Lake Murray, SC August 2023

Where the Lollies Go

Kids & Pets

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits.

This issue is always one of my favorites. I suppose because of the immense joy that children bring to their families and the significant impact they make on their communities.

Children are not merely the hope for a brighter tomorrow; they are the foundation upon which our society stands. Their innocence, curiosity, and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine. Kids represent our hardest work and greatest investment and we are happy to highlight the best for Lake Murray's kids in this issue.

Secondarily, who could forget pets? The special kind of companionship can be a transformative experience for children and adults alike. Pets provide us with unconditional love, the opportunity to learn, grow and develop essential life skills in a nurturing environment. And who could ignore the bond between kids and their furry or feathery friends? The bond is often deep and meaningful, fostering qualities like empathy, responsibility, and companionship.

What children and pets share in common is that they need us. Our care, attention and intention shapes how they are raised and who they become. We hope this issue inspires you to pour a little extra into the children and pets in your life this month.

Cheers!

DAVID

@LAKEMURRAYLIFESTYLE

August 2023

PUBLISHER

David Hayth | david.hayth@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Alexandra Hill | alexandra.hill@citylifestyle.com

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Collins

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

city scene

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business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Glenn Matthews becomes Rotary President

Congratulations to Glenn Matthews, Owner and President at Modern Exterminating has the honor and privilege of becoming the new president of the  Columbia Rotary Club ! It is quite the honor to serve our community and get the gavel passed to him by  Blake Buchanan ! If you would like more information about joining the Columbia, Rotary Club, please don’t hesitate to contact me.  Also, support the team at  Modern Exterminating Company,  https://www.pestfreesc.com .

Lake Murray is the "New King" of the Palmetto State

Columbia, S.C -- Bassmaster has named Lake Murray #4 out of 100 in their 2023 “100 Best Bass Lakes Revealed” list.

“Capital City/Lake Murray Country is thrilled and honored to be named in the top 5 of best bass lakes in the United States by B.A.S.S. Lake Murray has hosted many of the top bass fishing tournaments in the competitive bass fishing scene. They love the fishery, the challenge, and those large weights,” said Miriam Atria, President & CEO.

Hollow Creek Distillery Continues its Award Winning Ways

Craig and Meredith Amick, owners of Hollow Creek Distillery continue to produce award-winning bourbons, and vodkas in rural SC.  They started winning at the 2022 LA Spirits competition with two golds and two silvers.  Next up was the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and two more gold and two silvers.  Their William Alan Straight Bourbon Whisky took a double gold in the NY International Spirits competition.  For more info go to www.hollwcrekkdistillery.com .

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/LakeMurray

12

AUGUST

local experiences

Grab the kids, pack your bags and hit the town for some end of summer fun. Use our list for some family-friendly adventures that will do everything from raising your heart rate, excite the little ones, and create lasting memories together.

EDVENTURE: EdVenture is the largest children's museum in the Southeast United States, located right here in downtown Columbia. A perfect place to beat the heat! 211 Gervais St., Columbia, South Carolina 29201

AR WORKSHOP LEXINGTON: Feeling crafty? Sign up for a workshop that you and your children can complete together.  602 E. Main St. Suite F, Lexington, South Carolina 29072

CHICKENBUTT DONUTS: With every donut made to order, they have a variety of flavors and toppings to fit your taste. Make a trip to Chapin to make your tastebuds happy! 2130B Dutch Fork Rd Chapin, SC

VAMPIRE PENGUIN: Cool off with a "shaved snow" treat at this fun dessert place! We think the S'moreos sundae is calling our name!  5076 Sunset Blvd Suite D, Lexington, South Carolina 29072

DOKO MEADOWS PARK: Enjoy the outdoor showing of Moana  with family and friends under the stars in the park. Be sure to pack your favorite movie snacks! 171 Langford Rd., Blythewood, South Carolina 29016

Want to recommend a local experience?

See clearly without glasses

or

contacts

LASIK is just one of many fantastic surgical options to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia- age-related inability to focus at near distances requiring the use of reading glasses.

LASIK and PRK are procedures using a laser to reshape the cornea. Refractive lens exchange replaces your eye’s natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to meet your vision needs. Implantable contact lenses offer another option for patients with extreme nearsightedness.

Schedule a consultation with a specialist to see which option is best to help you reduce or eliminate your dependence on glasses or contacts.

Leo's Landing

Meet Leo.

Who is Leo, you may ask? Leo is a Lake Murray native, a dreamer, a visionary, and an awesome kid who hoped for something different. Leo, 10 years old, is the inspiration and namesake for the beloved and innovative “Leo’s Landing” found at Saluda Shoals Park. Lake Murray Lifestyle had the pleasure of speaking with the Bugenske family who are Leo’s parents. Their determination and dedication to change are such a gift to the Lake Murray community. What started as a brilliant dream turned into reality with

the support and vision of local families, the community, and experts in the field.

Two weeks after Adam and Meredith welcomed their son, Leo, into the world, they learned of a significant diagnosis that would impact their lives forever. Looking back, Adam reflects upon the fact that this diagnosis changed their lives in all the best ways. It opened their eyes to the amazing opportunity of being a parent and caregiver to a child with exceptional needs. Meredith and Leo loved going on runs together in the beautiful Saluda Shoals Park. When they

ARTICLE BY ALEXANDRA HILL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

would reach the playground, Leo would long to be out there playing with the other kids. But growing up in a wheelchair has its barriers and limits accessibility. As Meredith watched her son, she knew she wanted to pursue the life they had intended for their children- a life of adventure, excitement, and experiences. So, she got to work.

Before the Leo’s Pride Foundation ( leospride.org) came to be, Meredith and Adam gathered every resource, contact, and connection they had to send out a plea to make much needed changes and modifications to the community. They knew that with the community involved, they would make a huge impact. Meredith sent a mass email and it just took one reply to get the ball moving.

Elizabeth Taylor, from the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission, stated that she was apologetic for the gap in accessibility, but wanted to hear from them and was determined to fix this.

The first step towards change was an accessible playground piece that was added to Crooked Creek Park. While this was a step in the right direction, Ms. Taylor wanted the Bugenske family to know that this was just a temporary fix. She knew their vision was much bigger than this, but she wanted Leo to have something now.

So began great conversations between Leo and his family, Saluda Shoals, Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission, inclusive playground consultants, parenting experts, teachers, and physical and occupational therapists. The goal was to create a universally inclusive playground that was thoughtfully and carefully researched to reach all community members. No matter someone’s age or ability, children would feel like this place was built for them. The majority of the funding for this project was through private donations. Without having to use taxpayer money, this project truly became a community driven project.

Phase 1 of Leo’s Landing was a huge success. Not only was it fulfilling to see children loving the playground everyday, but Leo’s Landing was featured

on playground magazines, and became an example among inclusivity and playground design. People traveled from near and far to take their family to the playground as well as tour the playground to learn about why each piece was chosen.

The plan continued as the team started thinking about and planning for Phase 2. One day, another local family, the Gillespies, reached out to Adam and Meredith. The Gillespie family sat down with their children and talked about how they wanted to make a gift to a local foundation. They talked through their options and left it up to the kids. They chose the Leo’s Pride Foundation. Their kids loved the playground, and loved to participate in the annual 5k so they knew right away where they wanted to send their gift. This significant gift was just the nudge they needed to move onto Phase 2. So the team circled back. This included a general contractor, landscape architect, and of course, Leo, who attended all meetings to share his input.

As Phase 2 was in the works, Adam and Meredith were in conversation with their good friend and local author, Whitney McDuff. Whitney had written a children’s book called The Lollie Tree. Adam and Meredith loved reading this story to their children. This is a story of love and magic, overcoming fears, and the profound impact parents have on children while facing their fears. This is where the decompression space of Leo’s Landing was born. A place where kids can read a book, have a picnic with their family, or just have a moment with less stimulation. In this magical area, you will find a Little Free Library, hammock park, three charming playhouses, and the beautiful Lollie Tree. The tree is designed and carved to feature all of the animals seen in the book. The tree was created by a company out of California that specializes in making artificial trees that look real. They sent engineers out to Saluda Shoals to understand the landscape and weather patterns. They were determined to create a tree that was a perfect fit for its surroundings in

“When you build a place like this, everyone can be a part of it.”

the park. There is also a nook in the tree welcoming you to take a picture or to hide away for a moment. Adam shared that he can’t wait to see kids year after year in front of the Lollie Tree, growing up in this park that does not see differences, but welcomes them.

At this point, Phase 1 and Phase 2 are complete. Leo’s Landing has become a destination and an example for everybody in the community. This is a place for fears to be more easily overcome. Adam stated, “When you build a place like this, everyone can be a part of it.”

The Bugenske family, the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission, and all team members involved are proud to be a part of this legacy. Leo’s Landing has set a standard for future playgrounds and inclusivity. The ripple effects that this playground will have on the future are limitless. If just one kid’s heart is changed towards people who are different from them, what an impact that could be.

Play looks different for everyone. Having this universally inclusive playground right in our backyard of beautiful

“A community that excludes even one of its members is no community at all.”

Lake Murray is priceless. If you have not been to Leo’s Landing, be sure to make a trip out to Saluda Shoals to enjoy the nature-based play elements that honor the natural beauty of our area.

THE INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUND FEATURES:

• Treehouse Village including a roller table, balance beam, climbing and spinning elements, and a metal slide.

• Hillside Slope featuring a crawling tunnel, various slides, and a ramp connecting to the Treehouse Village.

• Swing Area featuring high back, bucket, and belt swings, as well as a wheelchair platform swing.

• Sound Garden with musical elements including chimes, drums, flowers, and a xylophone.

• Nature Play Area featuring a glider in the shape of a boat as well as trout, turtle, and frog climbing structure.

• Connection Park, a decompression space featuring musical entryway, Little Free Library, hammock park, three charming hobbit playhouses, and the Lollie Tree.

• Mogul Village off-trail adventure that encourages free play like running, jumping, rolling, and climbing through various terrain and equipment challenges.

• Zip Krooz® a high thrill two-way zip line with recumbent and disc seats for diverse skills and bodies.

• Additional features include a restroom addressing the needs of children and adults with physical disabilities, misting stations, water overlook, covered swings, picnic tables with shade, and two picnic shelters that can be rented for parties and special events.

Leo’s Landing is open daily during regular Saluda Shoals park hours.

DOG gone GOOD

Try these simple and healthy homemade treats for your furry friends. Not only are they easy to make, they are nutritious and seemingly delicious.

|

No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree

• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter

• 1/4 cup milk or half and half

• 3 cups oatmeal

Directions:

In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, peanut butter and milk on medium for 1 minute. Gradually add 2 1/2 cups oatmeal and stir. Use a small scoop or spoon to create 1/4 inch balls. Roll balls into remaining 1/2 cup oats to lightly top. Place into a closed container and refrigerate.

Peanut Butter Dog Treats

Ingredients:

• 2/3 cup pumpkin puree

• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter

• 2 eggs

• 2 1/2 cups flour (whole wheat preferred)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix all ingredients except flour and blend well. Gradually add the flour until the dough isn’t sticky. Roll dough into a ball. Lightly flour your surface and lightly kneed. Use a rolling pin to roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters and place dough on baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Drizzle with peanut butter (optional).

THE LOLLIE TREE

AN INTERVIEW WITH LOCAL AUTHOR, WHITNEY MCDUFF

This month, we got the pleasure of speaking with Whitney McDuff, Public Speaker Strategist and author of two children’s books- The Lollie Tree and Where the Lollies Go. They are stories of bravery, overcoming fears, and jam-packed with stunning illustrations. If these beautiful stories are not in your collection, be sure to “add to cart” today. Your family will enjoy these whimsical stories for years to come.

LAKE MURRAY LIFESTYLE: Hi Whitney! Thank you so much for chatting with us today. We are excited to learn more about you and your books!

WHITNEY: Thank you for the opportunity! I am always excited to share about the joy these books have brought me and share that with others.

LAKE MURRAY LIFESTYLE:  Tell us about the inspiration for your best-selling children’s book, The Lollie Tree.

WHITNEY: I was inspired to write this book when my first child was born. I wanted to tell a story about overcoming your fears and not being afraid. In the story,

the little boy gets a magic stone and goes down to The Lollie Tree only to find out that he can speak to the animals. The animals show him that all of the noises he hears in the night that scare him are actually them trying to protect him. For example, a little squirrel who is storing nuts in his room are the crackles he hears. He also hears the frog thumping around, the dragonflies wings, and so many others.

LAKE MURRAY LIFESTYLE: The imagery and illustrations in your book are incredible. What was the process like to get from story to page?

WHITNEY: Thank you! It was such a beautiful process to see the story come to life in the illustrations. I worked with a local midlands artist named Lindsey Eads Fischer. I knew her work and trusted her. I called her up and asked her if she wanted to try this together. She had never done children’s book illustrations, but she was willing

to go out on a limb with me. I shared my vision for the book and the first painting she shared with me was for the cover. As soon as I saw it, I was just wowed and knew it was the perfect fit. She also created the illustrations for Where the Lollies Go.

LAKE MURRAY LIFESTYLE: What is your connection with the midlands and Saluda Shoals Park?

WHITNEY: As I sat on the couch working on this story, talking with the publisher and illustrator, it just didn’t make sense to me that I was the only one going to benefit from the book. I thought about whose information I wanted to include in the book for other people to learn about. I immediately thought about Leo’s Pride. I called Adam and Meredith (Leo’s Parents) and asked if I could put their foundation information in the back of the book. They immediately said yes and were excited to spread awareness of their foundation. A percentage of the proceeds from every book sale goes right to the Leo’s Pride foundation.

LAKE MURRAY LIFESTYLE: How did you come up with the title of the book and is Where the Lollies Go a sequel?

WHITNEY: Lollie is the name we called my mom. Fast forward a couple years after the book was published, my mom unexpectedly passed away. Her big loves were children and reading. The second book I wrote, Where the Lollies Go, is actually the eulogy for her funeral. It’s a story about how love never goes away, and just transforms. One day, I got called to do a reading for a group of children, and Adam and Meredith were on the phone, too. They said, “We actually have a surprise for you.” They explained that they were gearing up for Phase 2 of Leo’s Landing at Saluda Shoals and wanted to build a giant Lollie Tree. My mom was always my biggest champion and advocate for creativity, so it was such a full circle moment for me to have mom honored in that way. Seeing the tree come into fruition in the park is so meaningful to me. It is such a special place to take my children and remember my mom.

LAKE MURRAY LIFESTYLE: What do you hope for people to take away from your books?

WHITNEY: My mom instilled in me and my children that magic is everywhere. Whether it be in this book, or on the inclusive playground, there is a place for everyone to feel included and to overcome their fears. We can create our own magic and create it for others. Every time I do a book reading, I give the kids a little magic stone. I’ve received so many messages over the years about how it has helped them overcome their fears of the dark. It’s just been amazing to see how it has taken off over the years. It was so unexpected, I wrote the book for my children, but to see how it impacts thousands of people is just really special.

LAKE MURRAY LIFESTYLE:  Do you plan to write other books?

Whitney: Yes! I actually have a book in the works right now. It’ll be a compilation of about 50 different stories. I’m super excited for that one to come together.

LAKE MURRAY LIFESTYLE: In addition to being an author and a mom, feel free to share about some of your other endeavors.

WHITNEY: I am so passionate about helping other people get their message out therewhether it be helping to publish their books, podcasts, working with public speakers or public relations. Since the book, I have been able to help so many people start their journeys. I love sitting down and helping them create that roadmap of getting their story out there.

NATIONAL EAT A PEACH DAY

National Eat a Peach Day is coming up on Tuesday, August 22. This mouthwatering occasion invites peach lovers to celebrate the vibrant flavors of this beloved fuzzy fruit. To celebrate, we’ve rounded up a list of ways to savor the sweetness of the region’s finest peaches that are grown and harvested locally.

This holiday is the perfect time to test out your culinary creativity and indulge in the many ways to enjoy peaches. While you can relish the simple pleasure of biting into a fresh, ripe peach, you can also explore recipes such as pies, jams, and salads. Enjoy the ultimate combination of fresh flavors with a peach salsa recipe by Watsonia Farms, or blend yourself a refreshing peach smoothie using a recipe by Titan Farms. The versatility of peaches lends itself to both sweet and savory dishes, offering endless possibilities for culinary exploration.

HERE ARE SOME FUN FACTS ABOUT PEACHES:

• The world’s largest peach, according to the Guinness World Records, weighed a whopping 1.81 pounds and was grown right here in South Carolina in 1989.

SHOW YOUR AP-PEACH-IATION FOR LOCAL FARMS

• Peaches are low in calories and packed with essential nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and fiber. They also contain antioxidants, which may help reduce the risk of diseases.

• The fuzzy skin of peaches is called “pubescence.” This layer helps protect the fruit from pests and extreme weather conditions.

• South Carolina produces more peaches than Georgia. On average, SC harvests three times the amount of peaches than GA in a typical season. Who’s the peach state now?

• The beautiful blossoms of peach trees typically bloom in early spring, filling orchards with pink and white flowers. In some cultures, the blossoms symbolize purity, love, and feminine charm

GET YOUR PEACH ON: WHERE TO BUY PEACHES

Watsonia Farms

3771 Hwy 23 | Monetta, SC 29105

Pond Branch Road I-20 Exit 44 | Gilbert, SC 29054

Watsonia Farms is known for its popular stand, Peaches n’ Such (and Peaches n’ Such II). Watsonia freestone peaches are perfect for baking, canning, cooking, and freezing, but they highly suggest eating them freshly sliced. If you’re in the area, be sure to try their famous homemade peach ice cream.

COTTON HOPE FARMS

202 Farm View Rd. | Batesburg, SC 29006

This family-owned farm is over 100 years old and renowned for its bountiful orchards, where the sweet scent of ripe peaches fills the air. Cotton Hope Farms is home to 30 varieties of juicy peaches. If you’re traveling through the region, keep an eye out for one of Cotton Hope Farms’ roadside stands– your tastebuds will thank you.

• 1757 N. Lake Drive, Lexington SC

• 296 Charter Oak Road, Lexington SC

• 3807 Augusta Hwy, Gilbert SC

TITAN FARMS

5 R. W. DuBose Road  |  Ridge Spring, South Carolina 29129

South Carolina’s own Titan Farms is the largest peach grower in the Southeast and the second largest peach grower in the United States. From their environmentally friendly practices to their commitment to quality, Titan Farms offers delectable, premium peaches. Their local farm stands, Sara’s Fresh Market, are the best way to get your hands on their delicious stone fruit. If you’re looking to share the sweetness of their peaches with someone you love who doesn’t live nearby, fear not! Titan Farms ships peach gift boxes throughout the summer.

• 5150 Edgefield Road, Trenton SC 29847

• 2601 Columbia Hwy N, Aiken SC 29805

DIXIE BELLE PEACHES

500 East Main St. | Ridge Spring, SC 29129

Dixie Belle Peaches has undergone a multi-million dollar expansion in the last few years, now farming orchards in Edgefield, Saluda, Orangeburg, and surrounding areas with a diverse offering of peach varieties. Dixie Belle also offers an array of peach-based products, from preserves and ciders to BBQ sauces and dressings.

Lexington County Peach Festival

Gilbert Community Park | Gilbert, SC 29054

Sand augers for your sandbar on any Lake, Ocean or River. Just auger them into the sand and tie them off to your boat. My suggestion is to get three of them depending if you have a pontoon, speed boat or sailboat. Just set it and forget it, with more time to spend with family and friends and not have to worry about your boat going anywhere.

All Sand Augers are made in the USA. All made of Bio Marine PVC pipes and PVC black augers. They are available in many colors, you can choose from black, white, yellow, blue, green, purple, red, and orange. Choose the colors of you boat or your favorite sports team.

Cost $85

Bundle of 2 $155

Bundle of 3 $230

A REEL Q&A WITH REESE

Reese Melven grew up in Irmo with his parents, Chad and Jane and his older brother and sister, William and Meredith. He later moved to Chapin, SC and graduated from Chapin High School in 2019. He is currently at the University of South Carolina studying Advertising and will graduate in December of 2023. Reese is currently President of the University of South Carolina Bass Fishing Team, where he competes in the Bassmaster and MLF College Series as well as other collegiate and local trails. He works at Capital City/Lake Murray Country as the Marketing and Special Events Intern.

1. WHERE ARE YOU FROM AND HOW DID YOU GET INTO FISHING?

I am from Chapin, SC. I grew up fishing the Saluda River on Lake Murray up in Prosperity, SC. Some of my earliest fishing memories were with my PawPaw who was a fisheries and wildlife biologist, he taught me a lot at a young age.

2. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU TO GROW UP FISHING ON A BODY OF WATER LIKE LAKE MURRAY?

Lake Murray truly is one of the best lakes in the country. Thanks to fishing at the collegiate level I have been fortunate enough to fish all over the US, and not much compares. Lake Murray is a place I’ve been able to cut my teeth and learn different styles and patterns of fishing. On Lake Murray, you can stay down the lake and fish for bass chasing Blueback Herring or run up the river and fish the abundance of shallow cover.

3. WHAT IS IT LIKE FISHING AT THE COLLEGIATE LEVEL?

It is an amazing opportunity to serve the University of South Carolina Bass Fishing Team as the President! This team has a very prestigious past winning 2 National Championships in 2015 & 2016 as well as various college tour events so it has been an honor to lead and be a part of the program. Aside from all that the comradery of this team is amazing. It is a group that eats, sleeps, and fishes and has without a doubt given me some friends of a lifetime. Although there are many

“LAKE MURRAY TRULY IS ONE OF THE BEST LAKES IN THE COUNTRY. THANKS TO FISHING AT THE COLLEGIATE LEVEL I HAVE BEEN FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO FISH ALL OVER THE US, AND NOT MUCH COMPARES.”

late nights doing homework in a hotel room and then waking up at 4 AM the next morning to fish, it is all worth it. These college fishing trails give us an amazing platform to compete across the country and sharpen our skills fishing different bodies of water against the best of the best.

4. WHEN IS YOUR FAVORITE TIME TO FISH LAKE MURRAY?

You really can’t beat Lake Murray during April and May. There is so much going on because there’s bass in every stage and just about everywhere. They’re deep, shallow, spawning, or chasing Blueback Herring (Baitfish) on points! You can do a lot of different things and it’s pretty hard to go wrong.

5. WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO BAIT ON LAKE MURRAY?

I think I would have to go with a weightless Berkley Jerk Shad in White Ice. If you’re not familiar with a Jerk Shad,

it imitates a bait fish, specifically the Blueback Herring in Lake Murray. This bait can be fished just about anywhere. I work it with a few erratic twitches followed by a short pause then repeat.

6. IF YOU COULD GIVE SOME ADVICE TO A YOUNGER ANGLER WHAT WOULD IT BE?

Bass fishing is an ever-changing game, it is always a puzzle that needs to be solved. That’s what keeps us coming back. The biggest piece of advice I could give would be to fish as much as possible. Whether that’s fishing in your neighborhood pond, on the lake in a boat or kayak, or even from the bank, get out as much as possible. We live in a time where there is so much information readily available online, so use it to your advantage and learn something new! Lastly, don’t get discouraged! We all have bad fishing days.

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A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

AUGUST 4TH

Brew at the Zoo

RIVERBANKS ZOO AND GARDEN | 7:00 PM

Lions, and tigers, and beers, oh my! Stroll through the zoo, sample craft beers, ciders, and local brews, while enjoying live music and animal encounters. All proceeds support the care and conservation of the animals and plants at Riverbanks and beyond. Brew at the Zoo typically sells out, so be sure to get your ticket in advance!

AUGUST 5TH

12,000

Year History Park –Civil War Tour

CAYCE TENNIS CENTER |

10:00 AM

The Battle of Congaree Creek was the last fortified position defended by Confederate troops before the capture and destruction of Columbia. As you walk the battlefield, learn about the strategies and tactics used by both sides as Sherman marched through South Carolina on his way to Columbia. This free tour is nearly 2-miles long and will take about 2 hours.

AUGUST 12TH

Radio Source at Catfish Johnny’s

RUSTY ANCHOR & CATFISH

JOHNNY’S | 5:30 PM

Head to the lake to enjoy popular music from the 80’s, 90’s, and Today’s Hits. Enjoy great food, fun music, and a spectacular view of Lake Murray.

AUGUST 17TH

Purple Martin Boat Tours with Carolina Safari Co.

JAKE’S LANDING | 6:30 PM

Join Wingard’s Naturalist and USCG Captain Zach Steinhauser for a pontoon tour of the largest purple martin roost in North America. Zach has been all over the U.S., and even to Brazil, studying this migratory songbird. You’re sure to enjoy this sunset cruise to Bomb Island, with our tour guides who are the most knowledgeable guides on the lake.

AUGUST 18TH

Eddie Montgomery Concert

ICEHOUSE AMPITHEATRE |

6:00 PM

Eddie Montgomery carries on the legacy of Montgomery Gentry and his late bandmate, Troy Gentry. Eddie has been keeping his promise to his bandmate to keep the music of Montgomery Gentry alive. This high energy show will keep the audience on their feet from start to finish.

AUGUST 19TH-20TH

Soda City Comic Con

COLUMBIA CONVENTION

CENTER | 10:00 AM

Soda City Comic Con is the premiere comic event in the Midlands. With over 150 artists, vendors, guests and cosplayers, there’s something for every member of your family!  Come see how amazing pop culture can be!

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/LakeMurray

Fun Tricks To Teach Your Puppy

A list of exciting new tricks to teach your puppy

We created a list of some fun tricks to teach your puppy! Whether you just welcomed a new furry friend into your home or you’re teaching an old dog new tricks, you and your pet are sure to have a fun time! Spending time playing and training with your pet makes for a great bonding experience! Don’t forget to reward them with some delicious dog treats when they successfully do a trick. My pup’s personal favorite treats are chicken, peanut butter, and carrots. We hope you and your pup have a great time learning the tricks on this list!

SPEAK

Get your dog to bark naturally (try ringing the doorbell or knocking on the door). Once they bark, say ‘speak’ and reward them.

STAY

Have your dog sit and then tell them to stay. Hold your hand out with your palm toward their nose in the stop position. If they hold the position for a second or two, praise them and reward them with a treat. Keep repeating this and gradually having them stay longer.

SHAKE

Hold your hand out in front of your dog. Your dog may do some experimenting trying to figure out what you want. Once they put their paw in your hand, immediately praise and reward them.

The Nation’s Highest Ratings in Heart Surgery

At Lexington Medical Heart and Vascular Center, we’re proud to receive three-star ratings for heart surgery once again — the highest measure of quality awarded by the Society of Thoracic Surgeons.

We’re honored to be recognized for our patient care and outcomes in three types of heart surgery: aortic valve replacement, coronary artery bypass grafting and mitral valve replacement and repair. Fewer than 10% of hospitals in the country earn this elite distinction, and we’re proud to be the only South Carolina hospital included among them.

At Lexington Medical Heart and Vascular Center, we renew lives every day. And our quality ratings mean you can get the best heart care in the nation — right here at home.