Criminal Defense Lawyer in Newberry, SC

NEWBERRY, S.C. (WIS) - The small city of Newberry, about 45 miles northwest of Columbia, is celebrating the holidays with events that often land it on lists of the best small towns in America for Christmas festivities.

The historic Newberry Opera House, originally built in 1881, hosts shows throughout the Christmas season. The intimate venue has only 18 steps from the stage to the farthest seat in the house.

Artificial snow machines create a blanket of freshly fallen snow at Memorial Park, guaranteeing a white Christmas in Newberry.

“All about tradition and community. So it pulls everybody together,” said Christy Blaney, City of Newberry Events Manager.

Banners and bells lead visitors into the downtown district. A special mailbox for letters to Santa sits in the park.

“So magical. It really just comes to life and creates this amazing winter wonderland. It is like out of a Hallmark movie is what we like to say,” Blaney said.

The North Pole Lights events begin on Thanksgiving and deliver activities for families. Food trucks, face-painting and a projector show on the opera house walls are part of the festivities.

Vanessa Jackson, who lives in Newberry, said the celebration never loses its charm.

“We’re so lucky to have this in such a small town. One day, I hope my kids look back at all of these wonderful memories that we could just go down the street to experience rather than having to drive to a big city to get all the bells and whistles,” Jackson said.

The historic opera house enhances holiday offerings throughout the season with family shows, romantic Christmas productions, movies and ballet performances.

“We have family shows. We have more romantic Christmas shows. We show movies. We just showed Elf. And the Nutcracker Ballet. So anything you want that’s Christmas, we have it probably,” said Sierra Wesson, Newberry Opera House Marketing Manager.

A towering Christmas tree covered in thousands of colorful bulbs serves as the crown jewel of the city’s Christmas decorations. The tree comes from a farm in rural North Carolina.

“You leave feeling the charm, character and true essence of what holiday magic is all about. Want people to walk away and feel that and want to come back,” Blaney said.

Local businesses along Main Street count on holiday revenue. One coffee shop reports that tree-lighting day is their most profitable day of the year.

The final North Pole Lights event is Friday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and will include an appearance from Santa Claus.

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In a world that seems to be moving at an unforgiving pace, it is to come across a town that has stuck to its roots and resisted complete urbanization. Fortunately, South Carolina harbors several such hidden gems, where history comes to life through well-preserved structures and longstanding traditions. Charming tourists with their vibrant culture and trademark Southern charm, these time-honored destinations invite travelers for a surreal journey into the bygone eras of the United States.

From Beaufort to Georgetown, they showcase their enduring commitment to tradition, heritage, and a steadfast sense of community. Whether strolling through cobblestone streets in a historic district or perusing documents in a museum, these charming towns in South Carolina are a vivid window into the past and the true heart and soul of the Palmetto State.

Beaufort

Established in 1711, Beaufort exudes rustic charm with its historic streets and old-world architecture. It hosts a wealth of antique mansions and historical markers that transport guests into its formative years, starting with the John Mark Verdier House. This antebellum mansion stands out for its federal-style architecture dating back to the early 1800s and houses several period furnishings. A walking tour of the Reconstruction Era National Park allows tourists to learn the exciting story of the Reconstruction Era and how it intertwines with the Civil Rights movement.

Meanwhile, the Beaufort History Museum comprehensively highlights the region's history and culture. Housed in a restored 18th-century arsenal, it displays curious artifacts and memorabilia from the past.

Newberry

The Travel Channel ranked Newberry among the "Most Charming Small Towns in America" partly because of its rich historical heritage. This quaint community boasts a site-rich historic district laden with antique buildings. Strolling through the area reveals gems such as the Newberry Opera House. Initially constructed in 1882 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it continues entertaining guests with live concerts. Meanwhile, the Newberry Museum provides a broader look into the town's history by showcasing exhibits about its military, arts, and entertainment.

The Old Newberry County Courthouse is another notable feature in the downtown area. Designed by Jacob Graves and constructed in 1852, it sports a conspicuous Greek Revival architectural style and would look perfect on a postcard.

Camden

One of the oldest inland towns in South Carolina, Camden oozes Revolutionary War lore. It promises travelers an immersive historical experience at the Revolutionary War Visitor Center. Browsing the facility's exhibits familiarizes newcomers with South Carolina's pivotal role during the infamous conflict. However, the experience is more tangible when touring the Historic Camden Revolutionary War Site, an open-air history museum with several historic homes, fortifications, a blacksmith forge, and more.

Finally, remember to stop by the Camden Archives and Museum. The venue focuses on the general history of Camden, shedding light on its chronology from the Native American occupation to the Revolutionary War era.

Georgetown

An hour south of Myrtle Beach, southern charm meets historical heritage in this quaint borough of Georgetown County. Georgetown is known for its cluster of museums and historic sites. For starters, the South Carolina Maritime Museum has an impressive collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs about the region's seafaring heritage. Meanwhile, the Georgetown County Museum takes guests down three centuries of history and culture, with exhibits from the 18th century.

Beyond its museums, Georgetown's old-world mansions provide a vivid window into the bygone eras. At the Kaminski House Museum, you can browse antiques and furnishings from the 1700s century in a lovely Georgian mansion. The experience is just as immersive at the Hopsewee Plantation, built in 1735.

Walterboro

Walterboro's history dates back to the 1780s when it was established. It served as a vital stop for journeymen between Charleston and Savannah. This captivating heritage is preserved in its well-maintained historic streets. The antique architecture, such as the Greek Revival design on the Colleton County Courthouse, reminds tourists of the early days.

Meanwhile, the Bedon-Lucas House Museum allows you to touch and feel the 1800s in Richard Bedon's historic home. Don't forget to check out the Tuskegee Airmen Memorial, which honors the gallant actions of the young African American airmen from World War 2.

Abbeville

Popularly known as the "Birthplace and Deathbed of the Confederacy," Abbeville played a momentous role in the Civil War. This becomes pretty clear when discovering its downtown district, which stands out for a conspicuous display of architecture, highlighted by the Trinity Episcopal Church. Listed on the National Register, the church delights with stained glass windows from the 1800s. You can uncover exciting Civil War heritage at the Burt-Stark Mansion, an architectural masterpiece and site of the final "Council of War" by President Jefferson Davis.

Besides absorbing Abbeville's history, sample its arts and culture landscape at the Abbeville Opera House. The historic event venue was opened at the turn of the century and continues to host concerts, comedy shows, and other performances.

Walhalla

Walhalla's pedestrian-friendly Main Street features family-run shops and eateries. The main attraction for history enthusiasts is the cluster of museums, historic churches, and vintage structures throughout its historic district. Notably, the Museum of the Cherokee in South Carolina showcases Cherokee Nation heritage within the state, displaying maps, books, vintage clothing, crafts, and artifacts. Additionally, the Oconee Military Museum shares compelling stories about local heroes and their sacrifices.

Lastly, you can wind up the itinerary with a tour of the Oconee Station State Historic Site. The area preserves old buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, including the Williams Richards House.

Edgefield

Edgefield is renowned as the former residence of ten South Carolina governors. Founded over 200 years ago, it preserves many of its original features. The historic Courthouse Square, home to buildings like the Edgefield County Courthouse built in 1839, is a highlight. The Oakley Park Museum provides additional insights into Edgefield's past, showcasing a remarkable collection of Civil War and Reconstruction-era artifacts such as furniture, artwork, and relics.

Head to the Edgefield County Historical Society for a broader look into the region's history. In addition to displaying exhibits chronicling the genealogy of its people, the venue organizes tours of local historic sites and buildings for visitors.

Bluffton

Bluffton, a charming coastal town in southern Beaufort County, is separated from Hilton Head Island by the Intracoastal Waterway. Its history is vividly showcased in Old Town Bluffton, a well-preserved, walkable historic district filled with shops, galleries, restaurants, and various historical markers. Walking along this corridor offers numerous historical sites of interest, including the Church of the Cross, built before the Civil War and listed on the National Register in 1975.

Also, the Heyward House Museum takes you back to the 19th century with its unique early Carolina Farmhouse style. Before leaving the town, try to meet the locals personally and learn about their culture by shopping at the Bluffton Farmers Market.

Aiken

Aiken attracts tourists with its Southern charm, equestrian heritage, and picturesque landscapes. History lovers can explore a wealth of antique treasures, starting at the Aiken County Historical Museum, which offers a timeline of the town and region—from Native American origins to today. Additionally, the Savannah River Site Museum highlights the area's technological and scientific role during the Cold War.

Aiken has a rich horseracing culture, which the Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame preserves and interprets. The monument pays tribute to horses trained in Aiken for flat and steeplechase racing.

Final Thought

If you plan to embark on an immersive historical encounter on your next trip to the Palmetto State, these rustic towns in South Carolina should be at the top of your priorities. Steeped in rich heritage and teeming with well-preserved sites and landmarks, they provide a unique look into the state's earlier years. From the old architecture in Abbeville to the colorful museums in Aiken, an invigorating experience awaits in these hidden gems of the South.

SC State claims HBCU National Championship with 4 OT win over Prairie View

Story courtesy of SC State:

South Carolina State capped a thrilling championship performance with a dramatic 40-38 victory over Prairie View A&M in four overtimes to win the 10th annual Cricket Celebration Bowl on Saturday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, securing the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference’s (MEAC) seventh all-time victory in the event.

Quarterback Ryan Stubblefield connected with Jordan Smith on the decisive two-point conversion in the fourth overtime, and the Bulldogs’ defense sealed the win when Prairie View’s final attempt fell incomplete, igniting a celebration for the MEAC champions.

After both teams traded field goals in the first overtime, the Bulldogs gained momentum in the second extra period when Cornelius Davis intercepted a Stubblefield pass on Prairie View’s opening possession. The Panthers had a chance to end the game moments later, but a missed 31-yard field goal kept South Carolina State alive. Neither team converted during the two-point attempt-only third overtime, setting the stage for the dramatic finish.

South Carolina State erased a 21-point halftime deficit with an explosive third quarter, scoring three touchdowns on drives of fewer than 50 yards to pull even and force overtime.

Stubblefield entered the game late in the second quarter and delivered a standout performance, throwing for 234 yards and two touchdowns. His favorite target, Smith, accounted for all three Bulldog touchdowns, two receiving and one rushing, and caught the game-winning two-point conversion. Smith finished with nine receptions for 152 yards.

Prairie View A&M quarterback Cameron Peters threw for 412 yards and four touchdown, while Andre Dennis recorded 131 receiving yards and a touchdown in the Panthers’ historic season.

The Bulldogs finished the season 10-3 and claimed their second Celebration Bowl title, making their third appearance in the game over the past five years. With the victory, the MEAC extended its all-time Celebration Bowl advantage to 7-3.

Newberry falls at frigid Ferris State 49-17 in D2 Semi-Final

Story courtesy of Newberry

The Newberry College Wolves (12-2) were on the cusp of another spectacular rally late in the first half, but things did not go their way as they eventually fell to defending national champion and #1 seed Ferris State (15-0) 49-17 in sub-freezing temperatures in Big Rapids, Mich.

Quarterback Reed Charpia threw for 348 yards and a touchdown, Will Young had three catches for a career-high 96 yards and a score, Jonah Norris had six grabs for 69 yards, De’Andre Coleman added five grabs for 68 yards and Rico Dorsey Jr. added four passes for 64 yards.

Mikey Blandin led the Wolves’ defense with nine total tackles, Santory Jones had six tackles and KyHeim Bethea and Jaden Kinard each added five stops. Kinard and Elijah Vereen each had a fumble recovery.

The temperature at kickoff was 10 degrees with a wind chill of -10 with snow and ice covering part of the field.

Ferris State jumped out to a 21-0 in the first quarter, before the Wolves responded to score 17 consecutive points.

Charpia connected with Young on a pass over the middle that he turned into a spectacular 61-yard touchdown to the cut the advantage of 21-7 with 1:22 left in the first quarter.

The Wolves defense responded by forcing an apparent three and out and then stopped the Bulldogs on a fake punt attempt to take over at the Ferris State 49-yard line.

Newberry’s offense took advantage and eight plays later; backup quarterback Coleman Gray scored from two yards to cut the deficit to 21-14.

The Newberry defense stepped up again, forcing a turnover when Jhyree Brigman forced a fumble that was recovered by Kinard at the Wolves 45-yard line.

The Wolves marched down to the Bulldog 22-yard line but had to settle for a Burke Nettles 39-yard field goal into a swirling wind to crawl within 21-17 with 7:40 left in the half.

The momentum was still in favor of Newberry as the defense shutdown the Ferris State offense and a shanked punt only travelling 22 yards gave the Wolves offense the ball on the Bulldog 43-yard line.

A 22-yard pass completion from Charpia to Coleman gave the Wolves first down at the Bulldog 20-yard line, but an interception stopped the rally with 4:09 remaining in the half.

Ferris State took full advantage, driving for a touchdown, then forcing a Newberry fumble on its own one-yard line that turned into another touchdown and Bulldogs led 35-17 at the half.

Ferris State shut out the Wolves offense in the second half to advance to their third consecutive national championship game.

Newberry completed its most successful season in school history at 12-2 and earned a regional championship and a spot in the national semifinals.