Sweet potato ice cream
By Jackie jacper@ju Pneor.rcoonme

Sweet potatoes are a very versatile vegetable.

Don't say you've seen everything. July 6- 8, the Hopkins Community will introduce you to something new: Sweet Potato Ice Cream.

That's along with sweet potato pie, casserole, and chips, as the theme of the Lower Richland Annual Sweet Potato Festival.

This agri- suburb of Columbia is celebrating the post- Fourth holiday weekend in three locations: The Hopkins Community Park, Hopkins Middle School, and Lower Richland High School.

Sam McGregor enlisted the talents and assistance of his son Johnny, who is on the staff at Clemson. Michael Nigh, a graduate student in the Clemson College of Food Science and Human Nutrition, came up with the winning formula for the Festival

"The recipe is a trade secret," says Sam. "But think vanilla ice cream blended with mashed, cooked sweet potatoes, and crunchy pecans, with a touch of cinnamon and

nutmeg. The word Decadent

comes to mind."

"This is a family festival," according to Della McCullough, who is director of Adult Activities at the Hopkins Park.

"Just look at what's being offered: An arts and crafts show, a carnival for the children with rides and booths, a health fair with consumer education, a barbecue contest, praise singers and dancers. There's something for everyone. No alcohol and plenty of good cooking.

"Admission to the Festival is free, and the food and drinks will be for sale inside."

Blanche Goodson, who is assisting with planning, mentions that on Friday evening, July 6, the Festival will kick off with a Hall of Fame Awards ceremony, followed by a basketball game unlike any you have seen before. It will pit the preachers of the Lower Richland community against their deacons.

Saturday will feature a 3K run, followed by a fashion show with music. At Lower Richland High School, a car show and maybe motorcycles will parade, a mime will entertain, and gospel singers will perform from 4 to 6 pm.

The "Buffalo Soldiers" from Sumter will bring their horses to offer rides for the youngsters, and there will be a James Brown impersonator.

Personnel from the Richland Sheriff's Department and the Richland Fire Department will offer safety demonstrations.

On Sunday, the Educator Gospel Singers will present a play called "Glory Train."

For more information visit www.LRASPF.com.