Our Town Magazine September/October

™ September/October 2025

LOCAL PRIDE FRIENDLY RIVALRY

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PUBLISHER’S LETTER

I

Publisher Tracy Tuten Editor Kristi Antley Design and Production Kristina Parella Volunteer Coordinator Paige Youmans Contributing Writers Lauren Delk Tommy Gee Chris Hadley Mary Ann Hutchenson Guy Smith Marilyn Thomas Scott Vaughan Photographers Carolina Athletics Clemson Athletics Sales Tracy Tuten Tracy@OurTownNow.com 839-205-0717 Our Town Magazine (Vol. 3. Ed.5.) is a bi-monthly magazine published by RIT Media LLC. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced without written authorization from the Owner of RIT Media. The publisher is not responsible for the authors’ opinions or comments or the advertisers’ promotions of their individual businesses.

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love the seasonal changes we experience in South Carolina. Each season has its own unique charm and characteristics. Lucky for us, we can appreciate them all right here in Lexington County, or we may want to travel a short distance to enjoy different scenery. You can read about a few places you may want to visit this fall, such as the Blue Ridge Mountains, in this issue.

Either way, fall has arrived, and I am here for it!

In this issue, Rainbow Warrior, Lauren Delk, shares her story of battling breast cancer while never losing her faith. Lauren, along with other cancer warriors, is thankful for the annual Rainbow Restoration Charity Golf Classic which continues to bless families in many ways. The spring event supports women right here in Lexington County by providing financial and emotional support not only for themselves, but also for their loved ones. If you’re a golfer or a giver, this is a great opportunity to serve a local organization.

Now…Are you ready for some FOOTBALL??? Regardless of which side you choose, it is GAME ON with this issue’s recap of the Cocks and Tigers’ ongoing rivalry! Pull out your favorite team jerseys, foam fingers, hats, and body paint, and prepare to rib your family and friends, lovingly of course. :) We hope you enjoy watching the games as much as we do while indulging in a variety of themed dishes and light-hearted banter between plays. I am personally hoping for a Gamecock winning season!

A little history of the rivalry that no one claimed as a victory came in the form of a natural disaster known as the 1000-Year Flood ten years ago this October. I will never forget witnessing friends’ homes flooded and businesses struggling to survive through the devastation, but I will also never forget the intentional solidarity of the young people in our community who voluntarily appeared onsite. These troopers not only cleaned up their own neighborhoods, but they, along with countless others, lended a hand to local businesses, coming together to pray, share supplies, and even assist in providing meals. It was moving to see such unfeigned servitude in Our Town.

Continuing with our series, we have another beautiful, heartfelt story that will tug your heartstrings, but also cast a blinding beam of hope. This is a son’s testimony as to the value of spending one’s last moments with family, as well as the necessity of the comfort and compassion that hospice care provides. We must keep in mind that hospice care is not only for those who are terminally ill, but also for those bearing the load of caregivers.

Finally, you don’t want to miss Our Town Magazine’s signature features in each issue: Events, Happy Tails/Service With a Smile/Giving Back (rotating), Chef ’s Selections, and Inspiration! Every Lexington County citizen needs to be aware of the many subtle, but progressive positive moments that are happening daily in our little cherished community. We enjoy the many requests, comments, and suggestions from readers and advertisers that we receive with each publication release! Thank you for being a part of Our Town Magazine. Blessings to you all this Fall!

As always, I hope to see you out and about Our Town!

2 September/October 2025

TABLE OF CONTENTS

22 Game On!

Garnet and Orange Traditions

6 1000 Year Flood

8 Trusting in Christ

14 The Greatest Lesson

18 Happy Tails

20 Leisure Travel

24 High School

Unity in Rebuilding

We are Zeus

My Journey

Mountains are Calling

How To Be Brave

Football Schedules

4 Local Events 26 Chef's Selections 28 Inspiration OurTownNow.com 3

EVENTS

Local Events: September/October Things to do in and around Our Town!

HIGHLIGHTED EVENT WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8—SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19 South Carolina State Fair State Fairgrounds 1200 Rosewood Dr., Columbia

The South Carolina State Fair is a wonderful event for children and adults looking for carnival rides, a variety of food, livestock petting, presentations, contests, art shows, and live entertainment. Want to know more about parking and discounts?

Visit SCStateFair.org and enjoy!

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6

Labor Day Parade and Festival Chapin Rd., Chapin, 9am-2pm Huddle up, boys and girls!

Labor Day is just around the corner and there are a host of events set for the whole weekend, leading up to the parade and festival on Monday! So, mark it down on the calendar, hydrate, and take the field!

Backyard Saturday— Archaeology in the Park Saluda Shoals Park 5605 Bush River Rd., Columbia, 10am-12pm Backyard Saturday is all about sparking curiosity, connecting with nature, and having fun together as a family. Events are designed for children up to age seven to explore nature through engaging activities, crafts, biofacts, and stories that bring the natural world to life.

ChapinSC.com

ICRC.net

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1

4 September/October 2025

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 Lexington Community Band Fall Rehearsal River Bluff High School 320 Corley Mill Rd., Lexington, 7:30pm-9:15pm Dust off your old instrument and rediscover the joy of playing in a community band!

It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned player or haven’t played in years, we’d love to have you as a member!

LexCommunityBand.org

Dining on the Dam 2025 Lake Murray Dam 1832 North Lake Dr., Lexington, 5pm-9pm Enjoy a catered dinner, live music, sensational spirits, and breathtaking sunset views of Lake Murray surrounded by friends and family.

LexingtonSC.org

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3

THURSDAY, SEPT 25

Montgomery Gentry Live Performance Harbison Theatre 7300 College St., Irmo, 7pm11pm Ready to experience Montgomery Gentry like never before with chart-topping hits like “Where I Come From”, “Something to Be Proud Of”, “Lucky Man” and more?

Montgomery Gentry is taking over Harbison Theatre at Midlands Technical College, and trust us, you don't want to miss it!

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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 Speechless ‘25 Tour with Steven Curtis Chapman Gateway Baptist Church 1651 Dutch Fork Rd., Irmo, 7pm-9pm Enter a world of endless possibilities with Christian artist, Steven Curtis Chapman, where every moment tells a story! Enjoy a crafted experience that goes beyond the ordinary, combining elements of surprise, delight, and pure entertainment. Reserve your spot today and be part of something truly special!

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A Night of Frights—Outdoor Horror Movie Night Saluda Shoals Park East 6071 St. Andrews Rd., Columbia, 7pm Ready for a thrilling evening under the stars with back-toback horror films in a unique outdoor setting? Watch from the comfort of your car or bring tailgating chairs for a classic drive-in experience.

Enjoy treats from food trucks and grab a drink at the on-site bar. This event is for ages 18+.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9 Jay Criscione & Family Golf Tournament of Hope Golden Hills Golf & Country Club 100 Scotland Dr., Lexington, 10am If you are a golf enthusiast or would like to get involved in a wonderful foundation, please consider participating in this annual event. Proceeds from this event not only educate the public, but allow South Carolinians to ease their financial burden while focusing on their health.

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24

Halloween At The Park Crooked Creek Park 1098 Old Lexington Hwy., Chapin, 6pm-8:30pm The Trick-or-Treat Trail will be open for all ages to enjoy the festivities starting at the front of the park's trails and ending on the soccer field with the carnival. Food trucks will be available 6:30–8:00 p.m. with a free hayride back to the park's entrance.

ICRC.net

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REBUILD

South Carolina's Thousand-Year Flood: A Decade of Reflection and Action

By Marilyn Thomas

W

hen faced with unfathomable adversity, the true character of a community is often revealed. This was proven true, ten years ago in October of 2015, when a momentous deluge swept through South Carolina, taking a number of lives and leaving behind billions of dollars of damage in its wake. Although devastating in so many ways, Lexington neighbors rose above this calamity as they united in their efforts to help one another, restore and repair, and prevent future flooding issues.

In the first week of October 2015, the state of South Carolina experienced record rainfall that resulted in historic flooding. According to documentation published by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration of the National Weather Service, a combination of “hydro-meteorological factors” contributed to the spawning of this perfect storm.

Specifically, when tropical moisture creat-

6 September/October 2025

ed by Hurricane Joaquin and the Atlantic Ocean met with slow-moving weather patterns, more than 20 inches of rain fell in the central and coastal regions of the state during a four-day period.

Because of its rarity and magnitude, the former governor, Nikki Haley, appropriately branded this tragic phenomenon as a “1,000-year flood.” On October 5, 2015, she requested an expedited major disaster declaration for South Carolina, which President Obama granted, and this action allowed affected residents to be eligible for federal financial assistance.

This unparalleled downpour proved to be both destructive and deadly— extensive power outages occurred, drinking water was compromised, roadways were washed out, dams were breached, homes were destroyed, and citizens were killed. In its aftermath, the South Carolina Emergency Management Department and other state authorities reported that the deluge caused 19 fatalities and nearly $1.5 billion in material damages throughout the state.

Furthermore, the U.S. Department of Interior Office of Emergency Management estimated that “410 roads and bridges, including 74 miles of I-95 between I-26 and I-20, were closed due to high water, flood inundation, or safety.”

During this catastrophic event, Hazel Livingston (Lexington’s current mayor) was actively involved in the town’s leadership as a council member. When the deluge occurred, she immediately became immersed in hands-on opportunities to serve the community. In addition to ensuring that her neighbors were located and safe, she helped with preparing meals for fellow staff members who were directly involved in local emergency efforts.

Because the church she attends is located in the Old Mill building, Mayor Livingston was personally aware of the devastation the flooding inflicted upon that structure and assisted with the cleanup efforts of that space as well as those of adjacent businesses.

“In the Town of Lexington,” she re-

calls, “the areas affected most were ponds along Twelve Mile Creek and Fourteen Mile Creek. Both the Gibson Pond dam and the Old Mill earthen dam were breached, causing the water to drain from both ponds.”

A report developed by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources states that “so much rain fell over the Twelve Mile Creek basin in Lexington County, the historic Lexington Mill Pond earthen dam failed, sweeping away much of the restored mill’s business property and taking out a portion of Highway 1.”

In the decade following that unforgettable calamity, “The Town has worked hard to restore these areas and bring them back to life,” says Mayor Livingston, “and to make them even better than they were before.”

Mayor Livingston shares two notable examples of how those water-torn areas were resurrected. “The Town worked with state and federal agencies to rebuild the Gibson Pond Park dam, and it was reopened to the public in August of 2021, after it was closed for more than a year during the construction to build a new dam,” she says. The renovated park within that area now “features a new bridge with fishing piers, a new dock, new picnic shelters, and a walking trail.”

Additionally, “Through a public/ private partnership, the Town designed and built the Old Mill Pond trail around the Lexington Mill Pond, which opened to the public in September of 2024,” says Mayor Livingston. “It is a 1.15-mile paved path that includes changes in elevation, bridges, outlooks, and seating areas that circle the pond. It provides an opportunity to enjoy nature in the heart of downtown Lexington, as well as panoramic views of the Old Mill.”

In the neighboring municipality of Irmo, the former town administrator, Courtney Dennis was employed by the local police department in 2015, but he says that he “vividly” remembers the floods.

“Fortunately, the Town of Irmo was spared any widespread or significant damage during the flood,” he adds. “However, we did experience localized flooding in areas such as New Friarsgate, particularly on Chapel White Road; Tamworth Court; Charing Cross Road; and South Royal Tower Drive. The primary cause of flooding in these areas was the inability of storm drains to keep pace with the

volume of rain. Some flooding also resulted from rising waters in Rawls Creek.”

“To my knowledge, only a few homes sustained damage,” Mr. Dennis continues, “and fortunately, repairs were made without requiring any demolitions. The majority of our efforts were focused on temporary road closures due to flooding. These closures were reopened once the rain slowed and the drainage system caught up.”

To be proactive in preparing for possible water-related issues in the future, Irmo’s town leadership has since initiated ongoing preemptive measures to thwart potential damage that could be incurred by such heavy-rain events. For example, “The Town has increased the frequency of storm drain cleanings to help with drainage capacity,” Mr. Dennis explains. “The town has also been working with Keep the Midlands Beautiful to organize annual creek cleanups, which remove obstructions and trash, allowing water to flow more effectively.”

Certainly, storms may come, and when they do, the power of nature must be respected. A resilient community, however, is another kind of force within which citizens can unite their strength and apply lessons learned to build back better than before for a safer future.

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OUR HOPE

A New Song

By Lauren Delk

W

e all love stories with a happy ending, don’t we?

We long to see wrongs made right, relationships work out, and sickness healed. If I would have written my story just a few short years ago, it would have included a breast cancer chapter with a happy ending. But today, my story continues as a 39-year-old wife and mother living with incurable stage IV metastatic breast cancer. My story is now one of choosing hope, peace, and joy regardless of how the chapter will end.

My cancer journey began a decade ago with an early stage breast cancer diagnosis when I was 29 years old. Adam and I were newly engaged, and our wedding date that was months away turned into me walking down the aisle just a few weeks after the phone call confirming “it's cancer.”

Most of our first year of marriage was spent in hospitals and waiting rooms. After chemotherapy, a mastectomy, and radiation, I could not have been more ready to see 2015 come to an end. Throughout the next few years, my hair

8 September/October 2025

grew back and I counted down the years until we would be able to try to start a family. The years were long as I watched my friends have children and many survivor friends begin to have recurrences. I desperately longed for one scenario and greatly feared the other. But with every year that passed, I became more and more hopeful that I had truly beat cancer.

In 2021, I found out that I was pregnant. I savored every moment of those nine months of carrying our child, constantly marveling at the goodness of God. We chose not to find out if we were having a boy or girl and it was the best surprise on March 19, 2022 when we welcomed our baby boy, Jackson. Our first year with him was filled with all of the wonder, joy, and laughter we had hoped for. The verse we chose for Jackson’s life was Psalm 40:3: He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him. Jackson’s life was a new song, and I couldn’t have written a more perfect ending if I tried. Nearly nine years had passed and we were fully embracing this sweet season of life raising our son while the memories of fighting cancer began to fade.

Then, one afternoon with our oneyear-old on my lap, cancer violently collided with the happy ending we thought we were living out as I reached up and felt a swollen lymph node in my neck. On November 14, 2023 I was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. This is cancer that began in the breast and moved to other parts of the body and is also referred to as MBC, late stage, or stage IV. There was another level of devastation that came with this diagnosis; this form of breast cancer is treatable, but not curable.

With my first diagnosis, there was a plan and a cure. This time, there was a plan, but no cure. The treatment plan for MBC has no end date; no timeline, no dates on the calendar to work towards, no last chemo, and no bells to ring. I will

be on treatment for the rest of my life, with the goal being to give me more time. How much time? When will this treatment stop working? How old will Jackson be? This remains one of the hardest things to wrestle with while living with MBC—the constant uncertainty, and knowing that the uncertainty does not center around “if ”, but “when."

Most of us operate with an assumption that our lives stretch out before us in decades. We lightheartedly make comments about the future because we assume that we will be present for all that will happen down the road. When our son graduates, when our daughter gets married, or when we retire are brought up commonly, even nonchalantly, in conversation. With a stage IV cancer diagnosis, all of those years you saw stretching out in front of you are still there, but you see them without yourself in them. You become acutely aware of a life for everyone you love without you in it. Casual conversations, an invitation to a retirement party, or news of a teenager getting his driver’s license can send you spiraling into thoughts of things that you will miss.

This makes many people uncomfortable, but it is my reality.

However, my reality is also that God promises to be with me every step of the way and He is faithful. He makes it possible for me to live in this constant tension, to sit in the uncertainty but not be consumed by fear. He provides for us now, and I trust that He will still provide in the years ahead.

Once I began my treatment drugs, there were months of waiting for scans to determine if the drugs were effective. One Thursday afternoon as I sat crying in the infusion center, my nurse approached me with a clipboard holding an application for the Rainbow Restoration Charity Golf Classic which benefits local mothers battling stage IV cancer. She told me that applications were due the following day, so I got busy writing my story.

I was ecstatic when I received the call from Heather Mattingly letting me know that I had been selected as a beneficiary.

It came at the perfect time on this journey when we were feeling so alone and lost in our grief. The impact that this community continues to have on our family is indescribable. Even before we knew the outcome of those first scans, the love that was shown to us set the tone for the remainder of that first year and into today, leading us to notice God’s presence and provision above all else.

Today, I am still on my first line of treatment, and I continue to have scans to monitor its effectiveness. Our hope before each scan is that we won’t see any progression, which means more time.

Although this new song looks nothing like we imagined, we trust that it does not have to have a happy ending to be beautiful. If we stay in today and continue trusting Christ, we will always have enough. When hope cannot be found in an outcome, a cure, or a happy ending, this becomes the gift worth cherishing—just one more day to be a wife, mom, daughter, sister, and friend.

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Vital Friendships

O

ne of the greatest benefits of moving into a senior living community—whether independent or assisted living—is the opportunity to form meaningful connections with peers. Friendships play a crucial role in emotional well-being, physical health, and overall happiness, making social engagement an essential part of the senior living experience. A Harvard study found that maintaining strong friendships in later life is as important as exercise and diet for longevity. Here are several amazing benefits of close friendships: Emotional Well-Being & Mental Health Loneliness and social isolation can have significant negative effects on mental health, leading to feelings of depression and anxiety. Friends help navigate life transitions, such as retirement, loss of loved ones, or health challenges, making aging a smoother process.

Increased Happiness: A study found that seniors with close friendships reported greater life satisfaction and happiness, regardless of physical health conditions (Journal of Aging and Health).

Physical Health Benefits Social connections have been linked to improved physical health in seniors. Friends often encourage each other to stay active, participate in group exercises, and maintain healthy habits, all of which contribute to longevity and overall well-being.

Stronger Immune System: Seniors with active social lives are less likely to get sick and recover faster from illnesses (Mayo Clinic).

Better Heart Health: Having strong friendships lowers the risk of high blood pressure by 20-30%, reducing the chance of heart disease and stroke (Harvard Medical School).

Reduced Risk of Depression: Socially active seniors are 40% less likely to experience depression (National Institute on Aging).

Social engagement stimulates memory and thinking skills, helping to slow cognitive aging by up to 25% (Journal of Gerontology).

Lower Stress Levels: Engaging with friends reduces stress-related inflammation, which is linked to various chronic illnesses (American Psychological Association).

Increased Mobility: Social engagement is linked to better physical function and mobility, helping seniors maintain independence longer (National Institute on Aging).

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Building friendships in senior living communities is not just a way to pass the time—it is a vital part of maintaining happiness, health, and a better quality of life. 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.

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FINDING SOLACE

Her Last Show of Strength

By Chris Hadley

M

y mom was a fiery, tiny, beautiful dark haired lady. She grew up in a small mill town in South Carolina without a father. Her father, who was a brilliant electrician, was also a raging alcoholic. Her parents divorced early, and she grew up with a single mom. This was the start of a terrible cycle, as she would suffer the same fate as her mother.

Mom met Dad while out on the town one night, across the mighty Savannah River in Augusta, Georgia. A young blond-haired man respectfully introduced himself; he

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was recently stationed at Ft. Gordon and preparing for deployment to Vietnam.

Boy did they hit it off! They were quickly married; I would make my entrance into this world within the next 9 months!

When Dad returned from Vietnam, Mom said he was never the same. He fell into a destructive cycle of alcohol abuse and violence. He left and returned several times before their divorce. My mom worked her tail off to try and provide a good education for me. In all the years after my dad left, she never remarried, or even dated another man. I was never sure if this was for my sake, or if she was truly heartbroken.

I left home after high school to come to the big city of Columbia, South Carolina. All these years later, I realized that it ain’t that big of a city. Eventually, I was married, and had two beautiful children. My mom, who became “Nana”, was on cloud nine. My children could not have had a more loving and caring grandmother!

The cancer diagnosis came, and it shook everything. Lung cancer, they said.

I sat there for a long time, holding onto the hand that had held mine through every scraped knee, every heartbreak, every moment of my life. She had been strong until the very end. And even in death, she left us with the greatest lesson of all—how to be brave.

I will never forget the care and love that the ladies from hospice care showed our family. Hospice workers are truly remarkable souls, carrying a quiet strength and compassion that most could never fathom. They step into the hardest moments of life—not to fix the unfixable, but to bring comfort, dignity, and peace when everything feels unbearable.

These components gently guide patients to find solace, love, acceptance, and support in their final moments, when nothing and no one else can comfort them.

If you know someone who is a hospice care worker, give them a hug. They deserve it!

Then it spread, stealing more of her than we were ready to lose. But she fought.

God, did she fight. Up until that Monday, when hospice was due to arrive, she was still herself. Cracking jokes, rolling her eyes at the fuss we made over her, pretending she wasn’t in pain even when we could see it in her eyes. She was brave, not for herself, but for us.

Sometimes you start to grieve whilst the person is still here — and ultimately you have to respect what the dying need, not what the left behind want. Hospice arrived that day, carrying with them a hospital bed, tubes, and the unspoken truth we were all too scared to say out loud. When they set the bed up in the living room, she looked at it, then at me, and shook her head. “I know what that bed means,” she said, her voice softer than I’d ever heard it. I wanted to lie, to tell her it was just for comfort, but we both knew better. She refused at first, sitting in her usual chair, hands folded like she could will away what was coming.

But her body, once so strong, was failing her. By nightfall, she was too weak to fight the inevitable. I held her hand as she lay down, the weight of the moment pressing against my chest.

The next couple of days blurred after that. The hum of voices, the quiet shuffling of feet, the sound of her breathing— shallow, slower each time I listened. Then came Thursday. The room was quiet. Too quiet. I reached for her hand, but it wasn’t warm like it should have been.

She was gone. Just like that.

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OurTownNow.com 17

We Are Zeus

“Reinventing the Shelter Dog”

By Mary Ann Hutcheson

E

laine Henderson, founder and CEO at We Are Zeus (WAZ) in Lexington, has been rescuing animals for twenty years, transforming her mission into a dedicated, full-fledged 5013c organization in April 2023. Her love of animals began on weekends when she volunteered with her mother at shelters, where she rescued her own shelter pet for the first time in 1995. Her parents took every stray to the vet, and her staunch military father was a softy when it came to dogs. He'd say, "Get it to the vet!"

Zeus, Elaine’s dog at that time, happened to be a pit bull, a hearty breed that unfortunately carries a negative stereotype. "More pit bulls seem to be in shelters because there are more pit bulls out there,” she says. “Everything looks like a pit bull now. The breed has been overbred, is first on the euthanasia list, and is the first dumped. That's what usually lands in our lap." Named after Elaine's beloved dog, We Are Zeus was initially launched in April 2015. "It's hard to believe it's been ten years," she says.

We Are Zeus is a 100% volunteer nonprofit that depends solely on public donations to accomplish its mission of reinventing the shelter dog. This work utilizes resources to rescue dogs from animal shelters, providing support and services necessary to rehabilitate and train dogs, which include fostering, vetting, and adoption into permanent homes.

Elaine and Vice President/Program Director, Tami Shaffer, have tirelessly devoted their time and love to making this happen. Both willingly volunteer their free time managing We Are Zeus, as well as working full-time jobs and juggling families. They cover transportation and other regularly occurring expenses out-of-pocket, but neither draws a salary.

Because it is a non-euthanized program, over 80% of dogs that are received by We Are Zeus have come from euthanasia lists. Another great benefit is that they accept strays and surrendered animals. If a dog has a reactivity issue (reacting to other dogs, people, or some other fear), the program raises money for a trainer to work with it, and the dog becomes adoptable again. Often, abuse or improper training significantly contributes to a

18 September/October 2025

dog being unwanted. "We do not discriminate," Henderson emphasizes. “We Are Zeus is open to all animals in need, regardless of breed or species. We've currently got a Weimaraner, a Coonhound, a Heeler, Labradors, Pit Bulls, Yorkies, cats… you name it," she says.

“Owner retention and shelter prevention” means if you can't afford your dog, We Are Zeus may provide food and help you with medical care for your pet. They help pet owners maintain ownership of their dog, which is a huge part of the overall mission; but it is costly. Running a nonprofit full-time is a dream, but it is not without challenges, and the financial strain can be significant. Currently, Elaine and Tammy rely on public donations and fundraising.

Sometimes, unexpected heroes appear to donate funds, or lend a helping hand. This initiative also desires to instill servitude within the next generation, such as Elaine’s son; he has caught the volunteer bug! He doesn't hesitate to approach people at the park and ask if their dog is microchipped.

If not, he proudly tells them his mom can do that. They now have four dogs and three cats, all rescues.

Rescuing animals and transforming them into happy, friendly and healthy pets is a tough and expensive job, but the rewards and satisfaction far outweigh the tasks.

Remember, you do not have to permanently adopt an animal to help, you could temporarily foster, perform administrative tasks, collect donations, share awareness with your community, or offer transportation, etc.

There are always loose ends, outstanding chores/tasks, or forgotten paperwork when it comes to taking care of furbabies.

We Are Zeus needs the public's support because they simply can't do it alone. However, the love and dedication they have for their mission keeps it going. "It's a 24-hour job, but it's not work to me. I know the outcome, and that's just so rewarding," Elaine says. Tami remarks, “Elaine's vision has endless potential, and we're saving animals.

So, if you're an animal lover, you're aware of what that unconditional love between a rescue and its human feels like. We want every dog to have that love and security in a permanent home and for as many humans as possible to experience the love of a rescue animal.”

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OurTownNow.com 19

TRAVEL

Head to the Mountains Orchards Await

By Guy Smith

S

eptember brings Labor Day, football, an occasional break in the sweltering central South Carolina weather, and loads of free community concerts and events. It also means that the mountains begin to call those that listen.

One of the joys of living in Lexington County is the ability to be at the beach or on a mountain within a matter of a few hours.

Either direction brings beauty and a welcome diversion, but September in the mountains means it is apple time! My wife

and I have, for years, planned a fall trip (or two) to the South Carolina upstate or the mountains of Western North Carolina.

We plan time to sightsee, dine, shop for antiques that we do not need, attend a play at Flat Rock Playhouse, and buy bags of delicious apples.

Every year we frantically check the orchard websites to find out when our favorite varieties are available, hope that we can find a good play during the same ripening window, buy tickets, make a

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hotel reservation, and head up I-26. On the way we have a low key competition to see who spots a mountain first (Little Mountain in Newberry County does not count). Occasionally, but only briefly, we take a ride on the Blue Ridge Parkway (my wife gets carsick even quicker than I do).

It is not a fancy or extravagant getaway, but it is what we do.

The play is always entertaining and interesting for all ages (support live theatre wherever you are). We always find something to buy at an antique shop, despite the fact that we are running out of space to put things. Last year in Hendersonville I found a pottery jug from Jugtown Pottery in Seabrook, North Carolina. I knew the value better than the seller for once and I got a real steal. I think I got it for about ten dollars less than its value.

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The apples, apple fritters, apple cider, and apple donuts are always delicious. I favor Evercrisp and Gala, but it’s all a matter of taste. One of my best buddies likes rock hard Arkansas Blacks. As with everything else in life, everyone has a right to be wrong.

So, as the temperature begins to drop, and you begin to think that there must be somewhere with a real fall season, load up the car and head to the hills. Make it a day, a weekend getaway, or a longer stay. Keep the agenda simple and take in the sights, tastes, and aromas.

If you drive far enough up, you can begin to see the leaves changing. If you like to hike or camp, you have hundreds of options. If you want to get as high as you can east of the Rockies, head to Mt. Mitchell. If you take a child, or better yet a grandchild, you can pick your own apples.

Whatever you do, make it a point to slow down. The mountains aren’t going anywhere. They have been there for eternity. If you miss something, you can head back next fall.

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FRIENDLY RIVALRY

Wait Until Next Year!

By Tommy Gee

A

spiring students in South Carolina are blessed with choices from the best of both worlds—the University of South Carolina in Columbia offers an abundance of courses related to business, journalism, and public health programs, while Clemson University located in Pickens County, near Greenville, is known for its focus on agriculture, engineering, and business programs.

The fun-loving camaraderie and competitive spirit between the University of South Carolina and Clemson University has stood the test of time, with the annual Gamecock-Tiger football game being a huge aspect of focus across the state each season.

HISTORY IN THE MAKING: In a state with history dating back to the original 13 colonies and folklore to match, South Carolinians have claimed everything from Lizard Man in Lee County to Gray Man at Pawleys

Island. However, only two of these creatures reign supreme.

Those creatures would be none other than the fighting Gamecocks of the University of South Carolina and the mighty Tigers of Clemson University.

Although there are 88 years between the establishment of the schools, it was only a matter of time before a rather healthy rivalry was born, including legends, mascots, and traditions. It was a cool Thursday morning on November 12, 1896, when these two titans first met on the gridiron and kicked off the State Fair.

The game was an instant classic with the Gamecocks claiming the first victory, 12 to 6. This solidified Big Thursday for future games dates until 1902. (Just for reference, USC was founded in 1801. California didn’t become a state until 1850. Can I just say “Will the real USC please stand up! Please stand up!”)?

USC GAMECOCK

CLEMSON

DATE

OPPONENT

SITE

DATE

OPPONENT

SITE

09/06 09/13 09/20 09/27 10/11 10/18 10/25 11/01 11/15 11/22 11/29

SC State Vanderbilt Missouri Kentucky LSU Oklahoma Alabama Ole Miss Texas A & M Coastal Carolina Clemson

Home Home Away Home Away Home Home Away Away Home Home

09/06 09/13 09/20 10/04 10/11 10/18 11/01 11/08 11/14 11/22 11/29

Troy GA Tech Syracuse NC Tar Heels Boston College SMU Duke Florida State Louisville Furman South Carolina

Home Away Home Away Away Home Home Home Away Away Away

22 September/October 2025

Game Times TBD

Game Times TBD

Now, everyone knows that a classic cannot exist without tragedy, and that tragedy struck after a game in 1902: an image of a victorious crowing Gamecock standing over a defeated Tiger began to circulate. One could say it was the original meme declaring, Wait until next year! This single item prompted armed players and fans of Clemson to march onto the campus of South Carolina, only to be met with armed players and fans alike. This led to a well-deserved suspension of play between the two schools spanning from 1903-1909. After moving the games to Saturdays at alternating schools, they began looking for growth and both universities became founding members of the ACC from 1953.

However in 1971 USC desired more flexibility and became independent until 1991 when they became members of the SEC, officially placing the instate rivals in separate conferences.

Although this change is significant to their regular schedules, and gratefully we have mellowed over the years, it did nothing to diminish the competition between the two teams who continue to seek victory on the field.

To say it plainly…It’s not just the two major universities in the state running the plays and making the touchdowns; it’s not just the rivalry of the mighty Tigers and the fighting Gamecocks, no sir! It’s a distinct rooster’s crow or a tiger’s roar, and equally shared anticipation on both sides for everything the other represents. It’s the bragging rights you score and a year of pride until you meet again on the battlefield. So, until the next whistle blows, whether it’s a rally in the valley or a sandstorm at Willie B’s, I’ll just say go team go and keep my fandom to myself !

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OurTownNow.com 23

GAME ON

CHAPIN HS DATE

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SITE

09/05 09/12 09/19 09/26 10/03 10/10 10/17 10/24 10/31

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09/05 09/12 09/19 09/26 10/03 10/10 10/17 10/24 10/31

Ridge View Gray Collegiate Oceanside Collegiate Open Chapin White Knoll Lexington River Bluff Irmo

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CHEF'S SELECTIONS

Fall into Flavor with these Slow Cooker Recipes From savory dips to aromatic stews, these effortless recipes bring the flavors of the season straight to your table. Cozy up and let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the best of autumn.

Slow Cooker Kale Artichoke Dip

Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes

INGREDIENTS: 10 oz. WP Rawl Farms® Kale 13 oz. can quartered artichoke hearts, chopped and drained 8 oz. package cream cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes 1 c. sour cream 1 c. shredded Mozzarella cheese 1/2 c. grated Parmesan cheese 1/3 c. finely-chopped or grated white or red onion 4 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 tsp. black pepper 1/4 tsp. fine sea salt

INGREDIENTS: 1 1/2-2 lb. fresh green beans 1 1/2 lb. small potatoes 1 large onion, diced 1 lb. smoked sausage 1/2 c. (1 stick) butter 1 tbsp. Cajun/Creole seasoning 1/2 tsp. pepper

INSTRUCTIONS: Combine all the ingredients in the bowl of a slow cooker and lightly stir to combine. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Stir, taste, and add more seasoning if preferred. Serve warm with pita chips, crostini, veggies, or whatever dippers you prefer.

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26 September/October 2025

INSTRUCTIONS: Cut potatoes in half and add to a large crockpot. Sprinkle pepper and half of the seasoning evenly over potatoes. Top with the stick of butter. Cut green beans into 2-3" pieces and add green beans and onion to the crockpot. Sprinkle with remaining seasoning. Slice sausage and add to crockpot. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 hours, stirring gently once each hour. Add additional seasoning if desired. Serve immediately or set crockpot to warm until ready to serve.

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Slow Cooker Mustard Maple Chicken INGREDIENTS: 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs 2 tbsp. pure maple syrup 1/3 c. Dijon mustard 1 tsp. dried basil 1 tsp. paprika 1/2 tsp. sea salt 1/2 tsp. black pepper 8 c. green beans, washed and trimmed 1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil Additional sea salt and black pepper, to taste INSTRUCTIONS: Place chicken thighs in a slow cooker. Add maple syrup, Dijon mustard, basil, paprika, sea salt, and pepper. Toss to coat well.

Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4 hours, until tender and cooked through. Pair it with green beans for a full meal; cook the green beans just before serving. Place green beans in a pot of boiling water. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender. Drain and toss with olive oil, sea salt, and pepper. Divide green beans between plates and top with maple mustard chicken. Serve and enjoy this family favorite!!

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INSPIRATION

A Visit to the Store

By Scott Vaughan

M

y maternal grandfather, a salesman by trade, died in April 1967—a few months before my eighth birthday. Except through the stories of others, I don’t remember him well.

Yet, one Sunday afternoon with him still impacts my life today.

In 1967, none of the stores in our small Georgia town were open on Sundays, so it was mildly scandalous when a new superette chose to open its doors after church services. Living on the wild side, my grandfather took me to visit this notorious grocery store on a Sunday afternoon.

Inside the store, my Papa Paul requested a small No. 2 bag, generally reserved for nails and screws. He told me to fill it with as much candy as possible, and he would buy it for me. Walking out of the store, I noticed a little girl sitting alone. Her look and demeanor suggested she was very poor.

My Papa Paul invited her into the store and gave her a No. 2 bag to fill with candy. I will never forget the smile on her face. As he paid for the candy and sent her on her way, the woman behind the counter whispered this word: “Trash”. The woman then bobbed her head in the direction of the shacks that were behind the store property. My grandfather ignored her, but I could tell he was upset.

Back at my house, I shared my candy with Papa Paul as we sat in his car. “What did that woman mean by saying, trash?” I asked him.

“She meant that little girl and her family had no worth—just like trash,” he said. “But that’s not true. The Lord loves that little girl and her family no less than He loves you and me.” He adjusted his black tie as he took my hand and squeezed it.

My Papa Paul didn’t have much money, and I knew he had used all his money to buy candy for me and the little girl. I noticed his empty wallet. I said, “Papa Paul, you used all your money to buy that little girl’s candy.”

That’s when he said the words that still bring tears to my eyes today. “Scott, it’s all God’s money to love and serve other people.”

28 September/October 2025

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