The in-progress Lexington 2 Performing Arts Center hit a construction milestone last week.

On March 29, the project held its topping out ceremony, which celebrates “the milestone of completing the structure of the building,” per a release from Lexington County School District 2.

The center, under construction in Springdale, is set to open early next year.

It will be “a state-of-the-art venue that will offer a space for performances, special events, and district-wide occasions,” the release states.

“It will include a two-level balcony with seating for roughly 1,550, with upgraded systems in stage lighting and sound, along with dressing rooms, set storage and backstage areas to support opportunities in dance, music, theater, and more. The center’s primary mission is its use by district students, schools and employees. There will be additional opportunities for professional development, statewide conferences, conventions, and student competitions, as well as community and cultural events, as space is available.”

District 5 employees win statewide honors

A pair of employees at another local school district won statewide honors last week.

Lexington-Richland School District 5 Coordinator of Instructional Technology Carol Lansford was named the Administrator of the Year by the S.C. Association of School Librarians.

Lunsford, who has worked in education for 19 years, served as principal of Harbison West Elementary from 2014 to 2017 before taking on his current role with the district.

“Carol Lunsford is so deserving of this award, and I know it is given with love and appreciation from the members of SCASL,” District 5’s Chief of Academics and Administration Anna Miller is quoted in a release. “No one works harder day-in and day-out to support our librarians and libraries than Carol. Especially during the last few years, Carol has been an encourager, supporter, and advocate for school libraries, and she is a great leader who advances our instructional technology efforts in School District 5.”

Laurie Taylor, a teacher at Chapin High School was named the 2023 S.C. Academy of Science Teacher of the Year.

The instructor, who has worked 19 of his 22 years in education at Chapin High, teaches chemistry. He received a $1,000 award, a plaque and recognition at the academy’s annual meeting.

“The Eagle Family is incredibly proud of the work Dr. Taylor puts into her instruction each and every day,” Chapin High Principal Michael Ames is quoted in a release. “Her commitment to instruction and love for her students is second to none and is beyond deserving of this recognition!”

Gibson Pond is back open for fishing

A Lexington amenity that went away for a while has added another activity for people to enjoy.

Gibson Pond, the namesake of the park the town reopened in 2021 following extensive renovations after the historic flooding of 2015, has opened for fishing for the first time since it welcomed back visitors.

The park had been closed to fishing since reopening in August 2021.

The park also features multiple covered picnic shelters, a roughly half-mile walking trail and a walkway across the pond dam.

The pond was stocked with fish about a year and a half ago, the town posted to Facebook.

Lexington banker appointed to state board

An executive banker at First Reliance Bank in Lexington was recently appointed to a statewide board.

Per a release, Gov. Henry McMaster appointed Brent Mackie to serve as a member of the nine-member S.C. Housing Board of Commissioners.

The board is “comprised of individuals with diverse experience in housing, finance, business and community service, establishes policy for the agency and oversees its operation,” a release states. “Both DHEC and the Governor’s Office have statutory seats on the Board. Other members are appointed by the Governor, with the advice and consent of the South Carolina Senate, for four-year terms.”