Around ChApin & irmo

Iam a rock collector. I pick up rocks from the places I have traveled. My rock collection is not pretty, but full of memories of going places with family and loved ones. I even have handmade bricks from 1813 of the midlands red clay.

Rock lovers will love Rock Day at the State Museum on June 8, 10-4 pm. This is a day to learn about archeology, minerals, and geology. Special guests from the Columbia Gem and Mineral Society and the USC Geology Department will be on hand to lanswer questions. The State Museum also has a digital dome planetarium to enjoy.

Fresh homegrown vegetables, grass-fed beef, fresh eggs and more can be found at the Chapin’s Famer’s Market the first Saturday in June. For more information, contact Nicholle Burroughs at communications@chapinsc.com .

We have the Fireflies Baseball team and the fireflies at Congaree Park. There are over 2,000 species worldwide. However, there are only three species of synchronous flashing fireflies in North America. Every year, Congaree National Park hosts an event that highlights the synchronous fireflies in our area. The synchronizing firefly began on May 13, 8:30-10 pm and will last until mid-June. These fireflies put on a dazzling show of synchronous flashing lights during their search for a mate. There will be a designated Fireflies Trail at Congaree Park which will give access to prime viewing areas. Visit www.nps.gov/cong/fireflies.htm for info or call 803-776-4396.

The night skies are beautiful! As a child, my sister and I would lie on the car hood and look at the stars. You can explore solar astronomy with Larry Metcalf, NASA Solar System Ambassador, at the Irmo Library, June 1, 9-12. Telescopes will be provided to safely view the sun, weather permitting. For information, call (803) 798-7880, ext. 111. You can visit www.midlandsastromonyclub.org and meet with others who love galaxies, moons, and stars!