® November/December 2026
FOREST ACRES EDITION
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PUBLISHER’S LETTER
T
Publisher Tracy Tuten Copy Editor Marilyn Thomas Design and Production Kristina Parella Volunteer Coordinator Paige Youmans Contributing Writers Lynnsey Baker Virginia Gates Jerry Grimes Kelly Shank Marilyn Thomas Shaka Webber Photographers ESNTL Headshots Jessica Meetze Sales Tracy Tuten Tracy@OurTownNow.com 839-205-0717 Our Town Magazine (Vol. 1. Ed. 6.) 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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his year has truly flown by, and I could not be more pleased with how Forest Acres has welcomed Our Town Magazine. With our first year behind us, we look ahead to 2027 with great anticipation for making future collaborations and becoming more involved in the community. As you—the residents and businesses—know, Forest Acres is a special place. The sense of community is strong here, and it is a wonderful thing to see evidence of that pride in people of all ages, ranging from the young to the young at heart. On this cover, we bring you “Mid-State Floor Coverings.” Kayla Lamons, the owner, proudly leads this family-operated business, bringing you the best customer service and flooring options available in the area. There are several other articles within that we hope you enjoy. One was written by a dear friend, Virginia Gates. This was the last piece that she gave me before she passed in September of this year. It expresses her appreciation for family traditions and spending time with those you love, and who better understands what a gift that is than someone who graciously fought cancer for six years before her passing. I hope you take her story to heart and, in turn, treasure your family and the traditions that make it uniquely yours. She would have liked that. “Life After the Military” is a personal editorial by retired Military Police Officer Shaka Webber. He describes how he learned to define himself outside the military role, and to thrive from within using the skills the military gave him, while navigating civilian life and becoming a self-employed business owner. He tells his story in hopes that it gives others initiative and support as they too figure out how to live life after serving in the armed forces. November is National Caregivers Month, and we could not let it go by without saying a huge “THANK YOU” to every individual who bears this title. This is not an easy task, and it takes a very special person to be able to handle the emotional and physical toll needed to make a positive difference. We sincerely appreciate you all and hope that you find this article relatable and informative. Lastly, “In the Acres” is from your own Lynnsey Baker. She keeps us all informed of the special events and topics involving Forest Acres. Lynnsey has been a huge cheerleader for Forest Acres as well as Our Town Magazine, and we are thrilled that she is sharing the goings-on in the community with all our readers. As Our Town Magazine starts our second year in Forest Acres, I want to thank everyone who advertises with us and those who have inquired about advertising in our direct mail publication—because you are the ones who make this magazine happen! We are currently printing 17,000 and mailing over 16,000 to homes and businesses in the immediate area, and each month, we hear from readers and advertisers alike about how much they enjoy reading it from front to back, which makes this publisher’s heart happy. So, be sure to shop small this holiday season, and let’s get ready for 2027! From now until then, Our Town Magazine wishes you a Happy Thanksgiving and a Merry Christmas! As always, I hope to see you out and about!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
12 Cover Story Floored by Family
6 In the Acres…
8 Life After the Military
10 Family Traditions
16 A Caregiver’s Heart
18 Chef’s Selections
20 Inspiration
Dispatching Christmas Cheer
Honor and Servitude
Defining Yourself
Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Cloves— Oh My!
Virginia's Recipe Box
Shifting Your Focus
4 Local Events OurTownNow.com 3
EVENTS
Local Events: November/December Things to do in and around Our Town! HIGHLIGHTED EVENT TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1
Sweet Seasons Lowes Foods of Forest Acres 4711 Forest Dr., Columbia 5pm-8pm Enjoy free holiday entertainment featuring local school performers, more than 200 dancers, a martial arts demonstration, and the 282nd Army Band—plus Santa, the Grinch, children’s activities, festive fun, and more. LowesFoods.com
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8 Midlands Christmas Arts & Crafts Market SC State Farmers Market 3483 Charleston Hwy., West Columbia Times Vary Shop for unique holiday gifts and handmade treasures at this festive market featuring more than 150 local vendors, crafters, and businesses. An event open to all ages, enjoy shopping, free admission and parking, and a pet-friendly atmosphere. SCLiving.coop
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13- SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15 Columbia Princess Day Annual Craftmen’s Christmas Classic SC State Fairgrounds 1200 Rosewood Dr., Columbia Times Vary Shop a wide selection of handmade creations, fine art, jewelry, home decor, specialty gifts, and more, while supporting talented independent artists and makers. Discover unique treasures and get a head start on holiday shopping. GilmoreShows.com
Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center 1101 Lincoln St., Columbia 10am-4:30pm Enjoy a magical family-friendly experience filled with fairytale stories, songs, dancing, crafts, games, and more. Dress as your favorite character and meet beloved princesses for photos, autographs, hugs, and unforgettable memories. ColumbiaConventionCenter.com
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19 41st Annual Vista Lights The Vista 701 Gervais St., Columbia 6pm-10pm Celebrate the holidays with an evening of shopping, dining, and festive fun as local businesses open their doors for extended hours. Enjoy tree lighting, children’s activities, face painting, balloon art, Santa visits, and more. VistaColumbia.com
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20
10th Annual Bountiful Harvest Serve and Connect 8131 Brookfield Rd., Columbia 4pm Join Bountiful Harvest this Thanksgiving with take-home holiday food boxes, a free hot meal, a turkey giveaway, and a resource fair that connects families with local providers. ServeAndConnect.org
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22- TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24
Sleigh Bell Trot & Stroll Saluda Shoals Park 6071 St. Andrews Rd., Columbia Times Vary Take part in a four-mile race or family-friendly two-mile walk through millions of colorful lights and animated displays at Holiday Lights on the River. Pre-registration is required.
A Motown Christmas The Township Auditorium 1703 Taylor St., Columbia 7pm Get into the holiday spirit with the Motortown All-Stars performing beloved Motown hits, soulful vocals, dazzling choreography, flashy outfits, live brass, and signature harmonies. TheTownship.org
ICRC.net
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20SUNDAY, JANUARY 10
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23
Wild Lights Riverbanks Zoo & Garden Riverbanks Zoo & Garden 500 Wildlife Pkwy., Columbia Times Vary Stroll through the zoo this holiday season and discover more than 60 wildlife lanterns, a nightly snowfall, festive activities, photo opportunities, and visits with Santa (through December 23).
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Koger Center for the Arts 1051 Greene St., Columbia 7:30pm This 40-year holiday musical tradition, created by Grammy Award winner Chip Davis, features Mannheim Steamroller Christmas classics performed by 15 musicians on 20 different instruments, along with dazzling multimedia effects.
Riverbanks.org
KogerCenterForTheArts.com
Leanne Morgan: The Time of Our Lives Tour Colonial Life Arena 801 Lincoln St., Columbia 7pm Join comedian Leanne Morgan for relatable stories, sharp observations, and Southern charm as she shares her hilarious take on family, marriage, motherhood, and everyday life. LeanneMorgan.com
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12- SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13
Nutcracker Lex2 Performing Arts Center 3205 Platt Springs Rd., West Columbia Times Vary Performed by the Lexington Youth Ballet, experience the magic of The Nutcracker as Clara journeys through a whimsical Christmas Eve filled with enchanting music, dazzling costumes, captivating choreography, and holiday wonder. L2PAC.Lex2.org
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27 Columbia Anime-Fest DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel 2100 Bush River Rd., Columbia 10am-5pm Celebrate anime fandom with collectibles, vendors, and merchandise spanning multiple genres. Browse unique finds, connect with fellow fans, and discover treasures at this exciting convention. AnimeFests.com
OurTownNow.com 5
IN THE ACRES
More Than a Check-In
FAPD’s Contact Care Brings Connection for Forest Acres Residents By Lynnsey Baker
F
or a resident who lives alone, knowing there will be a call every morning can provide something we all need: connection. For family members who live across town, or across the country, it means one less thing to worry about. And for the officers and dispatchers on the other end of the line, it means something, too. More than just another task on a job checklist, over time, this morning contact becomes a relationship. This authentic connection is built on compassion and, yes, care—that’s the idea behind Contact Care, a free program offered by the Forest Acres Police Department (FAPD). Primarily for older residents who live alone, older couples have also occasionally enrolled. In fact, Contact Care is open to any Forest Acres resident who has a need, including health concerns, and is willing to participate. Currently, there are 12 individuals enrolled in the program. Each participant receives a special phone number to call every morning, seven days a week. The call is routed to the city’s non-emergency dispatch line. With just four dispatchers staffing the
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department around the clock, the names and voices of Contact Care participants quickly become familiar on both ends of the line. If FAPD has not heard from a participant by their designated time, an officer or department member calls them to check in. If there is still no answer, an officer goes to the resident’s home. Residents can also provide the department with a key to their home, and the location of this key is kept confidential and used only for Contact Care. If an officer cannot reach the person at the door, the key allows them to enter and make sure the resident is safe. The department also keeps a confidential file on the participant that contains important information, like medical needs and emergency contact numbers for the participant’s physician, family members, etc. “Contact Care gives our residents and their families an extra sense of security,” Police Chief Don Robinson maintains. “They know someone is checking on them every day, and if something doesn’t seem right, our officers are going to be there.” Over the years, Contact Care participants have become part of the FAPD family. Officers know them as neighbors and friends—not just names on a list. Last year, FAPD Victim Advocate Rebecca Oliver organized a Christmas drop-in, giving officers the opportunity to visit Contact Care participants at home and deliver gifts and flowers. “Being thought of is everything,”
Oliver says. “And I wanted to put words into action, surprise them, and see them smile.” Oliver knows the program from both sides. Before becoming FAPD’s victim advocate last year, she was a department dispatcher for four years and was involved with Contact Care during her everyday shift. The relationships she built with participants have continued even as she has moved into a new role with the department, and she now oversees the department’s Contact Care program. “With Contact Care, we get to know the people on a personal level—and really get to know them. They love hearing from the dispatchers and being told ‘happy birthday’ or whatever holiday it is,” explains Oliver. “Some of our contact care has no family around, so they look forward to our phone calls, and so do we. It’s a nice highlight in a day that can be chaotic and high stress.” “These residents become near and dear to us,” Robinson adds. “We care about them, and we want them to know that their police department is here for them—not just when there’s an emergency, but every day.” That’s what makes Contact Care more than a check-in. It’s community policing and compassion—in action. Interested in Contact Care? The program is free and open to any Forest Acres resident who has a need and is willing to participate. To learn more or enroll, contact the FAPD’s Crime Prevention Division at 803-782-9444 and ask for Rebecca Oliver or email her at roliver@forestacrespd.net.
OurTownNow.com 7
VETERANS
Life After the Military Defining Your Own Mission
O
By Shaka Webber
n the first day of August in 2025, I stood for a photo holding my retirement certificate alongside my DD214—my way of marking the end of 21 years of active Army service. It was a moment I had imagined countless times. I expected pride, and it was there, but what I didn’t expect was how the drive home would feel. With every mile, something shifted. The structure that had shaped my life for over two decades was now behind me. The schedule, the expectations, the constant sense of purpose—all of it had been steady for so long that I hadn’t fully considered what its absence might feel like. That afternoon, every moment seemed to carry double meaning, a final salute to what had been, and a quiet introduction to what
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would come next. When I reached my front door, the weight of it settled in. Everything I had done over those 21 years had led to this point, and now, for the first time in a long time, the path forward was entirely mine to choose. Military service prepares you for almost anything, except, perhaps, leaving it behind. It teaches flexibility, discipline, and how to approach each mission with clarity and intent. It provides not just a job, but a framework for living. There’s a rhythm to it: where to be, what to do, who you serve alongside, and why it matters. In many ways, it becomes a complete system, one that supports you physically, mentally, and professionally. As long as you remain within it, that system holds. Stepping outside of it is different. It requires you to recreate that structure on your own. For many service members, that transition can feel uncertain, even overwhelming.
The military offers programs to prepare you for civilian life. Too often, they are treated as just a few more boxes to check on the way out. In reality, they are so much more. They are a bridge between what you’ve known and what comes next. The key is to recognize that your next mission doesn’t begin after you leave—it begins while you’re still serving. Knowing my time in uniform would eventually come to an end, I made a decision early on to start preparing. While still on active duty, I pursued a degree and began building a business aligned with my long-term goals. At the time, it was something I worked on after hours, balancing it alongside my responsibilities in the Army. What I didn’t realize then was how important that decision would become. Having something already in motion gave me direction before I needed it. It wasn’t just a plan; it was a sense of purpose waiting for me on the other side of transition. During my time as a military police soldier, specializing in physical security, my role was to evaluate how well organizations protect their people, assets, and operations. I reviewed plans, inspected systems, and advised leadership on ways to strengthen their defenses. Over time, I began to notice something: Everything we were doing in the military had a direct parallel in the civilian world. Although the terminology was specific to the Army, the principles were the same. Leadership structures, accountability, risk
management, and operational planning all existed beyond the military—just under different names. For example, a commander carries responsibilities that closely mirror those of a CEO. Both are responsible for the success of the mission, the performance of their teams, and the outcomes of their organization. These realizations changed the way I viewed my own experience because the skills we develop in uniform are not limited to military environments as they are translatable. Still, even with preparation, the transition doesn’t always go according to plan. As I approached retirement, I intended to continue my service in a different capacity—as a government employee. It felt like a natural next step, and one that would allow me to stay connected to a familiar environment. But in late 2025, hiring freezes shifted that path in a way I did not anticipate. At first, it felt like a setback, but over time, it began to feel more like a new direction. The business I had started years earlier was no longer just an idea or a side pursuit—it was the path forward. What once felt uncertain became an opportunity to apply everything I had learned in a new way. Not everyone leaving the military will choose entrepreneurship (and not everyone needs to) but everyone faces the same question: What now? It’s a question that can feel daunting, but it’s also one filled with possibility. Your time in service has already equipped you with more than you may realize—discipline, adaptability, leadership, and the ability to work under pressure and as part of a team. These are not just military traits; they are qualities valued in every industry. Thus, the challenge is not to gain new skills; it is to recognize the value of the ones you already have. Too often, service members leave the military thinking, “All I know how to be is a soldier.” In reality, what they know how to be is a leader, a problem-solver, and a professional who has operated in environments where accountability matters. Those experiences carry forward. They show up in how you lead, how you build, and how you respond when things don’t go as planned. Transitioning out of the military does not mean starting over; it means starting from experience. Looking back now, I realize that the feeling I experienced on that drive home wasn’t just uncertainty, it was the understanding that, for the first time in a long time, I was stepping into a mission I would define for myself. That can be uncomfortable, but it can also be powerful. The structure may change, the environment may change, and the title may change, but the person you’ve become through your service does not— and that person is more prepared than you think. The mission isn’t over; it’s simply changed. You’ve got everything you need to succeed, so let the leader you’ve become guide your next mission to victory.
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LASTING MEMORIES
The Recipe Box A Timeless Treasure By Virginia Gates
I
rarely get a chance to watch movies. Being in the thick of midlife with a spouse, kids, a business, social engagements, and ongoing cancer treatments, my plate is quite full. Taking a couple of hours to sit down for pure, uninterrupted entertainment is a luxury that I put at the bottom of the list of things that I typically have time to do. However, one evening at dinner, a dear friend, Rob Shirley, suggested there was one movie I needed to see. As a fellow foodie who has worked in the restaurant industry his entire career, I took his words to heart, found the film on the streaming service, and sat down to relax and enjoy. The movie was “Nonnas,” a 2025 Netflix biographical comedy-drama that celebrates food, family, and life. Actor Vince Vaughn portrays Joey, the main character, who, after losing his mother, decides to risk everything and honor her memory by opening an Italian restaurant. All the while, he is holding onto a letter left by her but hesitates to open it since he knows it will be the last time she will speak to him. To be the restaurant’s chefs, he hires four “Nonnas” (Italian for grandmother), who were also his mother’s closest friends, and commissions them to cook their renowned recipes. He yearns to add a few of his mother’s own signature dishes to the menu but is unsuccessful as he does not have her recipes, only the childhood memories of what he thought they were. After many hurdles, he opens the restaurant, and although family and friends stop by to dine, the support they offer is not enough business for it to remain open. In a final effort to keep the restaurant afloat, he reaches out to food critics and numerous
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culinary publications and invites them to stop by to try his unique concept for dining. He is declined by all of them… or so he thinks. He agonizes over the decision but eventually places the “For Sale” sign in the restaurant window. Although feeling defeated about this failed endeavor, he decides to open the letter from his mother. It reads: “Joey, I wish I could have given you more. Love, Mom.” Tucked within the envelope, he also finds her cherished, hand-written recipes that he so longingly had hoped to create. With a renewed sense of purpose, he immediately goes into the kitchen to make her exclusive sauce and is transported back to his boyhood memories. Later, a friend stops by to share a glowing review published in the paper by one of the food critics. Word, of course, spreads about the restaurant, and guests start pouring in. The business is a complete success and one that is still open to this day. Yes, this inspiring and heartfelt movie is based on a true story! When Rob recommended this movie to me, what he did not know was that it was a much-needed respite during a time when I was feeling rather downhearted. That week was a particularly difficult one for me as it was the anniversary of my grandmother’s death and the same week I was diagnosed with cancer in 2020. Currently, I am undergoing treatment again, and with the upcoming holidays, I have been thinking back on this movie and the fond memories I had of my own grandmother, Virginia. Like the Nonna in the film, she had a real gift for cooking. From showing me how to preserve fresh fruits and vegetables during the summer to sitting on the porch with a bushel of
beans while talking about life (what I would consider to be the original Snapchat), food was always at the heart of my time spent with her. As far back as I can remember, our family has had holiday drop-ins. While she was able, my grandmother would prepare the entire spread of appetizers and desserts for these gatherings. She would allow my sister and me to help, and we eagerly jumped in to do her bidding. We especially enjoyed adding the final touches right before guests arrived, which included dimming the lights and lighting the candles throughout her home. I loved taking a moment, just before I heard the doorbell ring, to do one last walk-through to make sure everything was perfect. I would take in the beautiful scene and marvel in the wonder of all the intricate steps it took to be the best hostess for such a cardinal evening. Like most people, holidays with family and loved ones are extra special, and even though my grandmother is no longer with us on this earth, I still want to honor her and her memory for everything she gave to me during the time we spent together. With this in mind, I asked my aunt, who had inherited my grandmother’s recipe box, if she would share some of them with me, so I could recreate her special dishes for our family get-togethers. A short time later, after one of my cancer treatments, my aunt brought me a package. She told me it contained a meal for my family, as she understood how the treatments zapped all of my energy. I was so grateful. She also said there were some other things included that I could use but did not mention what they were.
Later that evening, tears trailed down my face as I reached into the package, and my hand touched the treasure she had brought to me. Inside, I discovered not just a few, but the entire box of my grandmother’s recipes. I could not help but smile at the unmistakable timing of recalling this meaningful movie and knowing that my grandmother’s memory would be living on through this gift. As we gather on this holiday season, may we remember those not with us, cherish the ones that are, and honor all the love shared between us. After all, that is the true recipe for life.
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COVER STORY
Mid-State Floor Coverings Changing Lives One Plank at a Time By Marilyn Thomas
W
ith more than a decade of experience in the floor covering industry, Kayla Lamons is an expert in the business, and the proud owner of the recently launched company known as Mid-State Floor Coverings. “Flooring is my passion,” Lamons asserts. “I love design, project management, and encouraging installers to go above and beyond to make the customer happy.” With such a forwardthinking, customer-centric approach—combined with the support of a strong family staff—this new enterprise has all the ingredients to succeed.
A Lexington native, Lamons recalls how several close relatives have been involved in the construction industry since her childhood. As a teen, her own strong work ethic propelled her to seek employment for herself, and she landed her first job at a masonry company located at 5341 Augusta Road. After
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attending the University of South Carolina, she eventually followed in her forefathers’ footsteps by finding positions within several flooring companies, where she gained valuable corporate experience in their operations and commercial sales departments. When she officially opened the doors
to Mid-State Floor Coverings in early October of 2026, Lamons described this new chapter in her career as “a great opportunity to follow my dreams and start my own business.” Relatedly, Lamons and her staff are excited to announce the upcoming Lexington Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting ceremony,
which is scheduled for November 17. Family involvement continues to be a fundamental foundation of this new professional enterprise, as several relatives are quite literally supporting her in this endeavor while working as key staff members of Mid-State Floor Coverings. Specifically, her father, Tim, manages products and installations, while brother, Cole, assists customers and provides estimates for commercial and residential job proposals. Bella, her sister, attends to retail customers while overseeing social media and administrative duties, and the marketing and retail sales department is directed by sister-in-law, Brittany. “I am so excited to work with my family,” Lamons states, and as a single mother, another important member who motivates her to succeed—although from behind the scenes—is her young daughter, as Lamons hopes this company will “create a legacy” for her as well. Furthermore, as a woman working in an industry that has historically been perceived as a male-dominated occupation, Lamons anticipates that this business undertaking will become a greater opportunity for the sisterhood at large. “The flooring industry, like many others, continues to evolve,” she explains. “The transactional sales models used by many large flooring retailers have shifted the focus away from the creativity, design expertise, and personal connection that are essential to the customer experience. In doing so, I believe the industry has lost some of the perspective and influence that women have historically brought to design and the home.” “I am committed to helping change that,” Lamons continues. “My goal is to create greater opportunities for women within the flooring industry and to bring a stronger emphasis on design, creativity, and the customer experience back into the business. I believe that by welcoming more women into the industry and recognizing the value of their expertise, we can help shape a more innovative, balanced, and designdriven future for flooring.” According to Lamons, purchasing flooring is not an ordinary, everyday transaction. Because she realizes her product is a long-term investment, Lamons uses her customer-service skills to personally connect with her clientele,
so she can better assist them in selecting the flooring that is optimal for their space and needs. “Our target clients are residents who are interested in affordable new flooring for their homes,” Lamons explains. “I joke that we are changing lives ‘one plank at a time,’ but making the decisions to update flooring does change our lives.” Lamons understands that people’s everyday existence is centered around their homes and maintains that simply adding a new area rug to their residence can bring “an extra layer of comfort to a dated space.” The main service that Mid-State Floor Coverings provides is the installation of a myriad of conventional and specialty flooring materials including residential carpeting, stair runners, commercial carpet and tiling, luxury vinyl plank and tile, vinyl composite tile, sheet vinyl, wall and floor tile, custom showers, sports flooring, laminate, and engineered and solid wood. Additionally, an even more unique amenity they offer is having the capability and specialized equipment needed to bind custom rugs and runners onsite at their store, a process not widely available in this region. With such an eclectic and comprehensive selection of products and services, Lamons intends to grow her company by capturing business within the retail and commercial builder markets in the Midlands and hopes to reach beyond the region into bordering metropolitan areas in neighboring states.
Serendipitously, this thriving new business is situated at 5341 Augusta Road in Lexington at the former site of the masonry company where Lamons, her grandparents, and father all worked in the past. Originally owned by Sam and Joel Temples, who were close family friends, Lamons describes the experience as “extremely nostalgic.” “We decided to move into this old home and update it into more of a commercial space with the cozy feel of a home,” she explains. With the original fireplace and bathroom tiling still intact, the presentation of their sales model area is certainly unique. Although the kitchen has been updated to showcase modern tile designs and installation, Lamons asserts, “I will not remove the 40-year-old yellow pine floors that are now antiqued from age. They are stunning and creak throughout the space, which I love!” With traffic counts of 29,000 vehicles per day, the business site has a prime location with excellent visibility. To ensure that they will not go unnoticed, Lamons has commissioned a local artist to create a large mural on one of their buildings. “We are super excited to support her and advertise using her art,” she states. Lamons herself has every intention to become as active in the community as possible. As for this new family business, the doors are open, the vision is growing, and the community is always welcome! Drop in and see what they have to offer. MidStateFloorCoverings.com
OurTownNow.com 13
TRANSFORMING HOMES, ONE PLANK AT A TIME. Find the right flooring for your style, your space and everyday life, with personal guidance and professional installation from start to finish.
Tile | LVP & LVT | Carpet | Sheet Vinyl Engineered & Solid Hardwood | Area Rugs & Stair Runners
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VISIT OUR SHOWROOM 5341 Augusta Rd., Lexington, SC Monday–Friday: 8:30am–5:30pm Saturday: 10am–2pm Sunday: By appointment only 803-205-8055 info@midstatefloorcoverings.com
FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS
This holiday season, we pray that peace and joy fill your home and your family!
We're thankful for every family who lets us make their dream kitchen a reality. Your trust inspires us to keep building beautiful, functional spaces.
CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE 803-233-3373 | TWGSC.COM 14 November/December 2026
Sharing the Care, Keeping the Connection By Denise Dickinsen
N
ovember is National Caregivers Month—a time to recognize the dedication, compassion, and resilience of those who care for family members and friends every day. Caregiving is an act of deep commitment—one that can bring both meaningful moments and real challenges over time. For many families, the decision to move someone to assisted living or long-term nursing care is not about stepping away from caregiving—it’s about redefining it. With compassionate, professional support available around the clock, the day-to-day demands of personal care, medication management, and overall wellbeing are thoughtfully handled, allowing families
to shift their focus back to what matters most: their personal relationships. Instead of being consumed by schedules, tasks, and constant worry, caregivers can spend meaningful time together—sharing meals, enjoying conversations, attending activities, or simply being present. In welcoming senior living communities designed to support the body, mind, and spirit, individuals receive attentive care while remaining engaged and connected. Caregiving doesn’t end with a move; it evolves. Families can remain as advocates, companions, and essential emotional supports. They continue to know the person in their care best— their preferences, their routines, and the small details that bring comfort and joy. By partnering with trusted care specialists to support daily needs, families can reclaim moments of connection that often get lost in the demands of caregiving. Laughter returns more easily. Visits feel less rushed. Time together becomes less about managing needs
At Rice Estate, connection comes first. Enjoy a vibrant lifestyle with meaningful experiences, supportive care, and a community that feels like family—today and as your needs evolve.
Connect with us to begin your next chapter.
and more about enjoying one another’s company. Seeking caregiving support is not a sign of giving up—it is a sign of strength and commitment. By embracing additional care, families can reduce stress, restore balance, and preserve the meaningful connections that define their caregiving journey. At its heart, caregiving is about connection—and sometimes, the best way to honor that connection is by allowing others to help carry the load. Interested in Learning More? Discover how Rice Estate supports both individuals and the families who walk alongside them. Contact Nikki Ray at 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.
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OurTownNow.com 15
REVERSING ROLES
Caring For Mom Like She Cared for You By Jerry Grimes
T
he summer of 2018 hit our family like a storm—cancer, disease, and loss pounding us in relentless waves. My wife, Lisa, and I had been married for 37 years by then, long enough to weather good times and bad. But this was different. That spring, I was diagnosed with bladder cancer. Thankfully, it was caught early, staged at zero, and highly treatable. But the C-word still knocked me flat, filling me with fear. Not long after, we learned that Lisa’s sister, Linda, was facing something far worse: Lou Gehrig’s disease or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). At the time, Linda was the primary caregiver for my 90-year-old mother-in-law, Betty. As if this were not enough, Lisa began experiencing shortness of breath on some of our weekend hikes—outings on which we would often escape to reconnect with God. Initially, we brushed it off as allergies or a cold, but after we returned home, a doctor discovered she had a pulmonary embolism. All this chaos forced us to face a hard decision: What about Betty? She had lived alone for nearly 60 years in her drafty old Indiana home, managing with the help of a monthly house cleaner and Linda for transportation to an endless array of doctors' appointments. But Linda’s decline made it clear: Betty could not stay there any longer. “Should we offer to have Mom live with us?” Lisa asked. “I don’t think we have a choice,” I said.
16 November/December 2026
Betty was not easy to persuade. She was strong, practical, and tough, the daughter of a German father, but she eventually agreed. Once we cleaned out her home and brought her to South Carolina, she seemed to embrace the change. We gave her our downstairs master suite and moved into the rooms over the garage. “I kind of like my little apartment,” she told us, smiling. And why not? My artist wife had filled her space with all of her favorite things, decorating it as a tribute to her mom’s long, rich life. Most mornings and many evenings, we would find Betty in her chair by the window with her open Bible. We often overheard her praying for each family member by name. Sometimes we even heard her cry out to God in grief over losing Linda. When COVID struck, isolation hit her especially hard. Not attending church—something she had done faithfully her whole life—left her feeling cut off. We shared the livestream, but it was not the same. To protect her, we stayed home, too, which made the season even more difficult. Caring for Betty was like raising another child, only without the cuteness or hope of independence. Yet, there were plenty of bright spots. Betty’s quirks kept us laughing. Whether it was her obsession with order, her precise routines, or her fierce opinions, she never held back. And yet she was tender, grateful, and kind. She
delighted in holidays, birthdays, and Sunday dinners with our grown children and our grandson, Jack. Every afternoon when Jack bounded through the door after school, Betty greeted him with a few of her trademark Hershey’s Kisses. To her, they were not just candy—they were medicine. “They keep me regular,” she insisted, though no doctor has ever confirmed this theory. By the summer of 2020, Betty’s health began to fail. She lost her appetite, and weight slipped away. A CT scan revealed that her gallbladder had descended and perforated her intestine. At 92, surgery was not an option, and Betty would not have chosen it anyway. We brought her home, where she spent her final week surrounded by family. With Lisa and our daughter, Christina, at her side, Betty struggled momentarily, eventually passing into eternity in her apartment. You never know how God will call you to serve. Sometimes it is through the ordinary act of simply loving someone. Caring for Betty was not easy, but it was a gift. Lisa grew closer to her mother than ever before, and our children and grandson came to know their grandmother and great-grandmother in unforgettable ways. In the end, whatever effort we gave was worth its weight in gold. Love like that never goes to waste because it leaves behind a legacy that outlives us all. If you find yourself, or someone you know, in a similar situation and in need of general direction, consider the recommendations, based on her personal experiences, that Elizabeth Trenbeath graciously shared with us. Trenbeath was the primary caregiver (along with support from a local nursing facility) for her mother, Virginia “Gina” McCuen, many years before she passed away in 2024. To address her mother’s specific needs and limitations, she developed a creative and compassionate approach to her care. She is delighted to pass some of these tips along to Our Town Magazine readers in an effort to reduce stress and confusion for families in similar situations: • Have a meeting with the family and other caregivers every three months to compare notes, express concerns, and share progress. • Organize your loved one’s belongings. It is easier for everyone to quickly and easily find clothing and accessories that match. • Find a way to worship. If your loved one cannot make it to church services, bring the celebration to them online. • Stop trying to lift your loved one. The Hoyer lift is a Godgiven invention that assists in moving your loved one from the bed to a wheelchair. • Hang pictures, set up a digital photo frame, or showcase a vibrant collage to honor your loved one’s youth. This can serve as a subtle reminder of the person’s life, contributions, aspirations, interests, and achievements. • Try not to become jaded, even when they seem to take a turn for the worst. As Mom once reminded me when I asked her for some words of wisdom, she said, “Never give up and praise the Lord.” Despite making the best of plans for the later years, there is no way for adult children to be completely prepared for reversing roles with their parents. Remember, outside help can assist with tasks that are beyond your capabilities. Establishing boundaries of what you are capable of and comfortable doing will allow you to create a comprehensive plan of care that will honor your loved one and protect your peace.
NOW
ENROLLING K*-12
Covenant Classical Christian School
offers a distinctly Christ-centered and classical education for Christian families in the Midlands (*K ½ Day Option). www.covenantcs.org
6515 N.Trenholm Rd
(803) 790-5100
OurTownNow.com 17
CHEF'S SELECTIONS
Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Cloves—Oh My! When we gather with family and friends during this holiday season, we will certainly be thankful to be spending this time together with our loved ones. And as we celebrate our blessings by breaking bread, the favorite traditional dishes described below can showcase our bounty with edibles that are sure to delight and satisfy.
Southern Sweet Potato Casserole Cranberry Brie Bites INGREDIENTS: 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed 6 oz. Brie cheese, cut into small pieces ½ cup cranberry sauce ¼ cup chopped pecans 1 egg, beaten 2 Tbsp. honey 1 Tbsp. fresh rosemary, finely chopped DIRECTIONS: Preheat the oven to 375°F, and lightly grease a mini-muffin pan. Cut the puff pastry into small squares and gently press each piece into the muffin cups. Place a small piece of Brie into each pastry cup, top with about 1 tsp. of cranberry sauce, and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Brush the exposed pastry lightly with beaten egg. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Remove from oven, and drizzle the warm bites with honey and sprinkle with fresh rosemary. Serve warm or at room temperature.
18 November/December 2026
INGREDIENTS: 3 cups sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed ½ cup granulated sugar 2 large eggs 1 tsp. vanilla extract ½ cup evaporated milk ½ tsp. ground cinnamon ½ tsp. ground nutmeg ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted 1 cup chopped walnuts ½ cup brown sugar ⅓ cup all-purpose flour DIRECTIONS: Preheat the oven to 350°F, and lightly grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, eggs, vanilla, evaporated milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ½ cup of the melted butter, and stir until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. In a separate bowl, combine walnuts, brown sugar, flour, and the remaining ¼ cup of melted butter and stir until texture is crumbly. Sprinkle this over the sweet potatoes, and bake for 30-35 minutes, until heated through and the topping is golden brown. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Glazed Holiday Ham
Cinnamon Apple Crumble
INGREDIENTS: 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (8-10 lbs.) 1 cup brown sugar ½ cup honey ¼ cup pineapple juice 2 Tbsp. Dijon mustard 1 tsp. ground cinnamon ½ tsp. ground cloves ¼ tsp. ground nutmeg ½ tsp. salt ½ tsp. black pepper Fresh pineapple chunks, for garnish
INGREDIENTS: 2½ lbs. Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced ½ cup granulated sugar 1 Tbsp. lemon juice 2 Tbsp. cornstarch ½ tsp. salt 1 tsp. ground cinnamon 1 cup all-purpose flour ¾ cup brown sugar ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats 1 tsp. baking powder ½ tsp. ground cinnamon ½ tsp. salt 8 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted Vanilla bean ice cream, optional
DIRECTIONS: Preheat the oven according to package directions. Place the ham, cut side down, in a roasting pan, cover loosely with foil, and bake according to directions. In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring until the sugar dissolves and a smooth glaze forms. During the final 30 minutes of baking the ham, remove the foil, and brush generously with most of the glaze. Continue baking uncovered, brushing with extra glaze every 10 minutes, until the ham is heated through and the glaze is golden and caramelized. Transfer the ham to a serving platter, and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Arrange pineapple chunks around the ham as a garnish before serving.
DIRECTIONS: Preheat the oven to 375°F, and lightly grease a 9-inch, square baking dish. Place the apples in a large bowl. Add the sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, salt, and cinnamon, and gently toss until the apples are evenly coated. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, oats, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter, and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the apples, and bake for 35-40 minutes, until the apples are tender and the topping is lightly browned. Let cool for a few minutes before serving with fresh ice cream.
OurTownNow.com 19
INSPIRATION
Shifting Your Focus By Kelly Shank
I
t seems like every year, the push to prepare for the holidays comes at us earlier and earlier. The pressure begins in early fall, and by November 1, many of us are completely gearing up for the inevitable holiday season. It often becomes a mad dash to the finish line with a “get through it” mentality. And it can be so busy—with all the gift buying and pressure to make everything meaningful and beautiful—we overlook the things that truly matter. Then it is over, and all we feel is relief. When this happens, we miss the moments and the people. We miss the true connections because we are so overly connected in the wrong ways. We miss the intentionality because we are simply checking items off a list. We miss making our own memories because we are too busy staring at someone else’s on a screen. What if we took a step back this year and shifted our focus? What if we really looked outside of ourselves to see who was around us? We might become more aware of those whose holidays look very different this year. We might remember that family friend who has lost a loved one or has received a diagnosis that has altered their life entirely. We might notice those parents who can barely afford to put food on a table, let alone buy gifts. Or maybe we would reach out to a special needs family who could use some connection and extra support. Whatever the case may be, before engaging in the crazy rush that this season brings, what if we said “no” to some things of truly less importance, so we can say “yes” to something or someone far greater? I do not think God sent His Son for us to commemorate his birth by stressing out over the latest TikTok trend on how to decorate our tree perfectly or by buying gifts for 45 people out of obligation. On the contrary, He came to save, He came to sacrifice, He came to love, and He went after the weak, the poor, the hurting, and the lonely. There is nothing wrong with having a beautiful tree and gifts—but when our focus gets off kilter, we miss the point entirely. So, love well, and love others with intention. Do not live through someone else’s highlight reel of memories; live out yours while truly seeing others along the way.
20 November/December 2026
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