The blooming azaleas and dogwoods make these some of the prettiest weeks of the year. Just as spring signifies new growth, we have new projects and celebrations in a number of areas of Newberry as well.

Food Lion is remodeling their Newberry store, one of 92 Food Lions in the Carolinas to get a new look. Improvements over the next few months will include new flooring, shelving, refrigeration and registers.

Beside CVS, good progress can be seen on Starbucks and Firehouse Subs with steel going in place this week.

Genesis Hub Coffee Shop will soon move to the front of Main Street, at 1110 Main Street. Owner Eddie Long says this will give them more room and exposure. In addition to its popular cups of coffee and tea, Genesis sells whole bean coffee by the bag that’s locally roasted and “super fresh,” Eddie says.

Two downtown businesses were recently recognized among the best in the state. Figaro the Dining Room was recently named South Carolina’s best small town steakhouse and described in the article as “delightfully upscale, yet casual restaurant that can satisfy every craving you have.” Manager Mary Moore says Figaro business is increasing, from a tasty breakfast, a popular brunch, to delicious lunch and dinner that draws locals and tourists alike.

Books on Main was named one of the 10 best bookstores in the state, and owner Randy Berry says they’ve gotten much good feedback on this honor, which they greatly appreciate. In addition to their excellent collection of new and rare books, Randy says they can order any book you want and have it in a week.

Joe and Mary McDonald look forward to their daily visits to see the progress at the Old Newberry Hotel, which they are renovating. The nine apartments are nearing completion and are stunning with a mix of old and new. The original 1878 floors were beautifully redone; unique antique mantles, picked by Mary, were placed over each old fireplace; plus the kitchens features new granite countertops and the latest appliances. Several of the apartments are already rented, even before opening. The event and studio space will be open in the fall. Gayle Metts is the contact for apartments and events at 276-9223.

Progress continues at the city recreation complex on Glenn Street Extension. Playground equipment will be installed later this month and the spray pad installation will begin mid-May. The city’s new water tank on Airport Road is nearing completion and will be painted an earth-tone.

Fun events help make spring exciting and fill the calendar, including today’s popular Pork in the Park festival downtown. At Marion Davis Park today, the SummerFun Horseshoe Tournament takes place with 54 players from 12 states.

Churches have special Easter services next week. On April 27, downtown merchants will host an open house, Relay for Life will be held May 11 and Taste of Newberry will be May 17.

Thank you for supporting Newberry businesses and events.

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Foster Senn

Contributing Columnist

Foster Senn is the mayor of Newberry. His columns appear periodically in The Newberry Observer.