Anderson Magazine novdec 15

Anderson andersonmagazine.com November/December 2015

Getting the

Perfect

Family Portrait

Banking 101

Pets are People, too

magazine

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Anderson Magazine • November/December 2015 andersonmagazine.com Publisher/Editor April Cameron Advertising Sales Hannah McCullough Graphic Design Jennifer Walker

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Festival of Trees

Contributing Writers Caroline Anneaux Liz Carey Lisa Marie Carter Pauline Medford Contributing Photographers Angel Ruff Photography Black Truffle Photography Lisa Marie Carter jcImages Life is a Tripp Photography Anderson Magazine is published six times a year.

Advertising Inquiries: Hannah@andersonmagazine.com 864-314-4125

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Editorial Inquiries News@andersonmagazine.com 864-221-8445 Copyright: All contents of this issue ©2015, Anderson Magazine. All rights reserved. No portion of this issue may be reproduced in any manner without prior consent of the publisher. The publishers believe that the information contained in this publication is accurate. However, the information is not warranted, and Anderson Magazine does not assume any liability or responsibility for actual, consequential or incidental damages resulting from inaccurate erroneous information.

Cover Photography by Black Truffle Photography

Anderson Magazine PO Box 3848 Anderson, SC 29622 864.221.8445

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Helping Others Make Memories

16

Meet the Mayors

28

Banking 101

32

Holiday Gift Guide – Local Favorites

40

Embracing Traditions

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Pets are People, Too andersonmagazine.com 3 November/December 2015

Letter from the Editor Wow. It’s hard to believe we are celebrating our one year anniversary at Anderson Magazine!

Our first issue was the November/December issue of 2014, and we could not have done it without the support of this community. From the advertisers to the readers to those who let us distribute our magazine in their places of business, we are so thankful for your support over this past year.

I think this current issue is a great one to present to you after a year of growing, changing and trying to improve For you animal lovers, make sure to read our Pets Are People, Too article. I am a borderline “crazy cat lady,” so I was really excited about this article. You’ll hear heartwarming stories of people who have gone above and beyond for their pets and how pets have influenced their humans’ lives.

A picture perfect moment with Jackson Walker of Walker Animal Hospital and Milly, the Boykin Spaniel owned by Hannah McCullough

We also have an amazing holiday shopping guide from all local stores! Did you know that when you spend $100 at a local business, roughly $68 of those dollars stay in your own community?

If you spend the same at a non-local business (could be a local location of a national chain), only $43 stay in the local community. Online shopping?

Zero. Check out the story that gives ideas for men, women and kids and keeps it right here in our own neighborhood.

And while we’re talking dollars and cents, take a minute to read about the local banking industry. From name changes to location changes to interest rates and more, learn about what’s happening in Anderson County with our financial institutions.

Thanks again for a great first year, Anderson County! I’m looking forward to many more!

~April

y r a s r e v i n n A r a e y 1 y Happ e n i z a g a M n o s r e d n A

andersonmagazine.com 4 November/December 2015

Community

Local Scholarships Change Lives

By Lisa Garrett of Tri County Technical College Receiving an Abney Foundation scholarship was life changing for Laneika Musalini, who entered Tri-County Technical College as an 18-year-old single mother in 1998.

“I couldn’t afford a four-year college, so Tri-County was the only place I applied. It was close to home, and I could work parttime, take care of my son and maintain my grades. But I had goals,” she said.

The plan was to graduate from Tri-County Tech, gain a skill, get a job and pursue a four-year degree. With help from an Abney scholarship, she completed the Office Systems Technology (OST) degree. She also relied on AIM and its Women and Children Succeeding program for assistance with eliminating barriers that existed for her as a single mom.

She joined Clemson University as an administrative assistant and returned to Tri-County Tech’s University Transfer program, taking classes on her lunch hour. Two years later she was promoted.

“I left Tri-County with no student debt.

My OST degree helped to fund the next journey of my education,” said Musalini. “The Abney scholarship led me to so many opportunities.”

Now married and the mother of four, Musalini has continued her education.

She transferred to Anderson University, where she graduated magna cum laude. She earned a master’s degree (with highest honors) from Clemson and began working there as a Grants Manager.

In 2012 she joined Tri-County Tech as Director of Grants. Her son, Antonio, was looking at colleges, and she realized the magnitude of her Abney scholarship.

“The Abney scholarship got me started and allowed me to finish at Tri-County and get to the next step without loans to pay back,” she said.

Antonio embarked on a strategic plan to find scholarships. An honor student, he had nine university acceptance letters and was offered nearly $600,000 in scholarship opportunities. He is attending Clemson, all expenses paid, thanks to a Gates Millennium Scholars program.

“My kids grew up seeing me in school,” Musalini said.

“They knew education had to be important for me to make those sacrifices so they could have a better life. I instilled in

Laneika Musalini

“The Abney scholarship led me to so many opportunities.” them the importance of having goals. The Abney scholarship made a tremendous lifelong difference.”

Musalini says it’s her responsibility to pay it forward.

“After I graduated, I couldn’t give back financially, so I decided to dedicate my time and service to organizations that are important to me, like AIM, because I identify with the single parents they serve,” she said.

Her story was spotlighted at the 2015 Hats Off to Women AIM luncheon. n

andersonmagazine.com 5 November/December 2015

Holiday Ice

A New Tradition for Anderson

By Arlene Young, Downtown and Business Development Director, City of Anderson, Imagine Anderson Leadership Team A tradition is a belief, legend, custom or ritual handed down from generation to generation especially by word of mouth or by practice. Holiday traditions are an important part to building a strong bond between family and our community. They give us a sense of belonging and a way to express what is important to us. They keep the memories of the past alive and help us share them with newer generations.

Some traditions are selecting that perfect Christmas tree, stringing popcorn, or singing a favorite carol. In Anderson, for a very long time, our community holiday tradition has been a Tree Lighting Ceremony and the Christmas Parade.

This year, we are starting a new tradition: Holiday Ice. Yes, an ice skating rink at Carolina Wren Park. The rink will operate from November 20 until January 18. To avoid closing the rink due to warm temperatures, the city has chosen a synthetic ice rink, and, unless you are a professional ice skater, you won’t be able to tell the difference.

The rink was purchased from Ice Rink Engineering and Manufacturing, a worldwide company owned by the Durham family from Greenville, SC. The Durhams will be bringing four professional ice show skaters to Anderson for the grand opening of the new rink at Carolina Wren Park on November 20 at 6 p.m. The skaters are Sean Wirtz from Canada, Kristen Cowan from Spokane, WA, Erica Archambault from Colorado Springs, CO and Jackie Boyd from Greenville, SC. The public is welcome to join in the skating fun at no charge after the professional show ends.

Throughout the regular season, admission is $5 for adults, $3 for children under 12, seniors (55+) and military staff. Admission for a group of 10 adults is $45; children, seniors and military staff is $25.

Remember to explore Downtown Anderson for your holiday gifts, entertainment and great dining. A tradition I hope you have - supporting everything local.

Holiday traditions become an essential aspect of how we celebrate; they add meaning to our celebrations and help bond us to those we love. This year, make Holiday Ice your new tradition!

For more information on the Holiday Ice schedule visit www.downtownanderson.com. n andersonmagazine.com 6 November/December 2015

Happy Holidays from our family to yours!

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November/December 2015

Holiday

Get in the spirit of the season with these great events happening all over our county.

Happenings

Anderson County Farmers Market

The regular Anderson County Farmers Market is open Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 8 am - 1 pm through November 24. 402 N. Murray Avenue, Anderson.

Sweet Dreams Scare House

Indoor haunted attraction with twenty plus rooms of special effects, sound, lighting, and actors. November 6, 7 and 8 doors open at 8 pm until “crowd dies.” Adults $20, Kids 10 and under $10 (pre-order tickets online to get a $2 discount), 2060 Frontage Rd. Anderson.

Holly Jolly Fair - Local artisans, crafters, tempting foods and holiday vendors. Join them and listen to merry music of the holidays, smell the fresh cut trees and scents of the holidays, shop for unique gifts for your loved ones and maybe catch some holiday treats. November 20 - 22. Friday 5 pm – 9 pm, Saturday 10 am – 6 pm and Sunday 1 pm – 5 pm at Anderson Civic Center, 3027 Martin Luther King Blvd., Anderson. Admission is $5 for adults, Seniors over 60 $3, Kids under 12 FREE, Groups of 10 - $3 per person and parking is free.

Mistletoe Market

11th annual Mistletoe Market is Friday, Nov. 6 from 4 pm-7 pm and Saturday, Nov. 7 from 10 am-4 pm. They will have a new lineup of craftspeople and artisans from the area that will make this market better than ever! Start your holiday shopping early or just go and find some of those one-ofa-kind gifts that only local a r t i s a n s can make. Anderson County Museum, 202 East Greenville St., Anderson.

Holiday Ice at Carolina Wren Park in Anderson

Opening November 20.

111 E. Whitner Street, Anderson.

andersonmagazine.com 8 November/December 2015

Festival of Trees

Free public viewing November 11; 3 pm – 8 pm, November 12; 10 am – 8 pm, and November 13; 10 am – 1 pm. The Civic Center of Anderson, 3027 Martin Luther King Blvd.

Anderson.

Tree Lighting in Pendleton November 27 at 6 pm.

Village Green, Pendleton.

Holidays in the Village in Pendleton

Shops are open, vendors, homemade crafts and baked goods are out in The Square. From 10 am to 4 pm. November 28, December 5, 12 and 19. The Square, Pendleton.

Anderson County Farmers Market Holiday Market

More than 40 local vendors will offer unique gifts, holiday decorations, fresh local produce, handmade jewelry, homemade baked goods, hand thrown pottery, hand crafted soaps and lotions and more. Anderson County Farmers Market is covered and ADA accessible. The Holiday Market will be open from 10 am to 2 pm each Saturday, November 28 through December 19. 402 N. Murray Avenue, Anderson.

Tree Lighting in IVA

The Christmas Gift Light Festival The Christmas Gift Light Festival, formerly known as Lights of Hope, is at a new location this year. This local tradition will now be held at the Education & Recycling Center beside the Anderson Civic Center.

Previously located at Darwin Wright Park and limited to 12 acres, the new location offers 45 acres of space with 2.5 miles of roadway. This allows the Christmas Gift Light Festival to offer 3.5 million Christmas lights and a larger Santa village than ever before.

The funds raised from entry fees are returned to the community and given to various charities in Anderson County.

Drive through the festival of lights any night starting the day after Thanksgiving through, and visit Santa and his elves in the Santa Village. With a one-time entry fee for unlimited time in the park, you can enjoy all of the sites and wonders of the Christmas Gift. Enjoy the Marching Soldiers, the Dancing Ballerina, the Nativity Scene, and explore the magical Santa’s Village.

Beginning after Thanksgiving and open every evening at 5:30 p.m. even if it rains. Closes Sunday - Thursday at 10 p.m. and Friday & Saturday at 11 p.m. Admission: $8 per car/pick up; $25 per 15+ Church vans; $35 per bus (commercial coach). * NOTE -There is a $0.50 usage fee for credit cards.

Join the Town of Iva as they ring in the season! Musical performances by local school groups, churches and musicians, dazzling lights and Christmas music. 6:30 pm, December 3 in downtown Iva.

Holiday Walk and Tree Lighting

Christmas Parades

Belton Tree Lighting

Dec 5 Belton 3:45 p.m. cityofbeltonsc.com Dec 5 West Pelzer 3:oo p.m.

Dec 6 City of Anderson 3 p.m. cityofandersonsc.com Dec 12 Iva 2 p.m. www.townofiva.com

Dec 13 Pendleton 3 p.m. www.facebook.com/ pendleton255

Dec 15 Anderson County 3 p.m. www.facebook.com/ AndersonCountyParade Dec 20 Denver Downs Farm 2 p.m. denverdownsfarm.com

Downtown Anderson at 6 pm on December 3.

5:45 on December 5. After the parade head over to visit with Santa, sip some hot chocolate and enjoy roasted marshmallows at the Farmer’s Market. December 5 from 6 pm till 8 pm and again on the 12th and 19th from 5pm-8 pm.

Christmas at Ashtabula

Ashtabula is a charming two-story clapboard house (c.1825) situated on ten acres of open ground and located approximately three miles east of Pendleton on SC Highway 88.

Enjoy festive music, cookies and cider on December 5, 6, 12 and 13. Adults $10, children $5. Ashtabula, 2725 Old Greenville Hwy (SC88), Central.

Candlelight Service at the Iva City Cemetery

6:30 pm. December 8, Park Drive, Iva.

A Toast to the Future in Pendleton

7 pm on December 31. followed by a New Year’s Eve celebration in Cox Hall on The Square, Pendleton.

andersonmagazine.com 9 November/December 2015

Join the Festivities at the

Festival of Trees

By Lisa Marie Carter

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW

Christmas season kicks off in Anderson County with the Festival of Trees, a much-anticipated holiday event that not only brings holiday cheer, but also helps a local non-profit. All funds raised go to help the Foothills Alliance, a non-profit organization providing free, multiple services to sexually abused children and adults in Anderson and Oconee Counties.

This event takes a unique approach to showcasing beautiful Christmas decor. Individuals, businesses, churches, civic groups and other organizations purchase a tree, wreath, swag or centerpiece to decorate in unique and elaborate ways. These items are then unveiled during a preview brunch that also allows you to purchase one of them to enjoy in your home before the holiday.

In early November, these groups, also known as sponsors, will begin decorating their trees. They have their choice of either 4.5’, 6’, or 7.5’ pre-lit floral-quality artificial trees. Decorating is performed at the Civic Center for two days.

On Wednesday, Nov. 11, the Festival of Trees will open at 10 a.m. with an exclusive preview for those who purchase a $30 ticket for the Festival of Trees Preview Brunch. Those attendees will have the first chance to buy one of the trees, wreaths, etc. Following the brunch, the Civic Center is open to the public to view the trees.

On Friday, Nov. 13, the Festival hosts the Champagne and Mistletoe Auction. This elegant event offers patrons the opportunity to bid on any of the trees that didn’t previously sell during the week. n

Wednesday, Nov. 11 • 10 a.m. • $30 per person

PREVIEW BRUNCH

For tickets or more information or if you would like to sponsor, decorate a tree or donate a centerpiece, please call the Foothills Alliance at 864-231-7273 or visit www.foothillsalliance.org.

CHAMPAGNE & MISTLETOE AUCTION

VIEWING OF THE TREES - FREE

Friday, Nov. 13 • 6 p.m. • $45 per person

All activities are held at the Civic Center of Anderson.

Wednesday, Nov. 11 • 3-8 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 12 • 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 13 • 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

andersonmagazine.com 10 November/December 2015

United Way

2015 TOP RATED GIFTS FOR YOUNG CHILDREN

BOOKS

By Lea D’Andrea, United Way of Anderson County Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Chair Now is the time of year we begin to search for that “perfect” gift for our child, grandchild, niece or nephew. We seek out the consumer buying guides to tell us what the “hot picks” are for children’s toys this year. We search the local stores to get these items before they are sold out. Welcome to the hustle and bustle of the holidays! Well, I can make this a bit easier for you. This year’s “hot-picks” for children’s gifts are:

1 2 3

BOOKS: This is a gift that keeps on giving. Unwrapping a book is as good as opening the world for a child. Reading opens minds, stirs the imagination and lets a child learn about the world and possibilities all around them.

A LAP TO READ ON: Once the child has a book, he/she needs an adult to read to them and teach them to read. Adults can model reading, instill the value of education and encourage a child along the way.

BE A SPONSOR Businesses Hosting a Dolly Tree

MORE BOOKS: Okay, reading is the gift that keeps on giving.

Now that the child is hooked on books, they will want more!

As you may guess by now, I am a strong advocate for early reading. Early reading is one of the primary foundations for intellectual growth and development. It is the time in a young child’s life that creates the brain network on which all future learning is built. The home and childcare environment should have lots of talking with children and reading every day. For this to happen, there must be written materials in the home…books are a big part of that collection.

You can give the gift of books not only to your child but to others across Anderson County who may not have easy access to books.

Through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library program, hosted locally by the United Way, you can ensure a child has books at home. For just $30, a child gets a new book sent to the home each month. That’s 12 books a year!

Area businesses have stepped up to help support this effort. “Dolly Trees” have been placed in local shops. You can select a child on the tree to sponsor, fill out the sponsor card and send to the United Way. Or you can simply visit the United Way of Anderson website to give.

Please, during this holiday season, consider giving the gift of reading, the gift of opening the world.

I have a suspicion that I know what next year’s top-rated gift will be. Can you guess? That’s right…books and more books!

If you would like more information or would like to make a gift, please contact Tammie Collins at 864-226-3438 or tammie.collins@ uwandersoncty.com. n

Stop by one of these area shops to select a child on the Dolly Tree to sponsor with a full year’s worth of books.

Maynard’s Home Furnishings both locations South State Bank Greenville Street, Anderson The Fashion Shack Gallery 313 Willow’s Antiques Pip Printing Figs Beanery and Creamery Lee D’Andrea is a life-long proponent of education. She has taught in the public schools, served as coordinator of the Family Literacy program, the Director of the West Market Family Education Center and Superintendent in Pickens County and Anderson 4.

andersonmagazine.com 11 November/December 2015

Helping Others Make Holiday Memories

O

By Caroline Anneaux

peration Magi began in 2003 in the Pendleton United Methodist Church when long-time member, Doug Hursey, and former pastor, Lloyd White, decided they wanted to reach out to children in the Pendleton area who might not have the opportunity, due to financial constraints, to celebrate Christmas in their family homes.

The year the program began, between 10 and 12 families were identified as disadvantaged and were given gifts and food for a complete meal. Skip forward to 2015, and Howard Corbett, current director of the program, says Operation Magi will give Christmas gifts and bags full of groceries to 125 families in need in the Anderson School District 4 area this year.

“Following the original plan created back in 2003, each child is given three gifts just as Jesus was given three gifts from the Magi, a shirt, a toy and a pair of pants are chosen for every child in every family.”

“Participants get a blessing from helping us with this yearly program. Eighteen churches currently help us out, and they cross the lines of race and faith,” says Corbett.

“Operation Magi really teaches kids how a community is able to respond to a need.”

Hundreds of volunteers are the reason this program has grown so much and is so successful year after year.

An incredibly detailed calendar begins on September 1 and goes until mid-December when the gifts and food are passed out to local families in need.

Jackie Corbett is in charge of contacting the guidance counselors at all five schools in the district: Pendleton andersonmagazine.com 12 November/December 2015

Gifts are organized for distribution to famlies in need.

Elementary School, La France Elementary School, Mount Lebanon Elementary School, Riverside Middle School and Pendleton High School. Once families are chosen, Howard Corbett begins the exorbitant task of coordinating all of the churches and purchasing all of the food. Colorful, hand-cut, paper stars are passed out to members of the churches who are in turn asked to purchase gifts according to the information on the stars. Churches also donate money to help cover the cost of the food.

“Following the original plan created back in 2003, each child is given three gifts just as Jesus was given three gifts from the Magi,” says Howard Corbett. “A shirt, a toy and a pair of pants are chosen for every child in every family.”

During the three nights of distribution, Anolyn Watkins and Preston Cox are there with plenty of volunteers to greet the families and walk them through the different stations as they pick up their beautifully wrapped gifts and overflowing bags of groceries. Local Boy Scouts help sort and carry the groceries to the cars. Each bag contains a voucher for a 12-pound turkey, all the sides for a holiday

meal, ingredients for a spaghetti supper and peanut butter and jelly for sandwiches during the holidays. Churches provide Christian coloring and activity books for the children to take home that evening too.

Howard Corbett says Operation Magi would not be possible without the help of the churches, community and BI-LO of Pendleton.

“The managers and employees at BI-LO work with us from September to December to get us the very best sale prices on the food. They help us store pallets of items there until we are ready to pick it up in December. Employees come out and enthusiastically help load our trucks with the food,” Corbett says. “From beginning to end, Pendleton United Methodist just could not do any of this without everyone’s help and encouragement every year.” n If any churches would like to help sponsor a family, donate money for the bags of food and/or offer volunteer help, please call Howard Corbett at (229) 343-4830.

Each year, more families are added and served through this amazing outreach program. It takes a large community of churches to meet the needs of the children and families in Anderson School District 4.

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PEOPLE

KidVenture 2.0 “We all want a safe place for our children to play,”

By Liz Carey After seeing the problems at the KidVenture Park at the Anderson Sports and Entertainment Center, Julia Woodson decided to do something about it.

“I went about six months ago and took my youngest grandchild,” Woodson said. “It was looking really rough.

Then I went again a couple of months ago and saw how really torn down and dangerous it looked. I knew something had to be done.”

Now Woodson, a number of other community members, the Anderson Rotary and Anderson County, are committed to rebuilding the park.

Originally built as a community project, KidVenture is a wooden castle with swings and slides for kids under age 12 to use.

However, over the years, as boards have rotted and nails have begun to pop out, the playground equipment is not only showing signs of wear and tear, but also of misuse.

The volcano atop the castle is now non-compliant with current American with Disabilities Act legislation. The top part of the castle has also become a place for others to hide, leaving behind things children should not be exposed to.

“At first, I just wanted to fix what was wrong,” Woodson said. “But it became clear that we weren’t looking at throwing down some mulch and cleaning up the playground.”

Woodson met with Glenn Brill, director of parks and recreation with Anderson County, to ask what could be done.

Brill said that while the county has budgeted $10,000 a year to cleaning up the area, the increase in responsibilities for the buildings and grounds crews at the Civic Center and the lack of funding left the county with few resources to maintain the park.

Brill suggested Woodson work with the county to address the issue.

The result was “Friends of the Park KidVenture 2.0,” a group that will work to raise money to help replace the park, in cooperation with the county, and to continue to keep the park clean.

KidVenture 2.0 will feature handicapped accessible and more durable equipment.

Brill said the county will work to demolish some of the outdated equipment and take care of the safety issues.

Friends of the Park, in conjunction with the Rotary Club of Anderson, has committed to raising at least $40,000 over the next two years.

During a press conference on September 25, Dr. Bob Austin, president of the Rotary Club of Anderson, started the fund raising by donating $500.

andersonmagazine.com 14 November/December 2015

“You lead by example,” Austin said. “One of my focuses in my practice is the health of the community, and the health of our children. I’m happy to lead this project. It’s not for my children, but it’s for the children of today, and for our future.”

Woodson said that there was more to it.

“We all want a safe place for our children to play,” she said.

“But it’s also a quality of life issue. If we want to continue to attract businesses to the county, their employees need a place for their children to play as well. Without this park, it’s going to be a lose-lose proposition for the county.”

Woodson said long-range plans included not only multiple clean-up days every year, but also perhaps an expansion of the park. The key, though, was keeping an eye on the facility and raising the necessary funds.

Austin said raising the money would take time, but that the result would be worth it.

“Sometimes, with something like this, it’s a marathon, not a sprint,” Austin said.

In addition to a Facebook page – Friends of the Park KidVenture 2.0 – the group is doing what it can to get the word out.

Donations can be sent to Foothills Community Foundation, 907 N. Main Street, Anderson, SC 29621.

Make checks out to Foothills Community Foundation, with the words Anderson Rotary in the memo line to direct donations to KidVenture.

For more information, follow KidVenture 2.0 on Facebook, or email getinfo@andersonparks.org. n

Where everyday is a GREAT day to be a BEAR!

BELTON-HONEA PATH ANDERSON 15 MINUTES CLEMSON 40 MINUTES GREENWOOD 30 MINUTES GREENVILLE 30 MINUTES

ANDERSON SCHOOL DISTRICT 2 The place to raise your family and educate your children, and only a short drive to work andersonmagazine.com 15 November/December 2015

andersonmagazine.com 16 November/December 2015

Anderson County

Map courtesy of Library of Congress, Geography and Map Division

Anderson Belton Honea Path Iva Pendleton Pelzer Starr West Pelzer Williamston

Mayors look to

2016

Throughout Anderson County, area mayors are looking toward the coming year with a number of goals in mind. From repairing roads to tearing down eyesores, they each have big plans on the docket to accomplish in 2016.

By Liz Carey

CITY OF ANDERSON – Terence Roberts

City of Anderson Mayor Terence Roberts said that the city of Anderson has stayed on the right path for the last year, and he hopes it continues in that direction.

Even with the development of Carolina Wren Park, and the artwork throughout downtown, the city is still looking at some added revitalization, he said.

“I’m looking forward to the creation of the Church Street Heritage Project, celebrating the black entrepreneurs in Anderson,” he said. “Construction will begin the first of next year so as not to interfere with the Christmas shopping season.”

The focus of the city, he said, remains on supporting the businesses in the city.

“Years ago in our city, on a Friday night, a couple could be coming down Greenville Street (toward Anderson) and wonder about which restaurant they should choose once they turned right,” he said. “Now they need to decide whether to turn left or right. Those downtown restaurants and all of our local business owners, they’ve taken a risk to go into business. I think we, as a community, have an obligation to support these businesses that make our downtown a place to come to.”

Roberts said there was a push to also expand what is considered to be “downtown” Anderson – spreading north and south along Main Street, as well as east and west along River Street and others.

Another project scheduled to start in 2016 is a bike and pedestrian plan that will ultimately connect Anderson University to Linley Park.

The economic recovery continues to impact the city, Roberts said, with new subdivisions and building projects scheduled to get underway in 2016.

One of the building projects includes 30 homes scheduled to be built behind the Westside Community Center over the next 5 years by Homes of Hope. Called 61 Hills, the subdivision will provide a new neighborhood of affordable housing.

CITY OF ANDERSON

BY THE NUMBERS

17 27,181 40.8 square miles

people reside in the city

andersonmagazine.com 18 November/December 2015

Median Age

BELTON – Wendell Page BELTON

BY THE NUMBERS

3.7 4,252 42.8

square miles

people reside in Belton

Median Age

Belton Mayor Wendell Page said he has lots of things planned for Belton in the coming year – much of it quality of life issues.

The town, he said, is currently in the process of upgrading its recreational facilities to ensure area children have safe and adequate places to play.

He will be working in the coming year to clean up the city through a series of projects. Page said he envisions a few work days where residents will be encouraged to help clean up the town.

But the projects he has in mind aren’t just cosmetic. Page said he is looking to increase participation at the Belton Farmers’ Market, as well as enhance pedestrian safety at the crossroads downtown and residents’ safety in the neighborhoods.

“We’re going to be working with the county to get rid of some of these dilapidated houses,” Page said. “There are a few that we’ll be working on to ensure they’re not a problem for our town or for our residents.”

The city will also be upgrading the sewer system, especially along Stringer Street, to complement the $4 million improvements recently completed.

Page said he anticipates that a couple of businesses will be coming to Belton as well.

Bringing people downtown and providing them with something to do was also on Page’s list of things to accomplish in the coming year.

“We’ll be showing outdoor movies at the park throughout the year,” he said. “We have an inflatable movie screen and we’d like to show a movie every couple of weeks for people to come out and enjoy. At the last one, we had about 160170 people there bringing their kids and grandkids. It was a really fun time.”

Page said the city is discussing the possibility of showing another movie after the Trick or Treat on the Square, an event where merchants provide treats for kids.

Lastly, Page said, the city is discussing adding to the events in Belton by offering a barbecue cook-off similar to their chili cook-off.

“It won’t be a sanctioned event, so it will be open to everyone,” he said. “We want to make sure that amateurs will be able to compete too, so that everyone can come and participate. It’s just another way to provide for our residents and the residents of the county, to give them something to do and look forward to.”

andersonmagazine.com 19 November/December 2015

HONEA PATH – Lollis Meyers

There are a few big developments coming to Honea Path in 2016, Mayor Lollis Meyers said.

City officials hope a nursing home will break ground sometime this year. The development, called Chiquola Mansion, will be a skilled nursing facility with 150 beds. Also, Grace’s Diner, located in downtown Anderson, will open up a second location in Honea Path.

Another development that is still in negotiations is a grocery store, Meyers said. The store would be similar to an Aldi’s and would be located downtown.

More concrete plans are in the works to upgrade the town’s sewer system by putting in pump stations at 35 individual homes in the town.

“We’re going to be putting pump stations in the houses to prevent rain water from coming in from the outside,” he said. “Gradually, we hope to see it go all throughout town.”

Meyers plans to start cleaning up some of the blighted and abandoned houses in Honea Path in 2016 as well.

“We’ve got about 16 houses that we are going to tear down,” he said. “These are houses that the owner’s don’t keep up – most of them are empty.”

It’s not a move Meyers likes to make, he said, but one that is necessary.

“I hate to tear a house down, because when they come down, you’ve just got a lot (of land) there and we lose money on the tax rolls,” he said. “But some of these houses I’ve been working on for eight or nine years.

When they sit abandoned and no one keeps them up, they become a danger and an eyesore for the neighborhood.”

HONEA PATH

BY THE NUMBERS

3.5 3,673 44.7

square miles

people reside in Honea Path

andersonmagazine.com 20 November/December 2015

Median Age

IVA – Bobby Gentry

IVA

BY THE NUMBERS

.9 1,121 41.5 square miles

people reside in Iva

Median Age

In 2016, Mayor Bobby Gentry wants to make Iva a bigger and better place.

Gentry said he would like to see Iva grow with more people and more businesses in the community in the coming year.

“We want to make Iva an attractive location for people in search of a location to live,” Gentry said. “Iva will add a few new businesses. We want more though. We plan to work with extra effort in 2016 to attract more development to Iva.” To accomplish these goals, Gentry said the town would be investing in its neighborhoods by enforcing codes to rid the town of dilapidated houses, enhancing the attractiveness of the town through streetscape projects and providing more events for residents to enjoy.

“We plan to look at adding more events in 2016 to ensure that there is always something going on in Iva,” Gentry said.

The town will also continue to enhance the downtown area by landscaping areas throughout the town to give it character and maintaining the properties owned by the town. Gentry said he hoped the rest of the town would follow the town government’s example. He also said he hoped to see town-wide cleanup and litter free efforts.

The town will also continue its work on infrastructure by building a new water tower. Gentry said the town has worked to replace sewer lines over the years and now will work to stay on top of the infrastructure needs.

And the town will continue to work to ensure the safety of town residents. he said.

“We live in a world of various uncertainties and small towns are not exempt,” Gentry said.

andersonmagazine.com 21 November/December 2015

PENDLETON – Frank Crenshaw Pendleton will finish celebrating the yearlong celebration of its 225th anniversary this New Year’s Eve, but the coming year will hopefully bring a new period of growth and renewal, said Mayor Frank Crenshaw.

Crenshaw said growing the city and working on infrastructure will be an important part of 2016, but not at the expense of the town’s historic, small town charm.

“We have to preserve our assets, and our history is one of those assets we have to acknowledge as an important part of Pendleton’s charm,” Crenshaw said. “We want to preserve the historic character of our town because that’s what makes us unique.”

At the same time, he said, it’s important that the town grow to increase revenues and decrease the tax burden on current residents.

“We have a lot of room to expand, and we will expand anywhere it makes sense,” he said. “But we’re not going to grow just for growth’s sake. It has to make sense and fit into the long-range plan for Pendleton.”

As the town begins to work with their new police department, it will also continue to work with its water and sewer department to rebuild the town’s infrastructure.

“We’ve been working on upgrades along Key Street, Jackson Street and along Hamburg,” Crenshaw said. “We’re always going to be working to upgrade our infrastructure. Like other towns, we’ve got aging pipes in the ground. But it’s not something you can do all at once. We’ll continue to address the areas that need it the most and move on from there.”

The town will also start work on streetscaping and sidewalk installation this year, he said.

Throughout the year, the town will continue to have events like the Spring Jubilee, the Fall Festival, the Art Crawl, the Christmas Market and the car show. Some smaller events, like Jazz on the Green that the town had this summer, will also be planned.

Crenshaw said he thinks the town is well positioned to see controlled growth that can make it an urban destination that people like to visit.

“If we do things right and have good planning, we’ve got some really great stuff going on in Pendleton,” he said.

PENDLETON

BY THE NUMBERS

4 2,964 40 square miles

people reside in Pendleton

andersonmagazine.com 22 November/December 2015

Median Age

PELZER - Steve McGregor

For the town of Pelzer, 2016 will be a fresh start.

In 2015, after a town-wide vote, the town of Pelzer annexed some of the old mill properties into the town.

With the annexations, what started as only four streets and 34 houses, when Mayor Steve McGregor was first elected to council in 1996, has now grown to more than 600 houses.

“Basically, we made the town a whole lot bigger than it was,” McGregor said. “About all I can tell you about 2016 is that we’re essentially starting a new town.”

The first items on the agenda, once the new council is put in place, McGregor said, is to possibly pass some legislation to clean the town up and to get the street lights turned on.

The street lights had been owned and operated by the mill, but since it shut down, the town will try to take over that responsibility. Also, the town will be working on a sewer project and putting in the infrastructure to see that succeed.

The biggest change in the town will be the number of people who vote – and run for office. McGregor said the town has 11 people running for council. No one is running in opposition to McGregor for the mayor’s seat.

It will be a long road, but one the mayor says he’s looking forward to.

“We’re just taking baby steps at this time,” he said.

“The whole town voted for this. We’re looking forward to getting started and for the opportunity this presents.

We’ve taken a town that was small and now is 10 times bigger. It’s going to be a whole lot of work.”

PELZER

BY THE NUMBERS

.2 91 57.4

square miles

people reside in Pelzer

andersonmagazine.com 23 November/December 2015

Median Age

STARR - Ed Sokol

STARR

BY THE NUMBERS

With Starr’s small, family-like community and nearly nonexistent tax revenue, there’s only so much Starr Mayor Ed Sokol said he could do. But, he is making the most of what he can do.

In the coming year, Sokol said, the town of Starr will be looking at quality of life issues.

Improvements to the playground equipment and the walking track, as funds become available, is one focus for 2016.

“We’ll be getting new equipment for the playground and will be looking to install a better lighting system on the walking track,” Sokol said. “We’d also like to install a picnic pavilion near the walking track to give people another place to sit and relax and enjoy the area.”

Through a partnership with the Fresh Water Coast Community Foundation, the town will be looking at better serving the community’s small businesses.

If the town is accepted into the program, the town will be installing computer equipment and high-speed resources for business owners to use. The town would also be working with the Foundation to provide start-up money for entrepreneurs in the area, with hopes of bringing new business into Starr.

The foundation, which serves the counties of Abbeville, McCormick and southern parts of Anderson County served

by West Carolina Telephone, and the town are still in negotiations on those agreements, he said.

But the events and activities – like the Starr Fall Festival (organized by the Starr Athletic Association), the Christmas

1.8 173 47.5

square miles

people reside in Starr

Median Age

Tree Lighting and Christmas Parade and the Starr Fourth of July Celebration would continue, he said. Other events, like a community-wide garage sale, could add to activities in Starr.

“Right now, we’re open to other things for people to do,” he said. “It’s a quality of life issue. We want to encourage community participation as much as we can.”

For example, he said, the town established a farmer’s market next to town hall and encouraged anyone with produce, home cooked items and crafts to come and take advantage of the market. Events like this bring the community together.

“With less than 200 residents in the town, it’s really a big family, and we’d like to keep it that way,” Sokol said. “We’re fortunate that we’re in pretty good shape right now.”

andersonmagazine.com 24 November/December 2015

WEST PELZER – Peggy Paxton

WEST PELZER

BY THE NUMBERS

.5 1,150 37.1

square miles

people reside in West Pelzer

Median Age

After 12-and-a-half years as the mayor of West Pelzer, Peggy Paxton won’t be running again in November.

When tragedy struck her family last year, Paxton said it forced her to reevaluate what was most important to her.

“I love this town, but when my sister’s child died last year, it really made me refocus on my family and my children,” she said. “It was something that made me realize that I need to refocus my priorities.”

In 2003, Paxton said she was attending a city council meeting in West Pelzer and felt that being part of the town’s government was something that she wanted to do.

“It was a really great experience for me,” she said.

“I’m not originally from here, so I felt that I had to get out and meet people and let them get to know me. It was important for me to get out and find out what the people of West Pelzer wanted.”

Over the years, the town has grown and started to rebuild and revitalize.

One of the things Paxton said she is most proud of is rebuilding the water lines and sewer lines in the town.

“When I took office, we were under a consent order from DHEC (the Department of Health and Environmental Control) that no one could tap into our water and sewer lines until we rebuilt them. And we’ve done that,” she said. “Now, we’ve got millions of dollars of work under our ground to make sure we have safe drinking water and an infrastructure to meet the needs of West Pelzer in the future. I’m really proud of that.”

While Paxton said she has no regrets, she said there are some things that she hopes the town accomplishes in the future.

“I wish we had a bigger plan for the future,” she said. “Hopefully, someone else can bring that to the table with a new set of eyes. I don’t regret anything during my time as mayor. Even through the hard times, I enjoyed it. It wasn’t always easy. But hopefully a different set of eyes will get us to the next level.”

The decision to leave office has not been an easy one, she said. Through a lot of prayer and consideration, she said, she made the decision to step down.

“I really love this town. I’m really sad to be leaving, and I really dreaded the decision. But I realize I need to be with my family now,” she said. “I always thought I would always be here for this town. And I will be. Just not as mayor.”

andersonmagazine.com 25 November/December 2015

WILLIAMSTON – Mack Durham Everyday, Mayor Mack Durham has two goals for everything he does as Mayor – to create progressive growth in Williamston and to create progressive improvement of Williamston’s local government.

To that end, for his 2016 goals, Durham has several things he’d like to see done in and around Williamston.

First, he said, he’d like to focus on some gateway projects, like extending walking/biking trails and sidewalks, to enhance the esthetics of the community.

“I believe that you have to increase the number of people visiting and frequenting your downtown,” Durham said.

“They can’t just drive through. We have to get them out walking or biking around our town.”

Another one of Durham’s goals is to have an event in downtown Williamston every month.

“I have worked to increase our downtown foot traffic by offering more events,” he said. “Williamston has gone from about three events per year to offering an event almost every month of the year. This has been a great first step to get people into our downtown.”

Durham said he also plans to start an entrepreneurial development via a Williamston Main Street Challenge, similar to ones in Anderson and Spartanburg. He would also

like to see upscale dining opportunities in the town, as well as the finalization of a major retail project that will provide a local grocery store.

These items all fit into what Durham describes as the first progressive comprehensive plan for Williamston.

“Williamston is in the final steps of creating a Community Master Plan,” he said. “This will be our greatest accomplishment because it is so foundational to changing our community in a progressive way. We have had a master plan in place for years. All towns do because it is required by the State. What makes this plan ‘legitimate’ is that we have engaged the community in the process to make it a community driven plan.”

Finding funding, through grants and efficient spending, is crucial to the town’s success, he said.

“We are in good financial shape,” he said. “The better financial position a town can create, the more opportunities we can put into effect to create a better quality of life for our residents and visitors. It starts with being fiscally responsible on a local level. Other than maximizing the value of local revenues, we need to pursue more grants, grow our hospitality tax through economic development, and engage corporate partners in our community.”

WILLIAMSTON

BY THE NUMBERS

3.7 3,934 33.6

square miles

people reside in Williamston

Median Age

andersonmagazine.com 26 November/December 2015

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andersonmagazine.com 27 November/December 2015

Banking 101 which bank is right for you

By Liz Carey

andersonmagazine.com 28 November/December 2015

T

he first thing many people do when they move to a new area is look for a bank.

But how do you tell what makes one bank better than another, or which bank might be right for you?

Local bankers say it’s all about feeling comfortable where you bank.

While most banks offer the same services, many differ on the fees they charge. In some cases, they may not be able to provide the same services others do. Shop around to make sure you can narrow down which banks provide the services that you need.

But more than that, bankers say, make sure the bank is one where you will feel at home.

For Sheryl McCollum with the Peoples Bank, it’s the bank’s people and their services that are important.

“The people you will be dealing with are extremely important,” McCollum said. “You should ask yourself, ‘Can the bank provide the services I need?’ ‘Is the bank where I am making deposits a local community bank where the funds will most likely be used to make loans in this area rather than benefit a corporation elsewhere such as New York or California?’ Customer service is a very important asset.”

Peoples Bank, she said, offers services that help customers in the community.

“We have identity theft protection on each personal checking account at no additional cost,” McCollum said. “We also have checking accounts for our non-profit organizations. Most community banks outsource complicated IT services with companies that specialize in those services, but the advantage we believe the Peoples Bank has, is people who can help the customer with those services can be easily contacted rather than sent to recorded messages.”

Another possibility you might want to consider is a credit union.

Credit unions differ from banks in that they are non-profit organizations that are designed to help a certain group of people.

“Although banks and credit unions typically offer the same financial services and products, their philosophy and foundation are very different,” said Stephanie Hall with Anderson Federal Credit Union. “Credit unions are notfor-profit financial institutions owned by their account holders, usually referred to as members.

Credit unions are governed by volunteer boards of directors who work to provide all of their members with financial services that are reasonably priced. Banks are governed by a paid board of directors who work to provide Stephanie Hall of Anderson Federal Credit Union

andersonmagazine.com 29 November/December 2015

continued on page 30

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People first.

Community first.

Forever First. firstcitizens.com

bank

LOCAL

continued from page 29

stockholders with a return on their investment.”

Credit unions may also offer some services for people who may not be bankable in other areas, she said.

“Free financial counseling programs are often available at most credit unions. Since credit unions work to help their members succeed financially, increasing financial literacy is at the heart of what we do. These services can range from simple budgeting advice and credit report reviews to something as complex as housing counseling or debt management planning,” Hall said. “Credit unions often develop relationships with local employers to provide dedicated financial assistance to their employees.

For example, if a company is transitioning to mandatory direct deposit of paychecks, credit unions can help employees, even those who normally may have difficulty getting approved, open accounts.”

All of the bankers recommended that anyone interested in opening an account at a local bank, or switching banks, should thoroughly look into what kinds of services the bank or credit union offers, as well as their fee structure.

Ron Marchant, with NBSC in Anderson, said it comes down to location and visibility.

“I think a lot of it has to do with convenience,” Marchant said. “But I think it also has to do with the reputation and visibility of the bank in the community. It has to do with the willingness of the bankers to invest their time in the community.”

Marchant said that he encourages his bankers to be a part of their customer’s community.

“I think you want to see the bankers visible at events and at kids’ sports events. You want to see them in the community,” he said. “I think you need to be able to see the people you do business with out and about where you are. You want to think that the bankers are in business with you to help you succeed and to help the community succeed.”

“Go in and talk to the bankers,” Marchant said. “This could be a relationship that you will have for some time, so you want to make sure you are comfortable with them.

Go in and talk to them. Make sure you feel like this is a place you could establish a relationship with for many years.” n

Ron Marchant of NBSC. andersonmagazine.com 30 November/December 2015

Anderson County

Anderson County Employer, Greg Shore, Honored with ESGR Patriot Award Contributed by Angie Stringer, Director of Communications for Anderson County Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) recently honored Greg Shore, owner of MedShore Ambulance Service with the Patriot Award. During a brief award ceremony, MedShore EMT Shawn Turpin, also a Command Chaplain in the National Guard thanked Shore via video conference, for his consistent support of staff serving in the Guard and Reserve. Turpin is currently stationed at the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base in New Orleans.

According to Turpin, “Greg Shore is a great businessman who is known for his frugalness with his company, but he is never stingy with his people. Greg and Bunny treat staff like members of their family.

I am proud to nominate Greg for the Patriot Award. He is a patriot who respects the military and that explains why so many reservists and guardsmen, like myself, choose to work at MedShore.”

The first in ESGR’s series of awards, the Patriot Award, reflects the efforts made to support Citizen Warriors through a wide-range of measures including flexible schedules, time off prior to and after deployment, caring for families and granting leaves of absence if needed. An employee serving in the National Guard or Reserve, or the spouse of a Guard or Reserve member, may nominate individual supervisors and bosses for support provided directly to the nominating Service member and his or her family.

“Supportive employers are critical to the strength and readiness of our nation’s Guard and Reserve,” said ESGR South Carolina State Chair Eli Wishart. “Many Upstate businesses have signed Statements of Support. We encourage other employers to follow in their footsteps by honoring the job that Service members do to protect our way of life.”

The awards ceremony ended with Shore signing an ESGR Statement of Support, which confirms an employer’s willingness to join other companies across the nation in pledging:

Greg Shore (left) and his wife, Bunny, accept the Patriot Award from ESGR Representative Angie Stringer (right).

We fully recognize, honor and enforce the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-Employment Rights Act (USERRA).

Our managers and supervisors will have the tools they need to effectively manage those employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve.

We appreciate the values, leadership and unique skills service members bring to the workforce and will encourage opportunities to hire Guardsmen, Reservists and Veterans.

We will continually recognize and support our country’s service members and their families in peace, in crises and in war.

More information about ESGR is on www.ESGR.mil. n

ANDERSON COUNTY 864-260-4000 • www.andersoncountysc.org Anderson County Council Members

Tom Allen • Mitchell Cole • Francis Crowder, Sr. Tommy Dunn • Gracie Floyd • Kenneth Waters • Cindy Wilson andersonmagazine.com 31 November/December 2015

holiday gift guide It’s time to give great gifts to the ones you love!

Check out our holiday gift guide from all local stores in Anderson County.

By Lisa Marie Carter

What wine lover wouldn’t love this? Wines and so much more.

The Kitchen Emporium and Gifts, LLC located on Main Street in Anderson. Find them on Facebook.

Cheers to the moonshine & whiskey lover on your list.

Palmetto Distillery – 2 locations W. Benson Street in Anderson and Highway 76 in Pendleton. Find them on Facebook or at www.palmettodistillery.com.

A gift the entire family can enjoy - the gift of travel.

Ionosphere Travel and Tours - located on Main Street in Anderson. Find them at www.ionospheretravel.com.

Dress the diva with a choice of clothes, accessories & more.

NOJ Nineteenth of June Boutique – located at 2 Halter Drive in Piedmont. Find them on Facebook.

andersonmagazine.com 32 November/December 2015

holiday gift guide

for the

home

Crafty creations like these candles or supplies for the creative one on your list like chalk paint and more.

Gallery 313 – located on Main Street in Anderson. Find them on Facebook or gallery313.net. a, h

a b

c

Sweets to sample or to ship. Perfect for the out-of-town list The Sweetery – located on E. Greenville Street in Anderson.

Find them on Facebook or www.thesweetery.com. b Make things a little spicy for the foodies on your list.

Spice of Life – located on Clemson Blvd. in Anderson. Find them on Facebook or www.hotspiceoflife.com. c Something for the holiday lover.

Southern Scents & Collectibles – Open again for the holiday season - located on N. Highway 81 in Anderson. Find them on Facebook. e, i

e d

A unique gift for the person who has everything preserve those old recipes - laser engraved onto a cutting board.

JW Gifts - www.jwgifts.com or at facebook.com/jwgifts. f Add a splash of flavor.

Red Moose Emporium – located on Main Street in Anderson. Find them on Facebook or www.redmooseemporium.com. g

h g f i

andersonmagazine.com 33 November/December 2015

PEOPLE

holiday gift guide

for the

ladies a b From fun to formal clothing and accessories and more for the Fashionista on your list.

Village Boutique – located on Main Street in Pendleton.

Find them on Facebook. a b c f i

c

d e

Dress the diva on your list with a choice of clothes, accessories and more.

NOJ Nineteenth of June Boutique – located at 2 Halter Drive in Piedmont. Find them on Facebook. j h Spoil that special lady with some sparkle.

Score’s Jewelers – located on Station Drive in Anderson.

Find them on Facebook or scoresdiamondjewelers.com. d Pamper the special person in your life with some luxiorious lotions, oils and more.

Gallery 313 – located on Main Street in Anderson.

Find them on Facebook or gallery313.net. e

f

Over the river and through the woods…cover the outdoor enthusiast on your list.

Grady’s Great Outdoors – located on Clemson Blvd. in Anderson. Find them on Facebook or gradysoutdoors.com. g

j

h

i

g

h andersonmagazine.com 34 November/December 2015

holiday gift guide

for the

a

men

In the “spirit” of the season this will please most on your list with several seasonal whiskeys.

Six & Twenty Distillery – located on Highway 153 in Powdersville.

Find them on Facebook or www.sixandtwentydistillery.com. a Let us cut to the chase - is there a “woodsy” type on your list?

Grady’s Great Outdoors – located on Clemson Blvd. in Anderson.

Find them on Facebook or www.gradysoutdoors.com. b

b

Isn’t it “time” to show that special guy how you cherish the time you have with him?

Score’s Jewelers – located on Station Drive in Anderson. Find them on Facebook or scoresdiamondjewelers.com. c

c d

This “smokin’ hot” gift will sure light up their eyes.

Havana Through The Door – located on N. McDuffie Street in Anderson. Find them at havanathroughthedoor.com. d Some alchohol free options for the moonshine lover.

Palmetto Distillery – 2 locations W. Benson Street in Anderson and Highway 76 in Pendleton. Find them on Facebook or www.palmettodistillery.com. e

e

andersonmagazine.com 35 November/December 2015

holiday gift guide

for your

pets

a

Picture the possibilities for the pet lover; pictures, cards and more.

Lotus Designs Pet Portraits – www.lotusdesignssc.com a Have your four legged friends and family members barking with joy at any of these local goodies.

Molly & Me Dog Bakery and Grooming – 3 locations, Main Street in Anderson, Greenville Street in Anderson and in Iva. Find them on Facebook. b c d

b

c d

shop local this holiday season andersonmagazine.com 36 November/December 2015

holiday gift guide

for the

kids

a

For the little fashion bug in your life.

Girls Go There – located on Civic Center Blvd. in Anderson. Find them on Facebook or shop.girlsgothere.com. a

Get the young outdoor enthusiast dressed and ready.

Grady’s Great Outdoors – located on Clemson Blvd. in Anderson.

Find them on Facebook or www.gradysoutdoors.com. b e No need to be puzzled by what to get the little ones on your list.

Snicklefritz Stuff N’ Such – located on E. Greenville Street, Anderson.

Find them on Facebook. c d

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e andersonmagazine.com 37 November/December 2015

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andersonmagazine.com 38 November/December 2015

Holiday Shopping Has Never Been More Fun

By Caroline Anneaux The Holly Jolly Holiday Fair is coming to the Anderson Civic Center for its fifth consecutive year on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, November 20-22.

Holiday shoppers will not want to miss one of the best and biggest holiday fairs in the Upstate. Many of the 150 vendors will sell beautiful, handmade items you will not find in retail stores.

“Christmas is my favorite time of the year,” says Kim Kelley, owner of the annual event. “I love that our Holiday Fair helps kick off the season and gives families and friends an opportunity to spend a few hours of quality time together. We play Christmas music, offer back-to-back demonstrations and entertainment on the stage, and of course we have scheduled visits all weekend long with Santa and Mrs. Claus.”

People in Anderson and the surrounding communities look forward to this special holiday event every year. Generations of families come in together to browse and shop for gifts, watch children perform on stage, sample delicious food items, see Santa and make memories together.

“I just absolutely love Kim’s Holiday Fair and cannot wait for it to arrive each year,” says Cindy Garrett, who drives from Six Mile to shop with her family. “It is a wonderful place to find unique gifts for everyone on my gift list, and I always shop for myself there too!”

On Friday night, shoppers will enjoy special vendor demonstrations, sample delicious food items and listen to live music. The first 500 shoppers to arrive will also receive a reusable shopping bag. Shoppers may want to take a fun picture in the holiday photo booth, too!

Each year, the Holly Jolly Holiday Fair gets bigger and better. This year, more than 10,000 shoppers are expected to walk through the doors to search for the perfect gift for everyone on their list. The local crafters will have an amazing selection of handmade items to choose from: metal signs, holiday décor, gourmet foods, original jewelry, hand-knitted scarves and more.

Bring your shopping list and find a gift that makes an impression. n

Buy handmade. Buy local.

November 20-22 • Civic Center of Anderson Friday 5-9pm • Saturday 10-6pm • Sunday 1-5pm andersonmagazine.com 39 November/December 2015

Embracing All Holiday Traditions

By Caroline Anneaux

This time of year has special meaning to families of all different shapes, sizes, races and religions. Luckily, Anderson County has a welcoming community to help each person celebrate the holidays and embrace their traditions.

Elaine and Bill Epstein are members of Temple B’Nai Israel of Anderson. The small, but very beautiful temple blends in with the neighborhood homes surrounding it, and Jewish families from Anderson have attended services there since the opening of the temple in 1948.

The Epsteins joined the congregation in 1950, and all four children were raised at Temple B’Nai Israel.

Holiday celebrations are still a significant part of the Epstein’s lives despite the fact that their children are grown and no longer go with them to services.

“Our family and temple celebrate Chanukah every year during the month of December,” says Elaine. “Although Chanukah is not typically considered a religious ceremony because it is not mentioned in the Scriptures, we always celebrate this joyous occasion.”

Chanukah, known as the Festival of Lights, is the celebration of the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. Although Judah Maccabee and his four brothers drove the Greeks out of Judea, this is not the cause for celebration.

Jewish people do not celebrate wins or defeats, because someone always loses; and in war, many lives are lost during the battles.

Instead, they celebrate the miracle that the oil, intended to burn one day, lasted eight days until more oil was found to replenish it. So, the lighting of the menorah represents the miracle of keeping the eternal lamp burning.

When Elaine was a little girl, her great-grandmother would give all of the children By one dollar toCarter represent Lisa Marie Chanukah gelt; a traditional coin minted by the Hasmoneans after the defeat of the Greeks. Over the years, it has become very popular to give and receive gold-foil covered chocolates during Chanukah. The children use the chocolate coins when playing the game, Dreidel.

“Chanukah is a very happy holiday for our family,” says Elaine. “Bill and I really enjoy getting everyone together. Eating a big meal with all of the kids and grandkids and watching them open lots and lots of gifts is really fun for all of us.”

The Saturday night that falls during Chanukah is reserved for the adults to celebrate together.

Each year, someone offers to host this get together in their home. The hostess organizes everyone to ensure there are

Chanukah celebrations include family, friends, gifts and food. andersonmagazine.com 40 November/December 2015

plenty of great dishes to round out a full meal. Potato latkes are a must-have at this event, too. They also do a Chinese auction, where they swap gifts with each other.

“We always enjoy the Chinese auction during our Chanukah celebration every year,” says Elaine. “People really get into this, and there is a lot of laughter and even swapping gifts after it is over. It is just a fun night for all of our adult friends.”

Reverend Aki Shigemi and his wife, Yoko, moved to Anderson 18 years ago and joined Boulevard Baptist Church. He is currently the Director of International Ministry and Pastor to Japanese Christian Fellowship. Since his mid-twenties, Aki Shigemi has celebrated a traditional Baptist Christmas. The Christmas holidays are special to Reverend Shigemi, because it is a celebration of Christ’s birth.

“My wife, son Isaac and I follow the ways of the members of Boulevard Baptist Church for the Christmas holidays,” says Reverend Shigemi. “We attend services, enjoy holiday music and even enjoy the good Southern food that families from Anderson eat.”

Boulevard Baptist Church celebrates Christmas, the birth of Jesus, on December 25. Members of the congregation are invited to a special Christmas Eve service at 8 p.m. Children are encouraged to wear their pajamas because of the late hour.

About one to two weeks before Christmas, Boulevard Baptist Church invites the community to a special Christmas service where the first hour is delivered in Japanese and the second hour is all in English. Approximately 20 – 25 Japanese and 15 Americans join them each year. After the two-hour service, a traditional Japanese meal is served and the participants enjoy a time of fellowship together.

Chef Fukuhara of Nami Asian Bistro at Portman Marina prepares most of the meal while other dishes are made by Japanese members of the Church to share among the group.

Another very important holiday that Reverend Shigemi and his family celebrate this time of the year is the Chinese New Year. On December 29, they begin a six-day celebration with a very special meal including rice cakes (mochi). Traditionally in Japan, the rice cakes are made by the women before December 29 and eaten for six days. It is a time for the women to have a break from cooking, and the rice cakes will feed everyone for almost a week.

“Now that we live in the United States, I share the cooking with my wife,” says Reverend Shigemi. “I really love rice cakes, and I am the one who usually makes them for our celebrations.”

As a Japanese-American and a Baptist Minister, Reverend Shigemi is excited to share the Gospel with others in the Anderson community at Christmastime and throughout the rest of the year. As a newly ordained minister, he presides

continued on page 42

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andersonmagazine.com 41 November/December 2015

continued from page 41

over the Japanese services held the 2nd Sunday of every month at 3 p.m. These services are held in Japanese instead of English. Church members of the Japanese-American community are welcome to join in all of the services and traditional festivities that Boulevard Baptist Church offers.

Candle Lighting

Father David Randolph and his wife, Betty, are members of Christ the Savior Antiochian Orthodox Church, a small yet very active parish, on North Fant Street in Anderson. Father Randolph has presided over this parish since 1999 and has plenty of holiday traditions to share.

The Christmas holidays begin on November 15, when members of the congregation are urged to go on a complete fast for 40 days. They abstain from meat, dairy, foods cooked in oil and alcohol for the 40 days leading up to December 25.

“This time of fasting purifies our bodies and minds,” says Father Randolph. “As we fast for 40 days, we are better able

to focus on our prayers and remember that God came to this earth to see us so we may rise with Him one day.”

Throughout the fasting period, more services are offered at the church. Members are encouraged to truly evaluate their own lives and how they live as Christians. The focus is on prayer and not food during this very special season.

On December 6, Father Randolph will gather the children in the church and read the story of St. Nicholas to them. Christ the Savior believes in acknowledging the legend of Santa, he said. However, the children are taught about the dowry of giving, rather than receiving. This lesson

Father David Randolph reinforces why the members of the church donate willingly to the non-profit groups in the area.

“In Paul’s Letter to the Ephesians, he tells us we are saved not of our works but for works and that includes loving with mercy and growing into the likeness of God,” says Father Randolph. “We cannot do this without the Holy Spirit within us.”

On Christmas Eve at 10 p.m., a traditional church service begins in the dark with only candles to give off light. This is done to remind the congregation what their lives would be like if Christ had not come to Earth. Little children in attendance may be put to sleep on pallets close to where the parents sit by this time of the evening. Hymns are chanted in harmony, and the service ends with Holy Communion.

After the evening celebration on Christmas Eve/Christmas Day, the youngest walking child at the church will go with Father Randolph to place baby Jesus in the cradle. Baby Jesus is not placed in the manger scene until after midnight on December 25, where He will remain until January 6.

After fasting 40 days, it is finally time to eat. Even though Father Randolph jokes around earlier in the week and tells the congregation vegetables are not allowed, he is happy for all of the food they prepare. The members eat, drink and enjoy fellowship well into the night. Normally it is close to 3:30 a.m. when the doors of the church finally close after the last member leaves. andersonmagazine.com 42 November/December 2015

January 6 is the day Christians believe Jesus was baptized.

So, on this day, a special service is held at Christ the Savior each year. The baptismal font is filled and blessed. Little vials of water are taken from the font and sent home with each family. Father Randolph visits every family home and blesses the home with the holy water. In turn, the families provide food and drink for him. And, thus a new year begins for the members of Christ the Savior and the Randolph family.

Karri and David Strathern are members of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Anderson. They are raising their three daughters in the Catholic faith. Francesca, Luciana and Domenica all attend private Catholic schools in the local area. This family, like others with young children, has plenty of holiday celebrations throughout the Christmas season.

Each year around Thanksgiving, the family begins decorating for the holidays. They pick a live Christmas tree every year for the family tree they display in the main area of their house.

The girls have so many homemade ornaments, they put their own tree up in their playroom and decorate it however they like.

“I also have a little tree I decorate with beautiful silver ornaments,” says Karri The Strathern Children Strathern. “I started ordering them the year I got married, and I continue that tradition every year.”

The family displays a nativity in their home for the Christmas season, but Baby Jesus is absent from the scene until Christmas morning. Because the Stratherns celebrate the Twelve Days of Christmas, their holiday decorations remain in the house until the Epiphany celebration on January 6; the day they believe the wise men brought gifts to Baby Jesus and revealed his presence to the world.

The Stratherns go to Mass on Christmas Eve every year, and they go to the earlier service their church has for families with younger children. Each year, depending on the Priest at St. Joseph’s, there is a special part during Mass involving the children. In recent years, children have dressed up and participated in a live nativity scene, performed in a children’s choir and made a birthday cake for Jesus. Last year, Santa Claus called the church during Mass to give the children a special Christmas message.

After Mass, the Stratherns host a big Christmas Eve party in their home. They have plenty of their church friends over and make sure they invite all of the transplanted Catholics,

Live nativity scene who live too far from their own families, to come to the celebration too. The meal on Christmas Eve is a homemade Italian meal that Karri Strathern’s mother, Karen DeCarolo, helps out with. Homemade ravioli is one of the favorite dishes that night.

The Christmas holidays officially end on January 6 for them, because they celebrate the 12 Days of Christmas and wait to take the decorations down until the Epiphany is celebrated. Items are collected from around the house on January 7 and put away for another year. n

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Photo courtesy of Life is a Tripp

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Stop by and see us soon!

Management Team: (left to right) John Hill, Maintenance Director Linda Goldstein, Administrative Assistant Christy Tripp, Sales & Marketing Director Mandy Beal, Executive Director Jerri McConnell, Program Director Call Christy Tripp today to schedule a visit, and be sure to ask about their all day dining menu!

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Pumpkin Spice EVERYTHING

Now is the season for all things pumpkin spice! Pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin spice donuts, pumpkin spice coffee creamer. It is everywhere! I’ve seen pumpkin spice cereal, pumpkin spice Peeps, pumpkin spice Pop Tarts. Create your own little pumpkin spice heaven with this delicious dip!

FALL PUMPKIN DIP 1. Mix pumpkin, pudding mix, cool whip, and pumpkin pie spice together (by hand) in a very large bowl.

2. Chill for several hours before serving. Meanwhile, cut top of pumpkin, clean it out and prepare it to hold the dip.

3. Spoon dip inside the pumpkin. Sprinkle with cinnamon, and serve with fresh apples slices, vanilla wafers or ginger snaps.

andersonmagazine.com 44 November/December 2015

1 - 15 oz can of pumpkin 1 - 5 oz box of instant vanilla pudding {just the powder, don’t make the pudding} 1- 16 oz container of cool whip {low fat} 1- small pumpkin ½ tbl Pumpkin Pie Spice ½ tbl Cinnamon

AnMed Health

Cool weather means proper warm-up for fall activities The outdoors beckons when the hot humid days of summer fade away. It’s a good time for exercising and yard work without enduring the heat, but Greg Winburn of AnMed Health Evolve says hidden risks may be lurking in the relative comfort of the weather.

“Exercise is easier in the cooler weather, and sometimes people don’t realize how hard their bodies are working,” said Winburn, a physical therapist who has worked with scholarship athletes across the state. “People forget about hydration in cooler months because they don’t feel the heat, and they don’t realize they need the proper clothing to wick away sweat.”

Cooler weather means decreased blood flow, which can cause muscles to tighten up. Combine that with a lower fluid intake, which means the muscles aren’t lubricated, and people who enjoy the outdoors can set themselves up for unexpected injury.

Whether preparing for a 5K or raking fall leaves, Winburn and Dr. Charles Edsall, a former Olympic sprinter, recommend a dynamic warm up first. They say the old static method of stretching for a few minutes before heading off to exercise can actually be worse for your muscles.

“You let a sports car warm up for a few minutes before you start pushing it,” says Edsall, who is fellowship trained in sports medicine. “It’s the same with the human body.”

Athletes such as runners use dynamic stretches to slowly increase their muscle activity to a full range of motion.

Winburn recommends starting while still inside.

Slowly move your arms and legs through their available range of motion, gently increasing speed, which provides a gentle active stretch, preparing the muscles for work.

Dr. Edsall says it’s important to give your entire body time to reach a workout temperature, and to remember that tendons and ligaments need time to be ready for a workout, just as muscles do.

These same principles apply to other physical activities, too. Raking leaves or trimming hedges may use muscles that haven’t been pushed lately, he said, so give the back and shoulders time to loosen up – again through dynamic stretching – before pushing them beyond normal levels of activity. Again, he says, be sure to drink plenty of fluids.

AnMed Health Evolve offers medically-supervised training and care for athletes and non-athletes seeking to achieve goals for physical activity while preventing injury.

Evolve includes a gait analysis service, in which Dr. Edsall evaluates natural walking and running patterns in order to recommend a regimen and strategy to overcome and prevent injuries.

Evolve’s physical therapist works with patients to both prevent injuries and treat sports and non-sports injuries and conditions such as sprains, strains, tendonitis, bursitis, joint pain and work-related injuries.

AnMed Health Evolve is at 1926 McConnell Springs Road in Anderson and can be reached at 864-512-1196.

Patients do not need a referral to make an appointment with Dr. Edsall, although a referral is required for physical therapy. n

Greg Winburn of AnMed Health Evolve

andersonmagazine.com 45 November/December 2015

Dr. Charles Edsall

PEOPLE

It’s Time to UNPLUG

interesting stats

Before you read any further, take a look around you.

Whether you’re at a coffee shop, home, school or restaurant - just look at the people around you. There is a good chance that most of the people around you are on their phone or device of some sort. Many may even be sitting together at the same table or same sofa, and yet they are on their devices rather than interacting with the group they are with.

I have noticed more and more people have become more involved with their devices than the person(s) they are with or the experience they are partaking in. I admit I am guilty as well - checking my email, lurking on Facebook, posting that picture I just took to Instagram for all my friends to see.

We have forgotten how to be “in the moment.”

I recently experienced a prime example of not being “in the moment” while at the opening game for South Carolina.

The television cameras were scanning people in the stands

84% of cell phone users claim they could not go a single day without their device.

By Lisa Marie Carter

to show on the big screen, and a large majority of the people they filmed weren’t even aware they were on the screen!

Their faces were buried in their phones.

Phones these days aren’t just phones; they are your camera, a connection to anything and everything at anytime.

And though this is a great convenience to have it’s also become a deterrent to socializing face-to-face. This is not only affecting and changing socialization in society, but it is having a huge affect on families.

Jenny S. Radesky, a developmental pediatrician at the Boston Medical Center, who studied parent-child interaction at fast food restaurants, found that more than 70 percent of the adults used their phones during the meal. A recent study shows 54 percent of kids think their parents check their devices too often. And 32 percent say they feel “unimportant” when their parents get distracted by their phones. n

67% of cell phone owners check their phone for messages, alerts, or calls — even when they don’t notice their phone ringing or vibrating.

Studies indicate some mobile device owners check their devices every

6.5 minutes

andersonmagazine.com 46 November/December 2015

88% of U.S. consumers use mobile devices as a second screen even while watching television.

TIPS TO UNPLUG your phone on silent. Then you can decide when 1 Keep you engage with your phone. You check it when you want, rather than hearing the ring or feel the vibration of notifications.

Anderson Fiv

off notification badges. If you don’t feel comfort2 Turn able keeping it on silent, turn off the notifications on

your phone so you aren’t getting the constant ding of emails, social media notifications, etc.

it off your person. Try leaving it in another room 3 Get when you get home or maybe in your car when going out to eat.

areas and times that are “No Phone Zones.” Perhaps 4 Set the dinner table, or the first hour of every morning, or a weekend day might work for your family. Big or small, try designating some time or a place as tech free.

posting and live “in the moment.” Of course 5 Postpone you want to share with your friends the first touchdown

your son made in his football debut, how your daughter nailed that basket and the gorgeous day at the beach, but why not take the picture and post it later? Try posting when your day is over or first thing the next morning. Your friends will still appreciate that picture of the sunset a few hours later.

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manners back. This may sound obvious, but it is 6 Bring often forgotten. There is nothing more annoying than

being out in public and having no choice but to hear one side of someone’s conversation – everyone does not need or want to hear what Betty said to Mark last night.

Take your call and your business outside of the business you are in. Be courteous and put the phone away for meetings, meals, and while being waited on anywhere (either at a coffee shop, takeout counter, restaurant, checkout, etc). Plain and simple, it’s rude not to.

Unplug and interact – you may be surprised at what you are missing!

Almost half of cell owners have slept with their phone next to their bed because they wanted to make sure they didn’t miss any calls.

1/2

Traditional TV viewing eats up over six days

(144 hours, 54 minutes) worth of time per month.

Some researchers have begun labeling “cell phone checking” as the new yawn because of its contagious nature.

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andersonmagazine.com 47 November/December 2015

Shopping & Services

Holiday Hair

going to new lengths

by Lisa Marie Carter

W

ith so many options when it comes to your hairstyles, adding another one may seem a bit too “hairy” for some, but the trend of hair extensions is “growing” by leaps and bounds (excuse the puns).

I decided to talk to Gina Gauthier, owner of Moxie Hair Studio, to find out a bit more about hair extensions and to try them first hand. Though they can be added in several ways – fusion, micro link, sew-in, clip-in and tape-in – and in different lengths and color, we found that no matter your preference, there are a few things to keep in mind.

If you want to add extensions, your hair should be on the slightly long side with layers.

“It is true that long hair is the easiest to work with when applying extensions, but almost any hair type or style can be blended to look natural with extensions. It will require a little bit more finesse and creativity from the stylist,” said Gauthier.

Consider your budget as well.

You will have to purchase the extensions, which can range from $100 to $200 “per pack,” and you may need at least two packs. There is also a cost for the stylist to add them into your hair, which can add another $100 or more. Some extensions, like the brand Hotheads, have to be removed and replaced when your natural hair grows. This potentially needs to be done every five to six weeks. And remember, these prices are just an average for our area – prices may vary depending on your location and salon.

I run every day and always wear my hair in a ponytail, so I was concerned the extensions would show when I pulled my hair up. Gauthier addressed this concern by adjusting where the extensions were attached. You will want to let your stylist know if you wear your hair up often.

Gauthier offered me a few tips for maintaining my new locks. “Take good care of your tape-in extensions by avoiding tangles. Gently brush hair throughout the day and tie your hair in a ponytail before lying down in bed at night. It’s also important to avoid products that contain alcohol as this will break down the adhesive and cause extensions to come loose,” she said.

Another tip is to keep the ends of the hair well conditioned. They do tend to get a frayed look, so you may need to be sure your flat iron or any other styling tools are in good working order.

Finally, as your hair grows, the extensions grow out as well. At that point you can have them reapplied immediately, or you can actually save the extensions for a later time when you are craving that longer hair again. Extensions such as the Hotheads tape-in kind can be re-applied up to three times.

Clearly, hair extensions can take your style to new lengths for the New Year. n

before

after

andersonmagazine.com 48 November/December 2015

2 Word 2 Live By

PEOPLE

“You can pick up this book, and in just five minutes, glean inspiration and motivation for you and your family that will fuel your day.”

By Caroline Anneaux Mark Madden, a life-long resident of Anderson, is the author of a new inspirational book, “2 Words 2 Live By.” Two years ago, Madden took on the task of writing the book. He started out believing he would write a great American novel, but quickly realized he had some important life lessons to share instead. After two years of hard work and dedication, his book “2 Words 2 Live By” is finally complete.

Short chapters, in a very easy-to-read format that appeals to adult readers, are what make this book perfect for bedtime reading, carpool line waiting or sitting by the pool on vacation.

“Chapter titles such as Never Quit, Have Manners and Encourage Someone are just a few of the really amazingly simple, yet necessary objectives to living a great life,” says Madden.

Madden shares appropriate quotes and personal stories in each chapter to give the reader a sense of what each of these two word challenges can do for them if they take the time to apply them to their own lives.

“You can pick up this book, and in just five minutes, glean inspiration and motivation for you and your family that will fuel your day,” he says.

Madden knew the minute he began writing “2 Words 2 Live By” that he wanted David Locke, of Locke Design Omnimedia, to be the graphic designer for the book. “David is one of the most talented people I know,”

says Madden “He and I have been friends since childhood, and I cannot imagine working on this book with anyone except him.”

To get your own copy of the book Madden wrote and Locke designed, check out www. twowordsbook.com for links to on-line bookstores. Propp Drugs and Snicklefritz carry copies as well. They will also hold a book signing at Snicklefritz from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 14. n

andersonmagazine.com 49 November/December 2015

PEOPLE

Hunter, Bogey and Moose Valerie Mattingly with “her boys.”

Pets are People, too

by Liz Carey

For some Anderson residents, pets are more than animal companions, they’re part of the family.

The change, says veterinarian Jackson Walker of Walker Animal Hospital in Anderson, comes from because we let our pets come inside and live with us.

“They live in our homes, they eat with us, they sometimes sleep with us, they become a part of our family,” Walker said. “It wasn’t that way 30 or 40 years ago, but now those norms have changed and we are more comfortable with them being a part of our lives.”

But when they become a part of the family, their care changes as well. More and more, Walker said, he’s seeing people who will go the extra mile to care for their pets.

“I’ve done surgery to remove cancers that we wouldn’t have done 30 or 40 years ago,” he said. “I’ve done knee surgeries and repaired torn ACL muscles. I’ve treated arthritis and kidney failure and congestive heart failure.

People are willing to forego eating out two or three times a week in order to ensure their pet has the care they deserve. They’re willing to make those sacrifices because the pet has become one of the family.”

Valerie Mattingly, a nurse practitioner here in Anderson, said she saw her three dogs – Hunter, Bogey and Moose – as her children. It was a no-brainer for her to provide chemotherapy and other treatments for them when the three dogs were all diagnosed with cancer within the scope of one year.

“I wasn’t going to let them suffer,” Mattingly said. “I don’t have children, and they are my family. I take in animals that I feel like I can help. If that means spending my financial resources to help them, that is what I have decided I’m going to do.”

With the help of veterinarians at Magnolia Animal Hospital and Upstate Veterinary Clinic, she was able

andersonmagazine.com 50 November/December 2015

Health & Happiness to help the dogs to recover some, but also to make the decision to put them to sleep when they got to a point where there were no other options. The love one gets from a dog, she said, is unconditional.

“Children’s love isn’t always unconditional,” she said.

“But for me, my dogs love me without conditions. They are there for me and they seem to understand that I will always be there for them.”

In his practice, Walker says that sometimes pets become the only companion some of his older patients have.

“Whether it’s a senior who has a pet that is their constant companion, or someone who has gone through a divorce, that dog’s healthcare becomes more important, because it is tied to the well-being of its owner,” Walker said. “A lot of them are worried about what happens if they die first, who is going to take care of their pet. I know I’m in at least 10 wills, because I tell them not to worry about it and to leave the pet to me so I can find it a home.”

There’s a pay off to having a pet as well. Walker said in some instances, like in the case of his brother, having a pet makes someone more responsible, more calm and more grounded.

Rescuing an animal helps not only the animal, but also the owner.

For Diana Vossbrink, rescuing an alley cat from Church Street downtown changed her as well as him.

Vossbrink now takes care of Sugar Ray, a cat who had previously lived in the storm drain outside of Viva! il Vino in downtown Anderson.

“He lived there for months and started to become more tame as Sugar Ray time went by,” Vossbrink said.

“We were worried that he would get run over by one of the cars going down the street or something, so I promised if they caught the cat, I would take it and give it a home.”

After months of trying, rescuers were able to lure Sugar Ray in and give him to Vossbrink. continued on page 52

Rescue Your New Best Friend Today!

When you’re ready to add to your family, check out local adoption and rescue agencies for a furry friend!

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andersonmagazine.com 51 November/December 2015

continued from page 51

“At first, he found his way under my bed and wouldn’t come out,” she said.

“Everyday I would spend 15-20 minutes with my head on the floor talking to him. Then one night, I was resting my hand on the floor near him and he butted his head against my hand. Something clicked in him and me. I had to teach him everything. He literally didn’t know how to sit on someone’s lap. I have had so many cats and so many dogs, but there’s something so special about him and our relationship together.”

Pets fill needs we sometimes don’t even know we have, she said.

In other cases, the pet helps to save its owners.

Shayna Hollander, owner of Viva! Il Vino, said that her family dog might be the reason her brothers are alive today.

When she was a child, she said, her older brothers, David and Robert, were playing in the yard in their Martinsville, Virginia home, when the family dog started barking.

“My mother went out into the yard and there wasn’t anyone there or any reason why the dog should be barking, but it just wouldn’t stop,” Hollander said.

“Finally, my mother took the dog and the boys into the house and the dog stopped barking. About a minute later, a tractor trailer ran through the front yard where the boys had been playing.”

Walker said a dog’s instinct is to protect its master. Whether that comes in the form of detecting an epileptic seizure before it happens, or, as was the case of one of his clients in his waiting room, signaling to his diabetic master that his blood sugar was low.

“They give us a love that we just can’t replace,” Walker said. “I have a poodle that has three legs and is 5-years-old. I never thought that I would ever love a pet like that, but it has become a part of our family.

Every day, I hear a lot of touching stories about people and their pets. Lots of days, it’s hard not to cry. But those pets are there for us, and it’s up to us, as their masters, to be there and give them the best care that we can in return.” n

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andersonmagazine.com 52 November/December 2015

On New Year’s Eve, Pints for the People and Palmetto Distilleries will host the county’s rockingest party, for the second year – the Palmetto Distilleries Cotton Ball.

Benefitting four local charities, the Palmetto Distilleries Cotton Ball will take over the Anderson Civic Center so upwards of 600 people can ring in the new year with dancing, live music, silent auction fun and a champagne toast at midnight, officials with Pints for the People said.

The Cotton Ball was originally started in 1915 as a society event to raise money for the Salvation Army. At the time, it was a black-tie masquerade ball attended by some of Anderson County’s oldest and most prominent families.

Last year, Pints for the People decided to recreate the event, down to the black tie masquerade theme, as a charity fundraiser. Nearly 300 people showed up at the Civic Center on New Year’s Eve in everything from Victorian dresses to ball gowns and high heels.

“We were hoping to get 250 for a first-time event,” said Liz Carey, executive director of Pints for the People. “The event, the money it raised and the excitement in the community about the event far exceeded our expectations.”

It’s a huge thrill to see people so excited to do something fun that helps local charities.

The event raised more than $2,000 for each of three charities associated with the event – the TaTa Queens, Touch the Future and Family Promise of Anderson.

This year, Pints for the People has added the Cancer Association of Anderson to the list of charities that will benefit from the event.

The buzz about the Cotton Ball has been building since January 2, said Mason Carey, president of Pints for the People.

“Before last year’s event was over, the Boggs brothers [owners of Palmetto Distilleries] came to me and said, ‘We’re doing this again next year,’ ” Carey said. “And we’ve been hearing from people all over the county that they’ve been making plans to come this year, if they missed it last year.

It’s a huge thrill to see people so excited to do something fun

that helps local charities. That’s what Pints for the People is all about.”

This year’s event will feature food from Friends at the Farm, while City Street Band will provide the music. The silent auction will feature sports memorabilia from both Clemson and USC, a Napa Valley wine trip, and a Michael Kors handbag, among other things.

Tickets to the event are $100 per couple, or $50 per person. Tables for the eight are available for $600 and come with the ability to decorate the table to match outfits or themes. Tickets include heavy hors d’oeuvres, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, live music, dancing, a silent auction and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight with commemorative glasses.

For more information, or to buy tickets, contact Liz Carey at (864) 328-6437, or email pintsforthepeople@gmail.com, or log on to their Facebook page at “Palmetto Moonshine Centennial Cotton Ball.” n

andersonmagazine.com 53 November/December 2015

Sports & Recreation

Rain, Wind, Cold?

Move that workout indoors

By Pauline Medford Photos by jcimages

Making time to work out is difficult for some of us under the best of circumstances, but throw in a holiday or a cold rainy day, and the level of difficulty doubles, maybe even triples.

Sadly, one raindrop is all I need to convince myself that I should not go to the gym, and I am confident I am not alone.

With the holidays fast approaching, as well as the unpredictable weather often seen in the winter months of the Upstate, it is important to make plans now to combat the voices in your head that will try and convince you to skip your trip to the gym.

Thankfully, Laura Campbell, a trainer with Workout Anytime Fitness in Anderson and Easley, has some great advice to keep all of us on a successful fitness track during the winter months and the holidays, no matter what the weather outside is doing or the voices in your head are saying.

“There is no replacement for getting out and going to a gym,” she said. “With that being said, the holidays can be a busy time and some days the gym just doesn’t happen. For those times, doing a few simple exercises at home can help keep you on track until your schedule opens up a bit.”

In addition to the at-home work out steps, Laura also recommends finding other ways throughout the day to maximize energy to stay on-track with your workout habits. Do something every day for fitness, such as taking the parking spot farthest from your destination; or putting on a pedometer and aiming for 10,000 steps a day.

What you eat is also important, she said. Start the day with a healthy breakfast before temptations have a chance to get in the way. Drink water, drink water, then drink some more water and stay away from, boxed, heavily processed foods. If you can’t pronounce something on a food label, it is probably something that you should not be eating.

It is important to always choose foods that are as close to their natural state as possible such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. n

EXERCISES

15 repetitions of each exercise • 1 minute of plank Repeat three times.

1.

Chair Squats

Stand in front of a chair with your feet hip-width apart. Slowly lower your bottom toward the chair without actually sitting down. Keep your knees over your ankles. Straighten your body upright and repeat.

andersonmagazine.com 54 November/December 2015

2.

Chair Push Ups

Stand facing the chair and reach forward to place both hands shoulder-width apart on the front edge of the chair.

Straighten your arms and ensure your body and legs are extended in a straight light. Lower your body until your chest touches the front edge of the chair, then raise back up.

3.

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Getting the

Perfect

Family Portrait

By Pauline Medford

Photos on this page courtesy of Crafts Photography

This time next year, my oldest child will be off at a university, and I will be here at home with the rest of my children, eagerly awaiting the Thanksgiving Holiday, which will hopefully also coincide with my eldest’s return.

Lately, I find myself staring for a moment longer at photos of my children when they were smaller, and I wonder, as all parents do, where the time has gone. I often tell my children that the photos of them from years past, that I have placed strategically throughout our home, are what inspire me to be a better parent, or at least a temporarily nicer one. Our walls are covered with their tiny faces, but it is the few and

far between photos that I have of our entire family that I treasure the most.

Every year at Christmas, my mother begs my sister and me to please take five minutes and gather the children and husbands and ourselves into one room for one moment in time that she might have us all in one photograph. Nearly every year, we say, “Yes we will,” and then we forget. As parent to a busy senior in high school, I now understand my own mother’s desire to have that single moment with all of her children and grandchildren caught forever in a photograph. So I decided to make taking a family portrait a priority this year, not only for my mother, but for my own family as well.

Technology and photo editing applications have allowed for photographers to pop up everywhere, but taking and preserving a family portrait requires more than simply having a good camera and lighting.

Crafts Photography, in business since 1969, with locations in Anderson and Seneca, understands the needs and importance of not only family portraits, but also children and newborn photos, communion, bridal, holiday, graduation and event photography.

Catherine Crafts said that taking someone’s family portrait can be one of the most joyous occasions of their year.

“Oftentimes, people travel from all over the country to be together, and when they arrive, after what is many times several years apart, it is a wonderful occasion and something we love being a part of,” she said.

Crafts also said that it is important the photographer understands what the family is wanting from their session so that each person’s personality shines through.

andersonmagazine.com 56 November/December 2015

Photos on this page courtesy of David Locke, Black Truffle Photography at Locke Design

family is love

Some families, such as the Bishop family, make taking a family portrait a yearly tradition. Nancy Bishop has implemented this with her family because they change so much in just a year, she said.

Not to mention, in this technical age, selfportraits are becoming the standard for photos, and that doesn’t represent the whole family.

“The children enjoy having their picture taken by a professional photographer,” said Bishop. “My girls think they are so adept at taking their own selfies now, so a professional photographer adds some excitement to the plan.”

Planning wardrobe for a family portrait is important as well. “Trying to find outfits to wear that seem timeless continued on page 58

andersonmagazine.com 57 November/December 2015

continued from page 57

Photos on this page courtesy of Angel Ruff Photography

Tips for the Perfect Family Portrait Find the Right Photographer Do you love black and white portraits? Do you like the natural, candid look? Did grandmother want a formal photo? Make sure to research photographers and look through their work for previous clients. Don’t just hope they understand your vision. Find someone whose work communicates that.

Plan Ahead Haircuts, dry cleaner, ironing – there’s no reason to wait until the last minute for this stuff. You also want to try on everything you plan to wear BEFORE the day of the photo shoot so you know how it looks together.

Color Coordination Instead of matching everyone from top to bottom, consider a color theme with a pop of added color here and there. Does your family wear a lot of blue and navy? Go with that, and add a pop of color with tiny doses of red or orange.

Trust the Photographer Don’t worry if you think your child isn’t looking the right way or smiling right. You’ve hired a skilled family photographer, so let them do what they know how to do best to get the best shots.

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rather than trendy is always a challenge,” Bishop said.

In recent years, the trend has been to wear matching colors, or for everyone to wear one color top with a certain color pants. Scott Crafts says families no longer focus so much on everyone matching in the photograph, though many families still like to have a coordinated element.

He also says that since 80 percent of the family portraits they shoot are taken outdoors, it is a good idea to work with the elements in the surroundings. Crafts Photography has beautiful outdoor scenes at both of their locations, so there is no need to seek out another spot.

Whether you are seeking a photo for the perfect holiday card, a beautiful portrait to give as a gift to a family member or you just want to make your mother happy after all these years, make time this season to schedule a family portrait with one of our local talented professional photographers. n

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andersonmagazine.com 58 November/December 2015

Anderson County

Anderson County Team Delivers Relief Contributed by Angie Stringer, Director of Communications for Anderson County

EMAC Team including FEMA, SC Emergency Management Division, Mississippi Emergency Management Agency, Abbeville County and Anderson County.

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According to WeatherBell meteorologist Ryan Maue, approximately 5.8 trillion gallons of water inundated South Carolina during a 6-day period in early October. Although Anderson County managed to escape the most severe effects of Hurricane Joaquin, damage to homes and infrastructure ultimately approached $1 million.

In the wake of what has been dubbed the 1,000 Year Flood, many neighboring South Carolina counties have suffered catastrophic flood waters, leaving some residents homeless and many without access to safe, clean water.

In traditional fashion, Anderson County immediately reached out to lend a helping hand. County Emergency Manager Taylor Jones, Steven McDade and Matthew Littleton were dispatched to assess needs and request back resources from the State Emergency Operations Center (EOC). County personnel took positions within the EOC, functioning out of Public Information and Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) which acts as a complement to the federal disaster response system, providing timely and cost- effective relief to jurisdictions struggling to preserve life, the economy and the environment.

According to Emergency Management Division’s Logistics Manager Guy Gierhart, “the Anderson County team was essential to providing almost 2 million liters of bottled water to the residents of Richland County, Williamsburg County and the City of Columbia during this emergency. Their positive attitude and willingness to assist those in need is greatly appreciated.”

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Dining & Entertainment

wiNamineAsi& adin Binestro

By Lisa Marie Carter

For me, it doesn’t get much better than great sushi, unless that sushi is accompanied by a great view.

How lucky are those of us in the Anderson area that we can experience that right here by boat or by car? You’ll get both when you head over to Nami Asian Bistro for some great sushi and views of Lake Hartwell.

Some people still squirm at the thought of sushi, but Nami offers other options, many of them cooked. And some of the rolls are made with cooked, sometime even fried, seafood! Occasionally, Nami also offers specialty rolls that contain meat so that even carnivores can have their beef fix at this sushi spot.

If you are a roll type person, Nami offers a large variety of choices sure to please. Everything from the standard Spicy Tuna and California Roll to their own unique creations like the Anderson roll - which consists of shrimp, asparagus and cucumber with their house sauce.

Check out their Charleston Roll for something different.

It’s a combination of smoked salmon, barbequed eel, avocado and cucumber. Nami even has vegetarian roll options for those who so desire.

I’m more of the sashimi type of person. Just some nice slices of fresh fish, no rice or fillers will suit me just fine. At Nami they offer a chef ’s selection for the sashimi giving you a variety of three different fresh fish.

Mussels Yaki, green mussels (bigger than the typical black mussel) in the shell topped with a creamy Nami sauce and broiled to perfection, is also a favorite. They also offer another version - Dynamite Yaki - consisting of a variety of seafood prepared the same way.

In the cooked seafood area, several tempura seafood choices, as well as choices of grilled and baked fish dishes, are available. And for the landlubbers, Nami offers a variety of steak selections and chicken dishes.

Of course, you’ll need something to wash down these culinary delicacies, and you’re bound to find something to wet your whistle as they have a full bar including several specialty drinks and a nice selection of wines by the glass or bottle.

No meal could be complete without dessert. End the evening on a sweet note with a choice of ice creams, cheesecake, Crème Brulee and other house specialties, like chocolate mousse or tarts.

If you would like to see a certain restaurant featured in Wine and Dine please email lisamarie@andersonmagazine. com. n

andersonmagazine.com 60 November/December 2015

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Dining & Entertainment

Mill Town Players

Making a Mark in Pelzer

By Lisa Marie Carter

Will Ragland, the Executive Artistic Director of Mill Town Players, a community theater group that performs in Pelzer, has been working in Upstate theaters for 20 years.

With experience in more than 85 productions, mainly as an actor and scenic designer, he was honored with 2015 Best of the Upstate Best Local Actor.

Mill Town Players held its inaugural season in 2014 – which included six productions and two concerts. Their first year included shows such as Always Patsy Cline, Dark of the Moon, Treasure Island and Grease.

The group currently produces six plays per season, with two in the fall, a Christmas play, two in the spring, and a large summer musical.

“I choose the plays with the help of our board of directors,” said Ragland. “We choose a collection of plays we feel our audience would most enjoy. Currently, we are interested in producing comedies and musicals that are mainly Southern-based or themed.”

Last year, Mill Town Players brought Dark of the Moon to the South Carolina Theatre Association Community Theatre Festival.

The group won 1st place, Best Direction, Best Set Design, Best Lighting Design, Best Sound Design, Best Musical Ensemble, Best Supporting Actor, Best Supporting Actress, and Best Cameo. They went on to represent SC in the Southeastern Theatre Conference Community Theatre Festival in Chattanooga, TN, and won Outstanding Set Design and Outstanding Lighting Design.

In addition to his extensive experience with community theater, Ragland is also an educator. At Woodmont High School in Piedmont (a Greenville County school), he formed the Wildcat Players, which went on to

Scenes from the 2014 production of “A Christmas Carol.”

set state play attendance records and win the state championship in 2012. Currently, he is enjoying his first year at Palmetto High School (Anderson District 1) by starting a new theater program and the Mustang Stage Company.

Ragland plans to incorporate youth performances in the Mill Town Players in the future.

“We hope to expand our reach by offering new educational programs next summer that will give birth to the youth series. This could eventually develop into a Youth Theater connected to Mill Town Players, which would include classes and camps,” said Ragland.

Mill Town Players performs all shows in the Historic Pelzer Auditorium at 214 Lebby Street in Pelzer. The auditorium was built around 1920 by the mill and was used primarily as the school auditorium. It holds 687 seats with a balcony.

andersonmagazine.com 62 November/December 2015

Evergreen Plantation Weddings & Events Their second season is in progress, and you’ll still have time to catch several shows before the season ends. Kick off your holidays with a Rock ’n Roll Christmas, and make plans for future shows, including The Foreigner, Greater Tuna and Oklahoma.

For information on tickets, times, volunteering or participating, visit their Facebook page or website: www. milltownplayers.org or contact them at 864-947-8000. n

4800 Highway 187 South • Starr, SC 29684

www.evergreen-plantation.com Jessica Faulkenberry - Event Coordinator • 864.437.3400

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Rock ’n Roll Christmas • Dec 4-20 The Foreigner • Feb 26-March 13 Greater Tuna • May 20-June 12 Oklahoma • July 15-Aug 7 Shows run at 7:30 p.m.

Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays; 3 p.m. on Sundays.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.milltownplayers.org or at the box office one hour before the show starts.

Online sales close 5 hours before the show starts. Tickets will still be available at the box office. Doors to the auditorium open 30 minutes before the show starts.

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andersonmagazine.com 63 November/December 2015

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TANK AWAY getaway

By Lisa Marie Carter

Just two hours up I-85 is “The Queen City,” also known as Charlotte, North Carolina.

Charlotte is the largest city in North Carolina and the second largest city in the Southeastern United States, just behind Jacksonville, Florida. The Queen City offers a variety of things to do and see. We decided to fill our tank and go there to catch a football game at Bank of America Stadium.

There are many choices of hotels, so you really can’t go wrong. We stayed at the Holiday Inn Charlotte-Center City. Once we checked in and parked our car, we didn’t need it again until we checked out. The Holiday Inn was within walking distance of the stadium and many other local attractions like the Epicenter and 7th Street Public Market.

On our way over to the stadium, we stopped at Whiskey River, one of the many bars located in the Epicenter. Whiskey River is a favorite of NASCAR fans and sports fans alike, as NASCAR great Dale Earnhardt, Jr. owns it. With big screens located everywhere you look, your team will surely be on one of them. They have a unique selection of appetizers including a wide variety of wings.

We headed over to the stadium for the game. At Bank of America Stadium there really is no bad seat. The stadium has big screens as well as TV’s in the concourse areas to see the action close up. Don’t worry if you didn’t get a chance to grab a bite before the game because the stadium offers a variety of food vendors as well as beer and wine vendors.

After the game we follow the crowd back to the Epicenter, where you have your choice of places for a nightcap and/or a late night bite. Go a bit more formal and have a steak at Fleming’s or go for a fun hangout

Charlotte, NC

like Mortimer’s Café and Pub. After a big night, there’s nothing like a great breakfast, and we headed to Midnight Diner - a real, honest to goodness diner! The food, oh the food! Our hotel shuttle driver insisted we try the chicken and waffles. My husband ordered that with a slight twist, substituting the waffles for their Thumbs Up Coconut Crunch French Toast. The French toast is beyond words, it’s like eating desert for breakfast! In typical diner style, there is more food on the plate than you can even think of eating, so bring your appetite.

We ventured over to the 7th Street Public Market to shop a while. What a great place to grab some unique food items. It’s a foodie’s paradise! Having just eaten we didn’t get to sample any of the goods, but we did grab a few goodies from some vendors to take home.

Another great place right around the corner from the Holiday Inn is Bar Cocoa.

Anything and everything sweet is what they have. I’m dying to go back and try their house made hot cocoa created with gourmet beans from Madagascar and topped with gooey house-made marshmallows. That alone would be worth the trip!

As I recap this trip I realize most of what we did besides the game revolved around food. Not that it’s a bad thing, but Charlotte does have so much more to offer: the US National Whitewater Center, which has the world’s largest re-circulating river, along with biking and hiking; the Charlotte Motor Speedway; the NASCAR Hall of Fame; Discovery Place, which has an IMAX theater and nature museum; and so much more. No matter what your pleasure is, be sure to pack your walking shoes as on foot is the best way to explore and fully enjoy this great city.

Fill up your tank and head out on your own getaway soon! n

andersonmagazine.com 64 November/December 2015

*If you have a suggestion for a Tank Away Getaway please email lisamarie@ andersonmagazine.com

November & December

Nov 6 Anderson Area Chamber of Commerce Toast n Topics 7:30 a.m.

Tucker’s Restaurant gbolt@andersonchamber.com www.andersonscchamber.com

localevents

Nov 7 Midway Presbyterian Church 1st Annual Christmas Bazaar 9am-2pm 3238 Midway Rd., Anderson www.facebook.com/Midway PresbyterianChurch Nov 11 Foothills Alliance Festival of Trees Brunch Anderson Civic Center 9:30 a.m. www.Foothillsalliance.org Nov 12 Anderson County Humane Society Furball Fundraiser The Bleckley Inn 6-10 p.m.

864-934-5600 www.facebook.com/AndersonHumane Nov 13 Anderson Area Chamber of Commerce Movers & Shakers 7:30 a.m.

The Bleckley Inn gbolt@andersonchamber.com www.andersonscchamber.com

Nov 13 Foothills Alliance Festival of Trees Champagne & Mistletoe Auction Anderson Civic Center 6 p.m. www.Foothillsalliance.org

Dec 3 City of Anderson Holiday Walk & Tree Lighting 6 p.m.

Downtown Anderson, Courthouse www.cityofandersonsc.com

Nov 20-22 Holly Jolly Holiday Fair Civic Center of Anderson www.Hollyjollyholidayfair.com

Dec 4 Anderson Area Chamber of Commerce Toast n Topics 7:30 a.m.

Tucker’s Restaurant gbolt@andersonchamber.com www.andersonscchamber.com

Nov 22 Community Thanksgiving Service Pendleton United Methodist Church 6 p.m.

Nov 26-Jan 1 The Christmas Gift Light Festival

Formerly known as Lights of Hope

Civic Center of Anderson Andersonchristmaslights.com Nov 26 First Flight’s Electric City Gobbler 5K Anderson Mall Main Entrance 8:30 a.m. www.Yourfirstflight.org Nov 27 Christmas Tree Lighting on the Village Green Pendleton 6 p.m. www.facebook.com/pendleton255

Dec 5 Anderson Area YMCA’s Reindeer Run Anderson Area YMCA 7 a.m. www.Andersonareaymca.org Dec 5, 6, 12 & 13 Pendleton Historic Foundation Christmas at Ashtabula 864-646-7249 Pendletonhistoricfoundation.org Dec 5 Belton Center for the Arts County Christmas Tour of Homes 3 -7 p.m. www.Beltoncenterforthearts.org Dec 6 City of Anderson Christmas Parade 3 p.m.

Downtown Anderson www.cityofandersonsc.com

Dec 11 Anderson Area Chamber of Commerce Movers & Shakers 7:30 a.m.

The Bleckley Inn gbolt@andersonchamber.com www.andersonscchamber.com Dec 11 Anderson Area Chamber of Commerce Electric City Women’s Holiday Brunch 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

The Bleckley Inn gbolt@andersonchamber.com www.andersonscchamber.com Dec 13 Pendleton Christmas Parade 3 p.m.

Downtown Pendleton www.facebook.com/pendleton255 Dec 15 Anderson County Christmas Parade 3 p.m.

Facebook.com/AndersonCountyParade 1andersonparade@gmail.com Dec 31 Belton Center for the Arts Ring in the New Year 8 p.m.-midnight The Listening Room www.Beltoncenterforthearts.org Dec 31 Pendleton Playhouse A Toast to the Future 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/pendleton255

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Tour of Homes

On December 5, 2015 Experience the charm of Country Christmas Tour of Homes and Holiday Market in Belton 4:00-7:00 pm. $20.00 for adults and $5.00 for children.

New Year Celebration Now Thru World of Comics December featuring The art of Dave and

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November 22 Turkey Shoot Fundraiser December 5 Christmas Parade, Tree Lighting Holiday Activities

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andersonmagazine.com 65 November/December 2015

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Non-Traditional Traditions

By April Cameron

I grew up in a very traditional family. Mom, Dad, 2.5 kids, white picket fence, minivan, etc. (What’s a .5 kid, though? I never understood that concept.)

We had wonderful family traditions with the majority of my extended family living nearby one another. The matriarch of the family, my grandmother, and her sister made sure we spent Thanksgiving and Christmas surrounded by family with lots of delicious home-cooked foods.

As my grandmother and her sister grew more elderly, the next generation of the family took over hosting Thanksgiving and Christmas. My mom began to host the family at Christmas and my cousin hosted the family for Thanksgiving. And that’s just the way it always has been.

When you become an adult and marry, you have to shift your traditions a bit and make new ones of your own to incorporate another family. And once you have children, even more adjustments are made.

Well, let me tell you, once you are divorced with kids, then there is a whole ’nother adjustment on how you spend your holidays.

So, what has always been a “tradition” isn’t necessarily a tradition anymore. Holidays can literally change from year to year.

The “we always go to Christmas Eve service with the kids” isn’t “always” anymore because sometimes the kids aren’t with you on Christmas Eve. For someone like me, that adjustment has been a little difficult. Growing up with a family that did everything the same way every year, it has taken some work to see the beauty and benefits of finding more fluid “traditions” for the holidays.

Like the Christmas Eve when we didn’t make it to our regular church service. We stayed home, had friends over, and I plunked out “We Three Kings” with just my right hand on the piano.

Or the time we went out to dinner on the night of Christmas Day. After that experience, my daughter and I vowed never to do that again because we felt it was unfair for those at the restaurant to have to work on that day. We created a “non-tradition.”

Or how we now celebrate Christmas with my parents in January. But it’s not always the same weekend. It’s just when it works out for everyone. We don’t stress over making it happen on a certain day or time. We are able to enjoy it without pressure or stress.

Or how Christmas dinner might be turkey. But it might be spaghetti. Or it might be hamburgers. But it will be home cooked and with someone I love, whether friends or family.

While I cherish the memories and comforts of having true “traditions,” I am thankful that I can bend and move and let each year be unique and special in its own way. n andersonmagazine.com 66 November/December 2015

Artwork by Jeanie Campbell

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andersonmagazine.com 68 November/December 2015