FA_OurTown_0126

January/February 2026

FLOOR

Boys!

Brian & Megan Peed

FOREST ACRES EDITION

OurTownNow.com/ForestAcres 1

Discover Yourself in 2026 New Year, Renewed You. Feel energized, confident, and radiant with a personalized approach to whole-body wellness.

Hormone Optimization Rebalance your energy, mood, and vitality.

Medical Weight Loss Sustainable, science-based programs tailored to you.

Aesthetic Enhancements Look refreshed and rejuvenated—naturally.

Start Your Transformation Today!

Disease Prevention

Skin-Perfecting Solutions

Body Shaping

More

4721D Sunset Blvd, Lexington | Mon 12-4, Tues–Thurs 9-4 | 803-520-0506 | cardinalwellnessandaesthetics.com

Winter Weather is Here Time to Crank Up the Heat!

Create a Garden You’ll Love

THE SWAT CARE CLUB!

✔ Starts at $25 a Month ✔ Includes Spring and Fall Preventative Maintenance ✔ Priority Calling and Scheduling ✔ Upgraded Filters ✔ 10% Discount on All Parts ✔ Weekend and Holidays Discounts Serving Lexington, Richland County and Surrounding Areas

Don’t wait join the club today!

803-606-5045 | 803-606-1365 swatheatingandair.com

Locally Owned and Operated 2815 Dutch Fork Rd, Chapin Mon-Fri 8am-5pm | Sat 8am-12pm 803-960-7729 TheOriginalLandScapeSupply.com

A New Year Together: Why Community Matters More Than Resolutions

By Denise Dickinsen

E

very January, people make resolutions—walk more, eat better, get organized. While these goals can be helpful, research shows that one factor has an even greater impact on healthy aging: social connection.

The people around us may matter more than the promises we make to ourselves.

Loneliness and isolation can quietly undermine both overall health.

Strong social ties improve memory, boost immunity, reduce anxiety, and even lower the risk of chronic illness.

People thrive when they feel connected, included, and valued.

Where Connection Happens Naturally At Rice Estate, that spirit of connection is part of everyday life. Instead of having to search for social opportunities or depend on family for transportation, residents find meaningful engagement woven into their day.

Exercise classes, creative workshops, music programs, and small-group gatherings offer familiar moments that spark joy, recognition, and a true sense of belonging. Outings to local restaurants, faith-based fellowship, themed socials, and other purposeful programs encourage residents to stay active and engaged while building relationships that feel natural and supportive.

One resident recently shared, “I didn’t realize how much I missed being around people until I moved in.

It’s the everyday moments— hallway hellos, activities, dining together— that made me feel at home faster than I expected.”

These consistent opportunities for connection are what truly support well-being. They nurture confidence, reduce stress, and reinforce a feeling of purpose—far beyond what most resolutions ever accomplish.

At Rice Estate, connection is at the heart of everything we do.

Stay engaged, explore new experiences, and enjoy a vibrant lifestyle surrounded by people who feel like family.

With opportunities to learn, move, and socialize—and a dedicated team supporting your well-being—you can feel confident as your needs evolve. Backed by a long tradition of excellence, let our family care for yours.

A Better Way to Begin the New Year As we step into a new year, Rice Estate reminds us that community itself is a powerful form of wellbeing.

When older adults are surrounded by neighbors, activities, and caring team members, they don’t have to resolve to stay engaged—they simply live it every day.

Interested in Learning More?

Get connected with Nikki Ray at Rice Estate to schedule a tour and learn about the benefits of senior living: 803.691.5735.

About the Author Denise Dickinsen is the Vice President of Planned Growth & Development for Lutheran Homes of South Carolina, guiding strategic initiatives that support vibrant, mission-driven senior living communities across the state.

Join Our Family Non-Profit, Faith-based Senior Solutions

Connect with us to begin your next chapter.

803.691.5735 or Outreach@RiceEstate.org

Independent & Assisted Living Apartments | Short-term Rehab | Long-term Care

100 Finley Rd. | Columbia | RiceEstate.org

OurTownNow.com/ForestAcres 1

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Publisher Tracy Tuten Editor Kristi Antley Design and Production Kristina Parella Volunteer Coordinator Paige Youmans Contributing Writers Kristi Antley Jerry Grimes Scott Vaughan Photographers Emily Ray Photography Jessica Meetze Stabor Studios Sales Tracy Tuten Tracy@OurTownNow.com 839-205-0717 Our Town Magazine (Vol. 1. Ed.1.) is a bi-monthly magazine published by RIT Media LLC. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced without written authorization from the Owner of RIT Media. The publisher is not responsible for the authors’ opinions or comments or the advertisers’ promotions of their individual businesses.

Visit Our Website!

2 January/February 2026

HAPPY NEW YEAR!! There’s just something about January and February that feels like a reset button. The holidays settle down, the calendars and planners come out, and suddenly we’re all focusing on goals for the new year. I love that energy—it’s that spark that keeps all of us at Our Town excited about our own growth, both professionally and personally, for the year ahead.

As 2026 gets underway, I’m reminded again how special our community and the people in it truly are.

Every month, I get the privilege of sitting down with local businesses, snapping photos around town, and hearing stories from those who live and work here about why they think our area is so special and different ways we can all contribute. And let me just say, the heart, hustle, and creativity right here in our community never fails to inspire me and pique my interest in how to get more involved serving those in…well, our town.

In this issue, it is all about growth. From a family-owned business evolving with the times to guidance helping you plan for retirement as part of our Retirement and Beyond series; there’s no shortage of information to kick off the year. That’s what I love about publishing a magazine that is truly focused on the community: we get to provide information that readers want with resources they can trust right outside their own front doors.

So, whether you’re settling in with a mug of something warm, easing into new routines, or setting goals for 2026, I hope this edition brings you a little spark too; just something that reminds you how connected we all are and how much community really means.

Thank you for reading, supporting, sharing, and cheering us on Our Town Magazine, and look for the next edition coming in March 2026! It truly means the world, and I feel so blessed to have such fantastic advertisers, delightful readers, and a group of talented people who I love working alongside. Cheers to you all and may the year ahead bring many blessings to us all!

I hope to see you out and about in 2026!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

6 Cover Story

Growing Business and Family

4 Local Events

8 Preparing for Retirement

11 Chef's Selection

12 Inspiration

Around Our Town

Flavorful Fruits

Things to Know

Date Night Adventures OurTownNow.com/ForestAcres 3

EVENTS

Local Events: January/February Things to do in and around Our Town!

FRIDAY, JANUARY 9 Winter Jam 2026 Colonial Life Arena 849 Lincoln St., Columbia 7pm

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 11

Winter Jam 2026 brings together some of the biggest names in Christian music for an unforgettable night. Jam Nation Entry is at 5pm for an artist Q & A, general admission and pre-show begin at 6pm, and the main event starts at 7pm. With no tickets required and a $15 donation at the door as your entry, this is an event that you will not want to miss!

JamTour.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 16

75th Anniversary Gala Columbia Museum of Art, 1515 Main St., Columbia, 7pm-11pm Pack your bags and hop aboard as we celebrate 75 years of artistic excellence and community engagement!

The Columbia Museum of Art cordially invites you to an unforgettable evening that transcends time and culture. This event offers catering, themed bars with specialty cocktails, and florals.

Entertainment includes live painting, special guest appearances, and live music from The Root Doctors.

ColumbiaMuseum.org

4 January/February 2026

SATURDAY, JANUARY 31

Purple Martin Conservation Workshop Riverbanks Botanical Garden, 1300 Botanical Pkwy, West Columbia, 10am Join Wingard’s Market Naturalist and USCG Captain, Zach Steinhauser, and learn about Purple Martins, why they need protection, and how to become a Purple Martin landlord by setting up your own colony of Martin Houses.

Every Purple Martin you see flying around Bomb Island on Lake Murray in the summer was born in a birdhouse.

Riverbanks.org.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1

2026 Gamecock Polar Plunge Strom Thurmond Wellness & Fitness Center, 1000 Blossom St., Columbia, 4pm The Gamecock Polar Plunge is part of the South Carolina Law Enforcement Torch Run and 100% of the funds raised benefit athlete programs in South Carolina.

By plunging, you're creating more opportunities for 30,707 children and adults with intellectual disabilities to experience the life-changing benefits of participating in Special Olympics, at no cost to themselves or their families.

For more information, contact Chris Thompson, thomp276@mailbox.sc.edu

Dirty Dancing in Concert Koger Center for The Arts, 1501 Greene St., Columbia, 7:30pm This unique live-to-film concert event features the original film projected in full, accompanied by a live band and singers to perform every unforgettable song from the soundtrack. Feel the romance, rhythm, and emotion as you watch Baby and Johnny’s love story come to life on a full-size cinema screen, with every iconic moment amplified by the power of live music.

KogerCenterForTheArts.com

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20-SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 22 Columbia Boat Show South Carolina State Fairground 1200 Rosewood Dr., Columbia, 10am Whether you are a seasoned boater or just starting out, this is the perfect chance to explore top brands, ask questions, and get inspired for your next adventure on the water. Bring the family, see the newest boats, and connect with our team of experts.

TheColumbiaBoatShow.com

transforming your residential or commercial property with high quality, landscape lighting.

See Your Home in a New Light

Transform your property with high quality landscape lighting. g ncin Fina lable!

Avai

30 years of experience

Add Beauty, Value, Safety and Security to Your Home!

Local and Family owned since 1995

FREE Home Demos!

Residential/Commercial

803-699-7332 | lightscapesofcolumbia.com

Make your Dream Home a Reality

Licensed • Bonded • Insured

Custom Homes Additions | Remodeling 803-233- 3733 | twgsc.com OurTownNow.com/ForestAcres 5

COVER STORY

Floor Boys Flooring Professionals A family-run business that's growing beyond The Midlands

By Kristi Antley

A

ccomplishing do-it-yourself projects can be personally fulfilling and empowering. However, certain projects require the guidance, tools and expertise of professionals. Choosing the proper flooring for your home or office deserves lots of forethought and research. A small mistake could result in damaging the floor beyond repair and compromising the integrity and warranty of the material. This one decision affects the aesthetics, balance and maintenance level of every room. There are more factors to consider other than basic appearance, color and comfort. Being mindful of the materials in your flooring and the condition of the environment is also a smart way to protect the health and wellbeing of family, friends and employees.

Customers in the Midlands are fortunate to have Brian and Megan Peed, owners of Floor Boys Flooring Professionals. As local residents, both Brian and Megan are passionate about being an active part of the community, as well as supporting and contributing to local charities and school fundraisers, sponsoring sports teams, and hosting events to raise cancer awareness. They have four daughters: Ashton (the oldest) manages the Greenville location along with her husband, Allen Letterer, Olivia is a teacher at Pineridge Middle School, Gabby is a senior at Lexington High School, and Anna Grace is an 8th grader at Beechwood Middle School.

Relationships with customers are built on trust, respect and mutual understanding,

6 January/February 2026

which extends beyond the initial purchase.

Customer loyalty and satisfaction have resulted in many repeat clients, consistent referrals and continuous positive reviews.

“You can have high-quality products, great service or low prices, but you can’t have all three at the same time.” Those were the exact words from a flooring industry veteran, which immediately revealed the ultimate goal for Floor Boys Flooring Professionals. “Our mission has been to prove this statement wrong, which we have done consistently from day one!" said Brian Peed. Currently, the company has over 800 five-star Google reviews, which is not easily or quickly achieved.

Brian's journey into the flooring business began as a bright young salesman promoting products for some of the most prestigious flooring retailers in the field. In 2006, with almost two decades of flooring experience, Brian founded Floor Boys, LLC. He and his brotherin-law decided to reinvent and reintroduce reputable service to the flooring industry as installers of hardwood and tile to discerning customers. "At Floor Boys, our neighbors don't just come to us because we've got the widest variety and best value in flooring around," Brian explains. "We also have the best flooring project process available on the market."

The Floor Boy process has been perfected and tweaked through the years to accommodate the ever-changing economy, trends, styles and techniques.

When in the market for new floors, there are a lot of questions that come to mind such as: ”What is the current flooring trend? How long will it last?

How much and what kind of padding do I need? Which material would be safe for the traffic in this area? How will this affect young children, elderly people or pets? How much does it cost? What are the options available to me? How do I install the floors?" For high traffic areas, you may want to consider a flooring option requiring less maintenance like vinyl or laminate; thorough floor preparation is a priority with these types of products. Hardwood and carpet also have a number of added benefits, depending on your preference.

Original wood flooring is one of the most sought-after features in the current market; it makes for a strikingly beautiful

and unique feature to any room. Unfortunately, many hardwood floors have suffered years of neglect and mistreatment or have been covered by new flooring, such as tile, linoleum or carpet.

The subfloor may have issues or be uneven, causing cupping, crowning, or rippling. Should you restore or completely redo the floor? In most cases, the floors can be restored by replacing floorboards, making repairs, and refinishing the existing hardwood floor. However, sometimes this can be as lengthy and costly a process as tearing up and installing new floors. It’s not recommended that homeowners restore hardwood floors themselves. The process to achieve a quality furniture-finished floor as the large professional crews managed by Floor Boys, is second to none. Either way, it’s important to do some research in order to set a realistic budget and timeline to manage your expectations.

It’s best to discuss your options with a flooring expert by setting up a free consultation with Paulo De Morais, the best in the industry, and one of the most proficient employees on the Floor Boys staff.

Floor Boys can service residential and commercial customers in the market for hardwood, carpet, area rugs, tile, laminate, or LVT. Some of the top considerations when deciding on new flooring or upgrading existing floor coverings are durability, comfort, safety and maintenance requirements, scratch and water resistance, style and, of course, budget. Floor Boys is one of the largest flooring providers in the custom home market, and it is consistently expanding in the commercial market by leaps and bounds.

The Floor Boys professional sales staff and technicians are prepared to tackle all of your flooring challenges and offer the best options for the purpose of the space as efficiently as possible. Exploring new styles, textures and ideas with a trained professional will allow character, personality and individuality to take the lead in the design process. Clients appreciate the time, precise calculations, explanations, demonstrations, and consideration of future changes or expansions in the project that present themselves.

Floor Boy Flooring Professional services include, but are not limited to: • free assessment and estimate • customized, individual planning • Seven versatile, mobile showrooms • largest selection and inventory of flooring in the Midlands (6,000 sq. ft showroom) • hardwood restoration (including sanding and refinishing) • financing options (up to 48 months/0% interest) • warranty services Floor Boys has mobile showrooms that travel all over South Carolina. Customers can be in the comfort of their home or business and have the showroom brought to them. They can browse samples for a better feel of what their future flooring will look like with an experienced salesperson who will perform an evaluation and explain various options for the area. This will ensure that you make an educated decision based on the current condition of the area, the desired style, any special features or accommodations and, of course, your budget. Floor Boys's top

priority is protecting the customer's interests while delivering quality products at the best price.

Whether it's time for a renovation or facelift for certain areas around your house or business, let Floor Boys be your hometown, one-stop shop for all types of flooring solutions. After more than 15 years in business, they guarantee high-quality service at competitive prices while upholding their commitment toward customer satisfaction every step of the way. See why customers throughout the Midlands and Greenville have benefited from their unparalleled flooring inventory, expertise and excellent service.

Brian and Megan guarantee that the job will be done correctly, safely, professionally, and to the customer's satisfaction. They strive to provide reasonable solutions to honor each client's specific needs and desires, including aggressive budgets and demanding schedules. Whether shopping for a one-bedroom apartment or a multi-level office complex, call or visit Floor Boys today to schedule your free, no-hassle, no-obligation consultation.

Floor Boys Main Showroom and Wholesale Superstore 1728 North Lake Dr., Lexington 29072 803-756-3016 Floorboys.com Floor Boys of Lexington South 1573 South Lake Dr., Lexington 29073 803-462-4502 Floor Boys of Greenville Superstore 1025 Lowndes Hill, Greenville, SC 29607 (864) 565-0723

OurTownNow.com/ForestAcres 7

RETIREMENT

even if you're late for the party. “It’s not too late to start saving for retirement in your 50s, but immediate action is essential,” Powell said. He recommends these four steps: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

What's Ahead for You in Retirement?

R

By Jerry Grimes

etirement is like crossing a bridge that leads you from the safety and familiarity of your work routine into a strange, new, confusing place.

Because you can’t see everything on the other side, you may feel anxious and insecure about what should be the best years of your life.

Although each situation is unique, three significant components affect every retiree: investment strategy, Medicare, and estate planning. One of the best ways to ensure a smooth transition throughout this journey is to seek solid direction that is sound, effective, and proven. You can expect to cross the retirement bridge empowered and confident with advice from local experts listed below: Developing Your Investment Strategy Brandon Powell, Financial Advisor with Founders Credit Union, says the primary concern regarding retirement is, “Do I have enough money?” Every retirement plan begins with a simple but thorough look at projected expenses and income. For most people, the point where they can comfortably cover expenses is when they are ready to retire, and that can vary a lot because of different lifestyle choices, spending habits, longevity, and so on.

“Clients often wonder about the "magic number," Powell said. He added that there is no one-size-fits-all answer for when to retire. Some expenses like car payments, mortgages, utilities, and taxes are relatively easy to estimate. According to Powell, healthcare costs and long-term care are not as easy to project, and many people don’t plan for them adequately.

“Without proper planning for health-related expenses, even a well-prepared retiree can see their savings quickly depleted,” he shared. He added that investment strategies can help mitigate risk and manage unnecessary expenses such as taxes to protect your retirement nest egg. “Several strategies are available here, including systematic withdrawals, annuities, or other income-generating investments that balance risk and tax efficiency,” Powell said.

Another tip from the experts: Don’t allow yourself to panic about retirement savings,

8 January/February 2026

Maximize contributions to retirement accounts, especially with catch-up provisions, allowing you to save additional money.

Review your budget and cut unnecessary expenses to boost savings.

Consider working longer or delaying Social Security to increase your benefits.

Focus on investing wisely, balancing risk and growth to maximize your savings.

Prioritize debt reduction and planning for healthcare expenses.

In a sense, everyone has been saving for retirement for years through the payroll deduction of Social Security taxes. A government study says Social Security benefits will comprise about half of retirement income for most Americans. So, if you haven’t already done so, open an account at SSA.Gov and see how much of your money Uncle Sam will provide. Remember that wages, withdrawals from retirement accounts, pensions, and investment earnings can make your Social Security benefits taxable by 50-85%, depending on your age and other factors.

There is some good news, though, for all South Carolinians. Our retirement-friendly state exempts Social Security benefits from state income tax. Plus, once South Carolina retirees reach age 65 they can deduct up to $15,000 of their retirement income (such as from a 401(k), IRA, or pension) annually.

Understanding Medicare According to Jennifer Mauldin, owner of Mauldin Insurance Group, the most common fallacy regarding Medicare is that it’s free. While it’s true that most people do not have to pay a monthly premium for Medicare Part A, out-of-pocket costs for the basic plan can mount up, and it doesn’t offer the coverage most people will need.

The Part A annual deductible is $1,632 this year, and many procedures require co-insurance payments. In addition, people who haven’t paid into the system for at least 40 quarters must pay between $278 and $506 per month for basic Medicare.

Mauldin said that Medigap or Medicare Advantage supplemental plans have additional monthly premiums but will help most people get more coverage. These

It’s never too early or too late to begin your investment journey.

Our goal is to assist our clients in many aspects of their financial lives by providing comprehensive and personal service.

I’m here to help!

Brandon Powell Financial Advisor

GIVE ME A CALL:

803-828-7050

Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker-dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates.

Founders Federal Credit Union and Founders Wealth Management are not registered as a broker-dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using Founders Wealth Management, and may also be employees of Founders Federal Credit Union. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from, and not affiliates of, Founders Federal Credit Union or Founders Wealth Management. Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are: Not Insured by NCUA or Any Other Government Agency

DRIVE INTO 2026 with Custom Exhaust

Not Credit Union Guaranteed

Not Credit Union Deposits or Obligations

May Lose Value

Step Into Style in 2026!

General Repairs | Maintenance Custom Exhaust | Dyno Tuning | Tires M-F 8am-5pm

Carpet | Hardwood | Laminate | Tile | and More!

Free In-Home Estimates

Call Today! 803-359-0507 918 Huger Street Columbia 803-252-5595 themufflershopofcolumbia.com

1728 N Lake Dr, Lexington 1573 South Lake Dr, Lexington 1025 Lowndes Hill Rd Greenville

floorboys.com OurTownNow.com/ForestAcres 9

supplemental policies pay for deductibles, coinsurance, and drug costs.

You will want to avoid this Medicare pitfall: Failing to sign up around your 65th birthday. The consequences could trigger late enrollment penalties and delayed coverage. “Even if you’re still working and are covered by your employer’s insurance plan, it’s essential to understand when you should enroll,” Mauldin said.

A false assumption about Medicare is that people think it will pay for the often-exorbitant costs of a nursing home or other long-term care facility. While Medicaid, a program for extremely low-income individuals, does cover these costs, Mauldin notes that most people will not readily qualify for it.

Focus On Estate Planning Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy; it’s for anyone who wants to ensure their assets go to the right people in the most efficient way possible. James McCutchen, McCutchen McClean LLC law firm partner, says everyone can take some simple but strategic estate planning steps.

For example, everyone should have a will, no matter the size of their estate. Once correctly drawn up and filed with the probate court in your county, a will can help your family avoid the lengthy and costly probate process by efficiently specifying the distribution of your assets to your heirs.

Dying without a will could spell financial disaster for your surviving husband or wife. “In South Carolina, if an individual without a will passes, half of their estate would generally go to their spouse, and the other half would go to their children. Although this may seem fair or equitable, typically, most spouses leave their entire estate to each other and do not leave any assets to their children until after both parents or spouses pass away,” McCutchen said.

Failing to keep your beneficiary designations current is another major pitfall to avoid.

Passing income to a beneficiary takes precedence over distribution through a will. There are several unwanted outcomes with no beneficiary on your policies and accounts (or an outdated one). So, avoid the pitfall by routinely reviewing every insurance policy, 401k, IRA, brokerage account, and bank account. “Should you have concerns about the individual receiving the payout as your beneficiary, I recommend listing a restrictive trust as the beneficiary,” McCutchen said.

Another tip: Consider titling assets like your home, vehicles, boats, or RVs as "joint tenants with rights of survivorship," which allows them to pass directly to a co-owner without going through probate. McCutchen said everyone should also think about who they want to be in control of healthcare and financial decisions if they become incapacitated due to an illness or an accident. This is good advice for people of all ages, not just retirees. “I recommend every individual, regardless of assets, have a financial and health care power of attorney in place,” he shared. “Since the laws have changed in South Carolina, these cases have become very expensive, as family members are required to post bond, pay for their attorneys, the attorney for their loved one, and the guardian ad litem appointed by the Court.”

McCutchen said a revocable trust can be a great estate planning tool. It allows you to transfer assets upon death to your beneficiaries, avoiding probate. Trusts are private and can hold assets to delay distribution to minors and others who should not have control of the funds immediately.

“This is very common for minors who are unable to manage finances or beneficiaries who you fear will spend their inheritance inappropriately and quickly upon your death,” McCutchen said.

A pro tip: Trusts and wills both require that you name someone to administrate them. If you don’t have a relative in mind for that, McCutchen shared that you can often work with your bank or a corporation in the retirement planning space for an executor or trustee as a paid service.

Explore Spousal Benefits Social Security can be confusing, especially when it comes to spousal benefits. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you understand how they work: If your own Social Security retirement benefit is lower than your spouse’s, you may qualify for a spousal benefit. This can increase your monthly income to up to 50% of your spouse’s full retirement benefit.

You may apply as early as age 62, but the amount is permanently reduced if claimed before your own full retirement age. To receive the full 50%, you must wait until your full retire-

10 January/February 2026

ment age as defined by the Social Security Administration. For example, Mary receives $1,500 per month from her own record.

John’s full retirement benefit is $4,000 per month. At Mary’s full retirement age, she applies for spousal benefits. She keeps her $1,500, plus a $500 spousal supplement, for a total of $2,000 per month—half of John’s benefit. Divorced spousal benefits may be available to you based on an ex-spouse’s record if: • Your marriage lasted at least 10 years • You are age 62 or older • You are currently unmarried • Your ex-spouse is at least age 62 If you have been divorced for two or more years, your former spouse does not need to be collecting for you to qualify. Your benefit does not reduce your ex-spouse’s payment.

Survivor Benefits If your spouse or ex-spouse passes away, you may qualify for survivor benefits, which can be up to 100% of the deceased spouse’s benefit, depending on your age when you claim. Survivor benefits can begin as early as age 60 (or 50 if disabled). For example: Carla receives $1,000 per month from her own Social Security. Her former spouse, Timothy, was receiving $3,000 per month when he passed away. If Carla waits until her survivor full retirement age to apply, her $1,000 benefit can be replaced by up to Timothy’s full $3,000 monthly benefit.

Disability and Spousal Benefits Spouses of workers receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) may also receive auxiliary spousal benefits, generally up to 50% of the worker’s benefit, subject to family maximum limits.

Spousal, divorced spousal, and survivor benefits can significantly increase retirement income—but timing, marital history, and age all matter. Reviewing your options carefully can make a meaningful difference in your long-term financial security.

Armed with an investment strategy, a little knowledge about government programs such as Medicare and Social Security, and a primary estate plan, you can fearlessly join the ranks of those who no longer answer to an alarm clock every morning and can continue to live your best life. We hope these tips make the bridge to retirement much more navigable. According to the local experts, any unknowns you face can be addressed through proper planning.

CHEF'S SELECTIONS

Kick-off Your Day and Your Year!

New Year's Day is when resolutions are made. For some, that includes heating healthier, exercising, or taking time to enjoy life a little more than the year before. Our Town Magazine has partnered with a few local businesses to bring you some of the best ways to start your day on a healthier note and still enjoy life! The recipes included in this edition use fruits to bring you fun and flavorful breakfast options this New Year. and vinegar bowl, then add the two bowls together and stir until just combined(it should still have some lumps). Spray the skillet or griddle with cooking spray. Use a 1/4 cup measuring cup to pour batter into the skillet, leaving a couple inches between each pancake. Cook on the first side for about 2 minutes, or until bubbles form and the edges start to look dry. Flip the pancake and cook another 1-2 minutes on the other side.

Repeat until the entire mixture has been cooked. Add apples sauteed in butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until apples are tender for extra flavor and presentation! Enjoy!

Apple Cinnamon Pancakes INGREDIENTS: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

3/4 c. milk 1 1/2 tbsp. vinegar 1 c. flour 3 tbsp. sugar 1 tsp. cinnamon (if you’re a fan of cinnamon feel free to add another 1/2 teaspoon) 1 tsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. baking soda 1/2 tsp. salt 1 egg 2 tbsp. cooking oil 2 tbsp. butter 2 apples (peeled, cored, and diced) 2 tbsp. brown sugar 1/2 tsp. cinnamon 1/3 c. maple syrup

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat a large skillet to medium-high heat. Whisk together the milk and vinegar and let it rest for 5 minutes. Next mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. Whisk the eggs and cooking oil into the milk

Creamy Blueberry Smoothie Submitted by Eating For Healing Nutrition and Wellness

INGREDIENTS: • • • • • •

1 c. frozen blueberries 1 c. frozen cauliflower 1 c. plain Greek yogurt 1 tbsp. chia seeds 1/2 banana 1/2 c. unsweetened almond milk

DIRECTIONS:

Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a glass and enjoy!

EatingForHealing.org

OurTownNow.com/ForestAcres 11

INSPIRATION

Date Night Adventures “Left or right?”

“Right.”

“Left or right?”

“Left.”

“What time is it?”

“6:30.”

“How far away tonight?”

“No more than an hour.”

By Jane Ivey

After planning a few date nights myself in the past that turned into more of a chore with underwhelming results in 2016, this is the date night route my husband, Tim, and I chose to take. We have always enjoyed spending time together and after being married for 45 years, raising our beautiful family, being active in our grandchildren’s lives, and running our own business, we decided it was time for yet another adventure refocusing on the two of us spending uninterrupted, quality time together. How it came about was quite by accident. We had planned to have dinner at a restaurant about 30 minutes outside of town, only to discover that it was closed for vacation. Unable to find any other local restaurants open past five o’clock left us with two options–head toward home or keep driving. We chose the second option. We decided to stop in a small town with only two local restaurants open for dinner. Our choice for the evening was a unique diner that has been in operation since 1961.

The experience was so fun we decided not planning would be the new standard for date night with a few rules to make it more of an adventure–back roads are the preferred routes, the smaller the town the better, and the destination choice is determined by our impromptu turn choices made at traffic lights or stop signs along with the travel time we allot ourselves.

Many of our trips have been surprising as well as beneficial. We have discovered everything from an Italian restaurant with live entertainment connected to a gas station, to a fine dining steak house with a beautiful view located in a rural farming area. We have visited interesting and historical small towns from Clinton to Edgefield with some comparatively larger ones thrown in between. We’ve enjoyed talking with servers, restaurant owners and local patrons, who often share their first-hand perspective of small-town life. What’s more, these mini road trips down rural highways are free from the demands of work and home, lending themselves to uninterrupted and often meaningful conversations between us.

We highly recommend no-plan date nights! Are you up for the adventure? Where will you end up? It all depends on how you answer the question “Left or right?”.

12 January/February 2026

Take Control of Your Goals the Natural Way. Injection-Free Support.

NATURE’S GLP-1.

GLP-1 Pro helps support: ✔ Natural GLP-1 promotion ✔ Reduced cravings & appetite control ✔ Healthy, steady weight management

Don’t Miss Our New Year’s Promo Regular Price: $49.99 New Year’s Promo: $39.99 (January & February Only)

Grab Yours Today!

COLUMBIA 4840 Forest Drive Suite 15 A Columbia (803) 454-7700 GarnersColumbia GarnersMidlands

garnersnaturallife.com

LEXINGTON 5166 Sunset Blvd Suite C Lexington (803) 973-3001 GarnersLexington GarnersMidlands

DEDICATED TO SERVING OUR CLIENTS! Honest and Compassionate at Every Stage

Estate Planning Trust and Probate Estates Elder and Family Law

Happy New Year

Real Estate Closings LEXINGTON OFFICE 106 East Main Street CHAPIN OFFICE 111 Columbia Ave

803-785-4529 | MccutchenMclean.com