Memorial Day, May 25, was the day we remember our fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives for our freedom. American flags flew at half-mast to honor these dedicated men and women.

Due to the corona virus, some Memorial

Day events were cancelled or recognition of this day was made smaller. Being held outside, the annual Pelion Ruritan Veterans Memorial Service took place on Memorial Day. This year it was dedicated to the late Benny Collings who helped to make this memorial a reality. Also, the service was dedicated to the late Charles Haggard, one of the original Ruritan members.

Participating in the patriotic program were Band Director, Otto Hage, Rev. Jerry Branham, President Kay Collings, Josh Quattlebaum, Mayor Frank Shumpert, Col. Michael Haggard, Rep. Kit Spires, Soldiers of Faith, Ed Wilkes and Lexington County Sheriff’s Department Honor Guard. Serving on the committee were Kay Collings, Beverly Jackson, Jean Haggard, Sam Jackson and Steve Neese. More on this in Kay Collings’ Around Pelion & Fairview on this page.

Memorial Day is considered the official opening of the summer season. This year vacations could be different with families choosing to remain closer to home.

Many SC state parks opened on May 1. Increased park visitation has resulted in a capacity limit, so check availability. This would be a chance for your family to explore and enjoy nature and the outdoors.

closer to home is our top 10 ranked Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens. The park opened to the general public Saturday, May 23, with online timed ticket reservations to help limit attendance. In the 1st of 3 re-opening phases, the aquarium-reptile complex, birdhouse, carousel, farm experience, giraffe feeding and kids’ train are open. More exhibits will open when it is safe.

Hand washing stations and hand sanitizer dispensers have been installed. Employees must wear masks. Members and guests are encouraged but not required to.

For additional information on re-opening, please visit Riverbanks.org

Our State Museum is holding a Special Needs Day, hosted by Palmetto Civitan Club, Sunday, June 7 at noon.

AAA cancelled its annual Memorial Day travel forecast this year for the first time in 20 years. There is hope though, as restrictions are lifted, last minute trips could be possible with increased safety.

We must be responsible and practice guidance for wearing masks and social distancing. Let’s have a safe summer and take advantage of opportunities available in present conditions. You might discover new found fun!

Happy Birthday to Shannon Harman, Rose Wilkins, Mark Romano, Johnny Clemens, Irene Wehle, Cynthia Reed, Tim Martin, Seth Dunnagan, Kelly Holliday, Debbie Summers, Beulah Glover, Tinsley Goodman, Kathryn Graham, Marie Davis, Connie Smith, Shawn Torbett, Carsyn Antley, Peyton Antley, Rita Rodgers, Karen Thouvenot, Connor Rouillard, Hailey Smith, Alaina Wenzel, Stacey Westberry, Clay Crawford, Evan Mann, Ginger Taylor.