® September/October 2026
FOREST ACRES EDITION
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PUBLISHER’S LETTER IN THE ACRES THIS MONTH
Publisher Tracy Tuten Copy Editor Marilyn Thomas Design and Production Kristina Parella Volunteer Coordinator Paige Youmans Contributing Writers Lynnsey Baker Lauren Delk Rodman Frost Chris Hadley Kelly Shank Cameron Soltysiak Guy Smith Photographers Jessica Meetze Sales Tracy Tuten Tracy@OurTownNow.com 839-205-0717 Our Town Magazine (Vol. 1. Ed.5.) 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.
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2 September/October 2026
S
chool has started, and some routines have been established for both kids and adults. Since there are so many children that rely on the internet for entertainment and school, we wanted to provide a few technology tips for parents. In this edition, you will find information on equipping you and your teens on how to stay safe in the “Digital Jungle.” Cyber-bullying and online chat rooms are at our kids’ fingertips, and it is up to parents to be aware of their children’s activities online. Our Town Magazine is passionate about helping parents keep their children safe and happy. We hope every parent finds this piece educational, and we look forward to hearing from you with any other suggestions you may have! If you do not know Lauren Delk, she’s an exceptional woman. Lauren has graciously shared her cancer story with us in this edition. I think every person has had some sort of experience with cancer, be it having it themselves or knowing someone who has. The multitude of emotions is very personal for each one. Lauren tells her story and shares how her faith is at the center of her journey. As hospice care is a stage of life that no one looks forward to, we wanted to bring you this inspiring story of a son’s devotion to his mother. It is beautifully written and comes straight from his heart. Chris Bradley shares his mother’s life and her final moments with us and reminds us all that hospice care is an important decision that can bring comfort to everyone involved. Now…Are you ready for some foootballlll??? I have been hearing from so many people about how they are counting down the days until football season begins, and AC Flora football graces our cover this month! For all of you, please enjoy their schedule as well as USC’s and Clemson’s. Please remember to keep the banter friendly, and I hope you enjoy some amazing food and even better company this season! We encourage you to support the businesses within these pages, as they are the ones who keep this publication hitting nearly 17,000 mailboxes in your area, and we could not be more grateful for their continued support. Supporting your local businesses is supporting your community, and that is the mission of Our Town Magazine. If you would like any information on partnering with us, please reach out to me at 839-205-0717. I look forward to hearing from you! As always, I hope to see you out and about!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
6 In the Acres…
K-9 Retires and School Starts
8 Quiet Grace
10 Digital Jungle
15 Football Season
16 Day Trip Adventures 18 Chef's Selections
A Son’s Devotion
USC & Clemson Football
Online Safety
Apple Picking
12 Living Faithfully One Day at a Time
Spooky and Sweet Little Treats
4 Local Events 20 Inspiration OurTownNow.com 3
EVENTS
Local Events: September/October Things to do in and around Our Town! HIGHLIGHTED EVENT FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23 Freaky Friday Halloween Carnival Satchel Ford Elementary School 5901 Satchelford Rd., Columbia 5:30pm-8pm This family-friendly Halloween celebration brings the elementary school and the Forest Acres community together for an evening of games, costumes, food, and fun! Proceeds help provide classroom supplies, equipment and other resources for students and teachers. SFPTO.org
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 Main Street Mimosa FestivalTM Columbia Museum of Art 1515 Main St., Columbia 3pm-8pm Enjoy an ultimate day party featuring refreshing mimosas, DJ and live music, stylish crowds, and unforgettable vibes. Gather your friends for an afternoon of great drinks and entertainment at this downtown celebration.
ExperienceColumbiaSC.com
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 James Taylor Concert Colonial Life Arena 801 Lincoln St., Columbia Doors open at 6pm Legendary singer-songwriter James Taylor brings his timeless hits and signature sound to the stage for an unforgettable evening of music, storytelling, and classic performances at the Colonial Life Arena. ColonialLifeArena.com
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20
Columbia’s 39th Annual Greek Festival Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral 1931 Sumter St., Columbia Times Vary Immerse yourself in Greek culture with authentic food, music, dancing, shopping, and activities for all ages at this beloved Columbia tradition that is filled with heritage, hospitality, and fun. ColumbiasGreekFestival.com
4 September/October 2026
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 Koe Wetzel: The Night Champion World Tour Colonial Life Arena 801 Lincoln St., Columbia Doors open at 5:45pm Experience an unforgettable night of country-rock music as Koe Wetzel brings his Night Champion World Tour to the stage with powerful performances of fan favorites in this high-energy live show. ColonialLifeArena.com
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20
Midlands Fall Arts & Crafts Market SC State Farmers Market 3483 Charleston Hwy., West Columbia Times vary Shop the Midlands Fall Arts & Crafts Market featuring 150+ artisans, crafters, and local businesses offering handmade gifts, home décor, jewelry, artwork, specialty foods, and more. Enjoy free admission, free parking, and familyfriendly fun! LakeMurrayCountry.com
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6
Cinderella Koger Center for the Arts 1051 Greene St., Columbia 7:30pm Step into Cinderella’s magical world with a breathtaking Broadway-style ballet performed by the United European Ballet Company. This amazing production features exquisite costumes, beautiful choreography, timeless romance, and enchanting storytelling for audiences of all ages. ClassicalArts.net
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30
Boo at the Zoo Riverbanks Zoo & Garden 500 Wildlife Pkwy., Columbia 6pm-9pm Celebrate Halloween with trick-or-treating, festive decorations, animal encounters, themed activities, costumes, and plenty of family-friendly fun during this annual fall tradition at the zoo.
Three Rivers Bridge Dinner Gervais Street Bridge 672-676 Gervais St., Columbia 3pm-8pm Gather for the Prisma Health Three Rivers Bridge Dinner, a signature Midlands event featuring a memorable bridgeside meal, local cuisine, live entertainment, breathtaking scenic views, and community connection honoring the region’s waterways. ThreeRiversBridgeDinner.com
Riverbanks.org
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25
12th Annual Therapalooza Goodman Building 1200 Rosewood Dr., Columbia 7:30pm-10:30pm The 12th Annual Therapalooza: The Greatest Show in the Southeast is a charity fundraiser benefiting The Therapy Place, featuring circus entertainment, delicious food and drinks, live auctions, and an unforgettable evening of impact. TheTherapyPlace.org
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10 Dancing with the Stars of Columbia Lex2 Performing Arts Center 3205 Platt Springs Rd., West Columbia 7:30pm Dancing with the Stars of Columbia pairs local leaders with professional ballroom dancers for an evening of entertainment and friendly competition while raising funds for Breakthrough T1D to support Type 1 diabetes research. DancingWithThe StarsOfColumbia.org
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24 Mayor’s Walk and Run Against Domestic Violence Finlay Park 930 Laurel St., Columbia 9am Mark the 20th anniversary of the Mayor’s Campaign Against Domestic Violence with a community walk and 5K run to bring residents together to raise awareness, support survivors, and stand united against domestic violence.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31 SC Korean Festival Columbia Korean United Presbyterian Church 1412 Richland St., Columbia 10am-5pm Celebrate Korean culture with traditional performances, K-Pop, cultural exhibits, family activities, and authentic cuisine featuring favorite dishes and desserts. ColumbiaKCPC.org
PublicRelations. ColumbiaSC.gov
OurTownNow.com 5
COMMUNITY
In The Acres
Celebrating Service and School Spirit
T
Forest Acres Retires Police Force K9 Indy
he Forest Acres Police Department (FAPD) is celebrating the retirement of K9 Indy after four years of dedicated service to the department and the local community. During her time in Forest Acres, she grew to be much more than a member of the department—she became a familiar and beloved face at community events throughout the city and a wonderful ambassador for FAPD’s commitment to community policing. Before joining FAPD, Indy served with the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, and she is retiring after working beyond the typical length of service for a police K9. Forest Acres City Council recently recognized Indy and her handler, Sgt. Louis Gantt, with a special resolution to honor their service and partnership. The best news is that Indy will not be going far. Council also approved Gantt’s adoption of Indy, allowing the longtime partners to be together from now on. After years of serving the Forest Acres community, Indy has certainly earned some time to relax, enjoy plenty of treats, and spend her days with her favorite person. Thank you, Indy, for four years of faithful service to Forest Acres! We wish you a long, happy, and well-deserved retirement.
6 September/October 2026
Back to School Brings the Return of Friday Night Lights The back-to-school season in Forest Acres brings classrooms buzzing with excitement, buses and car lines back to neighborhood streets, and families settling into new routines. It also marks the return of Friday night lights for the A.C. Flora Falcons. The Falcons enter the 2026 season with plenty of momentum after one of the most successful athletic years in school history. During the 2025-26 school year, A.C. Flora claimed the Class AAAA Carlisle Cup, recognizing the Falcons as South Carolina’s top overall Class AAAA athletic program. Leading the way were state championships in boys tennis and girls baseball, competitive cheerleading, soccer, and tennis. Flora’s softball and boys lacrosse teams also earned state runner-up finishes. The Carlisle Cup reflects excellence across every athletic program and showcases the dedication of A.C. Flora’s student athletes, coaches, and supporters. Whether you are a current student, proud alumnus, parent, or lifelong resident, Friday nights at Memorial Stadium this fall are a returning tradition with high hopes for another award-winning year of Falcon athletics.
The excitement extends beyond the football field and across the Flora campus each fall. From its award-winning tennis teams and one of the state’s premier cross-country programs to competitive volleyball, golf, swimming, diving, and cheerleading, these teams continue A.C. Flora’s proud tradition of excellence both in competition and in the classroom. Of course, back-to-school season is about much more than athletics. Forest Acres is home to some of the Midlands’ highest performing schools, including Satchel Ford Elementary, Brockman Elementary, Forest Lake Elementary, Crayton Middle, and Dent Middle. We are proud that our students continue to excel in academics, fine arts, leadership, and community service. As students return to school, the Forest Acres Police Department also encourages drivers to help keep everyone safe. Remember to slow down in school zones, watch for children at bus stops and crosswalks, and give yourself a few extra minutes during morning and afternoon commutes. A little patience goes a long way in helping ensure every student arrives safely when going to and from school.
2026 A.C. FLORA VARSITY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE Date
Opponent
Location
Aug. 21 Aug. 27 Sept. 4 Sept. 11 Sept. 25 Oct. 2 Oct. 9 Oct. 16 Oct. 23 Oct. 30
White Knoll High School Gilbert High School Midland Valley High School Camden High School River Bluff High School Lancaster High School Lugoff-Elgin High School Richland Northeast High School Westwood High School Dreher High School
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FINDING SOLACE
Her Last Show of Strength By Chris Hadley
M
y mom was a fiery, tiny, beautiful dark-haired lady. She grew up in a small mill town in South Carolina with a single mom. Her father, who was a brilliant electrician, was also a raging alcoholic, so her parents divorced early. This was the start of a terrible cycle, as she would later suffer the same fate as her mother. Mom met Dad while out on the town one night, across the mighty Savannah River in Augusta, Georgia. Young and blonde, Dad was recently stationed at Fort Gordon and preparing for deployment to Vietnam when he respectfully introduced himself to my mother. Boy, did they hit it off! They were quickly married, and I would make my entrance into this world nine months later. When Dad returned from Vietnam, Mom said he was never the same. He fell into a destructive cycle of alcohol abuse and violence. He left and returned several times before their divorce. My mom worked her tail off to try to provide a good education for me. In all the years after my dad left, she never remarried or even dated another man. I was never sure if this was for my sake or if she was truly heartbroken. I left home after high school to come to the “big city” of Columbia, South Carolina. (All these years later, I realize that it ain’t that big of a city.) Eventually, I was married and had two beautiful children of my own. My mom, who became “Nana,” was on cloud nine. My children could not have had a more loving and caring grandmother! When the cancer diagnosis came, it shook everything. Lung cancer, they said. Then it spread, stealing more of her than we were ready to lose. But she fought. God, did she fight! Up until that Monday, when hospice was due to arrive, she was still herself—cracking jokes, rolling her eyes at the fuss we made over her, pretending she wasn’t in pain, even when we could see it in her eyes. She was brave, not for herself, but for us. Sometimes you start to grieve whilst the person is still
8 September/October 2026
here, but ultimately, you have to respect what the dying needs, and not what those who will be left behind want. Hospice arrived that day, carrying with them a hospital bed, tubes, and the unspoken truth we were all too scared to say out loud. When they set the bed up in the living room, she looked at it and then at me and shook her head. “I know what that bed means,” she said, her voice softer than I’d ever heard it. I wanted to lie, to tell her it was just for comfort, but we both knew better. She refused at first, sitting in her usual chair, hands folded like she could will away what was coming. But her body, once so strong, was failing her. By nightfall, she was too weak to fight the inevitable. I held her hand as she lay down, the weight of the moment pressing against my chest. The next couple of days blurred after that—with the hum of voices, the quiet shuffling of feet, the sound of her breathing, shallow and slower each time I listened. Then came Thursday. The room was quiet. Too quiet. I reached for her hand, but it wasn’t warm like it should have been. She was gone. Just like that. I sat there for a long time, holding onto the hand that had held mine through every scraped knee, every heartbreak—every moment of my life. She had been strong until the very end. And even in death, she left us with the greatest lesson of all: how to be brave. I will never forget the care and love that the ladies from hospice care showed our family. Hospice workers are truly remarkable souls, carrying a quiet strength and compassion that most could never fathom. They step into the hardest moments of life, not to fix the unfixable, but to bring comfort, dignity, and peace when everything feels unbearable. These components gently guide patients to find solace, love, acceptance, and support in their final moments, when nothing and no one else can comfort them. If you know someone who is a hospice care worker, give them a hug. They deserve it!
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OurTownNow.com 9
TECHNOLOGY
Play It Safe in the Digital Jungle Protecting Young Minds By Rodman Frost
I
t’s 2026, and kids are online endlessly. It’s their everyday world—one where they learn, play, socialize, and even shop. And more and more often, they’re doing it unsupervised. Their digital lives are often a hidden world, and buried beneath the shiny surface of media reels and gaming chats lies a dark side of bullies, scams, and other perils. Lisa Kejr with Lighthouse for Life, an organization dedicated to eradicating human trafficking, explains: “I work for an organization that fights sex trafficking, and the unfortunate reality is that traffickers are choosing to use social media and technology as their gateway of choice to connect with thousands of vulnerable, innocent individuals and lure them into a life of bondage. The best way to protect our youth is by being aware of how they are using their technology, setting clear boundaries for its use, and investing in them through time and conversations that let them know that they can share with you about anything.” The digital age is here to stay, so we can’t shut that door—but we can guard the gates. So, how do we keep our youth safe without confining them to a wi-fi-proof bubble? How can we manage this issue without smothering them? The tips below provide some practical guidelines for every family to consider.
SET THE RULES EARLY
Boundaries must be set, and it begins with a no-nonsense conversation about trust and responsibility. Sure, they might roll their eyes and push back, but they need this, so establish guidelines that make sense and are enforceable. For example, regulate screen time usage, identify apps that are off-limits, and explain about inappropriate behavior. This isn’t just about restricting access; it’s about giving them a map that’s clearly marked with “danger zones.” The sooner you set those rules, the better… because the internet is forever.
10 September/October 2026
CREATE A TECH CONTRACT
A little accountability goes a long way. Instead of imposing rules that may cause friction, why not create a family tech contract together? This agreement clearly lays out both their responsibilities and yours. This contract might cover when and how long they can use their devices and, just as important, what the consequences will be if the rules are broken. This approach engages them in the process, lays out the ground rules from the start, and is less about punishment and more about mutual understanding. This contract should be revised as they grow older and more mature, and as the rules evolve, make sure they’re still part of the discussion.
PROTECT THEIR PRIVACY
You wouldn’t let a stranger wander into your house and poke around your things, so don’t let this happen online. Teach your child what they shouldn’t be sharing: location, personal information, pictures, passwords, etc. They need to know that everything they put online is a breadcrumb that leads back to them. Start by explaining the concept of a “digital footprint” and how, even if something feels fleeting or private, it’s never really gone. If they understand that there’s no such thing as complete privacy, they might be more careful about what they post.
USE PARENTAL CONTROLS
Build some digital fences by implementing parental controls to do the heavy lifting. This is your first line of defense, since you can’t watch their every move 24/7. Whether it’s managing screen time, blocking inappropriate content, or tracking their browsing habits, parental controls give you the power to step in when things get dicey. Also, take advantage of privacy settings, as every major platform allows you to lock down your kid’s account to private mode, limiting who can see their posts, comment, or send messages. Then, there are the big guns: thirdparty apps that constantly monitor everything—messages, social posts, and online interactions—and raise red flags when something’s up. They’ll even send notifications if a child is talking
to someone inappropriate for their age, intellect, or maturity. But remember, parental controls aren’t a crutch; they’re a supplement. You will still need to have those open, often awkward conversations occasionally.
MAINTAIN OPEN COMMUNICATION
Social media is the wild frontier. It’s where your kid might make a viral reel or take a virtual call with a friend across the world. But it’s also where things can get weird. Strangers can “slide” into DMs (direct messages) and comment on photos and even manipulate situations without your knowledge. Open communication is key. You can make social media a family affair by joining the same platforms. Also, ask them to show you their profile, their posts, and their online friends. This doesn’t need to be invasive; it’s about showing interest and, again, setting clear guidelines. When you are communicating about potential problems, they’re less likely to stumble into dangerous territory.
PREVENT CYBERBULLYING
Cyberbullying is everywhere, and it’s ugly. According to Cyberbullying Research Center data, one in five teens report being bullied online. It’s not just something that happens to other kids; it could be happening in your household right now, or your child could be involved in taunting others. When you create a space where they feel comfortable talking about these types of incidents—without fear of shame or criticism—you open the door for them to share what is going on in their digital world. And this gives you an opportunity to step in before situations spiral out of control.
PROTECT VS. CONTROL
At the end of the day, the goal is balance. You’re not locking them in a digital cage, but you’re not letting them wander unsupervised through a minefield either. It’s about protecting their innocence while allowing them to grow, learn, and have fun. The internet isn’t going anywhere, and neither are the dangers. So, equip them with the right tools to handle it and show them they’ve got a safety net. Remember: The stakes are high, but with the right rules, tools, and conversations, you can make sure your child’s online life remains a safe and enriching experience. Stay vigilant, stay involved, and above all, stay present.
It’s About How You Live It’s not easy to talk about the end of life. Lutheran Hospice wants your wishes — and your family’s — to guide the journey. Tell your Doctor that you choose Lutheran Hospice, a non-profit, faithbased ministry providing compassionate end-of-life care for patients and families of all faiths and beliefs.
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COMMUNITY
A New Song Continued Hope By Lauren Delk
W
e all love stories with a happy ending, don’t we? We long to see wrongs made right, relationships work out, and sickness healed. If I would have written my story just a few short years ago, it would have included a breast cancer chapter with a happy ending. But today, my story continues as a 40-year-old wife and mother living with incurable stage IV metastatic breast cancer. My story is now one of choosing hope, peace, and joy, regardless of how the chapter may end. My cancer journey began a decade ago with an early-stage breast cancer diagnosis when I was 29 years old. Adam and I were newly engaged, and our wedding date that was months away turned into me walking down the aisle just a few weeks after the phone call confirming “It's cancer.” Most of our first year of marriage was spent in hospitals and waiting rooms. After chemotherapy, a mastectomy, and radiation, I could
12 September/October 2026
not have been more ready to see 2015 come to an end. Throughout the next few years, my hair grew back, and I counted down the years until we would be able to try to start a family. The years were long as I watched my friends have children and many survivor friends begin to have recurrences. I desperately longed for one scenario and greatly feared the other. But with every year that passed, I became more and more hopeful that I had truly beat cancer.
In 2021, I found out that I was pregnant. I savored every moment of those nine months of carrying our child, constantly marveling at the goodness of God. We chose not to find out if we were having a boy or girl, and it was the best surprise on March 19, 2022, when we welcomed our baby boy, Jackson. Our first year with him was filled with all of the wonder, joy, and laughter we had hoped for. The verse we chose for Jackson’s life was Psalm 40:3: “He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him” (NIV). Jackson’s life was a new song, and I couldn’t have written a more perfect ending if I tried. Nearly nine years had passed, and we were fully embracing this sweet season of life, raising our son with cancer far behind us. Then, one afternoon with our oneyear-old on my lap, cancer violently collided with the happy ending we thought we were living. I reached up and felt a swollen lymph node in my neck, and on November 14, 2023, I was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. This is cancer that began in the breast and moved to other parts of the body and is also referred to as MBC, late stage, or stage IV. There was another level of devastation that came with this diagnosis: This form of breast cancer is treatable, but not curable.
In 2015, there was a plan and a cure. This time, there was a plan, but no cure. There is no end date, no timeline, no dates on the calendar to work towards, no last chemo, and no bells to ring. I will be on treatment for the rest of my life, with the goal being to give me more time. How much time? When will this treatment stop working? How old will Jackson be? This remains one of the hardest things to wrestle with while living with stage IV cancer—the constant uncertainty and knowing that the uncertainty does not center around “if,” but “when.”
Most of us operate with an assumption that our lives stretch out before us in decades. We lightheartedly make comments about the future because we assume that we will be a part of it. “When our son graduates” or “When we retire” are brought up commonly in conversation. But with a stage IV cancer diagnosis, you become acutely aware of a life ahead for those you love that does not include you. Though this is my reality, my reality is also that God makes it possible for me to live in this tension, to sit in the uncertainty but not be consumed by fear. He provides
for us now, and I trust that He will still be providing in those years ahead. One morning as I sat crying in the infusion center, my nurse approached me with an application for the Rainbow Restoration Charity Golf Classic, which benefits local mothers battling stage IV cancer. Applications were due the following day, and I was ecstatic when I received the call from Heather Mattingly, the tournament coordinator, that I had been selected as a beneficiary. The impact that this event and community continues to have on our family is indescribable. It taught us early on to notice God’s presence and provision above all else. Today, nearly three years later, I am immensely grateful to still be on my first line of treatment. I have been present for big and small moments as a mom, from potty training to the first day of preschool. We were able to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary and my 40th birthday together. I have scans several times a year to monitor the effectiveness of this treatment, with our hope being that we will see stability and no progression of the cancer. When there is progression, a new line of treatment will be necessary. Treatments are limited, and when options run out, so does time. Only a small percentage of funds raised for breast cancer are actually allocated for research to help develop treatments that are desperately needed in the MBC community. If you are looking for a way to make a meaningful impact this October, please consider donating to MBC research through an organization called METAvivor. Furthermore, one in three women diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer will have a later recurrence, regardless of early detection. When you support this research, you are helping not only those of us currently living with MBC, but potentially someone else you know who was diagnosed at an earlier stage. Although this new song looks nothing like we imagined, we trust that it does not have to have a happy ending to be beautiful. If we stay in today and continue trusting Christ, we will always have enough. When hope cannot be found in an outcome, a cure, or a happy ending, this becomes the gift worth cherishing— just one more day to be a wife, mom, daughter, sister, and friend.
OurTownNow.com 13
Hospice Care: It's About How You Live By Denise Dickinsen
W
hen people hear the word hospice, they often assume it means giving up. In reality, hospice is about choosing comfort, dignity, and quality of life when a cure is no longer the goal. It's about making the most of every moment—a philosophy that reflects a simple truth: it's about how you live. Hospice care focuses on the whole person, addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual needs while providing compassionate support for family members. A team of nurses, physicians, social workers, chaplains, nursing assistants, and trained volunteers works together to help individuals remain
as comfortable and independent as possible. One of hospice's greatest strengths is that care comes to the patient. Whether someone lives at home, with family, or in a senior living community, hospice services are designed to meet people where they are. The care team manages pain and symptoms, coordinates medical equipment and medications related to the hospice diagnosis, and offers education and encouragement to loved ones who are serving as caregivers. Hospice is also about living fully. It creates opportunities for meaningful conversations, treasured family gatherings, quiet moments of reflection, and the reassurance that no one has to navigate this journey alone. Rather than focusing on the time that remains, hospice helps people focus on what matters most during that time. Many families say they wish they had learned about hospice sooner. Starting the conversation early gives individuals and their loved ones time to
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understand their options, express their wishes, and benefit from the comfort and support hospice can provide. Hospice care believes every stage of life deserves compassionate, person-centered care. Hospice is not about counting the days—it's about helping people live each day with comfort, purpose, and dignity. Because even at life's final chapter, it's about how you live. Interested in Learning More? Connect with Nikki Ray at Rice Estate: 803.691.5735. or Cathy Raynor at Lutheran Hospice: 803.461.0456.
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.
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14 September/October 2026
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USC GAMECOCKS DATE
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Sep. 5 Sep. 12 Sep. 19 Sep. 26 Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7 Nov. 14 Nov. 21 Nov. 28
Kent State Towson Mississippi State Alabama Kentucky Florida OFF Tennessee Oklahoma Texas A&M Arkansas Georgia Clemson
Home Home Home Away Home Away OFF Home Away Home Away Home Away Game Times TBD
CLEMSON TIGERS DATE
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OurTownNow.com 15
TRAVEL
Head to the Mountains Orchards Await By Guy Smith
S
eptember brings Labor Day, football, an occasional break in the sweltering central South Carolina weather, and loads of free community concerts and events. It also means that the mountains begin to call those that listen. One of the joys of living in Lexington County is the ability to be at the beach or on a mountain within a matter of a few hours. Either direction brings beauty and a welcome diversion, but September in the mountains means it is apple time! My wife and I have, for years, planned a fall trip (or two) to the South Carolina upstate or the mountains of Western North Carolina. We plan time to sightsee, dine, shop for antiques that we do not need, attend a play at Flat Rock Playhouse, and buy bags of delicious apples. Every year, we frantically check the orchard websites to find out when our favorite varieties are available, hope that we can find a good play during the same ripening window, buy tickets, make a hotel reservation, and head up I-26. On the way, we have a low-key competition to see who spots a mountain first (Little Mountain in Newberry County does not count). Occasionally, but only briefly, we take a ride on the Blue Ridge Parkway (since my wife gets carsick even quicker than I do). It is not a fancy or extravagant getaway, but it is what we do. The play is always entertaining and interesting for all ages (support live theatre wherever you are). We always find something to buy at an
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antique shop, despite the fact that we are running out of space to put things. Last year in Hendersonville, I found a pottery jug from Jugtown Pottery in Seagrove, North Carolina. I knew the value better than the seller, for once, and I got a real steal. I think I got it for about ten dollars less than its value. Small victories matter. The apples, apple fritters, apple cider, and apple donuts are always delicious. I favor EverCrisp and Gala, but it’s all a matter of taste. One of my best buddies likes rock-hard Arkansas Blacks. As with everything else in life, everyone has a right to be wrong. So, as the temperature begins to drop, and you begin to think that there must be somewhere with a real fall season, load up the car and head to the hills. Make it a day, a weekend getaway, or a longer stay. Keep the agenda simple, and take in the sights, tastes, and aromas. If you drive far enough up, you can begin to see the leaves changing. If you like to hike or camp, you have hundreds of options. If you want to get as high as you can east of the Rockies, head to Mt. Mitchell. If you take a child, or better yet, a grandchild, you can pick your own apples. Whatever you do, make it a point to slow down. The mountains aren’t going anywhere. They have been there for eternity. If you miss something, you can head back next fall. We might see you there!
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CHEF'S SELECTIONS
Spooky and Sweet Little Treats Whether you are just getting into the spirit of Halloween before taking the family trick-or-treating or throwing a full-blown monster bash, the recipes below have all the ingredients you need to create some frightening and festive fun.
Oreo Truffle Eyeballs
Ghostly Hot Chocolate
INGREDIENTS:
INGREDIENTS:
1 package Oreo cookies (about 36 cookies) 8 oz. cream cheese, softened 15 oz. chocolate melting wafers 2-3 oz. white chocolate melting wafers
4 cups whole milk ½ cup heavy cream ½ cup sweetened cocoa powder 4 oz. semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped 1 tsp. vanilla extract Pinch of salt Ghost-shaped marshmallows
DIRECTIONS: Add one package of Oreo cookies to a food processor, and pulse into fine crumbs. Transfer crumbs to a large mixing bowl, and add softened cream cheese. Stir until mixture is smooth and fully combined. Roll the dough into 1½-inch balls and arrange them on a small baking sheet lined with wax paper. Place them in the refrigerator and chill for one hour. Melt the chocolate in a candy melting pot, and then switch to the warm setting so the chocolate remains smooth while dipping. Using a dipping tool, coat each Oreo ball in the melted chocolate, making sure to cover it entirely. Place each truffle on the paper-lined baking sheet, and allow the chocolate to harden. Melt a small amount of white chocolate until smooth and transfer it to a piping bag. Pipe small white dots onto each chocolate-coated Oreo ball to create the eyes, adding tiny chocolate dots for pupils. Let the decorated truffles set completely before serving.
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DIRECTIONS: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sweetened cocoa powder and salt. Gradually whisk in about ½ cup of the milk until smooth, and then add the remaining milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently, until hot and steaming, but do not boil. Stir in the chopped semi-sweet chocolate until melted completely and mixture is smooth and creamy. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour hot chocolate into mugs, and top with a ghost-shaped marshmallow for a spooky Halloween finish.
Halloween Puff Pastry Mummies
Monster Eye Eggs
INGREDIENTS:
6 large eggs ¼ cup mayonnaise 1 tsp. yellow mustard 1 tsp. apple cider vinegar ⅛ tsp. salt or to taste ⅛ tsp. black pepper Red food coloring 6 black olives, halved
1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed 6 hot dogs, cut in half 1 egg 1 Tbsp. water “Everything Bagel” seasoning 24 candy eyes Small amount of yellow mustard or cream cheese Ketchup or mustard (for dipping)
DIRECTIONS: Preheat the oven to 400°F, and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Unfold the puff pastry, and slice it into ¼-inch wide strips using a pizza cutter. Wrap each hot dog half with the pastry strips; overlap the strips slightly to create a bandaged look, and leave a small opening near the top for the mummy's face. Whisk together the egg and water, and brush this egg wash over the pastry lightly. Sprinkle “Everything Bagel” seasoning on the pastry, and bake for 15-18 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Let the mummies cool for about five minutes before attaching the two candy eyes (in the face area) using a tiny dot of mustard or cream cheese. Serve warm with ketchup and mustard for dipping.
INGREDIENTS:
DIRECTIONS: Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with water. Once the water starts boiling, remove from heat and cover. Let sit for 10-12 minutes, and then transfer eggs to an ice bath to cool before peeling. Slice peeled eggs in half lengthwise, and carefully remove the yolks. Place yolks in a bowl, and mash until smooth. Then, add mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper to the yolks, and blend until the filling is combined and creamy. Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg white halves. After filled, use a toothpick dipped in red food coloring to draw thin lines across the surface of each egg white to create a spooky veined effect. Place a halved black olive in the center of the yolk to complete the eyeball. Chill until ready to serve.
OurTownNow.com 19
INSPIRATION
Peace & Contentment By Kelly Shank
Y
ears ago, I remember walking past a preschool as I was pushing my son in his stroller. While I watched the children playing outside, I stood there and cried. We had made the decision to remove our son from preschool to focus on therapies at that time. I recall feeling completely at a loss because all I wanted was to feel like everyone else: I wanted my child to be on that playground, and I did not want the life that I was having to walk. Fast forward almost seven years—and an autism diagnosis later—and I still get hit with that same wave of feelings sometimes. It makes me panic and feel like I need to control something. Insecurity, jealousy, and anger all hit me like a ton of bricks, and it seems like the weight might crush me. Those moments are fewer and farther between now, but that need and desire to look like everyone else can still sneak up and bite. When I look around, I realize others may be dealing with their own struggles, even though it may not be obvious. While I know a diagnosis can add layers, the “keeping up” mentality is something I think we all can wrestle with. I just think for some, it’s easier to attain than others. My son’s diagnosis has taught me about 700 things, but one of the biggest areas I have been humbled in is learning how to be content. I think this humbling process (that is ongoing) has taught me that keeping up— or trying to—is a constant and losing battle because nothing will ever be enough, and there will always be something more to try to gain or achieve. Inevitably, that pressure we put on ourselves is often transferred to our children. Here is what I know: Somehow Jesus supernaturally allows us to find peace and contentment, regardless of circumstances. If my hope ended in the here and now, I would be continuously grasping for straws. By His grace, however, my hope does not end here. I can live my life with the blessed assurance that my hope is in the eternal, and anything I might tangibly gain here will one day be lost. If I can cling to this, and teach my son to cling to this, then I can close my eyes each night knowing I have more than I could ever imagine.
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Saturday, October 17, 2026
Fall Health Fair AT GARNER'S NATURAL LIFE
G
arner's Natural Life invites the community to its annual Fall Health Fair on Saturday October 17th , 2026, at the Columbia location. This all-day event has become a favorite among customers, offering exceptional savings, hands-on education, and a joyful celebration of health and community.
The main festivities will take place from 9am-1pm, when shoppers can enjoy 20% off the entire store. From 1pm-8pm the savings continue with 15% off the entire store. These discounts apply even to items that are already on sale, making this one of the best opportunities of the year to stock up on supplements and wellness essentials. What truly sets the Fall Health Fair apart is the experience. Customers can expect hundreds of free samples, live product demonstrations, gift basket and gift card raffles and on-site representatives from trusted supplement and wellness brands. These experts are available to answer questions, offer education, and help customers find products that best support their individual health goals. The Fall Health Fair has become more than just a sale— it's a customer appreciation day. Garner's began hosting health fairs in 2010 at the Columbia location. Over the years, the tradition has grown with Lexington now hosting its yearly event in the Spring and Columbia location hosting it in the Fall. These events are a heartfelt way to give back to the community that has made Garner's Natural Life what it is today. As a family-owned, locally operated business, Garner's exists because of the continued support of its customers. Every purchase supports a South Carolina family business, not a big-box retailer or online marketplace. That local support allows the store to continue doing what it does best—offering education, guidance, and thoughtfully curated natural health products. Health is one of life's greatest treasures, and the team at Garner's Natural Life is honored that customers trust them to be a part of that journey. The Fall Health Fair is a way to say thank you—for the trust, the loyalty, and the opportunity to support the community's wellness goals
We look forward to seeing you on October 17th! Columbia Store
4840 Forest Drive Suite 15A, Columbia 29204
803-454-7700
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