EDITOR’S NOTE Responding to COVID-19 Shortly before this issue went to press in late March, our state began to feel the early effects of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Caused by a new, highly contagious strain of the coronavirus, COVID-19 can cause fever, a dry cough and labored breathing. In people with underlying health conditions and the elderly, the disease can be life-threatening. For the latest health information and preventive measures, see cdc.gov and scdhec.gov. To slow the spread of COVID-19, Gov. Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency that prohibited large public gatherings, and closed restaurants, theaters, schools, libraries and other public spaces. When you read this, we may or may not have a better idea of when we can once again get rowdy at independent wrestling matches (pages 20–24), sample gourmet food at Greenville’s hottest restaurants (pages 25–32), and attend our favorite festivals (this page and Calendar, page 44). Please note that events listed in this issue may ultimately be canceled or postponed. Contact the organizers for the latest information. South Carolina’s electric coopera- tives have taken sound measures to protect members like you and the co-op employees who provide safe, reliable electricity every day, whether it’s a typical spring day in the Palmetto State, or we’re in the midst of a global pandemic. See pages 4–5 for other news from your cooperative and visit the co-op’s webpage for the latest updates. As we all work to contain the spread of COVID-19, the staff of South Carolina Living will do our best to keep you informed and entertained. We urge readers to take the necessary precautions to ensure the well-being of friends, family and neighbors—and to stay optimistic, just as we have through hurricanes, ice storms and a 1,000-year flood. Staying calm and holding onto hope in the face of adversity is the South Carolina way. —KEITH PHILLIPS, EDITOR SCLIVING.COOP | APRIL 2020 | SOUTH CAROLINA LIVING 7 HIGHLIGHTS APRIL 15–MAY 15 KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Dates and times of events are subject to change. Please verify all information with BLYTHEWOOD RODEO APRIL 24–25 organizers if you plan to attend. With 10 years in the saddle, the Blythewood Rodeo knows how to rope up the excitement for a weekend’s worth of fun. Eight events over the weekend include adult and youth bull riding, bareback bucking bronco riding, and barrel racing, plus cowgirl breakaways and steer wrestling. It’s defifinitely not the wran- glers’ fifirst rodeo, and they have the commemorative shirts to prove it! Complete the experience by trying out the DOKO mechanical bull or perhaps a pony ride. Admission is $16 for adults, $8 for youth under 12, and free for kids under the age of 5. All events take place at the Blythewood Community Park Arena. blythewoodrodeo.com SOUTH CAROLINA POULTRY FESTIVAL MAY 7–9 The South Carolina Poultry Festival is the perfect dose of late-spring, down-home charm and community gathering that looks like it’s straight out of a wholesome movie. In its 34th year, the festival has grown to include a host of twirly, whirly rides for the kids, a car and tractor show, craft and food vendors, live entertainment by the Root Doctors and Tokyo Joe, a big fifireworks show and of course, the #1 World’s Best Chicken Cooking Contest. Admission is free but bring cash for rides and snacks. (888) 427-7273; scpoultryfestival.com SPRING CHAMPAGNE STROLL APRIL 25 Toast the arrival of spring at historic Drayton Hall. Guests who register for the Spring Champagne Stroll can sample difffferent types of bubbly and learn how sparkling wine is made as they stroll the house and grounds that Conde Nast Traveler calls a “best place to see in South Carolina.” The event runs from 2–4 p.m., and tickets are $20–25. (843) 769-2600; draytonhall.org/event/april-25-spring-champagne-stroll-at-drayton-hall/ GET MORE For more happenings, turn to our Calendar on Page 44, and see expanded festivals and events coverage on SCLiving.coop.