John Griggs
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Articles by John Griggs
Mast General Store, Merrell team up to fight child hunger
Footwear purchases and customer donations will benefit Harvest Hope Food Bank Mast General Store and Merrell are teaming up for the 17th annual Food for Kids campaign to help fight childhood hunger. From Oct. 12-25, Merrell will donate $15 to a children’s fund at a local food security agency for every pair of Merrell shoes or boots purchased at Mast General Store locations or online.
Saluda Shoals Park to host fall foliage paddle Oct. 25
Guided river excursion will explore autumn colors and local wildlife Saluda Shoals Park will host a guided fall foliage paddle Saturday, Oct. 25, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Participants will enjoy autumn colors along the river while learning about the area’s natural history, exploring a river island and observing wildlife. All paddling equipment is included. Participants should allow an additional 30 minutes after the event for shuttle transportation.
Columbia seeks partners for Halloween Day Party
Free Oct. 31 event will offer games, treats and family resources The City of Columbia Parks & Recreation Department is inviting local organizations, businesses and service providers to participate in its Halloween Day Party on Oct. 31 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Dutch Square Mall, 421 Bush River Road. The free event is designed for children ages 12 and younger and will feature games, music, karaoke, costume contests, trivia, treats, prizes and other Halloween activities.
District Five reports gains in state school report cards
Graduation rates rise to highest level in more than two decades School District Five of Lexington and Richland Counties is reporting gains in its latest state school report card results, with improvements in graduation rates, college and career readiness and school ratings. The results, released by the South Carolina Department of Education, reflect progress across several key measures from the 2024-2025 to the 2025-2026 school years.
Philharmonic launches Capital Concerts season Oct. 17
The South Carolina Philharmonic will launch its 62nd season of Capital Concerts, formerly known as the Masterworks Series, Oct. 17 with a performance celebrating the Romantic era of classical music. The six-concert 2026-2027 season features distinctive themes and musical journeys connecting audiences with the stories, eras and ideas that shaped music. Upcoming performances include Beethoven & Blue Jeans on Jan. 9, 2027, celebrating the composer’s legacy, and The Golden Age of Hollywood on Feb.
Black-tie event will showcase new exhibits and plans for museum renovations
The South Carolina State Museum Foundation will host Moonlight & Milestones, a black-tie, red-carpet gala, Oct. 17 from 6:30 to 10 p.m. The event celebrates the museum’s recent facility upgrades, new exhibitions and plans to renovate and modernize nearly 225,000 square feet of public gathering space beginning in 2028. “We will be celebrating where the museum is today while looking ahead to an even more exciting future,” said SCSM Executive Director Amy Bartow-Melia.
District Five breaks ground on new administrative building
Facility will centralize district staff and support professional development School District Five of Lexington and Richland Counties broke ground Oct. 8 on a new district office and administrative and professional development building in Irmo. The facility will be built next to the district’s current office on Dutch Fork Road. It will provide a centralized location for district employees, professional development, collaboration and family engagement.
Faith-and-Blue a rousing success at north Columbia’s Meadowlake Park
The RCSD-hosted mini-festival was one of thousands held across the country By W.
Lake Murray to host Bassmaster Kayak Series Championship
National competition will bring 150 top anglers to the region October 15-17 Lake Murray will welcome approximately 150 of the nation’s top kayak anglers October 15-17 for the 2026 Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series Championship presented by Native Watercraft. Hosted by Capital City/Lake Murray Country (CCLMC), the three-day championship will bring qualified competitors from across the country to compete for the national title.
Congaree National Park to celebrate 50th anniversary
Free weekend events will honor five decades of conservation and community support Congaree National Park will celebrate its 50th anniversary October 17-18 with a weekend of free events honoring its history and role in protecting South Carolina’s natural heritage. Known as “the green heart of South Carolina,” the park preserves the largest intact area of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States and protects a rich diversity of plant and animal life.
Retired General had a bond with Blowfish
By Thomas Grant Jr. U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Daryl Hood left a positive impact on the local community in his two brief years as Commanding General at Fort Jackson. Last Friday’s relinquishment of command ceremony at Victory Field marked an end to his 41 years of service. “When you at his career, you’re looking at the absolute gold standard of what an American soldier can achieve,” said Lt. Gen.
Creepy Crawly Trick-or-Treat Trail set for October 16
Seven Oaks Park event promises Halloween fun for all ages A spooky Halloween adventure awaits families October 16 at Seven Oaks Park during the Creepy Crawly Trick-or-Treat Trail. The event will run from 6 to 7:30 p.m., inviting families to follow a spookily lit trail through the park. Along the way, children can stop at decorated stations to collect candy and surprises from community partners. Children are encouraged to wear costumes and bring their candy buckets for an evening of Halloween fun.
Riverbanks Zoo announces fall and winter events
Seasonal lineup includes dinosaurs, Halloween fun, holiday lights and hands-on workshops Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is welcoming the fall and winter seasons with a lineup of family-friendly experiences, holiday traditions, creative workshops and a prehistoric adventure in the Botanical Garden.
Sheriff Leon Lott to speak at Spring Hill Middle
Event will focus on accountability, choices and student development Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott will speak with parents and students at Spring Hill Middle School on October 20 at 6 p.m. Principal Dr. Stephanie Huckabee invited Lott to share encouragement and guidance with families navigating the challenges of the middle and high school years.
Walk against domestic violence set for October 17
HUSH No More Executive Director Vanessa Guyton and Mayor Bill Danielson are calling upon fellow citizens in the Irmo area to join the organization’s community walk to end domestic violence October 17. It will be held in Moore Park at 7473 Church Street in Irmo. It is will be a family-friendly walk that is accessible for individuals with disabilities. Check in for the all-ages walk begins at 8:30 am with the walk running from 9 am – noon.
The Courage Center’s golf tournament October 19
The 8th Annual Courage Center Golf Tournament will be held October 19 at the Country Club of Lexington featuring a day of golf, fellowship, and supporting recovery in the community. Every player and sponsor helps The Courage Center continue providing recovery support services at no cost to individuals and families across the community. The Courage Center is a nonprofit recovery community organization that supports individuals and families on their journey to recovery from substance use disorder.
Midlands Striper Club announces September event winner
The Midlands Striper Club held its Ladies Tournament on Sept. 19 at Dreher Island. Jayne Ogan won first place and Big Fish honors, followed by Emma Hudspeth in second place and Laura Brooks in third place. Midlands Striper Club is a family-oriented fishing organization dedicated to preserving our fisheries for generations to come. MSC holds monthly meetings at the Flight Deck in Lexington. The doors open at 6:00 pm and Call-to-Order is at 7:00 pm.
Lytes’ 4 TDs lifts Lexington to victory
By Thomas Grant Jr. Lexington got a “Lytes” out performance from its junior running back to earn a Region 4-5A victory last week. Shannon Lytes rushed for 205 yards and four touchdowns in the 38-14 win at White Knoll. Playing at Red Bank before a viewing audience as part of the WACH 57 Whataburger Friday Night Rivals Game of the Week, Lytes helped the Wildcats score 31 unanswered points in the second half.
Education Impact: School Report Cards
By Sarah Ostergaard Next week, families and stakeholders in LR5 will have another opportunity to take a closer look at how our schools are performing. South Carolina’s annual School Report Cards are scheduled for public release on October 15.
The Autumn Leaves Of Youth
By Tom Poland, A Southern Writer TomPoland.net When it’s spring and the rocky shoals spider lilies bloom, spring’s my favorite season. When mornings of chilled air and radiant leaves arrive, fall’s my favorite season. When I think of autumn memories, first on my list are my days standing by the Augusta Highway waiting on the school bus. When you wait on a bus, you’re a captive. Your senses stave off boredom.
When you have to let go of something you still love
By Radley West There’s a difference between letting go of something because you don’t care anymore and letting go because you know it’s time for something different. I’m learning that the second one can be much harder. For almost two decades, I’ve been a gym owner. I didn’t just own a gym. I built one. I watched it grow. I watched members change their lives.
Fall Plant and Flower Festival Returns October 9-11
Three-day event features plants, pumpkins, garden décor and local produce The South Carolina State Farmers Market will host its annual Fall Plant and Flower Festival October 9-11, offering visitors a variety of seasonal plants, flowers, pumpkins and garden-related items. One of the market’s largest annual events, the festival welcomed more than 10,000 visitors last fall, with more than 50 vendors participating.
Halloween Trick-or-Treat Trail Set for Saturday
Saluda Shoals Park event offers family-friendly Halloween fun Families are invited to dress up in their favorite Halloween costumes for the Trick-or-Treat Trail Saturday, October 10, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Saluda Shoals Park East. The trail will follow the path around Leo’s Landing Inclusive Playground, which will remain open for play during the event. All ages are welcome, but the event is recommended for children 12 and younger.
District Five Hosts Parent Leadership Training
Sessions help families prepare for Special Education Parent Advisory Council School District Five of Lexington and Richland Counties hosted a two-part, in-person Parent Leadership Training September 19-20 to help families become more involved in supporting students receiving special education services. The training was led by Family Connection of South Carolina as the district works to establish a Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC).
State Museum to Open ‘In the Making’ Craft Exhibition October 10
Exhibition features 12 South Carolina artists and a variety of contemporary art forms The South Carolina State Museum will open In the Making: Contemporary Craft from South Carolina on Saturday, October 10, showcasing the work of 12 artists and the diversity of contemporary craft across the Palmetto State. The juried exhibition will open in the museum’s Lipscomb Art Gallery and feature works in ceramics, fiber, wood, metal, glass, mixed media and other materials.
Lake Sweep/River Sweep Removes More Than 6,000 Pounds of Debris
350 volunteers help clean up waterways in Richland and Lexington counties Keep the Midlands Beautiful (KMB) coordinated its annual Lake Sweep/River Sweep on September 19, bringing together 350 volunteers to remove litter and debris from Lake Murray and surrounding waterways. The cleanup involved more than 30 event partners, including Dominion Energy, Lexington County Solid Waste Management and PalmettoPride.
District Five to Host Escolares Information Night October 15
Families invited to learn about gifted magnet pathway School District Five of Lexington and Richland Counties will host an Escolares Pathway Information Night Thursday, October 15, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Irmo Middle School. The event will give families an opportunity to learn about the Escolares Pathway and meet district personnel, school administrators and teachers.
Chief Yturria graduates from FBI National Executive Institute
Maria Yturria becomes one of only three Richland County Sheriff’s Department leaders to graduate from the elite six-month course By W.
Home-Grown Film Part of Local Festival
Columbia native Frankiee Veney will bring his award-winning short film BLOODED home for a screening at the South Carolina Black Film Festival October 10 at the South Carolina State Museum. Film screenings begin at 3:30 p.m. Veney is the founder of Nine Ninth, a creative collective that develops culturally grounded work across film, digital media and live entertainment.
Italian Festival Returns to Columbia
After a 12-year absence, the Italian Festival returns to Columbia October 10 at Finlay Park. The free festival will run from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., with a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for 2-2:30 p.m. on the park’s main stage. Festival Lead Organizer Tripp Roche, Columbia Mayor Daniel Rickenmann and Richland County Council Vice Chairman Derek Pugh will deliver remarks before the ribbon cutting.
Boo-vie in the Park Friday
Saluda Shoals Park East will host a Boo-vie in the Park this Friday, October 9, from 6:30-9:30 p.m. The drive-in movie event will feature the Halloween favorite Hocus Pocus. Guests can enjoy the movie from the comfort of their vehicles or bring chairs and watch under the stars. The event is appropriate for all ages. Food trucks and a bar will be available for concessions.
Advance Tickets for S.C. State Fair Now on Sale
Discount admission and ride tickets are now on sale for the 2026 South Carolina State Fair, returning to Columbia October 15-25. Fairgoers who purchase admission and ride vouchers in advance through October 14 can save up to 50% at participating Circle K locations or online at SCStateFair.org.
Lexington Homecoming Queen
McKinleigh Velasquez was crowned Miss 2026 Homecoming at Lexington High School on Sept. 18. McKenzie Kiscaden was first runner-up and Chappell Lackore was second runner-up.
Lake Murray teams open region play
(Photos by GoFlashwin.com) By Thomas Grant Jr. The all-important ‘second season’ has begun for most Lake Murray teams. Both Lexington and River Bluff played its respective Region 4-5A openers at home. The Wildcats had the formidable task of facing 4-time defending champion Dutch Fork. The Silver Foxes entered the game with a 49-2 record in region play since 2015 and winners of 12 straight against Lexington. The host team stayed even with Dutch Fork in the first quarter.
Beating Genghis Khan
Turning a minor disappointment into a measurable victory By W. Thomas Smith Jr. Stupidity, defiance, or calculated risk: Probably a bit of all three. Yesterday morning I had routine blood labs done. Everything looked good – Praise God – though my hemoglobin levels (the culprit in my 2024 stroke) were slightly elevated. So – as I periodically have-to-have done and always will – the doctor ordered the drawing of 500 CCs (a little over a pint) of blood off of me. Not pleasant, but necessary.
SCDNR law enforcement captain graduates from the FBI National Academy
Daniel Baker becomes the sixth S.C. game warden to graduate from the elite Quantico, VA-based school By W. Thomas Smith Jr. Captain Daniel Baker, a 19-year veteran of the S.C. Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) Law Enforcement Division, recently joined a truly elite corps of law enforcement officers nationwide – even within his own SCDNR – when he graduated from the Quantico, VA-based FBI National Academy.
Carnaval del Barrio returns to Columbia Saturday
Free festival celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with music, food, cultural performances and family activities COLUMBIA, S.C. — Carnaval del Barrio, one of the Midlands’ largest celebrations of Hispanic Heritage Month, will be held Saturday, Oct. 3, at Finlay Park in downtown Columbia. Admission is free.
State Museum to host Accessibility Morning this Saturday
COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina State Museum will host an Accessibility Morning Saturday, Oct. 3, from 9 to 11 a.m., offering individuals, families and groups a more disability-friendly museum experience. The program features a quieter, sensory-friendly environment, American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and other accessibility resources.
Newberry Oktoberfest celebrates 25 years
NEWBERRY, S.C. — A local fall tradition is reaching a milestone as Newberry’s annual Oktoberfest celebrates its 25th anniversary Friday, Oct. 2, and Saturday, Oct. 3, in downtown Newberry. The festivities begin Friday from 4 to 8 p.m. with Brews and Bites, featuring live music on the entertainment stage. Vendors will offer a variety of items, including German dishes. Official event merchandise will be available for purchase both days.
Gray Collegiate girls’ swim team wins Soda City Invitational
The Gray Collegiate Academy girls’ swim team claimed first place at the Soda City Invitational held Monday at the University of South Carolina. The Lady War Eagles scored 260 points to finish ahead of Chapin, River Bluff, Spring Valley and Aiken, which rounded out the top five in the team standings.
Sharing God’s Love to hold 11th annual BBQ fundraiser Oct. 6
Sharing God’s Love will hold its 11th annual BBQ fundraiser Tuesday, Oct. 6, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Coldwell Banker’s Irmo/Lake Murray office, 7464 Woodrow St. in Irmo. Donations will be rewarded with a pulled pork BBQ plate with all the fixings. Guests can dine at the office or use the drive-thru. Proceeds will support the community outreach efforts of Sharing God’s Love, which has served families in the Midlands since 1984.
District Five candidate forum October 6
District Five Teacher Forum will be hosting a candidate forum for the upcoming school board elections in Lexington and Richland counties October 6 at 6:30 pm at the Center for Advanced Technical Studies. The event will include both Richland and Lexington County school board candidates. Teachers and staff, students, and community members are invited to submit questions using at https://forms..
Artificial Intelligence and You
By Mike DuBose What if the next major change in your life begins with questions you type into a computer? Suppose that same technology helps you solve everyday issues, yet forces your children or grandchildren to re-think their careers and education. The possibilities are exciting, while others are downright scary! We already take remarkable technology for granted. Signals from satellites help drivers find their destinations or even drive our cars.
Celebrate Freedom Foundation to bring STEM education event to Irmo
Free community event will feature helicopter landing, STEM displays, veterans, first responders and career opportunities IRMO, S.C. — Celebrate Freedom Foundation will bring science, technology, engineering and mathematics to life during a free STEM Education Event on Saturday, Oct. 3, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Moore Park, 7473 Church St. in Irmo.
Golf Tips for Seniors: The Very Full Swing
A three-handicap golfer from Port St. Lucie, Florida, spent the day at Par T, where we had a chance to examine her swing. She explained that she had shortened her backswing and was now keeping more balls in the fairway. Despite her shorter backswing, she remains a highly competitive golfer with a three handicap. She has always had a long, powerful swing, with a huge shoulder turn and a backswing reminiscent of John Daly’s long-drive style.
River Bluff girls’ golf team rallies to win state invitational
Photo by River Bluff High School By Thomas Grant, Jr. The River Bluff High School girls’ golf team rallied from an 11-point deficit to win the Women’s South Carolina Golf Association High School Invitational at Moss Creek Country Club in Hilton Head Island. The Lady Gators finished five strokes ahead of Conway to claim the title. Kelly Huang placed fifth and Merritt Wham finished 15th in the individual standings, giving River Bluff two golfers in the top 15.
Gilbert wins non-region matchup with Class 5A Chapin
Photo from Gilbert By Thomas Grant Jr. “We’re not afraid of anybody. We’re not ducking smoke like the kids say.” Those were Gilbert head coach Ozzie Exume’s words following the 28-24 “Homecoming” win over Class 5A Chapin. Chanelle Adams was named Miss Homecoming 2026 at Gilbert High School Down 10-0 to open the game, the Class 3A Indians rallied back for the first of five lead changes. With 6:07 left in the game, they took the lead for good on a 9-yard touchdown run by Army commit Gavin Elliott.
SC Water Utilities expands service territory to support Scout Motors facility
COLUMBIA, S.C. — The Public Service Commission of South Carolina has approved an application by South Carolina Water Utilities (SCWU) to expand its service territory to support the upcoming Scout Motors manufacturing facility at Blythewood Industrial Park.
Public Lands Are for the People—So Get Outside
With Labor Day behind us, we’re getting closer to cooler weather with every passing day – the kind of days that make a bike ride at Harbison State Forest, a hike at Congaree National Park, or a hunt in the Sumter National Forest not just tolerable but even inviting. South Carolina has more than three million acres of public lands, owned by local, state, and federal agencies, along with a handful of non-profits.
One Life Fitness-Forest Acres hosts strength and power event
Local powerlifter Lawrence Brimfield breaks NFL Combine record on bench press By W. Thomas Smith Jr. Seven weeks after One Life Fitness (1LF)–Sandhills hosted its first-ever 1,000-pound club powerlifting event in northeast Columbia, one of that gym’s sister facilities, 1LF-Forest Acres held its also-first Fall4All event with the same big-three powerlifting events (bench, squat, deadlift) with an additional BENCH-OR-DIE feature added into the mix. Fall4All was held, Saturday, Sept. 26.
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