Congratulations to Chapin native Charli Wessinger who won the election for Lexington County Council District 6.

Local elections are where you can make your voice heard at the polls.

WE CELEBRATE our patriotism at The Lake Murray fireworks on Saturday, July 4, beginning at dusk, 9:15 from Spence and Dreher Islands. They are best viewed by boat or on Dreher Island. To hear the music, tune into WCOS 97.5 to hear the synchronized music show.

DO YOU REMEMBER walking barefoot outside on grass as a child? Last week I was at the library and spotted the soft, squishy grass around the building. I threw off my shoes and paced the entire grounds barefoot joyously for 20 minutes. I was transported back to my happy 4-year-old self, chasing my beagle in the front yard.

My home is the site of an old farm with rocks, broken glass, sand spurs, and random spots of “chicken fertilizer” from the free-range chickens. Those 20 minutes were like heaven to my soul.

Later that night, I sat with fresh wonder and amazement at the lightning bug show in my backyard. The simplicity of nature’s pleasures is something money cannot buy.

KELSEY PORTH, 4-year-old daughter Ella and baby brother Emmitt enjoy playing outside and going on long walks and playing in their yard in Chapin.

SALUDA SHOALS splash pad is open on Saturday 10-6 and Saturday and Sunday noon-5 for some cool fun on hot days.

Historic Columbia will reopen its gardens at the Robert Mills House, Hampton-Preston Mansion and Seibels House Tuesday, June 16. Enjoy some simple nature fun this week and awaken the child inside you.