http://TheState.com/neighbors/index.xml News, sports and entertainment from TheState.com en-us Copyright 2010 TheState.com Neighbors 60 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 15:15:22 EST http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss McClatchy Interactive's Workbench support@TheState.com http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140394.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140394.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:45 EST Some Northeast Richland residents are objecting to the introduction of a 24-hour call center at the edge of their gated subdivision.<p/>The site for the new Verizon center - which will open on Spears Creek Church Road late this year - was cleared before most neighbors realized what was going on, resident Ginger Walter said.<p/>The clearing took out all but a spare line of trees along the portion of the back property line near Walter's home in Woodcreek Farms.<p/>She and other residents of the high-end subdivision have appealed to local elected officials to negotiate for changes at the site, including to limit access through a back entrance.<p/>Just last week, Harold Pickrel, a partner in Woodcreek Farms who helped arrange the sale to Verizon, offered to plant a 40-foot thick buffer of trees and decorative shrubs to help screen the Verizon property from nearby homes. http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140379.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140379.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:49 EST Walking and jogging across the Lake Murray dams is much better now that dogs are banned on the path, users say.<p/>"It's a huge improvement," frequent walker Heather McCants of Lexington said.<p/>Lexington County officials put the 1.7-mile path off-limits to animals last summer.<p/>The ban was imposed after complaints mounted about pet waste and dogs snapping at passersby and each other. <p/>Scenic views make the 2-year-old trail popular for strolling and racing. http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140381.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140381.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:50 EST A pair of changes are in the works to speed up voting in some of Lexington County's fast-growing areas.<p/>Four precincts in the center of the county - Barr Road, Park Road, Pine Ridge and Red Bank South - are being split to reduce lines at the polls.<p/>New equipment will be added at 10 other precincts mainly around Lake Murray to reduce waiting, officials said.<p/>The precincts being split each have about 2,500 voters, nearly twice the amount election officials consider ideal.<p/>All are in and around the towns of Lexington and Pine Ridge and the Red Bank area. http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140380.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140380.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:50 EST <em>The public is invited to attend these upcoming forums for Columbia's mayoral candidates. The election is April 6.</em><p/><em>Please e-mail information about any other group candidate events to <a href="mailto:abeam@thestate.com">abeam@thestate.com</a></em><p/>Tonight : 7 p.m. Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 3200 Trenholm Road. Hosted by the Forest Hills, Pinehurst, Heathwood, Heathwood West, Melrose, Lyon Street and Tanglewood neighborhood associations.<p/> <p/>Feb. 8: 7 p.m., Columbia Museum of Art, 1515 Main St. Hosted by the Cultural Council and the Columbia Museum of Art Commission. http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140391.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140391.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 03 Feb 2010 15:15 EST <strong>BRIDGE CREEK ELEMENTARY</strong><p/>GREGORY GABLE, a fourth-grader at Bridge Creek Elementary, won first place in the I Love My Library Media Center contest sponsored by the S.C. Association of School Librarians. Winners receive $100, and the media center at Bridge Creek will receive a pre-loaded digital audio player.<p/><strong>RICHLAND NORTHEAST HIGH</strong><p/>RNE's JOHN H. HUDGENS CHAPTER of the National Honor Society recently inducted 32 new members. <p/>Ahmed Alshareef, Mary Catherine Ballou, Andrew Beatty, Amanda Belton, Gracyn Brandon, Joe Brook, Katherine Burke, Allison Compton, Courtney Cooper-Lewter, David Currey, Senna Desjardins, Laura Dorn, Karen Ekeh, Rachel Epperly, Aljournal Franklin, Karla Heyward, Jessica Johnson, Ashley Klomen, Bradley Lara, Aileen Marrero, Jason Mohn, Ray-Kella Preston, Sara Reeves, Javier Santos, Haley Schmidt, Jack Strange, Emily Theus, Justin Voelkel, Brittany Wallace, Kelly Wiley, Freda Yin, Evy Zamora http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140384.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140384.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:50 EST <strong>DISTRICT NEWS</strong><p/>RICHLAND 1 has been awarded $560,000 for the 2009 funding year from E-Rate, the federal Schools and Libraries Program. E-Rate helps schools and libraries in obtaining affordable telecommunications and Internet access. Luke Fox, Richland 1's executive director of information technology says the funding will be used to provide local and long-distance telephone services, cell phone and data services and paging services for the district.<p/>RICHLAND 1 administrators are looking for citizens' input as they develop the 2010-11 general fund budget. Open meetings will be held at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 16, in the media center at Alcorn Middle School, 5125 Fairfield Road and 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 22 in the lecture hall at Southeast Middle School, 731 Horrell Hill Road, Hopkins. (803) 231-7504<p/>RICHLAND 1 has been awarded $560,000 for the 2009 funding year from E-Rate, the federal Schools and Libraries Program. E-Rate helps schools and libraries in obtaining affordable telecommunications and Internet access. Luke Fox, Richland 1's executive director of information technology says the funding will be used to provide local and long-distance telephone services, cell phone and data services and paging services for the district.<p/><strong>DREHER HIGH</strong> http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140389.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140389.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:50 EST <strong>DUTCH FORK MIDDLE</strong><p/>DUTCH FORK MIDDLE SCHOOL has announced its January Students of the Month. Students who best demonstrated the trait of initiative were Miriam Cattell, Devon Chatman, Da'Rell Harris, Daniel Hudson, Autumn Leggins, Twinkle Loungani, Caroline Neuhoff, Alex Polk, Savannah Rhyne, Abby Schmidt, Raven Smith, Catera Sweeney, Erick Targia, Katy Templeton, Aaron Vincent, Tal Wanish, Brett Winters and Brittany Wright.<p/><strong>HARBISON WEST ELEMENTARY</strong><p/>HARBISON WEST ELEMENTARY SCHOOL placed third in the Best Template Design Yearbook category of the Lifetouch National Best of the Best contest. The school will receive a certificate and a cash prize for the yearbook program. Gina Mays, assistant principal, was the 2009 yearbook advisor.<p/><strong>IRMO HIGH</strong> http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140387.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140387.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 03 Feb 2010 15:03 EST <strong>DISTRICT NEWS</strong><p/>LEXINGTON 1 elementary schools are accepting registration for 4K, 5K and first grade. In order to register your child, you must bring your child's state birth certificate, Social Security card and a completed S.C. Certificate of Immunization to the school for which your child is zoned. For proof of residence, bring a current utility bill/statement showing home address and S.C. driver's license with the same address. Children age 4 by Sept. 1 may be eligible for the half-day 4K program; parents must apply. Children age 5 by Sept. 1 are eligible for 5-year-old kindergarten. Children attending a 4K program in the district still must be enrolled in 5K. Children attending 5K in Lexington 1 and who will be 6 years old by Sept. 1 are automatically enrolled in first grade. Registration will be held at the following elementary schools:<p/>- Carolina Springs: 8 a.m.-3 p.m. today and Friday<p/>- Forts Pond: 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m. today and Friday<p/>- Gilbert Primary: 7 a.m.-4 p.m. today and Friday http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140388.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140388.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:50 EST <strong>AIRPORT HIGH</strong><p/>LAURIN GILMER, a student at Airport High School, received Honorable Mention and a gift card for her "Hang Up and Drive" essay. The competition, sponsored by the AAA Carolinas Foundation for Traffic Safety, was an effort to highlight the dangers of cell phone use while driving.<p/>THE AIRPORT HIGH SCHOOL EDUCATION FOUNDATION is accepting nominations for the Airport Alumni Hall of Fame. Nominations are due Thursday, Feb. 11, and may be returned to Airport High School, 1315 Boston Ave., West Columbia, SC 29170, attention: Joni Coleman. Forms may be printed from Airport High School's Website or picked up at the school or Lexington 2's District Education Center, 715 Ninth St.<p/><strong>DISTRICT NEWS</strong><p/>LEXINGTON 2 elementary schools will accept registration for the 4-year-old child development program, 5-year-old kindergarten and first grade for 2010-11 beginning Wednesday, March 3; hours will be 7:45 a.m.-3 p.m. weekdays. In order to register your child, you must bring your child's state birth certificate, Social Security card and a completed S.C. Certificate of Immunization to the school for which your child is zoned. For proof of residence, bring a current utility bill/statement showing home address and a mortgage, rental or lease agreement or property tax receipt with the same address. Children must be four years old on or before Sept. 1 to enter the child development program. Children age 5 by Sept. 1 are eligible for 5-year-old kindergarten. Children attending 5K in Lexington 2 and who will be 6 years old by Sept. 1 are automatically enrolled in first grade. http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140386.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140386.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:50 EST <strong>LUGOFF-ELGIN HIGH</strong><p/>TWENTY-SEVEN JUNIORS AND SENIORS will compete for the title of Mr. L-E at 7 p.m. Saturday in the auditorium. Entertainment by the dance class. Advance tickets, $5; at the door, $7. Sponsored by the journalism department, proceeds from the event will be used to purchase new computers and printers. http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140385.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140385.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:50 EST <strong>HONORS</strong><p/>COLUMBIA COLLEGE has announced its honors lists for the fall semester of the 2009-10 academic year. To be named to the President's List, a student must have a grade-point average of 4.0. Students on the Dean's List must have a grade-point average of 3.5 or higher.<p/>PRESIDENT'S LIST<p/>Melissa Danielle Anthony, Katelyn Elizabeth Teal, Karianne Zeller, Amina Ashraf, Cheryl Marie Brantley, Alexandra Bowen, Suzanne Elizabeth Campbell, Windy Lea Yeager, Claudia Aldamuy, Patrick Atkinson, Amanda Bowman-Moroson, Erin Butler, Jennifer Rachel Doty, Yolina Georgieva Elenkova, Tonia Freeman, Suzanne Harmon, Homa Hassan, Elizabeth Hoffman, Diana Lynde, Lisa McAboy, Sarah Ann Mooers, Amber Morris, Susan Ott, Jennifer Pawlak, Jessica Shonray Peele, Hadley Elizabeth Reed, Catherine Rutledge-Croft, Sabrina Sabau, Emily Smith, Donna Tillis, Jennie-Rose Van Derveer, Benjamin White, Laurea Ellis, Gennie Freeman, Hope Stayman, Lindsay Elizabeth Lauer, Lindsay Wiggins, Jennifer McGriff, Theresa Doar Sullivan Pope, Sherry Wright<p/>DEAN'S LIST http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140392.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140392.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:50 EST THE S.C. PTA LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE will offer legislative and emerging minority leadership training 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday at Lower Richland High School, 2615 Lower Richland Blvd., Hopkins. www.scpta.org<p/>THE S.C. CAMPAIGN TO PREVENT TEEN PREGNANCY AND FIRST CITIZENS BANK are sponsoring "I Am a Teen. Is There an App for That?". Entries from students ages 14-19 will be accepted until Friday, March 12. Entry forms and registration at www.teenpregnancysc.org.<p/>THE S.C. WRITERS WORKSHOP is accepting submissions for its 2010 High School Junior and Senior Writing Competition. Open to any junior or senior attending public, private or home school. No fee; entries must be postmarked on or before Monday, March 1. Details and forms available at www.myscww.org<p/>LEXINGTON SOIL & WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT is accepting entries through 5 p.m. Monday, April 5, for the 2010 Youth Photography Contest. Categories include Trees and Plants, Native Wildlife, Landscapes and Rural Life. Judging will be in Division I, students in grades 9-12; Division II, students in grades 6-8. Deadline is 5 p.m. Monday, April 5. All photos must be taken after Jan. 1, 2009; black and white or color prints, 4x6 or 5x7. The photographer must reside in Lexington County. Students may enter a total of four photos, with a limit of two per category. Entries must contain the following information: photographer's name, address, phone number, grade level and school; category and title of photograph; subjects in photo (if any); and location of where the photo was taken. A complete list of rules is at www.lexswcd.org or by calling (803) 359-3165, ext. 3.<p/>SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140390.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140390.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 03 Feb 2010 15:11 EST ST. JOSEPH SCHOOL will offer special tours during Catholic Schools Week at 3700 Devine St. <p/>Tours will be 6:30-8 tonight during the Art, Math and Science Exposition and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday.<p/>(803) 254-6736, ext. 11 http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140398.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140398.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 03 Feb 2010 15:16 EST SCHOOLS<p/><strong>Theatre to be dedicated to teacher</strong><p/> A ceremony is planned for 4 p.m. Sunday to dedicate The Freddie E. Grace Jr. Theatre at W.G. Sanders Middle School, 3455 Pine Belt Road. <p/>Richland 1's school board voted unanimously to renamed Keenan Theater in honor of Grace, the district's lead orchestra teacher who died last April after a brief illness. <p/>Grace, who was with the district 26 years, was one of Richland 1's first orchestra teachers and was serving as an orchestra teacher at Keenan High, Hyatt Park Elementary and E.E. Taylor Elementary. At Keenan, he also was the assistant marching band director, assistant varsity girls' basketball coach and head junior varsity girls' basketball coach. http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140397.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140397.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:50 EST SCHOOLS<p/><strong>Secondary education director named</strong><p/> Camden High princi-pal Reggie Dean is moving to Lexington-Richland 5 to become director of secondary education.<p/>Dean, who was at Camden for 16 years, was state principal of the year in 2004.<p/>In his new role, he will super-vise administrators at Chapin, Dutch Fork and Irmo high schools. http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140396.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140396.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 03 Feb 2010 15:06 EST SCHOOLS<p/><strong>Secondary education director named</strong><p/> Camden High principal Reggie Dean is moving to Lexington-Richland 5 to become director of secondary education.<p/>Dean, who was at Camden for 16 years, was state principal of the year in 2004.<p/>In his new role, he will super-vise administrators at Chapin, Dutch Fork and Irmo high schools. http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140399.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140399.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:51 EST LEXINGTON<p/><strong>Mayor outlines goals for year ahead</strong><p/> Lexington Town Hall needs to keep pressing to make some long-sought projects happen, Mayor Randy Halfacre says.<p/>Top goals outlined in his annual State of the Town address Monday include:<p/>- Join with Lexington 1 schools to develop a community growth plan looking ahead to 2050. http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140395.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140395.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 03 Feb 2010 13:52 EST ZIP CODE 29016<p/>PROPERTY TRANSFERS<p/>1044 Buttercup Circle, Blythewood, from Hurricane Construction Inc. to Michael and Ana Coleman, $211,500<p/>ZIP CODE 29020<p/>PROPERTY TRANSFERS http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140377.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140377.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 03 Feb 2010 13:52 EST PUBLIC LIBRARIES<p/>Advance registration required for most programs<p/><strong>RICHLAND COUNTY</strong><p/>ST. ANDREWS REGIONAL BRANCH: Teen video game challenge, 3-5 p.m. today and Thursday, Feb. 18. Owls of South Carolina for ages 6-12, 4 p.m. today. Story Time for all ages, 10:30 a.m. Saturdays. Let's Speak English for adults, 10 a.m. Tuesdays. Hey! Listen to This!, stories and songs for all ages, 4 p.m. Tuesdays. Mind Games for adults, 1-3 p.m. Tuesday and Feb. 23; keep your mind sharp with Sudoko, chess or crosswords. Book Banter for adults, 7 p.m. Tuesday. Mother Goose Story Time for you and your child ages 12 months and younger, 9:30 a.m. Wednesday. Read with Curious George for all ages, 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays. Germs, Germs, Germs!, 4 p.m. Wednesday; science-based program from EdVenture Children's Museum shows ages 3-12 how to stay healthy. Pine Needle Basketry for adults, 3 p.m. Saturdays, Feb. 13, 20 and 27; at the end of the course, you'll have your own masterpiece. Sew Divine, A Gathering of Crafters for adults, 12:30-2:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 16. Chinese Dragon Parade for ages 6-12, 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 18. Computer Basics: Introduction to Computers for adults, 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 23. 2916 Broad River Road, (803) 772-6675<p/>THE LINK, BALLENTINE: Hey! Listen to This!, 11 a.m. Fridays; stories and songs for all ages. Chinese New Year Fun for ages 6-12, 11 a.m. Saturday. Pajamarama Story Time for all ages, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 18. 1321 Dutch Fork Road, (803) 781-5026 http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140382.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140382.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:53 EST <strong>COMMUNITY</strong><p/>PALMETTO HEALTH BOARD OF DIRECTORS has announced officers and new members for 2010: Jerome Odom, chairman; William Cogdill Jr., vice chairman; Sara Fisher, treasurer; and Traci Young Cooper, secretary. New members include Candy Waites and Rosalyn Frierson.<p/>THE S.C. CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY held a graduation ceremony for Basic Jail Class 287 on Jan. 22. Graduates include Erica M. Brooks, Pamela K. Ewing, April L. Steele and Felicia M. Williams, all of the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center; and Matthew M. Johnson, of the Lexington County Detention Center.<p/><strong>MILITARY</strong><p/>AIRMAN TYRONE L. DREW has completed basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. The son of Donna Drew of Columbia, he is a 2007 graduate of Irmo High School. http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140376.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1140376.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 03 Feb 2010 15:07 EST MEETINGS<p/><strong>COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS</strong><p/>NATIONAL ACTIVE AND RETIRED FEDERAL EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION: Columbia Chapter 87 of NARFE luncheon meeting, 11:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 12, at Seawell's, 1125 Rosewood Drive. Guest speaker will be Scott Middleton, CEO of Agape Senior. Open to all active and retired federal employees and spouses in Richland and Lexington counties. <p/>PARENTS OF PRE-TEENS: Help your children ages 10-13 fight back against drugs, sex, alcohol and gangs. (803) 771-2212<p/>SOCIALLY INTELLIGENT SISTERS: Meet new people for social activities, travel and more. Marie, (803) 743-5866 http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1120225.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1120225.html?RSS=general_news Thu, 21 Jan 2010 10:52 EST Following are seats that will be up for election, as well as the incumbents. At press time Tuesday, it was not known how many would seek re-election, though we have noted some who do plan to run here.<p/>Filing has not closed for Columbia’s city elections, but we’ve noted announced candidates, and those who had filed as of Jan. 20.<p/><h2>Richland County</h2><p/><strong>Council</strong><p/>All incumbents, except Kit Smith, have said they’ll seek re-election. http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1120224.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1120224.html?RSS=general_news Thu, 21 Jan 2010 10:52 EST <em>From the S.C. State Election Commission, for local, state and Congressional balloting this fall:</em><p/>Noon, March 16 through noon, March 30: Filing period for candidates seeking political party nominations<p/>May 8: Deadline to register to vote in state primaries<p/>June 8: State primaries<p/>June 22: Primary runoffs, if needed http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1120230.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1120230.html?RSS=general_news Thu, 21 Jan 2010 10:42 EST ZIP CODE 29016<p/>PROPERTY TRANSFERS<p/>1041 Butter Cup Circle, Blythewood, from Hurricane Construction Inc. to Ananka Judith Thomas, $177,999<p/>ZIP CODE 29033<p/>PROPERTY TRANSFERS http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1120226.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1120226.html?RSS=general_news Thu, 21 Jan 2010 01:33 EST <strong>COMMUNITY</strong><p/>RICHLAND COUNTY'S FINANCE DEPARTMENT has received the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for fiscal year 2010 from the Governmental Finance Officers Association.<p/>RANDY SCOTT, Deputy Chief of the Richland County Sheriff's Department, has been awarded the Martin Luther King Jr. Drum Major for Justice Award. Presented by the Midlands Coalition of Churches, the award recognizes law enforcement personnel who have rendered service beyond the call of duty. Scott has been with the department for 15 years and is now serving as commander of the uniform division.<p/>STATE REP. JOAN BRADY, (R-Richland), has been inducted to the national board of Women in Government, an organization of female legislators that identifies public policy and educates legslators on issues impacting women and familes. Brady will serve a two-year term as Southern Regional Director.<p/>EUGENE MOORE of Lexington has been commissioned as a Kentucky Colonel. The Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels is a nonprofit organization that provides financial support to Kentucky charitable and educational institutions and organizations. http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1120228.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1120228.html?RSS=general_news Thu, 21 Jan 2010 01:33 EST <strong>VOLUNTEERS</strong><p/>FRIENDS OF HARBISON STATE FOREST hosts volunteer trail maintenance days the third Saturday monthly. Meet at 9 a.m. in the front parking lot. Call Harry, (803) 782-9371 or Rebecca, (803) 788-6992<p/>DREAM RIDERS therapeutic equestrian program will hold a volunteer training session for ages 14 and older, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 30, at 156 Sandy Hill Road, Lexington. Horse experience isn't necessary, but you will be working outside; visit www.dreamrider.org for more information. (803) 957-7906; <a href="mailto:www.dreamr2@mindspring.com">www.dreamr2@mindspring.com</a><p/>LEXINGTON COUNTY VOLUNTEER GUARDIAN AD LITEM PROGRAM is seeking people to serve as advocates for children who come into foster care because of abuse or neglect. GAL volunteers work with all agencies involved with the child, including the Department of Social Services, the Family Court, school and counselors. Volunteers must be at least 21, have the desire to work with children, the ability to pass background checks and complete the 30-hour training program. Call (803) 957-6484 or go to www.lexington.scgal.org for an application.<p/>REGENCY HOSPICE is looking for someone to arrange flowers for distribution to patients and families. Two to three hours per week, Tuesdays or Wednesdays. Alice, (803) 765-0099. http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1120229.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1120229.html?RSS=general_news Thu, 21 Jan 2010 01:33 EST It's time for our annual Summer Fun guide to camps in the Midlands. <p/>If you lead a summer camp, program or activity, you will want it included in our guide, coming Thursday, April 1. <p/>The deadline for submissions is Wednesday, March 17.<p/>E-mail the following information to <a href="mailto:Summerfun@thestate.com">Summerfun@thestate.com</a>.<p/>- Camp or activity name http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1120223.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1120223.html?RSS=general_news Thu, 21 Jan 2010 01:33 EST MEETINGS<p/><strong>COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS</strong><p/>SEVEN OAKS ART LEAGUE: 7 tonight at Seven Oaks Park, 200 Leisure Lane, Irmo. Dee Hansen will give a presentation on the work of Henry Hansen.<p/>S.C. AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE COMMISSION: Annual meeting and awards luncheon, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 29, at the Archives and History Center, 8301 Parklane Road. $30; members, $25; SCAAHC foundation memberships, $25; 12:30 p.m. luncheon only, $15. Deadline is Friday. (843)-332-3589; e-mail <a href="mailto:professionaljmh@aol.com">professionaljmh@aol.com</a><p/>PARENTS OF PRE-TEENS: Help your children ages 10-13 fight back against drugs, sex, alcohol and gangs. (803) 771-2212 http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1109409.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1109409.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 13 Jan 2010 22:53 EST If you're like us, you're still putting together your calendar for the new year. And, while you're doing it, don't forget to set aside some time for fun. Our own communities are full of activities and events - many free. We've put together a few of our favorites here.<p/>1. Elevate your lunch hour: You can pack a lot of fun into a lunch hour. Several area churches, for example, offer lunchtime lectures and other events. One we really like is Wednesdays at Trinity. The annual concert series at Trinity Episcopal in downtown Columbia features a different musician each week. The concert is free; you can purchase an inexpensive lunch and enjoy it before or after the performance. Look for the 2010 schedule at www.trinitysc.org/wed_at_trinity<p/>2. Celebrate the peach: The annual Peach Festival, a favorite summer tradition, is Lexington County's largest. Thousands pack the otherwise tiny town of Gilbert to enjoy all things peach, from ice cream to cobblers and more. It's a great excuse to enjoy one of our favorite fruits. This year's event is July 3.<p/>3. Irmo Okra Strut: It seems only fair to balance the fruit festival with a veggie offering. And the biggest in the Midlands is the Irmo Okra Strut, set this year for Sept. 24-25. There are lots of activities for the family, from a parade to kids' games, vendor booths, live music and more. And of course, there is okra. Be sure to stop by the okra-eating contest - if you think you can handle it. www.irmookrastrut.com<p/>4. Sparkleberry Country Fair: Drive around Northeast Richland today, and you probably wouldn't have a clue that this area used to be agriculture. It's part of the community history that's celebrated each April at the Sparkleberry Country Fair. In addition to performances by Richland 2 students and other community groups, there's a salute to the military, kids' games, farm animals, vendor booths and more. Watch the web site for details about the 2010 event: www.sparkleberryfair.com http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1109410.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1109410.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 13 Jan 2010 22:53 EST MEETINGS<p/><strong>COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS</strong><p/>HARBISON EDUCATION TRAVEL CLUB: 1:30 p.m. Monday at Harbison Recreation Center, 108 Hillpine Road. Margaret Forton will give a presentation on Ireland. Call (803) 781-2214 to register.<p/>CROOKED CREEK ART LEAGUE: 7 p.m. Monday at Crooked Creek Park, 1098 Old Lexington Highway, Chapin. Guest artist Bob Hickman will discuss watercolor, graphite, acrylic, oils and gouache. www.crookedcreekart.org<p/>SEVEN OAKS ART LEAGUE: 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 21, at Seven Oaks Park, 200 Leisure Lane, Irmo. Dee Hansen will give a presentation on the work of Henry Hansen. http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1109411.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1109411.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 13 Jan 2010 22:53 EST <strong>COMMUNITY</strong><p/>THE RICHLAND COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY FOUNDATION recently held elections for officers and board members. Frank W. Cureton was named chair, Robert E. Gahagan, vice chairman; and W. Bert Brannon, secretary/treasurer. Board members include Nathaniel A. Barber, Barbara S. Griffin, W. Steven Johnson, John S. Nichols, Lenora "Nonie" Price, Lee Rambo, Walter Tobin Jr. and John C. Bradley Jr.<p/>GIRL SCOUTS OF SOUTH CAROLINA-MOUNTAINS TO MIDLANDS has been selected for the 2009 Best of Columbia Award in the Girl Scouts of the USA category by the U.S. Commerce Association. The USCA Best of Local Business award program recognizes outstanding local businesses that have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category, enhancing the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.<p/><strong>MILITARY</strong><p/>ARMY PFC. BYRON C. OWENS has completed basic combat training at Fort Sill, Lawton, Okla. The son of LaDain and Sandra Owens of Chapin, he is a 2006 graduate of Chapin High School. http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1109412.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1109412.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 13 Jan 2010 22:53 EST <strong>VOLUNTEERS</strong><p/>FRIENDS OF HARBISON STATE FOREST hosts volunteer trail maintenance days the third Saturday monthly. Meet at 9 a.m. in the front parking lot. Call Harry, (803) 782-9371 or Rebecca, (803) 788-6992<p/>DREAM RIDERS therapeutic equestrian program will hold a volunteer training session for ages 14 and older, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 30, at 156 Sandy Hill Road, Lexington. Horse experience isn't necessary, but you will be working outside; visit www.dreamrider.org for more information. (803) 957-7906; <a href="mailto:www.dreamr2@mindspring.com">www.dreamr2@mindspring.com</a><p/>LEXINGTON COUNTY VOLUNTEER GUARDIAN AD LITEM PROGRAM is seeking people to serve as advocates for children who come into foster care because of abuse or neglect. GAL volunteers work with all agencies involved with the child, including the Department of Social Services, the Family Court, school and counselors. Volunteers must be at least 21, have the desire to work with children, the ability to pass background checks and complete the 30-hour training program. Call (803) 957-6484 or go to www.lexington.scgal.org for an application.<p/>AARP is seeking volunteers to fill positions of coordinator, instructor and marketer for its Driver Safety Program. (803) 781-4726; e-mail <a href="mailto:acalltome@bellsouth.net">acalltome@bellsouth.net</a> http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1109413.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1109413.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 13 Jan 2010 22:53 EST If you lead a summer camp, program or activity, you will want it included in our guide, coming Thursday, April 1. <p/>The deadline for submissions is Wednesday, March 17.<p/>E-mail the following information to <a href="mailto:Summerfun@thestate.com">Summerfun@thestate.com</a>.<p/>- Camp or activity name <p/>- Location/address http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1109414.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1109414.html?RSS=general_news Thu, 21 Jan 2010 10:43 EST ZIP CODE 29016<p/>PROPERTY TRANSFERS<p/>125 Coopers Pond Drive, Blythewood, from C&C Builders to Nick and Kristen Chaisson, $211,500<p/>2089 Dobson Road, Blythewood, form National Transfer Services LLC to John Arthur Griffis, $193,000<p/>533 Grey Hawk Lane, Blythewood, from Essex Homes Southeast Inc. to Walter and Michelle Hayes, $301,000 http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1098796.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1098796.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 06 Jan 2010 17:37 EST MEETINGS<p/><strong>COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS</strong><p/>NATIONAL ACTIVE AND RETIRED FEDERAL EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION: Columbia Chapter 87 of NARFE luncheon meeting, 11:30 a.m. Friday at Seawell's, 1125 Rosewood Drive. Open to all active and retired federal employees and spouses in Richland and Lexington counties. Guest speaker will be Richland County Probate Judge Amy McCullough.<p/>GREATER COLUMBIA CHAPTER OF S.C. STATE UNIVERSITY NATIONAL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION: 6 p.m. Monday at the Cecil Tillis Center, 2111 Simpkins Lane.<p/>PARENTS OF PRE-TEENS: Help your children ages 10-13 fight back against drugs, sex, alcohol and gangs. (803) 771-2212 http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1098797.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1098797.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 06 Jan 2010 17:37 EST Annual budget: $1.3 million<p/>Includes:<p/>- $275,000 a year from Richland County<p/>- $452,000 a year from the city of Columbia<p/>- Remainder comes from grants, donations, memberships and earned income. http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1098805.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1098805.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 06 Jan 2010 17:37 EST <em>This is compiled from staff writer Kristy Rupon's weekly "Shop Around" column. Contact her with openings, closings and special events happening at area businesses: <a href="mailto:krupon@thestate.com">krupon@thestate.com</a> or (803) 771-8308.</em><p/><strong> 'Food with integrity'</strong><p/>Diners won't have to wait much longer for Chipotle Mexican Grill to make its entrance into the Columbia market. The restaurant opens Jan. 15 in Trenholm Plaza, with limited free T-shirts, burrito coupons and other specials.<p/>But before that, customers can taste-test the gourmet burritos on "free burrito day" from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Jan. 13. All burritos will be free that day.<p/>Chipotle, which started in 1993, has more than 900 restaurants nationwide, including locations in Greenville and Charlotte. http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1098798.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1098798.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 06 Jan 2010 17:37 EST The Hampton-Preston Mansion, one of the city's oldest homes and a favorite landmark, has a leaky roof and serious damage to the front porch.<p/>The problems are so worrisome, the Historic Columbia Foundation no longer allows tour groups to gather at the front door.<p/>It closed a second-floor balcony used for special events and even moved candlelight tours this Christmas to another site partly out of sensitivity to the issue, director Robin Waites said.<p/>Structural problems at the historic gem, toured by thousands of visitors each year, are being fixed. But they highlight a dilemma for local government leaders.<p/>Since accepting ownership of five historic properties in 2006, Columbia and Richland County have not assessed their condition to determine what structural problems exist and how much it would cost to fix them. http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1098799.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1098799.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 06 Jan 2010 17:37 EST Lexington is ready to add parking downtown amid uncertainty it's needed.<p/>The move is an attempt to assist a private meeting and convention center that may open in the 100 block of East Main Street.<p/>Developers of the project say they need extra parking to make it happen.<p/>But the complex is in limbo, delayed by financing problems in a tight economy.<p/>Despite the doubts, town officials bought two tracts in the 200 block of North Church Street for $1.4 million. http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1098800.html?RSS=general_news http://www.thestate.com/neighbors/story/1098800.html?RSS=general_news Wed, 06 Jan 2010 17:37 EST Richland 2 parents may submit applications online through Jan. 29.<p/>Those who live outside the district may apply to a magnet program. If accepted, the student must live in Richland 2 by June 30 to enroll.<p/>For applications and other details, visit the district Web site at www.richland2.org.