Our Town Magazine (Vol. 3. 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.
PUBLISHER’S LETTER
Have I ever mentioned that I am blessed with a huge family and many wonderful close friends who are considered family? We recently had a gathering, and over 60 people attended! Those that didn’t attend had completely valid reasons and were missed, but still… over 60 people! I know every one of them by name, can call on them any day of the week, and I love them beyond measure. My heart is so full when I consider how truly blessed I am to have such a wonderful support system who truly knows me. They are aware of my strengths, tendencies, gifts, and flaws, and continue to show up for me and my family time after time. It’s humbling, especially at the holidays.
Our season of celebration begins with Thanksgiving, which comes along with the debate of who is making the ever-important, most sought-after staple dish: macaroni and cheese. It’s funny how one dish made primarily of elbow noodles and cheese is one of the focal points in our holiday tradition. While some make it better than others, I must give props to my Mama on this one, and everyone in my family agrees, hands down: hers is the best!
Then there is the much-anticipated “Christmas Eve-Eve”. We have celebrated the night before Christmas Eve for many years with dear friends that, unfortunately, we only get to see once or twice a year. It’s always a great opportunity to reconnect and catch up with one another. Christmas Eve tends to be rather quiet these days, since my children have become adults, but we generally spend it together. Christmas morning looks a little different from the way it used to as well, but we still enjoy the infamous breakfast soufflé, with my parents visiting after gifts have been opened every year. After letting brunch settle a bit, we are off to the in-laws’ home to celebrate into the evening. It is a lot packed into a few days, but we enjoy seeing everyone.
All that being said, I know that there are some who may not be able to celebrate with their loved ones this holiday season. You may have family members living in different states or countries, or a loved one serving in the military who is unable to return home for the holidays, or you may simply prefer to celebrate solo. Whatever you choose to do, I hope that you do it your way, and in everything, give thanks to God for the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Without Him and the blessings he bestows, I don’t know where I would be today.
Thank you to our advertisers, readers, subscribers, and general fan club who call, comment, and share letters of praise for Our Town Magazine! Please remember to shop locally when you can, count your blessings, and enjoy your holidays! We appreciate each and every one of you and are looking forward to seeing everyone out and about in 2026!
Our Town Magazine extends heartfelt condolences to Mayor Al Koon's family and the Chapin community.
Local Events: November/December
Things
HIGHLIGHTED EVENT
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4-SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7
Town of Lexington’s Snowball Festival 2025
Icehouse Amphitheater, 107 West Main St., Lexington, Various dates and times
This spectacular four-day event includes several different features for the entire family! Get the fun started on Thursday, Dec. 4th browsing craft fair booths and taking photos with Santa (4pm), and stay for the traditional tree lighting (6:30pm). If you missed the craft fair and photos on Thursday, don’t fret—you still have from 4-8 pm on Friday, Dec. 5th to shop and pose, along with viewing The Polar Express movie (7:30pm). Bring the kids for the carnival (1pm) on Saturday, Dec. 6th, followed by The Santa Clause movie (5:30pm). And, last but not least, grab a few chairs and enjoy the Jaycees Christmas Parade on Sunday, Dec. 7th (3pm).
LexSC.gov
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2
Lexington County Veterans Parade
Main St., Lexington, 3pm
This parade is to honor and remember those who gave all; in loving appreciation of service to all Veterans and first responders. Marching bands and a family-friendly atmosphere welcome all ages to attend.
Performers from the South Carolina Philharmonic will join Historic Columbia to present a beautiful concert of light classics in the garden, beginning at 6pm (doors open after 5pm). This event includes woodwind trios from Hassan Anderson, Jeremy Cohen and Patrick Herring. Bring your
own blanket or chairs, and pack a picnic meal if desired. Tickets are required (ages 21 and over) and space is limited; ample street parking surrounds the property. In the event of inclement weather, this concert will be moved indoors to the Boyd Horticultural Center Greenhouse on the grounds of the Hampton-Preston Mansion.
SCPhilharmonic.com
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14
Lower Saluda Craft Beer Fest Saluda Shoals Park 5605 Bush River Rd., Columbia, 6pm-9pm
Sip and savor beer tastings from top local craft breweries, listen to live bluegrass music, and enjoy delicious dishes. This event is for ages 21 and up; tasting tickets are $30, $35 on the day of the event.
ICRC.net
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14
Mission Lexington's Oyster Roast for a Reason Icehouse Amphitheater
107 West Main St., Lexington, 6pm-9:30pm
Enjoy a feast of fresh oysters, savory sides and delectable desserts, all while grooving to live music. Cash bar and silent auction items are available; proceeds benefit Mission Lexington’s ministries.
MissionLexingtonSC.org
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 30
Sensory Santa Visit
Saluda Shoals Park 5605 Bush River Rd., Columbia, 1pm-5pm
Created for children and adults of all ages with sensory or cognitive disabilities and their families, this event offers a calm, low-stress environment. Santa visits are scheduled in time blocks to minimize noise and crowds. Each ticket ($20 per family) includes one 5x7 photo, additional prints available for purchase.
ICRC.net
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6
Town of Irmo Christmas Parade
Crossroads Intermediate School
6949 St. Andrews Rd., Irmo, 9am
Prepare for a morning filled with festive floats, marching bands, local organizations, and perhaps even a special appearance from Santa himself! Bundle up, bring your holiday cheer, and join us for a morning of festive fun!
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11
Senior Singles Mingle
The Meech House at Mungo Park
2121 Lake Murray Blvd., Columbia, 5pm-8pm Ages 55 and up enjoy a fun evening with ice-breaker speed dating, games, finger foods, live music, and a cash bar. Meet someone special, make new friends, or find future travel buddies! $20 per person. To register, call 803772-3336 or 803-345-6181.
ICRC.net
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 19
Candy Cane Hunt
Crooked Creek Park 1098 Old Lexington Hwy., Chapin, 3:30pm-4:30pm
Santa and his elves will be hiding candy canes at Crooked Creek Park for kids ages 1-12, along with a few surprises! Entrance is $3 per child.
ICRC.net
In Remembrance An Honest to God Hero
By Guy Smith
On the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month of 1918, the armistice ending major hostilities in World War I, the “war to end all wars,” went into effect. The following November, President Wilson proclaimed November 11 to be Armistice Day to commemorate the end of the war and to recognize the “heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory.” In 1954, following America’s involvement in World War II and the Korean War, Congress replaced the word armistice with the word veterans and established Veterans Day to honor all veterans. In his proclamation, the first Veterans Day President, Eisenhower, encouraged all to “solemnly remember the sacrifices of all those who fought so valiantly, on the seas, in the air, and on foreign shores, to preserve our heritage of freedom.”
As I remember those who sacrificed, I always reflect on my father’s service so many years ago. Inducted in 1943 at Fort Jackson at the age of 25, Dad trained at Fort Bragg (now renamed Fort Liberty) in North Carolina before heading overseas with the Sixth Army, 33rd Infantry Division. He served in the field artillery in New Guinea, Morotai, and the Philippines. He was also part of the troops who served as occupying forces in Japan after their surrender in August of 1945. All told he was in service in the States for about seven months and overseas for a year and eight months.
Growing up, my buddies and I watched World War II movies when we could and faithfully viewed “Combat” on Tuesday nights. We played Army in the backyard and in the woods behind our houses. My sister and I would occasionally pull out the boxes of treasures from the Pacific that Dad had shipped home, like coins, kimonos, silk handkerchiefs, and a couple of Japanese flags. We would look at the memory book printed for his unit or the picture album from his World War II travels. It was real-life National Geographic material. Occasionally, we could handle the Japanese rifle, bayonet, and sword that were stored… oddly… in the corner of the storage shed, right next to the shovels, hoe, and rake. Rarely, however, did we hear stories from the war.
There were a few things. Dad refused to eat lamb or mutton. He said he had had enough while overseas. He also did not care for potatoes, a combination I think of his family’s penchant for rice and his KP experience in the Army. My sister, who is three years older than I, remembers him referring to rotting garbage as smelling like “death.” He stated on a number of occasions that he was only scared once while in the war… “from the time he left until he got home.” The only thing close to bragging about his duty I ever heard was his reference to the 33rd being part of the forces that liberated Baguio, the Summer Capital of the Philippines. Never a big flag-waver, he was quietly patriotic, only donning his World War II baseball cap, given to him by family late in his life. Not once did he encourage me to join the military.
I am ashamed to say that I was well past grown before I realized that Dad, like several of his biological brothers, and millions of his brothers and sisters in arms, was an honest to God hero. I also came to believe that while he made it home with no physical scars, he probably carried emotional and mental scars I was too blind to see. For some reason, I forgot he was at one time a young man shipped halfway around the world, surrounded by mud, mosquitoes, malaria, death, and danger. Perhaps those memories of lost friends and the unfathomable destruction he saw in Japan haunted him more than
I knew. Dad was always a loving father, but occasionally those demons would seep out. I hope I gave him the grace he deserved at the time. I certainly do now.
So, on this Veterans Day, make a call, send a card or text, attend a parade, and fly a flag. If you served, I know you could have said all of this so much better than I ever could. For those of us who did not serve, let us give thanks, give grace, give respect, and give love.
HAPPY VETERANS DAY!
4pm-9pm TUES-SAT 11am-9pm SUN 4pm-8pm
Bountiful Harvest
By Marilyn Thomas
To uphold the spirit of Thanksgiving, local law enforcement, along with dozens of partnering organizations, will be participating in Lexington’s Annual Bountiful Harvest community event on Wednesday, November 19, 2025. This family-friendly, public program promotes local information and resources by distributing boxes of non-perishable food items, and providing a catered meal by the Southern barbecue restaurant, Hudson’s Smokehouse. Lexington’s mayor, Hazel Livingston, is excited to be a part of the program’s ninth event, “The Town of Lexington is honored to host Bountiful Harvest,” she explains. “This is a wonderful event that ensures those in need have the tools and resources to make their holiday season a little brighter.”
SANTA APPROVED FLOORING!
“We are proud to support the Annual Bountiful Harvest event in Lexington, South Carolina,” adds Dr. Kassy Alia Ray, founder and CEO of Serve & Connect, one of the key nonprofits partnering in this philanthropic function. “In 2018, the Lexington Police Department had a vision to bring neighbors together over fellowship, care, and support. It is incredible to see how that vision has grown year after year, touching hundreds of lives annually.”
In fact, since Bountiful Harvest’s inception, the number of entities involved in this activity has grown to include town, county, and state law enforcement and service organizations from local as well as neighboring municipalities. Over the years, they have provided thousands of residents—from dozens of zip codes—with food and life-enhancing resources. “We are extremely grateful for the partnership that the Chapin Police Department has with Serve & Connect,” says Chapin’s Chief of Police, Thomas Griffin. “The services they provide allow our officers to connect with our community and build trust on a personal level.”
Those interested in volunteering and attending this event can “check our website, LexSC.gov, and follow along on social media for the latest information,” says Sergeant Cameron Mortenson of the Lexington Police Department. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with the local community and discover what these neighboring service organizations have to offer.
As these law enforcement agencies come together to serve the community again this year, the staff of Our Town Magazine would like to express our deep gratitude and urge our fellow citizens to get involved when and where they can, whether through this outreach program or other organization. You never know what giving your time, knowledge, and additional resources will do to help others. Giving not only blesses the receiver, but the giver as well.
Lexington County Holiday Guide
Curbside or Recycling Centers
Paper
Cardboard
Aluminum Cans
Plastic Bot tles & Jugs ONLY Accepted at Recycling Centers
Used Cooking Oil/Grease
String Lights/Cookie Tins (Scrap Metal)
Flocked, Plastic or Decorated Trees (Yard Trash)
How to Compost Natural Trees
Remove all decor
Break down wood pieces so they are not greater than 4' in Length or 4" in Diameter. (If unable to get to this size, please bring to the Edmund Landfill Composting Facility.)
*NOTE-not all centers accept clean wood waste. See below for a list of locations .
Bring to any of these locations and place in clean WOOD WASTE .
1. Augusta Rd- 4765 Augusta Rd, Lexing ton
2. Ball Park Rd- 301 Ball Park Rd, Lexing ton
3. Bush River Rd- 6109 Bush River Rd, Columbia
4. Chapin- 103 Distant Lane, Chapin
5. Edmund Collection Center- 325 Landfill Lane, Lexing ton
6. Edmund Landfill- 498 Landfill Lane, Lexing ton
7. Sandhills- 3241 Charleston HW Y, Cayce
FLYING SOLO
Merrily Single
Single or Not?
By Tommy Gee
It’s a question that’s often tossed out casually in conversation, but the answer—especially for someone like me—rarely lands without weight.
At over 50, never married, and without children, I’ve grown used to the reactions. Especially during the holidays. When I say I’m single, people don’t just hear a relationship status; they see a story they’re not sure how to interpret. Some offer quiet condolences, as if I’ve lost something dear. Others visibly recoil, unsure of what to say next—as though they’ve accidentally touched on a trauma.
It’s assumed there must be a backstory: a heartbreak, a loss, a failed marriage. Surely, they think, no one would choose to remain single and child-free. But in my case, that’s exactly what it is—a choice. One I made consciously, and one I continue to stand by with clarity and peace of mind.
There’s a sort of “scarlet letter” society assigns to people like me. You feel it in conversations, in family gatherings, in the way people glance sideways when the topic of marriage or children arises. There’s a discomfort that lingers, and a silent, unspoken question that often follows, “What went wrong?”
I understand where it comes from. After all, traditional paths are still very much the norm. The assumption is that fulfillment lies in partnership and parenthood—and if you’ve opted out, you must be missing something. But here’s the truth: I’ve never wanted to be a husband or a father. Not because I dislike the ideas, but because I know myself. And I’ve always known that those roles, while meaningful for many, are not meant for me.
That doesn’t mean I’m disconnected or aloof. Quite the opposite. I love romance. I enjoy the warmth of family. I cherish my friendships. I’m the fun uncle at holiday gatherings, the one who shows up with jokes and zero pressure to follow any script. And it’s a role I’ve come to whole-heartedly embrace.
Being single by choice doesn’t mean I don’t value connection. It simply means I’ve sought it in different forms. For me, companionship comes through community, hobbies, shared experiences, and meaningful conversations. I enjoy people—and their children, their spouses, their stories. I’ve just taken a different route through life, one that’s often questioned, but rarely understood for what it truly is: valid, intentional, and whole.
Still, I know many people are actively searching for their soulmate, and I respect that. But I’d also gently challenge the idea that you must always be looking for a partner. Some of life’s best surprises show up when you stop searching and start living.
If you’re hoping to meet new people—or even just rediscover yourself— start by stepping out of your comfort zone. Attend a local festival. Sign up for that dance class. Visit a farmer’s market, or volunteer at a community event. Try a cooking workshop or a local art walk. These are more than activities; they’re invitations to share experiences.
Some of the most enjoyable moments of my life came from simply saying “yes” to something new. And in those spaces, I’ve realized something beautiful: people are people. Whether married, single, divorced, or figuring it all out, we’re all seeking joy, connection, and meaning in our own ways.
You might not find your soulmate at a pottery class or local concert— but you just might find laughter, new friends, or a piece of yourself you didn’t know was missing.
So, whether you’re single by choice, by circumstance, or somewhere in between—know this: your worth is not tied to your relationship status. You don’t need to be searching to grow; you don’t need to be partnered to be complete.
Get out. Be spontaneous. Say “yes” to something unexpected. At the very least, you’ll make a memory. And at best? You might just find the kind of connection you weren’t even looking for.
Keeping the Holidays Special While Caregiving
s we grow older, the holidays often begin to look different. Families change, traditions evolve, and health or distance may limit the celebrations we once knew. But growing older also brings something beautiful—wisdom, perspective, and a deeper appreciation for what truly matters. For caregivers, the holidays can also bring extra stress, fatigue, and emotional strain. November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time to recognize those who support loved ones suffering from chronic conditions, injuries, disabilities, or diseases. These unsung heroes not only provide a critical value to society, but often they are the only bridge between the loved one’s health insurance capabilities and finances that might otherwise be impossible. Many caregivers give so much of themselves throughout the year that the holidays can feel overwhelming or bittersweet. Supporting them during this time can make a world of difference.
Encourage
Caregivers to
Acknowledge Their Own Feelings
It’s okay to feel a mix of emotions as a caregiver. The holidays can instantly bring back memories of people, places, or heartfelt
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seasons of life from long ago. This is the time to acknowledge the positive outcomes, achievements, and improvements that result from creating comfort and dignity in someone’s life every single day. Expressing feelings is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Listen with Compassion
Sometimes what caregivers need most is someone who will simply listen. The holidays can stir up strong emotions—grief, guilt, or loneliness. A kind, nonjudgmental ear can help process feelings and provide companionship simultaneously, diminishing isolation.
Be Flexible and Understanding
Caregivers may need to adjust holiday plans or traditions due to their loved one’s health or needs. Be patient if they decline invitations or leave gatherings early. Offer inclusion without pressure, and remind them they’re welcome in whatever approach works best for them.
Let Others Take Part in Giving
For those who have spent a lifetime caring for others, receiving help can feel unfamiliar. Whether it’s running an errand, providing respite care, or simply offering companionship, allowing others to help is a way of giving them joy as well. When family, friends, or caregivers lend a hand, they are expressing love and gratitude—just as you have done for them. Accepting support can lighten your load and help preserve your own energy for the moments that matter most.
Honor Memories While Remaining Open to Creating New Ones
It’s natural to reflect on holidays past—the people who shaped our lives, the traditions that brought joy. Sharing those stories keeps them alive and helps others understand the richness of our experiences. At the same time, being open to new traditions, such as a holiday sing-along, craft, or candlelight gathering, can bring fresh joy and connection. Even when the holidays look different, they can still be beautiful. Joy is found not in what we do, but in how we share love, laughter, and gratitude with one another.
The Wellness Center at Lowman offers a variety of fitness & wellness opportunities for participants of all abilities and skill levels including Tai-Chi, Yoga, Aqua Groove, Zumba Gold, and more. What’s more, aging adults are eligible to join the Wellness Center for a monthly membership fee (like a gym membership), even if they do not live on campus. Popular social activities at the Heritage at Lowman include card games such as Bridge and Hand & Foot, Pub Trivia, and our monthly potluck dinner where the main course is provided by our bistro, with residents each providing a side dish or dessert to share with friends.
Assisting Hands Home Care A Business Built on Love
By Mary Ann Hutcheson
One of the leading in-home care franchises in Lexington County, Assisting Hands® Home Care, was created by Tom and Jayne Falk in 2012 with a foundational model of providing care, compassion, integrity, and support for those in need. This is reiterated in their mission statement which, in part, promises "…to offer our clients personalized non-medical support services in their homes, assisting the elderly, disabled, and others needing assistance to maintain quality of life. Our services support the individual's choices and preferences to maintain their dignity and independence." For Tom, the family business is deeply personal.
TEAM JAYNE
Tom’s wife, Jayne, bravely faces the ongoing challenges of Multiple Sclerosis, an auto-immune disease affecting the central nervous system for which there is no cure. Tom's personal journey, which originally initiated from ensuring Jayne's well-being, is the core from which the entire program at Assisting Hands® Home Care emerged; it is his desire to extend that same level of care to others facing similar struggles and their families.
Building the program, securing necessary licenses, maintaining qualified staff, acquiring medical equipment, and undergoing continuous training certifications is a slow, but steady and evolving process, Tom explains. "You're dealing with families who need care for their loved ones, and you have to establish a reputation in the community. No one really knew who we were, and the corporate franchise was still in its infancy,” he continues. “We had to brand everything ourselves; there were a lot of speed bumps along the way. Thirteen years later, and we're still kicking," he says. The name of their corporation is Team Jayne.
Jayne was born in the small, southwest town of Opelousas, Louisiana and graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Southwestern Louisiana (now University of Louisiana at Lafayette). She was diagnosed with MS in the late 1980s. Her rich culinary Cajun background contributed to her love for cooking good food, vibrant Cajun music, and growing up in a close-knit community. The couple married in 1999; both parties were fully aware
of what the commitment entailed. "In the beginning," Tom says, "she danced at our wedding; everything was fine. About the time we moved here in 2008, she started having some falls, eventually navigating through the progression of a cane, the walker, and now, the wheelchair." She retired from her 25-year occupation as a paralegal in 2008.
A wheelchair friendly home has immensely contributed to Jayne becoming more independent while Tom is at work. Conversely, limited public wheelchair accessibility and the intricate transfer process from home to destination have curtailed activities for the couple. Accustomed to it, Tom says, "It's become a part of our lives; we lead a simple life." One that includes their 60-pound rescue dog, Bubby. Not wanting to be an enduring burden to her husband, Jayne is determined to do as much as she can and emphasizes how much Tom has learned about caregiving through their journey.
AN EXTENSION OF LOVE
As you can imagine, there is a great deal of understanding, patience, and love between Jayne and Tom. Those same components, along with strength, determination, and knowledge, have naturally overflowed to their thriving business. In the caregiving world, there is an invisible, delicate balance that must be protected above all else, as Tom agrees, “We always have to have enough caregivers to maintain a client base, and enough clients to keep caregivers happy and employed.”
Creating a comfortable, inviting, friendly, family environment within company structure is essential for Tom, who says, “It truly takes a village.” The team of 35 Assisting Hands® Home Care employees are very well taken care of financially and educationally and are treated with integrity and respect resulting in long term caregiver retention. Caregivers are licensed, bonded and insured, ranging in age from 19 to 85, with skill sets ranging from companionship care to full, certified nursing assistance. Each employee undergoes a thorough background check, is subjected to drug screenings, and has extensive training along with required CPR/First Aid certifications and DHEC certifications. For nursing students and CNAs who need continuing education credits, training is provided to qualify for Continuing Education Units (CEUs).
Regardless of extenuating circumstances, each stage of the program is professionally and strategically executed. Before sending a caregiver, a staff member visits the home to perform a thorough initial assessment and a home safety evaluation. As protocol is reviewed and information is recorded and confirmed, the family is assured that they will receive a qualified caregiver to handle the particular issues at hand, specific to the elderly client. Communication is crucial, and one of the most popular features of Assisting Hands® Home Care for clients and employees is the amazing electronic portal. This portal not only facilitates transparency, but it includes a schedule, assigned tasks and appointments, case history, and a profile image of the assigned caregiver. Caregivers and family members can record (in real time) any concerns/issues that arise or require attention. This software not only tracks the client’s progress
and responses to care, it chronicles the employee’s service from the time that they apply until the time that they leave the company.
A CONTINUING LEGACY
According to the Department of Health and Human Services, one in three Americans provide unpaid informal care every year to their ill or disabled family members or friends. This is a critical need and it is Tom and Jayne’s desire that Assisting Hands® Home Care serves the community as a complete public resource. “There are many things that people don't know until it's too late. With over 13 years of experience, we can help guide them through the process of caring for their loved one.” Gently used equipment and materials are often donated to the agency, and they pay it forward when possible. Their program is accredited by the VA with ninety percent of funding being private; long-term care benefits are also accepted, and specific government vouchers are accepted upon approval.
Tom remarks that the biggest compliment he can get sometimes is, “Hey, you’ve done a great job, we don’t need you anymore.” More often than not the same client will need help at a later date, and Assisting Hands® Home Care will be there in more ways than one. It is Tom’s ultimate goal to continue to improve and expand the business, resulting in a beautiful legacy before his retirement. In addition to their Lexington location, the projected plan is to open an additional Columbia office in the near future.
Assisting Hands® Home Care
104 Hamilton St., Lexington, SC 29072 AssistingHands.com/Midlands 803-661-7557
Caring For Mom Like She Cared for You
By Jerry Grimes
The 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 that weren’t enough, Lisa began experiencing shortness of breath on some of our weekend hikes—outings we often used to escape and reconnect with God. 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 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 doctor’s appointments. But Linda’s decline made it clear; Betty couldn’t 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.
Betty wasn’t 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 kind of tribute to her mom’s long, rich life.
Most mornings and many evenings, we’d find Betty in her chair by the window with her open Bible. We often overheard her praying for each family REVERSING ROLES
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 weren’t just candy—they were medicine. “They keep me regular,” she insisted, though no doctor ever confirmed the theory.
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 wasn’t the same. To protect her, we stayed home, too, which made the season even more difficult.
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 wasn’t an option—Betty wouldn’t 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’s through the ordinary act of simply loving someone. Caring for Betty wasn’t 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, it leaves behind a legacy that outlives us all.
If you find yourself, or someone you know, in a similar position and in need of general direction, Elizabeth Trenbeath has graciously shared her personal experience and recommendations with us. Elizabeth 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. Upon realizing her mother’s specific needs and limitations, she developed a creative and compassionate care approach. 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:
• Set a meeting with the family and other caregivers every three months to compare notes, express concerns and 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 can not make it to church services, bring the celebration to them online.
• Stop trying to lift your loved one. The Hoyer Lift is a God given invention that assists lifting your loved one from the bed to a wheelchair.
• Hang pictures, display a digital photo frame, or showcase a vibrant collage to honor your loved one's youth. This serves as a subtle reminder of the person’s life, contributions, aspirations, interests, and achievements.
• Try not to become jaded, even when they seem to make 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 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 outside of 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.
WHERE HOME CARE
The Recipe Box
By Virginia Gates
Irarely 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 would typically have time to enjoy. However, one evening at dinner, a dear friend, Rob Shirley, suggested there was one movie I needed to watch. As a fellow foodie who has worked in the restaurant industry his entire career, I took his words to heart and sat down to relax and enjoy.
The movie was Nonnas, a 2025 Netflix biographical comedy-drama that celebrates food, family, and life. 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. He holds onto a letter left by her, but is hesitant to open it as he knows it will be the last thing she says to him. He hires four Nonnas (Italian for grandmother), who were also his mother’s closest friends, to be the chefs who will 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 the recipes, only the childhood memories of what he thought them to be.
After many hurdles, he opens the doors of the restaurant only to find family and friends who stop by to dine, but unfortunately, it is not enough to keep the doors open.
In a final effort to keep the restaurant afloat, he reaches out to food critics and numerous 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.
After feeling defeated about his new endeavor, he decides to open the letter from his mom. It reads, “Joey, I wish I could have given you more. Love, Mom.” Tucked behind the letter was her cherished recipe that he so longingly was trying to create. With renewed hope and a true sense of purpose, he immediately goes into the kitchen to make her sauce and is transported back to his boyhood memories. Later, his friend stops by with a glowing review of the restaurant from one of the food critics. Word, of course, gets out about the restaurant, and guests start pouring in. The restaurant 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 break in a time when I was feeling rather downhearted. That week was a particularly difficult one for me. 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 was thinking back on this movie and the fond memories I had of my own grandmother, Virginia; especially her cooking.
how to preserve fresh fruits and vegetables during the summer to sitting on the porch with a bushel of beans and having various conversations about life (what I would consider the original Snapchat). Food was always at the heart of my time spent with her.
Our family has always had holiday drop-ins, and my grandmother would prepare the entire spread of appetizers and desserts. She would always allow my sister and me to help, and we eagerly jumped in to do her bidding. We loved putting on 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 in being 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 her recipe box, if I could have a few recipes held within this box to recreate her infamous dishes for our family get-togethers. After one of my cancer treatments, my aunt brought me a bag. She mentioned there was a meal for my family in the bag, as she knows treatments zap all my energy. I was grateful. She said there were some other
things I could use within the bag, but did not mention what was in the bottom.
Later that evening, I sat there in tears as I reached my hand down and felt the treasure she had left. She had given me 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 movie and knowing her memory will live on through this gift.
As we all gather this holiday season, may we remember those not with us, cherish the ones that are, and honor all the love shared between us all. After all, that’s the true recipe for life.
Sharing God’s Love
Fulfilling His Command to Serve
By Paige Youmans
For the poor shall never cease out of the land: therefore I command thee, saying, Thou shalt open thine hand wide unto thy brother, to thy poor, and to thy needy, in thy land. -KJV, Deuteronomy 15:11
Sharing God’s Love (SGL) is a Christian-based 501(c)(3) charitable organization serving the communities of Irmo, Ballentine, and St. Andrews, assisting individuals and families struggling to secure basic living necessities. The organization obeys God’s directive to care for the disadvantaged by providing clothing, food, groceries, financial assistance, and spiritual support. Working collaboratively with community churches, SGL is able to better coordinate services for the individuals and families it serves. A centralized location to collect and distribute donations and
connect those in need with available resources was established in 1984, which immediately streamlined the program.
Led by the energetic and impactful Director, Shari Selke, and the mission-focused Board of Directors representing local churches, SGL has faithfully maintained its efforts. Today SGL has expanded its physical footprint and extended its service reach—all without the use of public funding. In fact, during 2024, SGL improved 11,664 lives through Thanksgiving dinners, Christmas dinners and gifts, clothes, school supplies, and general pantry items.
Because of faithfulness both in its ser-
vice provision and financial stewardship, Sharing God’s Love received the Angel Award from SC Secretary of State Mark Hammond in 2022. To be eligible for this honor, a charity must meet rigorous financial and service criteria including devoting over 80% of funds to service programs and complying with SC’s Solicitation of Charitable Funds Act. With the work of a small staff and a tremendous volume of volunteers, SGL was honored with the award and proudly noted a charitable giving rate over 92%.
Selke notes comradery and fellowship between staff and volunteers first and foremost when discussing the success of SGL’s programs and the recognition by the Secretary of State. She attributes common shared purpose as the driving force for the consistent dedication to serve, stating that “one of the greatest blessings to the mission is our volunteers. Each has their own unique reason to answer the Lord's call, and they selflessly and faithfully serve. The joy in which they serve is contagious. Along with the amazing staff, their dedication makes Sharing God's Love a reliable place to come for assistance.”
After a warm greeting from Director Selke and a guided tour of the busy facility, Our Town Magazine was briefed on the programs offered, SGL’s role in the community, and its various challenges and achievements. To be eligible for assistance through Sharing God’s Love, the interviewing applicant must provide documentation regarding current residency in one of three zip codes—29063, 29210, or 29212. Age
is not an issue; there are also special benefits and programs designed for seniors 60 years old and over. Accepted clients typically receive food and clothing once a month, if needed, and financial assistance once a year, excluding rent or water bills. As for specific and current needs, Selke referenced a verified digital list for individual items requested as well as continued financial support and in-kind donations. However, her initial priority was a sincere request for prayers for the organization as well as the clients served. Selke has personally witnessed God’s provision for SGL’s purpose and mission, citing multiple remarkable instances of answered prayers for clients and the organization.
Although supporting disadvantaged families in their time of critical need may superficially appear to only improve lives on an individual level, the benefits do not stop there. This type of assistance promotes better health collectively, breaks cycles of poverty, and creates a more stable, calm, and inviting community as a whole. Faye, a former client of SGL, reinforced the success of the program. She explained that she reached out to SGL for help during a financially strained period in her family’s life many decades ago, and that she has never forgotten the blessings bestowed upon her family. The support and assistance she received led her to return to SGL as a volunteer, which Selke notes is a common theme for many volunteers and donors alike. She explained that the SGL staff intentionally builds and strengthens relationships with clients, walking
with them through the difficult circumstances they are facing; many of those clients want to pay it forward in kind. Ready to improve someone’s life? SGL presents many opportunities throughout the year to get involved (in person and online), such as the annual SGL Benefit Golf Tournament, the Souper Bowl of Caring, seasonal yard sales, and nation-wide reward programs from participating grocery stores, farmer’s markets, and merchants. Civic groups, community clubs, and organizations are invited to participate in, host, or sponsor SGL fundraising events or service projects such as shoe drives, food collections, school supply drives, or campaigns for general donations and contributions.
Known as the Camel for Christ, Abraham served the Midlands area for 29 years, sharing God’s message in live performances, events, and parades. He brought smiles and giggles to every face as would throw his head back while guzzling Mountain Dew, his favorite beverage! The staff of Our Town Magazine would like to express our heartfelt condolences and appreciation to the Fisher family for so graciously sharing Abraham’s light with our community.
Rest In Peace Abraham
Tis The SEASON
The excitement of Christmas morning comes from celebrating Jesus’ birthday and watching children’s faces light up as they open their gifts. Our Town Magazine asked our recipe gurus to provide a meal that will enhance your time spent with family this holiday season. We hope you’ll enjoy these fares and have a very Merry Christmas morning!
Kale and Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
INGREDIENTS:
Unsalted butter, room temperature
1/2 lb. bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
4 c. WP Rawl Farms® Kale
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 dozen eggs
1 c. whole milk
1 tbsp. dijon mustard
6 oz. mozzarella cheese, grated
6 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, grated
20 oz. bag frozen, grated hash browns, thawed and patted dry Salt and pepper as desired
INSTRUCTIONS:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with butter. In a large skillet or dutch oven cook bacon and onion until the bacon is crispy and the onion is translucent. Add garlic and kale and saute about 3 minutes until kale is slightly wilted. Remove from heat. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and dijon. Mix in the hash browns, 1 cup of sharp cheddar, 1 cup of mozzarella, and salt & pepper. Stir the kale and bacon mixture into the egg mixture and pour into the buttered dish. Top evenly with the remaining cheese and cover with foil. Bake for 45 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake, uncovered for 15 minutes or until the top is lightly browned and bubbly. Serve hot and enjoy!
Rawl.net
Christmas Morning Cinnamon Rolls
INGREDIENTS:
1/4 c. whole milk, warmed
1 tsp. instant yeast
1 1/2 tbsp. honey
1 1/2 c. unbleached all-purpose flour
1 egg
1/4 c. butter (divided, room temperature)
1/2 tsp. sea salt (divided)
Avocado oil spray (divided)
3 tbsp. brown sugar
1 tbsp. cinnamon
INSTRUCTIONS:
First, start the dough. In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together the warm milk, yeast, and honey. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Mix in the flour, egg, and half the butter. Using the dough hook, knead 7–10 minutes on medium-low until smooth. Sprinkle in half the salt and knead 1 more minute. With the first rise, lightly spray a bowl with oil. Shape the dough into a ball, place it inside, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size. Next, make the filling: mix the remaining butter with brown sugar, cinnamon, and the rest of the salt. Roll the dough into an 8-inch rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick. Spread the cinnamon mixture evenly on top. To shape the rolls, start from the long side, roll the dough into a log. Slice into 6 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rest 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake 20–25 minutes, until golden brown. Serve warm and enjoy!
EatingForHealing.org
Savory Sausage Breakfast Cake with Hot Maple Syrup
INGREDIENTS:
1 lb. breakfast sausage
1 small onion, chopped
1 c. chopped red bell pepper
1 c. chopped green bell pepper
1 c. shredded cheddar cheese
1 egg, beaten
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
2 c. biscuit mix
3/4 c. milk
1/4 c. sour cream
Real maple syrup, heated
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a 9x9 baking pan with cooking spray; set aside. Cook and crumble sausage, onions, and peppers in a large skillet until sausage is cooked through. Remove from heat, then let cool. Do not drain unless there is standing fat/liquid. Add cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and garlic to sausage mixture and stir well. Combine biscuit mix, milk, and sour cream in a large mixing bowl and stir until just combined. Add sausage mixture to dough mixture and stir until all ingredients are evenly combined. Spread batter into prepared pan and bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown. Cut into squares, then drizzle with hot maple syrup to serve. Serve hot and savor the flavor.
Christmas at the Old Tastee Freez
By Scott Vaughan
East of the Rockies, Christmas 1983 was one of the coldest ever. I was 24 and volunteered with the local Jaycee organization at Christmastime in southeast Georgia. The Jaycees ran the local Christmas charity, collecting gently used toys and handing them to children in need of Christmas cheer. A food box also went to each family. On Christmas Eve, the Jaycees dispersed two-by-two, making deliveries all over the county and throughout the day. Our headquarters was an old, empty Tastee Freez location. At the day’s end, I was assigned to the team cleaning up the Tastee Freez. I was sweeping the front room littered with bits of wrapping paper, misfit toys, and dime-store trinkets. Others were organizing the room for a clean-out after Christmas.
The door suddenly opened, and a grade-school boy stepped inside and out of the cold. He started rummaging through the piles of leftovers. We didn’t know where he came from, why he seemed alone, and why his search seemed so frantic. He was on a mission.
“I need a gift for my mama,” he said without pausing the search. We supposed he lived behind the Tastee Freez, and a box delivered to his home did not contain gifts for adults. For adults, the gift was food.
Finally, he held up a small plastic diamond ring – the kind you get from a gumball machine in the corner of a barbershop. He was elated. We were elated because he was elated. We found an empty jewelry store box and put the ring inside for him.
I heard him say, “Thanks,” as he bolted into the cold darkness.
About 30 minutes passed, and it was time to get home for Christmas. The last to leave, I turned off the building’s lights and locked the old glass doors of the Tastee Freez. Walking to my car, I saw a small figure emerge from a ditch at the rear of the parking lot. I could make out the little boy’s silhouette in the sad light of an outdoor floodlight.
I heard him shouting and started to walk toward him, fearing he was in trouble, but then I stopped. His words were wonderfully clear, penetrating the cold night air on this Christmas Eve.
“She loved it! She loved it!” he shouted. I smiled and clapped my hands as I thought, ‘There’s no sweeter sound than the joy that comes when someone realizes how better it is to give than to receive at Christmastime.’
