Issuu

® September/October 2026

LAKE MURRAY EDITION

OurTownNow.com 1

Ditch cable internet. The future is fiber. Lightning-fast uploads & downloads Equipment & installation included

Unlimited data No annual contracts

Check availability at Fiber.T-Mobile.com Not available in all areas. See Terms and Conditions (including arbitration provision) at https://fiber.t-mobile.com/legal/terms.

PREMIER SHOE REPAIRS & Handmade Leather Goods

WE CATER TO BOTH INDIVIDUALS & BUSINESSES Tax Returns Tax Preparation Tax Resolution Payroll Sales Tax Bookkeeping Including Financial Clean-ups Budgeting/Spending Analysis Services

LEXINGTON SHOE REPAIR and Leather Goods

528D Columbia Ave., Lexington Mon. - Fri. 7:30am - 6:00pm Sat. 9:00am - 2:00pm 803-808-7299 | LexingtonShoeRepair.com

Dream Space

Your is within reach

• Full-Service Interior Design • Color Consults • Design & Build Consult • Room Redesign & Refresh • Design Build & Renovation • Tablescapes & Entertainment Decor

Start designing today!

191 FRIARSGATE BLVD., IRMO 503-929-3079 CarolinaOnADime.com @carolinaonadime

RAWL & AMERSON ACCOUNTING 803-359-4211 | RawlAccounting.com 140 Whiteford Way, Lexington

PUBLISHER’S LETTER Publisher Tracy Tuten Copy Editor Marilyn Thomas Design and Production Kristina Parella Volunteer Coordinator Paige Youmans Contributing Writers Kristi Antley Julia Bell Jacob Hester Mary Ann Hutchenson Guy Smith Cameron Soltysiak Marilyn Thomas Scott Vaughan Photographers Amber Photography Clark Berry Photography Emily Ray Photography Jessica Meetze Sales Tracy Tuten Tracy@OurTownNow.com 839-205-0717 Our Town Magazine (Vol. 4. 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.

chool has started, and some routines have been established for both kids and adults. In this edition, you will find information on equipping your teen with skills that can prepare them not only to further their education, but also to go straight into the workforce. Our Town Magazine wants to help educate parents and students alike by providing information from the Lexington Technology Center and the Lexington/Richland 5 Center for Advanced Technical Studies. Both are an outstanding addition to their districts, offering classes such as Firefighting, Culinary Arts, Nursing, Welding, and even Aerospace Engineering. These schools are a wonderful resource for any student looking to further their education on a specific subject. The Local Authors piece is a nod to a few of our amazing writers who have published their own works. The writers who are a part of Our Town Magazine are, in my opinion, some of the best. They are real people who live and work in this area. This is something that we pride ourselves on, as AI-generated material seems to be taking over the world and filler “wire” articles are abundant. We appreciate the human element and the attention that local writers bring to our publication. The Home Series focuses on the water, electricity, and propane services everyone uses and how we can save money on each. Groceries are expensive, so we are looking to help you save money whenever possible. If you have extra funds, we humbly ask that you get involved. Our Town Magazine is all about giving back to our community. This month, we bring you the Lexington United Methodist Church’s Snack Sack program that feeds children throughout the school year. The article highlights the real need for food, funds, and volunteers to help keep children fed. 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. For all of you, please enjoy the USC and Clemson schedules within and remember to keep the banter friendly. I hope you enjoy some amazing food and even better company this season! Please remember to support the businesses within, as they are the ones who keep the magazines hitting your mailboxes, and we could not be more grateful for their continued support. As always, I hope to see you out and about!

Visit Our Website!

2 September/October 2026

TABLE OF CONTENTS

10 Home Series Utilities Matter

6 Local Authors Beyond the Book

14 Lex/Rich District 5

Center for Advanced Technical Studies

22 Hunting With My Kids 24 Football Season Field Safety and Fun

USC & Clemson Schedules

18 Lexington District 1 Lexington Technology Center

28 LUMC Snack Sack Feed the Children

4 Local Events 26 Happy Tails 34 Chef’s Selections 36 Inspiration OurTownNow.com 3

EVENTS

Local Events: September/October Things to do in and around Our Town! HIGHLIGHTED EVENT FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 90’s Fallapalooza Icehouse Amphitheater 107 West Main St., Lexington Doors open at 6pm

Celebrate the ultimate 90s throwback with tributes to Radiohead and Pearl Jam, plus High Society's electrifying mix of hip hop, R&B, and party anthems. Experience an unforgettable night of nostalgia, iconic hits, and nonstop dancing. IcehouseAmphitheater.com

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9- SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12

Foodees Fest Lifelong Learning Center 101 W. Columbia Ave., Batesburg-Leesville Times Vary Enjoy a weekend of great food, local shopping, and festival fun as food trucks, specialty vendors, and talented artisans come together to offer unique flavors, handcrafted goods, and memorable experiences.

Irmo Fire Foundation Yard Sale Union United Methodist Church 7582 Woodrow St., Irmo 8am Plan to donate to or shop at the Irmo Fire Foundation’s Third Annual Community Yard Sale. Proceeds help provide Irmo Fire District with specialized training, emergency support, gear and equipment, and other valuable resources.

BackToTheRackSC.com

Foodeesfest.com

IrmoFireFoundation.org

Back To The Rack Consignment Sale & Shop Three Little Chickadees 403 C Chapin Rd., Chapin Times Vary With more than 20,000 items to choose from, shop for gently loved women’s and children’s items, featuring stylish finds, great deals, and family treasures at this Midlands’ premier boutique consignment sale.

4 September/October 2026

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17

Lighthouse for Life's Fund the Fight Fundraiser Gala Riverland Hills Baptist Church 201 Lake Murray Blvd., Irmo 6:30pm-8:45pm Spend an evening investing in hope for survivors! As guests sample cuisine from nearby restaurants, they will have opportunities to give while learning about the reality of human trafficking within the local community. LighthouseForLife.org

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17

Carnival Day Venture X 1901 Main St., 18th Floor, Columbia 5pm-7pm A family event to enjoy with magic by John Tudor, Olly the Otter, games, prizes, food, and FUN high above downtown Columbia! All proceeds benefit Kids Day, helping support children battling cancer and other serious illnesses. Grab your tickets now!

Wheel of Fortune LIVE Harbison Theatre 7300 College St., Irmo 6:30pm Audience members will have the chance to be randomly selected to spin the iconic wheel, solve puzzles, and compete for cash prizes, dream vacations, and more during this exciting interactive stage experience filled with fun and excitement. HarbisonTheatre.org

Eventbrite.com

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25-SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 Irmo Okra Strut Moore Park 7473 Church St., Irmo Times Vary Celebrate 50+ years of the Okra Strut with a festive parade, live music, familyfriendly activities, arts and crafts, rides, delicious food, and community spirit while supporting local charities, schools, and public improvement projects. OkraStrut.com

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

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10

Harbison MTB Challenge Harbison State Forest 5600 Broad River Rd., Columbia Registration begins at 7:30am Enjoy scenic courses and outdoor adventures by taking on the trails in the Harbison MTB Challenge, a thrilling mountain bike race through Harbison State Forest. Register online to participate in this exciting event. Trans-SylvaniaProductions.com

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15 Irmo Food & Wine Festival Moore Park 7473 Church St., Irmo 5pm-8pm Enjoy an unforgettable evening in Irmo featuring live music by The Time Pirates 3, curated wine and craft beer, delicious food, local vendors, and a welcoming community atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends and neighbors.

Boo at the Zoo Riverbanks Zoo & Garden 500 Wildlife Pkwy., Columbia 6pm-9pm Celebrate Halloween with trick-or-treating, spooky decorations, animal encounters, themed activities, costumes, and plenty of family-friendly fun during this annual fall tradition at the zoo. Riverbanks.org

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25

Hocus Pocus Halloween Market Flora & Fauna Marketplace 4773 Sunset Blvd., Lexington 11am-4pm Celebrate the season at the Hocus Pocus Halloween Market featuring 35+ local vendors, handcrafted goods, food trucks, festive music, themed photo opportunities, costumes, and seasonal fun for the whole family. LakeMurrayCountry.com

GreaterIrmoChamber.com

OurTownNow.com 5

HOMETOWN AUTHORS

Beyond the Book Ink and Inspiration By Kristi Antley

he art of writing, regardless of the instrument utilized, is an intimate relationship with oneself, transferring emotions, experiences, and information into print. Many gifted wordsmiths call Lexington County home, and Our Town Magazine has been blessed from inception with amazing content derived from these unique local characters. We would like to take this opportunity to introduce you to a few of our talented and published writers, who are living in our own backyard.

SCOTT VAUGHAN

Scott was born into a family of skilled educators in Georgia who prioritized and encouraged literacy. “My parents were both readers, my grandmother was a public teacher, and my family was a storytelling family,” he says. Scott’s own journey into writing began early. “My fourth-grade teacher encouraged me to write short stories and read them to the class. My seventh-grade teacher took me to the local newspaper, where I was published occasionally. I worked for the newspaper my sophomore year in high school, as my career choice was to be a newspaper writer.” He loved the position and the environment, as well as the opportunity to learn from seasoned mentors. “Jim Cosey, the newspaper editor, taught me how to write all the different kinds of stories,” Scott explains.

6 September/October 2026

After graduating from Forsyth County High School in 1977, Scott attended the University of Georgia on a Georgia Press Association tuition grant. Although weaving words has been his livelihood for over 50 years, with the publication of his seventh book on the horizon, Scott says his greatest accomplishment will always be his first work: Brookwood Road. Published in 2014, this book fulfilled a 40-year-old promise to his father. Scott says he writes every single day for work, for adult Bible study, and for fun. When asked what advice he would give to aspiring writers, he replied: “To be a good writer, you must enjoy reading. The more you read, the better your vocabulary and your sentence structure.” He also adds: “Write for an audience of one—yourself. Be content with that. Be open to accepting and appreciating good editing—people who want to make your work stronger. It's impossible to adequately edit your own work.”

FUELING THE GOOD LIFE!

From backyard gatherings to everyday comfort, Palmetto Propane keeps your home powered for the moments that matter most.

Reliable Residential Propane Delivery Home Heating • Fireplaces • Grills • Generators Friendly Local Service Commercial and Residential

WHERE EVERY PET IS A FIRST-ROUND PICK! Boarding Daycare Grooming Luxury Suites Mon.-Sat. 7am-11am, 2pm-6pm | Sun. 2pm-6pm

LEXINGTON PET LODGE

654 Ginny Ln., Lexington 803-957-7297 LexingtonPetLodge.com

Experience the Palmetto Propane difference.

1-800-233-1882 | PalmettoPropane.com transforming your residential or commercial property with high quality, landscape lighting.

Time Falls Back. Don’t Be Left In the Dark! 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 OurTownNow.com 7

Haunted by Your Floor? Our Showroom is Full of Treats! FREE In-Home Estimates

Carpet | Hardwood | Laminate | Tile | and More!

Call Today! 803-359-0507 1728 North Lake Dr., Lexington 1573 South Lake Dr., Lexington 1025 Lowndes Hill Rd., Greenville

FloorBoys.com

KICK OFF THE SEASON

with us!

Mon. 4pm-9pm; Tues.-Sat. 11am-9pm; Sun. 4 pm-8pm

Dine-in · Takeout

630 U.S. Hwy. 378, Lexington 803-951-4663 GoodFellasGrillAndBar.com 8 September/October 2026

TORI NEWTON

Having a variety of interests and talents benefits any career in print, and Lexington native Tori Newton is a solid example of this. Before she discovered that writing was her passion, she had her share of amateur experiences (actress, singer, jock, etc.). “Even though I stayed in the music bubble for most of my childhood,” she recalls, “I've always had a passion for telling stories.” As a University of South Carolina (USC) alumnus, “I graduated with honors and a bachelor of music in 2011, and I'm still very much a loud and proud Gamecock—spurs up!” she says. During her time at USC, her favorite class was a theater course she took in her senior year. When tasked with making a movie, “My primary role was that of screenwriter,” she says. “Watching the class get teary during emotional scenes, gasp at shocking revelations, or laugh out loud at a clever one-liner gave me a high I've been chasing ever since.” Her first major achievement as an author occurred in December of 2023. “I entered the seventh Writers' Playground Challenge, and out of over 600 entries, my psychological horror short story took first place,” Tori says. That success rollercoaster has not stopped, and her short stories and novels have been recognized internationally, receiving high accolades in both the US and the UK. Her advice for potential authors is this: “Write the story you want to write. If the story resonates with you, it will likely resonate with others. You'll never be able to please everybody, you'll always have critics, but first and foremost, I urge you to tell the story you feel led to tell.” Tori strongly feels that her faith is deeply embedded in the fabric of her Southern horror and paranormal books, shining brightly between the lines. She realizes that sometimes it takes unconventional approaches to reach people with different perspectives. For example, “You picked up Calling Eldritch Hayes for creepy ghosts and demonic possession? You added No One Lives in Alva Anymore to your cart because you love a good werewolf story?” she explains. “GREAT—now here's a side of the Gospel to go with them.”

DAN WILLIAMS

In Dan’s life, writing words was a natural result of his passion for the Word of God. “I am constantly reminded of a few words that were given to me by a seminary professor in Texas, as he was conducting class: ‘Be a writer.’ I believe the Lord drilled that word into my heart and mind many times over my lifetime,” he says. Dan’s father, a Baptist minister, was also a pivotal influence in his lifelong faith journey. His father’s ministry relocated the family clan from Dayton, Ohio, to West Columbia in 1970. While attending high school, Dan’s afternoons were filled with part-time positions and choral practices with a Christian group called “The Tellers,” and eventually, he secured a music degree from Furman University. “I am in my second month of my 70th year of life outside the womb!” Dan declares, as a very healthy and active septuagenarian. In addition to playing tennis, he holds positions within Lexington Baptist Church, is involved in community activities, and continues to write music, play the guitar, and sing. “In 1993 I had bi-lateral vascular lesions on my vocal cords, which required a surgical procedure,” he says. “I thank the Lord every day that the surgery restored my voice and has let me sing His praises through the years.” Most of Dan’s work in the print world has been in the form of newsletters, articles, sermons, and songs. “I wrote the ‘Senior Living’ column for a local publication for three years and published a collection of 52 of my best articles from the paper,” he shares. “Also, one of my song recordings has been seen over 100,000 times on YouTube and I continue to enjoy writing music and working with local publications.”

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.

Let us help you start the conversation. 803.461.0456 LutheranHospice.org Medicare, Medicaid, V.A. and other insurance program benefits accepted OurTownNow.com 9

HOME SERIES

Behind the Scenes Utilities Matter By Julia Bell

ousehold utilities are services most homeowners do not think about until they stop working. Utilities like electricity, propane, and plumbing do more than just make life comfortable; in certain temperatures and circumstances, they can be life-saving. Despite working mainly “behind the scenes,” properly maintaining these utilities in your home will enhance property value while saving you money. Electricity has only been available to the majority of American homes within the last 100 years, but this utility impacts so many aspects of our lives today, going without it for a few hours or days can feel crippling. Outside of the occasional interruptions from storms or local outages, it is important for homeowners to pay attention to even minor changes in their electrical services. Manufacturers estimate a home’s wiring will last 30-40 years, but it is wise to ask a trusted electrician to check the condition of your home’s system when conducting service and maintenance calls. Electricians will tell you that when it comes to current and wiring, it is either working well or it is not. Pay attention if the breaker trips frequently, when a reliable appliance is operating differently or suddenly not working at all, or if an outlet only works when the plug is held at a certain angle. Any of these examples of wiring issues could indicate a potential fire hazard, which means it is time to call a professional. Local electrical companies, like Palmetto Electric Group, can provide greater customization of services to a homeowner’s specific project and budgeting needs. Along

Residential Plumbing Services Drain Cleaning Water Heaters Leak Detection Well Pumps Water Filtration Same Day Services

803-530-7109 CallSmoothWaters.com 10 September/October 2026

with his skilled and experienced team at Palmetto Electric Group, owner Jackson Elrod addresses residential electrical repairs, installations, and wiring upgrades, including installing generators and power to docks and boatlifts. If you have been considering a home project that involves an electrician, Elrod recommends getting started right away to save some money. “The cost of materials is rising, along with labor prices. There is no better time than now to maximize your financial investment for projects like these,” he says, adding that qualified electricians should be knowledgeable about current industry codes and be able to advise homeowners on energy efficient solutions. Propane is another utility to consider when looking at home energy efficiency. “Propane provides all the benefits of natural gas where natural gas is not available,” says David Lever of Palmetto Propane. They also have products that run on propane and services homes that are close to the lake, in rural areas, and anywhere that doesn’t have access to the natural gas infrastructure. Propane is a reliable, non-toxic, and affordable energy source that safely fuels a variety of home appliances such as hot water heaters, stovetops, gas logs, generators, and lanterns. According to Lever, it can also save roughly 30 percent on monthly energy costs. Companies like Palmetto Propane service residential propane tank installations and refills and can advise homeowners on options that best meet their individual needs.

Depending on those needs, propane is stored in a large tank buried underground or in a smaller tank that is installed outside the house and can be easily hidden with landscaping. An indicator on the tank automatically alerts the propane company when it needs refilling, making the entire process easy to maintain. Homeowners can benefit from propane’s efficiency during wintertime when temperatures dip below 40 degrees and the tank’s dual fuel heating kicks in or when gas logs are used to quickly warm a room instead of relying on central heating alone. Similarly, a tankless water heater can operate on natural gas or propane and is popular because it heats water on demand. This appliance can also decrease overall energy costs within the first month of use.

help protect the lifespans of pipes and fixtures. Some common-sense plumbing recommendations include annually checking drain lines in homes built on slabs or with crawl spaces and never putting things in the kitchen or bathroom drain lines that should not be disposed of in that way. Your home’s water heater should be checked regularly, and if it is over 10 years old, the warranty is probably expired. Generally, homeowners can expect a water heater to last about six to eight years or up to 12, if it’s tankless. When it’s time to replace a tankless unit, Waters recommends investing in the new polymer tank, which has a longer warranty and meets current industry standards and codes. The hybrid and polymer units are also more efficient on power grids, and these standards will eventually apply to all residential units, like the regulation codes in the HVAC industry regarding freon. Depending on the age of your home, it might feel like you cannot get ahead of repairs long enough to even begin thinking of how to tackle preventative maintenance. As these utilities professionals from locally owned businesses have shared from their areas of expertise in electrical, propane, and plumbing services, there are many simple ways to begin addressing the specific needs your house may have. Appliances, wiring, and pipes will eventually wear out, so it’s wise to conduct regular inspections to catch small problems before they become expensive repairs. Check on the things that work behind the scenes in your home—because they matter, too. Our Town Magazine proudly supports local businesses! Palmetto Electric Group 803-463-3165 PalmettoElectric.Pro Palmetto Propane 800-233-1882 PalmettoPropane.com

Plumbing is another behind-the-scenes utility that is used daily but rarely receives proactive attention or maintenance until it stops working or springs a leak. According to Luke Waters of Smooth Waters Plumbing, his industry’s biggest tip is to prioritize your home’s plumbing through regular maintenance. “Investigate monthly service plans to get service benefits and an annual inspection that allows a trained professional to regularly look at your plumbing system. This helps us spot problems before something goes wrong,” Waters says, adding that insurance companies “get excited to see homeowners taking a proactive approach to home inspections, too.” Plumbing issues stem from three primary sources: water pressure, water quality, and the age of the system. Homeowners should make sure that elements like water-pressure-controlled shut-off-valve sensors or sewage-backflow preventers are functioning properly and address water quality issues to

Smooth Waters Plumbing 803-530-7109 CallSmoothWaters.com

EXCELLENCE IN EVERY CONNECTION Residential Commercial

Industrial

2026 Awarding Winning

ELECTRICIAN

Servicing the Greater Midlands Area.

803-463-3165 | PalmettoElectric.pro OurTownNow.com 11

Imagine your home, totally organized!

Custom Closets Garage Cabinets Home Offices Wall Beds Wall Organizers Pantries

Laundries Wall Units Hobby Rooms Garage Flooring Media Centers and more...

40 Free

% Off

Plus

Installation 15% Off PLUS TAKE AN EXTRA

SPECIAL FINANCING

Terms and Conditions: 40% off any order of $980 or more, 30% off any order of $680 or more, on any Everyday™ Closet, Garage, Home office, or other products with any complete unit purchase. Take an additional 15% off any order of $980 or more. Free installation with any complete unit order of $850 or more. Not valid with any other offer. Offers and prices are subject to change without notice. With incoming order, at time of purchase only. Offer Expires on 9/27/26. Offer not valid in all regions.

FOR 18 MONTHS!

With approved credit. Call or ask your Designer for details. Not available in all areas.

Call for a free in home design consultation and estimate

803-335-2651 OTM

www.closetsbydesign.com

Locally Owned and Operated! Licensed and Insured.

SHOP WITH US THIS SUMMER AND SAVE!

Food Clothing Housewares Furniture

523 Columbia Ave., Lexington 803-996-0594 CostLessOutlet.com

Here When You Need Us Now Open Daily 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Lab • X-Ray • CT

URGENT CARE OurTownNow.com 13

LEX/RICH 5 – CATS

Center for Advanced Technical Studies Action-oriented Education Leading to Employment

The Center for Advanced Technical Studies (aka The Center), located in Chapin and within the jurisdiction of the Lexington-Richland School District Five, is an academic institution that offers a curriculum approach that is grounded in career and technical education. Potential students tour The Center while in middle school, and in high school, guidance counselors may refer them there, depending upon their future career goals. Every week, the facility serves nearly 1,000 students, who walk, drive, or are shuttled from Dutch Fork, Spring Hill, Chapin, and Irmo High Schools or the Five Virtual Program. Classes at The Center are taught in three-hour sessions in alternating time periods and days of the week. Some of these courses offer dual-enrollment credits, as well as certifications in several career fields. At The Center, about 20 knowledgeable experts mentor the students and provide practical hands-on learning in 17 different programs, some of which include: aerospace and civil engineering, architecture, agriculture and biosystems, automotive technology, building construction technology, welding, culinary arts, cybersecurity, fire and rescue, law enforcement, digital arts, media technology, and veterinary and biomedical science.

By Marilyn Thomas

lbert Einstein has been credited with saying: “Learning is experience. Everything else is just information.” The Center for Advanced Technical Studies in Chapin applies this philosophy within its educational programs. Because of the hands-on learning experiences provided there, many of the students have identified the occupation of their choice while still in high school and have acquired practical skills that enable them to launch a career after graduating or to pursue higher education with confidence. “We're the bridge between high school and their career and the rest of their life,” asserts Roy Frick, an administrator who oversees the daily operations at The Center for Advanced Technical Studies and the assistant director of Career and Technical Education for Lexington-Richland School District Five. A Lexington County native and graduate of Gilbert High School, Frick has a bachelor’s in business management and a master's in education administration and has spent more than a decade working in the academic sector in both instructor and administrative roles. While a career and technical education coordinator at Batesburg/Leesville, “I came here for a state meeting for career and technical education in 2018 and got to see this place, which at that point was six years old,” Frick recalls. “We're now in our fourteenth school year, but I got to see what was going on here and how special it was.”

14 September/October 2026

Margaret Floyd, a student at The Center, says, “I wanted to take a course at The Center because I was interested in a career in the medical field, and my guidance counselor recommended the BioMed program. I thought it would be a great way to explore healthcare and see if it was something I truly wanted to pursue. It gave me the chance to learn real skills and confirm that nursing is the path I want to take.” “I started taking the BioMed program my freshman year because I was interested in becoming a CRNA [certified

registered nurse anesthetist], and it ended up shaping my love for the medical field,” she continues. “The hands-on learning and my teachers really helped me understand what working in healthcare is like. Because of this program, I am now going to Anderson University in the fall and majoring in nursing…I couldn't be more thankful for the past three years in this program!” Many students, like Floyd, choose to continue their education at a university or technical college. Sometimes connections are made with businesses while studying at The Center, and those companies are willing to assist with higher education expenses. Others begin internships during high school and are offered a full-time position once they graduate.

Twice annually, usually in February and September, The Center hosts an open-house showcase event for the public to learn about “the opportunities we can offer,” says Frick. This is advertised in the schools as well as in the greater community, and Frick welcomes parents of all school-aged children to consider visiting The Center. To coincide with this event in September 2026, The Center plans to have a career-day expo that will feature local industries and invite representatives from those companies to connect with parents and students. Furthermore, Frick is actively involved with the local Chamber of Commerce and has intentionally invested in partnerships within the business and educational sectors by holding Chamber events at The Center’s facilities. “With career and technical education, constantly, there is going to be change, so in the career and technical field, it's going to be evolving special technologies,” explains Frick. The leadership of the school endeavors to respond organically to the current industry trends in the local community by providing relevant educational resources in those fields. For example, he says, “This year, we introduced HVAC, and we're the first HVAC school in the Midlands for high school students.” Next year, the school will be the first in the Midlands to offer a drone program, an innovative technology that can be applied in multiple occupational settings. In the not-too-distant future, Frick also shares that the property adjacent to The Center has already been purchased, and plans are underway to use that space to instruct students in large machinery operations. “We're here to continue to try to grow their future workforce,” concludes Frick. “We are really trying to prepare the Lexington-Richland Five students to be that next wave—to be able to be our next business owners and be the ones building the next houses and growing our community.”

WHERE TECHNOLOGY MEETS EXPERTISE According to Frick, parents often confide in him that, before their children decide to enter college or a trade, they want their students to explore future career opportunities. Even if a high schooler realizes they dislike a particular occupation while there, Frick still considers this a positive because they can pivot into a different field. However, every year, he also hopes the students will “leave here with more of a passion than when they started.”

Today’s Discreet Smart Technology Hearing Aids Make Hearing Loss Easily Treatable!

Affordable Hearing Tests Hearing Protection Hearing Aids Mon.-Thur. 8am–12pm, 1pm-5pm & Fri. 8am-12pm

Don’t Settle. Tackle Your Hearing Loss Today! 150 Whiteford Way, Lexington 803-470-2621 LakeMurrayHearing.com

OurTownNow.com 15

OUTDOOR PATIOS ARE FALL FAVORITES From custom decks and patios to siding and roofing, we create exterior spaces you’ll love spending time in.

Serving the Midlands

• Custom Decks • Covered Patios & Pergolas • Screened Porches & Sunrooms • Roofing & Siding • Exterior Painting & Upgrades

Book Your Complimentary Design Consultation 803-932-8477 Get Inspired at

GreenExteriorRemodeling.com 16 September/October 2026

Wrap Your Landscape In Fall Colors

WE BUY & SELL COINS PAPER MONEY GOLD SILVER VINTAGE COLLECTIBLES

Gilbert Coin EXCHANGE

Locally Owned and Operated

4079-H Augusta Hwy., Gilbert 803-892-4307 | GilbertCoins.com

2815 Dutch Fork Rd., Chapin Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm | Sat. 8am-12pm 803-960-7729 TheOriginalLandscapeSupply.com

TIME FOR YOUR TRANSFORMATION

Kitchen, Bath, and Whole House Remodeling is our Expertise

before after Licensed • Bonded • Insured

You Can’t Go Wrong With The Wright Group

Call us today for a free estimate 803-233-3373 | twgsc.com OurTownNow.com 17

LEX 1 – LTC

Lexington Technology Center Preparing Tomorrow’s Personnel Today By Marilyn Thomas

hile traditional educational basics, like the three Rs— reading, ‘riting, and ‘rithmetic—are essential to academic success, Lexington Technology Center of Lexington School District One applies these fundamentals in practical ways with hands-on learning in specific occupational fields. Whether the goal is to pursue a longstanding, essential trade or to secure a foothold in emerging technology, the vision of this school’s multi-faceted programs is to empower each student to become an innovative leader within his or her career and community. Bryce Myers, the director of career and technical education (CTE) for the Lexington Technology Center (LTC), asserts: “LTC’s mission is to build our community through career preparation

18 September/October 2026

focused on character, creativity, and craftsmanship.” After receiving a Bachelor of Business Administration from Francis Marion University and a Master of Arts in Teaching in Business from Winthrop University, Myers joined the staff of LTC in 1999. “Career and Technical Education allows students to apply what they’ve learned in their core classes,” Myers says. “Many of our courses and programs align directly to college majors and future careers.” However, like most educators who are involved in CTE, Myers also believes that this approach to education is valuable for all students (and not just for those who do not plan to go to college) because everyone eventually enters the workforce, and the challenging, diverse, and individualized opportunities provided by CTE better prepare them for this inevitability.

“At LTC, we want to impact and improve our community by preparing students for employment,” Myers continues. “To do this, we believe students need to have strong character, be able to think and problem solve, and be able to do and perform their job. We want them to be difference makers and leaders in Lexington, South Carolina; across our nation; and around the world.” Because of its fundamental importance in the economy, the U.S. Congress has officially described CTE as “a key element of the nation's workforce development system, providing students with both academic and technical skills to succeed in further education and future careers.” Thus, innovative federal legislation in 1963 and 1968 “created a wave of vocational education centers across South Carolina and the country,” explains Myers.

(science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) Certification from the nationally recognized non-profit, nongovernmental organization known as Cognia. Also, LTC has been acclaimed as a School of Excellence on local, statewide, and national levels and has received the respected Palmetto Gold and Blue Ribbon Lighthouse School Awards. Furthermore, LTC’s instructors and

As a result, LTC was established in 1974 for the students of Lexington County School District One. Located at 2421 Augusta Highway in Lexington, the facilities have been expanded several times since its beginnings to meet the demands of a dynamic job market. Today, LTC currently serves about 2,000 students from five high schools in the district, which include Gilbert, Lexington, Pelion, River Bluff, and White Knoll. To uphold its standards of excellence, the school has achieved Advanced STEM

I’M NOT OK

students regularly participate and place in state and national career and technical student organizations’ competitions. Because “one size does not fit all,” LTC and other schools across Lexington District One offer 36 different programs related to CTE training. While enrolled at LTC, “Students can explore future careers,” says Myers. “Many find what they want to major in when attending college. Many eliminate something they thought they wanted to do.” When they do identify occupations of interest, their paths to a promising career can definitively begin at LTC because certification requirements in some

Providing survivor support and community education to prevent HUMAN TRAFFICKING

W I TH HU MAN TRA FFICKING

JOIN US AT THE ANNUAL GALA! Come together to shine a light on freedom, healing, and hope.

September 17 | 6:30 PM Riverland Hills Baptist Church, Irmo

And It’s Happening Right Here in our Community!

BECOME A LAMPLIGHTER $37/month support

Together, we’re guiding survivors from darkness to hope, one life at a time.

LighthouseForLife.org OurTownNow.com 19

Available while supplies last.

menchie’s 5580 Sunset Blvd., Lexington 803-356-0643 menchies.com

BUY ONE GET ONE

1/2 OFF!

Half-off yogurt of equal or lesser value. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Valid thru 10/31/26. BOGOHALF

KEEP ROLLING ALL SEASON LONG

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

918 Huger St., Columbia 803-252-5595 MufflerShopColumbia.com 20 September/October 2026

fields can be fulfilled while enrolled there. As examples, Myers lists several of these, including Nursing Assistants Certification, Federal Aviation Administration 107 Drones License, American Welding Society Certifications, SolidWorks Associates and Professionals Certifications, cosmetology licensure, and many more. In fact, during the 2024-25 school year, 3,457 industry certifications were earned by CTE students in the Lexington One School District. In addition to its specialized courses and certifications, the school also offers advanced STEM studies; dual-enrollment, honors, and advanced placement courses; and cooperative education, which involves job shadowing, internships, and apprenticeships. Brayden Crump recently completed LTC’s Engineering Program as a junior. He intends to enroll in college-level dual enrollment classes in the fall, during his senior year, and graduate as a “Center completer.” “Once I finish high school, I plan to attend college and study aerospace engineering at either Clemson, Georgia Tech, or Embry-Riddle,” Crump says. “Before coming to the LTC, I wanted to pursue the route of an engineer, but my time at the LTC revealed just how many paths are available. Every course that I have taken here has not only helped build a technical foundation, but they have built up soft skills that are key to being successful in life.” One of LTC’s key resources—and a main catalyst for students’ successes—are its instructors. “Many came from industry into teaching,” explains Myers. For instance, Finance and Accounting are taught by a bank manager, a firefighter is the instructor for the South Carolina Fire Academy, a machinist teaches Machine Technology, contractors oversee the Building Construction Program, an electrician trains the students enrolled in the Electrical Course, nurses provide instruction for the Health Science classes, a digital artist teaches Digital Art and Design, and a chef provides expertise for the Culinary Arts training. Students who attend schools within Lexington District One are usually offered the opportunity to enroll in LTC classes after they enter high school. Typically, ninth graders must complete specific, required core courses during that academic year, but an informed conversation with their guidance counselor could lay the groundwork for beginning a CTE pathway in their sophomore year. Not surprisingly, these determined pupils typically achieve undeniable success, as statistics show that about 98 percent of Lexington One’s CTE students graduate from high school on time. “We want students to challenge themselves in their core academics, develop their character, and gain career experiences that will prepare them for future careers,” affirms Myers, and LTC’s opportunities ensure that this is certainly achievable.

If confidence had an address, it’d be here. At Covet Aesthetics, we take a different approach to aesthetics. Most people don’t need more treatments.They need the right ones, in the right order.

Services Regenerative Aesthetics Injectables/Facial Balancing Advanced Laser/RF Technology Hair Restoration Personalized Treatment Plans

Results that look effortless.

Schedule your complimentary consultation today! 803-303-0550 | covetaesthetics.com @covetaesthetics @covet_aesthetics OurTownNow.com 21

FIELD SAFETY

Lessons in the Field Make Lasting Memories By Jacob Hester

here’s nothing quite like the excitement you and your kids will enjoy when you go on a hunting trip together. Spending quality time outside with just them can be a rare experience in this hurry-up world—a true “timeout” from all the hustle and bustle. It’s a setting where time seems to stand still, and cell phones, homework, and practice schedules all fade away into the distance. If you have never gone hunting with your family, I highly recommend it. This opportunity will warm parts of your heart that you didn’t know existed. “Hey, Dad, what time is it?” my son’s insistent voice queried, interrupting my slumber and piercing the darkness of the early dawn.

22 September/October 2026

“It’s 6:02 in the morning, Bubs,” I replied after rolling over and glancing at my phone on the nightstand. “What are you doing awake?” “I can’t sleep,” he explained, exasperated. “We get to go hunting today!” “Bubs, I completely understand,” I conceded, as I sat up in bed and stretched. After a brief pause, he insisted, “When are we leaving?” The sun wasn’t even up yet, but as my younger son let out a snore from the other room, I knew we had to continue this conversation in the kitchen. “Help me cook up some breakfast?” Once everyone was up and bellies were full—and excitement levels were ramping though the roof—we suited up in briar-proof pants and boots and headed out to the truck. Finally, after what seemed like a 100-day delay (to my boys), the moment had arrived: We were going hunting! Following a 45-minute drive, which they described as “taking forever,” we arrived at our happy place. As soon as we parked, both rear doors slung open, as if it were Christmas morning, and the boys jumped out onto a freshly bushhogged pathway that led into the tall pines of the forest. My oldest took in a deep breath, exhaled, and announced: “Dad, goodness! I love being here!” Because safety is the top priority when we go on a hunting trip, I always remind my sons about important field and gear protocols before we embark on our adventures. “Boys, grab your orange hats—you know we have to wear those. Put your orange vests on and wait on me before you touch any of the shotguns, please,” I firmly instructed them. “Okay, Dad,” they responded. “Did you know we have to have orange on while we hunt so other hunters can see us?” the oldest added. “Yes, son. I like that rule,” I replied with a smile, inwardly pleased that his words reflected the precautions I had often drilled. “We have a few others, too. Do you remember what they are?” When they answered, “Yes sir,” I recited the important checklist of items we take with us while hunting—visibility

hats and vests, shotgun shells, and water for the hunting dogs—and waited for them to identify each item in our stash. As I reached into the back of the truck and handed my older son his shotgun and my younger son his BB gun, I asked them both: “All right boys, what are the rules for these guns?” Nearly in unison, they spouted off the instructions: “Always point the barrel in a safe direction. Always keep the safety on until I am ready to shoot. Never put my finger in the trigger until I am ready to pull it. Always treat the gun as if it is loaded, even when you are certain it is not loaded.” With a satisfied nod, I opened the dog’s box and out jumped our two Brittany spaniels, Shelby and Dolly. Possibly more excited than my own two kids, the canine pair quickly scouted out the nearby hunting area and almost immediately began to exhibit their “sneak walk” (as my oldest calls it) to show they had caught the scent of quail. They were about 35 feet in front of us when they shifted into a pointing stance and began shaking with excitement. Before following the dogs, I directed one son to go to my right and the other to move to my left, while cautioning them yet again: “Safety stays on until you’re ready to shoot, always watch where your barrel is pointed, and be mindful of what is beyond your target.” After receiving a serious confirmation of “got it” from them both, everyone was ready, and we slowly walked into the area where our two dogs were pointing. With a flurry of feathers, out flushed four of the fastest flying quail I had ever seen. Gun shots went off, gunpowder filled the air, and downy feathers floated down to the ground as if to majestically celebrate our success. The dogs bounded through the broom straw on the forest floor to gather up our harvest. “Boys, are your guns’ safeties back on?” I prompted, reminding myself and the kids to always put safety first. “Yes sir,” they replied, acknowledging that they were listening and following the rules. Over the next three or so hours, this same routine—punctuated with some incredibly special moments—occurred several more times.

By the end of the day, the dogs were exhausted and our legs were tired, but our hearts were full and our faces were sore from all the laughter and smiles. “Dad, I’m happy,” my oldest confessed, followed by a “Me, too” from the other. When I agreed, “Me, too, boys. Me, too,” they spontaneously hugged my legs, as we stood in the middle of the woods reflecting on the recently made memories of the day. On the way home, which somehow didn’t seem to “take forever,” we were discussing dinner suggestions in between singing the lyrics to the latest country song playing over the radio. Although a fast-food drive-thru was our typical go-to spot, my oldest son offered a different suggestion: “Dad, we have got to eat those quail, but we have a bunch of them, so why don’t we take a few by Grandma’s house, so she can have some?” “Son, I can’t think of a better way to end the day,” I replied.

WHERE HOME CARE

Meets Compassion

• 24-Hour Care • Veteran Care • Respite Care • Personal Care • Alzheimer's and Dementia Care • Hospice and Palliative Care • Hospital Recovery Care

803-205-2562 CornerstoneCaregiving.com SEPTEMBER IS

Life Insurance Awareness Month

Providing Insurance and Financial Services Misty Stathos Insurance Agency, Inc. 1207 North Lake Dr. | Lexington | 803-951-9151 OurTownNow.com 23

USC GAMECOCKS DATE

OPPONENT

SITE

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

OPPONENT

SITE

Sep. 5 Sep. 12 Sep. 19 Sep. 25 Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7 Nov. 14 Nov. 20 Nov. 28

LSU Georgia Southern North Carolina California Miami OFF Charleston Southern Virginia Tech Florida State Syracuse Georgia Tech Duke South Carolina

Away Home Home Away Home OFF Home Home Away Away Home Away Home Game Times TBD

24 September/October 2026

DON’T FUMBLE YOUR VIEW

Score Your Everyday Look With Diamonds

QUO EE TES!

Auto • Home • Business

(803) 951-7200

1612 W. Main St., Lexington 803-951-7200 AbsoluteGlassInc.com

Serving Lexington for Over 25 Years! 903 North Lake Dr., Lexington Tues.-Fri. 10-6 & Sat. 10-2 | 803-996-5530 ChapmanCompanyJewelry.com

More Moments. Less Worry. Incontinence Services Brain Performance Enhancements Disease Prevention IV Therapy Peptide Therapy Skin-Perfecting Solutions Body Shaping

Dr. Henry Martin

Monica Staton, CFNP

4721D Sunset Blvd., Lexington | Mon. 12pm-4pm; Tues.-Thurs. 9am-4pm | 803-520-0506 | CardinalAgeManagement.com OurTownNow.com 25

Support Dogs for Veterans

Veteran Michael Wishnia By Mary Ann Hutcheson

he events a combat soldier experiences during war can be deep-rooted and painful. Exposure to that level of danger can affect a soldier’s physical and emotional life for years, often leading to post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms. Sleep issues, relationship challenges, and panic attacks are among the lasting effects that veterans may face. Service dogs can provide transformative support to veterans, helping them regain independence and emotional stability. Once known mainly as “seeing eye dogs,” service canines now fill a broader role. When well-trained and matched properly, they can be life-changing for veterans who need them. Michael Wishnia served nearly 15 years in the Marines, taking on leadership roles and deploying to Iraq and Afghanistan. During a firefight there, an explosion shattered his right leg, severely injuring him. Despite these challenges, Wishnia embarked on a self-empowerment journey. He became a non-lethal weapons instructor, martial arts instructor-trainer, and combat marksmanship coach, leading the Marksmanship Training Unit for the 1st Marine Regiment. In addition to setting military records, he joined Team USA for the 2016 Paralympic Games, where he was named “Outstanding Male Olympic Athlete of the Month” in May 2015. Unfortunately, the emotional and mental toll caused by active combat is often hard to overcome. On one particularly difficult night, Wishnia came very close to taking his own life. However, his dog Sammie, a German shepherd/Labrador mix, whom he rescued for companionship and not for service, saved his life when he intervened at the perfect moment. Because their bond was a powerful force, Wishnia began to educate himself about service dogs. He discovered that only about one percent of U.S. veterans who need a trained service

26 September/October 2026

dog can afford one, even when it could help them recover and regain independence. Costs can range anywhere from $20,000 to $60,000, and not all programs are trustworthy. Many veterans hesitate to seek help due to financial and emotional barriers, so access to service dogs often remains limited to those who need them the most. In his research, Wishnia discovered an organization in California called “4 Paws 4 Patriots.” This non-profit pairs a disabled American veteran with an untrained dog and instructs them together to become a service dog team—at no cost to the veteran. Currently, Wishnia has a one-year-old cane corso puppy named Achilles. While some canine assistance organizations avoid this breed due to their reputation, Wishnia emphasizes that, with proper instruction, any dog can be successfully trained. According to Wishnia, the corso’s size and strength are ideal for mobility assistance and bracing, critical requirements for Wishnia, and they can also support medical alerts or psychiatric needs. Looking ahead, Wishnia faces surgery to remove his right leg, and he is determined to move forward by relying on Achilles and his proper training to help him achieve peace and independence. Thus, the need for affordable service dogs is critical for veterans like Wishnia who are seeking healing after their service. Truly, dogs are man’s best friend, but in many cases, their assistance is not just life changing—it is lifesaving.

Get Ahead of the Cold Schedule Your Fall Preventative Maintenance

Serving Lexington, Richland County and Surrounding Areas

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

The Only Thing Worse than Candy Corn Is a Leaky Roof!

Schedule Your Free Roof Inspection Today! MagnoliaRoofsSC.com | 803-908-7131 Residential or Commercial OurTownNow.com 27

COMMUNITY

Packing with Purpose The LUMC Snack Sack Ministry By Guy Smith

very Tuesday morning during the school year, volunteers organize in a downstairs classroom at Lexington United Methodist Church (LUMC), filling plastic shopping bags with a variety of snacks. For an hour or more, crackers, ramen, granola bars, fruit snacks, grits, oatmeal, and other readyto-eat or easy-to-prepare foods are picked out of bins and dropped into sacks. The sacks get tied, packed 10 to a shopping bag, and carted out into the hallway to designated school areas. Later that day, or the next, volunteers deliver the sacks to school sites and pick up empty shopping bags for next week. Each week, the LUMC Snack Sack Ministry packs approximately 900 snack sacks for 15 school sites. That’s over 30,000 sacks a year. The sacks reach students at 11 schools in Lexington School District One, two schools in Lexington School District Three, and one school in Lexington School District Two. The camaraderie among the volunteers from Lexington United Methodist Church, Faith United Methodist Church, and the broader community is evident. Mostly retired folks, the Tuesday ritual is a good way to stay active in the community, catch up with friends, hear the latest sports updates and local news, and get a little exercise. But it’s much more important than that. Volunteers, and those who donate to the ministry, know the need is real. According to the Lexington County First Steps Annual Report (2024-2025), approximately 40% of young children in Lexington County live

28 September/October 2026

WIN BIG WITH LISA T. MOORE!

Lisa T. Moore

Lake Murray-Lexington County Real Estate Specialist

lisatmoore.com | 803-348-0601

OurTownNow.com 29

SCHOOL DISTRICT POVERTY INDEX 🏫 Lexington One 49.4% 🏫 Lexington Two 79.5% 🏫 Lexington Three 70.2% 🏫 Lexington Four 81.4% 🏫 Lexington 5 47.4% in poverty or low-income families. The 2025 South Carolina School Report Card Poverty Index (shared below) estimates an even higher level of poverty. No matter how you crunch the data, the bottom line is that too many children in Lexington County live with some degree of food insecurity. Most of us can only imagine the stress that comes with that uncertainty or the impact that food insecurity has on children’s academic achievement, physical health, and mental wellbeing. Many, like me, are incredibly blessed and have NEVER personally experienced food insecurity, only missing meals when we choose to. Unfortunately, for too many of our neighbors, cutting back or missing meals is not a choice. It is a necessity and a fact of life. The Snack Sack Ministry began in 2004, reaching a handful of students in one local school. Over the years, as the needs in our community came to the attention of the ministry leaders, and as more funding and volunteers became available, the ministry significantly

30 September/October 2026

expanded its scope. The mission, however, has remained the same: to lovingly share food with those in need. Two posters hanging in the Snack Sack room explain why we are there each week. Both are the words of Jesus. One reads: “I am the bread of life,” and the other says: “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat.” While we hope that our small food contributions help children get through the weekend, our deeper prayer is that they and their families will soon no longer be in need, and that they, their children, and their children’s children will never experience hunger or food insecurity again. As a church ministry, we hope that our small contribution to the great need around us makes a difference in children’s lives and in some way shares the love of Christ. While we do not know the individual children that receive our sacks, we know that each one deserves adequate shelter, good food, a quality education, and love. All those who pack and deliver snack sacks are unpaid volunteers. Funding for the program comes from donations from church members, gifts from community members, grants from generous corporate and non-profit sponsors, and a generous food donation from a Midlands’ food company. Donations are, of course, always appreciated and can be made electronically through the LUMC website at LexUMCSC.com/Give. Donations can also be made in person at LUMC, located at 309 East Main Street in Lexington. Based on estimated food costs for the year ahead: $70 will provide snack sacks for one child for the school year. $120 will take care of snack sacks for one average school for a week. $4,200 will cover snack sacks for one average school for a year. If you would like more information about the Snack Sack Ministry, you can check it out at LexUMCSC.com/Snack-Sack/OR you can contact Guy Smith, the Snack Sack Ministry Coordinator, at guypamsmith@gmail.com.

OurTownNow.com 31

Built to Shape, Protect & Transform Your Property SERVICES: • Erosion Control • Drainage • Shoreline Restoration • Landscaping • Tree Removal • Retaining Walls • Hardscapes • Clearing

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

• Grading • Gravel Road Installation • Excavation • Stabilization • Storm Drain Installation • Concrete Install & Removal • Pond Installation & Repair • Landscape Lighting

Estate Planning Trust and Probate Estates Elder and Family Law Real Estate Closings LEXINGTON OFFICE 106 East Main St. CHAPIN OFFICE 111 Columbia Ave.

Let’s Get Your Project Started! Call today for a consultation 803-309-2528

803-785-4529 | McCutchenMcLean.com

Chart your course. Don’t wait to begin your investment journey.

It’s never too early, or too late! I’m here to help!

Brandon Powell Financial Advisor

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

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

32 September/October 2026

Not Credit Union Guaranteed

Not Credit Union Deposits or Obligations

May Lose Value

Hospice Care: It's About How You Live By Denise Dickinsen

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 understand

Discover your new home at the Heritage at Lowman. The Lifestyle—Care-free Living & Support When Needed. Spend your days active, engaged, or at ease. Walk to dining, wellness, and the chapel. Enjoy fitness classes, pool, social gatherings, and lifelong learning. The Homes—Move-in ready. Open, modern interiors. Easy, single-level living.

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? Get connected with Beth McLean at the Heritage at Lowman: 803.732.8800 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.

Now Available! The Right Home, Ready for You.

Come see what feels like home.

803.451.7446 or Outreach@theHeritageAtLowman.org

2101 Dutch Fork Rd., Chapin

theHeritageAtLowman.org OurTownNow.com 33

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:

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.

34 September/October 2026

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 35

INSPIRATION

My Teacher Saw More… …Than Long Division By Scott Vaughan

was staring out the classroom window, imagining an epic confrontation between the U.S. Cavalry and proud Apache warriors. Occasionally, I would stop to write down what my mind’s eye was envisioning in the parking lot of my elementary school. As the heroic scene unfolded, I became aware of a shadow, which belonged to Carolyn Hicks, my fourth-grade teacher, looming over my desk. She had been trying her best to teach long division (which I hated then and still hate today), and she abruptly snatched up my story and told me to see her at the end of class. Even after this uncomfortable confrontation, Mrs. Hicks was still one of my favorite teachers. Rather than berate me for my lack of attention in math, she looked beyond the surface of my behavior and recognized my passion for writing. To encourage me, she suggested that I work on the stories at home, and when I brought them to school, she invited me to read them to our class. Eventually, I was sharing my tales over the intercom system with the entire school. A few years later, I had Teresa Day for seventh-grade English. When I told her I was going on a Boy Scout campout, she assigned me the task of writing a report about that two-night experience. After editing my narrative, she then walked with me to the local newspaper, at the end of the school day, where I was paid $1.25 for the submission of this story. I also received a promise from the editor that the newspaper would continue to publish anything else I decided to submit. Since that first $1.25, I’ve been paid to write for 55 years. I went on to college and studied journalism at the University of Georgia. This vocational path brought my family and me to Lexington in 1991 and, ultimately, led to a communications career in which I have helped churches and non-profits. Along the way, I’ve continued to write for publications near and far, and I’ve come full circle by writing this entry for my friend, Tracy Tuten, with Our Town Magazine. In October, I will publish my seventh book since 2014. Because of my sons’ encouragement, this one will be a Western titled, The Double X, an action-packed story set in Montana and Arizona during 1881. My first six publications are fictionalized accounts that are based on true stories from my life. This career of mine, which has been a lot of fun and has had so many chapters and angles, was set in motion when I was nine years old by a teacher who saw much further and deeper than long division. So, thank you, educators! Thank you for the way you see each child individually and help them to move their lives forward. May God bless the school year before you!

36 September/October 2026

SAVE THE DATE Saturday May 22, 2027

BOLAND'S

Family Reunion 745 Chapin Rd., Chapin BUILT ON FAMILY POWERED BY COMMUNITY

45 Years in the making

For 45 years, Boland's Hardware has been thankful to call Chapin home. We're celebrating our past, our present, and the amazing community that has been with us every step of the way.

Join us as we celebrate 45 years!

Anniversary Sales & Promotions

Vendor Exhibits & Demonstrations

Family Activities

Food Trucks

Touch-ATruck

All Day Giveaways

Live Music Tokyo Joe

Protecting Your Team, On and Off the Field Every great team needs a strong foundation, and every family needs dependable insurance Kevin Strickland 803.951.5541 ® coverage. Farm Bureau Insurance is here to help keep you protected through every quarter of life. Call today for a no-obligation quote for auto, home, life, and more!

Mitch Wilson 803.951.5541

James Etheridge, Jr. 803.951.8731

803.359.5541

Tommy Williams 803.951.8735

Andrew Hallman 803.951.8732

Austin King 803.951.8736

Kelly Woods 803.951.8739

121 Park Rd. · Lexington · 29072

© 2026 South Carolina Farm Bureau® Insurance Company; South Carolina Farm Bureau® Mutual Insurance Company; Southern Farm Bureau® Casualty Insurance Company; Palmetto Casualty Insurance Company; Palmetto Specialty Insurance Agency Inc.; Southern Farm Bureau® Life Insurance Company, Jackson, MS.