Getting out on a budget this weekend -

Spring has arrived - This weekend marks the first day of Spring and I invite you to treat this weekend as a new time. In this world of uncertainty that we live in, isn't it nice to know that there are certain things you can count on:

* There will be a change of seasons 4 times a year
* The Magnolias will bloom and golfers will head to Augusta for the Masters
* The sun will rise in the east and set in the west
* The trees and flowers will come to life and give us a sense of hope and optimism

Carl's suggestions for a budget conscious downtown weekend:

1. Load the family in the mini-van and drive into downtown, park in any of the 1800 free parking spaces located downtown. Walk South on Main Street to Falls Park and Liberty Bridge. Bring the camera and take pictures of the family in the park, on the bridge, with ice cream on their face from the Lazy Goat Gelato or Spill the Beans, don't forget to take some bread from home and feed the ducks in the river. Now walk North on Main Street to the Hyatt and along the way find the "Mice on Main." Turn left on College Street and walk 3 blocks to Heritage Green where you can enjoy the Bob Jones Museum, Upcountry History Museum, County Library, and the County Art Museum with its Andrew Wyeth and Jasper Johns Exhibit (admission is always Free!) (click here for details). Price - Your precious Time

2. Put your jogging or walking shoes on and get out early in the morning for a jog or stroll along Main Street, Cleveland Park, or the West End. Grab some Coffee, Grits, and a fresh baked muffin at Soby's on the Side. Enjoy an afternoon of shopping with local retailers along Main Street, lunch at cafe offering outdoor dining, sip a great bottle of Champagne or Chianti, enjoy a long lost conversation with your lunch date. Take in some March Madness before dressing up a little and enjoying a meticulously prepared meal at one of the wonderful restaurants downtown. Retire to your home, condo, or hotel room. Price - Priceless

3. Head up 25 past Furman to Highway 11 and over to Table Rock State Park. Pack a picnic lunch, and hike Table Rock. It's supposed to be a clear and cool weekend and remember it's the first day of Spring. Once at the top, just sit and look out over the beautiful landscape and reflect on how lucky we are to live where we do, and think of all the positive things that you have to be thankful for. Come down the mountain, enjoy your picnic, put the top down on the convertible, and head back to town. Take your loved one to a great dinner along Main Street and enjoy live, relaxing music at one of many downtown venues after dinner. Price - whatever you make it

This weeks local downtown partner is Mayme Baker Studio at 610c South Main Street (864-467-1960). Enjoy 25% disount from March 20 - March 28th. This offer valid with by printing this email and providing it at the time of purchase. Valid only during the dates mentioned and not valid with any other offer or gift cards.

Table 301 Events Calendar:

Friday March 20 - Join us at Devereaux's lounge on Friday night as Monty Craig and Grant Cuthbertson play some great Jazz for you from 8:00 until. No Cover

DJ Ray spins your favorite tunes at The Lazy Goat. Come on out and re-live your youth with hits from all generations.

Check out March Madness at The Lazy Goat - two big screens on all day - enjoy the games with lunch or dinner.

Saturday March 21 - Join us at Devereaux's lounge on Saturday for our Jazz trio of Eric Page, Tony Waldrop and Moss Mack from 8:00 until. No cover

Tuesday, March 24 - Stelzner Wine Dinner at Devereaux's. Allison Steltzner will host of this evening of fine wines and amazing food. Steltzner Vineyards, located in the idyllic Napa Valley, is known for producing wines of exceptional quality in the heart of the Stags Leap District. The dinner begins at 7 pm and is $75++ per person. Click here to view the menu and wine pairings.

Thursday, March 26th - Thomas Creek Beer Dinner in The Loft at Soby's. Great cuisine paired with local brews, a great way to greet Spring. $55++ per person. For reservations, please call 232-7007. To see the menu, click here.

As always, we are grateful for the time you spend with us and your continued support. I look forward to seeing you at your favorite table.

Carl