Archive for October 2021

WHAT: Halloween weekend at Denver Downs Farm in Anderson, which is hosting their 20^th annual Fall Festival, is going all out for the fun holiday with kid, baby, adult, and dog costume contests, Candy Cannon, live music, and pig races. Costumes are welcome! Sunday is also Dog Day at the Maze. Full schedule is below.

 

WHEN: Friday, October 29th – Sunday, October 31, 2021. Denver Downs will also be open on Monday and Tuesday, November 1nd and 2^nd for Upstate Schools’ Fall Break.

 

WHERE: Denver Downs Farm, Anderson, SC

 

ABOUT COSTUME CONTESTS: Adults, kids, and babies are invited to enter the Halloween Costume Contest on Saturday. Baby costume contest is at 11am and the children’s costume contest kicks off at 5:30 pm. The adult contest is at 9pm. Prizes will be awarded. The dog costume contest happens on Sunday.

 

FULL SCHEDULE:

 

FRIDAY

Festival Open 10am-10pm

6pm Pig Race and Candy Cannon

7pm-9pm Chris Stokes on Main Stage

SATURDAY

Festival Open 10am-10pm

11:00 AM  BABY Costume Contest

1:00 PM  Pig Races and Candy Cannon

3:00 PM   Pig Races and Candy Cannon

5:00 PM   Pig Races and Candy Cannon

5:30 PM  Children’s Costume Contest  (Age 12 and under in costume

7:00 PM   Kyle Dills Band – Main Stage

9:00 PM   Adult Costume Contest

 

SUNDAY

Festival Open 1pm-6pm

Dog Day at the Maze

2:00 PM   Spencer Rush on Main Stage

2:00 PM   Pig Races and Candy Cannon

4:00 PM   Pig Races and Candy Cannon

4:30 PM   Dog Costume Contest

 

 

MONDAY AND TUESDAY 

Open 10am-5pm For Area Schools’ Fall Break

 

VISUALS: Please find visuals for media use on the Denver Downs website here.

 

CONTACT: Catherine Garrison Davis, 843-297-0140, catherine@denverdownsfarm.com

 

As part of the Natives and Immigrants exhibit now on display at the historic Belton train depot, a special presentation is planned for Thursday, Nov. 11.

“The public is cordially invited to attend a free entertaining and informational talk about the Cherokee Trail,” said BAMA educational coordinator Alison Darby.

Renowned historian Dennis Chastain, who has conducted extensive research on the subject of the Cherokee Trail, will present a slideshow of historic waypoints along the nearly 300 mile long Indian trading path that once ran diagonally across South Carolina from Earle’s Ford on the Chattooga River in northern Oconee County to Kings Street in Charleston.

From the founding of the South Carolina Colony in 1670 on the banks of the Ashley River to the Revolutionary War era, the Cherokee Path functioned as a conduit of communication and commerce between the colonial government in Charles Town and the powerful Cherokees of the Carolinas and eastern Tennessee.

Chastain said, “For at least a hundred years, the ancient Cherokee Trading Path was like I-26, the Internet and Facebook, all wrapped up in one.”

During the Cherokee War of 1761-1762 and the scorch and burn campaign of Andrew Williamson during the Revolutionary War, thousands of military troops marched up and down the old Cherokee Path determining the future of not only the South Carolina Colony but also of the nation itself.

“If the Cherokees had allied with the French instead of the British,” Chastain says, “we would all be having croissants for breakfast instead of grits.”

The slideshow will feature the lore and legends of important points along the historic footpath, places like Fort Prince George and the town of Six Mile in Pickens County, the town of Pendleton in Anderson County, Due West in Abbeville County, and right on down the line toward Charleston: Saluda, Lexington, Cayce, St. Matthews, Santee, Moncks Corner, Goose Creek, and of course the colonial era city of Charles Town on the Cooper River side of the peninsula.

Recent research along paths and roadways, fields and creeks in Anderson County will also be featured in the presentation.

“If anyone is interested in Native Americans and the early colonists and being entertained while learning a little bit of history, you should come hear Mr. Chastain’s presentation,” said BAMA Executive Director Abigail Burden.

The presentation will begin at 7 PM, and is free to the public.

Guests are also encouraged to view the exhibit on display, which features 15,000 year old stone implements, a buckskin dress, ritual masks, photographs and portraits, basketry and pottery by renowned Native American crafters, silver pieces and  minted items from the Carolina colony, trade industry items, furniture and everyday cultural items of the settlers.

The exhibit and activities are sponsored by the WebbCraft Family Foundation and the City of Belton HTAX.  The exhibit will be on display until December 11, 2021.

The Belton Area Museum Association is a place where people of all ages, backgrounds, and ethnicities can learn about and experience our area’s history and culture.  Museum admission is free.

 

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More than $100 million investment will create 500 new jobs

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Arthrex, an orthopedic technology innovator, today announced plans to expand operations in Anderson County. The more than $100 million investment will create 500 new jobs.

Founded in 1981, Arthrex is a global leader in orthopedic surgical device design, research, manufacturing and medical education. The company develops and releases more than 1,000 innovative products and surgical procedures each year to advance minimally invasive orthopedics worldwide.

Located at 130 Arthrex Drive in Pendleton, Arthrex’s expansion will include adding a second manufacturing facility and an Electron-beam (E-beam) and X-ray sterilizations facility.

The expansion is expected to be completed by mid-2023. Individuals interested in joining the Arthrex team should visit the company’s careers webpage.

QUOTES

“This investment will help Arthrex better support the growth and development of new and innovative products that help surgeons treat their patients better. Arthrex has been committed to manufacturing quality products in the United States, and this represents that continued commitment.” -Arthrex Vice President of Manufacturing Andy Owen

“I congratulate Arthrex on this more than $100 million investment in our state. The 500 new jobs this expansion is generating will make a big difference in Anderson County, and we look forward to watching this great company continue to thrive here for years to come.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“Arthrex is on the cutting edge of orthopedic innovation and is a leader in our state’s booming life sciences sector. Today’s announcement by Arthrex not only proves that South Carolina has the business environment where life sciences companies can succeed, but that we have the talented workforce in place to handle the most innovative jobs. Team S.C. congratulates Arthrex on their continued success.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Our partnership with Arthrex is succeeding beyond anyone’s expectations. They showed a lot of faith in our community when they began their journey with us a few short years ago, and today’s announcement indicates the level of confidence they have in our workforce. These jobs will improve the lives of hundreds of Anderson County families, and I am truly thankful.” -Anderson County Councilman Brett Sanders, District 4

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Arthrex is expanding operations in Anderson County.
• The more than $100 million investment will create 500 new jobs.
• Arthrex is an orthopedic surgical device company.
• Located at 130 Arthrex Drive in Pendleton, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Arthrex team should visit the company’s careers webpage.

About S.C. Department of Commerce
As South Carolina’s leading economic development agency, the Department of Commerce works to recruit new businesses and help existing business grow. S.C. Commerce has recruited world-class companies to South Carolina such as BMW, Boeing, Continental, Giti Tire, LPL Financial Holdings, Mercedes-Benz Vans, Samsung, Toray and Volvo Cars and also supports startups, small and existing business, innovation and rural development initiatives. S.C. Commerce partners with the S.C. Technical College System via readySC to support workforce training and recruiting, and with the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce, which provides worker training and employment opportunities within the state. With a strong international footprint, the Palmetto State has consistently been among the top in the nation for attracting jobs through foreign direct investment on a per capita basis – recognized by multiple economic development publications for its pro-business climate. For more information, visit www.SCcommerce.com.

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The color purple can be seen many places.   In clothing we buy, fruits we eat, and around town.   However the color purple has taken a new mission to Wendy Norcross and her husband Frank Wattunen.   After watching both her parents’ struggles with dementia and Alzheimer’s, Norcross made it a plan to help advocate for the Alzheimer’s Association by putting her passion of paddling to the ultimate test.   Norcross and her husband are on a mission to raise awareness, and funds, for dementia and Alzheimer’s by traveling all 50 states with their purple canoe and airstream called “Violet”

“We are embracing the purple from the Alzheimer’s Association and taking our passion for paddling and hitting the trails! Our hope for this journey is to create new, heartwarming memories while increasing the awareness of this devastating disease and remember the countless people whose lives have been forever altered,” Norcross said.  

Hailing from Minnesota, this is their first trip with the purple canoe to the south.   They started their journey in Tennessee at Center Hill Lake near Sparta, then headed to North Carolina and paddled Tuckertown Reservoir near Badin.

Today, Norcross and Wattunen made a stop at the famed Lake Hartwell.  “We were crossing 85 and knew it was there because it is on the South Carolina Georgia border.  We know Hartwell is big, so we originally were going to go further up into the river.   It was so calm that we decided ‘lets do it’.   Harbor Light Marina was nearby which is where we launched.”      The stop at Hartwell crosses off not only South Carolina but Georgia as well.

Their next stop will be somewhere in Alabama.   The best part of the purple canoe is that it is so mobile with the addition of their 19ft AirStream, appropriately named ‘Violet’.  

You can learn more about the Purple Canoe, their mission, and donate funds at https://thepurplecanoe.com/

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Louisville, KY – October 17, 2021 – Crappie anglers from several states were hosted by Anderson SC Convention and Visitors Bureau to compete on Lake Hartwell. The October 15-16 Classic event was presented by Bass Pro Shops/Cabela’s.

Anglers were vying for a guaranteed payout of $165,000 in cash and prizes, including the $50,000 points race that would crown the 2021 points leaders. The 2021 Classic was the culmination of the trail’s 25^th-anniversary celebration as they complete a quarter-century of providing competitive crappie fishing.   

Competing anglers were met with hot temperatures in the 80’s and mild winds on Friday. The weather cooled down Friday night and Saturday temperatures were in the 70’s with winds blowing 10 to 20 mph from the SE. Recent heavy rains had the water rising quickly. The water was clear but with pockets of stain.

Leading the pack after day one in the Pro Division were Frank Haidusek and Michael Parker with 12.53 pounds. They also had Big Fish on day one with a 2.32-pound slab. Heath Martin and Matt Eskridge were leading in the Amateur Division with 9.81.

A total of 80 boats fished the event, 35 in the Pro Division and 45 in the Amateur Division. A total of $ 167,000 was distributed to the winners.

Pro Division Results
First Place, Big Fish and National Points Champs

Frank Haidusek and Michael Parker held on to their day-one lead to take

the top spot in the 2021 CUSA Classic on Lake Hartwell. Haidusek from North Newton, KS, and Parker from Grain Valley, MO brought a two-day total weight of 22.96 to earn the first-place prize of a Ranger 518 with 150 Mercury, trolling motor, electronics, on board charger, and a Driftmaster Rod Holders package. Their bag included Big Fish of the tournament at 2.32 pounds to add $1,300. They also added the Jenko Bonus of $100. Their total winning package is valued at $52,375.

“We found dirty water in the back of 2 creeks,” reported Haidusek. “We were targeting laydowns, manmade brush, and open water in pockets that ranged from 9 to 15 feet deep.”

Haidusek and Parker used 13.5-foot Warpig HH Rods and Reels to single pole the structure. They used MAD Shankenstein 1/8 oz. Crappie Jigs with 2-inch ProTuff Stryker plastics in black/chartreuse and monkey milk.

“The rain we received before the tournament helped us as it dirtied the water,” said Haidusek. “We fished on the Seneca arm. The key was that we fished clean. We only lost one fish that we got to the top of the water.”

“I want to thank my wife for always supporting me,” continued Haidusek. “For holding down the fort for the 16 years I was gone in the military and now the last 8 years as I travel the road fishing 3 national trails.”

“I want to thank Eric and Leann with HH Rods and Reels,” concluded Haidusek. “Thank you for believing in me and making me a signature rod that has turned out above and beyond anything I could have wanted. Thanks to Dalton from ProTuff Baits for helping me when I transitioned from the military, for providing awesome baits, and for being a great friend. Thank you Jerry from Mad Crappie Jigs and the rest of the crew for supporting each other, the whole BeatDown Outdoors team. Thanks, Rick Wheeler from DR Marine and Fish for wanting to sponsor a crappie guy and providing me with an 8616 DR. And thanks to Jerry from Crappieholic, Anne from the Original Rod Sox, James from Trade Craft Outdoors, Spike-It Outdoors, and Power-Pole.”

Second Place

The runner-up spot went to TC Lloyd from Hartsville, SC, and Mike Huffstedler from Chapin, SC. They teamed up to bring 21.02 pounds to the scales in the two days of fishing. They earned a check for $5000 and an 8-foot Power Pole.

Lloyd and Huffstedler fished the Seneca Arm of Lake Hartwell on Friday in about 30 feet of water. They used Jenko and Pops jigs. The fish moved shallower on Saturday. The team reported most of their fish came from about 9 feet of water on day two. They caught about 50 crappies for the weekend.

Third Place

Local angler Shaun McAbee from Anderson, SC, and Shannon Shuttle from Bostic, NC teamed to weigh the 3^rd place winning bag of 21 pounds even, just .02 pounds behind the 2^nd place team. They earned a check for $4,000 and a Smooth Moves gift card.

The team also placed 2nd in the National Points Championship and finished 2nd place in their regional competition.

McAbee and Shuttle fished in Tugaloo Creek at the Hartwell event. They were targeting their fish with Garmin LiveScope. They were one pole fishing with hair jigs in natural colors. They caught fish in water that ranged from 10 to 40 feet deep over cover. The team culled through about 60 crappies for the weekend competition.        

Fourth Place

Nick Dowda from Batesburg, SC, and Matthew Williams from Leesburg, SC brought 16.77 pounds to the scales to earn the 4^th place check of $3,000 plus Cabela’s gift cards.

Dowda and Williams also fished the Seneca Arm of Hartwell. They were using Garmin LiveScope and one poling over manmade structure. The team used a combination of jigs and minnows. They were fishing water ranging from 10 to 18 feet deep to catch a total of 35 to 40 crappies for the weekend.

Sportsmen of the Year

Pro Division anglers Steve Jeffers and Patrick Stone from Indiana were awarded the Sportsmen of the Year honors. They received $500.00 and two Smooth Moves gift certificates.

“I was proud to see Steve and Patrick chosen for this award,” said CUSA Operations Manager Darrell Van Vactor. “They truly are a team that works very hard to make

the sport of crappie fishing better for everyone.”

Young Angler of the Year

Christian McClure – $500 Scholarship Award

Top Male/Female Pro Division

Ling and Tony Grooms  – $500.   

Amateur Division Results
First Place
The top spot in the Amateur Division went to William Hinson from Cassatt, SC, and Tommy Slice from Chapin, SC. They came from 3^rd place on day one to take the lead with a two-day weight of 18.11 pounds. They received a Ranger RT 188-C with Mercury 115 hp engine, trolling motor, electronics, onboard charger, and Driftmaster Rod Holder Rack. The total value of the package is $31,250.

“It was a great week on Lake Hartwell in the Crappie USA Classic,” recalled Hinson.  “Tommy slice and I have been fishing crappie tournaments for over 25 years and it all came together this weekend. Conditions were tough in pre-fishing with 9 inches of rain that fell the week before causing the crappie to scatter from their normal holding patterns.”

Hinson and Slice found their fish just off the main river channel in small cuts. The fish were in 18 to 28 feet of water holding tight to the structure.

“We had 3 main spots so on day one our game plan was to get 7 good fish and move on,” said Hinson. “We wanted to have a chance to repeat catching them in those spots on Saturday.”

On Friday they weighed in 8.96 and that was good enough for third place and in a good position for the final day.

“We caught all our fish using the Garmin LiveScope Panoptix System,” continued Hinson. “We fished with HH Rods and Reels and .5-inch Fish Stalker jigs in glimmer blue on orange Skipper’s jig heads. When the fish got finicky we used small minnows and light lead to coax them into biting.”

On Saturday the team weighed in 9.15 pounds for their two-day total weight that gave them the win.

“Both days we caught close to 25 fish,” recalled Hinson. “Weather condition got tougher on Saturday with 10 to 20 mph wind and gusting higher.”  

Second Place

Heath Martin and Matt Eskridge teamed up to bring the 2^nd place weight to the scales in the Amateur Division. The Shepherdsville, KY team weighed a two-day total of 15.93 pounds to earn the runner-up spot and earn a check for $2,500 and an 8 foot Power Pole.

Martin and Eskridge fished just past the stadium under the bridge. They used Garmin LiveScope to target brush piles. They were one poling Freaky Franks baits in water that ranged from 12 to 20 feet deep. Red/chartreuse was their color of choice as they caught between 25 and 40 crappies on the weekend.      

Third Place

The third spot went to Richard Malcolm from Madison, GA, and Joseph Dickens from Waynesboro, GA. Their 3^rd place weight of 15.21 pounds earned them a check for $1500 and a Smooth Moves Seat coupon.

Malcolm and Dickens fished 30/20 Creek shooting docks in deeper water. They used a wide variety of jigs and colors as they searched for what worked best in the stained water. After fishing many docks they put somewhere between 40 and 60 fish in the boat in the two days of tournament fishing.

Fourth Place

Tracy and Chuck Davis teamed up to bring 14.82 pounds to the scales and claim the 4^th place finish. The Lexington, SC team earned a check for $1000 and $200 in Cabela’s Gift Cards.

They also chose to soot docks to catch their fish. They targeted docks in areas that had deeper water nearby. They stayed in the mid-lake area using Baby Bass and shad colored patterns to catch 25 crappies for the weekend.

Top Adult/Youth Team-Amateur Division

David and Braden Miller were awarded the top adult/youth team on the Amateur Division. Braden received a 500.00 scholarship.

Top Male/Female Amateur Division

Jeff and Rachael Still – $500.       

Epilogue

Darrell Van Vactor, CUSA Operations Manager, sent special thanks to Neal Paul with Visit Anderson SC for hosting the event and working so hard with the logistics to help make the event a memorable trip for all the anglers and staff. He also thanked Green Pond Landing for hosting the weigh-ins and the Hilton Garden Inn for great accommodations for the staff and many anglers.

“I have never worked with another CVB where every employee we interacted with had the exact same mission,” said Van Vactor. “Their goal was to make sure no one needed or wanted anything that was not supplied. What a pleasure it was to work with Neil, Whitney, and their entire staff this week.” 

“It was a great weekend in Anderson SC,” concluded Van Vactor. “Everyone caught good numbers of fish and enjoyed the fantastic hospitality found in Anderson and the surrounding areas.”

National Sponsors

National Sponsors of Crappie USA are Bass Pro Shops Cabela’s, Ranger Boats, Mercury Marine, Mustad Hooks, Gamma, B’n’M Poles, Driftmaster Rod Holders, Ego Nets, Brushpile Crappie, Charlie Brewer Slider, Crappie Now Magazine, Jenko Fishing, Big Bite Baits, Crappie Magnet, EFX Graphics, Fin n’ Frames, Crown Trophy, JR Madd Breading, Freaky Franks Tackle, Pro Controll, Bubba Blade, Flambeau, Smooth Moves Seats, Rejuvenade, Power-Pole, Millennium Marine, Crockett Creek Beef Jerky, Pesky Bug Repellant, Costa Del Mar, Daisy Air Rifles, and Garmin.

For more information on the Classic and other CUSA events visit the website at  www.crappieusa.com and Crappie USA Tournament Trail Facebook Page. The CUSA office is available by phone at 502-384-5924.

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. officials announced the slate for the 2022 Bassmaster Opens Series, with nine tournaments in three divisions covering nine states as the pathway to some of the most-coveted invitations in all of professional bass fishing.

After starting late in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Opens schedule will return in 2022 to a late-winter start date with the first tournament, a Southern Division event, set for Feb. 3-5 on the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes in Kissimmee, Fla.

From there, the Opens will wind through Tennessee, South Carolina, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, Virginia, New York and Maryland.

“Interest in the Opens from both anglers and fans has been at an all-time high the past few seasons,” said B.A.S.S. chairman and CEO Chase Anderson. “The excitement is only growing as Opens anglers enjoy success on the Bassmaster Elite Series. In fact, 2020 Opens Angler of the Year Bryan New won his first Elite event in February this year on the St. Johns River. The competition has been intense, and we’re thrilled to spotlight the future stars of our sport.”

The winners of all nine Opens will earn a berth into the 2023 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk, provided they have fished all three events in the division where their win occurred. In addition to Classic berths, the Top 3 anglers in every division and the Top 3 in the Falcon Rods Bassmaster Opens Angler of the Year overall standings will receive invitations to fish the 2023 Bassmaster Elite Series.  

“Twelve anglers will earn the right to fish professionally — to live their dreams on the most prestigious professional tour in bass fishing,” Anderson said. “And just like Chris Jones, who finished third at this year’s Bassmaster Classic as an Opens qualifier, nine anglers will have a chance at instant stardom in the Classic.

“Those are the things that will be on the line every time anglers take off for an Open.”

Starting the season in Florida has become a tradition for most of the major trails at B.A.S.S., and the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes has been a favored destination of late. The organization’s most recent visit there was for a 2020 Eastern Open that was won by New.

After Kissimmee, the Southern Division will visit Cherokee Lake in Jefferson County, Tenn., March 31-April 2, and Lake Hartwell in Anderson, S.C., Oct. 6-8.

B.A.S.S.’s most recent visit to Cherokee was for a 2020 Eastern Open won by Kentucky pro Matt Robertson, while Hartwell is a common B.A.S.S. destination that is scheduled to host the iconic Bassmaster Classic for the fourth time, March 4-6, 2022.

In the Central Division, events will be held on Ross Barnett Reservoir in Ridgeland, Miss., April 28-30, the Red River in Shreveport-Bossier, La., Sept. 22-24, and Sam Rayburn Reservoir in Jasper, Texas, Oct. 20-22. It’ll mark the first visit to Ross Barnett since 2018 and 35th time B.A.S.S. has held a major event on Sam Rayburn, dating back to 1968.

The trip to the Red River will be the first one for B.A.S.S. since the 2018 Central Open won by South Carolina pro Patrick Walters. Most notably, the fishery was the site of the Bassmaster Classic in 2009 and 2012.

“Shreveport-Bossier City is excited to host the 2022 Bassmaster Open on the Red River,” said Kelly Wells, executive director of the Shreveport-Bossier Sports Commission. “We look forward to providing world-class hospitality for anglers and their families here in Sportsman’s Paradise! We also want to give a special thank you to the Red River Waterway Commission for co-hosting this incredible event.”

The Northern Division slate will include visits to the James River in Richmond, Va., April 14-16, Oneida Lake in Syracuse, N.Y., July 7-9 and the Upper Chesapeake Bay in Cecil County, Md., Sept. 8-10. The latter tournament will mark B.A.S.S.’s first visit to the Chesapeake since a 2015 Elite Series event won by Alabama pro Aaron Martens.

“We are thrilled to be hosting a prestigious Bassmaster Open tournament in Cecil County’s Upper Bay waters,” said Cecil County Executive Danielle Hornberger. “We consider Bassmaster anglers to be VIPs and look forward to showcasing the best of Cecil throughout their visit. Competitors and fans can expect to find beautiful scenery, vibrant small towns and fabulous Chesapeake Bay inspired cuisine while exploring Cecil County, Maryland.”   

As in the past, the full field will compete the first two days before the boater side is cut to 10 anglers on Championship Saturday. The co-angler champion will be crowned after the Day 2 weigh-in.

Entry fees will remain the same for the 2022 Opens circuit. Pro anglers will pay $1,800 per event with an $800 deposit due up front, while co-anglers will pay $475 per event with a $200 deposit. Online registration for both pro and co-anglers will begin Nov. 9 for B.A.S.S Nation and Life members and B.A.S.S. members Nov. 11. 

“It’s always nice to have a good mix of fisheries that are familiar to us and places we haven’t been to in a while,” said Opens Tournament Director Chris Bowes. “We definitely have that with the 2022 schedule — and we have a diverse collection of fisheries that will test the versatility of our anglers.

“That always makes for a great tournament season.”

In 2022, FOX Sports will continue to broadcast live coverage from Championship Saturday of each of the division final tournaments on FS1 and the FOX Sports digital platforms.

2022 Bassmaster Opens Schedule

Southern

Feb. 3-5, Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, Kissimmee, Fla.

March 31-April 2, Cherokee Lake, Jefferson County, Tenn.

Oct. 6-8, Lake Hartwell, Anderson, S.C.

Central

April 28-30, Ross Barnett Reservoir, Ridgeland, Miss.

Sept. 22-24, Red River, Shreveport-Bossier, La.

Oct. 20-22, Sam Rayburn Reservoir, Jasper, Texas

Northern

April 14-16, James River, Richmond, Va.

July 7-9, Oneida Lake, Syracuse, N.Y.

Sept. 8-10, Upper Chesapeake Bay, Cecil County, Md.

About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the 515,000-member organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.

The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Bassmaster Elite Series, Bassmaster Opens Series, TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation Series, Carhartt Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mossy Oak Fishing Bassmaster High School Series presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors, Bassmaster Team Championship, Bassmaster B.A.S.S. Nation Kayak Series powered by TourneyX, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk.

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Media Contact: Emily Harley, B.A.S.S. Communications Manager, 205-313-0945, eharley@bassmaster.com

The City of Belton will hold a ribbon-cutting event at Belton Landing on the Saluda River on Monday, October 18^th at 2:00 PM to celebrate the completion of major redevelopment efforts at the facility.  The event will take place at 2520 SC Hwy 247, Belton SC, 29627. 

The redevelopment efforts at Belton Landing are the result of an ongoing partnership between the City of Belton, Anderson County, the Duke Energy Foundation, and the Anderson County Legislative Delegation.  The project received a $100,000 grant from the Duke Energy Foundation’s Water Resources Fund and a $35,000 grant from the SCPRT Parks and Recreation Development (PARD) program.  Improvements at the facility include improved parking and access as well as the installation of an ADA-accessible kayak launch.

Belton Landing represents the third major improvement project along the Anderson County portion of the Saluda River Blue Trail in recent years. Conceived by a consortium of public entities, private sector interests, advocates for the physically-challenged, environmental groups, and other stakeholders, the blue trail enhances water recreational access for six South Carolina counties along the Saluda River. Along with its sister sites in Powdersville and Pelzer, Belton Landing promotes and preserves our local natural resources through the creation of river access points and resource awareness opportunities.

Belton Landing serves as the southern anchor of a 20-mile segment of the Blue Trail that begins at Dolly Cooper Park in Powdersville. The Belton Access is located about 3 miles south of Duke Energy’s new 750-megawatt combined-cycle natural gas plant at the W.S. Lee Station.  Over one million people live within 50 miles of the Belton Access. The site’s convenient location makes it an attractive destination for kayakers, anglers, wildlife watchers, and those seeking more passive recreational interests.

Belton Landing is owned and operated by the City of Belton.

QUOTES

“The City of Belton is proud to host this facility and we look forward to meeting visitors from all across the nation.  I am grateful to the Belton City Council and former Mayor Wendell Page for their efforts to move this project forward—we wouldn’t be here today without their support.” – Mayor Eleanor Dorn, City of Belton

“The City of Belton has been working very hard to attract cultural and nature-based tourism to the community, and the improvements at Belton Landing are significant step forward in that effort. I am very proud that Anderson County was able to partner with the city on this project, and I am confident that the Saluda River Blue Trail will continue to grow into a beloved and nationally-recognized regional amenity.”—Anderson County Councilman Ray Graham

“Our partnership with the Duke Energy Foundation continues to bring many benefits to our region.  Duke Energy has been a wonderful steward of hydroelectric power and recreational resources on the Saluda River, and we very much appreciate their high level of positive participation in our community.” — Anderson County Councilmember Cindy Wilson

“The Saluda River Blue Trail directly serves hundreds of my constituents and benefits several cities, towns, and unincorporated communities in our region.  On behalf of the Anderson County Legislative Delegation, I congratulate the City of Belton on its efforts to provide sustainable, nature-based tourism and recreation opportunities.” –Senator Mike Gambrell, South Carolina Senate District Four

“It is hard to overstate the importance of the Belton Landing project to our community.  The facility will not only serve to improve river access and provide economic stimulus to the Belton area, but will also raise awareness to the fundamental importance of preserving our pristine natural resources.”—Representative Jay West, South Carolina House District Seven

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Denver Downs Farm in Anderson, SC to host Mums Fest weekend during the 2021 Fall Festival for families and flower-lovers

Anderson, SC (October 14, 2021) – Award-winning Denver Downs Farm in Anderson, South Carolina will host their firstMum Fest Weekend October 15, 16, &17, during their Annual Fall Festival complete with 2 acres of mums, pumpkins, sunflowers, and zinnias plus live music, food options, and children’s activities. 

“Our family has always loved flowers and what better way to show the love than to have thousands of mums for the public to enjoy face-to-face on the farm,” said Catherine Garrison, co-owner of Denver Downs Farm. “We fully expect to see these huge beauties show up all over Instagram – they are that gorgeous and perfect to take hope to decorate you front porch for the fall.”

The Mum Fest at Denver Downs will happen Oct 15 and 16: 10 am – 10 pm and Sunday 1pm-6pm. Guests will enjoy live entertainment- music and pig races in the afternoons during the festival. 

Guests are encouraged to purchase the huge mums and cut the sunflowers and zinnias make bouquets to take home.  Photographers are welcome as well. Private sessions can be scheduled for times outside of public hours. Food options include BBQ, nachos, hot dogs, chicken fingers, corn dogs, waffles and ice cream, fried Oreos, funnel cakes, and snow cones. Beverages offered on site are the famous Denver Downs lemonade, beer, wine, and fall Frozee out of the giant silo in the middle of the farm.

“We are hoping that families, flower enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone else looking to enjoy these fall beauties come out to the festival,” said Garrison. “In addition to these gorgeous mums, we will have 50 tons of pumpkins, our 10 acre “Bee Happy” maze and all the fun activities on the farm.”

Children’s activities will be open during the festival including the jumping pillow, zipline, slides, ball zone, ropes course, climbing wall, dodgeball, ga ga pit, and the Double D Gem Mine. Adorable farm animals will be ready for their photos to be taken including our mini goats, mini horses, and sheep.

Tickets are $19/person include plus all activities, live music, farm animals, and opportunities to get that perfect photo in the flower and pumpkin field. 

For more information go to www.denverdownsfarm.com. For interviews or photos please contact Catherine at 843-297-0140 or Catherine@denverdownsfarm.com.

It’s that time again!  Get ready to hear about ghoulies and ghosties that make their home in Belton as you stroll down the historic streets during the Belton Area Museum Association’s fourth annual Halloween Ghost Walk.

Six all-new historic properties are on the tour. Zalin’s Department Store (present-day Palmetto Roots Salon), the Cobb/Garrett House, the Charles Berry Lewis House, the Floride Cox House, the Central School, and  the site of the original city jail (present day Belton Tire Company) are all scheduled stops.  Exteriors of homes and businesses will be accessible and spine-tingling stories attached to each property will be shared by costumed presenters of the Belton-Honea Path High School drama team.

Price per person ($10 adults, $5 children 10 and under) includes guided tours of historic properties and unusual entertainment. Purchasing advanced tickets is encouraged as slots fill up quickly.  Price rises to $15 if purchased the day of the event.

Tours begin at 6 PM and will depart from the depot every 15 minutes until 8:15 PM. Each tour will last approximately 1 1/2 hours. Limited slots are available. Tours will be family-friendly in content.

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting or calling the museum during regular opening hours, Wednesday–Friday, 9 – 2 and Saturday 10 – noon.

Make plans to attend now. All attendees should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a flashlight. Wearing facemasks and practicing social distancing are encouraged.

For more information, contact Abigail Burden at 864-338-7400 or beltonmuseum@bellsouth.net.

Come join us on Thursday, October 28, for a wonderful Halloween tradition!

San Antonio, TX (October 6, 2021) – The 2023 BoatUS Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship presented by Bass Pro Shops will be the 18^th edition of this National Championship event.  First hosted on Lake Lewisville in 2006, the capstone event of each season for the Association of Collegiate Anglers is the longest-running National Championship in collegiate bass fishing.  Boasting a large amount of media coverage, a prize payout valued at over $30,000, and awarding the title of Bass Pro Shops School of the Year presented by Abu Garcia, the ACA National Championship is the prize jewel of collegiate bass fishing.  This prestigious event is set to take place at Lake Hartwell in Anderson, SC on May 25-26, 2023.

“We are very excited to announce Lake Hartwell as the host site for the 2023 BoatUS Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship presented by Bass Pro Shops,” said Wade Middleton, Director of the Association of Collegiate Anglers.  “Over the past 15 years or so, Hartwell has played host to some of the most prestigious events in all of competitive bass fishing.  The ACA is looking forward to the opportunity to bring college fishing’s most prized Championship to Anderson, SC, and this storied fishery.”

Lake Hartwell boasts 56,000 acres of water with 963 miles of shoreline.  Its fertile waters are home to a very healthy population of largemouth and spotted bass.  Along with great fishing and boating, Lake Hartwell’s crown jewel, Green Pond Landing, offers world-class facilities and recreational opportunities.  Green Pond Landing will be the focal point of the college fishing community during the final week of May in 2023, as this is where tournament launch and weigh-in will take place.

“We are very excited to be working with the Association of Collegiate Anglers and hosting the 2023 BoatUS Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship in Anderson County, Green Pond Landing, and Lake Hartwell,” said Neil Paul, Executive Director at Visit Anderson.  “We’ve been very blessed here in Anderson County to host some of the largest bass tournaments in the world and the opportunity to host the longest-running National Championship in collegiate bass fishing was an opportunity we didn’t want to miss! With the continued development of Green Pond Landing, we look forward to hosting the college anglers and providing them with a first-class experience. We have a tremendous community that supports our lake, our facilities, and more importantly, our visiting anglers. We are very proud of this partnership opportunity for everyone involved.”

The 2023 BoatUS Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship presented by Bass Pro Shops will be the final event on the schedule for the 2022-23 season of the Bass Pro Shops Collegiate Bass Fishing Series.  A no-entry-fee event comprised of a 200-boat field of college fishing’s top young anglers, the ACA Championship features the most extensive media coverage of any collegiate fishing event.  The complete event will be featured in the ACA television series seen across national networks, as well as detailed coverage online, via social media, digital e-blasts, and live streaming on the Outdoor Action TV app.

Not only will a new National Champion be crowned on the final day of tournament competition, one team will be awarded the Bass Pro Shops School of the Year presented by Abu Garcia.  The ACA School of the Year race is college fishing’s only all-encompassing national ranking system.  Teams compete in events across the county over a 12-month span, battling to earn the number one ranking.  Once the scales close at Green Pond Landing on May 26, 2023, point totals will be tallied, and one deserving school will be crowned Bass Pro Shops School of the Year presented by Abu Garcia.

More news regarding the 2023 Championship will be released in the coming months.  Also, stay tuned for another major announcement regarding the ACA and Lake Hartwell in the near future as well!