Our Town - October 2023

October/November 2023

WEALTH PLANNING with Gregory Bingel

By Beth McLean, MPH

November is National Family Caregivers Month. The role of “caregiver” is multi-dimensional yet will likely affect nearly all of us at one point or another throughout our lives. Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter described, “There are only four kinds of people in the world - those who have been caregivers, those who are caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers.”

How do you define “caregiver”?

1. Is the role voluntary or required?

2. What qualifications are required?

3. How long does the role last?

4. When does the role begin?

5. Is there a “how-to” guide of best practices?

The answers to these questions vary based on who you ask and can be influenced by culture, language, and the resources available (emotional, financial, healthcare). They can even vary among family members. During this season of fall festivities and Thanksgiving, I challenge us all to consider what caregiving means to us as well as to foster conversations among our families and friends to discuss how caregivers have influenced our lives and how we hope to influence the lives of others, both as caregivers and in support of caregivers.

Publisher

Tracy Tuten

Editors

Kristi Antley

Paige Youmans

Design and Production

Kristina Parella

Contributing Writers

Kristi Antley

Virginia Gates

Celeste Simmons

Marilyn Thomas

Dan Williams

Sharon Wolford

Photographers

Jessica Meetze

Sales

Tracy Tuten

Tracy@OurTownNow.com

803-603-8187

Our Town Magazine (Vol. 1. Ed.2.) 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

This time of year has always been one of my favorites. The cooler temperatures, the fall colors, and of course it leads right into the holiday season. My daughter, McKayla, has always loved Halloween. She would say when the weather started to get cooler, “It feels like Halloween.” I guess as a small child, that is what she related it to. Now that she’s an adult she still loves Halloween, but I miss getting to dress her and her brother, Zane, and take them trick-or-treating. My husband and I used to take them around to grandparents and great-grandparents, but also to assisted living facilities in the area. The elderly always loved seeing them come through the door and the visits made everyone involved happy.

November brings Thanksgiving with lots of family visits and good food. My Mama, Nanny, aunts and extended family are undoubtedly some of the best cooks I have ever known. On the other hand, my Grandma would say, “I may not be a good cook, but I can make a pretty table!” I would always giggle at her. When it came to her table, she took her time and made it a masterpiece with her silver and Chinaware that only came out for special occasions. She had other gifts in the kitchen as well that she tended to overlook; she could make preserves and relishes from scratch and they always turned out amazing. Her sweet potato souffle is still one of the best I’ve ever had. I think I am a mix of the women in my family. I basically can “get by” on both fronts, but I’m a master of neither.

I hope this October and November you take the time to appreciate the cooler temperatures, admire the fall colors, share some fun time with family and friends, and of course, enjoy this edition of Our Town Magazine!

Tracy Tuten, Publisher

Local Events: October - November

Things to do in and around Our Town!

HIGHLIGHTED EVENT

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11-SUNDAY, OCTOBER 22

South Carolina State Fair

South Carolina State Fairgrounds, 1200 Rosewood Dr., Columbia, various times

Plan to meet your friends and family at the rocket! For close to 150 years, the SC State Fair has enticed attendees with a multitude of sights and sounds. Don’t miss the rides, food, exhibits, and check out the line-up of shows, concerts, and performances.

Visit SCStateFair.org for ticketing and schedule details.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 1TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31

Undercover Buddies Program (formerly Socktober)

Mission Lexington, 216 Harmon St., Lexington, various times

As you prepare for the holidays, consider participating in Mission Lexington’s month of shelfstocking specifically geared to supply socks and underwear to those in need.

Visit MissionLexingtonSC.org for details and drop-off times.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER

1-TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31

Deceased Farm Haunted Attraction

Deceased Farm, 382 Olde Farm Rd, Lexington, various times Love a good fright? Think you can’t be easily scared? The folks at Deceased Farm are up for the challenge and invite you to visit this year’s version of the haunted farm. Doors are open every Friday and Saturday until October 28th, every Sunday until October 29th, also open on Monday, October 16th and Thursday, October 19th, and don’t forget: HALLOWEEN NIGHT! This event is not recommended for children under 12.

Ticket information and details can be found at DeceasedFarm.com.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7

Fall Festival Event

Hidden Creek Stables, 1122 Rawl Rd., Lexington, 11am-4pm

Visit a family-owned farm offering harvest and seasonal fun including hayrides, facepainting, animal encounters, food trucks, and inflatables.

For a schedule of activities and ticket information go to HiddenCreekStable. wixsite.com.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13

Chamber Crawl Concert Event

Hazelwood Brewing Company, 711 E Main St., Lexington, 7pm The South Carolina

Philharmonic invites you to enjoy their beautiful music in a delightful downtown environment. Doors open at 6pm, the concert begins at 7pm. Reservations are recommended due to the event’s popularity and

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 22-

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 24

Tent Revival

FRIDAY, OCTOBER

20-MONDAY, OCTOBER 30

Boo at the Zoo Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, 500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia, 6pm–9pm It’s time to visit the animals and lights at the zoo, especially since you get to don your Halloween costume, participate in spook-tacular activities, and taste some sugary treats!

Purchase tickets at Riverbanks.org.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 21 & SUNDAY, OCTOBER 22

The Thorn Live Concert Koger Center for the Arts, 1501 Greene St., Columbia, various times

Bring the whole family out to enjoy an artistic and engaging live show depicting the life of Jesus Christ through dramatic musical and aerobatic performances.

Check out the trailer and purchase tickets at TheThorn.com.

7068 Nursery Rd., Columbia, 6:30pm Have you ever been to a Revival? Come see what it is all about! Three nights of truth and worship with special music each night. Coffee and refreshments provided. Childcare is available for attending families.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4

Jam Room Music Festival

1400 Block, Main St., Columbia, 12pm-10pm

Enjoy live music at the intersection of Main and Hampton Streets in Downtown Columbia. This annual free event features local and regional bands, with food available for purchase. Visit JamRoomMusicFestival. com to browse scheduled performances.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26

Light Up the Night Fall Festival Event

Lexington Baptist Church, 308 E. Main St., Lexington, 6pm-9pm

LBC invites the community to enjoy this free event with inflatables, rides, games, and trunk-or-treat. Children are welcome to wear costumes; food will be available for purchase.

For a complete listing of activities, visit LexingtonBaptist.org.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27

Tokyo Joe’s 3rd Annual Breast Cancer Research Fundraiser

Icehouse Amphitheater, 107 West Main St., Lexington, 6:30pm

This annual event benefits The Breast Cancer Research Foundation and will feature performances from The Root Doctors, Prettier Than Matt, and Tokyo Joe.

Tickets may be purchased at IcehouseAmphitheater.com.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4 & SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5

Midlands Christmas Arts & Crafts Market

South Carolina State Farmers Market, 3483 Charleston Hwy, West Columbia, various times

This free annual event brings together over 150 artisans and crafters from around the Midlands to showcase their creations for purchase. A silent auction and raffle will be held to benefit Harvest Hope Food Bank.

For a list of vendors and details visit midlandcrafters. wixsite.com.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16

The Heritage Holiday Market

The Heritage at Lowman, 2101 Dutch Fork Rd., Chapin, 10am-5pm

Get a head start on your holiday shopping and enjoy pop up entertainment, food trucks, and photos with Santa. For more information, call 803-732-8800.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17 & SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18

Trucks Gone Wild Event Twitty's Mud Bog, 4396 Bufords Bridge Hwy, Ulmer, various times

Pack a chair and a towel and head to Twitty’s for a jam-packed event of mudding and racing. The sights and sounds will rev up your interest in the power and mobility of the vehicles in the show. Find details at TwittysMudbog.com.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 19

Governor’s Carol Lighting South Carolina State House, 1100 Gervais St., Columbia, 6pm Invite your family and friends to join Governor Henry McMaster and the First Family as they mark the start of the holiday season by lighting the state Christmas tree.

For all things gubernatorial, visit Governor.SC.gov.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23

19th Annual Turkey Day 5K Colonial Life Arena, 801 Lincoln St., Columbia, 9am

Want a way to celebrate Thanksgiving by giving back to your community? Participate virtually or on-site to raise funds for the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Midlands. Register at strictlyrunning.com.

Fall Fun for Children with Special Needs

By Kristi Antley

Autumn is an exciting season for most children— searching for the perfect pumpkin, playing with mountains of leaves, attending fall festivals, creating cute crafts, roasting marshmallows, and masquerading as their favorite character. However, families with children who have special needs, sensory difficulties, severe allergies, or other limitations often find that fall events are more challenging than celebratory. Here at Our Town Magazine, we recognize these challenges and seek to provide awareness of the difficulties these families (and ours) may face and encourage a welcoming and inclusive response from the community. It only takes a little more attention and time to provide children with special needs a sense of normalcy. For this reason, we have assembled a guide of safety and inclusivity recommendations for both families and the community.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PARENTS

Be protectively proactive. Consider your child’s unique sensitivities. Setting sensible boundaries, having a solid plan before an event, and emotionally preparing the child at home to help promote success.

Allow the child's interests to be your guide. Limit your demands and go with the flow. Showing excitement about your child’s costume, carved pumpkin, or handmade craft will make the experience more enjoyable for a child.

Don’t be afraid to get creative. Find simple ways to adjust and adapt the costume so that your child feels safe and proud to wear it. If your child uses a mobility device, try to find a way to incorporate it into the activity or costume.

Minimize any obvious risks. Avoid costume items that could limit a child's mobility, pose a fire hazard, or obstruct their vision.

Make sure your child can be seen Make your child as comfortable as possible while being visible to automobiles and other trick-or-treaters by using a flashlight, wearing a glow stick, or incorporating reflective tape on their costume.

Create a trick-or-treat sign. If your child struggles with speech, make cards or have a sticker that your child can point to quickly to help relay the proverbial “trick-or-treat” message. Attach your contact information to your child. Consider having your contact information on a bracelet, belt, or attached to the back of his/her shirt or costume, especially for children who may be non-vocal or non-responsive to others when they get upset or become anxious.

Go on a test run. To prepare your child for a new experience or environment, practice trick-or-treating at a friend’s house or set up a pretend scenario at home. Consider visiting the host facility before attending a festival or event.

Use the buddy system. Of course, younger children should have an accompanying adult when out in the community. However, if your child with special needs is old enough to participate in activities independently, consider partnering them with a responsible older sibling or friend.

Take advantage of community-based activities. The Lexington County Public Library system has multiple opportunities available in their different branches such as their free evening of spooky stories at the Icehouse Amphitheater on October 28. Also, multiple Lexington churches are offering fall festivals or trunk-or-treat events.

IDEAS FOR THE PUBLIC

Distribute candy from the end of your driveway. Hand ing out treats from your mailbox will immediately feel more inviting and accessible and will help those trick-or-treaters with mobility issues.

Light up your yard. Bright lighting can illuminate any obstacles and reduce potential accidents.

Label candy and offer non-edible treats. Ensure that any treat you offer has ingredients on the label to protect children with food sensitivities. Or consider offering an inexpensive alternative to edible treats, such as stickers, bubbles, or glow sticks.

Have patience. It can be difficult for children with special needs to accurately grasp a piece of candy, especially with other trick-or-treaters in the mix. Provide gentle encouragement and avoid rushing anyone through their candy selection.

Be mindful of spooky decorations. Because some children have heightened sensitivities to loud noises, bright lights, or unexpected sounds, consider temporarily adapting decorations to reduce the initial startle factor for children.

Try not to judge. If a child comes to your door without a costume or appears to be too old to participate, do not immediately jump to negative conclusions. It could be that they are not able to wear certain types of clothing without being uncomfortable or that they are simply older children who are mentally immature. That doesn't mean they should miss out on good, clean fun!

Virginia's Story A Tale of Unexpected Thankfulness

By Virginia Gates

“It will be the best-worst thing that will ever happen to you.” Those were the words spoken by Amy Fitzsimmons-Kinard and Mandy Bowden of the “The Ta-Tini’s”. The Ta-Tini’s are a local group of young breast cancer survivors who I called when I was diagnosed. It sounded exactly like a famous phrase from the opening paragraph of Charles Dickens’ novel, A Tale of Two Cities. “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity…”

While we aren’t discussing the French Revolution as in Dickens’ novel, hearing the words, “You have cancer” is the beginning of a revolution that instills radical changes in anyone who goes through this type of medical diagnosis. It was Mother’s Day; I was hosting my family for lunch. After getting everything prepared, I quickly hopped in the shower to get ready and did my routine monthly self-exam. I felt a pang of dread as I felt an unfamiliar

lump. I knew in that moment. I felt it in my soul. It’s just like other moments in your life when you can’t exactly explain something, but you just know. I promptly made an appointment for a mammogram the next day. (I was under 40 and had not had an official, initial mammogram yet by

today’s medical insurance standards.) After the suspicious area showed up on the mammogram, a biopsy confirmed what I knew. I was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, the most common type of breast cancer.

It felt like a bomb had just exploded in my life, and I was looking at the aftermath and figuring out how I was going to navigate through this. At the same time the world was going through the COVID-19 pandemic, I was learning how to teach my kids since schools were closed, I was running an “essential” business with my spouse, and they had just called in hospice for my grandmother. My plate was full, but I was determined that all of this was just a temporary thing, and I asked God to show me what I was to learn and to also help other people through this life lesson.

Next was meeting with the oncologist to go over the type and stage of breast cancer that I had, and what the best treatment options were based on my diagnosis. I’ll be honest, the first center I went to was cold; I felt like I was just a number in a herd of people who were going through

such a life-changing event. I worked in healthcare myself for many years, and I was so disappointed in this approach to care, as I felt like no one cared at all. After more tests were performed, it felt like no one really took the time to look closely at my case. When they informed me of my treatment plan, I knew that this center would not be where I would receive treatment. It was also that gut feeling that something was just not quite right. I wanted to get another opinion.

I called a friend, who was a previous patient of mine and a nurse practitioner at another local oncologist’s office. She ran an additional test which determined my risk of recurrence on the type of breast cancer I had, and ultimately, changed my entire treatment plan--one test y’all. This facility was also completely different. The environment was a lot more welcoming, and people did take the time to listen and walk you through all of the many things that are involved with a cancer diagnosis.

In the same week, I lost my grandmother. She was the matriarch of my family and the woman I was named after. She was a big part of my life, and I was naturally devastated. The last thing I wanted to tell her as I was saying goodbye was that I was being diagnosed. However, I knew she would have wanted to know. I gave her eulogy at the funeral--it was the greatest honor, to speak about the life of someone I held so close to my heart. As I clutched my Kleenex and a tube of lipstick that she always wore, the words describing her life flowed off of the paper like the song of a bird. As I stood at the podium and my heels sunk into the grass

beside where her gravestone would be, I knew she was with me. I smiled as I could hear her say, “Make sure you put some lipstick on.”

Two days after her funeral, it was time for everything to get started. My treatment plan consisted of having a bilateral mastectomy followed by radiation and complete reconstructive surgery. In the world of breast cancer, I certainly drew the “prettiest straw”; this course of treatment seemed minor compared to what I knew a lot of women had had to tolerate. The additional test, called an onco-type test, was one in which my score was low which indicated chemotherapy was not a benefit for my type of breast cancer. This meant that I would get to keep my hair! I know it seems silly, but I was worried

more about losing my hair rather than my breasts while going through all of this. It helped me handle things a lot better, including explaining things to my children. If I didn’t “look” like I was going through anything to them, it would help ease their minds. Their world was shaken enough by not being able to attend school or sports events and trying to understand what a pandemic really was.

However, while things looked “normal” from a physical standpoint, it is what cancer does to your psyche that really changes things. Just like anyone who goes through any life-changing event, the mental scars are always deeper than any physical scar could ever be. I ended up going to therapy to discuss these things, as there is so much PTSD involved with

a diagnosis. While I believed that I was strong mentally, physically, and spiritually, I still felt lost in an unchartered sea that I never knew a lot about until I dove in headfirst all by myself. In addition, there is nothing that can prepare you for what you will encounter waking up from surgery and looking in the mirror for the first time. Missing a part of you that once was and knowing that you will never be the same person on every level. You cry, you scream, and you are so mad that cancer decided to come in, snatch up your life, and take you on a rollercoaster ride that you never wanted to go on. But still all the while, you have to remain strong. People are rooting for you.

After healing from surgery, radiation was the next step. During this time, our family decided to start hiking the Appalachian Trail on the weekends, which was one activity you could still do during COVID. It was the best thing to have something great for our family to be able to focus on. During each hike, just as going through cancer, you just have to remember to put one foot in front of the other and keep going. Mile after mile, I remember being so thankful that I felt good enough to be able to do this, and what God was trying to teach me while I took in the beauty all around me.

Radiation was daily for 6 weeks, and really, one of the easiest parts of the process. Most of the time it would take me longer to find a parking spot at the hospital than the amount of time that the treatment itself took. Each morning I would lie on the table as the high-energy x-ray radiation beam would go across my body. Since my left breast was the one affected (and right by your heart), you had to hold your breath as the beam came across. Holding your breath separated the chest wall from the heart so that the radiation received by your heart was minimized. Thank goodness they played music in the room. It would help pass the time as the treatment was being performed. I’ll never forget the first and last songs I heard while being there. Appropriately, the first song was “Beat It” by Michael Jackson, and the last song was “Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes” by Jimmy Buffett.

And then, to go through reconstruction…is to trust a team of surgeons to rebuild everything back to the best of what is possible. I was so fortunate; I had the best general and plastic

surgeons for my case and couldn’t be happier with the final result. My final surgery was three weeks before Thanksgiving, and I remember telling the plastic surgeon, “Listen, I host my family for Thanksgiving every year, so I have to be ready to get my house together before then.” He laughed of course, but the endless things that southern women take care of and prepare for during the holidays can’t be messed with, cancer or not. I was determined to be ready to go into the holidays with all of this behind me.

It was such a fitting time of year to wrap up my treatment, right at Thanksgiving. Going through cancer has taught me so many things about life. It shows you the people who care about you, but also the ones that really don’t. I could not have gotten through this without the love and support of my friends, family, and my spouse. I’m blessed to have so many people who were there to lift me up in so many ways. It teaches you to go with your gut--EVERY SINGLE TIME. There’s science behind it, but that’s enough for another article altogether. It teaches you that early detection truly is the key. Most women I know never do their self-exams. I get it, it's another thing to have to remember and do, but if taking a few minutes each month could potentially save your life, it is certainly worth the time spent.

Cancer also teaches you to quit obsessing over, worrying about, or making a big deal of the things that really aren’t important. One of my favorite things to say now is, “If it’s not life or death, everything else can be figured out, and will be ok.” It teaches you how strong the will to live truly is. I would not be defeated. Despite a diagnosis and a pandemic going on, I still had a business to run with my spouse and a family to raise. This was absolutely not going to crush my spirit, nor did I have the time for it. Plus, I’m just way too stubborn.

I thought about what my grandmother would always say, “This too shall pass”, as I felt her with me in spirit throughout this entire journey. It teaches you to look at life through a completely different lens. You are understanding and empathetic in a way that you weren’t before. You appreciate EVERY SINGLE DAY and do things that will squeeze the most out of it. You take time for the simple things. You make time for the important things. And while you would never wish anyone to have to go through it personally, you hope that hearing stories like this will inspire others to live life just a little bit differently.

The Ta-Tini’s and Charles Dickens did have it right all along. In the final paragraph of The Tale of Two Cities, the main character says, “It is a far, far better thing that I do, than I have ever done; it is a far, far better rest that I go to than I have ever known.” This means that even while facing death you have been deeply moved with great purpose. And yes, looking back now, it has truly been “the best-worst thing” that has shaped my life in so many ways.

WealthPlan Strategic Financial Freedom

By Celeste Simmons

Money. It is a terrible master, but an excellent servant as it can improve the lives of both you and your loved ones. Many Americans live paycheck to paycheck; this is typically due to an obvious gap between what the numbers claim they can afford and what is actually spent at the end of the day. Marriage, divorce, employment changes, and other unforeseen life changes are often dramatic and sudden transitions. An overwhelming amount of time, research, patience, and attention is required to successfully navigate each of these challenging scenarios. While some changes are predictable and manageable with minor adjustments, eventually almost everyone will be faced with tough decisions that require professional financial guidance, skill, and resources. Yes, things change, and that is to be expected, but that is where having a financial plan can be beneficial.

Daily money choices can add up and translate to long-term wealth if you diligently work toward a goal and utilize strategic planning. Before lives can financially improve one must take the first step which is to create a plan according to Gregory Bingel, the newest Financial Advisor with

Wealth Plan Financial Group and Cambridge Investment Research, Inc. Backed with 15 years of experience, a BSBA from the University of South Carolina, a MBA from The Citadel, a CFP®, (Certified Financial Planner), and a ChFC® (Chartered Financial Consultant), Bingel refuses

to let clients go astray from the plan they built together.

Financial planning establishes parameters for income, expenses, and savings, and an advisor, like Bingel, can help plan, track, and forecast specific financial needs. Planning ensures that budgeted monthly

expenses are not invested with the same aggressiveness in the same “bucket” as college planning funds, for example, because each bucket has a different timeline. Yes, investing is for the long-term, 15, 20, 30, years down the road, but wealth management is about diversification. Different buckets are for different goals--different liquids (holdings) in different buckets. Thus, diversification.

A financial advisor looks to utilize a master plan to oversee all aspects of their client's financial life, and doing so requires personalized service and attention to detail, which can be rare in our current culture. Bingel, however, takes the time to get to know each one of his clients individually so that he can understand, grasp, and focus on the items that are most important to them. One such example started in 2017 when Bingel initiated a future wedding fund for one of his clients' children by starting off with small monthly purchases. Even though a few shares were all his client could afford each month, Bingel had a solid strategy--when the price was down, he advised his client to purchase more shares than usual. Eventually the client's income increased, and they could afford to invest more money each month. Over time that one little wedding fund began to increase due to the time value of money, which can be seen on any mutual fund fact card, and the client's children are still very young. This leaves the portfolio with plenty of time to grow. As you can see, it all started with a goal, discipline, and a financial plan.

Not only does a financial plan require a goal and discipline, but also a trust worthy, preferably local, financial partner like Bingel who has deep roots in South Carolina and is proud to call Lexington his “hometown”. Both he and his wife were ad opted from foreign countries (Gregory is from India, Marina is from Russia) at young ages and met through divine intervention along with the help of mutual friends. The Bingels are grateful for the opportu nities that they have been able to take advantage of here in the states and enjoy giving back to the community as much as

possible. Bingel believes in supporting the community and is a member of the Rotary Club of Lexington and serves on the Finance Committee at his church, Our Lady of the Hills Catholic Church. The couple and their children, Callie and Mya, enjoy visiting with friends and meeting new people and clients at local ballgames, school functions, restaurants, and community charity events. This journey has given Gregory a unique and brilliant perspective on life that has continually contributed to his success as a son, husband, father, and financial advisor.

“I wish I had started earlier” is a sentiment that Bingel often hears. “It takes as much energy to wish as it does to plan,” Eleanor Roosevelt once said. No one wants to think about dying but it is ultimately inevitable. Have you planned for it? What about retirement? Everyone hopes to retire someday, but even for those with significant wealth, a secure financial future simply does not automatically happen. Instead, it must be carefully crafted to meet your financial goals and leave nothing to chance. That is where the financial advisor can assist their clients--to ensure those other seemingly insignificant, but important things, are covered.

S. Bingel

Lighthouse for Life: A Beacon of Hope for the Vulnerable

By Marilyn Thomas

According to the Department of Homeland Security human trafficking “can happen in any community, and victims can be any age, race, gender, or nationality.” Organizations like the local Lighthouse for Life exist to combat this heinous activity by spreading awareness to the public and providing assistance to victims. Many people choose to ignore these ugly parts of our culture, are afraid to get involved, or will not take the time to try to understand how they can help.

Take a normal high school student for instance; a young girl who is doing great in school, has a stable home life, and lives in an affluent neighborhood. While at a party with friends, she becomes intoxicated or incoherent from illegal substances. The next day, sex traffickers, who were also at the party, contact and blackmail the girl with photos of her activities from the night before. Fearful of the repercussions, she complies with their demands. Before she is rescued, she is violently assaulted and trafficked for several months, all while she continues to live at home and attend school every day.

Another girl, age 14, does not always see eye-to-eye with her mom; she confides

in an older female friend who seems to truly care. After building a relationship of trust, the girl is invited to meet with a “friend” at a hotel. Before she realizes what is happening, her phone is taken and she is trafficked in two local counties.

Although these scenarios may sound like something that would happen somewhere else, these are events that have occurred within our local community. “It started to take on a whole new passion for me, the more I learned how huge and prevalent it is all around us, and most of us have no idea about it,” says Lisa Kejr, CEO of Lighthouse for Life, a biblical, faith-based nonprofit organization whose mission is to “eradicate human trafficking by educating the community and empowering survivors.”

The facts she shares are alarming: “SLED [South Carolina Law Enforcement Division] identified over 400 cases of sex trafficking last year in the state of South Carolina; of those, 399 involved

minors. Human trafficking is outgrowing the drug market. Since COVID hit, there has been an increase in the use of technology as a means to recruit and exploit.” She adds, “It targets the vulnerabilities, and therefore, it places everybody at risk because everybody has vulnerabilities.”

To make a meaningful difference, Lighthouse for Life has a two-fold approach. “For the education side,” says Ms. Kejr, “we do trainings all around the state, very tailored to our audience to help them understand what this looks like and to be a part of that fight.” To assist the survivors Lighthouse for Life operates Karis Home, a safe house for minors aged 12 to 21, and the ministry also provides referrals to case management services, which connect survivors with resources in the local community.

In early 2024, Lighthouse has plans to open a “one-stop-shop” drop-in center in a safe location that will offer programs “that can help empower survivors in their journey to healing,” says Ms. Kejr. “The center will allow for showers, laundry services, a meal at noon, resources for accessing needs within the community, like computers [and] assistance with job applications. It will provide a calendar of classes that our survivors can sign up for to either get life skills training and finance management, parenting classes, cooking classes, anything like that, or just skills to help them learn who they are.”

Biannually, Lighthouse hosts a 13week support group program called “Ending the Game” that is designed specifically for victims of sex trafficking. “That will allow them to really come to a place collectively within a community of other survivors and process their trauma and work through that,” says Ms. Kejr. If someone is in danger and needs immediate assistance, “The best thing to do is to call 9-1-1,” says Ms. Kejr, “or there's the [National Human Trafficking] hotline number, which is 888-373-7888.”

The three main ways the community can support Lighthouse for Life in achieving its mission is by giving financially, praying for the organization’s success, and serving and participating in activities (like the Light the Fight 5K Run/Walk in the spring). Get involved today and protect our youth in the Midlands!

LIGHTHOUSE FOR LIFE

Office: 6108 Bush River Rd. Columbia, SC 29212

Mail: 7320 Broad River Rd., Suite K 247 Irmo, SC 29063

info@lighthouseforlife.org

LighthouseforLife.com

803.669.0110

The donated home above on the left will be renovated in 2024 with your contributions. Projected plans are shown above on the right.

Grateful For All Our Furbabies

By Sharon Wolford

HAPPY TAILS OCTOBER IS NATIONAL ADOPT A SHELTER DOG MONTH

There is no way to know the exact number of dogs that find temporary refuge in community animal shelters each year. However, shelters are the last hope for an estimated 3.3 – 4.5 million misunderstood, abused, unwanted, or neglected dogs in need of a new beginning. As we celebrate National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, we hope that you will consider collaborating with local resources to protect, rescue, and support homeless dogs. Shelters make it a priority to carefully match each dog with a compatible owner.

Where will you start your search for your new “furbaby”? The Lexington County Animal Shelter is a great resource for anyone interested in helping stray animals through volunteer ing, donating supplies, or adopting a new friend. Potential new owners should have the appropriate home environment, supplies, and equipment to support the dog’s best second chance at a loving forever home. There is an adoption fee of $40.00, which includes the following procedures:

�� Heartworm testing, if old enough, and heartworm prevention

�� Deworming

�� Routine rabies vaccinations

�� Routine flea prevention

�� Microchipping

Some animals are rendered for adoption because of changes in living or financial situations, not because of poor behavior. Stray animals found or reported are carefully secured and receive any necessary initial medical attention. They also receive the proper training, socialization, grooming, and therapy to trust humans again and become eligible for adoption. At that point the animal is no longer considered an “animal”, but a forever PET.

Please consider adoption. Your pet will thank you for his second chance at a loving home with his boundless love and loyal companionship.

Fall is here!

Time to appreciate nature’s change from bright green hues to red and orange while inhaling the savory aroma of pumpkin spice floating through the air. Between deciding whether to decorate with a Halloween or harvest theme, and whether to serve family favorites or test some new, exciting recipes, preparing for the holiday season can be both thrilling and stressful. To add some zest to your celebration and reduce anxiety, the Our Town Magazine staff has culled some tastefully tempting and sinfully simple appetizers to aid in festivity preparations. By blending some new flavors with your traditional holiday menu, you can easily update and upgrade holiday fare with minimal additional effort. Just set one or more of these delightfully entertaining dishes among your seasonal spread and see which

Bacon Wrapped Asparagus with Balsamic Glaze

Submitted by: Kevin Boyd

INGREDIENTS:

• One bunch fresh asparagus

• Olive oil as needed

• Bacon (regular cut, not thick cut)

• Balsamic glaze (cold for thickness)

• Shaved Asiago or Parmesan cheese (OPTIONAL)

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat large skillet on medium heat, lightly coat with olive oil

2. Trim 1”-2” off bottom of asparagus, toss lightly with olive oil, do not blanch in water

3. Wrap each asparagus spear tight with bacon from bottom to top; squeeze gently to secure

4. Cook with seam end of bacon facing down in preheated skillet; pack spears tight

5. Rotate with tongs every few minutes to crisp bacon until completely cooked

7. Arrange on serving plate, crisscrossing each other, asparagus should overlap edges

8. Drizzle lightly with chilled balsamic glaze

9. (Optional) Lightly top with shaved Asiago or Parmesan cheese

6. Place on a plate lined with paper towels and allow to sit for 1 min. until firm

Pear Relish

In Loving Memory of Mary S. Ivey

INGREDIENTS:

• 5 c. vinegar

• 3 c. sugar

• 1 tbsp. salt

• 6 Vidalia onions

• 6 bell peppers (red or green)

• 1 peck of pears deseeded (equivalent to 12-14 pears)

• 2 or 3 hot peppers (if desired)

• 1 tbsp. turmeric

• 1/3 tbsp. celery seed

• 1/4 tbsp. dry mustard

DIRECTIONS:

1. Wash, dry, remove ends and seeds from peppers and pears

2. Mince and puree vegetables and pears until they are tiny chunks, strain in colander

3. Add peppers, pears, onions, vinegar, sugar, and salt into large pot, bring to a slow boil

4. Reduce heat and allow to simmer until vegetables change color

5. Remove from heat and add turmeric, celery seed, and dry mustard

6. DO NOT COVER. Continue to allow to cool

7. Serve with pita chips and veggies or serve atop of pork or chicken kabobs

8. Store remaining relish in mason jar in the refrigerator

Pineapple Shrimp

Submitted by: Carla Trotter

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 lb. of peeled and deveined shrimp

• 2 c. diced pineapple

• 1/4 c. diced jalapeños

• 1/4 c. diced red bell pepper

• 1/2 tbsp. lemon juice

• 1/2 tbsp. orange juice

• 2 tbsp. sugar

• 3 tsp. fresh cilantro, minced

DIRECTIONS:

1. Grill or pan sear shrimp

2. Mix pineapple, jalapeños, red bell pepper, lemon juice, orange juice, sugar, and cilantro

3. Chill until ready to serve

4. Serve over cooked shrimp on a bed of lettuce.

Being a Thankful Person

By Rev. Dan Williams

It seems that the older I get the more I think of things for which I am thankful. But that is not because life gets easier with fewer struggles as we age—the reality is quite the opposite. The practice of willfully giving thanks daily, even when life is hard, can help us cope with adversity as a kind of natural antidepressant. This is why God states in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

There is always something to be thankful for, even in the worst of circumstances. The greatest example of this is when Corrie Ten Boom and her sister, Betsie, were imprisoned in Ravensbrück Camp during WWII for hiding Jews. The sisters were together in a women’s labor camp and subjected to harsh conditions and brutal treatment by the Nazi guards. While trying to lead other women in prayer and teaching in their flea-infested barracks one day, Betsie thanked God for the fleas, much to Corrie’s objection. Betsie thanked God for the fleas because they were so bad that the prison guards would not come into the barracks. They had greater freedom to pray, worship, and encourage others, and Betsie was willfully thanking God for something unpleasant because it allowed for something better.

Giving thanks in bad circumstances may not change a predicament we encounter, but it will always change our perspective of the problem. A willful attitude of gratefulness is a manifestation of an inner optimism that will attract others. A thankful person will not be a lonely person; people naturally want to be around people who are positive and can see the

silver lining on every dark cloud. Can an entire community be grateful for something? You may have heard about the monument to the Boll Weevil in Enterprise, Alabama. From 1915-1918 the infestation of Boll Weevils decimated the cotton crop of every farmer in Coffee County. In 1916 the farmers agreed to begin converting their crops to peanuts. It became such a boom to the economy that in 1919 a statue of a Boll Weevil bug was erected on the town square.

I remember the tornadoes that touched Lexington County on August 16, 1994. Spurned from Tropical Storm Beryl, the system caused $50 million dollars of damage but did not result in any fatalities. Neighbors had opportunity to get acquainted as everyone pitched in to help while giving thanks to God for no loss of life and blessings along the road to recovery. Make it a practice to start each day thinking of three things for which you are thankful. Right now, I am thankful for my wife, my health, and the wonderful county of Lexington!

Rachel M. Lexington, SC

“I loved working with April. She was amazing! We had an offer in just a few days! She was super responsive and helped us navigate issues with a three hour time difference. I would and will always recommend April.”