miss Fully Charged, the all-new surge of circus entertainment from Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® where megawatts of thrills explode off of the arena floor with breathtaking dare-devilry, amazing stunts and never-before-seen performances that energize Children Of All Ages! Colonial Life Arena, 801 Lincoln Street 1-877-489-2849 www.coloniallifearena.com 20 Van Gogh: The Life Naifeh lectures on the revelations that emerged during 10 years of research and the profound ways in which Van Gogh's turbulent personal life, as well as his deep immersion in the art and literature of his era, helped shaped one of the signature imaginations in Western Art. Preceded by a Champagne Reception at 6 PM; followed by a Book Signing. Columbia Museum of Art, 1515 Main Street. Admission. 803-799-2810. www.columbiamuseum.org

Please check with event organizer. Dates subject to change.

24 Craft Bar Happy Hour Dust off a project that you've been meaning to work on, and enjoy great snacks, refreshing beverages and the best of crafter camaraderie to get your juices flowing in the Museum's unconventional craft haven. Don't have a project to work on? No problem, pick up a craft kit for $12 to take home, or start it that night. Columbia Museum of Art, 1515 Main Street, 6 PM—$15/$12 for Members 803-799-2810 www.columbiamuseum.org

25 Who Came Before Join a Congaree National Park ranger on a hike through time! Learn about the people who ventured into Congaree before it became the National Park. 100 National Park Road, Hopkins, SC—2 PM. 803-776-4396 www.nps.gov/cong 28 World of Beer Festival All About Beer Magazine has presented 26 festivals in NC, SCand VA since 1996. The mission is to educate the public in beer appreciation and beer quality, and to build the local beer community. Afternoon Sessions 12-4 PM, Evening Sessions 6-10 PM. Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center. www.allaboutbeer.com

28 8th Annual Celebrate Black History Month with the Auntie Karen Foundation This event is free, but there is a fee to tour the museum. The Aunti Karen Young Entrepeneurs Showcase, a quilting demonstration and story, jazz and gospel music, visual art, spoken word, and dance will all take place! Columbia Museum of Art, 1515 Main Street. www.auntiekaren.org

28 Red Hot Chili Peppers Live The Red Hot Chili Peppers are bringing their I’m With You tour to Soda City! This is RHCP's first fullscale tour of the U.S. since 2007, when they wrapped their massive Stadium Arcadium tour! Colonial Life Arena, 801 Lincoln Street. 1-877-489-2849. www.coloniallifearena.com

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FEBRUARY 3 The Mixed Music Tour featuring Keith Sweat Enjoy the rhythm and blues stylings of Keith Sweat, with Ledisi, Johnny Gill, and Mint Condition opening! Sweat has been in the music business since 1975 and has made his career as a singer-songwriter, producer, radio personality, and key player in the late 80s-mid 90s new jack swing fusion genre. Colonial Life Arena, 801 Lincoln Street 1-877-489-2849 www.coloniallifearena.com 4 7th Annual Statewide Ethnic History Parade and Festival: Karamu! Celebrate! Parade and Gospel Soiree “Karamu” is a Swahili term designating a celebration or feast. Waverly and Five Points Historical Communities 803-361-5470 www.fundsinc1.org

4 Clean Sweep 2012: The Thrill of the Hunt The Sale features new and used items donated by Junior League members, citizens, and local businesses at affordable prices. Cantey Building, SC State Fairgrounds, 1200 Rosewood Drive. 803-252-4552. www.jlcolumbia.org

10-11 Monster Jam These twelve-feet-tall, ten-thousand-pound monster trucks will bring you to the edge of your seat, racing and ripping up a custom-designed track full of obstacles to soar over—or SMASH through! Colonial Life Arena, 801 Lincoln Street. 1-877-489-2849 www.coloniallifearena.com 10-12 Lake Murray Country 49th Annual Boat Show The largest and longest-running show in the Midlands, the show will feature runabouts, sport boats, fishing boats, cruisers, personal watercraft, jet boats, and high-performance boats—everything from 12 to 30 feet will be ready to board and buy! SC State Fairgrounds. 803-781-5940 www.lakemurraycountry.com 17 University of South Carolina's Opening Day Come out to the beautiful ballpark and show your support and appreciation for the Back-to-Back National Champions! www.gamecocksonline.com

24 Disney Live! Phineas and Ferb “Mom! Phineas and Ferb are going on a LIVE tour!” Phineas, Ferb, and the whole tri-state area gang embark on a bold escape jumping out from behind your TV and onto the stage in a live action adventure – right in your hometown! Colonial Life Arena, 801 Lincoln Street 1-877-489-2849. www.coloniallifearena.com

25 Lexington Race Against Hunger This a great opportunity for competitive runners, fun runners, and families. The real winners are all the hungry that will benefit through funds raised and an increased awareness of hunger issues! Over eleven years, LRAH has donated $238,859.16! 803-359-7770, ext 20 www.lexrah.org

MARCH 9 Winter Jam 2012 : Tour Spectacular This will be the seventeenth installment of one of Christian music’s biggest events! Featuring some of the top names in Christian music, there are

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Please check with event organizer. Dates subject to change.

24 Ramsey Lewis & Patti Austin: 2012 Legends of… The concert series will place a special emphasis on Jazz Legends—this year, two of the most significant names in Jazz in concert: Grammy Award-winners Patti Austin (vocalist) and Ramsey Lewis (pianist, composer)! 8 PM, Koger Center for the Arts. 803-251-2222 for tickets. www.auntiekaren.org

recommended event

no tickets, and admission is only $10 at the door! More than an event, Winter Jam is a ministry! Colonial Life Arena, 801 Lincoln Street. 1-877-489-2849. www.coloniallifearena.com

9-11 46th Annual Carolina Classic Home & Garden Show The Home Builders Association of Greater Columbia (HBAGC) and Clyde Nettles Roofing present the largest home and garden exhibition in the Midlands, with over 250 construction, home improvement and outdoor products exhibits, at the SC State Fairgrounds. A number of educational seminars are offered daily on topics like home building, home buying, remodeling, gardening and green remodeling and building. All seminars are free to attend with admission to the show. Learn about new items, exciting products and services. Over $10,000 in prizes will be given away throughout the show. (803) 256-6238 or www.columbiabuilders.com 10 Columbia SC Marathon The Columbia region's beautiful scenery serves as the backdrop for the inaugural 2012 Columbia SC Marathon. www.columbiascmarathon.com 17 St. Pat’s in Five Points Come out to this great celebration and enjoy food, fun and local flare! “Get the Green” 5-k run and 1-mile walk, the St. Pat’s in Five Points Parade, Beauty Pageant, Children’s Carnival, Shaggin’ on Santee, and lots of live music! www.stpats5points.com

22 Taste of Lake Murray Enjoy samples of foods from area restaurants showcasing their

recommended event

signature dishes, dance the night away on a dance floor crowded with shaggers, bid at the silent and live auctions featuring items and the great getaways from all over the United States! DoubleTree by Hilton, 2100 Bush River Road 803-781-5940. www.lakemurraycountry.com

31 - April 1 17th Annual Columbia International Festival Celebrate the rich cultural diversity of the Greater Columbia area! The festival offers a full-sensory global experience: exhibits from over 60 nations with artifacts and items reflecting their culture and heritage, an international food court offering foreign cuisines, an international fashion show, an international bazaar offering souvenirs and native products, round the clock staged cultural performances, and the pageantry of the Parade of Nations, where traditionally dressed representatives proudly present their home countries' flags. Held at the Cantey Building, SC State Fairgrounds. More info at www.cifonline.org/ or call 803-799-3452

APRIL recommended event

rockin' lineup and we will see you at the fountain in Five Points! www.fivepointscolumbia.com

17 18th Annual Central Carolina Food & Wine Festival This gala event showcases local gourmet food purveyors and domestic and international wineries while raising money for a good cause. Some of Greater Columbia's finest restaurants and caterers participate, giving attendees the opportunity to sample the best of the best. Proceeds from all events support efforts of the Central Carolina Community Foundation to award grants to nonprofit organizations in the Midlands. In 17 years the event has raised more than $810,000 in support of the Foundation's mission. For more information, visit the Foundation's website at www.yourfoundation.org 18 Sparkleberry Country Fair Come and see how it was done in the old days. Live animal exhibits, antique farm equipment, antique and classic cars, carnival rides, entertainment, food, arts & crafts. www.sparkleberryfair.com 20-29 2012 Indie Grits Festival Recently named "One of the 20 Coolest Film Festivals" by Moviemaker Magazine, this year's Festival features film, music, stage performances, art, crafts, food, interactive events, and parties! Multiple Locations/Sponsors & Affiliates 803-254-8234. www.indiegrits.com

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Please check with event organizer. Dates subject to change.

APRIL & MAY-EVERY THURSDAY Five after Five Concert Series Look forward to another

recommended event

21 Celebrate Freedom Festival This year's theme is "Women in Service to Our Nation", to include women in both traditional and non-traditional roles such as military, politics, medicine and business. The festival will include a living history focused on the Vietnam War, helicopters and military vehicles, field encampments, entertainment, food vendors, kids' activities and a living museum. 9am-6pm at Finlay Park. Free admission. A special Heroes of Freedom Dinner, honoring Rosie the Riveters, will be held the night before the festival. Tracey Lloyd, Director of Innovations for Walmart Corporation, will be the keynote speaker. More info at www.thecelebratefreedomfoundation.org. 24 Midlands Heart Walk As the American Heart Association's signature fund-raising event, the Midlands Heart Walk promotes physical activity and heart-healthy living in a fun family environment. The Heart Walk is a 3 mile non-competitive fitness walk that brings together our community to fight heart disease and stroke. Registration begins at 8 AM, event kicks off at 9AM. Colonial Life Arena, 801 Lincoln Street 803-8063092. www.midlandsheartwalk.org 27 Gala 2012: The CHAIR-ity Event of the Year! The Columbia Museum of Art is all about Chair-ity! On Friday, April 27, 2012 the Museum celebrates the opening of our exhibition, The Art of Seating: 200 Years of American Design, with an exclusive black tie gala, featuring specialty cocktails, delicious fare, lively entertainment, dancing and surprises for all to enjoy. 1515 Main Street. 803-799-2810. www.columbiamuseum.org

27 Wine Tasting at Riverbanks Botanical Garden Guests can pick from a wide variety of domestic and imported wines, gab about grapes with wine experts, listen to live jazz, sample light bites from local restaurants and catch a stunning sunset. 7-9:30 PM at 500 Wildlife Parkway 803-779-8717. www.riverbanks.org 27-28 Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour by Cirque du Soleil A riveting fusion of visuals, dance, music and fantasy that immerses audiences in Michael's creative world and literally turns his signature moves upside down, Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour unfolds Michael Jackson's artistry before the eyes of the audience. Colonial Life Arena, 801 Lincoln Street. 1-877-489-2849. www.coloniallifearena.com

MAY 5-20-SAVE THE DATE! Parade of Homes at The Park at Woodcreek Farms. www.columbiabuilders.com

Please check with event organizer. Dates subject to change.

Following the Stars... Last year, local Robert B. Ariail graciously donated his one-of-a-kind collection of historic telescopes and astronomy books, documents, and equipment to the SC State Museum and to USC's Hollings Special Collections Library. The telescope collection can be viewed on the fourth floor of the State Museum, while the books and documents are kept in Special Collections at USC. With pieces dating back to the first half of the eighteenth century, this is the only such collection in the world, housed right here in Columbia! 301 Gervais Street. Call 803-898-4978 for more information. www.scmuseum.org/plan_visit/ariail.aspx ÂŠ

SC State Museum

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Happy Healthy Columbia ! 50 & Better This year, the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission is continuing its "50 & Better" program, dedicated to keeping area seniors active and involved through safe, accessible recreation and social support programs. Seniors are welcome at all ICRC events, but some "50 & Better" specific programs include: Fitness, Line Dancing, Golf Lessons, Bowling Classes, Driver Safety, Competition Bridge, and Competition Bingo. For more programs or their locations, dates, and times, check out the website or give them a call! 803-772-1228. www.icrc.net

A Restaurateur's Fresh Philosophy

Michelle Wang is President of Miyos Gourmet Group. Her newest restaurant is MFresh, a green tea and juice bar, online at goMFresh.com.

Michelle Wang has a passion for helping people enhance their pleasure, wellbeing and longevity through fresh, seasonal foods. In her restaurants, Miyo's, MVista and MCafe, Michelle offers dishes prepared with the freshest, most nutrient rich fruits, vegetables and lean proteins. She believes that eating in harmony with the seasons is ..................... important to help our bodies attune to the energy of the Healthy season with protein-rich meats and root vegetables in winter and leafy greens like collards, spinach and kale in the spring. Michelle also believes eating the right foods can change people's lives, making them slimmer, happier and healthier. That is why she is opening Columbia's only green tea and juice bar, MFresh, in the Spring of 2012. MFresh will offer fresh squeezed juices and smoothies, antioxidant teas and nutritious foods for a cleaner, more energized lifestyle. From powerful teas with ingredients that boost the Vegetar ian Moo Shu: M Vista. immune system to fresh squeezed fruit and vegetable juices with live food enzymes to increase energy and delicious salads, sushi, soups and grilled shrimp, chicken and tofu, MFresh will give Columbia a taste of something Give your family a taste of Michelle's lifedifferent. changing philosophy on healthy eating with

Fresh &

Vegetarian Moo Shu

Ingredients: napa cabbage carrots shitake mushrooms snowpeas tofu (lightly fried) garlic 58

this recipe from her personal cookbook. Cut up the vegetables in narrow strips as neatly as possible. Saute the salt vegetables and the tofu in a wok or skillet with sesame or peanut oil (not too sugar much!) Season with spices, white wine and oyster-hoisin sauce combined. white wine oyster/hoisin sauce Moo shu is served with several warm, steamed, thin, white tortilla-like wrappers made of flour, called "moo shu pancakes". This dish is low fat and high fiber - very good for you! ÂŠ

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regiona l family medicine

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Family Medicine Centers of S.C. has grown over 30 years to become the largest Family Practice group in Columbia. To provide the best service to our patients, we offer compassionate, comprehensive, competent, convenient, cost-effective health care. Our services include General Medicine, Physical Exams, Cancer Screening, Colonoscopy, Springwood Lake Family Practice • 788.7884 1721 Horseshoe Drive • Columbia (near I-20 & Two Notch Rd.) Immunizations, Pediatrics, Women’s Health, Pelvic Exams, Bone Density Testing, Weight Loss Nutrition Counseling, Skin Care, Anxiety/Depression Woodhill Family Medicine • 783.4433 treatment, Physical Medicine, Pain Management, Sleep Medicine, Office 813 Leesburg Road • Columbia (I-77 & Leesburg Rd.) Orthopedics, General Surgery, X-Ray, Ultrasound, Heart and Lung Midtown Family Medicine • 931.0100 Studies, Treadmill Stress Testing, complete in-house Laboratory, and 1910 Gregg Street • Columbia (near SC Heart Center) Immigration Physicals. Our medical staff is also experienced in Rice Creek Family Medicine • 227.7777 Geriatrics, Urgent Care and Occupational Medicine. We participate with Hardscrabble & Rice Meadow Way • Columbia Aetna, Blue Cross-Blue Shield, State Employee Plan, Federal Employee (near Ridgeview HS) Plan, Blue Choice, Medicare, Tricare, Cigna, Carolina Care Plan, United Saluda Pointe Family Medicine • 239.1600 Healthcare, Medcost, Humana and many others. Our ultimate goal is 3630 Sunset Blvd. • West Columbia (between I-26 & I-20) to deliver outstanding medical service as your personal physician, who Lake Murray Family Medicine • 724.1100 has come to know you and your family through years of caring. We’re 7611 St. Andrews Rd. • Irmo (across the street from Union here for you, and we’re here to stay! United Methodist Church

Stephen F. Serbin, M.D. Peter J. Stahl, M.D. Bhavesh R. Amin, M.D. Carol S. Berry, FNP Katherine E. Gordon, M.D.

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Stacy J. Gajewski, M.D. David C. Morris, M.D. Jennifer R. Turner, PA-C Griffith G. Walters, M.D.

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• • • • •

William H. Crigler, M.D. Tamera D. Crowe, M.D. John F. Mattei, M.D. Stephen M. Tuel, M.D. Minoti V. Parab, M.D.

Expanded State-Of-The-Art Fertility Clinic Opens In West Columbia Columbia-area residents can be proud to be home of one of the newest and technologically-advanced fertility clinics in the country with the opening of the expanded Advanced Fertility center on 2324 Sunset Boulevard in West Columbia. As exciting as the 14,000-square foot fertility institute is for the state, founder and medical director, Dr. Gail Whitman-Elia notes the focus of the development is on families, "We've been fortunate to have helped thousands start or expand their families. This beautiful, new facility gives us the ability to serve even more patients with the highest in comfort, compassion, technology and fertility results." Patients dealing with infertility are a part of a growing group. 3.5 million Americans will experience some level of infertility. They are encouraged to seek out proper care by consulting a sub-specialist in infertility. Help is waiting. Get started. Call (803) 939-1515 or visit www.IVFWeCare.com today. The South Carolina State Museum is hosting the Southeastern premier of BODY WORLDS Vital, on display through April 15. This exhibition of the BODY WORLDS phenomenon is designed to highlight the reality of healthy and unhealthy lifestyle choices, a message vividly brought to bear with authentic anatomical specimens donated to science to further insights into the human body. The contrast between healthy bodies and those in medical distress will have a profound effect on your understanding of the human body. 301 Gervais Street. 803-898-4978.

Dr. Gail Whitman-Elia

SC State Museum

{southcarolinastatemuseum.org}

Congratulations!

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EdVenture Children's Museum was awarded the 2011 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the nation's highest honor for extraordinary civic, educational, economic, environmental, and social contributions of museums and libraries. The IMLS specifically commended EdVenture's Big Ed Health Initiative program of year-round events and activities promoting health education, EDDIE the 40-foot exhibit featuring four levels of anatomy, and their $2 million investment in new exhibits highlighting nutritional and lifestyle choices, including Body Detectives, which introduces children to the science of the human body, how it works, and the prevention of chronic diseases! {www.edventure.org}

Discover Columbia

Calling All Extraordinary Women! Extraordinary Women is Palmetto Health's new women-only membership group offering unique programs and events, plus discounts with select local businesses. Kick off the new year by learning how to Eat Smart, Feel Great! on January 25 (noon) and 26 (6 - 7 pm) with practical tips from Dr. Scarlet Taylor and Lisa Akly, RD, LD. The foods you choose can increase your energy level, keep the pounds off and help you stay healthy. To join Extraordinary Women and/or register for this program, call 803-296-2273 or visit us online at {PalmettoHealth.org/ExtraordinaryWomen} February 10 - 12. Palmetto Health is proud to be the exclusive healthcare sponsor of the Columbia Women's Show, at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center. Enjoy three days of shopping, learning and just plain fun. Stop by the Palmetto Health booth to see why women prefer the hospitals of Palmetto Health. To learn more, visit:

Women

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Rock!

Palmetto Health

www.columbiawomensshow.com

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Discover Columbia

29 Heart Days February is just around the corner and Palmetto Health Heart Hospital is bringing you 29 Heart Days to keep you heart-smart. Look for more information coming soon about a month full of special programs, events, tips, prizes and patient stories. Visit PalmettoHealth.org to find out more about our extensive Heart Hospital services, and stay tuned for details about our extraordinary 29 Heart Days. www.palmettohealth.org

Dr. Allison M. Wescott

Two clinical faculty join USC School of Medicine ObGyn

Dr. Allison M. Westcott and Dr. Allison B. Giddings have joined the University of South Carolina School of Medicine department of obstetrics and gynecology as full-time clinical faculty members. Both will treat patients and work with medical students and residents in the School of Medicine’s ObGyn department. Giddings will also see patients at the department’s University Specialty Clinics office at 2 Richland Medical Park, Suite 107. New patients can call 803-779-4928 ext 212 to make an appointment. Westcott, a laborist, will work in labor and delivery at Palmetto Health Richland Hospital. She also has developed a program for students and residents that will compliment the education provided by full-time day faculty. Westcott earned her medical degree from the University of Toledo School of Medicine in 2007 and completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Palmetto Health Richland. Giddings, who will begin Aug. 16, will join the University Specialty Clinics. Giddings earned her medical degree from the Medical University of South Carolina and completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte. She is a magna cum laude graduate of Washington and Lee University with a degree in biology. New patients can call 803-779-4928 ext 212 to make an appointment. Dr. Allison B. Giddings

Debbie Seale. Palmetto Health

Save the date! Join local residents on Saturday, March 31 at Riverfront Park for Palmetto Health's 12th annual twomile walk to raise awareness about colorectal cancer. This disease is treatable and beatable if detected early. Learn the risk factors, signs and symptoms to protect you and your loved one by visiting www.PalmettoHealth.org. All funds from the Colorectal Cancer Awareness walk stay local. To learn more, contact Palmetto Health Foundation at 434-7275.

l recta Colo er Canc Walk s enes Awar 62

Discover Columbia

Get It? They Do. Great email happenings! Please keep me on the list. Todd This is so well done. Thanks for all the hard work you put into it. I really get a lot out of the top 10 list. Dawndy I love this e-mail! I’m so glad Columbia has this. I forward it to my co-workers. Thanks you! Tracie Thank you for the great emails. As I am new to NE Columbia, I have a question with regard to Farmers Markets, do you know of any in the Sandhill area? Thank you, Greg Thanks so much for including our holiday camps in this week’s top 10 things to do! Hope you are enjoying the holiday season. Best, Megan We did have a good crowd on Friday and thank you for putting us on your top 10 list. I hope that we can continue to grow our relationship with your company. Thomas

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