#Lion Club Annual Event

[queermtl]

Queer MTL : quoi faire en janvier 2024 / Queer MTL things to do: January 2024

La nouvelle année commence, et avec elle, une toute nouvelle saison de plaisir queer! Ce mois-ci, Montréal propose une foule d’événements, de soirées et d’expériences uniques qui font briller toutes les nuances de l’arc-en-ciel LGBTQ+. Entre prestations drag et activités communautaires, festivals bien en vue et événements underground, voici notre sélection des choses les plus gaies à faire dans la ville. Pour rester à l’affût de tout ajout, suivez Queer MTL sur Instagram, Twitter, Facebook et Tumblr! Vous présentez un événement? Écrivez-nous!

It’s time for a new year to begin, and with it comes a whole new season of queer fun! This month, Montréal is stuffed to the brim with events, parties and unique experiences painted in all the colours of the LGBTQ+ rainbow. From drag to community, circuit to underground, here’s some of our picks for the best LGBTQ+ things to do in the city. For further announcements, including those not announced at time of publication, follow Queer MTL on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and Tumblr! Got an event coming up? DM it our way!

LEGEND

🎥 Cinema 👑 Drag 🥳 Parties 🎶 Concert ✊ Activism 🏳️‍⚧️ Trans 🏳️‍🌈 Community 😆 Comedy 🎭 Performance 💪 Sports and Dance 👯‍♀️ Dance 🎤 Karaoke 🎨 Arts 📚 Literary / Educational 👠 Ballroom / Vogue

Mercredi 3 janvier / Wednesday, January 3 👑 Full Gisèle : Après-Noël avec Gisèle Lullaby, Marla Deer, Bobépine, Velma Jones et Kelly Torrieli, Cabaret Mado

🎨 Drink & Draw par @Hommehomo, Bar Le Cocktail

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives gaies du Québec, en commémoration des 40 ans des Archives gaies du Québec

Jeudi 4 janvier / Thursday, January 4 👑 Soirée King with George Édouard Baron des bois du matin and Cismon Genderfuck, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Girls’ Night Out : Dancing Queen with Krystella Fame, Kiara, Démone Lastrange and Misty Waterfalls, Cabaret Mado

👑  Canada’s Drag Race Season 4 Viewing Party with Uma Gahd, Bar Le Cocktail

🎨 Art Battle Montréal, Bar La Shop

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Vendredi 5 janvier / Friday, January 5 👑 Vendredi Fou with Michel Dorion, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Mado Reçoit with Mado Lamotte, Nana, Jimmy Moore, Celes, Démone Lastrange and Victoria de Rockwell, Cabaret Mado

🤠 Club Bolo—Danse Country Montréal meet on Fridays at the Association sportive et communautaire du Centre-Sud

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Samedi 6 janvier / Saturday, January 6 👑 Drôles de Drags with Miss Butterfly, Ciathanight, Crystal Starz or Emma Déjàvu in rotation, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Mado Reçoit with Mado Lamotte, Nana, Jimmy Moore, Celes, Démone Lastrange and Victoria de Rockwell, Cabaret Mado

😂 The 2nd Annual Quiz Master Brian Montréal Trivia Championships with Quiz Master Brian, Burgundy Lion

🎤 Bareoke: Strip Karaoke, Café Cléopatra

🥳 Queen & Queer’s call for beginner and emerging DJs to spin at their upcoming club nights closes today. See here for details. 

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Dimanche 7 janvier / Sunday, January 7 👑 Dimanche Show with Michel Dorion, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Le Tracy Show with Tracy Trash, Marla Deer, Niko Lubie, Ruby Doll and Bobépine, Cabaret Mado

Lundi 8 janvier / Monday, January 8 👑 Ego Trip : Bonne Féte Walter with Walter Ego, Pétula Claque, Jay Show, Ruby Doll, RV Métal, Rock Bière and Fay Miss, Cabaret Mado

Mardi 9 janvier / Tuesday, January 9 👑 Full Gisèle : Star Académie with Gisèle Lullaby, Pétula Claque, Serge La Drag, Crystal Starz, Misty Waterfalls and Eden Ashes, Cabaret Mado

🎶 Plaid with Automatisme, Théâtre Fairmount

😆 Stand Up St. Henri Open Mic focusing on women, non-binary, queer and allied comedians, Impro Montréal

Mercredi 10 janvier / Wednesday, January 10 👑 4 Queens Pour Nous with Venus, Denim, Aurora Matrix and Kiara, Cabaret Mado

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Jeudi 11 janvier / Thursday, January 11 🎭 Cabaret Queer with Tracy Trash, Justin Jackson, Tina Leon, Crystal Starz, Eva Lou Rhinelander & Ilse Baryshnikov, Fabien L’Amour and Sasha Baga, Cabaret Mado

👑  Canada’s Drag Race Season 4 Viewing Party with Uma Gahd, Bar Le Cocktail

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Vendredi 12 janvier / Friday, January 12 🥳 Cerise Noire goth night with Shillelagh Jones and Elizabeth Leslie, Bar NDQ

👑 Vendredi Fou with Michel Dorion, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Mado Reçoit with Mado Lamotte, Nana, Kiara, Lana Dalida and Kitana, Cabaret Mado

🏳️‍🌈 Spring Into Action 2024: Outrage, call for submissions closes today, QPIRG | GRIP McGill

🤠 Club Bolo—Danse Country Montréal meet on Fridays at the Association sportive et communautaire du Centre-Sud

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Samedi 13 janvier / Saturday, January 13 📚 The Violet Hour Book Club reads Leila Marshy’s The Philistine, Archives gaies du Québec

👑 Drôles de Drags with Miss Butterfly, Ciathanight, Crystal Starz or Emma Déjàvu in rotation, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Mado Reçoit with Mado Lamotte, Nana, Kiara, Lana Dalida and Kitana, Cabaret Mado

🏳️‍🌈 Montréal Women’s Club: Intro to Dating + Brunch, Montréal Women’s Club

👯 Tango/Salsa Queer holds lessons every Saturday, visit queertangomtl.com for information or contact tango.queer@hotmail.com or call +1 (514) 709-4678 for prices and signup information, Espaces des Arts

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Dimanche 14 janvier / Sunday, January 14 👑 Bonne fête Chouchoune with Michel Dorion and Crystal Starz, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Le Tracy Show with Tracy Trash, Pétula Claque, Sasha Baga, Lulu Shade and Robin Brutal, Cabaret Mado

Lundi 15 janvier / Monday, January 15 👑 Bière et Métal with Foxy Lexxi Brown and Fabien L’Amour, Cabaret Mado

Mardi 16 janvier / Tuesday, January 16 💪 PWHL Montreal—Season 2023-2024, Place Bell

👑 Full Gisèle : Mean Girls with Gisèle Lullaby, Pétula Claque, Sasha Baga, Lulu Shade, Lady Guidoune and Démone LaStrange, Cabaret Mado

😆 Stand Up St. Henri Open Mic focusing on women, non-binary, queer and allied comedians, Impro Montréal

Mercredi 17 janvier / Wednesday, January 17 👑 La fabuleuse guerre des pouces! with Jessie Précieuse, Victoire de Rockwell, Kelly Torrieli and Kitana, Cabaret Mado

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Jeudi 18 janvier / Thursday, January 18 🎶 Madonna: The Celebration Tour with Bob the Drag Queen, Centre Bell

👑 Sashalicious : F*ck les Résolutions with Sasha Baga, Kelly Torrieli, Kitana and Miss Daniels Vyxen, Cabaret Mado 

👑  Canada’s Drag Race Season 4 Viewing Party with Uma Gahd, Bar Le Cocktail

😆 Music Trivia with Quiz Master Brian, MainLine Theatre

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Vendredi 19 janvier / Friday, January 19 😆 Nataly Aukar: My Turn to Talk, Le Studio TD

👑 Vendredi Fou with Michel Dorion, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Mado Reçoit with Mado Lamotte, Cabaret Mado

🤠 Club Bolo—Danse Country Montréal meet on Fridays at the Association sportive et communautaire du Centre-Sud

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Samedi 20 janvier / Saturday, January 20 🎶 Madonna: The Celebration Tour with Bob the Drag Queen, Centre Bell

🥳 MPU: Truth or Dare | Édition Spéciale Madonna with Jimmy Moore, Casquivano, Aizysse Baga, DJ Jeffany and Frantastik, Le Belmont

🎶 Fleece with Sorry Girls, La Sala Rossa

👑 Drôles de Drags with Miss Butterfly, Ciathanight, Crystal Starz or Emma Déjàvu in rotation, Bar Le Cocktail

🎤 Bareoke: Strip Karaoke, Café Cléopatra

👑 Jimmy Moore personnifie Madonna: The Blond Ambition Tour, Cabaret Mado

👑 Mado Reçoit with Mado Lamotte, Cabaret Mado

👯 Tango/Salsa Queer holds lessons every Saturday, visit queertangomtl.com for information or contact tango.queer@hotmail.com or call +1 (514) 709-4678 for prices and signup information, Espaces des Arts

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Dimanche 21 janvier / Sunday, January 21 👑 Dimanche Show with Michel Dorion, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Le Tracy Show with Tracy Trash, Lady Boom Boom, Marla Deer, Peggy Sue, Derek Wood and Kiara, Cabaret Mado

Lundi 22 janvier / Monday, January 22 👑 Shade Like Winters with Lulu Shade, Sarah Winters, Ad’Horrible, Démone LaStrange and Amy Thyst, Cabaret Mado

Mardi 23 janvier / Tuesday, January 23 👑 Full Gisèle : Madonna with Gisèle Lullaby, Lady Boom Boom, Tracy Trash, Marla Deer and Ruby Doll, Cabaret Mado

🎶 L’Rain with Yves Jarvis, Bar Le Ritz PDB

😆 Stand Up St. Henri Open Mic focusing on women, non-binary, queer and allied comedians, Impro Montréal

Mercredi 24 janvier / Wednesday, January 24 👑 Sitcom Bonanza featuring The Nanny, Friends, Will & Grace and others starring the artists of Cabaret Mado, Cabaret Mado

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Jeudi 25 janvier / Thursday, January 25 👑 Trashilaz : Next Generation with Aizysse Baga and judges Lady Boom Boom and Gina Gates, Cabaret Mado

🎶 Alicia Moffet with Pelch, Théâtre Desjardins

👑  Canada’s Drag Race Season 4 Viewing Party with Uma Gahd, Bar Le Cocktail

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Vendredi 26 janvier / Friday, January 26 👑 Vendredi Fou with Michel Dorion, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Mado Reçoit with Mado Lamotte, Cabaret Mado

🤠 Club Bolo—Danse Country Montréal meet on Fridays at the Association sportive et communautaire du Centre-Sud

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Samedi 27 janvier / Saturday, January 27 💪 PWHL Montreal—Season 2023-2024, Place Bell

🥳 ZMAGRYA with Manalou, Zina and Mokro, Ctrllab

🥳 NPC Rave with D. Blavatsky, MonsieurMadam, Casa Kobrae, Palladium, Technique Nado and more, 257 rue St-Ferdinand

👑 Drôles de Drags with Miss Butterfly, Ciathanight, Crystal Starz or Emma Déjàvu in rotation, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Mado Reçoit with Mado Lamotte, Cabaret Mado

👑 Jimmy Moore personnifie Taylor Swift, Cabaret Mado

🏳️‍🌈 Atelier : Devenir parent (personnes trans ou non-binaires), Coalition des familles LGBT+ (CFLGBT+)

👯 Tango/Salsa Queer holds lessons every Saturday, visit queertangomtl.com for information or contact tango.queer@hotmail.com or call +1 (514) 709-4678 for prices and signup information, Espaces des Arts

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Dimanche 28 janvier / Sunday, January 28 😆 A Very Pretentious Comedy Show #13—he/him edition with Ash Davis, Serag Meletian, Walter Lyng, Matt Shury, Tony McIntyre, Tash Naved, Andrew Khoury, Joe Comedian and music from Ronnie Piano, Café La Lingo Verte

👑 Dimanche Show with Michel Dorion, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Le Tracy Show with Tracy Trash, Pétula Claque, Lana Dalida, Krystella Fame and Misty Waterfalls, Cabaret Mado

Mardi 30 janvier / Tuesday, January 30 👑 Full Gisèle : Bond Drag 007 with Gisèle Lullaby, Prudence, Victoire de Rockwell, Kiara and Celes, Cabaret Mado

😆 Stand Up St. Henri Open Mic focusing on women, non-binary, queer and allied comedians, Impro Montréal

Mercredi 31 janvier / Wednesday, January 31 🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

OTHERS / AUTRES

🏐 Les Ratons-Chasseurs (Montréal’s LGBTA dodgeball group) holds regular events. Keep an eye on their Facebook for upcoming opportunities to join in and play. 

🕹Montréal Gaymers hosts regular gatherings including board game nights and gaming gatherings. Check their Facebook for what’s next!

🏃🏾Join the Out-Run run and workout club for people relating to the queer / sapphic experience. Details on their Instagram!

🐦 Bird lovers should keep their eye on Queer Birders' regularly scheduled birdwatching events and excursions. Join the Facebook group and get those binoculars at the ready.

👠 Twice a month on every second Tuesday, Bring It! hosts an OTA night of ballroom and vogue with commentator and DJ. Follow their Instagram for dates and details.

[naturecoaster]

Story by Marcia Beasley The Floral City community has planned a full evening of fun experiences for visitors at 2024 Floral City Heritage Night on Friday, December 6 from 5:00 to 9:00 pm, as part of the Annual Floral City Heritage Days. The Historic Duval-Metz House will be decorated for the holidays, lending a special atmosphere to the tours. Bowls of citrus and magnolia dress the dining room table, greenery fills a stoneware crock on the hearth and candles light each window. Boughs of grape vines hanging from the old citrus pickin' ladder are adorned with festive ornaments and wreaths decorate spaces between doors on the porch-over-porch. One and all are invited to “Christmas at the Duval House” for tours, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, have an old-fashioned photo taken, bid on silent auction items, participate in the scavenger hunt, and consume hot chocolate, desserts, and pretzels. A donation of $5 each or $10 per family covers all these activities and more! The oldest residency in Citrus County is located at the corner of Orange Avenue/CR 48 and Old Floral City Road in downtown Floral City. Other fun family activities and festive music will be available to enjoy at the event. Santa's Village and Old-Fashioned Photo Opportunities On the Duval-Metz House lawn at Santa's Village, Santa and Mrs. Claus have left their reindeer and are ready to visit with children of all ages and listen to their wishes for gifts under their tree. This is a great opportunity to have your photograph taken with Santa or Santa and Mrs. Claus.  At another location, a professional photographer will have a setting and accessories to provide an old fashion look to take your picture in that venue.   Under a well-lit tent, tables will be laden with beautiful, useful, and valuable items for a Silent Auction; all may make written bids.  If you remain until the end of the evening, you may take home your item, if you were the highest bidder. What would a night like this be without an opportunity to procure a cup of hot chocolate? That hot drink and a wide variety of yummy desserts and other drinks will be available.  Also, it is planned to have special pretzels available either in bites or soft pretzels grilled to perfection. Thomas Nast’s 1863 Santa was created the same year the Historic Duval-Metz House was built!  Come to “Christmas at the Dual House” and hear his story and more on Friday, December 6 from 5:00 to 9:00 pm.  Thomas Nast's First Santa and a Scavenger Hunt Trail Residents from Camp E-Nini-Hassee will be on hand to tell the story of Thomas Nast and his first Santa. That first Santa was drawn in 1863 the same year this historic house was built!   Learn more about this first white-bearded Santa in his suit and compare him to the Santas of today. A special treat awaits visitors at the Scavenger Hunt Trail.  This is a newly opened trail on the south wooded acre where an eventual “Path to the Past” is planned.  This area was adjacent to the Seminole Village “Cho-illy-hajo,” which was burned during the Second Seminole War. The initial trail has been cleared and will be set up as a Scavenger Hunt on the night of December 6. Duval House Holiday Tours to be Part of Floral City Candles, Carols & Carriages Evening December 6, 2024 Be prepared to spend the full four hours in Floral City that Friday night because one must leave time for the Lion's Fish Fry, the 4-H club's grilled sandwiches, and a walk or a horse-drawn wagon ride down the luminary-lined Avenue of Oaks with carolers and music along the way at the historic homes. One will not want to miss the Heritage Museum and Country Store. The museum features many exhibits, and the store has many items that make great Christmas gifts. The Floral City Library will be open with activities, and the cedar tree in front will be all lit up for the holidays. Visit the Duval Preservation Trust's Facebook page at DuvalMetzHouse or call 352-341-0063 or 352-726-7740 for more details. This corner of Orange Avenue/CR 48 and Old Floral City Road will be the only entrance to the Duval-Metz House for their activities during the traditional “Candles, Carols & Carriages” evening sponsored by the Floral City Heritage Council. Read the full article

[svalleynow]

Jasper's "Jack-O-Lantern Jamboree" returns this Saturday

Jasper's "Jack-O-Lantern Jamboree" returns this Saturday...

The annual Joshua K. Jennings “Jack-O-Lantern Jamboree” returns to the Marion County Courthouse Square in Jasper this Saturday. The popular annual event is hosted by the Jasper Lion’s Club and the Town of Jasper offers a free, safe trunk-or-treating event filled with family fun, live entertainment, carnival games, petting zoo, great food, best costume contests, and more! The event starts on…

[grumpajoesplace]

Lions Candy Day

Today, tomorrow, and Sunday, Lions Clubs all around Illinois will be standing on street corners, in front of businesses, and anywhere people move, holding and shaking their buckets to solicit donations of change or greenbacks and handing givers a roll of candy. Candy Day is an annual event and a tradition to raise money to support the Lions of Illinois Foundation (LCIF). The Foundation provides…

[judyreppart]

Ely’s Renaissance Faire & Pumpkin Festival Returns to White Pine County this October The 2024 event on October 19 features live combat, pumpkin festivities, and more The Ely Lions Club, in partnership with White Pine County Tourism and Recreation, is excited to announce the return of its most anticipated annual event: the Ely Renaissance Faire ... Read more

[pooma-today]

The National UN Volunteers-India

World Pharmacist Day - 25 SEP 2024

On the occasion of World Pharmacist Day, celebrated annually on September 25th, a distinguished event unfolded in Chadayamangalam, honoring the exemplary service and dedication of Shri Kochu Krishnan Nair, a senior pharmacist esteemed by his community and peers alike. The recognition ceremony, a testament to his unwavering commitment and service, was graced by the presence of many distinguished guests and community members.

Presiding over the event was Mr. Deepu RS, a representative of the National UN Volunteers-India and a noted film producer, who played a pivotal role in acknowledging the exceptional contributions of Mr. Nair by presenting him with a certificate and memento. This gesture, applauded by the UN Volunteers team, underscored the significant impact of pharmacists in community health and well-being.

In a touching gesture, Mr. P. Unnikrishnan, Patron of the Shanti Nagar Residence Association and President of the Jadayu Lions Club, alongside media professional Mr. Chadayamangalam Sajeev, adorned Mr. Nair with a Ponnada, a traditional mark of respect and honor. Their actions symbolized the deep appreciation and respect the community holds for Mr. Nair's tireless service.

Former Ward Member and Residence Association President Mrs. Sajeena Beevi opened the event with a heartfelt welcome, setting the tone for an afternoon filled with gratitude and celebration. Under the presidency of Mr. P. Unnikrishnan, the proceedings highlighted not only the individual achievements of Mr. Nair but also the collective spirit of community and cooperation.

Warm greetings and commendations flowed from well-wishers like Kishore and Ranjith, reflecting the widespread admiration and affection that Mr. Nair has earned over the years.

The event was attended by a diverse group of participants, including journalists, officials from various residence associations, cultural activists, and members of the public, all eager to partake in this celebration of service and excellence.

The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Kochu Krishna Pilla, encapsulating the collective gratitude felt by all present. This auspicious gathering did not merely honor the past achievements of a stalwart in pharmacy but also inspired future generations to continue the legacy of dedication and service exemplified by Shri Kochu Krishnan Nair.

[wausaupilot]

Kronenwetter Lions Club readies for Fall Festival

The event will be held Sept. 21.

KRONENWETTER — The Kronenwetter Lions Club will hold its annual Fall Festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 21 at the Kronenwetter Municipal Center, 1582 Interstate-39 Frontage Road. This family friendly event promises a full day of fun, food and festivities for all ages. Event highlights Craft and vendor show: Browse through a wide array of handcrafted items and local products. Find unique…

[ledenews]

Elm Grove Business Association Presents the 2024 Elm Grove Fall Fest

The Elm Grove Business Association is proud to present the 2024 Elm Grove Fall Fest. The event will be held Saturday, September 28th, 2024, from 1-7 p.m. at the Osiris Shriners Temple at 1 Monument Drive in Wheeling. The event will feature live music, food trucks, craft/artisan vendors, inflatables, and games for all ages. Admission to the fall fest is free. The event is sponsored by WesBanco, Wildlife League, The Lewis Financial Group, Dairy Queen, Bleifus Tire Service, Vape and Skate, Uncle Pete’s, First Choice Real Estate, Nelson Croft, and the Lion’s Club. Kristy Ferguson, President of the Elm Grove Business Association says, “This is our now 3rd annual Elm Grove Fall Festival and it just keeps getting better each year. Once again, we have a great line-up of events, music, games, and over forty vendors for everyone to enjoy.” Ferguson added, “We at the Elm Grove Business Association also want to thank the Osiris Shriners for hosting this great event again.” The event will feature craft/artisan vendors, who will be displaying their creations and products for purchase. The event will also offer inflatables from Trips of Fun, for the children, along with an assortment of games. These activities are scheduled to run the entire duration of the event. For the live music lovers Verdict and our special guest Creek Don’t Rise from Hurricane WV are slated to appear on the Elm Grove Business Association stage. Also, if you are looking for an opportunity to display your competitiveness, there will be an adult games section for you to show off your skills. “The Elm Grove Fall Fest is shaping up to be a fun time again for the entire family. Ferguson added, “We had such a wonderful time and turnout with last year’s event, that the Elm Grove Business Association wanted to make sure this year’s event was just as good, if not better. Everyone loves coming out for live music, vendors, games, and food, so come join us Saturday, September 28th, at Osiris Shriners Temple in the Grove for a day of fun.” Learn more about the event by contacting: Kristy Ferguson at the Elm Grove Business Association.  elmgrovebusinessassociation@gmail.com 304-563-5674 Read the full article

[hamzaaslam]

Hong Kong Wins 2026 Lions International Convention

Energises 20,000 Attendees with City’s Unique Charms HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 August 2024 – Hong Kong has secured the hosting right of the prestigious Lions International Convention in 2026, one of the world’s largest service club events. With an estimated 20,000 attendees from over the globe expected to descend upon the city, this annual gathering of Lions Clubs…

[readingrecap]

👟 Journey for Sight 5K Road Race & 1 Mile Walk

It’s mid-July, and that means it’s time for the Reading Lions Club and The Friends of Reading Recreation (FORR) annual charity 5K Road Race and 1 Mile Walk. The Journey For Sight will take place Thursday evening, July 18th, at 6:30 pm, beginning and ending at Memorial Park on Harrison Street in Reading. Join us for this worthwhile event and have a fun family evening right here in the heart of…

[beckleysbooks]

Coming Home

This past week my travels took me back home where I had an opportunity to visit with my mother and do further research on the sequel to my historical fiction, "Oh! Susannah".

It was good to spend some time in the hometown and just not pass through; brought back memories actually. Back in the day, the village was a bustling place with lots of businesses downtown, which drew locals to a place they could gather and mingle. There were parks, tidy homes and clean streets. This is just not me reminiscing. The residents actually took a great deal of pride in where they lived.

I shouldn't have been surprised, but as I left town early Friday morning, I was struck at how beautiful downtown is at present, brick-paved streets, nearly all the shops occupied and showing pride of ownership. It occurred to me that, while other communities had fallen on hard times, my hometown looked as good as ever! Matter of fact, there are still well-maintained parks, tidy homes - my mother won "Yard Of The Week" for her meticulous gardens, and yes, the city's streets are still clean.

Unbekownst to me when I planned this visit, the annual Homecoming was scheduled for last week, and this event typically draws everyone to the Community Center and Brock Park, if for nothing else then to support the local Lion's Club by purchasing a "Lion Burger".

Talk about bringing back memories, my mind flashed back to the 1970's when the anticipation of The Homecoming was the height of summer. These memories, though, are not all good. Back then, I mowed lawns for two dozen, mostly older ladies in town, who basically paid for my first two years of college. To them I'll always be grateful, but, there were days when the last thing I wanted to do was mow lawns. One instance in particular was when I was cutting the grass of an elderly lady whose granddaughter was visiting. Her name was "Annette". My arrival had the effect of moving Annette off of her beach towel where she had been soaking up the summer's rays. But, she announced, that was ok because she was going to go across the street and over the bridge and take in the "matinee" that the carnival guys were putting on that afternoon. Looking across that lazy trickle of a stream the locals know as The Little Sandy Creek, oh how I wanted to go to the homecoming that afternoon. I would give anything just to be there and take in the atmosphere, maybe buy something to eat or enjoy an amusement ride. So close, yet so far away.

I arrived at my mother's house on Thursday, having missed the week's main event - The Parade - which usually lasts for hours. I've always been amazed how there is anybody left to watch the parade when seemingly everyone from the community is in the parade!

Anyway, with no pre-arrangements in place, I was going to suggest that my mother and I go down to the homecoming and get a couple Lion Burgers for dinner, for it didn't seem too crowded when I had driven by. However, my mother had our dinner all laid out on the table, just awaiting my arrival, and I never brought up my idea of going to the park.

It struck me how I was ok not going to the homecoming, genuinely indifferent after all of these years. This just seemed so out of character for me. It is sobering when one acknowledges that when and where has remained the same, and it's only me who has changed.

[spaciousreasoning]

Sticking Close to Home

Nancy and I did not leave the house Friday, except to walk into the yard to greet Nancy’s sister Joan, who drove up from Cottage Grove for a short visit. And then we walked her back out to the car when she left. We also checked the mail, but nothing came that day.

It was a nice visit, with Nancy and Joan swapping stories from their youth, most of which I had never heard. And it turns out that Joan is not entirely happy with her living arrangements in Cottage Grove. She doesn’t utilize several of the services provided by the senior living center but still has to pay for them. She may eventually look for other arrangements in the area.

After Joan left, Nancy and I started working on the chocolate chip and walnut cookies for a Sunday event that the Mohawk Grange is participating in with the Marcola Lions Club. Grange members are providing cookies to go with meals the Lions are selling for their annual Flag Day BBQ. Any extra cookies will be sold at the Grange booth.

Our evening’s entertainment began with the streamed version of Stephen Colbert from the previous night, and then we enjoyed the first episode of the third series of “Bäckström,” a Swedish crime drama available from AcornTV. It is based on Leif G. W. Persson’s book series about an arrogant but brilliant detective.

There was an American version that starred Rainn Wilson which appeared in 2015 on Fox, but it was cancelled after one season of 13 episodes.

[astronomyforastrologers]

The solstice site older (and bigger) than Stonehenge

Just 38km north of Stonehenge, Avebury draws its own annual solstice visitors who want a more up close and personal experience with Britain's ancient standing stones.

Uranus (rediscovery or renewal of ideas from the past (Britain's ancient standing stones)) trine Arrokoth (rituals that honor the sky, considerations of parts to whole (the stone circle here is the largest in Britain, and the among the oldest, dating to 2850-2200 BCE)).

No place on Earth is quite as linked to the summer solstice as Stonehenge, the Neolithic standing stones in central England that align with the sunrise during the longest day of the year (this year on 20 June).

But just 38km north, another site, estimated to be 800 years older and 10 times larger in diameter, draws its own annual solstice visitors – especially those who want a more up-close and personal experience with Britain's ancient standing stones.

"Stonehenge is for show, Avebury is for the pro," says Alice Hues, owner of The Farm at Avebury, a generational farm and guesthouse. With its 100 original stones (not all still standing), the stone circle here is the largest in Britain, and the among the oldest, dating to 2850-2200 BCE. The entire henge completely encircles the tiny village of Avebury, which includes a handful of shops, homes and the Red Lion Pub – the only public house in the world to sit within a stone circle.

Unlike its more famous cousin where the stones can no longer be touched, the Avebury stones can always be freely approached. Ranging in height from 3.6m to 4.2m, the tall sarsen stones offer a portal back in time.

"I love Stonehenge, but it's always a bit of a conveyor belt – you have to be on a little trail and then get snapped back at the end," says Lally MacBeth, co-founder of The Stone Club, which offers gatherings and events for standing stone enthusiasts. "At Avebury, you can go right up the stones. You have time to do a drawing, or you could write something and you wouldn't be disturbed. It feels very spacious."

In particular, the solstice draws more young families, as the vibe here is laid back and less hedonistic. "It's a safe space to attend and share the magic of summer solstice with younger children," says Donna Byatt, owner of the shop Elements of Avebury. "Many will bring a picnic blanket and watch the Kings Drummers as they drum down the Sun on the evening of the solstice."

More than a moment

If seeing both stone circles is a priority, you can catch the spectacular dawn Sun show at Stonehenge on the solstice, and then drive 40 minutes to Avebury for more leisurely exploration. With fewer tourist hordes, the latter site offers both the time and space to step back into history.

How to get here

It's easiest to drive, but trains run from London to Swindon, the closest station, and then taxis or buses are easily accessible. Keep in mind that buses stop running from the stone circle before midnight, so plan ahead if you plan to stay late with the revelers.

The stone circle is just one of many Neolithic and Bronze Age sites here. The town is covered in ancient human landmarks — like the West Kennet Long Barrow, one of Britain's largest chambered tombs; Silbury Hill, a mysterious human-made hill that still confounds archaeologists in its presence and purpose; and Windmill Hill, where ancient animal bones in concentric ditches suggest a place of feasting or trading.

While there's not the breathtaking stone-Sun alignment at the summer solstice, Avebury's stones and landscape speak to the cycles of life, which naturally connects to the cycles of the seasons and the solstice, says Matthew Shaw, also a co-founder of The Stone Club. "I spent one solstice with Michael Dames who wrote The Avebury Cycle in the 1970s and he explained how the landscape connected to a human life."

In Dames' theory, Silbury Hill represents the pregnant Earth, the prime of summer and solstice; looking into the stone circle represents looking on the autumn or harvest of your life; West Kennet Long Barrow represents the end of life and winter, while Swallowhead Springs – a holy spring and well — represents the birth of new life and the renewal of the spring.

"[Dames] influenced our idea that you can lay a cycle of a year in the cycle of your own life in relation to physical sites in the landscape," says Shaw. "In Avebury, you could walk a lifetime in two and a half to three hours and take yourself through that cycle."

It's a landscape that's well worth exploring during the longest day of the year, especially if the weather holds up. The history of the site and the stone circle can be experienced at the small but informative Alexander Keiller Museum, but the rest of the sites feel much more organic, meant to be experienced physically rather than intellectually.

Where to eat

Stop for a pint at the Red Lion, the only public house in the world located within a stone circle, and sit outside on one of the many patio tables to watch the crowds roll in. A little further down the road, Waggon and Horses looks set out of time with its authentic thatched roof, and was frequently visited by Charles Dickens.

For Hues, the Long Barrow is the place that always surprises her. "It is phenomenally rich in history, but it's so accessible. You can climb amongst it or have a picnic on top of it," she says. "You can take from it exactly what you want, whether for a solstice celebration or just for a Sunday morning."

No single historical site among the vast Avebury landscape draws an abundance of crowds during the summer solstice, except for the stone circle itself. Those crowds start growing when the sun starts its long descent.

More like this:

• England's mysterious sunken roads

• The ancient network that links Britain

• What did Stonehenge sound like?

The solstice celebrations don't have a written schedule or online agenda for when festivities or the drummers start – the drum beat just begins. It's a place where no technology seems needed at all; the rhythm of the Sun and the drum drives everyone in place.

As the night sets

In the centre of the stone circle, more musicians join in the primal drumbeat, a rhythm that feels connected to the thousands of years of human history here. Some people dance, some people draw; most just tap along as they sit on the grass.

"When you stand bare feet on the ground, listening to the Kings Drummers, it invokes feelings of the past, how the ancestors would have celebrated," says Byatt. "No phone devices, just a collection of people all there for the same reason."

When you stand bare feet on the ground, listening to the Kings Drummers, it invokes feelings of the past, how the ancestors would have celebrated - Donna Byatt

As the Sun finally sets – this year at 21:50 on 20 June – modern-day Druids and Pagan practitioners dance and act out the metaphorical war between the darkness and the light, complete with epic live music and flames. At the end of the performance the revelry continues, with dancing and drumming continuing into the early hours of the morning.

By dawn, the crowd has thinned – but there's no rush to leave for those who want to stay. "People want to feel connected to something other than their phones and laptops, and Avebury gives that to them," says Byatt. "It's open 24/7."

Minor planet keywords developed by Philip Sedgwick, used with permission http://philipsedgwick.com/

Centaur, TNO & Asteroid Aspectarian http://serennu.com/astrology/aspectarians.php

[gokitetour]

The Top 9 Places to Visit in Kenya for an Adventurous Retreat

With its distinctly diverse panorama and various landscapes, Kenya remains a prime destination for those looking for a holiday destination. From the sun-sopping wet grasslands of the Maasai Mara to the pristine beaches of the Indian Ocean, this East African gem gives lots of thrilling experiences. In this manual, we reveal nine locations in Kenya that promise an adventurous getaway. Each area is uniquely interesting, with sports for adrenaline seekers and nature lovers alike.

From adventurous safaris and intense mountain treks to immersive cultural events and cruises, these destinations are perfect for crafting unforgettable memories. Prepare yourself to be awakened by Kenya’s unparalleled beauty and vibrant spirit as we embark on a journey to the country’s most exciting adventures.

Known for its beauty and considerable flora and fauna, Kenya remains a top vacation spot for vacationers searching for an unforgettable getaway. Here are the nine best places to visit for an adventurous experience in Kenya that will leave you with lasting memories.

The Top 9 Places to Visit in Kenya for an Adventurous Retreat

Maasai Mara National Reserve

The Maasai Mara National Reserve is synonymous with the vital African Safari. Known for its great migration, this iconic reserve offers unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities. The adventurous can take a thrill ride to witness the spectacular crossing of the river by lions, tigers, rhinos, wild boars, and elephants. For a different perspective, consider an early morning hot air balloon safari with views of the vast savannah teeming with life below.

Mount Kenya

For those looking for a more challenging adventure, Mount Kenya is the ultimate challenge. Being the second-highest mountain in Africa, it has many hiking trails, with Sirimon and Chogoria being the most popular. The climb is a test of persistence, taking you through loads of ecosystems, from dense forests to alpine meadows and snow. The prize is located at the top of Point Lenana, with spectacular views of the surrounding plains and hills.

Amboseli National Park

 Located at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli National Park is known for its spectacular surroundings and big herds of elephants. Adventurers can discover masses of regions inside the park, together with swamps, forests, and savannahs. Photographers will especially experience taking breath taking elephant pictures with the snow-capped peaks of Kilimanjaro within the history. Guided strolling safaris offer close-up perspectives of the park’s flora and fauna, creating an immersive experience in this unique atmosphere.

Lamu Island

Lamu Island is the perfect mix of adventure and cultural diving. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts a rich history and a vibrant Swahili way of life.

Explore the narrow streets of Lamu by foot or club, as motorized vehicles are rare. Adventure activities include dhow sailing, where you can dive into the calm waters of the islands, as well as a deep-sea fishing trip that gives you the chance to catch marlin sailfish. The island’s annual Lamu Cultural Festival is also a highlight, with traditional dhow racing, dancing, and Swahili food.

Lake Nakuru National Park

 The Nakuru National Park Lakes are a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife lovers. The alkaline lake is known for its huge herds of flamingos, which can take game drives to see elephants, leopards, and rare Rothschild rhinos, creating a stunning pink landscape around a surrounding mountain after the encounter. The parks, including grass and acacia forests, offer many opportunities to explore and photograph wildlife.

Hell’s Gate National Park

Hell’s Gate National Park offers a unique and dynamic adventure unlike any other in Kenya. Known for its spectacular cliffs, valleys, and geothermal springs, it is a playground for hikers and rock climbers. Cycling in the park is a popular activity, allowing would-be adventurers to get up close to elephants, rhinos, and buffalo. The park features natural hot springs and the famous Hell’s Gate Gorge that inspired the landscapes in Disney’s “The Lion King.”.

Tsavo National Park

 Divided into east and west, Tsavo National Park is one of the largest national parks in the world. It offers a tropical and beyond-safar safari experience. Tsavo East is known for its huge herds of elephants and the spectacular Yatta Plain. Tsavo West has lush landscapes, including Mjima Springs, where you can watch hippos underwater. Adventurers can explore the park’s wide trails in the area, with opportunities for walking, birding, and encountering a diverse population of wildlife in a less crowded environment.

Samburu National Park

 Located in the arid northern region of Kenya, Samburu National Park is a hidden gem for wildlife lovers. The reserve is home to unique species such as Gravy's zebra, webbed giraffe, and Somali ostrich, collectively known as the "Samburu Special Five." Adventurers can learn about the unique flora and fauna of the area and participate in game drives with nature on a guided walk. The rolling terrain of the reserve and the Iwaso Ng’iro River provide a fascinating backdrop for a true wilderness experience.

Diyani Beach

 For those seeking a more in-depth seashore journey, Diyani Beach offers a mixture of water sports activities and relaxation. These pristine Indian Ocean beaches are ideal for kite surfing, snorkelling, and scuba diving. The coral reefs are teeming with marine life, providing divers with a vibrant underwater panorama.

Adventure enthusiasts can also enjoy deep-sea fishing, jet skiing, and skydiving, making Witch Beach the perfect destination for thrill seekers and seaside relaxers.

Conclusion

A search of the top nine holiday destinations in Kenya reveals the country's diversity and breath taking beauty, from spectacular wildlife treks in the Maasai Mara and Amboseli to Hell's Gate and Mount In the rugged landscapes of Kenya, each location offers unique experiences that cater to thrill seekers and nature enthusiasts alike, guaranteed. By choosing a Kenya tour Package, travellers can easily experience the best of these stunning destinations with skill fully planned itineraries that maximize adventure and sightseeing.

Also read : Tanzania tour Package

[ramtracking]

Coming up: Great Falls Easter Egg Hunt [ March 30 ]

Coming up: Great Falls Easter Egg Hunt [News Summary] he event will feature eggs filled with candy, coins, and special prizes – and of course the Easter Bunny will be making a guest appearance. Submitted by the Orcas Island Lions Club. The Orcas Island Lions Club is happy to announce that the Annual Easter Egg Hunt will be held on… The city’s annual Easter Egg Hunt is set for 11 a.m. March 30 in…

[oldsalempost-blog]

The Old Salem Post

Our  Local Tamassee-Salem SC Area News each Monday except holidays                                          Contact: theoldsalempost@gmail.com                              Distributed to local businesses, town hall, library.                           

Volume 7 Issue 5                                   Week of January 8, 2024                https://www.tumblr.com/settings/blog/oldsalempost-blog                                                         Lynne Martin Publishing

EDITOR:  People are seeking our beautiful upstate for many reasons. One main reason is to get away from development disasters created where they came from.  They want a piece of land with freedom, clean air, and space away from crowds and traffic.  Housing developments are now becoming overdevelopment and disgusting, with house on house and stripped land where once were pastures or beautiful shade trees. We are sacrificing our way of  life when we do not speak out against this overdevelopment.  Some lake properties are disgusting with house on house.  One of our local golf courses looks like a crowded housing development rather than a golf course community.  If you enjoy our way of life, you need to be active to save what is left of it. A fitting quote I overheard this week is from a stranger: “I think normal people are sick of where modern society is going.” LRMartin

TOWN of SALEM:  * Visit the Downtown Market every Sat 8am-12pm. *   Next Town Council Meeting Jan. 16th  at 5pm.  We will be  swearing in Leigh Roach, new member on Town Council.

SALEM LIBRARY:  January is National Blood Donor Month. Please be aware that we will be hosting blood drives at each of our Oconee County Public Library locations in January, per the following schedule:     Monday     1/8/24        10:00a-2:00p      Salem                  Tuesday    1/16/24      10:00a-2:00p      Walhalla                    Monday     1/22/24      10:00a-2:00p      Seneca                 Monday     1/29/24      10:00a-2:00p      Westminster           Please give, if you are able.    Sign up for an appointment.  You may call the Blood Connection  864-751-1168.

JOCASSEE VALLEY BREWING COMPANY,(JVBC) & COFFEE SHOP* 13412 N Hwy 11 Open Wed–Sat 9am-9pm and Sunday 2pm-7pm. Events this week:  Wed: Singer/Songwriter night hosted by Rick Malec 6:30pm. Thurs: Old Time Jam at 6:30pm.  Fri: Food: Blue Ridge Grill Music: Luke Deuce at 6:30pm  Sat–Food:  Simple Sammies  Music:  Cannon & Cohen Trio at 6:30pm          

                                                                                                                     ASHTON RECALLS:  by Ashton  

SALEM YOUTH WON 1953 CORN-GROWING CONTEST (The following story was in the December 30, 1953 issue of the Keowee Courier) - Coburn Lusk of Salem High school was the 1953 winner of the annual corn-growing contest sponsored jointly by the Rotary and Lions Clubs of Walhalla for members of the Future Farmer chapters at Salem, Tamassee and Walhalla High schools. . .The winner is determined by who grows the most bushels of corn on one acre. . .Young Lusk's winning total was 90 bushels. . .The second-place winner was James Crenshaw of Walhalla with 74 bushels, and third place went to Tim Duncan of Tamassee with 70 bushels. . .The Rotary and Lions clubs have sponsored the contest for a number of years, donating the prize money which is awarded on the basis of $15 to the first-place winner, $10 to the second-place winner and $5 to the third-place winner. They also award each school's Future Farmer chapter $10. . .This year's prize money was presented at an awards banquet by J.H. Murphree, agriculture teacher at Tamassee High school. . .In addition to the three overall winners, the second-place winner at each school was also recognized and presented a certificate. They were Gerald Townes of Salem, 67 bushels; Charles Chalmers of Tamassee, 63 bushels; and Harold Bryson of Walhalla, 42 bushels

Jottings from Miz Jeannie  by Jeannie Barnwell                     "A well-lived Life is reflected in the beautiful things that we leave behind."  We know that when we depart Planet Earth that "we can't take it with us"-- the money in savings, our cars, our houses, our collected plunder.  However, some of our  unique creations may live on after we are gone.  They reflect who we were, and we can hope that they will be cherished and passed down to our grandchildren's grandchildren.  These items will whisper: "Hey! I was here. I delighted in creating this."    What is something beautiful that you will leave when it is your time to embark on the next stage of the great adventure?  "A quilt, a story, a well-raised child? These are the things worth collecting." Inspired by "The Collector" by Amy Silvers:  Country Woman Magazine:  Aug 2021   I love you Oconee. Miz Jeannie  

** I hope we leave our families the passion to work hard to have something, and work hard to save it.  LRM **       

EAGLES NEST ART CENTER

2024 UPCOMING EVENTS   January, 20th, 7pm Oconee Mountain Opry.  We hope you join us for Roots music on tap with a dose of cornball comedy as Dave Donor brings a set of Cajun music, Singer Songwriter Laura Jones plays some original tunes and Ageless Acoustic brings a mix of timeless hits from the sixties and beyond. The Eagle Opry Players will present old fashioned comedy skits between the rotating sets. This is our own hometown variety show of local and regional artists like no other. Doors open at 6 show at 7pm. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online at eaglesnestartcenter.org or at the door the day of the show.      Feb 3rd, 1pm-4pm   Women Encouraging Women. 2nd annual Afternoon Retreat for women to refresh and encourage your faith.                                            Feb.  10, 7pm  Trial by Fire,  A Journey Tribute,   $20 advance tickets  $25 day of  show                                                           March 2nd, 2pm-5pm Second Annual Alumni Gathering 2pm-5pm 

March 16th, 7pm   Oconee Mountain Opry. $10

ENAC will host the House of Raeford Farms Chicken Sale: You must order online in order to pick up your fresh chicken on Saturday, March 2nd between 9am and 12pm.  Type in House of Raeford Farms, Greenville, SC and scroll down to the preorder section.                                                                                                                                *Visit our website at Eaglesnestartcenter.org for more 2024 events and ticket information.                                                               

 Name a seat at ENAC!  $200 Single Name.  $250 for couples or families.  Please call Darlene at  864 710-8758.

The Eagles Nest Treasure Store be open every Saturday morning. 9am-12pm.  We are accepting donations.  For more information on sponsorships, events, volunteering, donations, or rentals call 864-280-1258                                                                  

CHURCHNEWS                                                                                                 Bethel Presbyterian Church (PCUSA), 580 Bethel Church Rd Walhalla, 29691, worships at 10:30 a.m. . Like us on Facebook:  Bethelpresbyterianchurchwalhalla  Love to sing?  Love to be in charge? Come lead! All worshipers are welcome.                                                                                 Boones Creek Baptist Church, 264 Boones Creek Road, Salem invites you to join us for regular worship service on Sunday morning with Sunday School at 10am and followed by worship at 11am.                                                        

Salem Methodist Church: 520 Church Street, Salem.  9am for breakfast, 9:30am for Sunday School, and 10:30am for Worship.  You may tune in to our live service on Facebook or view it later on our website.

11th Annual BELLFEST 2024:   FRIENDS OF LAKE JOCASSEE will host BellFest 2024 at Devils Fork State Park on Saturday, March 16 from 10am-3pm.  Celebrate the rare Oconee Bell, Shortia galacifolia, local harbinger of spring.  Learn about its interesting place in history and view it blooming in the park.   Interpretive Bell Trail walks* Oconee Bell story presentation* Music each hour* Exhibits* Local vendors* Food Trucks* Kid and Family activities* Silent Auction to benefit FOJ * Park entry fees apply $8 Adult, $5 SC Senior, $4 Children age 6–15, % and under free.  Friends of Jocassee's goal is to preserve, protect and promote natural and cultural resources of the Jocassee area and the recreational opportunities it provides.  Find us www.friendsof jocassee.org  or email us at friendsofjocassee@gmail.com

Newry General Store:  Visit the Newry General Store & Cafe for breakfast, lunch or just coffee. It is about a 20 minute drive from Salem toward Seneca on highway 130.  Take a left after crossing the Newry dam.  Then another left at the stop sign will take you straight to it, as you drive through the row of mill houses.  It is located beside the Newry Post Office, and just up from the beautiful apartments renovated from the old Newry mill .  It is a sweet stop off specialty breads, groceries, produce or a delicious dessert. Three specialty beers are on tap.  You will be glad to find this little treasure that has not been discovered yet. A special event space is available to rent for your next party or celebration. LRM

Stay well! Love one another! LRM