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While it doesn't snow very often in Manning, SC, it is still important to know how to drive on snowy, slippery roads when it does happen. The winters in this part of South Carolina bring temperatures down into the mid-30s, which also means there is the possibility for ice on the roads. When you travel through the area during the colder months, make sure you are ready for anything. Follow these winter traveling tips when passing through Manning, SC. Pack for All Conditions Even if your trip starts in an area where it is warm, you will want to plan for any type of weather and pack cold weather clothes. In many parts of the country, the weather can change quickly. Make sure you have a winter jacket, gloves, and a hat in the car and always keep a blanket with you. If you pass through Manning on your way north, you will also want to pack items such as a shovel, a cell phone charger, and sand or kitty litter in case you need to get out of a slippery situation. Check the Forecast Ahead of You Always look at the weather not only in the area where you are starting your trip but also where you're heading. It is so easy to see what is coming, even when you are already on the road, so take advantage of it. If severe weather is coming in, you can either delay your trip by a day or two or leave early if you can beat a storm. Driving on Slippery Roads The key to safe driving when the roads get slippery is slowing down. It is also important to know how to stop on an icy road. If you have ABS brakes, apply firm and steady pressure on the brake pedal. The ABS system will take care of pumping the brake for you. If you drive an older model that does not have ABS, pump the brakes to keep the vehicle moving in a straight line. Always leave extra time to stop, and keep in mind that if the roads have ice on them, it does not matter if you have all-wheel drive, four-wheel-drive, or two-wheel drive. The vehicle will slide. Pack an Emergency Kit It is a good idea to have an emergency kit in the car no matter what time of year you head out on the road. The kit should include a flashlight with working batteries, an air compressor, a first aid kit, jumper cables, some basic tools, a utility knife, and first aid supplies. You should also keep food and snacks in the car so you have something to eat if you run into any problems. Pack a few energy bars, water, and some other snacks that will stay good for several days. South Carolina may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of snow, but it pays to be prepared. Follow these winter traveling tips for a successful winter road trip through the Manning area and beyond.   Image via Pixabay.com | CC 0 | Cropped from original

The ideal family car is reliable, safe, and of course, entertaining. Whether you are in charge of carpool duties or you and the family are heading out on a long road trip, an entertaining interior is a must. Check out the exciting entertainment features of the Dodge Grand Caravan. Personalized Music Listening Experience In the Dodge Grand Caravan, you no longer have to scan through radio station after radio station to find a song you like. The Radio 430 system offers you a CD and DVD player for a more personalized music listening experience. The Dodge Caravan is equipped with Uconnect with voice command feature which lets you access your radio stations, as well as text messages and phone calls hands-free. Everything is displayed clearly on a 6.5-inch high-resolution touch screen. Stay connected via the USB port. Plug in your smartphone and then control your radio stations via the steering wheel. 2019 Dodge Caravan drivers also receive one free year of SiriusXM satellite radio service, which gives you over 130 channels of commercial-free music and podcasts. Upgrade to SiriusXM Travel Link for local fuel prices, sports scores, or to pull up local movie showtimes. You can also request current weather conditions, both at home and at your intended destination. Connect to the available Garmin navigation to access turn-by-turn directions to your planned destination. Single DVD Entertainment System The setup of the Dodge Grand Caravan also allows you and your passengers to enjoy different forms of entertainment on your commute. You can enjoy your music from the front seat while the children watch a movie or play a game in the back on the single DVD entertainment system. The included wireless headphones mean a quieter drive for everyone. Fun On the Go Guaranteeing entertainment once you reach your destination is just as important as the fun you have during the commute. The best-in-class spacious interior of the Dodge Grand Caravan means you can bring along all your cargo. The Super Stow'n Go storage system with 60/40 split folding seats gives you a maximum of 140-cubic feet of cargo space. You will never run out of room with the additional storage compartments, including an overhead bin and front seat storage. Need a break? You can pull over and flip the seats into the tailgate position. Entertaining Conveniences The Dodge Grand Caravan has many features that are sure to make your drive not only entertaining, but also more convenient. You will find numerous charging outlets throughout the cabin, ensuring that every passenger's device is always connected and fully charged. Have your backseat passengers been quiet for too long? You can easily check on them with the standard observation mirror which gives you a clear view of both the second and third row. With multiple charging devices, a personalized musical experience, and an available DVD player system, your family might actually enjoy their commute in the Dodge Grand Caravan. Come by Santee CDJR today to check out the family-friendly 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan.   Image via dodge.com

The 2019 Dodge Journey is the affordable SUV that easily transitions from daily commuter to adventure-ready vehicle. Check out the following features that make the Dodge Journey the perfect choice for your next SUV. Appealing Exterior Design The exterior design of the Dodge Journey offers you the right amount of cargo and interior space without the bulky body. Drivers can also personalize their Journey by choosing from three trim levels and the availability of a Blacktop Package. The Blacktop appearance package comes with 19-inch glossy black aluminum wheels, blackened headlamp bezels, black exterior mirrors, and black roof side rails. Capable Power and Performance Whether you are heading into the office or meeting some friends for a weekend camping trip, the Dodge Journey is versatile enough to meet your needs. Drivers can choose from two engine setups, including a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine or a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. You can easily bring along your camper or boat with a maximum 2,500-pound towing capability. With features like trailer sway control and electronic stability control, you can tow at maximum weight while still remaining safe. The upgraded high-performance suspension means you and your passengers enjoy a smooth and comfortable ride, regardless of what you are towing in the back. Comfortable Interior Whether you are commuting alone or transporting the entire soccer team, you and your passengers are sure to enjoy the comforts of the Dodge Journey. The comfort starts with the driver's area. The available leather-wrapped heated, six-way, power-adjustable driver seat with lumbar support will turn your carpool errands into a luxury. With third-row stadium-style seating, you can keep an eye on back seat passengers while also giving them their space for comfort. In the Dodge Journey, everything has a place with the cargo area in-floor storage compartments. There is also an in-floor cooler compartment, perfect for thirsty passengers. Accommodating Technologies With the accommodating technologies of the Dodge Journey, it almost feels like you have your own personal driving assistant. Upgrade to the Uconnect 3 with navigation on the 8.4-inch touch-screen driver infotainment system to easily access your phone calls, text messages, and navigation hands-free. Sync your smartphone via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for an even more customized experience. Reliable Safety The intuitive safety features of the Dodge Journey allow you to push safety to the back of your mind and focus on the road ahead. Safety begins with the durable exterior design of the Dodge Journey. It features a protective high-strength steel frame with carefully placed crumple zones and full interior advanced airbags. You can easily manage the most difficult of parking situations with the Parkview rear back up camera system and the Parksense rear park assist system. The advanced braking system uses brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, and four-wheel anti-lock brakes to ensure you can safely come to a complete stop. The Dodge Journey checks all the boxes for a reliable and adventure-ready SUV. Come by Santee CDJR today to check out our full inventory of Dodge Journey SUVs.   Image via dodge.com

There's nothing better than spending a day on the golf course relaxing and soaking up the outdoors. Check out these golf courses in the Manning, South Carolina area that are great for all ages and skill levels. The courses are open year-round and are perfect for every season. Wyboo Golf Club The State newspaper of Columbia has rated the Wyboo Golf Club as one of the Top 10 Best Public Golf Courses in South Carolina. The course is an 18-hole, par 72, Tom Jackson signature course that is absolutely worth taking the time to check out. The course is located on the north end of Wyboo Creek, which runs right into Lake Marion, offering beautiful lakefront views while you work on your golf game. The Wyboo Golf Club has a pro shop, driving range, putting green, and a practice bunker. The fairways are wide and good for golfers that are able to drive a long distance. The holes become more of a challenge and require greater skill and strategy as one starts to approach the greens due to the many water hazards. Their signature hole is No. 13, a par 3, estimating 191 yards with a large sloping green and surrounding bunkers and water. The Wyboo course is great for all ages and experience levels, offering four different tee placements, and is well maintained throughout the year. The Players Course at Wyboo At the Players Course at Wyboo, you are sure to spend the day admiring the beautiful scenery with lots of wood terrain. This 18-hole, par 72 course allows for flexibility in play because there are very few water and bunkers, making it a good course for all skill levels. A driving range and practice green are available for practice. The club also has a pro shop and snack bar on-site. If you are interested in improving your golf game, consider signing up for a lesson with the PGA-member, Certified Golf Professional instructor at the Player's Course. Shannon Greens Golf Club The Shannon Greens Golf Club is a beautiful 18-hole, par 72 course with lots of water views. The course is often referred to as the “Home of the Island Green” because of its most popular hole No. 7, which is entirely surrounded by water. The club has a driving range, pitching and chipping area, and a putting green for practice. Shannon Greens is a challenging course with tees for pro, men, seniors, and ladies. A teaching pro is on staff for those interested in taking lessons to help improve their game. When you are done playing, check out the clubhouse with friendly staff, full bar, and a snack shop, perfect for relaxing and unwinding. Whether you have the day off work, are vacationing in the area, or are looking to improve your golf game, you can't go wrong at any of these courses. Depending on what you are looking for, each of these courses offers a unique experience. Grab your clubs and hit the links at these Manning, South Carolina, golf courses!   Image via Pixabay | CC 0

The Dodge Challenger sits at the top of many dream car lists. Its exceptional performance paired with an aggressive exterior design makes it the ultimate muscle car. The 2019 Dodge Challenger is available in six different trim levels, giving you the ability to completely customize the car of your dreams. SXT The 2019 Challenger SXT may be the base model, but it still offers an exciting performance with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine for 305 horsepower. It also comes equipped with the Uconnect 4 on a 7.0-inch touch-screen driver infotainment system that is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capable. A rearview camera system assists with parking. With dual-zone climate control, each passenger will enjoy the ride in the SXT. Safety features start at the SXT level with available features including forward collision warning, rear cross traffic alert, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. GT The GT trim level gives you the same engine setup as the SXT with the addition of larger 20-inch alloy wheels. A sporty suspension is standard on the GT rear-wheel drive mode. Drivers can also opt for all-wheel drive at this level, but then you give up the upgraded suspension. R/T Upgrading to the R/T trim level gives you a 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 engine with an active exhaust system for 372 horsepower. Although it features the same 20-inch wheels on the previous GT model, the wheels are painted with a premium aluminum design. You can purchase the R/T in the Plus, Shaker, or Scat Pack trims. R/T Scat Pack The R/T Scat Pack is a great trim level for those who crave a little more power. It comes equipped with a 6.4-liter Hemi V-8 engine for 485 horsepower. In addition to the larger engine, drivers will also enjoy the upgraded performance parts. The R/T Scat Pack comes with dual heat extractors, larger Brembo brakes, and a launch control feature. On the inside, you will find an 8.4-inch touch screen and premium Alpine music system. SRT Hellcat The 2019 SRT Hellcat produces even more power with a 6.2-liter supercharged SRT V-8 engine for 707 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. Pairing this impressive engine setup with the available TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission offers you an experience unlike anything else. The SRT Hellcat also comes with 20-inch blackened performance wheels. SRT Hellcat Redeye If you are finally going to get your dream car, then why not choose the absolute top of the line? The SRT Hellcat Redeye produces even more power at a maximum of 797 horsepower. It comes with all the features of previous models, plus an easy-access driver cockpit, an SRT chiller system, radial tires, and exclusive exterior graphics. The painted hood sets it apart from the other Challenger models. You might find it difficult to stop looking at the exterior of the Redeye, but the interior is just as impressive. On the inside, you will find premium nappa leather-wrapped heated and ventilated seating, an 18-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, and hands-free turn-by-turn navigation. There are many different ways to create the Dodge Challenger of your dreams. Come by Santee CDJR today to check out the 2019 Dodge Challenger.   Image via dodge.com

Dining opportunities in Manning are abundant despite its smalltown status in the heart of Clarendon County. In fact, the city has a thriving food scene beckoning residents and visitors alike to grab a bite at its top-rated establishments. With that in mind, here's your guide to some of the town's most talked-about food stops. Mariachi's Mexican Restaurant What catches most eyes at Mariachi's is the elegant wall art and colorful carvings adorning each chair back and table stand. These showcase various aspects of Mexican culture and provide a unique backdrop for diners as they enjoy authentic Mexican dishes. Each table is presented with fresh tortilla chips and salsa to start, leaving guests to then choose among favorites like the pico de gallo chicken soup, stuffed chili poblano, or famous chimichanga, along with housemade refried beans and rice. You can also browse the dessert menu for sweets like fried ice cream or strawberry churros, sample a glass of beer or wine at the full-service bar, or take advantage of the daily specials on drinks and food. With a main dining hall and outdoor patio, Mariachi's offers a cozy and comfortable environment for guests looking to dine south of the border. McCabe's Bar-B-Que If old-fashioned, pit-cooked barbecue served buffet style is more your taste, the recently reopened hidden gem known as McCabe's Bar-B-Que is the place to be. Plus, its walls are decorated with critic and magazine reviews that truly showcase the success of this small establishment built on a dedication for quality food and local flavors. There are too many menu favorites to list, but we suggest the pulled pork accompanied with signature vinegar-pepper sauce, rice with homemade sausage, or syrup-covered yam patties. On the side you'll see options like okra and tomatoes, mac and cheese, and sweet potatoes. However, you'll only find these delectable barbecue foods available three days a week during opening hours. Gullah Gullah Fish Genuine Gullah cuisine is the main specialty at this fish market/seafood restaurant. Gullah Gullah Fish serves up Southern favorites like alligator bites, shrimp and grits, and nine different flavors of chicken wings. You can also order a house classic like the blue crab platter with sausage, shrimp, boiled eggs, and corn on the cob. Pair your entree with a hearty side of coleslaw or hush puppies, and continue onto dessert where you're treated to sweet delights such as Mama's Famous Peach Cobbler or Aunt Jeanie's Famous Apple Crunch Cake. Porter Jacks Grill Sporting a menu with kid-friendly and adult options, Porter Jacks Grill has the right fit and feel for hosting family hangouts. Plus, its menu is even more inviting thanks to appetizers like buffalo or bourbon chicken wings, fried green tomatoes, and loaded nachos. You can then select from an array of soups and salads, burgers and sandwiches, or Southern picks like country fried steak, Charleston shrimp and grits, or catfish stew. Happy Hour runs daily from 4 to 7 p.m., so be sure to take advantage of Porter Jacks' food and drink specials, too. Whether you're in the mood for Latin American cuisine, barbecue classics, or SSouthern-styledishes, cruising the streets of Manning will help you discover these and other top dining hot spots in the city. Image by piviso_com via Flickr | CC 0 | Cropped from original

The 2019 Ram 1500 can handle any demand you toss its way with utmost power and precision, whether you need it for on-the-job responsibilities or everyday driving proficiency. With the high-end performance necessary for a range of on-the-go tasks, the Ram 1500 is a modern crusader in the full-size truck segment. Here's what makes it a top choice in today's auto market. Customizable Trims The Ram 1500 lends itself to six standard trims, including the Tradesman, Big Horn/Lone Star, Laramie, Rebel, Laramie Longhorn, and Limited, along with a Kentucky Derby special edition. You'll then see cab options split among quad and crew, with bed lengths ranging from 5 feet 7 inches to 6 feet 4 inches. The quad cab will get you less seating space, particularly in the back row, but a bigger bed. The crew cab is the largest size you can get and offers a choice of either bed length to ideally suit your cargo and passenger demands. Impressive Engine Specs At the base is a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine churning out 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque. An available 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 with active noise control optimizes power further with an output of 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque. Both units nonetheless remain responsive thanks to functions like variable valve timing, standard duty engine cooling, and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Work-Ready Performance The Ram 1500 relies on a dependable, 98-percent high-strength steel frame and powerful chassis for unparalleled performance on a daily basis. In fact, MotorTrend named it a 2019 Truck of the Year finalist for its ability to handle work conditions with ease. This truck runs in either two-wheel drive (4x2) or four-wheel drive (4x4), the latter offering enhanced traction and off-roading support. You can also expertly tune your pickup with an available Off-Road Group package. This unlocks features like all-terrain tires, ultra-HD front shocks, and an electronic-locking rear axle. Additionally, this vehicle has capacities peaking at 12,750 pounds for towing and 2,300 pounds for payload. Add in a set of four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, unlimited warranty coverage for rust-through corrosion, and a top highway rating of 25 mpg, and you have a pickup with unmatched performance. Cozy Interior Styling You need a truck that delivers as much comfort as it does brawn. The Ram 1500 certainly entertains as much thanks to its generous cabin. In fact, passengers see up to 132.4 cubic feet of space along with 66 inches of front shoulder room and 65.7 inches in the back. With standard seating for five or six and crew cab-exclusive, second-row in-floor storage bins, you'll find more than enough space for accommodating people and personal belongings. State-of-the-Art Safety The 2019 Ram 1500 offers an impressive suite of protective features designed for ultimate peace of mind. These include supplemental side-curtain airbags, a Sentry Key theft-deterrent system, and 60 months/60,000 miles of complimentary roadside assistance. You can also upgrade to an Advanced Safety Group package that offers cutting-edge, tech-based functions in abundance. These include adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, full-speed forward collision with active braking, and a 360-degree Surround-View camera. Need a reliable work truck backed by superior performance and passenger comfort? The all-new Ram 1500 has just that wrapped within a sporty outdoor package.   Image via ramtrucks.com

Finding events near Manning to fill your upcoming itinerary isn't hard to do. Whether your plans include driving past a Christmas light display, celebrating local history, signing up for a fishing tournament, or partaking in a thrilling marathon race, the attractions and activities to choose from are broad and diverse. Here's a list of popular events to check out in and around Manning this coming year. Florence Festival of Lights (Florence) December is meant for Christmas lights and visits with Santa, and you'll find both at this season's Florence Festival of Lights. Set along Hoffmeyer Place, guests will drive along a designated course dotted with fantastical light displays encompassing more than 150 installments and covering themes such as Santa's helpers and Disney characters. You can also take the kids to Santa's Village where they can snap photos with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, write Christmas letters, and enjoy a steaming cup of hot chocolate or apple cider. All events will take place over three weekends beginning on Dec. 7 until Dec. 22, and a portion of the proceeds will go to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. The American Heritage Festival (Lake City) Graham's Historic Farm holds plenty of historic significance in the town of Lake City. In fact, the farm dates back to 1738 and once served as a food supplier and Patriot campsite during the American Revolutionary War. Still residing with the Graham family, the farm is now home to the annual American Heritage Festival, which commemorates the War through battle reenactments, cannon demonstrations, musket firing shows, and military vehicle displays. Additional amenities include an evening drum circle and light show, guest speaker presentations, hatchet throwing contests, live entertainment, and a variety of festival fare. Events for next year's festival will take place from Feb. 2–3 with tickets available for purchase online. Striped Bass Festival (Manning) Celebrating its 40th annual run across Courthouse Square, the Striped Bass Festival in Manning is a true fisher's delight and occurs every April amid the gorgeous springtime blooms native to Clarendon County. Activities include a morning parade, carnival rides, children's games, arts and crafts vendors, food stalls, local school art viewing, and an open-team fishing tournament. Plus, you'll join the community in celebrating the Striped Bass Festival Queens, ranging from all age groups, as they ride among a set of elegantly adorned parade floats. The Great Inflatable Race (Sumter) Have you ever thought of running a marathon lined with giant inflatable obstacles? Likely not! But the Great Inflatable Race hosted at the YMCA of Sumter gives you the perfect chance to start. This event, held on April 27 and open to all ages, spans 1.5 to 3.1 miles (5K) along a route boasting up to 10 inflatables where you and the family can climb, jump, and bounce your way past the Castle of Doom, Ball Pit, and Volcano Escape. Purchasing a VIP ticket unlocks even more adventure, allowing you unlimited access to the Inflatable Village and its attractions such as the Gladiator Joust, Bungee Run, and DINOmite Bouncy House. Sign me up! If you're searching for fun activities for the whole gang to enjoy this coming year, these top four suggestions offer a nice starting point for local residents.   Image via Pixabay | CC 0

Nature aficionados and camping enthusiasts will find plenty of adventure-tuned performance behind the wheel of any Jeep Wrangler. It's got athletic brawn at the base, ample off-roading finesse, and two-door and four-door options for a truly customized ride. Here's why the Jeep Wrangler, including its latest model, has been charming outdoor fanatics for more than 75 years. Sporty Engineering Jeep fashioned the latest Wrangler with five athletic trims: Sport, Sport S, Sahara, Rubicon, and MOAB. All are available with four doors, while the Sport, Sport S, and Rubicon come in two-door configurations as well. Additionally, you'll find a stocky frame with a wide wheelbase of 118.4 inches and a generous cargo capacity of 72.4 cubic feet. Beyond that, you get an easily removable, zipperless Sunrider soft top or available three-piece hard top, skid plate shields for the fuel tank and transfer case, and vivid paint options like Firecracker red, Mojito! lime green, and Hellayella yellow. If you're taking your Jeep Wrangler camping, you need the accessories to get you there in comfort and style. This capable hauler comes with a hitch receiver you can mount a cargo rack to as well as Jeep-rated gear such as roof rack rails, a camping trailer, attachable awning, roof tent, or a Jammock (Jeep Hammock) to get you ready for your next outdoor adventure. Dynamic Engine Specs The 2019 Jeep Wrangler features responsive hardware under the hood. We begin with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine pushing out 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. It pairs with an engine oil cooler and engine block heater plus variable valve timing and engine start-stop for optimized performance. Meanwhile, an optional 2.0-liter inline-four eTorque engine generates 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque alongside a turbocharger and direct injection. Lastly, all units mate to a six-speed manual transmission, though the MOAB gets an exclusive eight-speed automatic transmission. Trail-Rated Performance The Wrangler's four-wheel-drive chassis unleashes performance ideally suited for off-roading, as the enhanced torque transfer and traction allow it to traverse over gravel or dirt roads, sand dunes, and across deep puddles and small streams. You'll also find outdoor trips easy to handle thanks to all-season tires, a hydraulic assist brake booster, and trailer sway damping. The Sahara, Rubicon, and MOAB are further tuned for off-roading via accessories such as anti-lock heavy-duty brakes, Dana 44 HD wide front and rear axles, and a four-door towing capacity peaking at 3,500 pounds. You can also add an available Trailer Tow Group package with four-pin and seven-pin wiring harnesses, a Class II receiver hitch, and four auxiliary switches to haul camping equipment like a pro. Superb Safety Features Any road trip is made better when you've got the right safety systems to back it up. Fortunately, the 2019 Jeep Wrangler does just that with its impressive list of advanced multi-stage front airbags, tire-pressure monitoring, and 60 months/100,000 miles of roadside assistance. Finish off with a group package upgrade and you'll unlock features such as SiriusXM Guardian Service with stolen vehicle assistance and blind-spot monitoring with cross-path detection. Make the most of your camping trip with a seat behind the wheel of a Jeep Wrangler. It's got the performance and dependability to keep confidence up no matter your destination.   Image via Jeep.com

South Carolina has great weather all year, making it the perfect place for people who love the outdoors. There are state parks and forests to visit within a short drive of Manning, along with natural areas and town parks where you can just relax and enjoy the fresh air. Here are some nature centers worth visiting in Manning. Swan Lake Iris Gardens Swan Lake Iris Gardens is a fun place for the whole family to visit. True to its name, this area has lots of swans to see along with some turtles and even alligators. These animals are in a fenced-in area to keep them away from visitors, but they are fun to look at from a distance. This park has a playground for the kids, walking paths to explore all around the grounds, and some beautiful scenery to explore. You'll see lovely flowers as you walk along the paths, and there is even a butterfly garden. Santee National Wildlife Refuge The Santee National Wildlife Refuge in Summerton is located just a few miles outside of Manning. This 13,000-acre refuge sits along the shores of Lake Marion. It is a winter destination for many ducks and geese, and it's a nesting place for several migrating birds and raptors. There are all sorts of activities for visitors to enjoy including fishing, bird watching, and hiking. Some of the wildlife you might come across at this refuge includes alligators, painted bunting, and over a dozen different species of ducks. Woods Bay State Natural Area Visit Woods Bay State Natural Area for a quiet sanctuary where you can enjoy nature. Located just a few miles off Interstate 95, this park features a boardwalk that takes you through a forest that sits in standing water. As you walk along the path, make sure to read the signs that provide information about the dark waters and the trees. This natural area is home to many migratory birds, and depending on the time of year, you might even see an alligator. You can also take a walk to the historic Mill Pont to see old grist mills. Or, you can bring your kayak and paddle along the 1-mile Kayak Trail to see all the birds in their natural habitat. Santee State Park Santee State Park has a little of something for everyone. It sits along Lake Marion, which has an abundant population of large catfish. Camping is available on the lake, or you can stay in one of the cabins. Some of these are even on piers right on the lake. This area offers many activities for visitors such as fishing, boating, bird watching, swimming, and both hiking and biking trails. For a more leisurely stroll, three different nature trails offer short walks. These include the 1-mile Limestone Nature Trail and the half-mile Sinkhole Pond Nature Trail. Get out and explore these natural areas near Manning, South Carolina. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery found only in South Carolina and see some of the wildlife, native plants, and flowers. Image by chrismeller via Flickr | CC BY 2.0 | Cropped from original

We depend on our vehicles to get us to and from places every day. When it comes to trucks, they often need to perform other jobs as well. It is essential to keep up with regular maintenance to make sure your truck keeps working for you, and while every make and model is different, there are some things that every truck needs to stay in good working order. Watch out for these signs that it's time to take your truck in for service. Fuel Mileage Is Going Down If you drive the same route every day and notice that you need to fill up the gas tank more often than usual, your truck may need some maintenance. A reduction in fuel economy is often the result of low tire pressure. Or, one of the brake pads could be sticking. Your vehicle may also just need a tune-up. Make sure you always pay attention to the fuel mileage, so you know when it is not performing up to its regular standards. Noisy Brakes The brakes in your truck should not make any noise when you press down on the pedal. If you find that you have to press down harder than usual, or if you hear squeaking as the truck comes to a stop, then it is time to bring it to the dealer to have the brakes checked, All the parts of the braking system are wear-and-tear items that need maintenance and replacements on a regular basis. Sluggish Acceleration Since you drive your truck every day, you know how quickly it accelerates. If you notice that it feels sluggish when you press down on the gas — whether you are starting from a complete stop or accelerating at highway speed — it is time for service. Make sure to bring it in as soon as you can to have your dealer's service department check it out. Regular maintenance will often prevent this problem. Warning Lights The warning lights on your dashboard are there for a reason, and you should not ignore them. If a light goes on, you can start by checking the owner's manual. If it is an indicator of a problem, you should bring the truck to your dealership. Some warning lights indicate a minor issue such as low windshield wiper fluid or low tire pressure, but no matter what the light is for, never ignore it. Regular Maintenance Keep track of the maintenance on your truck, and keep it on a regular schedule for service. You'll know it is time to go in when you hit a certain number of miles. Frequent oil changes, fluid checks, and tire rotations will keep you safe on the road. Make sure to have the tires rotated every time you bring in your vehicle for an oil change to keep them from wearing unevenly, and also have them aligned and balanced. Regular maintenance and paying attention are key to keeping your truck in good shape. Image by truckhardware via Flickr | CC BY 2.0 | Cropped from original

There is always something going on near Manning, South Carolina. Whether you like to spend time outside or you would rather find something to do indoors, there is something for everyone. Late November and early December is a great time to be in Manning and the surrounding towns with all the fall and holiday events going on. Make sure to check out these events and festivals near Manning this year. Bigger Wednesday Golf Tournament & Tailgate Party Get your team together for the Bigger Wednesday Golf Tournament & Tailgate party on Wednesday, Nov. 14 in Sumter. The cost is $50 per player, it takes place at the Sunset Country Club on Golfcrest Road, and after you can join the fun at the annual tailgate party. Tickets for the party are $20 for adults and $10 for kids. The event includes dinner catered by Willie Sue's, beer and wine, music, dancing, and a silent auction. There will also be face painting for the kids, door prizes, and appearances by Cocky and Tiger and Blaze. Ft. Motte Oyster Roast and Shrimp Boil The famous Ft. Motte Oyster Roast takes place each fall in Fort Motte and welcomes over 500 oyster lovers each year. This event includes all-you-can-eat oysters, shrimp boil, hot dogs, corn, and lots of homemade desserts. Tickets are $35, and the proceeds go to the Parish Church of St. Matthew's. Santa is Coming to Crosswind Farm The annual Santa is Coming to Crosswind Farm event will take place on four separate days this year. Crosswind Farm — located on Target Road in Holly Hill — will host Santa on Saturday, Nov. 24, Dec. 2, Dec. 8, and Dec. 22 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Admission for kids 18 and under is $20, and adults are free. Admission gets the kids a professional picture with Santa, and they get access to the bounce house, zip line, horse and pony rides, trampoline, playground, and a holiday photo booth complete with props. There is also a petting zoo with mini pigs, hedgehogs, bunnies, and chickens. Taste the Town 5th Annual Christmas Shopping Expo On Saturday, Dec. 15, make sure to head to Sumter for the Taste the Town 5th Annual Christmas Shopping Expo. This event will feature over 50 vendors and 20 tasting tables. A DJ will provide music, and there will also be live music and celebrity guests. The expo opens at 10 a.m. with free gift bags for the first 100 guests. Fantasy of Lights Don't miss the annual Fantasy of Lights at Swan Lake Iris Gardens in Sumter. This tradition gets started on Dec. 1 and runs through Dec. 31. The lights turn on Sundays through Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and on Fridays and Saturdays from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. You can catch the opening ceremony on Dec. 1 starting at 6 p.m.. Admission is always free, and this event is open to everyone. Make sure to check out these events and festivals near Manning this year. Image by Foodista via Flickr | CC BY 2.0 | Cropped from original