Happy Thanksgiving Greenville County

Councilman Blount’s Newsletter 11-25-24

As we step into the season of gratitude, I want to take a moment to wish you and your family a warm and joyful Thanksgiving. This holiday is a time to reflect on the blessings we often take for granted and to share in the joy of community, family, and friendship.

First and foremost, I am deeply thankful for a loving God who provides strength, guidance, and grace in every aspect of my life. His blessings are the foundation of everything I do, and I am humbled by His unwavering presence.

I am also profoundly grateful for my loving family, who are the center of my world. My wife is my rock and my greatest supporter. Her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering encouragement inspire me every single day. Whether it’s the way she loves our family or the thoughtful way she listens and advises, she is truly the heart of our home and my partner in every step of this journey.

To my three amazing children, you fill my life with so much joy, purpose, and laughter. Each of you has your own unique gifts, and watching you grow into the people you are meant to be is the greatest privilege of my life. You remind me every day why the work I do matters—because it’s all for you and for the future we’re building together.

Beyond my family, I am so thankful to serve such an incredible community filled with hardworking, passionate, and resilient people like you. This Thanksgiving, I find myself reflecting on the unique blessings that come with being your county councilman. Here are just a few:

• The Passion of Our Citizens: From neighborhood meetings to council chambers, I am thankful for constituents who care deeply about our county’s future. Your ideas, feedback, and even constructive criticisms push me to do better and to serve you more effectively.

• Our Local Businesses: Whether it’s the friendly smile at a locally owned coffee shop or the innovation of a small business owner creating jobs, I am thankful for the entrepreneurial spirit that drives Greenville County’s economy forward.

• The Beauty of Greenville: From the trails of Paris Mountain to the Swamp Rabbit Trail and the charm of our local parks, I am grateful to live in a county where natural beauty surrounds us and inspires us every day.

• The Tireless Work of County Staff: To the county employees who maintain our roads, support public safety, and ensure that county services run smoothly, I am deeply thankful for your dedication. Your behind-the-scenes work often goes unnoticed but is absolutely essential.

• The Spirit of Community: Whether it’s neighbors helping neighbors during Hurricane Helene or residents organizing food drives for those in need, I am in awe of the generosity and compassion in Greenville County.

• Our Shared Stories: From the history of our textile mills to the exciting growth and innovation happening now, I am thankful to represent a place where tradition meets progress and where our collective story continues to unfold.

• The Opportunity to Serve: It is one of my greatest honors to represent you and to work alongside a council filled with individuals dedicated to making Greenville County a better place for all. Your trust in me is something I value deeply, and it motivates me every day.

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Thankfully Shop Local

As we gather with friends and family this Thanksgiving season, let’s take a moment to support the local businesses that make Greenville County so special. These small businesses are the lifeblood of our community—they create jobs, support local families, and invest in our neighborhoods. Yet, as large chains continue to expand, it’s increasingly challenging for these businesses to compete and thrive. By shopping locally, you’re not just making a purchase; you’re making a statement that our community matters.

Here are some amazing local small businesses in Greenville County that deserve your support this holiday season:

• Beverly’s Alterations

501 Poinsett Hwy, Greenville, SC 29609

With over 76 years in business, Beverly’s Alterations offers expert tailoring and clothing alteration services. Their attention to detail ensures your garments fit perfectly, supporting a longstanding local business. They also provide an amazingly comfortable atmosphere where I often find myself sitting on their couch and catching up.

• Daydrinkers

2903 Old Buncombe Rd, Greenville, SC 29609

Opened in August 2023, Daydrinkers is a coffee shop and café founded by best friends Katie and Nikki. They offer their own “Daydrinkers blend” espresso, co-curated with Methodical Coffee, and feature locally made pastries. Supporting Daydrinkers helps sustain a new, community-focused business. I use this as one of my many offices to work during the week.

• The Big Clock of Berea

7000 White Horse Rd, Greenville, SC 29611

A family-style restaurant known for its Southern cuisine, The Big Clock of Berea offers a welcoming atmosphere and a menu featuring comfort foods like fried chicken, pork chops, and homemade desserts. Supporting this establishment helps preserve a local dining tradition. Their menu is so large and diverse, you can go every day of the week and find something new that hits the spot!

• The Tomato Vine

3043 Old Buncombe Rd, Greenville, SC 29609

This neighborhood produce market offers fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and pantry staples. Supporting The Tomato Vine helps keep sustainable farming alive and ensures access to fresh, affordable produce in our community. This is my preferred local honey pick up location!

• Swamp Rabbit Café & Grocery

205 Cedar Lane Road, Greenville, SC 29617

A community-focused café and grocery store offering locally sourced produce, baked goods, and handcrafted meals. Supporting Swamp Rabbit Café helps sustain local farmers and food producers.

• Pink Mama’s Ice Cream

125 S Main Street, Travelers Rest, SC 29690

This charming ice cream shop offers handcrafted, locally made ice cream in a variety of unique flavors. Pink Mama’s is the perfect spot for a sweet treat with family and friends, and every scoop supports a small, family-owned business.

• Shortfields

24 S Main Street, Travelers Rest, SC 29690

Shortfields is a local restaurant offering a variety of dishes, from burgers and salads to steaks and seafood, in a casual and friendly atmosphere. Supporting Shortfields helps sustain a business that has been part of the community since 2013.

• Furman Co-op Bookstore

3300 Poinsett Highway, Greenville, SC 29613

A great spot for finding books, gifts, and Furman University apparel. Supporting this bookstore helps preserve independent retailers in our area.

Why Shop Local?

Every dollar spent at a local business stays in our community, circulating through wages, taxes, and reinvestments. These businesses create character and personality in Greenville County, offering a uniqueness that no big-box store or chain can replicate. They are the cornerstone of our community, and their success depends on us.

This Thanksgiving, let’s show our gratitude by shopping local. Together, we can ensure these businesses continue to thrive and make Greenville County the amazing place we all call home.

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Thanksgiving week in Greenville County is also packed with activities and events for all ages to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to kick off the holiday season with ice skating, attend a festive performance, or explore local holiday markets, there’s something for everyone across our vibrant community. From Greer to Simpsonville, Travelers Rest to Slater, and everywhere in between, this guide highlights the best events happening throughout the week to help you make the most of your holiday break. Dive into the list below to plan your celebrations and enjoy all that our area has to offer!

• United Community Ice on Main

November 25 – January 20

Enjoy outdoor ice skating in downtown Greenville. Open daily; hours vary. Pre-purchasing tickets online is recommended.

• Disney on Ice

November 27, 29, 30, and December 1

Experience the magic of Disney at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena. Tickets available at the box office.

• Festival of Trees

Started November 22

Stroll through downtown Greenville to view beautifully decorated Christmas trees at the Courtyard Marriott Downtown and the Hyatt Regency.

• Night of Lights at Heritage Park

Opened November 22

A walk-through light display in Simpsonville, open daily, including holidays. Hours: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays, and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Tickets available in person at CCNB Amphitheater at Heritage Park.

Thanksgiving Day (November 28):

• Thanksgiving Dinner at Restaurant 17

11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Join a traditional Thanksgiving buffet in Travelers Rest. Seatings at 11:00 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 4:00 p.m. Reservations required.

• Turkey Day 8K

Morning

Start your Thanksgiving with an 8K run in downtown Greenville. Details available on the City of Greenville’s Events & Cultural Arts page.

Post-Thanksgiving Events:

• Christmas at the Farm

November 29 – December 1, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Kick off the Christmas season with tree shopping, crafts, and more at Arran Farm. Tickets: $20/adults, $10/children.

• Book Warehouse Outlet Sale

November 29 – December 1

Explore over a million books, games, and more at 70% off.

• Ice Skating at Ice on Main

Open daily

Enjoy ice skating in downtown Greenville. Open on Thanksgiving Day from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

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This newsletter is certainly not a typical one, but sometimes it’s just as important to pause and reflect on the blessings around us as it is to organize and fight for what we believe in. As we step into the season of gratitude, I hope we all take time to celebrate the place we call home and the people who make it special. Greenville County is more than just a collection of neighborhoods—it’s a community filled with passion, beauty, and a spirit of togetherness. Whether it’s supporting our local businesses, enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds us, or simply gathering with loved ones, let’s cherish the many reasons we have to be thankful.

From my family to yours, I wish you a warm and joyful Thanksgiving. May it be a time of reflection, connection, and hope as we move forward together. Thank you for the privilege of serving you, and may we continue to build a brighter future for Greenville County.