Simpsonville: My How You've Changed

One of my very first jobs as a reporter was covering the Golden Strip.

I must admit I haven't frequented the Simpsonville area too often in recent years, but, wow, so much has changed.

I've been to the normal places a reporter would go — the police station, the fire department and city hall, just to name a few.

And on my personal time, I've visited Heritage Park for Freedom Weekend Aloft, an Easter egg hunt and a ballgame.

I've shopped at your Kohl's and eaten at some of the restaurants off Fairview Road, but I'm beginning to see Simpsonville in a whole new and improved way.

The schools are bigger and there are more of them. The downtown has really grown and is thriving. There are lots of new shops and restaurants for me to explore, including a cool ice cream stand near the train tracks.

Then there's that new — OK, new to me — venue for events at The Loom.

Hillcrest Hospital has grown and lots of new medical practices have popped up along South East Main.

I love the addition of the Veterans Memorial Park and the winding brick path up to the marker and the flags.

While it makes me sad that the newsroom where I once cut copy is now a barber shop, I've learned a few things about Simpsonville haven't changed.

You can still get a good meal at Dragon Den and Anita's Mexican. And, believe me, I've eaten my fair share of meals there over the years.

The Big K is still open.

And, most importantly, the people who live and work here. They still are some of the nicest folks I've ever met and I can't wait to meet more of them as Simpsonville Patch launches in the community.