2011/2012 Fort Jackson Welcome Guide

Welc me RECREATIONAL GUIDE TO FORT JACKSON & COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA

Provided by Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce

welcome | A Soldier’s Guide To Columbia • South Carolina DINING ENTERTAINMENT AREA MAPS RECREATION LODGING l

l

l

l

c1

editor Courtney Herring

publication design ETUTS - Kendall Davis art director Kendall Davis

contributors Nicole Curtis

Family Morale Welfare & Recreation, Fort Jackson

contents Welcome to Columbia

3 Welcome To Richland County, City of Columbia

& Forest Acres 5 About the Columbia Chamber 6 History of Fort Jackson & Relationship to Columbia 9 Fort Jackson National Cemetary 10 Area Information 12 Local Accommodations 13 Columbia Communities & Areas to Visit

Culture, Entertainment, Shopping & Recreation

19 20 23 28 29 31

Festivals & Events Performing Arts & Concerts Local & Outdoor Attractions Local Sports Arenas Shopping Districts International Corridor

Columbia Area Maps

32 Columbia Metropolitan Area

Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce PO Box 1360 Columbia, SC 29202

Welcome is published biannually by the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce and is in no way connected with the U.S. Army. This publication is targeted towards Fort Jackson soldiers and family members visiting or relocating to the Greater Columbia, South Carolina area. Advertising in this publication does not constitute endorsement by the U.S. Government, the DoD, or the U.S. Army.

33

City Center

Welcome to Fort Jackson

36 Victory Starts Here

37 Fort Jackson Bike Map

38

42 46 47 55

Fort Jackson Map

General Post Information

41 Family & Morale, Welfare & Recreation (FMWR) Child, Youth & School Services Food & Entertainment Recreation, Fitness & Shopping Services, Programs & More

Fort Jackson Directories

64 65

FMWR Activity Program Directory Friends of Our Forces Member Directory

Mention of any advertiser in this publication is not an endorsement by the US government, fort Jackson or MWR. welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

1

Welcome to Famously Hot Columbia, SC!

Welcome to So uth Carolina, th e Columbia Reg families compo ion and Fort Ja se a significan ckson. Its sold t portion of our iers and their are truly please heritage, our cu d you have de lture and our ec cided to reloca onomy. We te here or sim ply drop in for a visit.

With big city am enities and loca l hospitality, th a unique blen e Capital City an d of cultural an d surrounding d recreational areas offer outlets suited to every taste.

Local attraction s such as the R iverbanks Zoo offer family-fri & Gardens and endly options. the Congaree If your agenda National Park visit the Sout ca lls for educatio h Carolina Stat na l an e d M hi us storical appeal eum, EdVentu Museum of Art , re Children’s , the Statehou Museum, the se grounds, or The Colonial Li Co lu m ta bi ke a a tour of Colum fe Arena, Tow bia’s historic nship Auditor Williams-Brice homes. ium and the U Stadium offer ni ve rs it y of South Caro a full line-up of and athletic sh lina’s entertainmen owcases. t events includ ing concerts Explore the G reater Columbi a Region’s natu or spectacular ral beauty at on Lake Murray. e of the area’s Tr avel a short di three rivers scenic mount stance throug ain vistas, bree ho ut th e zy st su at e ns to partake in ets on the Atl golfing. antic and som e of the nation ’s best We are please d to join reside nts and fellow interest in our South Carolin region. We ho ians in thanki pe you and yo ng you for your the many uniq ur family will take ue features th the opportunit e Columbia M y to explore etropolitan ar ea has to offer .

Sincerely, Steve Benjam in, Co

lumbia Mayor

Paul Livingston

, Richland Coun

Frank Brunson , ty Council Chai

Forest Acres M

ayor

rman

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

3

About the Columbia Chamber CHAMBER STAFF President & CEO Ike McLeese Business Retention & Expansion John Mikula Community Development C. Grant Jackson Sales, Marketing & Business Development Stuart White Member Retention Lynn Turbeville Government Relations & Regionalism Courtney Herring Communications & Media Relations Nicole Curtis LC & LCAA | Executive Director of COR Katherine Swartz Marketing & Programs Kendall Davis Programs & Events Shannon Viera Outreach Programs Renee Joye Finance & Controller Tracy King Accounting & Benefits Administrator Cris Tucker

The Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit membershipdriven organization comprised of 1,500 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions and individuals in Calhoun, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lexington, Newberry and Richland counties. The Columbia Chamber serves as the voice of its members and the business community at large on matters of economic, educational, cultural and political concern, as well as supports and promotes the success of its members through networking, professional development, advocacy and leadership. The organization has represented the interests of the local business community since 1902.

To become a member or to learn more about the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce, as well as its events, programs and initiatives,

www.ColumbiaChamber.com.

Columbia chamber programs Annual Gala & Auction Business@Midday Business@Sunrise Business After Hours Chamber SmartBuys Chamber Issues Committee Chamber Diplomats Columbia Opportunity Resource (COR) Friends of Our Forces Golf Tournament

Information Technology Council Leadership Columbia (LC) Leadership Columbia Alumni Association (LCAA) Military Affairs Committee Northeast Area Council Palmetto Pillar Awards Teacher Recognition Reception Total Resource Campaign Women, Minority & Small Business Council

Get Connected

Database Allison Okey Information Services Margie Bostic Executive Assistant Katherine Yon Membership Sales & Services Don Clary Jill Gibson James “J.L” Boney Phil Jenkins

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

5

History of Fort Jackson & The Chamber The Military’s Importance:

The Fort Jackson & McEntire Stories

W

hen the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce (GCCC) researched its historical archives several years ago to gather information for a centennial celebration, researchers found many references among the files to the board of directors’ wishes for a military installation in the Columbia Region.

In 1917, the local business community along with local government purchased the 1,200acre Hampton Estate and donated the land to the War Department (now called the Department of Defense), Camp Jackson was established in the northeast corridor of Columbia.

Thus began a long relationship between the Columbia Chamber and what came to be known as Fort Jackson.

Now, 88 years later, the fort has become a vital part of the community. In a study recently completed by Dr. Donald Schunk of the University of South Carolina for the Governor’s Taskforce on the Economic Impact of the Military in South Carolina, Fort Jackson’s total impact on our region is about $1.3 billion annually. The impact includes military and civilian payroll, goods and services procured by the fort, expenditures by 120,000+ annual visitors, and the 25,000 military retirees currently living in Richland and Lexington counties. In addition, numerous businesses have sprung up around the fort to serve its soldiers, employees and visitors, profiting business development and entrepreneurship in the area.

6

Fort Jackson trains more soldiers than any other Initial Entry Training Center in the U.S. Army. It is the largest employer in the Riverbanks Region, with about 7,000 personnel.

McEntire Joint National Guard Base supports 2,100 military and civilian staff members from both the S.C. Air National Guard and the S.C. Army National Guard. McEntire is a textbook example of a joint military installation, with nearly equal numbers of both Air and Army Guard personnel assigned to the base.

GCCC has a Military Affairs Committee, which regularly

hosts receptions for fort commanders, the Soldier Support Institute, U.S. Army Chaplains School and the Department of Defense

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

Polygraph Operators School. The Chamber also obtained funding from prepared food taxes to invite the 120,000 visitors who come to Fort Jackson each year for Basic Graduation Exercises to spend more time seeing the attractions we have in the Columbia area.

The Columbia Chamber recently assisted the fort and McEntire in surviving the fifth round of Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) in a “Support Our Bases” campaign, leading a group of business leaders and government officials to keep both of them off the list. In the past, both bases contributed an annual economic impact of $2.6 billion. After the BRAC process, the bases gained expanded missions, increasing their economic impact on the community and sustaining many businesses near them.

As you can see, the community, Fort Jackson and McEntire have enjoyed a solid working relationship since the beginning. The community is thrilled that Fort Jackson and McEntire bases will remain the viable part of the community.

Fort Jackson National Cemetery The Military’s Importance:

National Cemetery Site Selection

As part of the largest expansion of national cemeteries since the Civil War, the National Cemetery Administration opened Fort Jackson National Cemetery on January 5, 2009. Located at the intersection of Clemson and Percival Roads, the new cemetery joins Beaufort and Florence National Cemeteries in providing burial benefits to our nation’s veterans.

The dedication ceremony held on October 26, 2008 was reminiscent of the dedication of the Soldiers National Cemetery at Gettysburg in 1863, where President Abraham Lincoln noted “from these honored dead we take increased devotion” to the cause of freedom. On that day, Honorable William F. Tuerk, VA Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs, renewed President Lincoln’s pledge to honor the unbroken line of American citizens who have

served and sacrificed in defense of our nation. It is a pledge that our staff commits to daily as we provide each veteran’s final benefit with the full dignity and solemnity that befits their service to country.

The cemetery consists of 585 acres and will provide full burial options for nearly 170,000 veterans who live in central South Carolina. The first 92 acres will be developed in two phases. The 24 acre 1A phase is complete. The second 1B phase of construction began in mid 2009 and will provide for permanent structures and cemetery features.

Upon completion in 2011, phase 1B will offer full casket and cremation burials, columbaria and a scattering garden. With hundreds of acres available for expansion, Fort Jackson National Cemetery will serve the burial needs of veterans in this region well into the next century.

In time, Fort Jackson National Cemetery will emerge as a national shrine and a centerpiece of the community. On special occasions such as Memorial Day and Veterans Day, we will gather in tribute to the brave men and women who have served our country during times of war and peace. Our new national cemetery will also become a focal point for volunteerism in the community. Veterans and nonveterans, civic groups and youth organizations will contribute in many ways towards fulfilling our nation’s final promise of care for those who have served.

We, a part of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, are honored to continue the proud legacy. To provide and maintain memorials to the service of veterans is a sacred trust a part of VA’s historic mission, found in the words of President Lincoln, “to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan.”

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

9

Columbia, SC Information Population

Housing

The Columbia area is home to more than 745,000 individuals, according to the S.C. Office of Research & Statistics/Budget & Control Board. Of this population, more than 615,000 live in Richland and Lexington counties with the remainder living in rural areas. Researchers anticipate the region’s population to reach one million by 2025. _______________________________

Median price asked for houses in 2009 in SC: $230,257

Climate

Average monthly temperatures in Fahrenheit

Min Max January 37.1 57.2 February 39.1 60.9 March 45.3 68.2 April 53.0 77.3 May 61.3 84.6 June 68.3 90.4 July 71.3 92.4 August 70.4 90.8 September 65.3 85.9 October 54.0 76.9 November 44.8 67.0 December 38.3 58.5 Average Total Precipitation 45.03“ Average Total Snowfall 1.2“

Median Income 2002 U.S. Census states median household incomes are: Calhoun County $32,736 Fairfield County $30,376 Kershaw County $38,804 Lexington County $44,659 Newberry County $32,867 Richland County $39,961 10

Median rent in 2009: $567

Median household income for houses with a mortgage: $74,512

Median household income for apartments without a mortgage: $39,549 Median monthly housing costs: $800 _______________________________

Transportation

LOCATION! LOCATION! LOCATION! Columbia residents will tell you one of the greatest benefits of living in the region is location. The Columbia area is at the center of the Eastern seaboard, making transportation efficient and economical. Whether you’re traveling to the mountains in the Upstate, the sunny beaches along the shore, or the historic sites in the Lowcountry, all of South Carolina is accessible within a three-hour drive.

Three interstates (I-20, I-26, I-77) crisscross the region, with two other major interstates (I-85 & I-95) within an hour’s drive. The Columbia Metropolitan Airport offers service from major airlines and freight carriers.

Amtrak and Greyhound Bus Lines provide additional transportation.

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

Columbia Metropolitan Airport (803) 822-5000

Central Midlands Transit Regional Authority (Bus Service) (803) 255-7100 Greyhound (803) 256-6465 Amtrak (800) 872-7245

DART (Dial A Ride Transit) (803) 255-7123

Other Regional Corporate Airport Facilities: Hamilton Owens Field (803) 771-7915; 5,400’ Runway Camden Woodward Field (803) 432-3095; 5,000’ Runway Fairfield County Airport (803) 635-3086; 5,000’ Runway Newberry Municipal Airport (803) 276-0926; 3,500’ Runway Pelion Corporate Airport (803) 894-3535; 4,350’ Runway

Columbia, SC MSA includes the following communities: • • • • • •

Calhoun Fairfield Kershaw Lexington Richland Saluda

Columbia, SC Information K-12 Schools in Richland County Public: Richland School District One 803.231.7000 www.richlandone.org

Richland School District Two 803.787.1910 www.richland2.org

Richland/Lexington School District Five 803.476.8000 www.lex5.k12.sc.us Private:

Ben Lippen School 803.807.4000 www.benlippen.com

Cardinal Newman School 803.782.2814 www.cnhs.org

Hammond School 803.776.0295 www.hammondschool.org

Heathwood Hall Episcopal School 803.765.2309 www.heathwood.org

St. John Neumann Catholic School (PreK-6) 803.788.1367 www.sjncatholic.com St. Joseph Catholic School (PreK-6) 803.254.6736 www.stjosdevine.com Timmerman (PreK-8) 803.782.2748 www.timmermanschool.com

Colleges & Universities

Hospitals and Healthcare

Allen University 803.376.5700 www.allenuniversity.edu

William Jennings Bryan Dorn Veterans Affairs Medical 803.776.4000 www.columbiasc.va.gov

Benedict College 803.253.5000 www.benedict.edu

Columbia College 800.277.1301 www.columbiacollegesc.edu

Columbia International University 800.777.2227 www.ciu.edu Limestone College 864.489.7151 www.limestone.edu

Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary 803.786.5150 www.ltss.edu Midlands Technical College 803.738.8324 www.midlandstech.edu

South University 803.799.9082 www.southuniversity.edu/columbia University of South Carolina 803.777.7000 www.sc.edu

Lexington Medical Center 803.791.2000 www.lexmed.com

Moncrief Army Community Hospital 803.751.2160 www.moncrief.amedd.army.mil Palmetto Health Baptist 803.296.5010 www.palmettohealth.org

Palmetto Health Children's Hospital 803.296.KIDS www.ch.palmettohealth.org Palmetto Health Heart Hospital 803.434.7000 www.palmettohealth.org/ hearthome.cfm Palmetto Health Richland 803.434.7000 www.palmettohealth.org

Providence Hospital 803.256.5300 www.providencehospitals.com

Webster University 803.699.0900 www.webster.edu/columbia

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

11

Columbia, SC Accommodations Where to stay When visiting Columbia, South Carolina for a military related event the Fort Jackson Welcome Center can book your reservations. The Welcome Center is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

For active duty soldiers, retirees and family members call 1-800-2766984. For unofficial visitors, limited reservations are available and can only be made 10 days in advance. To make reservations on post, call the number above.

12

For other information about where to stay in the city, contact the Columbia Regional Visitor’s Center at 803-545-0002 or toll free at 1-800-264-4884

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

Columbia, SC Communities

Five Points www.fivepointscolumbia.com

Children’s Museum, or a myriad of artists’ galleries and shops. Shop specialty stores throughout the area.

Dine or party at one of the Vista’s 45 restaurants and bars or see what the University of South Carolina campus has to offer. Find a visitors’ guide online.

Downtown/City Center www.citycentercolumbia.sc

Park your car and walk around the Five Points area, famous among University of South Carolina students for its hopping night life. During the day, the area has many quirky and hip specialty shops for browsing.

Take in an outdoor concert around the fountain in the center of the area, anchored by Devine and Harden streets. Surrounded by beautiful residences, the bustling city village has many restaurants, including outdoor dining opportunities.

From the elegant Hennessy’s to the live jazz and blues sounds at Mac’s on Main, the city center has a host of restaurants to enjoy. Take a guided tour of the historic and renovated Statehouse at the corner of Gervais and Main streets or tour historic homes throughout the area such as the Robert Mills

House or Woodrow Wilson’s boyhood home. Enjoy permanent and traveling exhibits at the Columbia Museum of Art. There are many historic churches downtown or you can visit the awardwinning Richland County Public Library on Assembly Street, where there are activities and a fun area for children.

The Vista

www.vistacolumbia.com The Congaree Vista, considered by many to be the arts and entertainment district in Columbia, is in the downtown area bordered by Elmwood Avenue, Assembly Street, Blossom Street and the Congaree River. You can do almost anything in the Vista area.

Visit the SC State Museum, EdVenture

The Robert Mills House welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

13

Columbia, SC Communities There are many areas of town that you should explore when in the capital city.

Forest Acres www.forestacres.net Excitement Awaits You

Beyond Gate Two A neighbor to Fort Jackson is the charming southern city of Forest Acres. Offering some of the area’s best dining, shopping and entertainment, soldiers and their families need not look further than Gate Two. Forest Acres boasts more than 47 excellent dining opportunities featuring a palate-pleasing lineup of delicious traditional and ethnic foods. From upscale to casual dining options, available fare includes modern American, Italian, Mexican, Asian and seafood favorites. Whether interested in a family-style atmosphere or a quiet dinner for two, Forest Acres has something to satisfy every appetite.

Department store shopping is only minutes away from Fort Jackson as Richland Mall can be found at the intersection of Forest Drive and Beltline Blvd. Specialty shops abound at Trenholm Plaza, at the corner of Forest Drive and Trenholm Rd., and at the Forest Lake Center on Forest Drive. The variety of available merchandise includes upscale women’s clothiers, coffee shops, beauty salons and specialty discount retailers.

Enjoy a quiet respite in beautiful South Carolina weather at one of Forest Acres’ four area parks – Quinine Hill, Citadel, Pinetree and 14

Idalia Parks. These neighborhood parks are oases in an urban environment featuring sheltered picnic areas and limited playground equipment for nice family-oriented outings.

The City of Forest Acres sponsors various community and tourism generating events at which our friends in the services and their families are always welcome. The semi-annual Rooftop Rhythms is held on the rooftop at Richland Mall in April and October; as is Sweet Seasons in December. Richland Mall hosts the city’s seasonal Farmer’s Market on Wednesdays from late April until late October.

The market can be found either on the roof top or the third level of the mall parking deck depending on the weather. The annual Forest Acres Festival is held in May at A.C. Flora High School featuring free admission, and lots of food and activities for the kids to do. The city is also a sponsor of numerous

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

cultural activities and exhibits that include the Columbia Museum of Art, the EdVenture Children’s Museum, the State Museum and Riverbanks Zoo. Most of the city’s events are family oriented and often feature food by local vendors and entertainment by area groups.

For the latest in what’s going on in Forest Acres check out www. forestacres.net or www.leisurefun. net.

“Forest Acres has many excellent dining, shopping and entertainment options within easy reach of Fort Jackson soldiers and their families,” said Mark Williams, Forest Acres city administrator.

“We appreciate the patronage of our Fort Jackson neighbors, and we proudly support the Friends of our Forces.”

With its unique city-within-acity atmosphere and attractive amenities for Fort Jackson soldiers, it’s obvious why Forest Acres is known as “a city apart.”

Columbia, SC Communities City Center Partnership www.citycentercolumbia.sc Columbia is leading the state in downtown development with South Carolina’s first Business Improvement District (BID). City Center Partnership was formed to manage Columbia’s downtown BID in the 36-block area bounded by Gervais, Elmwood, Assembly and Marion streets. The Main Street Marketplace is one of CCP’s signature events which is held every Friday in May, June, September and October in front of the Columbia Museum of Art at the corner of Hampton and Main streets.

The Main Street Marketplace is an open-air market that features vendors who sell art, unique crafts, photography, books, hand-designed jewelry and other handmade gifts.

A door prize is awarded to the lucky winner at each market. Attendees can enjoy live music from all genres while they shop. Marektplace hours are 10:00 am until 2:00 pm. Admission is free.

16

congaree vista guild www.vistacolumbia.com The Congaree Vista Guild is non-profit, membership organization that acts as the voice of Columbia’s downtown Vista area. The organization is

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

charged with seeing that Columbia’s Vista is a vibrant symbol of our progressive Southern city.

The Congaree Vista Guild and its members are dedicated to making the Vista the place of choice for shopping, dining, and entertainment, a national and international tourist destination, and a high-energy urban environment to live and grow businesses.

The Vista Guild hosts three main events in the Vista each year: the Artista Vista, Columbia’s premiere art gallery crawl held every April; Viva La Vista, a high energy event held in the Fall that allows participants to taste cuisine and beverages from local restaurants and bars; and Vista Lights, the official kick off to the winter holidays the Thursday prior to Thanksgiving.

Columbia, SC Communities 5 points association www.fivepointscolumbia.com The Five Points Association, incorporated since 1983, is a nonprofit organization whose principle task is ensuring that Five Points stays an integral and important part of the City of Columbia. The Association has accomplished and endured many major infrastructure, development and beautification projects over the years.

Some of these projects include: the construction of two signature fountains, a monumental streetscaping project executed by the City of Columbia, a village-wide beautification project and the creation of a master plan, design guidelines and a new zoning overlay. In keeping with beautification, each year the organization retains an

18

outside contractor to keep Five Points a beautiful and clean landmark within the city.

Not only is the Five Points Association concerned with the aesthetics of Five Points, but also the merchants, the patrons and the residents. On average, the Five Points Association boasts

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

more than 100 members each year.

Merchants in the area stay involved in the annual events and charity functions as well as contribute to an overall sense of unification and camaraderie.

Festivals & Events The Carolina Cup 803-432-6513 www.carolina-cup.org Established in 1930, The Carolina Cup is one of the two premier steeplechase races in the Southeast and is hailed as South Carolina’s largest sporting/ social event. Camden welcomes more than 70,000 visitors from all over the state. The Cup is known for its extravagant tailgating parties where all the ladies wear bright sundresses and straw hats. Gates open at 9 a.m. as picnickers roll in to prepare for the six afternoon races. Only a 45-minute drive from Columbia, many Columbia residents have made The Cup an annual tradition. Each year, the Carolina Cup is held at the end of March or the first of April.

Another event in Camden, The Colonial Cup, is held each year in November. Find more information at the web site address above.

Celebrate Freedom 803-772-2945 www.CFFThunder.com

The Celebrate Freedom Festival Air and Ground Show, Thunder is a familyfriendly event that honors those in America’s history who have made sacrifices to establish and maintain our national freedoms. Hosted by the Celebrate Freedom FoundationTM, the festival is held over Armed Forces Day and is one of the largest patriotic displays in the Southeast.

The festival offers events and attractions suitable for all ages, including precision formation flying, aerobatics, parachuting, wingwalkers, military flyovers, living history

field encampments, educational displays, heroes of freedom, a USOstyle show and much more. There are various activities held for the kids such as opportunities to climb through military helicopters and other equipment, face painting, mini basic training, rock walls and a fun zone. Additionally, there are always plenty of food and beverage vendors available to suit every appetite. The Celebrate Freedom Festival Air and Ground Show is free and open to the public.

South Carolina State Fair 803-799-3387 www.scstatefair.org

For more than 125 years, the South Carolina State Fair comes to Columbia for two weeks. Rides, food, games and concerts featuring national talent attract local and widespread attendance. Exhibits featuring art, crafts, flowers and livestock cover the fairgrounds. A large rocket near the front entrance is a popular landmark.

Groups wishing to gather at a common location often say, “Meet me at the Rocket.” The fair is held each year in October.

St. Patrick’s Day in Five Points www.fivepointscolumbia.com St. Pat’s in Five Points, a tradition a quarter of a century in the making, has become a special event not only for residents in the region, but also for people throughout South Carolina and the tri-state area. It’s a homecoming for many and a chance to celebrate all that is Irish with 30,000 of your closest friends.

Now in its 25th year, St. Pat’s in Five Points continues to spread goodwill and good times with concerts, a race, carnival, parade and other activities.

In tune with the original desire for the festival, proceeds from St. Pat’s in Five Points are donated to local charities and used for the betterment of Five Points. The event is held in mid-March each year.

columbia regional visitors center 803-545-0002 www.columbiacvb.com/calendar Visit the web site to view an online calendar of current events taking place throughout the area.

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

19

Performing Arts & Concerts

since 1964. The introduction of Music Director Morihiko Nakahara in 2008/2009 ushered in a New Era of Artistic Excellence that is allowing the orchestra to move forward and become the Midlands pre-eminent performing arts group.

The South Carolina Shakespeare Company

803-787-BARD (2273) www.scshakespeare.org

Classically trained actors who have studied at the former Folger Shakespeare Theatre in Washington, D.C., and the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art share their talents at the downtown Finlay Park amphitheatre located at 930 Laurel Street. The shows begin at 8 p.m. and are free to anyone who wishes to share the Shakespeare experience.

largest auditoriums of any Columbia theatre group. Its commitment to presenting plays and musicals of wide general appeal has earned the largest regular audience of any cultural performing organization in Columbia.

Each season brings in close to 20,000 theatre patrons of all ages.

The Township Auditorium

1703 Taylor Street 803-576-2350 www.thetownship.org The Township Auditorium began it historical presence in Richland County in 1930 with a concert performance by the legendary conductor John Philip Susa. Over the past years, almost every major performer has taken the stage at the Township, including Elvis Presley, Bruce Springsteen, Prince, Bob Hope, Jerry Seinfeld and Bob Dylan, to name just a few. Theatrical performances include the Bolshoi Ballet, The Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra and many others.

Town Theatre

1012 Sumter Street 803-779-2510 www.towntheatre.com Town Theatre is the oldest community theatre building in continuous use in the United States and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Town Theatre has one of the 20

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

Workshop theatre 1136 Bull Street 803-799-6551 www.workshoptheatre.com For more than 40 years, Workshop Theatre has been the creative domain of many of the area’s most talented actors, directors, and technicians. It is a place where those who love the dramatic arts join in a community that values the pulsing experience of live theatre.

As Workshop continues the Next Stage campaign to construct our new facility at 635 Elmwood Avenue, we will be focused on raising the necessary funds to complete the project. Workshop Theatre is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation, and all contributions to the building fund are deductible to the full extent of the law.

Trustus Theatre 520 Lady Street 803-254-9732 www.trustus.org

Seating is a unique attraction to this theatre, featuring recliner-like chairs and complimentary popcorn.

Performances run Wednesday through Saturday at 8 p.m. The shows are unique offBroadway themed and feature culturally aware live productions. Trustus also features late-night productions starting at 11:15 p.m.

Performing Arts & Concerts Columbia City Ballet 1545 Main Street 803-799-7605 www.columbiacityballet.com The Columbia City Ballet is known as one of the strongest and most versatile ballet companies in the region and in the country. Founded in 1961, the Columbia City Ballet has integrated the world of dance within the lives of Columbians. In the beginning, the Company was a community dance group staging only two performances a year. Columbia City Ballet has expanded to more than 80 major performances per year, with an audience of approximately 51,000 people each season. The Columbia City Ballet also travels to perform for other communities across the nation.

an annual high school participation, Side-by-Side, performing with the Singers, a vocal scholarship for high school students, and the Young

Sandlapper Singers music education program. American music, American sound is the branding theme.

SANDLAPPER SINGERS 803-381-5481 www.sandlappersingers.org The Sandlapper Singers, South Carolina’s premier professional choral ensemble, present a three concert series in Columbia each year and tours to other locations through the southeast. This talented group of singers founded and directed by Dr. Lillian Quackenbush, focuses on American choral music presented uniquely to include dance, local instrumental ensembles, in a state of the art auditorium utilizing lights and sound enhancements and freqeuntly presented in period costumes. The Singers’ 35 voices come from church choir directors, professional singers, bankers, physicians and music teachers. Educational efforts include welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

21

Performing Arts & Concerts colonial life arena

Longstreet Theatre

801 Lincoln Street 803-576-9200 www.coloniallifearena.com

1300 Greene Street 803-777-2511 www.cas.sc.edu/thea

Feel like taking in some college hoops? How about a national concert tour?

Or a family entertainment show? Columbia’s Colonial Life Arena, a state-of-the-art sports and entertainment arena, offers all of this and more. In its inaugural years, the Colonial Life Arena has featured notorious musical talents like Elton John, Billy Joel, Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney, Rascal Flatts and Kanye West, to name a few.

Family entertainment shows like Disney on Ice and Sesame Street Live also have drawn considerable crowds.

Located at the intersection of Greene and Sumter streets on the University of South Carolina campus, Longstreet Theatre facilitates many Universitysponsored performances. This Greek Revival structure was built in 1855 as an auditorium for the university. The staging area is a unique ‘theater-inthe-round’ with auditoriumstyle seating on four sides.

The Carolina Life Arena is the largest arena in the state of South Carolina with 18,000 seats, and the tenth largest on-campus basketball facility in the nation. Located on the beautiful University of South Carolina campus, this one-of-a-kind facility features 41 suites, four entertainment suites, and the Frank McGuire Club, a full-service hospitality room.

Columbia Marionette Theatre 401 Laurel Street 803-252-7366 www.cmtpuppet.org

Columbia features one of only 20 marionette theaters in the United States.

The theatre was founded in 1988 and can accommodate up to 300 children and adults. A 30-foot stage features 22

Nickelodeon Theater/ Columbia Film Society

puppets ranging from 12 inches to five feet. Five full-time staff members create the productions entirely in house.

Shows are offered every Saturday at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. (excluding holidays).

Koger Center for the Arts, USC 1051 Greene Street 803-777-7500 www.koger.sc.edu

The Koger Center is part of the University of South Carolina campus at the corner of Assembly and Greene streets. Ira and Nancy Koger, for whom the center is named, made substantial personal and corporate donations to contribute to the funding of the $15 million project. Music, theater and dance performances crowd the list of approximately 535 seasonal presentations.

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

937 Main Street 803-254-8234 www.nickelodeon.org This organization’s purpose is to stimulate discussion and enhance appreciation of media arts by showing classic, foreign and independent films and documentaries. Nickelodeon Theater is an all volunteer driven, nonprofit organization. Films run every day at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday matinees begin at 3 p.m.

South Carolina Philharmonic

721 Lady Street, Suite B 803-771-7937 www.scphilharmonic.com An independent 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, the South Carolina Philharmonic entertains, educates, enriches and excites diverse audiences throughout the Midlands and beyond

Local Attractions Riverbanks Zoo & Garden 500 Wildlife Parkway 803-779-8717 www.riverbanks.org Riverbanks is home to more than 2,000 magnificent and fascinating animals and one of the nation’s most beautiful and inspiring botanical gardens. The lush 170-acre site features dynamic natural habitat exhibits, scenic river views, spectacular valley overlooks and significant historic landmarks.

For more than 30 years, Riverbanks has provided individuals, families and groups with a common place to connect with and learn about the world’s wildlife and wild places.

Twice awarded the Governor’s Cup for South Carolina’s Most Outstanding Tourist Attraction, Riverbanks is the premier family choice for education and recreation in the Southeast.

Check the web site for the updated animal demonstration schedule.

Columbia Museum of Art

and children coming back countless times. The museum also features a gift shop with a wide variety of art-themed treasures.

EdVenture Children’s Museum 211 Gervais Street 803-779-3100 www.edventure.org

Experience the joy of learning and discovery at EdVenture Children’s Museum in the Vista area of Columbia. Hands-on experiences entice children of all ages, including a special play area for children under age 3. The first thing visitors see when they walk through the front doors is Eddie, a 40-foot, 17.5 ton child made of reinforced, molded plastic that children can climb on, in and through. The museum also features a gift shop with a wide variety of toys and educational treasures.

South Carolina State Museum

Main & Hampton streets 803-799-2810 www.columbiamuseum.org

301 Gervais Street 803-898-4921 www.museum.state.sc.us

The Columbia Museum of Art is located on Hampton Street in downtown Columbia. Visitors enjoy the specialized permanent exhibits as well as marvel in the transient exhibits that remain in Columbia for only a few months. This element keeps adults

Hands-on fun and learning can be found on each of the four floors of the South Carolina State Museum facing Gervais Street. This museum proudly carries the title of the Southeast’s largest and most comprehensive museum. Renovated in 1893, the

museum is housed in its biggest artifact – The Columbia Mill along the Congaree River. Exhibits focus on the four disciplines of South Carolina’s art, history, natural history and science/ technology.

Richland County Public Library 803-799-9084 www.myRCPL.com The Richland County Public Library serves Midlands citizens through its 242,000-square-foot Main Library in downtown Columbia and 10 library locations located throughout Richland County. The library offers a variety of materials, services and programs.

From the latest bestselling book titles to the most popular DVD releases; from answering reference questions to providing computer training; from children’s storytimes to downloading eBooks, the Richland County Public Library has something for everyone.

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

23

Local Attractions Historic Columbia Foundation 1616 Blanding Street 803-252-1770 www.HistoricColumbia.org Historic Columbia Foundation tells the stories of people, places and progress in Columbia and Richland County. Featuring guided tours, cultural programs, educational activities, historic gardens, special events and a museum shop, visits become memorable experiences.

Annual events include the Jubilee: Festival of Heritage, Holiday House Tours and Scarecrows in the Garden.

Serving as a leader in heritage tourism for 50 years, the Foundation manages four historic house museums and their associated artifacts.

24

Finlay Park

Lake Murray Country

930 Laurel Street 803-545-3100

803-781-5940 www.lakemurray.com

www.columbiasc.net/parksandrec

Named after a former mayor of Columbia, Finlay Park is a 14-acre peaceful retreat within downtown Columbia. Since its official opening in 1991, Finlay Park has become one of Columbia’s most popular recreation areas. Located in the central part of the city, it provides an excellent setting for concerts, festivals, picnics or long walks. A waterfall cascades down a rocky landscape at the back of the park. The park has a stage, benches and swings, two playgrounds and another ‘island stage’ located in a half-acre pond.

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

With more than 500 miles of scenic shorelines, Lake Murray is a premier recreational outlet in the Riverbanks Region. Comprising an area of 78 square miles, the lake is situated in Lexington, Saluda and Newberry counties and provides hydroelectric power to the region. The Saluda Dam, once the largest earthen dam in the world, is 1.5 miles wide and 208 feet high. Scenic views of the dam and lake can be seen by motorists traversing the dam via Highway 6. The lake provides a multitude of outdoor activities such as diving, waterskiing, boating, fishing, hiking, bird watching and camping.

Local Attractions Sally Salamander Walking tour www.columbiasalamander.com I’m Sally, Columbia’s newest ambassador! As you look for me around Columbia, be sure to notice the beautiful architecture and cultural icons of South Carolina’s “Famously Hot” capital city. We pride ourselves on maintaining our rich history as we build for the future. When you spot me along your journey, feel free to pet me.

Like our residents, I too am friendly and full of Southern graciousness.

Sally Salamander is a walking tour of downtown Columbia featuring numbered, bronze statues of South Carolina’s state amphibian, the spotted salamander. The tour was presented by the Leadership Columbia class of 2009, and is maintained by Columbia Metropolitan Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Stop by Columbia Regional Visitors Center, the first stop on the tour, to pick up a brochure and map or visit columbiasalamander.com.

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

25

Outdoor Attractions campsites with facilities, lakeside camping, vacation cabins, fishing and boat ramp.

Avid bird watchers and nature enthusiasts should visit Lunch Island, also known as Doolittle or Bombing Range Island, to witness the thousands of purple martins that come here to roost, and the reason this area has been officially deemed the first purple martin sanctuary in North America.

Congaree National Park

Congaree National Park 100 National Park Road 803-776-4396 www.nps.gov/cong

lake murray Public Access There are five public access points in Lexington County, including:

SCE&G Park and Ramp Site: Facilities and amenities include picnic tables, shelters, a public swimming area, public restrooms and boat ramp.

SCE&G North Recreation Area: Facilities and amenities include public restrooms, picnic tables, shelters, fishing piers and boat ramp.

Hilton Recreation Area: Facilities and amenities include picnic tables, shelters, public restrooms and boat ramp.

Bundrick Island: Facilities and amenities include hiking trails and swimming but offer no public restrooms or parking.

Larry Koon Landing: Facilities and amenities include picnic tables, public restrooms and boat ramp. There is one public access point in Saluda County.

SCE&G Park: Facilities and amenities include public restrooms, picnic tables, fishing and boat ramp.

26

Dreher Island State Recreation Area 3677 State Park Road 803-364-4152 www.discoversouthcarolina.com Twelve miles of shoreline and 348 acres comprise three islands on Lake Murray, a 50,000-acre reservoir in the Midlands. The islands are linked to the mainland by a causeway and two bridges. These islands provide the perfect environment for water activities, lakeside camping and picnicking. Lakeside villas and a nature trail are also features of the recreation area. Facilities and amenities include public restrooms, picnic tables, shelters, playground, store, hiking trails, primitive camping,

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

The last significant tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the U.S. covers the 22,000 acres of Congaree Swamp. With towering pines and giant hardwoods, Congaree National Park includes one of the highest canopies in the world and some of the tallest trees in the Eastern United States.

Visitors are encouraged to observe and photograph along the boardwalks that travel through the unique habitat of a South Carolina swamp.

The Congaree National Park is not only a visitor’s attraction but also a space for research. The staff of the park promote the preservation of natural habitats and encourage visitors to learn more about conservation and environmental protection through guided tours, informed staff and an educational visitors center. The park is located 20 miles southeast of Columbia off SC Route 48. Guided nature walks are available at 1:30 p.m. on Saturdays.

Camping, canoeing, fishing and 18 miles of hiking trails are free to the public.

Outdoor Attractions Three Rivers Greenway 803-765-2200 www.riveralliance.org Nestled along the banks of the Broad, Saluda, and Congaree Rivers, and uniting the cities of Columbia, West Columbia and Cayce, the Three Rivers Greenway is the perfect venue for a multitude of activities.

The recent addition to the West Columbia Riverwalk and the creation of the Cayce Riverland Park Connection, provide visitors countless new opportunities, including fishing hotspots as well as breathtaking views of the pristine islands and Columbia skyline.

These new portions also offer the opportunity to explore over a mile of lighted boardwalk with spectacular views of the Congree River and access to the old dam and historic Cayce Locks.

Visitors to the Three Rivers Greenway will come in close contact with the three rivers, while enjoying an array of natural habitats, historical points of interest and recreational opportunities. Whatever your interest, ability, or recreational aspiration, there are so many reasons to get to the Greenway!

Highlights include: 9 miles of all purpose paths; access to three rivers; lighted pathways; emergency call boxes; dog friendly; dozens of picnic areas; wildlife lookouts; paddle or launch into the Congaree River; ADA accessible, makes it perfect for baby carriages, wheelchairs, and skates; clean restrooms; a series of wayside exhibits that tell the history and environment of the area; lots of great places to eat, shop, stay and live nearby!

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

27

Local Sports Arenas Colonial life arena 803-576-9200 www.coloniallifearena.com Since its opening in November 2002, South Carolina has embraced the Colonial Life Arena as the leading source of entertainment in the state. Home to the University of South Carolina men’s and women’s basketball teams, the Colonial Life Arena is the largest arena in South Carolina, and the 10th largest oncampus basketball facility in the nation. In recent polls conducted

by Pollstar Magazine, the Colonial Life Arena was ranked the #1 arena in the Carolinas and the #2 college building in the nation.

CApital City Stadium

803-254-FISH www.blowfishbaseball.com

stadium seats 82,500 people.

Among the top 15 largest stadiums in the country, Williams-Brice also has been used for large concerts and filming of major motion pictures.

CAROLINA FIELD 800-4SC-FANS

Home of the Columbia Blowfish of the Coastal Plain League (collegiate summer league), this stadium has a lighted natural grass surface with seating for 5,500 people. The Coastal Plain League is the nation’s hottest summer collegiate baseball league, now in its 10th season. Featuring 15 teams playing in North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia, the CPL is certified by Major League Baseball and gives college players the chance to refine their skills with wooden bats during the summer months.

On-field promotions and Blowie, the Blowfish mascot, make attending a game fun for the whole family!

Williams-Brice Stadium 800-4SC-FANS

Home of the University of South Carolina Gamecocks, this football 28

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

Home of the Carolina Gamecocks baseball team, this stadium seats 5,000 people. The USC baseball team has been among the best in the nation and attending games has become a tradition for Columbia and South Carolina residents. It is an enjoyable experience for the whole family.

Shopping Districts Columbia Place 803-788-4676 www.shopcolumbiaplace.com Located at the corner of Parklane and Two Notch roads – accessible from I-20 and I-77 Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10am-9pm, Sun. 12pm-6pm

Columbia Place features more than 100 national, regional and local retailers including anchors such as Columbia’s only Macy’s department store, Sears and a two-story Old Navy as well as many specialty retailers such as The Limited, New York and Company, Bath and Body Works, Charlotte Russe, Victoria’s Secret, PacSun and Waldenbooks. Columbia Place’s Military Deals program offers a variety of promotions and savings for members of the military. Military members must simply show their military identification to receive these special offers.

Columbiana Centre

803-732-6260 www.columbianacentre.com Located off I-26 at Exit 103 (Harbison Boulevard) Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 10am-9pm, Fri and Sat. 10am-10pm, Sun. 1:30pm-7pm

Columbiana Centre is the premier shopping destination in the South Carolina Midlands by providing an atmosphere of casual sophistication and by offering many premier retailers including bebe, Coach, J.Jill, Williams-Sonoma, Ann Taylor Loft, Banana Republic and Victoria’s Secret.

Columbiana Centre is conveniently located and easily accessible from all parts of the Columbia area and has more than 100 great stores for your shopping pleasure including American Eagle, Aeropostale, Build-ABear, Abercrombie & Fitch, Hollister & Co, Starbucks, Coldwater Creek, Gymboree, and Bath & Body Works.

Dutch Square Center

803-772-8430 www.dutchsquare.com Located at the corner of Bush River and Broad River roads – accessible from either I-20 or I-26.

Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10am-9pm, Sun. 12:30pm-6pm

All roads lead to Dutch Square Center, South Carolina’s first & favorite mall featuring a 14 screen movie theater in the mall, a food court, Burlington Coat Factory, Belk, Office Depot & a host of stores with something for everyone.

richland mall

803-782-7575 www.Richlandmall-sc.com Forest Drive and Beltline Boulevard Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10am-9pm, Sun. 12:30pm-6pm

Located in the heart of Columbia, SC, Midtown at Forest Acres is a unique collection of shops, dining, and entertainment. Enjoy stores such as Belk, Barnes & Noble Booksellers, TGI Friday’s, and Regal Cinema. With

covered parking just steps away from stores, Midtown at Forest Acres is a great place to be.

Village at Sandhill

803-419-0235 www.VillageAtSandhill.com Clemson Road at Two Notch Road in Northeast Columbia Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10am-9pm, Sun. 12:00pm-6pm

Village at Sandhill is the largest shopping, dining, entertainment, and living destination in the state.

Stroll through the charming outdoor streets and shop at department stores like Belk and JCPenney and over 100 specialty shops. Dine in over a dozen fine restaurants, night spots, or fast service destinations. Take in a movie at the Regal Sandhill Cinemas 16. Buy the family groceries at Super Bi-Lo or renovate your house with Home Depot. And there’s luxury residential living with the Promenade at Sandhill condominiums or the Residence at Sandhill apartments. Village at Sandhill is truly Columbia’s only one stop destination for every part of your life.

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

29

International Corridor Experience the Vibrant Multi-Cultural World of Decker Boulevard, Richland County’s Official International Corridor!

Decker Boulevard is a vibrant two-mile stretch of highway that encompasses the best of international cuisine, multi-cultural goods and services and a safe and blossoming nightlife, thanks in part to the Comedy House, a number of area restaurants and shops, and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department. Located less than a mile from the Boyden Arbor Gate of Fort Jackson off Percival Road and approximately two miles from the Forest Drive/ Strom Boulevard, Decker Boulevard is a stone’s throw from Columbia Mall and easily accessible from I-20, I-77, Percival, Two Notch and Parklane Roads.

The thriving commercial district features countless Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Indian, Vietnamese and Mexican restaurants, as well as several international bakeries and shops. Decker Boulevard is home to a fresh Seafood Market, a Carnicería, several Asian Markets, a Western apparel shop and a hair salon, which caters to the art of African braiding.

In fact, there a several hair salons and barbers shops which cater to a multiethnic clientele.

In addition to the numerous international offerings, there are restaurants that feature the standard American fare like McDonalds, Chic Fil A, Rush’s, Longhorn Steakhouse, Sonic, Taco Bell and CiCi’s Pizza. It is also extremely easy to conduct business along Decker Boulevard as there are several insurance agencies, a DMV (located in Decker Mall) as well as a long term storage facility, several auto dealerships, gas stations and realtors

located along the highway, with many of these businesses offering military discounts.

David Whigham is the owner of the highly successful Comedy House located at 2760 Decker Boulevard, “I grew up in this area and in a sense locating the club here is like coming home to me. Decker is the most unique place in the Columbia area and visitors can find just about everything from A- Z. This great place proves that people from all ethnicities and cultures can peacefully co-exist and respect one another. I also think that it is very important that as a community that we business owners

give back to the soldiers that have given so much to us.”

On Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday Whigham offers soldiers $1 tickets with a proper military ID.

So if you are looking to experience the very best that Columbia area has to offer ---come to Decker where the world awaits you!

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

31

Columbia Area Maps: Metropolitan Area

Columbia Area Maps: City Center

Welcome to Fort Jackson

Welcome to Fort Jackson

Victory Starts Here!

We invite you to review the following pages and learn more of what Fort Jackson & Family and MWR have to offer.

Fort Jackson is the largest Initial Entry Training Center in the Army, providing training to almost 50% of the men and 80% of the women who enter the service each year.

While some installations in recent years have experienced downsizing and closure, Fort Jackson has added new schools and training institutions.

These include the Soldier Support Institute (SSI), the Chaplains Center and School, and the Center for Credibility Assessment.

Fort Jackson is a city within a city that encompasses some 52,000 acres of land and more than 1000 buildings.

Soldiers, civilians, retirees and Family members make up Fort Jackson and its post population of approximately 20,000 military and civilian personnel. The installation instructs an average of 50,000 Soldiers in basic training and advanced individual training annually. An additional 19,000 attend courses at its advance training schools. Fort Jackson employs 4,300 civilians and provides services for more than 100,000 retirees.

36

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

Ft. Jackson Bike Route Map

• • •

• • • • • •

Cycling on Ft Jackson (FJ) is a privilege; not a right Failure to abide by these rules is grounds for the violator’s cycling privileges on FJ to be revoked Cyclists riding on Ft Jackson are to obey all SC motor vehicle traffic laws & regulations and to obey FJ policies, procedures and regulations as set forth by the Commanding General Cyclists must ride single file on Marion & Strom Thurmond Blvd.

Use of headphones & earphones while cycling on FJ is strictly prohibited Must enter thru an authorized Gate; i.e., Gates 1, 2, 4, & 5 Must stay on paved roads or designated off road trails Cyclist are not allowed on “Closed” areas or on Red Diamond Road Cyclist must wear high visibility items or reflective material such as tape, belts, vests or other reflective accessories that increase visibility welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

37

Family & Morale, Welfare & Recreation Family & Morale, Welfare & Recreation (FMWR) provides for the physical, cultural and social needs, as well as the general well-being of our military members and their Families. Every dollar spent at FMWR facilities is reinvested in quality of life programs to benefit our ever-growing Fort Jackson Family.

H H H FMWR is for all of your life. H H H You are ... a Soldier, an employee, a volunteer and a parent. You are also a spouse, a sibling, a retiree, a neighbor and a friend.

Whether you are on duty or off duty, at the office, in the field or at home — FMWR aims to be there with programs and services to enhance the quality of your life.

Throughout the following pages, you will find information about everything from golf and military clubs on Fort Jackson to lodging and special services.

FMWR supports you with commu nity building activities, events, a wide variety of services, food, beverage and entertainment venues and celebrations that bring people together.

Like everybody else, you need balance and time to recover from a hard day’s work. FMWR has many ways for you

to relax, recharge, renew and rejuvenate.

Every dollar spent at FMWR facilities is reinvested in quality of life programs to benefit YOU— our growing Fort Jackson Family.

Take your time, browse, get to know us and let us know what you think.

H H For all that you are...

FMWR is here for you!

H H welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

41

Child, Youth & School Services Child, Youth & School Services provides the Fort Jackson community with quality child development options and youth programs. These programs reduce the conflict between parenting responsibilities and mission requirements, enhance the development of children and engage them in constructive activities during discretionary times.

New to Fort Jackson? Call the Outreach Services Director at 751-4869 to schedule your child’s Welcome Wagon visit!

Outreach Services

The Scales Avenue Child Development Center is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children and certified to operate by Department of Defense. Hours are Monday through Friday 0515-1830.

3392 Magruder Avenue 803-751-4865

Parent Central Services • One-stop enrollment/sign up service for Families interested in registering their children for child care and/or other youth services • Information on all CYSS program options • Vacancy listings • Babysitter referral • Installation-to-installation referral for military Families moving to another duty station • Sign up for sports and instructional classes

Kids On Site - for meetings, training and other events child care where the children are cared for on site in a preapproved space.

Mobile Recreation - summer camp

type activities provided at designated community playgrounds during the summer months.

Parent Education/Involvement Opportunities CYSS-wide events:

Penny Carnival, Jackson Jams, Jingle Bell Jog & Reindeer Games, Sweetheart Ball, Literacy Fair, Easter Egg Hunt, Month of the Military Child,

42

Boys & Girls Club Day for Kids, and Fall Festival.

Child Development services

Fort Jackson has two child development centers, 10-15 family child care homes, and eight child development homes to meet the needs of Fort Jackson. These programs serve the needs of Soldiers and civilian employees by providing excellent and dependable child care.

Curriculum for all child development programs regardless of setting is child oriented with an emphasis on creative, age-appropriate activities which encourage children to acquire knowledge about themselves and their environment.

Scales Avenue Child Development Center (CDC)

4581 Scales Avenue 803-751-6221/ 803-751-6230

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

Scales Avenue CDC provides the following types of care: •F ull day care for children from 6 weeks to 6 years of age • Part day care (less than 30 hours per week) for children 6 weeks to 6 years of age • Before and after school care for children in kindergarten • Summer camp program for children completing kindergarten • Hourly care for individuals needing care before or after the operating hours of the Hood Street CDC • Fees for care are based on total Family income

Hood Street Child Development Center (CDC) 4585 Hood Street 803-751-1970/ 803-751-1972 The Hood Street Child Development Center is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children and certified to operate by Department of Defense. The hours are Monday through Friday 0730-

Child, Youth & School Services 1730 and 1st & 3rd Friday evenings 1800-2300. Special openings available upon request for unit/organization functions.

The Hood Street CDC provides: • Hourly child care for individuals needing less than 25 hours of care per week on a reservation basis.

Walk-ins are accepted if space and staff are available.

• Transportation or escort services are provided to/from on-post schools for mid-day and end-of-day times, but not for morning drop off.

• Fees for care are a flat rate of $4 per hour per child.

Family Child Care

3392 Magruder Avenue 803-751-6234 Family Child Care homes offer care for children 4 weeks to 12 years of age by trained and certified Family Child Care providers located on post in government quarters or off post in residential areas. FCC providers, their spouse and children over the age of 12 must pass required background checks and participate in a Family interview. FCC homes, once certified, are monitored and inspected on a regular basis. The FCC Program offers self-employment for military spouses enabling them to add to the Family’s

income while staying at home with his/her own children.

• FCC program is certified to operate

by Department of Defense • FCC homes are certified to operate by the Garrison Commander • Home environments • Small group settings • All types of care: full day, part day, before/after school, hourly, extended hours and long term care • Fees for Family Child Care are agreed upon between the provider and the parent • FCC Subsidy Assistance Program helps keep fees in FCC homes comparable to those in the Child Development Centers

Child Development Homes

5955 A/B Parker Lane 803-751-7169/803-751-7170 Mon – Fri, 0430-2000 Sat. 0500-1800 The Child Development Homes are a cross between center-based care and Family child care. Child & Youth Program assistants provide care for children in a home-based setting.

Operating hours vary based on the home.

Child, Youth & School Services 5975 Chesnut Rd / 5614 Hood St 803-751-1136/ 803-751-6387 This program bridges the gap between Child Development Services and Youth Services and provides quality programs for youth 1st through 5th grade. The SAS Program operates from the Youth Center and is accredited by the National After School Association, Certified by Department of Defense and Affiliated with Boys & Girls Clubs of America and 4-H since 1999.

Occasional users receive 5 hours free for the afternoon program a month and weekend hours as part of CYSS registration; additional afternoons available for a flat rate $4 per hour.

The hours are Monday – Friday, 04300830, before school; 1400-1830, after school; Saturdays,0500-1830, and Sundays, 1400-1800.

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

43

Child, Youth & School Services Extended hours care for individuals needing care beyond 12 hours a day or 5 days a week for mission on a case-by-case basis • Monthly calendar of activities available for occasional users

Middle School and Teen Program (MS/T) 5975 Chesnut Road 803-751-6387 The SAS Program offers the following services & programs: • Before and/or After School Care • Transportation/escort services for on post schools & select off-post schools • Regular scheduled after school activities include computer lab, homework center, arts & crafts, game room, USDA approved snack & sports/fitness • Fees are based on total Family income for regular scheduled programs • 4-H clubs offered weekly

44

The Middle School and Teen Program operates from the Youth Center. As a Boys & Girls Club affiliate and 4-H partner, the MS/T Program offers age appropriate activities for youth in 6th grade through 12th grade.

The Middle School and Teen Program is certified to operate by Department of Defense. Hours are Monday through Thursday, 1430-2100; Fridays, 14302200; Saturdays, 1300-2200; and Sundays, 1400-1800.

Supervised activities in 4 service areas include sports, fitness and health; arts, recreation and leisure,

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

life skills; citizenship and leadership; and academic support, mentoring and intervention.

Programs and services offered include: • Monthly calendar of events for open recreation developed jointly by staff and youth • No cost after school program for Middle School, youth • Leadership Clubs (Torch & Keystone) • 4-H Clubs which meet weekly • Workforce Preparation Program (teens 14 and older may apply for Recreation Aid positions at the Youth Center through the NAF Personnel Office) • Dances, lock-ins and block parties • Community service opportunities • Youth of the Month & Youth of the Year Program • Homework & tutoring assistance • Technology instruction • Games room and sports tournaments • After school snacks • HIRED! Apprenticeship Program

Child, Youth & School Services Youth Sports 5975 Chesnut Road 803-751-5040 A great place for youth to learn sportsmanship, practice new skills and make new friends. We place emphasis on fun and fundamentals rather than on competition. A variety of team and individual sports are offered throughout the year: flag football, soccer, basketball, cheerleading, baseball, softball, volleyball, track and cross country. In addition, we host a variety of fitness related special events and activities to encourage youth to become physically fit and develop habits that support a healthy life style.

The Youth Sports Program is certified by Department of Defense.

Program hours vary by season of play and sport. Sports sign up is handled by the CYSS Parent Central Services. Sports staff can normally be contacted at 751-5040, Monday - Friday, 1300 -1800.

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

45

FMWR Food & Entertainment week, with a wide selection of your favorite foods. The club also hosts graduation dinners as well as superb holiday buffets.

OFFICERS’ CLUB

3630 Semmes Road 803-782-8761 GREAT LUNCHES, ACTIVITIES CATERING & MUCH MORE

The Officers’ Club is a membership club open to all officers (active duty or retired, Reserves, National Guard) and DoD civilian employees GS-7 and above.

Membership Benefits include: • Best Sunday brunch in the area with a dazzling array of special dishes, and a complimentary glass of champagne • A pricing policy that favors members with an average 25% discount on food and beverages • Additional monthly specials with discounts beyond the pricing policy • Professional catering services with guaranteed lowest prices in town • Members may also “sponsor” individuals for catered functions (who are not eligible for membership) • Monthly birthday salutes to members during their birthday month • A guest policy that allows members to bring friends, neighbors or business associates to the club for dining 46

and entertainment • Monthly dinner specials and special events • Lunch at a bargain! Unbeatable lunch prices with made-to-order sandwiches, burgers and soups (plus always free soft ice cream) • A monthly newsletter mailed directly to your home • Dazzling holiday buffets The Officers’ Club is open to everyone, regardless of rank or membership each Tuesday - Friday for lunch.

Regularly scheduled entertainment is available in the club. If it’s musical entertainment you’re looking for, the NCO has something for everyone ranging from oldies to hip-hop, R&B, variety and disco. The NCO Club also presents a full range of catering services for your special event. There’s no event too large or too small.

Magruder’s Sports Bar and Grill 3305 Daniel Circle 803-790-0064

Ft. Jackson NCO Club 5700 Lee Road 803-782-2218 CLUBS HAVE IT ALL!

The NCO Club is open to all enlisted personnel (active duty, students, retired, Reservist, National Guard, and DoD employees GS-6 and below).

The club offers a variety of delicious foods, beverages and great entertainment.

The NCO Club’s dining room service offers breakfast and lunch 7 days a

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

Magruder’s offers a great atmosphere to get together for good times with friends and coworkers. Magruder’s has plenty of pool tables, dartboards and video games to create friendly competitions. Plus big screen telvisions, great short-order food, juicy chicken wings, movie nights, Karaoke and more.

Get the whole gang together for Happy Hour Monday – Friday, 1630 – 1830.

FMWR Recreation, Fitness & Shopping th e c e n t e r o f i t framing to fitness to retail MG ROBERT B. SOLOMON shopping to special events.

CENTER 6510 Strom Thurmond Boulevard 803-751-4056 The Solomon Center is a one-ofa-kind facility located on Strom Thurmond Blvd. The Solomon Center is home to a variety of activities ranging from custom

FORT JACKSON GOLF CLUB

3652 Semmes Road 803-787-4437 The Fort Jackson Golf Club (FJGC) is considered by many as the finest golf operation the military has to offer. The facilities feature two well-maintained championship courses, state-of-the-art practice facilities, an attractive 10,000 square foot clubhouse, a well stocked Pro Shop, snack bar and lounge.

The Solomon Center includes: • Andy’s Fitness Center • The Frame Shop • The Retail Zone • Victory Travel • Special Events area with 2,800 seating capacity for concerts, Carolina pines. The 17th tee offers the player a beautiful view of the Columbia, South Carolina skyline.

The Old Hickory Course, though not demanding by its length, is routed over lakes and wetland areas and re-

a l l !

ceremonies, special events • Conference and Meeting areas

wards accurate tee shots. The red tees play 5,164 yards, while the championship tees measure 6,624 yards. The Old Hickory Course was selected to host the All-Army Golf Trials Camp and Armed Forces Championship in 2011.

Each year more than 72,000 rounds of golf are played over the two courses.

FJGC opened in 1949, with the original 18 hole course designed by George Cobb. In 1991, Arthur L. Davis added 20 new holes to 16 of the original holes to make up the current 36-hole complex.

The Wildcat Course plays 5,426 yards from the red tee markers and backs up to 6,721 yards from the championship tees. The course offers generous fairways and strategically placed bunkering as it winds its way through the rolling hills and South

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

47

FMWR Recreation, Fitness & Shopping VICTORY TRAVEL

6510 Strom Thurmond Boulevard 803-751-5812 / 803-751-5804 FILLING YOUR TRAVEL NEEDS! Vacationing and travel should be an adventure not a hassle. Let Victory Travel make all your travel arrangements.

Located inside the Solomon Center, Victory Travel is your one stop for all your travel needs. We can help you with your planning for

50

a day at the beach, an exotic cruise, vacations, holiday travel, and more.

With a state-of-the-art reservations system and a highly knowledgeable, professional staff — we can assist you with any type of travel from airline tickets, hotels, car rentals, trains and much more. Not only can we assist with your travel needs, but we also offer reduced rates to theme parks, Biltmore Estates, Columbia Riverbanks Zoo, Disney World and many other places. So, come visit us for your next leisure adventure.

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

FMWR Recreation, Fitness & Shopping ANDY’S FITNESS CENTER

6510 Strom Thurmond Boulevard 803-751-4177 Andy’s, located in the Solomon C e n te r, is your most convenient and well-equipped, o n - p o s t workout facility.

Andy’s Fitness Center houses contemporary, high quality equipment including free weights, weight stack machines, cardiovascular pieces with cardio-theater and an indoor running/ walking track.

A variety of aerobic classes from beginner and senior classes, and step sessions are available at convenient times.

Andy’s offers the total relaxation of saunas and steam rooms in both men’s and women’s locker rooms.

The Retail Zone

6510 Strom Thurmond Boulevard 803-751-4178

The Frame Shop

6510 Strom Thurmond Boulevard 803-751 - 4018 The Retail Zone is located in the Solomon Center. We carry a unique assortment of Fort Jackson memorabilia and merchandise ranging from koozies, magnets, license plates, Army of One banner flags and an assortment of Army mom and dad merchandise. We also have several lines of eye catching T-shirts, jackets, sweatshirts and caps. Next time you need that special and unique gift, or something to remind you of your stay at Fort Jackson, come see us.

Firehouse ProductionS

1444 Marion Street 803-751-4835

GET FIT STAY FIT

systems allow us to personalize a wide assortment of products which includes plaques, sculptures, humidor boxes, glassware and more. We also have a state-of-the-art monogram machine for producing monogrammed shirts, jackets, and caps. If you’re looking to make a one-of-a-kind T-shirt or promotional products, come see us and let our talented staff help. We’ve got all the gear to make it happen, and we can fulfill all of your custom product needs.

The Frame Shop is located in the Solomon Center and offers custom framing at competitive prices, specialty matting, framed guidons, and dry mounting.

Located at 1444 Marion Street, we are your one-stop shop for personalized and customized gifts, premiums and awards. Our personalized engraving welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

51

FMWR Recreation, Fitness & Shopping CENTURY LANES

strike zone eatery Phone In Orders 803-751-4656

4464 Gregg Street 803-751-6138 If you enjoy the sound of bowling, look no further than Century Lanes Bowling Center. Unlike bowling centers of the past, Century Lanes is modern with 24 lanes, automatic scoring, pro shop, bumper bowling for children and parties for everyone.

Open bowling is always a popular choice for the weekends. Night leagues bowl Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday in the fall, and

Palmetto Falls Water Park

Adjacent to the Solomon Center 803-751-3381 Looking for splashing summer fun?

The Fort Jackson Palmetto Falls Water Park is now open to the general public Tuesday- Friday, unless you have a season pass. Park hours are 1100 - 1900, Tues – Sat, closed on Mondays, and 1300 – 1900 on Sundays.

The park includes: • A 10,000 sq. ft. Family pool

After you’ve worked up a hunger bowling, enjoy the best short order food on Fort Jackson, serving lunch. Try our hamburgers, cheeseburgers, hot dogs, nachos, chicken sandwiches and even pizza.

Tuesday and Thursday in the summer. Come try the energy of our unique black light bowling on Saturday nights.

• Five water slides • 1 600 sq. ft. splashdown pool • A lazy river stretching 800 linear feeT • Spray park • Snack bar

Children in grades 6 and below must be accompanied by an adult. Visitors should enter through Gate 2, the Forest Drive entrance. Please have your driver’s license, current registration and proof of insurance ready as you enter. As you leave the visitors check-in lane you will be on Strom Thurmond Blvd. Get in the left hand lane. At the second traffic signal take a left on Marion St., followed by a right on Teliaferro. You will see Palmetto Falls Water Park from Marion St. Recently added Palmetto Falls Spray Park is located within the Pal-

metto Falls entertainment area. An alligator tunnel, palm trees, lily tree, two water cannons and a computer automated fountain will provide hours of interactive fun with the safety of the littlest visitors in mind.

New Water Park Provides Lots of Family Fun! • Toddlers to Seniors Enjoy Facility 52

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

FMWR Recreation, Fitness & Shopping Palmetto Greens Miniature Golf Next to Palmetto Falls Water Park 803-751-4218 Palmetto Greens Miniature Golf opened in early spring of 2005.

This new scaled down 18-hole golf facility is located adjacent to the Solomon Center and Palmetto Falls Water Park.

The facility provides hours of fun for every age group. Although miniature golf has been a favorite game for many decades, it has evolved away from its early day predecessors of windmills and obstacles into a sport.

Today’s miniature golf courses are “golf in miniature” facilities featuring miniature replicas of regulation golf’s “Famous Holes.” Expect undulations, contours, moguls, water, sand and vegetation traps on Palmetto Greens.

Palmetto Greens offers the player many of the challenges

WESTON LAKE

Leesburg Road 803-751-5253

Camping, hiking trails, mountain bike trails, swimming and more.

Weston Lake is a wonderful recreational choice for any time of year.

On site you will find the following: • Campgrounds with RV hook-ups • Fully-equipped non-smoking cabins • Hiking/biking trails • Watercraft for rent • Swimming beaches • Fishing access • Picnic shelters • Community house • Pavilion • Playgrounds

of real golf. Enjoy 18 holes of golf surrounded by a lush, botanical garden setting with meandering streams and waterfalls, beautiful fountain displays and realistic rock sculpturing.

This facility provides a park-like setting for the whole Family.

Heise Pond Semmes Road 803-751-3484

Heise Pond is used for group and individual hunting trips, camps, fishing and more.

Twin Lakes Semmes Road 803-751-3484

Scenic Family-oriented park with: • Picnic tables • Playgrounds • Walking trails • Easy access to Palmetto Trail*

* Trail winds its way thru Post over bridges and thru wetlands and connects with statewide Palmetto Trail that will eventually run across the state.

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

53

FMWR Recreation, Fitness & Shopping MARION STREET STATION 4522 Marion Avenue 803-751-3484

Marion Street Station is here to meet all your outdoor and recreational equipment needs.

There are also a variety of classes available designed to help you safely enjoy the best in outdoor recreation as well as several outdoor adventure excursions each season.

seeing, NASCAR races, scuba diving and more.

We provide rentals of: • Tents • Bicycles • Canoes & Kayaks • Canopies • Camping gear • Backpacks • Camper trailers • Fishing gear • Cooking kits • Fishing boats • Pontoon boats

Classes include nature hikes, rock climbing, scuba diving, kayaking, fly fishing, hunter’s awareness and more. Some of the trips include fishing, hiking, horseback riding, sight-

512 Trolley Café Corner of Marion Street & Semmes Road

Wildcat Skate Park Behind the NCO Club

Park is designed for use by skateboarders, in-line skaters and BMX bikers. BMX bikes are only allowed on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Hours of Operation: Dawn until Dark. Skate At Your Own Risk. Safety equipment is required: elbow pads, knee pads and helmets.

Code of Conduct: • No foul language • No graffiti or stickers • No littering • No tobacco or alcohol products permitted • No spectators or non-participants inside the skate area

54

The 512 Trolley Café opens early in the morning to serve hot and cold espresso drinks, as well as fruit smoothies, to the Fort Jackson community. The 512 Trolley is open Mondays-Fridays, 0700-1300 (0700 - 1700 on Family Days) and is located next to Semmes Lake on the corner of Marion Avenue and Semmes Road. The trolley was made especially for Fort Jackson and is fully equipped with restaurant quality appliances. Customers can expect to find high-quality espresso based drinks much like they would find in the big box and specialty coffee houses.

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

FMWR Services, Programs & More P OOL S

-

FO R

KNIGHT POOL

3296 Magruder Ave 803-751-4796

Knight Swimming Pool is a newly renovated, heated, indoor, 50-meter, 7-lane Olympic size facility. Open year-round with heated water for chilly fall and winter days and warehouse style doors that open onto sun

IN T O

H EA LT H

&

EN J O Y MEN T

decks during warmer weather.

Knight Pool also includes: •Complete locker room facilities with towel service •Trained lifeguards onduty •Swimming lessons for adults and children •Easy access pool steps •Handicap Lift, Swimming equipment – kickboards, pull buoys, hand paddles, CPR/AED training + recertification •New Saline System (saltwater) •Separate areas for lap & open swim-

T E A M

ming •Water basketball and water volleyball •Water aerobics •Lifeguard training •Fitness area with exercise equipment •Available for private parties

LEGION POOL

2761 Semmes Road 803-751-4987 Is another outdoor pool that is open to ID card holders and their guests during the summer months.

COM P E T I T ION S ?

SPORTS & FITNESS

3392 Magruder Avenue Sports/Fitness/Aquatics Manager, 803-751-7146 Sports Coordinator, 803-751-3096 Fitness Program, 803-751-5768 Coleman Gym, 7803-51-4758 Perez Fitness Center, 803-751-6258 Vanguard Gym, 803-751-4526 Sports enthusiast, we’ve got your game! With the four-field softball complex, Patton Stadium, Cole Park, Semmes Road Tennis Courts and Lee Road Soccer Complex - there are games being played regularly.

Intramural programs at company and battalion levels include: • Basketball • Co-ed volleyball • Flag football • Men’s and women’s co-ed baseball For the whole community, post level sports include:

• Men’s and women’s basketball • Men’s and women’s co-ed softball • Men’s indoor soccer In addition, the Sports Branch host annual special events such as the

Army 10-Miler Teams, Strongman Contest, power-lifting meets, Spring Fling Tennis Tournament, Raquetball and Bi-Triathalon Events.

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

55

FMWR Services, Programs & More V i c t o ry B i n g o … W i n n i n g S tarts H e r e .

Victory Bingo

• Every Sunday we offer more than $36,975 in prizes.

12-500 Huger Street 803-751-3411 At Victory Bingo we give away more than 2.5 million dollars in prizes every year. Played on Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, we have never given away less than $7,000 at every session.

• Every Tuesday and Thursday we offer more than $25,000 in prizes.

• Every Friday we offer more than $40,000 in prizes.

A variety of prizes from $20 and up are won by some lucky player every time we play! Victory Bingo’s 10 regular games have guaranteed pay-outs of $100, $200, $500 and $1,000 on weekdays. On the weekends, there are $500 to $1,000 guaranteed payouts on regular games!

Small fun games begin anytime we have five players present. These lucky early birds can win $20 to $50 just for

showing up early!

The $5,000 grand prize game card can be purchased for just $2. If you get a bingo within five numbers called, you win the $5,000! If no one wins in 5 numbers, we keep playing for fabulous consolation prizes.

Victory Bingo also offers $1,000, $2,000 and up to $100,000 jackpot games. You can’t win, if you don’t play!

Victory Bingo is open to all service members, military and DoD retirees, DoD civilians and their guests.

Call the bingo hotline at 751-3411 for more information. Will you be our next BIG winner?

R E A D A G R E A T B OO K L A T EL Y ?

Thomas Lee Hall Library 4679 Lee Road 803-751-5589

Fort Jackson’s Thomas Lee Hall Library provides the best Fort Jackson’s Thomas Lee Hall Library houses a wide variety of popular print reading material, DVD movies, CD audiobooks and Playaway MP3s for patrons of all ages. Library users also have access to thousands more downloadable audio and e-books via the online catalog or AKO.

56

There are computers available for internet access, free WiFi, scanning services and limited printing.

For 24/7 homework and research assistance, the Library provides a large selection of searchable electronic databases filled with the most current encyclopedias, e-books, newspapers, scholarly journals, magazines and more.

You will also find Family literacy programs, storytimes, teen and adult book clubs, crafting, gaming and a summer reading program (with prizes) going on at the Library.

All members of the Fort Jackson community, with valid military identification cards, may check out materials. Students attending any of the schools at Fort Jackson are required to provide a copy of their orders in addition to their valid military identification.

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

FMWR Services, Programs & More S E L F

H E L P

•

S E R V I C E

•

S TA B I L I T Y

Army Community Service

5450 Strom Thurmond Blvd.

Room 120 803-751-5256 • 1-800-337-3445 Army Community Service offers a comprehensive array of programs and services dedicated to maintaining the readiness of Soldiers, Families and communities by fostering selfreliance, resilience, and stability.

It is the commander’s principal Family readiness agency, providing comprehensive, coordinated, and responsive services that support readiness of Soldiers, civilian employees, and their Families during peace and war.

Programs offered: • Army Family Team Building (classes) • Employment Readiness (job search assistance, employment skills, and classes) • Exceptional Family Member Pro-

Auto Craft Shop

gram (EFMP) (advocacy, direct assistance, respite care) • Family Advocacy (victim advocacy & prevention classes) • Financial Readiness (emergency financial assistance, counseling, assistance with debt liquidation, consumer advocacy, consumer & financial classes) • Mobilization & Deployment Readiness (classes, FRG support) • Relocation Readiness (lending closet, classes, relocation assistance) • Volunteer Corps (recruitment, training, placement, and recognition of volunteers) • Information & Referral (key source of integrated information) • Outreach (education/prevention, support networks) • Soldier and Family Assistance Cen-

ter (services provided to Warriors in Transition) • Survivor Outreach (advocate for Survivors of Active Duty Fallen Soldiers, linking Family members to on and off-post programs and organizations, assistance with financial planning, advice, money management, education and advocacy) Facebook: facebook.com/FTJACKSON.ACS.OUTREACH Twitter: FtJacksonACS

5669 Lee Road 803-751–5755

This is a perfect place for do-ityourself repairs on your vehicle!

There are 24 work-bays for common repairs from tune-ups to oil changes, to body repairs and painting.

Special features include: • Safe, clean work areas • Excellent variety of tools • Informative shop manuals • Car wash facilities • Knowledgeable staff ready to assist you if needed

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

57

FMWR Services, Programs & More S o u th e r n H o sp i ta l i ty Is A T rad i t i o n FORT JACKSON LODGING The Fort Jackson Inn provides all guests services including central reservation, registration, cashiering and checkout. We are dedicated to serving Soldiers and our community.

The Welcome Center, 7550 Benning Ave., is open 24 hours to serve you.

RESERVATIONS: Active duty, reservists, retirees, and Family members, for reservations, room availability, or to contact in-room guests and all other guest services call 1-800-276-6984 or 1-803-7829802.

UNOFFICIAL VISITORS: Due to mission dictated priorities, limited reservations may be available.

Reservations may be made 10 days in advance. For advance reservations on post, call 1-800-276-6984.

AMENITIES: All rooms have irons, ironing boards, color televisions, cable, refrigerators, microwave ovens, telephones with voice mail, free local calls and free guest laundry rooms.

OFF-POST HOTEL: For an off-post hotel convenient to Fort Jackson, please call Victory Travel at: 1-800221-3503, Monday through Friday from 0800-1700.

Please call the Fort Jackson Inn for assistance. For reservations, to contact in-room guests, and all other guest services, call 800-276-6984 or 803-782-9802 .

58

Whether your visit is for business or pleasure, our staff stands ready to make your stay with us a memorable one.

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

FMWR Services, Programs & More LIG H T S ,

C A ME R A ,

Videorama

Bldg. 4159 Hill Street 803-790-4210 / 803-751-4162 Videorama captures priceless memories of the basic training experience as well as other significant events for Soldiers when requested. All videos and DVDs produced are high quality, and show actual footage of each Soldier’s unit. Our videographers have followed Soldiers though nine weeks of basic training and filmed their challenging moments creating a professionally-produced keepsake that will be treasured for years to come. Videos/DVDs of the basic

A C T ION !

training graduation ceremony are also available.

Videorama sales associates are present at all Family briefings, graduation dinners, and graduation ceremonies. Videorama accepts cash, personal checks, Mastercard/Visa and American Express.

In addition to basic training productions, Videorama’s unique array of services include: • Taping your special event or ceremony • Editing personally taped videos • Duplicating tapes (non-copyrights

only) to DVD format • Making commercials for your business

Any size project can be mastered by the professionals at Videorama and prices are quoted for individual jobs.

Call today for more details. E-mail orders to FtJackson_Videorama@conus.army.mil Mail your orders to: Videorama • Bldg 4159 Hill Street • Fort Jackson, SC 29207

K EE P I T S Q UE A K Y CLE A N !

SGT. SUDS CAR WASH

Strom Thurmond Boulevard Americans love their cars.

Many people devote a lot of time and energy into taking care of their cars. For others, it’s a chore that they put off as long as possible, usually to the point when it is either too embarrassing or too dangerous to drive. Now, it has become easier for everyone on Fort Jackson to keep their vehicle squeaky clean.

Sgt. Suds Car Wash is located next to Burger King on Strom Thurmond Boulevard.

The car wash is a self-service, 24-hours a day operation.

Customers can choose to use the coin operated bays or an automatic drive through. Bays are taller than the average car wash to accommodate buses and military vehicles. Patrons may pay with cash or credit cards for the drive through service. The self-service bays are coinoperated.

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

59

FMWR Services, Programs & More v o l u n t e e rs VOLUNTEER PROGRAM 3392 Magruder Avenue 803-751-5444 For those of you who are not in the paid workforce, there are countless opportunities to become volunteers at Fort Jackson: • Extend your network of professional acquaintances • Develop creativity • Explore new interests • Perform a much-needed service for someone in your community

annual special events

m ak e

d i ff e r e n c e

Army Family Team Building (AFTB)

Installation Volunteer Opportunities

4410 Early St 803-751-6315 / 751-5737 “Family Members Helping Family Members” The purpose of AFTB is to standardize all Army personal and Family preparedness training programs. AFTB is training for a way of life that prepares everyone in America’s Army to function at one’s highest level, in any situation and with minimal outside support.

This training improves personal and Family preparedness, which enhances overall Army readiness.

AFTB is a volunteer program that trains volunteer Family members to teach other Family members about Army life.

American Red Cross – volunteer opportunities at Moncrief Army Community Hospital or in the American Red Cross Station • Cub/Boy Scouts – help boys ages 5-11 in Cub Scouts or help boys ages 11-18 in Boy Scout Program • Girl Scouts – Help girls ages 5-18 in a Girl Scout Program • Be a mentor one day a week for 30 minutes for a minimum of six weeks • Mayors – volunteers that reside in a housing area on post that commit at least 10 hours per month to help their housing community • Thrift Shop – open Tuesday, 09301400, and Thursday, 0930-1730 • Youth Sports – coaches and assistant coaches for all sports

There are numerous special events held on Fort Jackson each year, including concerts, dances, bike rides, outdoor recreational events, golf tournaments and much, much more. Many of these activities and events are held at Family and MWR venues such as the Officers’ Club, NCO Club, Magruders, Fort Jackson Golf Club, Century Lanes Bowling Center and the Solomon Center. The listing below is a sampling of events or activities that are always held annually. Dates and times may vary - so it is always best to watch The Leader (post newspaper), log onto the Fort Jackson website, contact the Family and MWR Marketing Division, or call the installation operator at (803) 7517511.

• January - Martin Luther King Day • February - Black History Month • March - Women’s History Month • April - Month of the Military Child and Child Abuse Prevention Month, Retiree Appreciation Day-Last Saturday in April • May – Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Volunteer 60

a

Week, Volunteer of the Year Ceremony Hall of Fame, Armed Forces Day • June – Army Birthday • July – Torchlight Tattoo (normally July 4) • August – Community Awareness Day • September – Hispanic Awareness Month • November – Army Family Week, Thanksgiving, Army Families of the Year, Military Family Appreciation Month • December – Block Leave, Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

FMWR Services, Programs & More pr i vat e

s e c t o r

h e l p i n g

revenues are used to support vital Family and MWR programs on the installation including childcare, fitness, recreational opportunities, concerts and more for Soldiers and Families.

COMMERCIAL SPONSORSHIP & ADVERTISING SALES

f i l l

n e e ds

Sponsors can support individual events, an entire yearly program or simply provide products and giveaways for attendees. They may provide full underwriting or partial financial support for one or more Family and MWR programs.

3392 Magruder Avenue 803-738-2487

Our mission is to support Family and MWR events and programs by obtaining private sector funding, services or goods in exchange for promotional opportunities within our military community. Sponsorships seek to partner local businesses with Family and MWR programs that allow businesses marketing dollars to achieve maximum benefit for everyone. Family and MWR sponsorship and advertising

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

61

FMWR Activity Program Directory ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICES 803-751-5256 5450 Strom Thurmond Blvd, Room 120

ACS Relocation & Outreach 803-751-5256 5450 Strom Thurmond Blvd, Room 1011 AUTOCRAFT 803-751-5755 5669 Lee Road

CENTURY LANES BOWLING CENTER 803-751-6138 4464 Gregg Street Strike Zone Eatery 803-751-4656 child development homes 803-751-7169 / 803-751-7170 5955 A/B Parker Lane

CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER - HOOD ST 803-751-1970 / 803-751-1972 4585 Hood Street CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER - SCALES 803-751-6221 4581 Scales Avenue CHILD, YOUTH & SCHOOL SERVICES 803-751-4865 3392 Magruder Avenue

FAMILY & MWR MARKETING 803-751-6990 3392 Magruder Ave Joe E. Mann Bldg fire house productions 803751-4835 1444 Marion St GOLF CLUB Golf Pro Shop 787-4437 3652 Semmes Road

64

Administrative Office 803-787-4344 Bogey’s Snack Bar 803-751-6367

MARION STREET STATION OUTDOOR RECREATION 803-751-4948 2169 Semmes Road Twin Lakes & Heise Pond Aachen Range MAGRUDERS SPORTS PUB & club 803-782-2218 3305 Daniel Circle

Middle School/Teen program Youth Center 803-751-6387 5975 Chesnut Road School Age Services 803-751-1136 / 803-751-6387 Youth Sports/Fitness 803-751-5040 NCO CLUB 803-782-2218 5700 Lee Road

OFFICERS’ CLUB 803-782-8761 3630 Semmes Road

PALMETTO FALLS WATERPARK 803-751-3381 Adjacent to the Solomon Center PALMETTO greens mini golf 803-751-4218 Adjacent to the Solomon Center

PEREZ FITNESS CENTER 803-751-6258 / 803-751-3096 4149 Sumter Street

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

POOLS Knight Indoor Pool 803-751-4796 3296 Magruder Avenue Legion Outdoor Pool 803-751-4987 2761 Semmes Road RECYCLING CENTER 803-751-4208 5671 Lee Road

solomon CENTER 803-751-4056/ 803-751-4058 6510 Strom Thurmond Blvd Andy’s Fitness Center 803-751-4177 Frame Shop 803-751-4018

SPORTS OFFICE administration 803-751-6947 3392 Magruder Avenue THOMAS LEE HALL LIBRARY 803-751-5589 4679 Lee Road

VICTORY BINGO 12-500 Huger Street Bingo Hotline 803-751-3411 (for more info) VICTORY TRAVEL CENTER 803-751-5812 6510 Strom Thurmond Blvd

VIDEORAMA 803-790-4210 / 803-751-4162 4159 Hill Street Mon-Wed 0900-1500 WESTON LAKE 803-751-LAKE (5253) Leesburg Road

Friends of Our Forces Member Directory Currently, there are over 100,000 active, retired, guard and reservist military men and women in the Columbia area. With these overwhelming numbers in mind, a few years ago the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce and Columbia Metropolitan Convention & Visitors Bureau initiated a project to give the business community a way to display support for these local military men and women. The program was named Friends of our Forces.

Businesses participate by agreeing to offer a discount of their choice to customers with valid military identification. Restaurants could offer a “Buy One, Get One Free” deal, hotels can establish a reduced military rate and retail stores could offer 10% off on purchases. In return, this program increases the customer base for businesses and publicly supports our nation’s defense department and armed forces. Friends of our Forces is free and a win-win opportunity for both military personnel and local businesses.

Since Friends of our Forces came to be, over 80 businesses have gotten involved and pledged to support our military men and women. If you or your business would like to become a part of this program, please call Courtney Herring at 803-733-1148.

Any Lab Test Now 9003 Two Notch Road Columbia, SC 29223 803-414-3379 25% off any lab test over $49.00 (exception of paternity)

Bluebird Property Management 1817 Pickens Street Columbia, SC 29201 803-661-6782 Waive application fee of $50

BMW of Columbia 5919 Two Notch Road Columbia, SC 29212 803-404-5400 $500 off your best deal or 10% off parts & service Bojangles 5260 Forest Dr Columbia, SC 29206-4999 803-782-2360 10% off total purchase

Bojangles 4301 Fort Jackson Blvd Columbia, SC 29205-2145 803-787-9843 10% off total purchase Bojangles 937 Bluff Rd Columbia, SC 29201 803-256-6002 10% off total purchase Bojangles 91 Clemson Rd Columbia, SC 29229 803-699-8761 10% off total purchase

Bouncerific 921B Longtown Road Columbia, SC 29229 803-513-7878 $1 off admission. $3 frequent bouncer card. $20 off annual membership.

Buffalo Wild Wings 4500 Devine Street 10056 Two Notch Road

5570 Sunset Boulevard Any active or retired military w/ID receives 25% off on Mondays.

Candlewood Suites 921 Atlas Road Columbia, SC 29209 803-727-1299 Special rates on all suites.

Chesnut Cottage Bed & Breakfast 1718 Hampton St Columbia, SC 29204-3212 803-256-1718 15% off total purchase

Chic Styles & Trends Hair Boutique 2229 Decker Blvd, Ste E Columbia, SC 29206-3501 803-788-0260 5% off any haircare purchase

Columbia Place Mall 7201 Two Notch Rd Columbia, SC 29223 803-788-4678 Several discounts. Contact Customer Service.

Mention of any advertiser in this publication is not an endorsement by the US government, fort Jackson or MWR. welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

65

Friends of Our Forces Member Directory Comfort Inn 911 Bush River Road Columbia, SC 29210 803-798-5101 10% off from best available rates (BAR) Comfort Suites Hotel (Two Notch) 153 Daulton Drive Columbia, SC 29223 803-678-4266 $79.99 military rate (regularly $109.99-$119.99) Courtyard Downtown at USC 630 assembly street Columbia, SC 29201 803-799-7800 50% off best available rate

Courtyard Northeast Columbia 111 Gateway Corp Blvd Columbia, SC 29203 803-476-0199 Per diem rate on hotel rooms upon availability Days Inn 133 Plumbers Road Columbia, SC 29203-3236 803-714-7200 10% discount off rack rate

Dr. Books / Five Points Books 718 Santee Ave Columbia, SC 29205-2223 803-799-7182 10% off total purchase

Extra Space Storage 2500 Decker Blvd.

Columbia, SC 29206 803-788-0723 First month free and 5% discount after.

66

Fairfield Inn Columbia NorthwestHarbison 320 Columbiana Drive Columbia, SC 29212 803-732-4436 Special rates.

Firestone Tire & Service Center 7204 Parklane Rd Columbia, SC 29223-7614 803-788-1810 10% off regular price Glass Manor Motel 5810 North Main Street Columbia, SC 29203-6264 803-754-1914 5-10% off total

Good For The Sole 631 Harden St, Ste D Columbia, SC 29205-2242 803-254-9488 10% off regular-priced merchandise

Goodyear/Gemini Auto Svc #2323 1400-02 Gervais Street Columbia, SC 29201 803-799-5950 10% off any service

Goodyear/Gemini Auto Svc #2368 4650 Forest Drive Columbia, SC 29206 803-782-5005 10% off any service Goodyear/Gemini Auto Svc #2369 4520 St. Andrews Road Columbia, SC 29210 803-772-1343 10% off any service Goodyear/Gemini Auto Svc #2371 4327 Fort Jackson Blvd Columbia, SC 29205 803-782-3240 10% off any service Goodyear/Gemini Auto Svc #2376 2105 Clemson Road Columbia, SC 29229 803-699-1711 10% off any service Hampton Greene Apartments 500 Gills Creek Pkwy Columbia, SC 29209 803-783-3265 50% off move in fees

Goodyear/Gemini Auto Svc #2333 141 Harbison Blvd Columbia, SC 29212 803-732-9522 10% off any service

Hertz Rental Cars 100 Warner Dr Columbia, SC 29223-4509 803-786-2900 Discount varies based on availability, call for details

Goodyear/Gemini Auto Svc #2359 706 12th Street W Columbia, SC 29169 803-794-8581 10% off any service

The Holiday Inn 8105 Two Notch Road Columbia, SC 29223-6220 803-736-5600 $85.00 (plus tax) a night

Goodyear/Gemini Auto Svc #2348 102 Old Cherokee Road Lexington, SC 29072 803-358-0604 10% off any service

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

Hooter’s On Two Notch 7711 Two Notch Road Columbia, SC 29212 803-419-3456 15% off Non-alcohol

Friends of Our Forces Member Directory Jani-King of Columbia 5000 Thurmond Mall, Suite 110 Columbia, SC 29201 803-748-8611 5% discount on purchase of a franchise, must produce DD214 for veterans, 0% financing on purchase

Jersey Mike’s Subs 4717 Devine Street Columbia, SC 29209-1002 803-787-0945 Tuesdays: Retired Military get 20% off; Wednesdays: Active Military get 20% off Jiffy Lube 4414 Devine St Columbia, SC 29205-3612 803-782-9999 10% off total purchase

Limestone College 400 Arbor Lake Drive Suite 800 Columbia, SC 29223 803-691-3016 50% regular tuition rate Mel’s Shoe Repair Service 1523 Taylor Street Columbia, SC 29201-2918 803-799-9475 10% off total purchase Midas Muffler 2701 Millwood Ave Columbia, SC 29205-1220 803-254-5068 10% off labor

Midland’s Pressure Washing 117 Wigmore Lane Lexington, SC 29072 803-665-1386 25% off pressure washing, driveway & window cleaning

Monterrey Mexican Restaurant 7260 Parklane Rd Columbia, SC 29223-7614 803-699-6248 15% off (no discount on alcohol) New York High Style 6908 Two Notch Rd Columbia, SC 29223-7541 803-462-0203 10% off total purchase Original Pancake House 4840 Forest Drive Columbia, SC 29206 803-782-6742 10% off total purchase

Pampered Plants Florists 8816 Two Notch Rd Columbia, SC 29223-6364 803-788-0318 10% off total purchase

The Pest Bureau 9367 Two Notch Road Columbia, SC 29223 803-788-2847 free general pest control service to family of deployed

Pods of Columbia 2118 Commerce Drive Chapin, SC 29033 803-422-5064 up to 10% off for rental & delivery. MILT Prudential Midlands Real Estate 7011 Garners Ferry Road Columbia, SC 29209 803-409-0830 $500 Lowes Gift Certificate at Closing Quality Inn 8104 Two Notch Rd Columbia, SC 29223 803-736-0822 60/30 plus tax

Residence Inn- Northeast Columbia 2320 Legrand Rd Columbia, SC 29223 803-476-0199 Per diem rate on hotel rooms upon availability SCORE 1835 Assembly St, #1425 Columbia, SC 29201-2430 803-765-5131 free small business consulting

Signs By Tomorrow 7364 Two Notch Road Columbia, SC 29223 803-462-0433 10% off total purchase of in store produced signage.

Smart Phone Medic 902 Harden Street Columbia, SC 29005 803-354-3275 10% off any repair service

South University 9 Science Court Columbia, SC 29229 803-935-4393 Special rates. Call for appointment.

Springhill Suites Columbia Downtown/The Vista 511 Lady Street Columbia, SC 29201 803-978-2340 Special rates.

Stockade Storage 512 Percival Road Columbia, SC 29206 803-743-9441 10% off total

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

67

Friends of Our Forces Member Directory Storesmart Self Storage 2330 Legrand Road Columbia, SC 29223 803-865-6650 25% discount offered on any size unit, month to month Strictly Running 736 Harden St Columbia, SC 29205-1645 803-799-4786 10% off total purchase Sub Station II 6420 Garners Ferry, Ste F Columbia, SC 29209 803-783-0337 10% off total purchase

Time Warner Telecom 1401 Main Street, Ste 102 Columbia, SC 29201 803-753-5050 10% off total purchase

68

Total Images By Carleen 4558 Storkland Avenue Columbia, SC 29206-1245 803-782-1191 10% off total purchase

Towne Place Suites by Marriott Columbia/SE Fort Jackson 250 East Exchange Blvd Columbia, SC 29209 803-695-0062 Per diem rate of $85. complimentary deluxe breakfast

Upper Cervical Health Centers 140 Wildewood Park Drive, 4A Columbia, SC 29223 803-736-3700 Complimentary consultation & complete upper cervical brainstem evaluation

welcome | Recreational Guide To Fort Jackson & Columbia • South Carolina

Watkins Imports 2735 Commerce Dr Columbia, SC 29205-4405 803-256-4331 10% off all services

The Whitney Hotel 700 Woodrow St Columbia, SC 29205-1758 803-252-0845 1 bedroom - $93, 2 bedroom - $113 Zesto on Decker 2300 Decker Blvd Columbia, SC 29206-2311 803-699-9983 10% off total purchase Zesto on Forest Drive 3239 Forest Dr Columbia, SC 29204-4035 803-782-4454 10% off total purchase

The Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce

...making Columbia the most military-friendly community in America

To learn more about the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce Friends of Our Forces & Military Affairs Committee visit www.columbiachamber.com