In The Acres…
By Lynnsey Baker
Director of Communications and Community Engagement, City of Forest Acres
Spring is in the air in Forest Acres, and everyone is ready to get outdoors after the snow this winter – including the Forest Acres Police Department. As warmer evenings return, FAPD is finding new ways to meet residents where they live and keep community connections at the forefront.
In February, the Forest Acres Police Department hosted its first Front Porch Roll Call of 2026 at Temple Beth Shalom, bringing officers into the neighborhood for casual, small-group conversations. These roll calls are held by a street or neighborhood, making it easy for residents to meet officers face-to-face, share concerns, and get to know the people who patrol their area. They take place in the evening during shift change, typically between 6:30 and 7 p.m., and residents can request one by emailing [email protected].
“Community policing really comes down to talking with one another. When we meet people where they live, we build trust and stronger relationships—and that makes Forest Acres safer for everyone.” —FAPD Chief Don Robison
Residents can also stay connected through the Forest Acres Neighborhood Association meeting on March 23rd at 7 p.m. at the Forest Acres Police Department. FANA meets bimonthly, giving neighbors a chance to hear updates on city initiatives and talk directly with local leaders. Chief Robison is always there in person, ready to listen to questions or concerns, along with members of the Forest Acres City Council and a representative from the Richland County Sheriff’s Department.
Spring Happenings in The Acres
Citadel Park & Quinine Hill Park Reopen
Both parks have reopened after Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc with new bench swings and signage. At Citadel Park, you’ll find a new pavilion, improved shading with new trees, and fresh landscaping. At Quinine Hill, a new concrete walking path makes it easy to enjoy a stroll or run outdoors.
Forest Acres Farmers Market
Wednesdays, 2–6 p.m. | Gills Creek Memorial Park
Shop fresh produce, meats, and artisan breads while kids enjoy face painting, princess visits, and superhero engagements. Follow @forestacresfarmsmarket for weekly updates.
Fifth Annual Sweep the Acres
March 28 | 8:30 a.m.–Noon
Lowes Shopping Center
Join a city-wide cleanup organized by Councilman Haskell Kibler and Clark McCarthy. Volunteers get a free T-shirt, cookout, ice cream from Handel’s, and cold brew from Lazy Daisy. Register via @cityofforestacres or forestacres.net.
Forest Acres Classic Baseball Tournament
April 6–9 | A.C. Flora High School
Six top high school baseball teams, including squads from NC and VA, take the field, creating a lively spring break vibe for fans of all ages. Take yourself and loved ones out to the ballpark for some family-friendly fun!
Forest Acres Festival
April 25 | 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
A.C. Flora High School
This free, family-friendly festival features rides, a petting zoo, live entertainment, vendors, and food trucks. FAPD officers are on site all day, connecting with the community. Proceeds benefit the Forest Acres Rotary Club.
Bankhead Smash Cancer Tennis Tournament
April 25–26 | Rockbridge
Serving up support for SCOA! This popular tournament brings players and fans together for an energizing event that champions wellness and community.
Arts in the Acres
April 26 | 2–6 p.m.
Gills Creek Memorial Park
Presented by Town Theatre, with performances by the Tweens Troupe and local elementary schools. Free admission, food trucks on site, and guests are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets and enjoy the show!
Spring brings endless opportunities to step outside, explore your community, connect with neighbors, cheer on local athletes, and enjoy all the ways The Acres comes alive this time of year. And truly, the best part of spring in Forest Acres? The people you meet along the way.
Trenholm Blue Bombers – This team of young female athletes captured the 2025 South Carolina Little League Coach Pitch Softball State Championship in commanding fashion, finishing off a perfect 6–0 tournament run with a decisive 16–1 victory in the title game. At the coach pitch level, a State Championship is the highest honor Little League players can achieve. Congratulations to these incredible girls, their dedicated coaches, and everyone at Trenholm Little League for the countless hours of showing up and supporting our young athletes!
Satchelford Elementary – The Fitness Team won their 5th consecutive Richland One Fitness Bowl for the 3A division. The winning team was led by beloved SF PE Coaches Chris Payne and Shawn Norris, plus many other amazing staffers and volunteers. Fourth Grader Collin Ard also took home the coveted District Miss Fitness trophy for class 3A, and the 7 boys and 6 girls from the team earned spots on the 3A All-District Team!
Brockman Elementary- Fitness Team won its third consecutive Fitness Bowl Title for class 2A. Congratulations to Coaches Linton, Johnson, V. Brown, and Ms. Livingston, and all the Brockman Bears!
A.C. Flora High School- The Lady Falcons tennis team capped a stellar season by winning the Class 4A state championship, showcasing skill and determination throughout postseason play. The A.C Flora competitive cheer squad claimed the Class 4A State Cheer Championship, bringing more state title glory to the Falcons’ program this year. Both teams were honored with resolutions for their accomplishments recently by the Forest Acres City Council.
