by Diane and Joe Maniscalco
A festive gathering of likeminded, native plant-loving people was held on October 18-19. It was attended by the Upstate region as well as folks from as far away as the coast of SC. The rustic beauty of Table Rock State Park was the perfect setting for this event.
Photo Credit: Jon Storm
The Table Rock State Park staff needs to be commended for all their efforts recovering from Hurricane Helene to enable this event to take place. It was a touch-and-go decision as to whether this event would need to be canceled or rescheduled. Everyone was sure happy it was a GO!
A huge thank-you to the team, led by our fearless and dedicated Upstate Chapter President, Pam Barbour, for pulling everything together to ensure the symposium was a success.
Photo Credit: Jon Storm
Photo Credit: Jon Storm
Both days of the symposium were fun-filled with keynote speakers Tim Lee and Keith Bradley. Workshops with Nancy Basket and Ryan Merck, breakout sessions from Joy Spirithawk and Carmen Ketron, as well as lake tours at Jocassee, were highlights. Of course, the various hikes with five outstanding leaders were a hit as all wanted to explore our beautiful fall mountains. The enthusiasm was energetic, and it was so much fun to see pockets of people having lively conversations—all things plants.
Photo Credit: Diane Maniscalco
Photo Credit: Diane Maniscalco
Photo Credit: Rick Huffman
Photo Credit: Rick Huffman
Photo Credit: Jon Storm
The “Junction,” located just down the road a bit in Gowensville, SC, was an outstanding caterer for both evening dinners. They received many compliments from the symposium attendees.
Following an informative discussion on SCNPS Advocacy by the one and only Rick Huffman and Frank Holleman, a live performance by the band “Cornbread Heads” was enjoyed by all.
Photo Credit: Jon Storm
Our SCNPS State President, Dan Whitten, gave us an update on all SC state chapters’ ongoing progress as well as a general business discussion. The silent auction had 30+ items that were met with some high bids, as well as some playful moments when Rick Huffman, a co-founder of SCNPS, even signed one of his very own vintage t-shirts.
The feeling of the symposium was overwhelmingly energetic, with lots of laughter and hugs when folks got to see old friends. People left with a feeling of pride and renewed vigor to spread the word of our outstanding SCNPS organization.
Photo Credit: Joe Maniscalco
Photo Credit: Diane Maniscalco
Photo Credit: Diane Maniscalco
Photo Credit: Diane Maniscalco
Photo Credit: Jon Storm
