Lake Murray Country is home to a wide variety of arts, from colorful murals and arts districts to national touring musicians and unique festivals – there is something for everyone. Newberry, South Carolina has redefined itself as an arts town. Home to the South Carolina Clay Conference, the Newberry Arts Center hosts prestigious potters from all over the world each fall. Explore the Cayce River Arts District with its colorful murals and sculptures crafted by talented local artists. Located near the Cayce Riverwalk Park the arts district is a must-see during your visit! From national touring Broadway musicals at the Koger Center for the Arts to the Village Square Theatre where young thespians are learning valuable life skills, theatrical arts abound in Lake Murray Country. In this episode we talk with: Marguerite Palmer, Arts Program Coordinator City of Newberry and Director of the Newberry Arts Center (NAC) The Newberry Arts Center offers programs for all ages, including classes and workshops led by professional artists. NAC is a fun and safe place to learn, gather and explore art with friends, old and new. NAC offers various events open to the public throughout the year. These include the SC ClayCon Pottery Sale, Plein Air events and exhibitions, Newberry Photography Group meetups and shows, K-12 Newberry County School District Art Show, the City of Newberry Gingerbread competition and more! In 2015 NAC created the South Carolina Clay Conference (SC ClayCon) and took up the mantle of “Moving Clay Forward.” The conference brings together potters and clay artists in SC and the surrounding region for education, evaluation, and celebration of the many techniques to which clay lends itself. The three-day conference aims by design to recognize and reveal to its attendees the influences and heritage of clay in South Carolina, as well as to encourage ongoing conversations about the future of clay in the region in which we live. Look for the fall 2023 date coming soon! Learn more about the Newberry Arts Center’s classes and workshops and stop by to purchase artwork made by a local artist or one of NAC’s students or teachers! Contact the Newberry Arts Center for more information about the South Carolina Clay Conference.Address: 1200 Main Street, Newberry, SC 29108Phone: 803-321-1022Storefront Hours: Tuesday – Friday: 10 – 5 PM Mayor Elise Partin, City of Cayce “No matter what time of the year it is, there are a number of great things to do in and around the Cayce area.” The City of Cayce River Arts District, in the heart of historic Cayce, is a perfect hub and doorway to all things creative in the city! Located where State Street and Frink Street meet, the city has been actively engaged in revitalizing this area, specifically through “previtalization” efforts. This process, appropriately described as “the art of what’s possible,” has already led to the redevelopment of several derelict and underutilized properties into new and thriving businesses and has led to the development of an active artist group. The City partnered with local artists to create compelling and beautiful artistic installments that capture the imagination and inspire creativity. Paid for, in large part, from community and national arts grants this project, now attraction connects people and places through the arts. The area has seen an increase in property values, public safety, and overall quality of life. Take a walk and explore the Cayce River Arts District – a must-see during your visit! Enjoy art studios, the Riverwalk, craft beer, pottery classes, brunch + coffee, and live music, all on State Street.Learn more about the City of Cayce’s River Arts District. Maddie and Hudson Freeman, Junior Company Actors at Village Square Theatre The dynamic sibling duo, Maddie and Hudson Freeman bring their passion for the stage to their local community theater. Both avid actors, they relish the thrill of performing in front of a live audience and have a deep commitment to the community. Whether it’s a classic play or a contemporary production, these two talented performers always give their all and leave audiences wanting more. With their love for the art and dedication to the community, Maddie and Hudson Freeman are sure to continue making a positive impact on the theater world. They credit their theatre training as helping to provide valuable life lessons and help prepare them in their careers down the road. Village Square Theatre is Lexington’s only community playhouse offering 6 shows per year including junior productions, literary dramas, and musicals. The theatre has served the community for over 60 years and continues to enhance the quality of life in the Lexington community. Learn more about Village Square Theatre’s current season and purchase Tickets at the Box Office.Address: 105 Caughman Rd, Lexington, SC 29072Phone: 803-359-1436 Capital City/Lake Murray Country is the official source for all things Lake Murray Country. Find information on attractions, dining, hotels, outdoor recreation, fishing, golf, and events to plan your next trip. Explore the “Top Southern Destinations” of Columbia, Lexington, Newberry, and Saluda. For more information about the region visit LakeMurrayCountry.com or call 803-781-5940 | 1-866-SC-Jewel. Subscribe Make sure to subscribe and follow us so you never miss an episode!Apple | Spotify | Google | Stitcher | iHeart Radio | Podcast Addict | Podchaseror wherever you get your podcasts! Tags: Arts, Culture, Experiences, Theatre, Theater, Community, Arts Center, Pottery, Clay, SC Clay Conference, Cayce Arts District, Mural, Public Art, Arts District, Art Classes, Lexington SC, Cayce SC, Richland SC, Newberry SC, Columbia SCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Visit Lake Murray Country Podcast: Explore Lake Murray Country’s Rich History South Carolina has played a pivotal role in our nation’s history for centuries. With many monumental events happening right here in Lake Murray Country, there is so much history to discover! Many locations offer FREE admission like the South Carolina Confederate Museum and Relic Room. Stop by and explore their new exhibit this Veteran’s Day honoring those who fought in the Vietnam War. Explore the town of Blythewood’s rich history with a visit to the Blythewood Historical Society and Museum and take a peek back in time. Did you know that America is turning 250 years old? The South Carolina Sestercentennial Commission (SC250) is preparing for a celebration unlike any other by honoring South Carolina’s vital role in the American Revolution. From museums to historic sites and more, we’ll help plan your next visit to the region and make it a historic one. In this episode we talk with: Joe Long, Education Curator for the South Carolina Confederate Museum and Relic Room. The museum is the oldest with “the longest name in town,” says Long and dates back to 1896. It was started by wives and widows of confederate soldiers and quickly amassed more war relics through the years. Visitors can see items dating as far back as the Revolutionary war through the 21st century and view the best selection of South Carolina historic flags around. Including South Carolina’s only surviving Union flag from the Civil War. A regimental flag flown by South Carolina freed slaves who fought for the North and worked alongside Harriet Tubman. On Veteran’s Day, the secondary gallery will reopen [post covid] with an exhibit dedicated to the Vietnam war. This display harkens back to the origins of the museum where stories were collected along with items. “The roots of our museum began with going out to veterans of the Confederate army at the time - who were still alive, and they had things and they had stories. And the stories came along with the items” said Long. “And now it is our Vietnam veterans that our staff have been working with to get both the items and the stories - that give meaning to these things because history is really about people when it comes down to it.” The exhibit honors the soldiers who fought and died, many of whom did not receive proper recognition and credit said Long, he hopes the exhibit helps to address this. “See a lot of history in one day,” by visiting the South Carolina State Museum, the South Carolina Confederate Relic Room, and EdVenture Children’s Museum. Visit the FREE, SC in Vietnam exhibit at the South Carolina Confederate Museum and Relic Room beginning Friday, November 11, 2022. Address: 301 Gervais Street, Columbia, SC 29201Phone: 803-737-8095Museum Hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 – 5:00 PM | Open 1st Sunday of the month Wade Dorsey, Reference Supervisor at the SC Department of Archives and History & Board member of the Blythewood Historical Society. From its humble beginnings in a resident’s living room, The Blythewood Historical Society was created to “preserve the history of our little community,” says Dorsey. With commercial development of Blythewood on the rise, community members set their sights on preservation and with the gift of a historic house dating back to 1904, a museum was born. Blythewood traces its origins back to an 1840s water and fueling village named “Doko”. During that time much of the rural countryside was developing along the railroad line that connected Charlotte and Columbia. In 1879 the town was incorporated and renamed Blythewood; a name adopted from the nearby girl’s school. Dorsey remarks that “Girls from all over the south came to the area to attend the Blythewood Female Academy during the 1860s.” A largely agrarian and timber community, Blythewood has seen substantial growth in the last 20 years as a burgeoning suburb of Columbia. While the iron horses of yesteryear helped to establish the town on the map, it’s living-breathing horses that have become synonymous with Blythewood. Many farms and stables call Blythewood home along with the University of South Carolina equestrian team. History envelops you while visiting Blythewood. Many of the buildings in the town, including town hall, located in “The Hoffman House” (c 1850 Civil War) are listed on the historical register. Make sure to stop by the Blythewood Museum, it is FREE to visit and features items relating to local history, including many Native American artifacts. Programs and exhibits rotate through the museum seasonally including historical quilts and more. Blythewood is a quick drive from Columbia and located right off I-77. “Think of Blythewood as a small oasis in the middle of a much larger metropolis, you can drop in say hi and take a look around” says Dorsey. Visit the FREE Blythewood Historical Society and Museum during your next visit. Address: 100 McNulty St., Blythewood, SC 29016 Phone: 803-333-8133 Museum Hours: Tuesday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM | 1st and 3rd Saturdays: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM Molly Fortune, Executive Director, South Carolina American Revolution Sestercentennial Commission (SC250). When most people think about American wars, South Carolina and the Civil War are synonymous. However, 110 years prior to the war between the states, South Carolina would lead the southern campaign rebellion against “our British oppressors”, and ultimately turn the tide of the war. “In reality, South Carolina is the reason why we have the government that we have today,” says Fortune. She goes on to say that “South Carolina had over 400 events happen from skirmishes to murders. If it weren’t for the Southern campaign, which ultimately preluded the Civil War by pitting neighbors against neighbors - the British soldiers would have never left.” Much of South Carolina’s involvement in the Revolutionary War was written out of history books after the Civil War. The SC250 commission was established by the SC General Assembly in 2018 to celebrate and promote SC’s role in the American Revolution by educating, engaging, and inspiring South Carolinians and visitors. The SC250 Commission is working with all of South Carolina’s counties, 46 in total to help form committees to preserve and share this disregarded history. Committees can apply for grant funding from the commission for education, tourism, and economic development. “The commission’s primary goal is to make this history free and accessible to the public” says Fortune. One of the biggest differentiators for the SC250 from other states' commissions is that “we really want to tell all stories, not just the patriot story, not just that of the victor, but as we said before…it was the women, the children, the Native Americans, it was free and enslaved African Americans that were here - and the loyalists who were here, that made the story so complete” remarked Fortune. Unfortunately, those records are not easily forthcoming, but the SC250 is working to identify and tell those stories with the support of the community. Ultimately those accounts will be able to stand alongside those of Thomas Sumter and Francis Marion to paint a full picture of South Carolina’s role in the Revolutionary War. Keep your Revolutionary War exploration going by visiting these links:South Carolina 250 Commission: Plan Your Trip | SC Events Discover SC’s Significant Role in the American Revolution: Adventures right here in Lake Murray CountryThe Liberty Trail: Download the FREE app to view battlefields across SC Explore the rich history of Lake Murray Country during your next vacation. Capital City/Lake Murray Country is the official source for all things Lake Murray Country. Find information on attractions, dining, hotels, outdoor recreation, fishing, golf, and events to plan your next trip. Explore the “Top Southern Destinations” of Columbia, Lexington, Newberry, and Saluda. For more information about the region visit LakeMurrayCountry.com or call 803-781-5940 | 1-866-SC-Jewel. Subscribe Make sure to subscribe and follow us so you never miss an episode!Apple | Spotify | Google | Stitcher | iHeart Radio | Podcast Addict | Podchaseror wherever you get your podcasts! --------END------------- Key words: American Revolution, American Revolutionary War, Southern Campaign, Heritage Tourism, History, Lexington SC, Saluda SC, Richland SC, Newberry SC, Columbia SC, 250 Anniversary, Blythewood SC, Blythewood Historical Society, SC State Museum, South Carolina Confederate Museum and Relic Room, Vietnam War, Veterans Day, Civil War, See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Come alive while fishing on Lake Murray! Capital City/Lake Murray Country is one of the world’s top fishing destinations! With over 650 miles of shoreline, Lake Murray is home to some of the best freshwater fish, making it the perfect "fishing hole." With over 12 species of fish including largemouth bass and striper luring local and national fishing tournaments each year - anglers love Lake Murray as they can easily spot their lures in the clear water while reeling in a big one! The old adage “teach a man to fish and he will eat for a lifetime” remains true as knowledgeable and talented fishing guides are available to take you out on the water. Experience the comradery, thrill, and excitement of fishing on the waters of “the best bass fishing lake in the world.” In this episode we talk to: Scott Gordon, Tournament Director of The Big Bass Tour. Scott doesn’t shy away from his love of Lake Murray saying, “it’s an exciting lake!” Scott remarks that “Murray is off the chain!” Tournaments on Lake Murray often see 9-10 to 15 changes on the leaderboard during the competition - that's unheard of in other regions. From the amenities to the southern hospitality at the visitor’s center, Lake Murray has it all! “It’s a great destination to bring the family to because there is so much to do,” remarks Scott. Event details: Big Bass Tours, April 28-30, 2023 For more information about The Big Bass Tour visit: BigBassTour.com or find them on social media at Big Bass Tour. Tony Forte, President of USAngling describes Lake Murray as “the best bass fishing lake in the world.” Next month Lake Murray will host “the Olympics of bass fishing” the XVI Black Bass World Championship. (Their words, not ours!) Tony says “the goal of the organization is to get fishing into the Olympics” - and it’s a lot closer than you might think. “This tournament is going to be a huge stepping stone,” says Tony. The largest grouping of countries to ever fish in a bass tournament on record is 15 nations. This October, 25 nations will compete on the waters of Lake Murray, with teams representing countries from all over the world including Australia, South Africa, Laos, the Philippines, and more. Every continent (except Antarctica) will be represented at the championship. Look for the international flags coming soon to the front lawn of the visitors center and see if you can identify them all! Want to get in on the international bass action? Bring your family out for the kick-off event - Youth Angling Day at the Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park: Sunday, October 16, 2022, 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM. Children can learn to fish (from the best in the world), meet the teams - including the #1 angler in the world Jacob Wheeler, be sure to visit stations by SCDNR, Scouts of America, and US Angling that include skills in knot tying, casting, fish identification, and much more. Then grab lunch at the food trucks and snap a photo with Paw Patrol’s Skye and Marshall. Youth Angling Day is free and open to the public; an adult must accompany children. The momentous week continues right in the heart of the action with a public Country music concert featuring Cody Webb & weigh-in Friday, October 21 at Dreher Island State Park! Cheer on the anglers as they go for gold and grab dinner from one of the food trucks - make sure you stop by and visit the vendors. Event details: Bass World Championship October 16-22, 2022 Cheer on these anglers as they chase gold during the XVI Black Bass World Championship. Like Tony says this tournament “is all about the Olympic spirit”. Dave Washburn, VP of Operations at Major League Fishing (MLF) says Lake Murray “is a tremendous fishery” and “beyond that the hospitality in Columbia is unmatched, it’s just a great destination.” Lake Murray is one of those lakes in the world that anglers vie to fish at. Dave adds “if it’s not on your list, it should be.” Dave goes on to say that Lake Murray Country is one of the top two locations for hosting MLF events. In early October, 10 countries will be in attendance at the Phoenix Bass Fishing League Regional Championship, many of which will be competing later in the month at the XVI Black Bass World Championship. “What I have found is that bass fishermen are bass fishermen whether they are here in the United States or they’re in Korea or China or any number of countries.” It’s neat to experience [the comradery] on a personal level. The language might be different, obviously, the environment’s different, the systems of government are different, but the people that are fishermen are kindred spirits - and that really comes through.” says Dave. Fishing is a unifier - a connection point “It’s neat to see the international movement grow.” Event details: MLF Phoenix Bass Regional Tournament October 6-8, 2022 Catch the MLF Phoenix Bass Regional Tournament October 6-8, 2022 Weigh-ins will be held at Dreher Island State Park. Looking to book your next fishing trip? Capital City/Lake Murray Country is the official source for all things Lake Murray Country. Find information on attractions, dining, hotels, outdoor recreation, fishing, golf, and events to plan your next trip. Explore the "Top Southern Destinations" of Columbia, Lexington, Newberry, and Saluda. For more information about the region visit LakeMurrayCountry.com or call 803-781-5940 | 1-866-SC-Jewel. —------ Key words: Top southern destination, top fishing destination, best bass fishing lake, bass fishing, bass fisherman, fishing near me, fishing trip, best fishing lake, fresh water, angler, lake murray, lake murray sc, reel fishing, columbia sc To learn more visit www.lakemurraycountry.com This podcast was produced by BG Podcast NetworkSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.