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Umbrella anyone? It has felt like April lately, with all the rain and thunderstorms we have had recently. Hopefully, the full force of the summer’s heat and thunderstorms is behind us, and we thankfully shift towards autumn. What goes better with autumn than football? Are you ready for some football? I sure am.
Local high school football teams: Irmo, Dutch Fork, Chapin, plus Carolina and Clemson, finally get back into action as temperatures begin to cool and the daylight shortens. I anxiously await the brisk, crisp, cooler air returning to the Irmo Chapin area. How long it will take until that happens is anyone’s guess. For me, I am hoping for sooner versus later. What about you?
I want to congratulate the businesses nominated for the 2026 Best of Irmo Chapin competition. These businesses and business owners work tirelessly providing the best products and services for our community. Today’s world is constantly changing and keeping up with the present while working towards the future is a never-ending challenge for small business owners.
New businesses are popping up all over Lexington County. Current road construction can make travel times longer, in the face of the massive growth that is occurring, in the Chapin and Ballentine areas, especially with school back in session. Please be careful out there on the roads and watch out for the workers who are trying to improve and make our local roads safer and more efficient. Thanks for reading Irmo Chapin Life Magazine. Please vote at: irmochapinlife.com to recognize our local businesses that make a difference. Cheer for your favorite football team and enjoy the camaraderie of tailgating with friends. Have a great autumn and thank you for reading Irmo Chapin Life!
Todd Shevchik
jess.lex.irmo.chapin.life@gmail.com
PASTOR RON PHILABAUM
“The Mount” Mt. Horeb Lutheran Church
Have you ever felt confused by people’s words and actions? Most of us have.
There’s an old hit song by the Five Man Electrical Band called Signs that playfully points out the hypocrisy we often see in the world:
“You got to have a shirt and tie to get a seat, You can’t even watch, no, you can’t eat, You ain’t supposed to be here—
The sign said you got to have a membership card to get inside.”
We still see “signs” like this today—spoken or unspoken rules that make others feel excluded. People draw lines, create divisions, and act as though some are more worthy of God’s love than others. But Jesus made it clear: there’s room at the table for everyone.
In Mark 12, a religious leader asked Jesus, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” Jesus replied:
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength... The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”
So, how do we live that out in a world filled with confusing “signs”? With conflicting news, different religions claiming to hold the truth, and people shouting “Do this! Don’t do that!”—it can be overwhelming.
But Jesus gave us clear direction in Matthew 28. He told His disciples, and us, what to focus on:
“Go and make disciples of all nations... teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
When life feels confusing and we don’t know what signs to follow, we return to this: Love God. Love others. Share the Good News. And remember, we never go alone.
Jesus is with us always, guiding our steps and strengthening our faith. That promise gives me confidence in every conversation and encounter, and I hope it gives you peace, too. May God’s peace go with you on your journey. n
CALENDAR OFevents SEPT - OCT
Thursday, September 18 – Sunday, September 21
Columbia’s 38th Annual Greek Festival
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral | 1931 Sumter St. Columbia
Enjoy the music, atmosphere, food and drink, and learn a little about Greece. Visit columbiasgreekfestival.com for more information.
Saturday, September 20
Lakeside Litter Sweep
Lake Murray | 8:30 am – 12:30 pm
Help Keep the Midlands Beautiful by cleaning up litter on the islands and shorelines around Lake Murray. Volunteers will receive a T-shirt, lunch, and a thank you gift. Learn more at kmbsc.org.
Sunday, September 21
Beyond the Scoreboard: Cultivating Growth, Connection, & Well-Being in Youth Sports
Pilgrim Lutheran Church | 1430 N Lake Dr. | Lexington | 4 pm
Former Major League Baseball player, Travis Snider, will host this event for parents, coaches, and mentors, focusing on navigating the culture of youth sports. For tickets visit eventbrite.com.
Saturday, September 27
Chirp Quest: A Birding Adventure with “The Purple Martin Guy”
Saluda Shoals Park | 5605 Bush River Rd.| Columbia | 8:30 am
Join local naturalist, Zach Steinhauser, for a bird watching tour for middle and high school students. Enjoy a chance to relax and reconnect with nature. To register visit eventbrite.com.
Sunday, October 12 Fall Fido Festival
Melvin Park | 370 A Eptings Camp Rd. | Chapin | 1 pm – 4 pm
Grab your furry friends and celebrate one of the most anticipated dog-friendly events of the year. Visit fallfidofestival.com for more information.
Thursday, October 16
Irmo Chamber Fall Golf Tournament
Mid Carolina Club | 3593 Kibler’s Bridge Rd. | Prosperity Sponsored by Reliable Technology Solutions, this event will be Captain’s Choice format. For more information contact events@greaterirmochamber.com.
Saturday, October 18
An Evening For Education
River Center at Saluda Shoals Park | 5605 Bush River Rd. Columbia | 7 pm
The District 5 Foundation will host their annual fundraising gala with a DJ, dancing, food, fun, and an auction. For tickets visit district5foundation.org.
Friday, October 24
Chapin’s Fall Night Out
Chapin Town Hall | 157 NW Columbia Ave | Chapin | 6 pm
Bring the whole family out for food, games, local vendors, and a chance to meet the local officers who serve the Chapin community. Visit chapinsc.com for more information. n
IRMO-CHAPINleader
by Tenell Felder
Tina McCaskill
Tina McCaskill and her daughter, Savannah, have called Chapin home for the last 13 years. McCaskill enjoys attending her daughter’s soccer games as well as outdoor activities.
“This area has very kind neighbors who look out for each other, and also such great opportunities to enjoy all areas of life. We have a tremendous school system that meets the needs of the students and the community. It is what brought us here for Savannah’s education,” McCaskill said.
McCaskill is the Chief Academics Officer for Lexington/Richland 5, and an enthusi astic advocate for education.
“Sometimes I think the importance of what educators do can go unnoticed by culture – but there is a rewarding piece of it. Education is a heart profession. There are a lot of rewards that come from being in education that you just can’t get anywhere else,” she said.
As the Chief Academics Officer, McCaskill supervises the Lexington/Richland 5 school district’s magnet office, special education office, instructional technology, elementary schools, secondary schools, technical schools, and the district’s Career Technical Education programs.
“This is my third year as Chief Academics Officer, and I am finishing up my 34th year in education,” McCaskill said.
She began her career in Manning, SC as a middle school teacher for ten years. After feeling like her heart was pulling her to teach at the elementary level, she moved to Sumter to teach elementary school. Later, she became a curriculum coordinator and then an assistant principal in Sumter.
McCaskill’s daughter played club soccer for a team in Columbia, which also played a role in moving to Chapin.
“I was the assistant principal at Irmo Elementary School for six years. I became principal of the school for four years and then became the elementary director for the district around 2018,” McCaskill recalled.
One of McCaskill’s fondest memories of her career is seeing students complete their schooling.
“I’ve had students I taught in kindergarten and elementary school, and I got to see them walk across the stage as high school graduates. It is really special to know that I was able to be part of their life.”
Preparing the students who come through the school district for life is particularly im portant to McCaskill.
“With Career and Technical Education, we are constantly meeting with the commu nity to see what type of work demands there are so that we can produce students who are ready for the workforce. We tailor our coursework and curriculum to fit the job needs of our community,” she said.
“We want to help students be prepared to begin internships with companies and be ready for a job when they graduate from high school. There are a lot of amazing careers that you don’t need a college degree for, and we want to help our students access those.”
McCaskill emphasized the importance of education, stating that it serves as the build ing block for communities and businesses.
“There are no other careers without education – that is what I think about every day. Graduation is the ‘why’ behind what we do. It’s wonderful to watch kids cross the stage for graduation and to know we helped them plan their futures,” she shared. n
Councilman Gabriel Penfield Connecting Community
by Mary Ann Hutcheson, photos by Lola Dee Photography
Irmo Town Councilman, Gabriel Penfield, sometimes feels like Johnny Cash when he sang, “I’ve been everywhere, man.” Indeed, he has. His life began in New Orleans, Louisiana. In the winter of 1985, when Penfield was just five, the family moved to Landrum, South Carolina. He remembers climbing out from the back seat of their little red Chevette and seeing snow for the first time, recalling that he immediately felt at home. While growing up in the shadow of Hogback Mountain, he remembers being embraced by the foothills. He said, “Being raised in rural South Carolina was truly a gift. The smalltown community, a sense of belonging, and neighbors looking out for each other shaped me profoundly.”
Over the years, with his dad’s support, Penfield engaged in sports. He earned his permit, had a girlfriend, and followed a curfew. By his senior year in high school, he had evolved from the quiet, last picked for kickball to the class Homecoming King. He describes that experience as wanting to fit in, wanting to be “part of the tribe.” He shared, “Everything that I do on council is about making a place for people to have a seat at the table, being part of the community. And I will always cherish that.”
Collaboration, teamwork, and helping people are evident in everything he does— whether as a councilman or business owner.
Entering Public Office
Penfield’s journey into public service was sparked by a frustrating issue with a broken water pipe in his yard that last-
ed 18 months before resolution. Former Irmo Mayor Libby Green, recognizing his strengths as a doer and problem solver, suggested he run for Irmo Town Council. As a Councilman, Penfield’s natural gifts as a leader and an advocate for others would serve his community well. He was elected to the position in February of 2024.
Penfield owns Relational Wealth Management, where he has provided retirement and financial planning advice for 23 years. He was also the Co-founder of Tribal Coffee Company, Poore House Furnishings, Parking Lot King, and Mavericks Cigars.
As a new candidate, Penfield was surprised to learn how low voter turnout is. Irmo’s rich history, diverse culture, and beloved events like the Okra Strut show how deeply residents care for their town. Yet in many elections, fewer than one in ten voters participated, leaving decisions to a small fraction of the community. Loving Irmo means not only celebrating it but
also helping choose the leaders who protect and shape its future. Elections such as our school board influence our children’s education, and those elected for town council help name the committee and board members that influence how money is spent on roads and other infrastructure.
Penfield embraces the challenges of navigating a sometimes frustrating and slow government system while accommodating the needs of constituents. He recognizes there are sometimes confusing boundaries between state agencies. He says, “Without order, we devolve into chaos. So, we have to have systems.” However, he believes leadership has no boundaries
against communication, so agencies should at least talk to each other. Resourcefulness, persistence, and problem-solving skills go a long way towards getting problems solved.
Servant Leadership
Penfield is a lifelong learner and carries a deep conviction to help his neighbors. Whether in his career or his position as Councilman, Penfield puts people first. He has studied the author John Maxwell for 23 years and applies much of what he has learned.
He mentions the “bystander effect,” where individuals are less likely to offer help to a victim when other people are
present. “Human nature can fall into the ‘bystander effect,’” he said. “If I notice I’m experiencing a lack of action, and I see no one else is doing anything, I’ve decided that’s a cue for me—or someone like me—to get involved. That might include making myself available to help people in Western North Carolina after this year’s fires or purchasing a chainsaw to cut trees for residents after last year’s hurricane.”
He says, “The family I came from didn’t have a lot of resources, but they’ve always been benevolent and always tried to help people in the community. Now that I’m in the position that I am, I’m going to pay it forward.”
He aims to create a concierge-level local leadership, where everyone is treated like a valued neighbor. He wants to wake up every day knowing that leaders don’t take lightly the residents who put their families under the town police and fire protection. “They could live anywhere, but they came to live in our town. We’re proud of that. We’re going to wake up every day and make this a better place to live than it was yesterday,” he said.
Connected at the Heart Level
No biography of Penfield would be complete without mentioning his sense of humor and propensity for sharing famous quotes. Consequently, a listener has to stay on their toes when talking with Penfield. He says his mother had an “extreme sense of humor,” so he comes by it honestly. His dad gave him his work ethic. When his dad passed away, the pastor asked everyone for one word that would capture his essence. He was a kind and generous man who was at different times a truck driver, an ex-marine, and a football player. The edifying word he offered was “authentic.” His dad was the same man at every instant, something his son admires and recognizes, that it takes courage to put yourself out in the world and risk rejection.
His parting message? “Love your neighbor as yourself. Often, it seems like it takes a national catastrophe, or something on the outside of our humanity, to pull us together. But we don’t need to wait for calamity to be connected at the heart level. At the end of the day, most people want to feel valued as a part of a community. Together, we can continue to enjoy Irmo as a place where every resident feels seen, heard, and proud to call home.”n
Dawn Cilley, love their work with the event. Cilley’s family moved to the area 25 years ago and she followed in 2022. Her curiosity about the Irmo Strut eventually led her to volunteer at the 2023 Strut, becoming a voting commissioner in 2024, and helping plan that year’s event before it was canceled due to Hurricane Helene. Dawn has played an integral part in ensuring that the 2025 50th Anniversary Okra Strut event is well-planned and celebrated. That’s in addition to her full-time job as an airline consultant.
The Okra Strut is held on the last full weekend of every September, but the commitment to this event extends beyond a few days. Planning for the Strut is a yearround endeavor, a testament to the dedication and passion of the organizers.
The Okra Strut is held at Moore Park on Church Street in Irmo. The event will take place on Friday, September 26, from 6 pm to 11 pm and on Saturday, September 27, from 9 am to 5 pm. For the full schedules and more information, visit okrastrut.com.
In the early 1970s, the Lake Murray-Irmo Woman’s Club introduced a fundraiser to support a brand-new library in Irmo. The tradition of frying up okra to raise funds for a good cause was established. Their efforts funded Irmo’s first library building on St. Andrews Road, and the Okra Strut became a community tradition.
If you have never been to Irmo’s annual Okra Strut, mark your calendar for September 26 and 27, 2025. This year celebrates the Strut’s 50th Golden Anniversary, an important milestone that promises to make the event one of its best.
Recent Irmo Okra Strut Commission Chair, Mike Ward*, first joined the event in 2018 as a volunteer, eventually assuming the role of Chair in 2023. He noted, “It is not a solo role. It takes a lot of minds and a lot of hands to make the Okra Strut happen.”
When Ward was not preparing for the Okra Strut, he was working at his full-time job, operating a small business that provides cybersecurity for other small businesses.
Juggling a full-time job and chairing the Okra Strut event can be challenging, but Ward and incoming Okra Strut Chair,
Volunteers do all of the setup work. The event has arts and crafts vendors, local businesses that come out to exhibit, nonprofits, food vendors, amusement rides, local community group entertainers, bands, lights and shows, and a parade. With the proceeds they receive in a good year, when they make more money than they’ve spent, they reinvest in the community and local nonprofits. They also award two annual $2,000 scholarships to high school seniors who are leaving for college.
Ward said, “If you’ve never been to the Okra Strut, the invitation is there. It’s the biggest party that Irmo throws every single year. If you want to see what community in action really is, come to the Okra Strut.”
Cilley shared, “The Okra Strut is an opportunity to enjoy what the town has to offer. We get people from all over the place, but it’s important to get all the local people to see what the town is about as well. I want people to enjoy this little town that has a lot of heart.” She added, “Remember, you don’t have to eat okra to enjoy the strut!” n
*Ward was officially sworn in as Irmo’s newest council member after a June 3 election and will step down from his role as Okra Strut Chair to dedicate his time to his council duties.
HIGH SCHOOL
IRMO YELLOW JACKETS
August 22 @Oceanside Collegiate
August 29
@James F. Byrnes
September 5 Butler
September 12 Carolina Forest
September 19 @Myrtle Beach
October 3 Lexington
October 10 @River Bluff
October 17 White Knoll
October 24 @Chapin
October 31 Dutch Fork
CHAPIN EAGLES
August 22
August 29
Catawba Ridge
@A.C. Flora
September 5 Spring Valley
September 12 @Newberry
September 19
Summerville
October 3 @Dutch Fork
October 10 @Lexington
October 17 River Bluff
October 24 Irmo
October 31 @White Knoll
August 29
DUTCH FORK SILVER FOXES
Spartanburg
September 5 Ridgeview
September 12 @Gray Collegiate
September 19 @Oceanside Collegiate
October 3 Chapin
October 10 @White Knoll
October 17 Lexington
October 24 River Bluff
October 31 @Irmo
BEN LIPPEN FALCONS
August 15 @First Baptist School
August 29 Trinity Collegiate
September 5 @Wilson Hall
September 12 Cardinal Newman
September 19 @Northwood Academy
September 26 @Laurence Manning Academy
October 3 Porter-Gaud
October 10 Heathwood Hall
October 24 @Hammond
October 31 Augusta Christian
TIGERS
2025 Clemson University Football Schedule
August 30 LSU Clemson, SC
September 6 Troy Clemson, SC
September 13 Georgia Tech Atlanta, GA
September 20 Syracuse Clemson, SC
October 4 UNC Chapel Hill, NC
October 11 Boston College Chestnut Hill, MA
October 18 SMU Clemson, SC
November 1 Duke Clemson, SC
November 8 Florida State Clemson, SC
November 14 Louisville Louisville, KY
November 22 Furman Clemson, SC
November 29 South Carolina Columbia, SC
August 31 Virginia Tech Atlanta, GA
September 6 SC State Columbia, SC
September 13 Vanderbilt Columbia, SC
September 20 Missouri Columbia, MO
September 27 Kentucky Columbia, SC
October 11 LSU Baton Rouge, LA
October 18 Oklahoma Columbia, SC
October 25 Alabama Columbia, SC
November 1 Ole Miss Oxford, MS
November 15 Texas A&M College Station, TX
November 22 Coastal Carolina Columbia, SC
November 29 Clemson Columbia, SC
GAME COCKS
2025 University of South Carolina Football Schedule
CHAPIN POLICE DEPARTMENT
by Chesson Merritt
For Police Chief Thomas Griffin, serving as the head of the Chapin Police Department isn’t just a milestone in his career, it’s a homecoming. Born and raised in Chapin, Chief Griffin now patrols the same streets that he grew up on. He and his wife are raising their two children there, in the heart of the community that shaped him.
Beyond Serving and Protecting
The meaningful connection to the town extends beyond just Chief Griffin as the entire police department, while not required to do so, chooses to live within the community. It’s a personal investment that shapes the way they approach their work. When the people you serve and protect are your neighbors, friends, and local shop owners, the job takes on a deeper meaning.
While public safety will always be their core mission, Chief Griffin and his officers see their role as more than just enforcing the law. In a small town, he believes that the heart of policing lies in building relationships by showing up, getting to know local businesses, and being part of the moments that bring people together. That’s why the Chapin Police Department is a familiar presence at community gatherings, from one of the town’s oldest traditions—the Chapin Labor Day Festival and Parade—to one of its newest—Old Timey Christmas.
You’ll also find them participating in events that are uniquely their own, like the department’s annual Fall Night Out.
“National Night Out is typically in August when it’s uncomfortably hot outside,” Chief Griffin said. “So, we decided to have a Fall Night Out. We usually have it the week before Halloween and invite other agencies to participate with us, such as the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, the local Fire Department, and EMS. They bring out trucks, drones, and K9 units to the event. All of our officers work at different stations, and there’s even reading in the back where some officers are reading books to kids.”
The evening provides an exciting, hands-on experience for kids to enjoy and allows for the officers to interact with the community outside of the usual emergency context. It’s a welcoming atmosphere that allows officers and residents to get to know one another while enjoying an evening with family and friends.
The department’s community reach also extends into the local schools. While the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department provides School Resource Officers, Chief Griffin and his team make a point to stay involved and be a part of the school’s community.
“We go to the schools and read and visit with them as well,” Chief Griffin said. “The biggest thing that we do is every year is on Veterans Day. The American Legion puts on a parade with motorcycles through every school within the Chapin area. Our officers always lead that, and afterwards, we get out and interact with the children.”
The parade holds special significance for the department: Out of its ten officers, six are military veterans, including Chief Griffin himself. That shared background makes their participation not just ceremonial, but deeply personal, too.
The Chapin Police Department’s commitment to community services doesn’t end with public events and parades. For all of the officers, wearing the badges means finding ways to serve in everyday moments, especially when it comes to helping those facing hardships. That’s why their outreach extends into partnerships that provide direct support to residents in need.
“We proudly participate with Serve & Connect and the Greg’s Groceries initiative,” Chief Griffin said. “We regularly attend packing events and
bring back Greg’s Groceries boxes that each of our officers keep in their patrol vehicles. This allows us to distribute them directly to individuals and families in need throughout our community whenever the opportunity arises.”
The police department’s partnership with Serve & Connect furthers its goal of building trust, compassion, and connection with the residents of Chapin.
“It allows us to make a positive impact, one box at a time, which is why we’re honored to be a Greg’s Groceries partner,” Chief Griffin said.
Looking ahead, Chief Griffin’s focus remains on deepening those connections while ensuring that Chapin stays a safe, welcoming place to live and raise a family. That means continuing to embrace community-based policing, ensuring that his officers continually improve their training, supporting local schools, and finding creative ways for residents and officers to engage with one another outside of emergencies.
The department is committed to continuous learning as they regularly engage in a wide range of training programs both locally and nationally. This dedication ensures that every officer stays sharp and up-to-date on the latest techniques so that they can be fully prepared to provide the highest level of service and protection to Chapin.
“When it comes to the community involvement side of things, we are focused on what we’ve been doing already by getting out into the community, schools, and businesses,” Chief Griffin said. “We see a big return on investment there when it comes to the community’s trust in us, trust in what we do, and trust in the individual officers.”
Chief Griffin knows that while both the town and the officers may change over the years, the measure of the Chapin Police Department will always come down to the relationships it builds within the community. For him, leading the department isn’t about making sweeping changes—It’s about reinforcing the values that have long made Chapin feel like home to everyone that lives there. n
Best Accounting Firm
Patriot Consulting
Robert Keisler
To The Moon and Back
Best Aesthetic Practice
Glõ Skin Bar & Medical Spa
Palmetto Aesthetic Medicine
Vivid Aesthetics
Best Afterschool Program
Gateway Baptist Church
Legacy Martial Arts
Safari After School
Best Allergy/ENT Practice
Carolina Allergy & Asthma
Lexington Medical Center ENT
Palmetto Allergy & Asthma
Best Apartment Complex
Grandview at Lake Murray
Palisades at Ballentine
Residence at Marina Bay
Best Art Gallery
High Noon Art Gallery
Palmetto Fine Arts
Ramco Framing & Design
Best Assisted Living Facility
Generations of Chapin
Harbison Shores
The Heritage at Lowman
Best Attorney: Elder Law Firm
Law Office of Barbara E. Brunso
Law Office of Laura H. Huggins
Lawyer Lisa
Best Attorney: Family Law Firm
Dial, Grimm, & Rupert
Lighthouse Family Law
McCutchen McLean
Best Attorney: Litigation Firm
Harrell, Martin, & Peace
Leddy Law Firm
Studemeyer Law Firm
Best Attorney: Probate/Estate Firm
Amy Cofield Law
Law Office of Smokey Brown
Parker Law
Best Attorney: Real Estate Firm
Aun & McKay Law Offices
Law Office of Smokey Brown
Lawyer Lisa
Best Attorney: Workers Comp
Harrell, Martin, & Peace
Law Office of Carter Martling
Law Office of Laura H. Huggins
Best Auto Repair Shop: Domestic Chapin Automotive Repair
Christian Brothers Automotive
Cottman Transmission & Auto Care
Best Auto Repair Shop: Foreign
Eurowerkz
Imports Plus
The Auto Shop of Chapin
Best Auto Service Dealership
Dick Smith Nissan
Jim Hudson Toyota
Steve Padgett’s Honda
Best Bank
First Community Bank
Synovus Bank
Truist Bank
Best Bath/Kitchen Fixtures
Bath & Bronze
Capital Kitchen & Bath
Floor & Décor
Best BBQ
Cox Family BBQ
Farm Boy’s BBQ
518 Smokehouse
Best Boat Repair
Marine 360
M&W Marine
The Boat Butlers
Best Breakfast
Bakon Southern Eatery
Eggs Up Grill
Luzianna Purchase
Best Burger
Higher Ground
Lucky’s Burger Shack
Tipsy Toad Tavern
Best Butcher Shop
Caughman’s Meat Plant
Ole Timey Meat Market
Teagues Meat Market
Best Catering Company
Culinary Kitchen
France’s Catering
Mathias Catering
Best Charter School
Green Charter School
Grey Collegiate
SC Whitmore School
Best Children’s Boutique
Enchanted Closet
Poshture Boutique
Three Little Chickadees
Best Chiropractor
Align Chiropractic
Family Practice of Chiropractic
Midlands Family Chiropractic
Best Coffee Shop
Bart’s Coffee Roasting Co.
Coffee Shelf
Loveland Coffee
Best Coin Dealer
Gilbert Coin
Golden Eagle
Best Concierge Medicine
Abundant Life Concierge
SC My Care
Valor Health
Best Consignment Shop
Clothes Mentor
Magnolia Resale
Palmetto Thrift Store
Best Cosmetic Surgery
Glõ Skin Bar & Medical Spa
Lefkowitz Plastic Surgery
Prisma Health Plastic Surgery
Best Counseling Services
Fuller Life Counseling
Lindsay M. Amburn Counseling
Therapy Your Way
Best CPA
Barbara Kelly
Beth Gierhart
Robert Keisler
Best Credit Union
Founder’s Credit Union
Palmetto Citizens
SC State Credit Union
Best Custom Home Builder
Conquest Homes
Gallup Design Build
Shealy Construction
Best Dance Company
Dance Department
Dance World
The Southern Strutt
Best Day Spa
Bedazzled Salon & Day Spa
Blue Lavender Spa
Glõ Skin Bar & Medical Spa
Best Dentist: Adults
Chapin Dental Associates
Distinctive Dentistry
Irmo Smiles
Best Dentist: Cosmetic
Irmo Smiles
Lakeside Dentistry
The Art of Dentistry
Best Dentist: Kids
Irmo Kids Dental
Lake Murray Pediatric Dentistry
Tiny Teeth
Best Dermatologist
Advanced Dermatology
Carolinas Dermatology
Columbia Skin Clinic
Best Dessert
Nothing Bundt Cakes
S&S Destination
Sweet Izzy’s Ice Cream
Best Doggie Daycare
Chapin Pet Lodge
Pet Vacations
The Woods Canine Resort
Best Electrician
Cassell Brothers
Lake Murray Electric
Light Um Up Electrical
Best Esthetician
Angela Lim, Bedazzled Salon
Chantel Harnden, Glõ Skin Bar
Kaitlyn Morales, Well Soul Spa
Best Event Venue
Historic Leitner House
The Cotton Press
The Meech House
Best Exterminator
Baine Pest Control
Cayce Exterminating
Jeffcoat Pest Control
Best Family Entertainment
Anchor Lanes
Riverbanks Zoo
Stars and Strikes
Best Family Practice
Chapin Family Practice
Lexington Family Practice Ballentine
Prisma Health Ballentine
Best Fine Dining
Chophouse of Chapin
George Roberts Wine & Raw Bar
J Peters Grill & Bar
Best Fitness Center
Anytime Fitness
Club Fitness Irmo
Sozo Family Fitness
Best Furniture Store
Chapin Furniture
Little Mountain Home/LUX Home
Sugar Creek Amish Furniture
Best Garden Center
First Priority Garden Center
Seven Oaks Plant Shop
Wingard’s Market
Best General Contractor
Bise Builders
Dutch Fork Renovations
Master Construction Co.
Best Glass Store
Bigger Glass Co.
Binswanger Glass
Century Glass
Best Gym
Club Fitness Irmo
Flex Supergym
Sozo Family Fitness
Best Hair Salon
Hyde Salon
The Color Bar Without Limits
Best Hairstylist
Cindy Shultz, Infinity Hair Salo
Heather Malovic, Without Limits
Shayna Dagenais, Hyde Salon
Best Happy Hour
Carolina Ale House
Hemingway’s
Tipsy Toad Tavern
Best Hardscaping Services
Bryan’s Lawn Maintenance
First Priority Landscaping
Saluda Hill Landscapes
Best Hearing Healthcare
Affordable Hearing
Lake Murray Hearing
Midland Hearing Associates
Best Heart Doctor
Dr. Amy Epps, LMC
Dr. Dan Bouknight, CCVA
Dr. Garrison Morgan, MUSC
Best Heating & Air
Cassell Brothers
Kaminer Heating & Cooling
Richardson’s Heating & Air
Best Home Accessories
Little Mountain Home/LUX Home
Nifty Gifty
Poore House Furnishings
Best Home Builder
Great Southern Homes
Magnolia Custom Homes
Mungo Homes
Best Home Furnishings
Chapin Furniture
Little Mountain Home/LUX Home
The Houston House
Best Hospice Care Agape Care
Amedisys
Be Well Home Services
Best Insurance Agent
Melody Herring, Russell-Massey
Scott Moseley, Irmo Insurance
Victoria Ares, Allstate
Best Insurance: Auto
Farm Bureau Insurance
Russell-Massey & Co.
Scott Hanners State Farm
Best Insurance: Health
Cave Insurance Solutions
Gibson & Associates
Murdock Insurance
Best Insurance: Home Owner’s Cave Insurance Solutions
Hutson Insurance
Irmo Insurance
Best Insurance: Life
Farm Bureau Insurance
Irmo Insurance
Lowery Consulting Agency
Best Internal Medicine
Lexington Internists Irmo
SC Internal Medicine
Three Rivers Medical Associates
Best Interior Design Firm
Haven & Harbor Interiors
The Houston House
Vie Elan Interiors
Best Internet Service Provider
AT&T
Carolina Connect
Lumos
Best Investment Firm
Ameriprise Financial
Beckett Financial Group
Edward Jones Investments
Best Jewelry Store
Carolina Fine Jewelry
David’s Fine Jewelry
Moseley’s Diamond Showcase
Best Lake Restaurant
Liberty Taproom
Martin’s Landing
Rusty Anchor
Best Landscaping Company
Elite Landscaping
First Priority Landscaping
South Ground Supply
Best Landscaping Supply
Miner’s Landscape Supply
South Ground Supply
Willingham & Sons
Best Margarita
La Fogata
Martin’s Landing
Nacho Margarita
Best Massage
Glõ Skin Bar & Medical Spa
Lotus Mind & Body
Well Soul Spa & Salon
Best Meat Store
Caughman’s Meat Plant
Ole Timey Meat Market
Teague’s Market
Best Medical Imaging
Advanced Diagnostics
American Health Imaging
Best Medical Spa
About Face Aesthetics & Wellness
Glõ Skin Bar & Medical Spa
Radiant Med
Best Men’s Health Practice
Alpha Male Men’s Clinic
Gameday Men’s Health
The Men’s Clinic
Best Mortgage Company
Guild Mortgage
Metro Mortgage Corporation
Total Mortgage of Chapin
Best Mosquito Control Co.
Jeffcoat Pest Control
Mosquito Joe of Lake Murray
Mosquito Squad
Best Music School
Freeway Music
Irmo Music Academy
Lake Murray Music
Best Ob/Gyn Practice
Chapin Women’s Care
Elite Gynecology
Lexington Women’s Care
Best Optometrist
Eyecare Center Chapin
Eyes on the Lake Palmetto Eye Care
Best Orthodontist
Carroll Orthodontics
Davis Orthodontics
O’Leary Orthodontics
Best Orthopedic Practice
Carolina Bone & Joint
Midlands Orthopedic
Palmetto Bone & Joint
Best Outdoor Equipment Co.
A-Z Lawnmower
Irmo Outdoor Equipment
Wilson Equipment & Outdoor
Best Outdoor Furniture
Boland’s Ace Hardware
Sugar Creek Amish Furniture
Yoder Outdoor Products
Best Painter
Cola Town Painting
Lake Murray Painters
M&A Painting
Best Pediatric Practice
Ballentine Pediatrics
Chapin Pediatrics
Sandhills Pediatrics
Best Personal Training
Club Fitness Irmo
Elite Personal Training
Sozo Family Fitness
Best Pet Groomer
Chapin Pet Lodge
Sutton’s Southern Pet Retreat
Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming
Best Pet Hospital
Chapin Veterinary Care Center
Lake Murray Animal Hospital
Lake Town Animal Hospital
Best Pet Kennel/Boarder
Chapin Pet Lodge
RubyRed’s Pet Care
Sutton’s Southern Pet Retreat
Best Pharmacy
Irmo Drug
Lake Murray Drug
Peak Pharmacy
Best Photographer Essentials Headshots
Lux Verum Productions
Samantha Kilgore Photography
Best Physical Therapy Practice
Drayer Physical Therapy Institute
Forged Physical Therapy
Prisma Health Physical Therapy
Best Pilates/Yoga Instruction
Club Pilates
Hot Worx
Pilates Sculpt Studio
Best Pizza
Bellacino’s Pizza & Grinders
Cheesy Pint Pizzeria
Tonella’s Pizza Kitchen
Best Place to Buy a Boat
Captain’s Choice Marine
Muddy Bay Marine
Wilson Marine
Best Place to Buy a Camper/RV
Blue Compass RV
Camping World
Lester’s RV
Best Place to Buy a Car: New
Jim Hudson Toyota
Steve Padgett’s Honda
Stokes Trainor
Best Place to Buy a Car: Used
CarMax
Love Chevrolet
Stokes Trainor
Best Place to Buy Carpet/Flooring
Kirkland’s Flooring
Lake Murray Floor Covering
RiteRug Flooring
Best Place to Buy Eyeglasses
Cardinal Vision
Eyes on the Lake
Stanton Optical
Best Place to Buy Hardwood Floors
Floor & Décor
RiteRug Flooring
Kirkland’s Flooring
Best Place to Buy a Pool
Aquarium Pools
Cromer Pools
Palmetto Paradise Pools
Best Place to Buy Tires
Christian Brothers Automotive
Lake Murray Tire & Automotive
Royson’s Chapin Automotive
Best Place to Work
Keller Williams Realty
Lexington Medical Center
Newberry Health
Best Plumbing Company
Homans Clearwater Co.
Howell Plumbing
Meetze Plumbing
Best Podiatry Practice
Columbia Podiatry
Lexington Podiatry
Physicians Foot Care
Best Pressure Washing
Bring It Back Exterior Concierge
Pro Finish Pressure Washing
Squeegee Clean
Best Private School
Ben Lippen School
Hammond School
Northside Academy
Best Property Management Co.
Arnold Companies
Midlands Property Management
PMI Palmetto
Best Real Estate Agency:
Commercial
Century 21 803 Realty
NAI Columbia
ReMax At The Lake
Best Real Estate Agency:
Residential
Exit Palmetto Real Estate
ReMax At The Lake
The Downing Group
Best Real Estate Agent:
Residential
Molly Sims, ReMax at the Lake
Randy O’Dell, ReMax at the Lake
Terri Bauerlin, Keller Williams Realty
Best Residential Contractor
Bring It Back Exterior Concierge
Lake Pointe Construction
Not Your Average Joe
Best Restoration Services
Drip Ninjas
Duraclean
Kingsley
Best Roofing Company
Burgin Roofing
Crosby Roofing
Vista Roofing
Best Salad
Carolina Ale House
Doza Rizen Cafe
J.R. Cash’s Grill & Bar
Best Sandwich Shop
Luzianna Purchase
Mathias Sandwich Shop
S&S Destination
Best Seafood Restaurant
Catch 22, Chapin
George Roberts Wine & Raw Bar
Southshore Grill & Grocery
Best Self-Storage Facility
Lake Murray Boat & RV
Storage Rentals of America
Storage Sense Irmo
Best Senior Home Care
Assisting Hands Home Care
Heartfelt Home Care Irmo
McLeod Homecare
Best Senior Living Community
Lakeview Retirement Community
Southwoode Independent Living
The Heritage at Lowman
Best Steak
Chophouse of Chapin
Halls Chophouse
J.R. Cash’s Grill & Bar
Best Sushi Restaurant
Inakaya Watanabe
Koi Asian Fusion Cuisine
Tsunami of Harbison
Best Sweet Tea
Chick-Fil-A
J.R. Cash’s Grill & Bar
Sonic of Chapin
Best Tacos
La Fogata
Nacho Margarita
Real Mexico
Best Towing Company
Freedom Towing
St. Andrews Towing
Wingard Towing Service
Best Tree Removal
Alfonza’s Landscape & Trees
Sox & Freeman
Watson Arbor Service
Best Unique Gift Shop
Miss Cocky Chapin
Nifty Gifty
Wild Birds
Best Urgent Care
Chapin Urgent Care
LMC Urgent Care
Prisma at Parkridge
Best Urology Practice
Carolina Urology Partners
Lexington Urology
Prisma Health Urology
Best Veterinarian
Friarsgate-Ballentine
Lake Town Animal Hospital
Well Pets Veterinary Clinic
Best Wait Staff
Chophouse of Chapin
Higher Ground
J.R. Cash’s Grill & Bar
Best Wealth Management Co.
Blackstone Financial
Cornerstone Financial
Sturkie Wealth Management
Best Web Designer
Carolina Web Design
Convergent Design
Grover Web Design
Best Wedding Venue
M Garden
Old Barn Farm
Venue 817
Best Weight Loss Program
About Face Aesthetics & Wellness
Glõ Skin Bar & Medical Spa
Physicians Weight Loss Center
Best Wigs/Hair Pieces
Becky’s Place at LMC
Carolina Beauty
Merle Norman, Chapin
Best Window Replacement
Bigger Glass
Sheppard’s Glass
Window World
Best Window Tinting
Palmetto Pro Tint
Spectacle Tinting
Ziebart of Irmo
Best Wings
Carolina Wings & Ribhouse
Hutto Wings
Tipsy Toad Tavern
Best Women’s Clothing Boutique
Joni’s Merle Norman Boutique
Miss Cocky Chapin
Treasures of the Heart Boutique
Best Write In Closets By Design
Japan Direct Motors
Lake Murray Boat Tours
Thank you for voting!
Pilots N Paws flies high for rescued animals
by Betsey
Guzior
David Allison remembers his first delivery as a pilot for Pilots N Paws.
It was a mixed-breed dog heading for its forever home. Allison remembers he was nervous that his canine passenger would be shaken up by the noise of his airplane, but the dog got through the two-hour flight unscathed.
Allison, 69, still has a photo of the pooch, ready to end his journey from a shelter in Raleigh, North Carolina to Charleston, South Carolina just a few days before Christmas. The dog was a present for two boys there, from their mother, who had recently gone through a divorce.
“That was really cute, and he was a good boy,” Allison said of handing off the dog to the woman.
As a volunteer pilot, Allison has done four flights so far and hopes to do more once he fully retires.
Allison has been flying formally for five years, fulfilling a lifelong dream of being in the sky since his days in the Navy.
And he found a mission in Pilots N Paws, a national organization with a simple aim –to connect dogs and cats to a brighter future through flights around the country.
state South Carolina rescuing Dobermans from shelters and suspected dog fighting. She was trying to get a dog from Florida when a friend, John Wehrenberg, offered to pick it up and transport it via his plane. Shortly after, Boies and Wehrenberg began creating a network through website forums to match pilots with rescue groups.
“I knew nothing about aviation. He knew nothing about a rescue, but he informed me about how pilots work,” Boies said.
Now over 6,000 volunteer pilots fly more than 16,500 rescue animals each year. To date, Boies estimates that Pilots N Paws has flown more than 215,500 animals. In the South, pilots transport animals from South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, and Florida to places such as Virginia, Massachusetts, and other places in New England.
Pilots such as Allison log onto a website forum and look through requests from rescue groups. Depending on the weather, availability, and the capacity of the aircraft, pilots then arrange for pickup and delivery.
Pilots N Paws supplies crates, collars, or leashes for the pilots, who are not paid for the service, but can write off expenses working for the 501(c)3 organization.
“My hope for the future is the day we are no longer needed.”
— Debi Boies
Not only dogs, but cats, rabbits, pigs, and even reptiles have taken a ride thanks to a Pilots N Paws volunteer pilot.
About 70 percent of dogs entering shelters in the South are euthanized, but programs such as Pilots N Paws shipping them elsewhere raise their odds for adoption.
The organization was founded by Debi Boies, who was a retired nurse living in up-
In the Southeast, some animals are flown from overcrowded shelters to ones in the Northeast that can accommodate them. Others are flown to their future homes, making it easier for a short flight instead of a long journey by car or van that often takes several days and volunteers.
The work is important and sometimes dangerous. Seuk Kim, a volunteer pilot for Pilots N Paws, crashed in November 2024 in rough weather just outside Albany, New York. Kim died of his injuries. One dog also died, but two others survived the crash.
In his honor, Seuk’s Army was formed
to provide on-the-ground help with rescues and veterinary needs of animals.
Volunteer coordinator Sydney Galley of Greenville, whose husband, Jerry Stephens is a Pilots N Paws volunteer, is a frequent flier, bringing dogs and cats from places in North Carolina and Georgia to shelters in the Northeast.
While many of the dogs are mixed breed, Galley said she’s seeing more that are part of a “doodle” mix, hastily bred but then discarded or found as a stray. She also remembers the rescue of two bloodhounds who were “skin and bones” and dumped in the woods. Now, the two are in Harrisburg,
About Pilots N Paws
Founded in 2008, the organization coordinates with 6,000 and dozens of rescue organizations nationwide to move dogs, cats, and other domesticated animals to new homes or no-kill shelters, increasing their odds of getting adopted.
You can help the organization, pilotsnpaws. org, by donating or purchasing merchandise, or connecting with a rescue organization.
Pennsylvania, and their futures are bright.
Boies serves now as president of the organization. She sees her role as letting pilots be in charge so they can find the best opportunity.
Pilots N Paws hopes to reach out to a younger generation through its children’s book and programs, in the hope that they will push for better regulation and oversight of domesticated pets in the South.
And while the popularity of the organiza tion has grown, Boies is longing for the day when there are no more flights to schedule.
“My hope for the future is the day we are no longer needed,” Boies said. n
Fantastic Fall Fun
With the cooler weather comes fun outdoor activities. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite activities for all ages.
Midlands Fall Plant and Flower Festival
SC State Farmers Market
3483 Charleston Hwy West Columbia October 3 – 5 agriculture.sc.gov
Shop seasonal plants, flowers, pumpkins, gourds, décor, and more. Wagons will be available on a first-come, firstserved basis, but visitors are encouraged to bring their own due to the limited quantity.
SC State Fair
1200 Rosewood Ave
Columbia
October 8 – 19 scstatefair.org
Hot dogs, funnel cakes, rides, animals, and more. The iconic SC State Fair is back with the theme, “Harvesting Happiness”. Bringing rides, vendors, entertainment, and pure family fun.
Riverbanks Zoo Boo at the Zoo
500 Wildlife Pkwy
Columbia
October 17 – 30 riverbanks.org
Put on your costume and join this popular Halloween spooktacular. Treat or treat through the zoo with all kinds of fun activities and treats along the way.
Dark Castle
Haunted Attractions
2076 Hwy Church Rd Elgin
September 26 –November 8 darkcastlesc.com
Step into the Dungeon of Darkness, take action in the Zombie Zone, and explore the Dark Knight’s Terror Trail. Dark Castle is an intense, full-sensory haunted attraction and is not recommended for young children or sensitive guests.
Eudora Wildlife Safari Park Fall Festival
219 Salem Lane Salley
Weekends in October eudorafarms.net
At this safari drivethrough, the fall festival will include pumpkin patch activities, a corn maze, games, pony rides, and a petting zoo.
Lever Farms
5057 SC Highway 34 Pomaria
Saturdays in October leverfarms.com
Pick your perfect pumpkin off the vine or choose a pumpkin already picked. Enjoy activities such as games, corn maze, wagon rides, farm animals, and more.
Stewart Farms 6600 Highway 92 Enoree
September 21 – 27 stewartfarms.net
Explore a corn maze, pumpkin patch, and wagon rides; nighttime activities include Big Boo and haunted wagon rides.
Lexington September 19 –November 2 clintonseasefarm.com
Enjoy hayrides, a playground, an obstacle course, a corn maze, a pumpkin patch, and so much more. There is so much fun to be had at the farm, everyone in the family is sure to have a great time. n
Experience this self-guided haunt through 6 terrifying buildings, 3 intense outdoor areas, and creepy corn fields. Deceased Farm is an intense haunted attraction and is not recommended for children under the age of 12.
Keeping It Tidy
by Jessica Brown
Effective Habits for a Clean and Uncluttered Digital Space
Just like physical spaces, our digital world can become overwhelmingly cluttered without regular and intentional cleanup. From stuffed inboxes to messy PC folders overflowing with duplicate snaps of the kids, the dogs, and downloaded memes, digital clutter impacts both productivity and mental clarity. The good news is that with consistent habits and clear routines, you can maintain a clean digital environment that enhances your workflow, especially if you are a busy parent, professional, or business owner.
Start with these tips that hopefully will turn into full-fledged habits.
Schedule Weekly Email Purges
Your inbox isn’t a storage unit. Dedicate 20 minutes each Friday for email cleanup. Sort by sender or subject to quickly delete unnecessary messages. Create action-based folders like “To Reply,” “To Read,” and “To Archive.” Unsubscribe from newsletters you haven’t opened in three months. For important emails, either handle them now or move them to your task system. Consider using an email management tool like Mailchimp that can automate some of the process.
Implement the “Digital Touch-It-Once” Rule
Handle digital files only once. When downloading a file, immediately decide: delete if temporary, move to a designated folder if needed, or process it right away. Create a simple folder structure with categories like “Work,” “Personal,” “Finance,” and “Projects.” This prevents your downloads folder from becoming a digital junk drawer. The key is making quick decisions and sticking to your organization system.
Conduct Monthly Cloud Storage Audits
Review your cloud storage on the first of each month. Delete
duplicates, remove outdated versions, and consolidate similar files. Focus on photos and videos which take up the most space. If you are a parent, you probably have a lot of duplicate photos of your kids. Use tools to identify duplicate photos or unusable videos that you can delete in batches. Purge and curate regularly. Empty your cloud trash - these files still count toward your storage limit. Consider setting up automatic file sorting rules to maintain organization between audits.
Practice Regular App Assessment
Every quarter, review your installed apps. Remove those unused in the past three months especially duplicate apps or game apps that you use to waste time. For kept apps, clear caches, and temporary files. Check app permissions - many request unnecessary access that can slow down your device. Keep a list of essential apps and their purposes to make future assessments easier.
Maintain
a Digital Asset Inventory
Keep a spreadsheet of important digital assets: subscriptions, cloud accounts, software licenses, and domain names. Streamline so that you only have one app for one purpose. Review quarterly to cancel unused services and handle renewals. This prevents you paying for forgotten services and helps track your digital footprint. Include renewal dates and costs to better manage your digital expenses.
As our lives become more digital, maintaining clean virtual spaces is as important as keeping tidy physical ones. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection but progress toward a more organized digital environment. Start with these habits and enjoy the benefits of an uncluttered digital space for an intentional and efficient digital life. n
spice OF LIFE
Scrumptious Sliders
Chicken and Bacon Sliders
12 slider rolls
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded 8 slices of bacon, crumbled
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded ½ cup ranch dressing
½ cup butter, melted
1 tsp dried parsley
½ tsp garlic powder
1 Tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the bottom half of the rolls in a baking dish and spread the chicken evenly over the bottom layer of rolls. Drizzle the ranch dressing over the chicken, sprinkle the cheese and bacon on top. Place the top half of the rolls over the filling. Mix the melted butter with the parsley, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese, and brush the mixture over the tops of the rolls. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted.
Caprese Sliders
12 slider rolls
12 slices mozzarella cheese
12 slices tomato
basil leaves
balsamic glaze
olive oil
salt and pepper to taste
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the bottom halves of the slider buns in a baking dish. Layer each bun with a slice of mozzarella, a slice of tomato, and a few basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place the top halves of the buns on and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is slightly melted and the buns are toasted.
Shredded Pork Sliders
12 slider rolls
4 cups cooked pork, shredded
9 slices provolone cheese
1 cup BBQ sauce
¼ cup butter, melted
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp sesame seeds
1 tsp Parmesan cheese, grated
½ tsp red pepper flakes, crushed
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the bottom half of the rolls in a baking dish. Mix the pork and
6 large eggs
½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded salt and pepper to taste
Optional: avocado slices or hot sauce
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cook the bacon and scramble the eggs. Place the bottom halves of the slider buns in a baking dish. Layer each bun with a slice of bacon, a scoop of scrambled eggs, and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese. Place the top halves of the buns on and bake for about 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the buns are slightly toasted. Serve warm with optional avocado slices or hot sauce.
Sausage and Pepper Sliders
12 slider buns
1 lb Italian sausage
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Brown the sausage and set aside. Sauté the peppers and onions until softened, for about 5-7 minutes. Place the bottom halves of the buns in a baking dish. Layer the sausage on each bun, followed by the peppers and onions. Spoon marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with provolone cheese. Place the top halves of the buns on and bake for about 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and the buns are toasted. n
Gilbert Martin was born about 1832 in tiny Martinsburg, Indiana. He married Elizabeth Lee. In 1857 they loaded the wagon with two children and headed 400 miles west to a village named Chili in Hancock County, Illinois. They’d heard about good, cheap land, and they wanted some of it.
They headed west on what’s known as the old Buffalo Trace. Men recorded seeing thousands of buffalo come to a big salt lick at the Ohio River north of what is now Louisville, Kentucky.
They would have ridden due west through Vincennes, which was the home of about 3,000 people. I wonder what Elizabeth thought as she passed through the town with a three-month-old baby in her lap.
A man on a wagon could travel between 8 and 20 miles a day, depending on weather. I guess that means the journey lasted from 20 to 50 days. They were on a mission to western Illinois, so they kept going.
I have no idea how long it took them to get to Hancock County, or why they went to that place, or where they actually stopped.
They set up housekeeping, moved a couple of times, and finally got their own land and built a small house.
There they raised several children, one of whom was named Betty. Betty married John Randell, and they had several kids, one of whom was named Stella. Stella married Boland Clark, and they had several kids. One of them was named Joe, and Joe was my Daddy.
So, going back to Gilbert’s daughter Betty. She was my Great-Grandmother. Her older sis Emma wrote out several pages of recollections in the 1930’s.
Great-Great Grandpa Gilbert grew corn and melons and other crops. They traded with others for things they needed. Nobody had any money. Gilbert grew flax, and he and Elizabeth worked together to turn this into a thread she used to make blankets. Later as the town of Bowen was built nearby, a woolen mill was built also. Gilbert sheared his sheep, took the wool to the mill and had it turned into material that Elizabeth used to make pants for the whole family. Each fall they’d spend a long Saturday filling the wagon with nuts and wild fruit so
they could make it through the winter. There’s mention of Gilbert dying at 39 before he taught young son Frank how to plow, and how new widow Elizabeth taught her son how to break the land so they could grow corn so they could survive.
Everybody worked together and did what they had to do.
Take a good look around wherever you are. Consider how many of the people you see would make it in that kind of life. And consider how our ancestry did it -all the while keeping a faith in God. Gilbert was never too tired to play the violin at the end of the day and help neighbors with extra food.
How many of us would make it? n
David Clark writes and works in Cochran, GA. Connect with him at cw.w4trj@gmail.com.
