Some call it the "Cali Lean," others the "Tennessee Tilt." But here in the Palmetto State, it is affectionally (or scornfully) referred to as the "CAROLINA SQUAT." Squatted vehicles (mostly pickup trucks) is an aftermarket modification that lowers the rear suspension and raises the front. If you look at the vehicle from the side, it literally appears to be "squatting." Two years after a pedestrian was struck and killed by a squatted vehicle in Myrtle Beach, there has been a push to ban these type of modifications. Law Enforcement has been long in favor of such legislation, citing reduced driver visibility, headlight trajectory, and elevated bumpers that would not align with other vehicle's bumpers in the event of a collision. Furthermore, mechanics have stated that such modifications causes the vehicle to breakdown and deteriorate at an accelerated rate. “The transmissions aren’t designed to operate the front end higher than the rear end. The pumps don’t pick up the fluid enough, it ends up burning up clutches or your gears in the transmission And it just doesn't operate well," said Joey Lemmon, Owner of Hound Dog 4x4 Automotive repair shop.

Earlier this month the General Assembly voted overwhelmingly to outlaw these type of modifications, and it was signed into law by Gov. Henry McMaster on May 16th, 2023. The law will go into effect 180 days later. The new law (S.C. Bill 363) will allow Law Enforcement to stop vehicles with such modifications and issue violations. First violations of the law will result in a $100 fine. A second offense is $200 and a third will lead to a $300 fine and driver's license suspension for a year. The law also bans driving any vehicles, besides pickup trucks, that have been elevated or lowered more than 6 inches while still being leveled. Penalties range from $25 to $50, according to the law. 

We want to hear your opinion on the new law. Please leave (respectful) comments below. 

(Click Above Photo For Listing)

Located in the beautiful, well-established Murraywood neighborhood, this one of a kind home has 3 bedroom, 2.5 baths.

An oversized garage, basement and very large rooms.

The nearly 500 square foot living room offers a shiplap wall with a stone fireplace. 

Located directly off the kitchen, the formal dining room is spacious and has a ceiling fan.

The eat-in kitchen features resurfaced, Formica countertops, painted cabinets with porcelain knobs and plenty of cabinet space.

Walk into a foyer with hardwood floors, decorative chair rails and a half-bath.

The upstairs landing has a huge closet for storage. The extra large, nearly 500 square foot master suite features sitting area, walk-in closet, dressing area with a dual vanities plus an additional sit-down vanity, and separate tile shower.

Bedrooms 2 and 3 are large and located on the other side of the house with a large, shared, tiled bathroom at the top of the landing.

The oversized two-car garage has a garage door opener and peg boards that are perfect for your tools. Enjoy the partially finished basement workshop that is great flex space and ready for projects. 

Windows, roof and exterior Hardy Plank (fiber cement siding) all installed new in 2017, making this a very energy efficient home. Murraywood is conveniently located to shopping and restaurants. All this and the award winning Lexington/Richland School District Five.

Photo Dignitaries: Irmo Police Chief Bobby Dale (rear left), Jason King, Broker/Owner of J. King Real Estate, Kim Dennis, Operations Manager of Serve & Connect (front center), Kevin Caldwell, Executive Director of The Haven (front 3rd from right), Ace Martin, Retired Pawtucket, RI Police Officer (front 2nd from right).

It is May 15th, and to most of us that means we are halfway to June. But what many do not know is that this is a solemn day of remembrance within the Law Enforcement Community.  In 1962, President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15th as “Peace Officers Memorial Day” and the calendar week in which May 15th falls, as “National Police Week.” Established by a joint resolution of Congress, this day of observance pays special recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others. 

This year, J. King Real Estate has partnered with Loveland Coffee, The Haven, and Serve & Connect to honor those who proudly wear the badge and to bring about awareness of the life-threatening dangers that they face on a daily basis. The Haven is a safe place for men and women in law enforcement to find rest, peace, and a supportive community to help them process the stress and demands of their profession.  The Haven exists to rescue officers, restore relationships, and rebuild community trust. Additionally, Serve & Connect is on a mission to foster positive change by connecting the Police with the community over their shared humanity and joint desire to make their communities safer, healthier, happier places to live. As a small token of our gratitude, this morning we met with members of our local Irmo Police Department to listen to their stories, thank them for their service, provide them with breakfast donated by Loveland Coffee, and remind them of the silent majority of Americans who support Law Enforcement and are forever grateful for their sacrifice. 

This week, we can all show our support of the men and women in blue through small acts such as paying for their cup of coffee, turning on a blue light in your porch lamp, sending a brief thank you card to your local Police Department, wearing a blue ribbon, or by simply approaching an Officer, shaking their hand and thanking them for their service. Peace Officers Memorial Day is a heartfelt reminder that not all Heroes wear capes.

Written by Ace Martin

Join J. King Real Estate for an evening filled with hand-selected wines, craft beer, local eats, music by Rhythm 54, and laser tag hosted by CNY Attractions. 

Thursday, May 11, 2023

5PM-8PM

Irmo Town Park

Advanced Tickets: $40

Door Tickets: $50

SPONSORSHIP OPTIONS:

$150 – Signage plus two tickets

$200 – Booth (shared tent, table, 2 chairs - Chamber Partners)

$300 – Booth (shared tent, table, 2 chairs - Non-Partners)

Events@GreaterIrmoChamber.com

803.749.9355

Register Online at GreaterIrmoChamber.com

When my family and I relocated to South Carolina from New England, one of the most celebrated attractions of the Midlands was a manmade body of water named Lake Murray. Boasting more than 650 miles of shoreline, I expected this 50,000 acre "Jewel of the Midlands" to provide it's residents with endless access to beaches and lakeside parks. Much to our surprise, the only public beach that could be reached by land was on the Lexington side of the Lake Murray Dam (its official name being the Dreher Shoals Dam.) To make matters even worse, our ill-timed arrival to the Midlands came only months prior to the entire world shutting down for the next two years. Owned and operated by Dominion Energy, the power mammoth decided not to open Lake Murray Public Park in the summer of 2020...and then again, the summer of 2021. 

After two grueling years of anticipation, we were elated when Dominion broke the news that the park would reopen for the 2022 season. That summer, we had friends visiting us from New England, and we eagerly seized the opportunity to share our first experience of the park with them. Much to our disappointment, we were underwhelmed by the miniscule amount of shoreline, rocky ground conditions that made it difficult for our kids to comfortably play in the water, and fly infested beach area. The covered picnic area had been well maintained, with grills in working order, and clean restrooms, we still found the location suboptimal for families with children. 

Fast-forward to 2023, we heard some exciting news for Lake Murray residents. To set the scene, let's travel back to the 1960's when South Carolina Electric & Gas (SCE&G) was the resident power company. The company set up Pine Island as a private, members only club for it's employees and their families. What was once one of the hottest spots on the lake, the Island boasted a clubhouse, shelters, picnic tables, grilling areas, swimming area, two playgrounds, tennis and volleyball courts, boat ramps, pool, marina, and numerous other amenities. When Dominion Energy acquired SCE&G in 2019, the 27-acre, $9.5 million  private island was part of the deal. 

In 2008 SCE&G began a $9 billion nuclear plant expansion.  The project seemed doom to fail from the get go, as it way plagued by endless delays, lawsuits, and criminal charges. Having spent more than $10.4 billion in construction and interest on the project, a new analysis indicated that the project would not be finished until 2024 at a total cost of more than $25 billion. Ultimately, the project was abandoned in July of 2017, and to date, it is still widely considered South Carolina's most expensive business failure. In an attempt to to help pay off hundreds of millions in back-owed taxes as a result of the failed project, current owner Dominion Energy will transfer four of it's properties to the S.C. Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism. If you have made it this far into the story, you can probably guess the outcome. The once private, members-only Pine Island will be South Carolina's first new State Park in two decades...and also it's smallest. Opened in 2006, H. Cooper Black Memorial Park, located in Chesterfield County, was the State's last park to open. 

With it's existing structures and amenities, officials remain optimistic that Pine Island will not take long to transform into the next public hotspot on Lake Murray. Accessible by boat and a causeway, neighbors of Pine Island neighbors remain unconvinced that the island can handle a larger volume of traffic that a state park could draw. This blog will be updated as the story evolves. 

BLYTHEWOOD, SC

Originally known as DOKO (a Native American term that means "watering place"), the town was named after the railroad stop "Doko Depot, which was destroyed in 1865 by General Sherman during the Civil War. A "community" comprised of loosely scattered homesteads, farms, and forests, the railroad made it possible for Doko to rebuild in the post-war decade. By 1877, the community was back on it's feet, and officially changed it's name to "BLYTHEWOOD;" after The Blythewood Female Institute. Two years later, Blythewood was officially incorporated as a Town (1879.) 

The George P. Hoffman House, built in 1955, is the oldest standing building in Blythewood. Built in the "Greek Revival" style, this one-story, braced-frame residence once served as the Town Hall, but now stands as the gateway entrance to Doko Meadows Park.

Doko Meadows is pet/family friendly oriented park in the heart of Blythewood, that serves as the community hub for music, arts, recreation, competitions, and celebrations. Playgrounds, soccer fields, skating facilities, and rope course are just a few of the amenities available to the children of Blythewood. Six miles of walking trails that pass through open fields, wooded areas, neighborhoods, schools, and lush gardens are a dream come true for the outdoorsman in all of us. In addition to a weekly Farmer's Market, Doko Meadows is home to the Palmetto Citizens open-air Amphitheater. Set by the lake, this stunning 2,500 seat venue boasts a large stage and concession area, hosting numerous concerts and events throughout the year.  

With a small town feel, Blythewood provides a rural, family friendly environment, yet offers all of the growth and resources that make it a 21st century community. Conveniently located off of I-77, Blythewood is only a short drive to all of the restaurants, shopping, zoos, museums, waterparks, and night-life offered by The Capitol City of Columbia. Blythewood is a patchwork quilt of new communities, mature neighborhoods, historic homes, working farms, and rolling hills. 

With and estimated population of 4,446 (2020), Blythewood offers it's residents peace of mind with it's own Police and Fire Stations. If you have school-aged children, Blythewood is a great place to learn, as it is zoned for the award-winning Richland 2 School District. If continuing education is one of your needs, there are numerous universities within a 20-mile radius, including the state flagship; The University of South Carolina. 

Blythewood boasts many places of worship, an accessible Town Hall, and a very active community events calendar, including "The Beach Bash," "The 4th of July Celebration," "The Blythewood Butterfly Festival," and "The Doko Rodeo," just to name a few. If you are in need of some tee-time, Blythewood offers numerous highly rated golf courses for the novice and advanced alike.

If you and your family are looking for an active community that retains all of it's quintessential southern charm, then you need look no further than Blythewood, South Carolina. 

The Town of Irmo, SC.

Self-proclaimed as "A Great Place to Live," The Town of Irmo was originally incorporated in 1890 by two railroad officials, Mr. Iredell and Mr. Moseley, giving the town the name of Irmo. The town stayed fairly small through the mid-1900s. During the 1960s and 1970s the town's population was around 500 residents. Now the town has grown to more than 13,000 residents and is a thriving place to live, work, and play.

Ideally located between the Capitol City of Columbia, and Lexington, Irmo retains it's small town feel, but is within minutes of some of the Midland's biggest attractions. Harbison is a treasure trove of shopping, dining, and entertainment opportunities. Meanwhile, Lake Murray, is a massive 50,000 acre body of water, with over 650 miles of shoreline, and provides residents with countless water activities, including sailing, fishing, swimming, water skiing, and even scuba diving. Lake Murray is the stage for countless events throughout the year, including "Drift Jam," "Reggaetronic," and the "Fourth of July Fireworks Display," all hosted from Spence Island.

Whether you have kids, pets, or just enjoy the outdoor life, Irmo is home to numerous parks, playgrounds, walking trials, gym equipment, picnic shelters, BBQ grills, lush gardens, and even an Amphitheater. Home of the Okra Strut Festival and Parade, Irmo has an extensive calendar of events, including concerts, craft fairs, food tastings, festivals, and wine walks. 

A Park for Everyone. 

Irmo is home to three unique parks, and is currently building a forth. 

• Irmo Community Park: Located at 7507 Eastview Dr., the park amenities include the Prisma Health Amphitheater, two picnic shelters with BBQ grills, walking trails along with playgrounds, and restrooms. The Community Park is also home to the famous Okra Strut Festival and Parade. On April 30, 2023, The Community Park will host the Irmo International Festival. This festival will include International Food, Stage Entertainment, 100 Vendors, Live Music, Free Face painting, Free Balloon art by Balloonopolis, a StoryTellers Tent, Bounce House, Art exhibits, and endless family fun. Help build the Rangoli – art on the ground—come to park April 24-28 at 5:00 pm to take part in creating this beautiful art form and help finish it at the Festival. The 2023 Acts include DJ and Sound by FADE Ent, Rhythm 54, East Point Academy Dancers, Legacy Martial Arts, Roshi M, Bharatnatyam, Irmo Music Academy, Gruv Dance Academy, and the Oak Pointe Elementary Bucket Band. The park is open from 7:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. daily and is free for public use. To view shelter/park availability visit our Facility Availability Calendar. All facility reservations are notated in green. The calendar is updated weekly.

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• Irmo Town Park: A quaint park located at 7330 Carlisle Street. There is a Gazebo nestled among lush gardens and is home to the Town of Irmo's Annual Christmas Tree Lightning. This is a perfect location for weddings and is available for reservations. The park is open from 7:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. daily and is free for public use. To view shelter/park availability visit our Facility Availability Calendar. All facility reservations are notated in green. The calendar is updated weekly.

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• Irmo Veterans Park: Dedicated to our faithful Veterans, Irmo's Veterans Park is located on Palmetto Wood Parkway. The Park features a walking trail with gym equipment along the path so you can enjoy the outdoors and get in a workout, or simply read a good book. The park is open from 7:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. daily and is free for public use. To view the shelter/park availability visit the Facility Availability Calendar. All facility reservations are notated in green. This calendar is updated weekly.

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• Rawls Creek Park: With ground having been broken on August 12, 2021, Rawls Creek Park will be a 9.94 acre green space located at 113 Friarsgate Blvd. The park will consist of a Playground with Rubberized Mat, Small Dog Park with Shelter & Pond, Large Dog Park with Shelter & Pond, Community Garden, Skateboard Park, 40 New "Green" Parking Spaces, Resurface Existing Asphalt Parking, Lighted Perimeter Walking Path, Decorative Wrought Iron Fencing, Lighting, Well House & Irrigation, New Landscaping, and Restroom Facilities.

The Town of Blythewood Presents

The 13th Annual Blythewood DOKO Rodeo

****NEW LOCATION****

          10433  WILSON BLVD, BLYTHEWOOD, SC 29016

Friday 4/21 & Saturday 4/22

Gates Open: 5:30PM

Rodeo Starts 7:30PM

TICKETS:

Adults - $20

Kids Ages 6-10 - $12

Kids 5 & Under - FREE

FREE PARKING 

GET UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL TO JOIN THE ACTION!!  ENTERTAIN  FAMILY, FRIENDS, CUSTOMERS, EMPLOYEES ARENA SIDE!  BOXES INCLUDE 8 CHAIR BACK SEATS, SNACKS, SODAS AND WATER. CORPORATE OR PERSONAL BANNERS DISPLAYED ON BOX.

$350 NIGHTLY. $650 BOTH NIGHTS 

TO RESERVE YOUR BOX OR PURCHASE A CUSTOM SPONSORSHIP/ADVERTISING PACKAGE PLEASE CONTACT: INFO@BLYTHEWOODRODEO.COM   

EVENTS:

BULL RIDING

BAREBACK BRONCS

BARREL RACING 

SADDLE BRONCS

STEER WRESTLING

COWGIRL BREAKAWAY

TIE DOWN ROPING 

TEAM HEADING/ HEALING

PATRIOTIC GRAND ENTRY

BOOT RACE 

COME EARLY FOR BEST SEATS, FOOD & FUN. MECHANICAL BULL. WESTERN SHOPPING. BOUNCE HOUSE/SLIDE. PONY RIDES!

Unimproved commercial property located in Lexington, SC. One acre commercial property in Lexington; wood can be timbered; zones for general commercial; corner lot with great frontage.

This remodeled, 1 level, brick home is located in the established Coatesworth neighborhood. 

The formal living and dining are open and provide and excellent formal sitting and dining area.

There are beautiful refinished hardwood floors throughout and the kitchen has new luxury vinyl plank flooring.

The addition makes the Livingroom huge and open with a large brick fireplace.

All 3 bedrooms are large and are all on 1 floor.

Relax on the large 470sqft back patio.

If the 2 car garage is not enough, tinker in the 438sqft workshop with bay door.

This could be a separate detached 1 car garage also.

There is even additional storage in the unfinished cellar/ basement. All this in the heart of Irmo. conveniently located to shopping, dining, I26 and award winning Lex/ Rich 5 Irmo schools.