YC Magazine - December 2020

FREE December 2020

Information you can use today Get ready for the Great Conjunction Spice up the holidays with a dash of humor Crowds are coming to the great outdoors ‌ And more!

The Magazine For York County!

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

An ending, a beginning, and a sky show A View From The Keyboard

By Pam Henson

Volume 17, Issue 12 YC Magazine is an entertainingly informative monthly magazine distributed throughout York County, South Carolina. © 2020 Pluto Publishing LLC Publisher ..... Pam Henson Design................ SC Biz News Editor ..... Jim Tatum Graphic Designer ..... Nicole Haggard For Advertising call Andrea Mounts at 704-817-1346 or email amounts@mecktimes.com All rights reserved. YC Magazine may not be reproduced in part or in whole in any form, format, or media without the permission of YC Magazine. The opinions expressed in YC Magazine are not necessarily the opinions of the publisher or staff of YC Magazine or Pluto Publishing LLC.

Letters to the Editor are welcome. Must include name, phone number, and email address. Email to YCeditorial@scbiznews.com. We are unable to respond to letters without an email address.

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life and in fiction. Examples of the underdog frequent books, movies and TV shows.

And our tendency is to root for the flawed, relatable person who rises against her/his obstacles and achieves something great.

That main character helps others rise, as well. Remember, “A rising tide lifts all boats.”

While we bring this year to a close, we all have hope for good things to come in the new year.

But before we jump ahead, let’s look at December and everything it has to offer.

First, get ready for Mother Nature’s fireworks, with the annual Geminid meteor shower the evening of Dec. 13 until dawn Dec. 14. The peak will be after midnight and should be spectacular. Find a darksky location, away from artificial light, and set up for viewing. Find a chair that allows you to recline, dress warmly (start with a

C o l u m n i s t s

I

t’s the 12th and final month of the year.

Historians will highlight this year for the COVID-19 pandemic and humanity’s efforts to combat the virus, along with the ongoing economic fallout and recovery. There are also many, many personal stories of kindness, compassion and generosity that don’t necessarily make the headlines but should be remembered. This especially includes those on the front lines of the pandemic who are putting themselves in harm’s way to help others. Thank you for all you do.

We all have obstacles in everyday life.

As the storied football coach Vince Lombardi succinctly stated, “It doesn’t matter how many times you get knocked down, but how many times you get up.” People and their stories of strength and resilience give us hope and inspiration, both in real

hat to cap off your heat chimney), and sip on your favorite warm beverage. This year, the moon is almost new, providing dark skies for good viewing.

Christmas is coming fast, as well as Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. With safety protocols in place, we may be celebrating these holidays a bit differently this year. But that doesn’t mean you can’t make the most of it. Let’s turn York County into the county with the most holiday lights! Christmas light displays were always very special to Bill and me, and we traveled far and wide to seek them out every year. Now when I come across someone’s creative light display, I smile a little Christmas smile and wish the decorator a Merry Christmas.

Pull out all of your Christmas lights this year and get the kids to help decorate your house and yard. Pass on the tradition and make some fun memories in the pro-

cess. Go adventuring to find your favorite Christmas light show display around the area. FaceTime or video your light displays to share with family and friends in other areas, or even compete for silly prizes.

What a fun way to spread some joy to those who may be isolated.

Don’t forget that December is an essential economic month for retailers. Especially this year, our local restaurants, shops and charities need all the help they can get. When you eat, eat York County (YC).

When you shop, shop YC. When you give, give YC. When you support locally, you’re supporting your neighbors, family, and friends.

Bill’s favorite holiday greeting was to wish everyone a Cool Yule, and I carry on that tradition. I wish everyone a Cool Yule and a Happy New Year. Spread the joy, York County! yc

YC Magazine Columnists: Dr. Kelly Baete.................................. Animal Health Mike Baker........................................ Photography Beth Crosby....................................... Wordsmithing Dr. Steve Fields................................. Nature Angela P. Forbes............................... Nutrition & Food Safety Todd Harrell.................................... Disc Golf Walt Heinsohn................................. Law Laurie Helms................................... Parks and Recreation Carole Holmberg.............................. Astronomy Tim Jones......................................... Music Zach Lemhouse................................. History Dr. Robert Lesslie............................. Health Stuart Lord........................................ Track Talk Rebecca Melton................................ Service Deb Pittman......................................Aging Lauren Paige Powell.........................Dog’s Life Pluto.................................................. Furry Philosopher Nancy Sambets................................. Photo Gallery Cameron Shook................................ The Great Outdoors Paul Thompson................................. Horticulture Dr. Kevin Wickes.............................. Psychology Stacy Williams.................................. Library

About the cover: A wreath

brings holiday cheer to an old York County barn. (Photo/Jan Todd)

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

Yes!

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CONTENTS column

list

Aging...............................34

Photo Gallery..................26

Animal Health ................31

Photography ...................18

Astronomy ......................19

Pluto-ism ..........................5

Connections.................... 17

Psychology ...................... 11

Disc Golf......................... 14

Service ............................16

Dog’s Life........................29

Track Talk.......................20

Great Outdoors...............28

Wordsmithing.................22

Health.............................. 8 History..............................6 Horticulture ....................12 Law..................................21

Family

Library ........................... 33

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Moon Phases .................. 35 Music...............................18

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Nature..............................10

89

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Nutrition ........................ 30 Parks and Recreation......32

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December 2020

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yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

Pluto’s Corner

Deep Dog Thoughts

By Pluto

“The dog has seldom been successful in pulling man up to its level of sagacity, but man has frequently dragged the dog down to his.” – James Thurber

Depositphotos.com

Editor’s note: If you have some pet-related wisdom to share with other readers, please email your submission for consideration to YCeditorial@scbiznews.com.

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yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

History

York County’s Yesteryears

By Zach Lemhouse

Horse tales from the Revolution

Christian Huck being shot from Blanch’s saddle (The Final Charge, oil on canvas. Dan Nance, 2014. (Image courtesy of Culture & Heritage Museums of York County, SC.)

F

or nearly 5,000 years, horses have been loyal companions to humans in times of war and peace. Horses were native to North America but died out towards the end of the last ice age. They returned to the continent with Spanish conquistadors in the early 1500s. By the 17th century, Native Americans had integrated horses into their culture which greatly improved their success in battles, trades, and hunts. In the 18th century, horses played an integral part in the American RevoluPAGE 6

tion for Loyalists and Patriots alike. With this in mind, let us take a look at some notable horses and their equine escapades from our Revolutionary past.

Blanch Blanch was a fine English stallion owned by Daniel Williams, who lived along Turkey Creek in present-day York County. On June 22, 1780, the infamous Capt. Christian Huck met with Backcountry South Carolinians in the nearby

Fishing Creek Community to encourage them to swear an oath of allegiance to the Crown. Daniel Williams rode Blanch to Huck’s meeting. Upon their arrival, the British captain began to “harangue” the assembled throng “on the certainty of his majesty’s reducing all the Colonies to obedience.” Before departing, Huck and his dragoons took all the horses present at the assembly fit for service, including Blanch. Capt. Huck had taken a particular liking to the steed and confiscat-

ed him to serve as his personal mount.

The following month, Patriot militiamen John Carroll shot Huck from Blanch’s back as he beat a hasty retreat at the Battle of Williamson’s Plantation. During the battle, the Patriots captured several horses that Huck and his men had confiscated prior to the engagement. All were returned to their previous owners, including Blanch, who was eventually reunited with Daniel Williams.

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

Washington next to a horse. However, Prescott would go down in South Carolina history after being featured in a portrait with his owner in 1792. That year, Charleston’s city council commissioned artist John Trumbull to paint a portrait commemorating the President’s weeklong visit to the city in 1791. Trumbull’s initial painting, which depicted Washington and Blueskin as they appeared during the Revolution in 1777, was rejected because the council wanted a “more matter-of-fact likeness, such as they had recently seen him [Washington]” during his tour of the city. According to tradition, the artist, who was irritated and perhaps insulted by the city council’s request, created a new masterpiece featuring Prescott with his hindquarters facing the viewer. Charleston’s cityscape is placed precariously between the animal’s hind legs. Though there is no concrete evidence that Trumbull featured Prescott so prominently in this portrait out of spite, it is interesting to note that none of Trumbull’s other portraits of Washington depict the general’s horse in quite the same position. yc

John Trumbull’s initial portrait of Washington (General George Washington at Trenton on the night of January 2, 1777. John Trumbull, 1792. Public Domain) Ringtail Ringtail, aptly named due to the white ring around his tail, was a thoroughbred horse that belonged to the infamous turncoat William “Bloody Bill” Cunningham. In November of 1781, Cunningham led his battalion of mounted Loyalist militia on a scorched earth campaign against Patriots in the Carolina Backcountry. This campaign, since known as the “Bloody Scout,” is what earned William Cunningham the nickname.

The Bloody Scout lasted from mid-November to late December of 1781 and Ring Tail was Cunningham’s mount for

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the duration. After John Trumbull’s second portrait of Washington including the more than a month requested edits (Washington at the City of Charleston. John of carrying Bloody Trumbull, 1792. Public Domain) Bill, Ringtail died of bells throughout British-occupied of fatigue caused by the exertions of their Charles Town. long pursuits. According to tradition, Cunningham displayed more emotion Prescott over the loss of his horse than he ever Prescott was a white charger purdisplayed for the widows and orphans chased by George Washington in 1789. that he left in his wake. One report indi- Unfortunately for Prescott, he is not cates that Cunningham “wept like a child nearly as famous as Blueskin, the horse over his poor favorite and friend.” It is who served as Washington’s primary said that Ringtail received an impressive mount during the American Revolution. funeral with full military honors, includ- Blueskin has been immortalized in nearing the firing of volleys and the tolling ly every painting that depicts George

Zach Lemhouse is the resident historian for the Culture and Heritage Museums of York County and the Director of the Southern Revolutionary War Institute. If you have any questions or suggestions for future article topics you can reach Zach at ZacharyLemhouse@gmail.com

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yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

Health

The Doctor’s Corner

By Robert D. Lesslie, MD, MPH

Sticks and stones … and collar bones

Depositphotos.com “Mrs. Dagenhart, why don’t you bring Noah over here and we’ll take a look at his x-rays.” I flipped the switch of the view-box, back-lighting the films of the three-year-old’s wrist. She walked up behind me, carrying her young son. “I know most parents aren’t used to looking at x-rays,” I told her, pointing to a buckled area in one of the bones of his wrist. “But that’s where he broke it.” She leaned closer, peering at the film. “Oh good. At least it’s not fractured.”

S

ay what? Broken, fractured or cracked, they’re all the same thing, and all have the same implications.

We encounter another common misconception on an almost daily basis. “Andrew fell at the skating rink and hurt his arm. We wanted to get it x-rayed, but there’s probably nothing PAGE 8

wrong, since he can move it.” Not so fast. Just because someone can move an injured limb doesn’t mean it’s not broken, fractured or cracked. Movement doesn’t mean anything.

Pediatric bones and joints pose a unique set of problems and potential pitfalls. The good news is that most boney injuries in children do very well, with the right attention and treatment. Kids heal quickly, and broken bones do as well. As an example, a fractured wrist in a 40-year-old will take four to six weeks to resolve, assuming there is good alignment and immobilization. A 4-year-old’s wrist will heal in as little as three weeks, again with adequate immobilization. And the healing is more complete, with less chance of resultant arthritis or movement limitation. For instance, if I saw that 40-year-old 10 years from now with

another hand or forearm injury, I would probably ask him, “When did you break your wrist?” His bone might have completely healed, but you would forever be able to tell where it was broken. Not so with the 4-year-old. In as little as a year, you wouldn’t be able to find the site. Interesting stuff, and important. Kids’ fractures usually do well, properly diagnosed and treated.

Here’s another orthopedic term for the parents of young children: a greenstick fracture. You’ve probably heard of that, or maybe a buckle or torus fracture.

This usually occurs in any of a child’s long bones (forearm, humerus, lower leg) and conceptually is more of a stress/bending of a bone, rather than a complete break.

If you or I fell on ice and landed on our outstretched hand, we would probably snap one of the bones in our wrist, usually

the radius. A child might also slip and fall, land on his wrist or hand, and that bone would be “broken,” but not in two.

Think of holding a small limb from a dogwood tree and bending it. Rather than cracking apart (like an old, dry stick), it bends and frays, but doesn’t completely separate. One side usually remains intact. That’s what frequently happens with a child’s bone and is the reason they heal so quickly. Again, it must be diagnosed and treated appropriately — and sometimes manipulated a little — to make sure the alignment is corrected. But usually, the key for most of these injuries is immobilization and a little time.

There are several important pediatric orthopedic issues that we’ll need to consider, but right now, let’s take a look at one of the most common boney prob-

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine lems we encounter and what you need to know about it.

“Jeffrey and his brother Robbie were on their trampoline this afternoon, and Jeffrey came into the house holding his shoulder. We can’t find Robbie, so we really don’t know what happened.”

Trampoline. Hmmm… that and the skateboard had to be invented by an orthopedist. “Okay, let’s take a look,” I told the anxious mother.

Jeffrey whimpered while I gently examined his shoulder and clavicle. There was a tender, swollen area over the mid-shaft of his collar bone, and a couple of x-rays defined the problem. “He’s broken his clavicle,” I told his mother.

“But he’s going to do fine. Everything else looks good, and he’ll need an arm sling for a couple of weeks, and some ice and Tylenol. Just try to keep him as quiet as possible until this has healed.

And off that trampoline.”

Jeffrey was 5 years old and this was another of those green-stick fractures. The bone was broken, but bent and not separated. It was going to do great. Most clavicle fractures do, until we reach our mid to late teens and beyond. Then the bone frequently breaks in two. That can sometimes happen with a younger child, but the treatment and outcome will usually be the same.

An orthopedist once told me that with a complete fracture of a clavicle in a child Jeffrey’s age, “All you have to do is get the two ends in the same room and it will heal great.” Not so with a 19-yearold or adult. These injuries are more complicated beyond childhood and can frequently require surgery to repair.

But not with Jeffrey, or most of these fractures in our pediatric patients.

I hope you noticed the recommended treatment for this injury — a simple arm sling. A lot of parents think that something more needs to be done, after all, this is a fracture, isn’t it? We used to do something more — a figure-ofeight bandage that wrapped behind a child’s neck and under his armpits. We would cinch this up as tight as possible,

December 2020

Depositphotos.com pulling those shoulders back as much as we could. Really painful for the child and completely unnecessary. More complications, pain, and frustration, and no difference in healing and/or good outcomes. In hindsight, it seems

pretty barbaric.

A simple arm sling. If you find yourself in an ER or clinic and someone tries to do anything more than that, have them read this. And you might ask the healthcare provider if he knows the

difference between a fracture, a break, and a crack. yc Dr Lesslie’s Angels in the ER is available at bookstores and on the internet. For more information check out RobertLesslie.com.

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yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

Nature The Naturalist’s Journal

By Dr. Steve Fields

Enduring evergreens

A

s we move through the holiday season in one of the most unique years in recent history, allow me to share an article from a previous issue of YC Magazine. I wish everyone safe, healthy, and blessed holidays.

By mid-December, most of the leaves have fallen from the deciduous trees, but the landscape still retains patches of green color. This is due to the fact that forests of the Carolina Piedmont contain a mix of deciduous hardwood trees and evergreen trees, including pines and cedars. Although there are numerous species of pines, the dominant types in York County are loblolly pine, shortleaf pine, and Virginia pine.

The eastern red cedar, which is not a true cedar but a juniper (note the sciPAGE 10

depositphotos.com entific name: Juniperus virginiana) is also quite common.

Rather than having broad, flat leaves, evergreens typically have leaves that are modified into long, thin needles with a waxy coating. This is another means of reducing water loss from the leaves. Most evergreen trees are also coniferous, or “cone-bearing.” They produce seeds enclosed in a cone, but do not have flowers or fruit. What appears to be berries on the eastern red cedar and other junipers are in fact tiny cones covered with a scaly, fleshy material that makes them look like berries.

Eastern red cedars share an important relationship with birds that eat the fleshy cones, which pass through the digestive tract and get deposited some

distance from the parent tree. Have you ever noticed young red cedars sprouting under barb-wire or split rail fences?

This is a testament to the “perch and poop” habits of the berry-eating birds.

There are a few evergreen trees that are not cone-bearing that do produce flowers. These include certain hollies and magnolias that do not, of course have needles, but they do have stiff, waxy leaves to protect the moisture content.

The true haven for coniferous evergreen trees is the northern latitudes.

Canadian forests include a variety of fir, spruce, cedar, pine and hemlock trees. All of these have waxy or scaly needles to retain moisture in the colder, drier climate of the boreal forest.

Around 18,000 years ago, glaciers covered most of Canada and the northern United States, and although the glaciers never came as far south as Carolinas, evidently the boreal forests did.

Fossil pollen suggests that spruce and fir forests were quite common in parts of the Carolinas during the Ice Age. Two particularly common species were the red spruce and jack pine. Later, as global temperatures rose, the glaciers and evergreen forests retreated north as deciduous trees came to dominate the warm, moist climate of the southern regions.

The very characteristic that makes evergreen trees so tolerant of cold, dry conditions also endears them to humans during the holiday season. I’ve always found it interesting that we are so attracted to Christmas trees. Don’t get me wrong. I love the evergreens of the holiday season, and I’m as eager as any child to get to the tree farm for the perfect tannenbaum. But what other season or sentiment prompts us to go out, cut down or dig up a tree…a tree… and bring it inside our homes? Then, we grant it a place of reverence at the expense of some treasured piece of furniture! Once placed and decorated, however, it seems that no adaptation of leaves can prevent the inevitable desiccation of the tree as we diligently try to keep water in tree stand.

After the holidays, I cannot help but feel a little sad when it is time to take down the admittedly drier, browner, barer tree that brought such warm feelings to the household. One idea to extend the holiday theme is to “plant” the tree in the backyard and decorate it with goodies and treats for the birds, an unconventional alternative to winter bird feeders, to be sure!

Whatever the means you choose to incorporate evergreens into your holiday festivities, remember that their tolerance for dryness has limits, so please be careful with electrical wires and candles, and accept my best wishes for a joyous and blessed holiday season! yc Dr. Steven E. Fields is the curator of natural history for the Culture and Heritage Museums and an adjunct instructor of biology at Winthrop University and York Technical College. You can contact “Dr. Steve” at 803-909-7216 or email stevefields@chmuseums.org.

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

Psychology

Working Within

By Dr. Kevin Wickes, LPC, NCC, CEAP

Projection is our perception

B

y the time this article is being read, we are between the holidays of Thanksgiving and quickly approaching Christmas – we’re in the holiday season. Ah, the flavors, the sights, the sounds, the smells, and the touches of Christmas and the holiday season — priceless. Can you sense it — touch, smell, taste, see, and hear? You’ve already experienced Thanksgiving, being thankful for all we have and attempting to recover from the feast and prepare for Christmas. Think about what I am having you exercise — the sensations.

Many of you will be having thoughts surrounding the holidays such as past holiday memories, the anticipation/anxiety, etc. You have “walked” through the door of perception (vs being “real” with our sensation or sensing). This past month, I have re-learned the source of one of our perceptions: it is our projection.

What is our projection? Projection is a defense mechanism that often is our “friend” in how we approach our world of life, relationships, events, etc., to protect our ego or sense of self, especially, in conflicts/confrontations. Freud defines projection as it “involves individuals attributing their own unacceptable thoughts, feelings and motives to another person.” In addition, often our projections are based on unresolved past. Hence, the reason that “projection is our perception.” In previous articles, I have quoted the thought “nothing is ever real, it is perceived.” Thus, one of our sources of perception is our projection.

During the holidays, we will be “projecting” more times than we would like to admit onto our gatherings, fellowships, gifts, meals, moments, etc. Projections can be positive; however, often it is based on negatives (due to our natural tendency to focus on what is uneasy and/or uncomfortable).

What if we took a different approach: being in the moment with our senses of touch, taste, smell, see, and hearing? What a concept! I know, being in the moment with our “senses” is difficult, especially, when there are many tasks, goals/objectives, worries/ anxieties, expectations and so much more to pre-occupy the moment. The sad or negative part of our projection/perception is that we miss out on so many signs and wonders of what our “senses” offer — the magical moment (the positives) of the holidays. Unfortunately, we take for granted our senses until we have “lost” them; we truly understand the “gift” of our senses,

depositphotos.com being in the moment and real.

As you have an opportunity of moments during the holidays, I might suggest/propose that you purchase the book “The Boy, the mole, the fox and the horse” by Charlie Mackesy, and read it to either self, others and/or family and friends. It is a powerful story of being in the moment.

Try some of these other “sensational” moments:

• Send your holiday cards • Decorate the front door • Socially distant cookie swap with neighbors or friends • Decorate a gingerbread house.

• Send holiday cards to the armed forces and to children’s hospitals.

• Send your holiday wishes to those in our communities who could really use the extra warm wishes this (and every) season.

• Christmas movie night • Take a drive around to see the holiday lights.

• Bake holiday cookie, or cakes, or pies.

It’s your kitchen, you choose!

• Beautiful photo holiday cards or hand painted designs. Post-consumer recycled paper. All mailed for you

• Start some new holiday traditions in 2020!

• Send a letter to Santa with the kids.

• Take a holiday family photo yourself (hello, self-timer).

• Donate toys!

• Start a tradition to read a bedtime story by the Christmas tree • Family slumber party under the tree or in a holiday fort • Make your own holiday playlist.

• Game night, make it festive.

• Kid friendly socially distant holiday activities • Put on a family talent show — and stream it live for your extended family.

• Write a book together!

• Learn a new language — or parts of one • Have a little “Top Chef “competition right at home for the kiddos • Have a photo competition with the kids • Create some magic with DIY science experiments • Create some theatre • Play in the garden as a family or plant some house plants • Make a gratitude list to finish off the year.

Non-Holiday specific activities • Socially distant book chain swap (Secret Santa book version).

• Plan a getaway for 2021 — as soon as it’s safe to travel again.

• Take an online course • Treat yourself to a spa day • Write thank you notes to those in your life who have been there for you.

• Tune into a soap opera on mute and create your own dialogue.

• Finally read those books that have been sitting on your shelves • Learn to make fancy cocktails.

• Read the Harry Potter series (watch the movies after each book). (source:www.postable.com) So many fun “real senses” to spend the 2020 holiday season. Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas! yc Dr. Kevin Wickes, LPC, NCC, CEAP, is a seasoned, licensed, and certified counselor and professor of Integrative Counseling Services, LLC. Contact him at 843-647-1162 or dr.kwickes@gmail.

PAGE 11

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December 2020

Horticulture

Growing York County

By Paul Thompson

Small fruits for the home garden

The easiest way to grow and care for a muscadine vine is to train it along a single wire. Vines are planted under the wire every 20 feet. (Photo: Barbara Smith/Clemson UIniversity)

N

ot everyone has the space needed for fruit trees, nor the expertise to properly care for them, but there are two small fruits that are well-suited to our climate and are relatively easy to care for. Blueberries and muscadines are very nutritious fruits that are high in antioxidants. Both these fruits can be eaten fresh or processed into jams or jellies. Late winter is the time when you will be finding these plants in the local garden centers.

Blueberries are native to the North America, and there are multiple species to extend the range from Florida to Canada. In this area we recommend the Rabbiteye blueberry varieties that have better heat tolerance and good disease resistance.

Rabbiteye blueberries are broken into three groups of early season (late May-June), mid season (June-July), and late season (July-August). What PAGE 12

you choose to plant would depend on the intended use. If you want to have an extended season of blueberries for fresh eating, then you might want to have blueberries from all three groups, but if you wanted to make jam, it might be easier to have a large crop in a shorter period of time.

When choosing varieties, you want to plant two different varieties of each seasonal group you are planting. The recommended varieties for South Carolina are, early season -- Beckyblue, Bonita, Brightwell, Climax, Premier, Woodard; midseason -- Bluebelle, Briteblue, Chaucer, Powderblue, Tifblue; late season -- Baldwin, Centurion, Choice, Delite.

Blueberries need well-drained soils with a soil pH of around 5.0. They will also be the most productive in full sun, with production diminishing with in-

creasing shade. A soil test is the first step in planting and ideally should be done six months prior to planting so that the pH can be adjusted if needed. Create raised beds by tilling in two to three inches of compost and mounding the soil into long rows that are six inches higher than the surrounding soil. These beds should be at least three feet wide, with the plants spaced six feet apart.

Even though Rabbiteye blueberries are drought tolerant once established, regular watering during dry periods is important for production. The use of soaker hoses or drip tubing is much more efficient that overhead sprinklers.

You also want to apply a two to threeinch layer of mulch to conserve moisture and cool the soil.

Aside from watering, maintenance is fairly easy. Blueberries need minimal pruning by completely removing

old, unproductive canes and pruning back overly vigorous shoots to promote branching and fruiting. Pruning is normally done in late winter. Fertilization should be based on a soil test to correct any deficiencies. Birds love blueberries and will be the most persistent “pest� problem to deal with. The best way to exclude birds is to use bird netting which you can buy at local hardware stores and garden centers.

Muscadines are our native, southern grape. Unlike bunch grapes, muscadines have a thick skin that some find unpalatable. The meat of the fruit is very flavorful and good for fresh eating, and well as preserving and even used for winemaking. The advantages of muscadines over bunch grapes are that they are much more heat tolerant, and disease resistant.

Scuppernongs or bullaces are two

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

Clockwise, from top; a healthy blueberry bush( Photo: Joey Williamson/Clemson University); black and bronze muscadines (Photos:Erik Lovestrand/University of Florida)

more colloquial names for the nutritious fruit. Muscadines are either black-fruited or bronze-fruited, with many named varieties within each group. There are also varieties that are self-fruitful (do not need a pollinator) or ones that are self–unfruitful (do need a pollinator), so if you plant a variety that is self-unfruitful, you also need to plant another that is self-fruitful for pollination and fruit production to occur. The following is a partial list of recommended varieties (those with an asterisk * are self fruitful): Bronze Carlos*, Fry, Darlene, Doreen*, Summit, and Tara*. BLACK – Black Beauty, Cowart*, Nesbit*, Southern Home*, Sugargate, Supreme, and Scarlet (red fruit). Bronze varieties can pollinate black varieties and vice versa.

Muscadines also need well-drained soils and red clay will benefit from the addition of compost. Locate vines in full sun for best production. You find

many old home sites with overhead arbors. This is not the best method for production, because after a few years, the vines become almost impossible to prune. Annual pruning is the most important factor in getting good production. To make this easier, it is best to train vines on a single horizontal wire.

Use heavy gauge wire (No. 9) that is strung between posts every 20 feet.

You need 20 feet of wire per vine. The wire should be four to five feet above the ground.

Vines are planted under the wire.

Train the vines to the wire in both directions maintaining a single stem (cordon) in each direction. To maintain good productivity, lateral branches along the cordon are pruned back each year leaving spurs which have two or three buds. Spurs should be spaced along the cordon every six inches, so you may need to completely remove some if they are too close. If you do not prune muscadines annually, the productivity will be less and less each year from shading.

The vines will also benefit from fertilization each year. This is normally done when the vines are beginning to leaf out in the spring. Water the plants if we are going through dry spells, especially in late spring and early summer when the fruits are developing. yc Paul Thompson is a Horticulture Agent with the Clemson Extension Service. Contact him at (803) 684-9919, ext. 112.

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PAGE 13

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

Disc Golf

Turn And Fade

By Todd Harrell

Disc golf dream vacation

depositphotos.com

T

here are times when I hear about an incredible disc golf course many miles away and I’ll say to myself, “I’ll play that someday.” Or, I’ll remember playing some fond course many years and states away and I’ll remind myself to someday revisit it.

And then there are times my imagination really runs wild and I daydream PAGE 14

about setting off on some epic disc golf vacation/adventure and hit all of these courses.

Granted, it’s unlikely to happen, especially with a job, family, and a house to hold down. But what if the stars aligned to make it possible? I’ve been thinking about it, on and off, for a while and I’ve already got most of it planned out.

Green Light After I get the green light from the wife, I’d break out a huge map of the U.S. (not sure where I’d get it, maybe Rock Hill High School would have some in their give-away pile next to other outdated technology like overhead projectors).

Once the map was secured, I’d plot out my route which would combine both

wish-list courses I’ve always wanted to play and good ol’ favorites I’ve wanted to play again. And this is how it would go: From Rock Hill, I’d first head to the Northeast 1st Stop: Maple Hill (Wish List) Maple Hill Disc Golf Course – Leicester, Mass. Est. 2002.

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine Pay-to-play courses are often a rarity here in the Carolinas. However, this New England gem, home to the MVP Open, is definitely worth the $8 per round cost.

Plus, it’s ranked No. 2 by UDisc’s top 50 courses in the world.

Next, I’d head west toward the Midwest 2nd Stop: Kaposia Park (Good Ol’ Favorite) Kaposia Park Disc Golf Course – South St. Paul, Minn. Est. 1990.

Back when I was new to the game and played with only one or two discs, I was brought to the great Kaposia Disc Golf Course, located inside a public park. Of course, me being a newbie, I had no idea how awesome this course was at the time (I’d later find out it was home to the 2001 Pro World Championships and many other notable events), but it still made a favorable impression on me. I’d love to play it again, now as a more experienced golfer.

Lodging: Definitely No Camping One thing’s for sure: I’m not sleeping in my car to make this trip happen. That might’ve worked in my twenties. But I’m in my forties now and there’s no way I’m putting my body through the contorted sleeping positions of car slumber.

No camping either. I don’t care what it

December 2020

costs. Just give me a Hampton Inn (I’m sure there’s one near each stop) with clean sheets, towels, and a nightly cookie and I will definitely be one happy camper.

After Minnesota, I’ll keep heading west all the way to Cali 3rd Stop: California Leg (Wish list) Oak Grove (Hahamongna Park) – Pasadena, Calif. Est. 1975.

Although its holes may be behind the times for today’s long drivers, this course is still a must for any disc golfer with a sense of history. It is known to be the world’s first permanent disc golf course with a “pole hole” (we call them baskets now) and it was designed by disc golf pioneer “Steady” Ed Headrick.

DeLaveaga Park – Santa Cruz, Calif.

1983.

As an avid disc golfer, you often see pics of DeLaveaga’s 27th hole known as “Top of the World.” From its hillside peak tee pad, the breathtaking views of the entire course and nearby mountains are visible.

Home of the annual Masters Cup, this is a must play for anyone traveling to California.

Disc Golf Tourism: Just as Good as Major League Stadium Tourism Over my life as a sporting fan, I’ve visited more than my fair share of professional and college stadiums and each new one is a thrill. But as just a fan, I’m never able to

experience playing there. With my disc golf tour, I can play each destination.

Heading back home and back East 4th Stop: Selah Ranch (Wish List) Selah Ranch Creekside and Lakeside courses – Talco, Texas. Est. 2011.

These two Texas beauties are the pride and joy of master course designer John Houck. Home of the Amateur World Doubles Championship, you can enjoy comfortable onsite lodging -- plus you may even encounter some local wildlife while there like coyotes, armadillos, and wild hogs.

Tools for the Adventure: • New tires for the family grocery getter.

• Snacks – tons of trail mix with the yogurt covered raisins.

• 3 pairs of disc golf shoes.

• Lots of extra discs.

I’d continue through the Southeast 5th Stop: Mississippi. (Good Ol’ Favorite) Veterans Park Original – Tupelo, Miss.

Est. 2003.

Though I played countless rounds here while living in Tupelo, the last time I played there was more than 10 years ago.

A lot of fond memories are tied to these holes. A few aces too.

Back in SC Final Stop: South Carolina (Good ole’

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Favorite) Shaver Park Recreation Center – Seneca, S.C. Est. 2003.

Very tight, woodsy course that helped shape my game into what it is. I’d love to see the changes and how I’d stack up against it today. Plus, it’s where I lost my dog, Choco Taco, one rainy night and we miraculously found each other the next morning.

Disc Golf Dream Vacation is the Only Way to do it There would be one other way to see all of these courses without taking off a bunch of time from work and that would be to become a professional disc golfer that tours the country and world playing the best disc golf courses.

I’ve never been a pro disc golfer. I imagine it would have its incredible moments.

But to me, it seems that some of the wonder and fun of traveling to new courses and destinations is removed when you are focused on playing well and winning enough money to keep food in your tummy and gas in your vehicle.

That’s why a trip like this, as a recreational player, would be so awesome. I could take my time, see sights along the way and just enjoy myself on some of my favorite courses on the planet. yc Todd Harrell plays disc golf, among other things.

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yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

Service A Helping Hand for the Community

By Rebecca Melton

Reflections from the president

A

s I look back on the year 2020, I am hopeful for our future. This past year at United Way of York County has shown us that our community shows up for one another. The unprecedented chal-

PAGE 16

lenges of this year have magnified the fact that we are all connected and interdependent. That is why United Way is committed to bringing people together to create a community where everyone thrives.

Despite this year’s challenges, we have a lot to celebrate at UWYC. We funded 22 community programs providing critical services in York County. This community investment was made possible by the generosity of in dividuals, businesses, and foundations who contributed to United Way of York County during the campaign for 2019-2020.

This was the first year we offered a Financial Stability Grant. As you know, we transformed into an issue-focused United Way over a three-year period. By adopting one critical issue to address in York County, we focus not only on United Way’s efforts but also on the whole community’s efforts to accomplish a shared Bold Goal - to help 3,000 York County families achieve financial stability by 2030.

The funded programs help individuals learn job-hunting and job preparedness skills, increase their knowledge of effective financial practices, help make ends meet by providing supportive services for those with loved ones depending on them, and much more.

Another success was our COVID-19 Family Fund. The COVID-19 Family Fund helped those impacted avoid eviction or foreclosure, ensured that our citizens did not go without critical utility services, and assured families could access supportive services for their loved ones. One hundred percent of the contributions to the fund went to support non-profits directly serving our neighbors facing economic distress associated with COVID-19. The fund raised $24,960.

We can’t reflect on 2020 without thanking the frontline workers who continue to keep essential services going. It is because of them that our hope and well-being can continue. Healthcare professionals, food industry workers, law enforcement, teachers, delivery drivers, public safety, and so many others have put their health at risk to keep our community running.

Additionally, our work could not be done without the generosity of local businesses and companies running a Workplace Campaign. United Way Workplace Campaign programs unite employees across a company to give them an opportunity to donate, volunteer, and advocate for causes that matter to them. I am so thankful for the companies that continue to support UWYC, even during this unpredictable time. It takes everyone in the community

working together to create a brighter future.

An initiative I am excited to share with you is the Self-Sufficiency Standard prepared by the University of Washington on behalf of the United Way Association of South Carolina. The Self-Sufficiency Standard for South Carolina is a measure of income adequacy that is based on the costs of basic needs for working families: housing, child care, food, health care, transportation, and miscellaneous items, as well as the cost of taxes and the impact of tax credits.

According to this study, for a family of three living in York County (one adult and two kids), the annual wage required to be self-sufficient is $50,746. To put this number into perspective, 21% of York County households earn less than $25,000.

The official poverty measure, developed half a century ago, is now methodologically out of date and no longer accurately measures the ability to provide for oneself and one’s family - at best, it measures “deprivation.” Throughout South Carolina, the Self-Sufficiency Standard shows that incomes well above the official federal poverty thresholds are nevertheless far below what is necessary to meet families’ basic needs.

United Way of York County is looking forward to using the study results to help clients of workforce training programs seeking paths to self-sufficiency or those in financial literacy programs to prepare realistic budgets. The study can also inform local employers striving to pay a living wage and advise policymakers and legislators seeking to ensure that basic needs are affordable for South Carolina families.

The United Way of York County’s mission is to help 3,000 York County families achieve financial stability by 2030. Our work is just beginning. As we look to 2021, I am excited about the stories of success to come. When one individual succeeds, our community as a whole succeeds. It is evident that York County is a community of helpers, and we must continue to come together to lift our neighbors. yc Rebecca Melton is the President of United Way of York County, SC.

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

Connections Helping Hands

By Beth Covington

Christmas should be about love, not materialism

Depositphotos.com

F

inally, December is here! While I hate winter, I do love Christmas! Winter is kinda gloomy, with it getting dark so early and staying dark until on up in the morning. Most plant life goes dormant in the winter and looks dead as a doornail. It’s cold, dreary and otherwise undesirable. But then you have Christmas! Christmas cookies, Christmas movies, Christmas dinners, Christmas lights, Christmas carols — it’s so awesome! Bright, bold, beautiful, blingy Christmas!

Of course, with Christmas comes presents. Small gifts from friends, white elephant gifts at work, and Santa at home.

Most of us aren’t rolling in disposable income and we search for bargains and great deals, online and in stores. Toss COVID in the mix and some of us are in difficult financial situations. That can dim the Christmas Spirit, but it shouldn’t. Christmas should be more about the thought and the love, not so much the materialistic item in your hands. See if any of these suggestions help make this Christmas more about meaning and less about materialism.

Give from your heart. Yes, money always plays a part in gift-giving, but consider less

how much it costs and does it look like “enough” and instead, think of something unique about the receiver. This is where Pinterest and the internet can come into play. Search for their hobbies and see what pops up. Example, do you know a girl who loves softball? What about taking her jersey number and painting it on a canvas with her team colors and a softball in the corner?

Print out your idea, rub a pencil all over the back of the paper and then lay it flat on the canvas. Trace the pattern onto the canvas so now you can cheat and make it look like you are an artist! Someone like to write letters?

What about a wax seal kit. Or a book of stamps. Know a farmer? What about a hat in their favorite tractor company or the history of the company. There are millions of ideas for every hobby imaginable. So, think outside of the confines of dollar signs and see what you can come up with that would be meaningful to your receiver.

Give from your hands. Create something. Even if you aren’t the most creative person in the county, you can create something yourself. My sister can bake, and a gift of cookies and brownies or breads and spreads make great gifts. My mom is artistic

and has gifted several pieces of artwork, or cards made by hand. One of my aunt crochets amazing scarves and lap blankets. It’s something they can’t go out and buy in a store, and it holds meaning because you’ve taken the time to create it yourself. Think about where your talents lie and what you can do yourself and gift.

Support other’s handiwork. I know someone out there is shaking their head saying there is no way they can create something on their own. Ok, that’s fine, support someone else’s talent. Handcrafted items are available everywhere you turn during the holidays. I love the uniqueness of handcrafted items – pottery coffee mugs, hand painted ornaments, crocheted scarves, homemade mini pound cake loaves, a jar of homemade jelly, hand sewn pillows, and so on and so forth. Support the small, local businesses and craftsmen and give something your receiver doesn’t already own.

Give to others. While you are out and about, finding great bargains and superb deals, think about those less fortunate during the holidays. I found an amazing deal on a fleece pullover for my niece. But she already has plenty and doesn’t need an-

other, no matter how adorable it is. That doesn’t mean I can’t get the deal and pass it along to Salvation Army to help an angel that asked for a jacket or fleece. Consider involving your children in learning to help out someone who needs a bit of help. “Adopt” a child their own age and gender and let them learn to purchase within a budget, finding great deals and supporting someone less fortunate. As a disclaimer, however, I don’t think it’s good to show children the people they are helping. All people deserve respect and parading a family on hard times in front of the family helping them is lacking in basic decency. My opinion.

I hope you’ll also remember the true meaning of Christmas as you shop ‘til you drop. It isn’t about gifts and parties and glitzy lights. It’s about a baby. We celebrate this baby’s birth at Christmas. If you are curious to know more, please reach out and ask! It’s the best gift you can ever receive!

To all the YC Magazine readers — Merry Christmas! I hope your holidays are happy and bright and filled with love. yc Beth Covington is a life-long York County resident with a passion for nice people and ranch dressing.

Contact her at beth.covington@gmail.com.

PAGE 17

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

Photography View Finder

By Mike Baker

AI: Today Adobe Photoshop, tomorrow SkyNet?

The author, playing around with AI filters in Photoshop 22.0. (Photos: Mike Baker)

I

n late October of this year, Adobe, via the Creative Cloud, rolled out to its subscribers the Photoshop 22.0 update. This update included new or improved features and performance enhancements. At the core of some of these new features is artificial intelligence, or AI. From what I’ve learned, the term AI was first used in 1956, and it referred to human-like intelligence used by machines or programs to complete given tasks within set parameters. AI is broken down into two levels of development, narrow AI and general AI. I don’t have the scientific chops to pontificate about AI, but what I do understand is that we are in the era of narrow AI; machines use pattern recognition, language processing, machine learning and data recognition to make decisions. With PAGE 18

the next level, or general AI, rather than simply reacting to data, machines and computers will be able to reason and understand within their environment, just as we humans do.

AI in photography software and in cameras has been around for a while. One example would be in-camera scene recognition where the camera makes auto-adjustments based upon a database of hundreds of thousands of images. Adobe is referring to their AI as Adobe Sensei. I want to bring your attention to just one of the new Sensei powered feature of the latest Photoshop update and that feature is what Adobe calls Neutral Filters. This is not a tutorial on how to use the filters, it’s perhaps more of an “editorial” on the new filters. Found under the “Filters” tab in Photoshop, these Neutral Filters are

geared toward editing portraits and it represents a new direction for editing in Photoshop. With Neutral Filters, users can change facial expressions, change the direction that eyes are looking, do age-progressions with both older and younger versions of the portrait, and several other pretty wild and dramatic edits. What makes them wild, at least to me, is that these are pretty much one-click edits and they seem fairly crude.

This type of editing has been available in a few other photo editing programs for quite a while, with ProtraitPro being just one of them.

I spent a little time playing with Neutral Filters and I have to say, it was, well, it was quite amusing. I didn’t want to subject anyone else to this type of embarrassment, so I loaded a portrait of me into Photoshop and gave the Neutral Filters a try. In using these new filters, I didn’t try to finesse them, the settings were all or nothing. I’m sharing with you the original portrait of Mike, the “younger” Neutral Filter Mike, the “older” Neutral Filter Mike, and finally, the “happier” Neutral Filter Mike. You may LOL if you like. And, yes, Adobe does label the settings as young, old, surprised, angry, happier, etc.

Earlier, I mentioned that these filters represent a new direction for Photoshop.

Photoshop users have always been able to make these types of edits, but it was a multitool editing task and required much skill to make the edits convincing and realistic.

ProtraitPro and other software programs have been doing these types of “easy” portrait fixes for quite a while and doing them fairly well, even if users tended to overuse their features resulting in fake looking por-

trait subjects. The Neutral Filters seemed quite crude and not ready for prime time.

In fairness, these Adobe filters are new and some of them are still in beta-versions, but I would have expected better on a feature roll-out such as this.

If you’re a fan of Arnold Schwarzenegger and the Terminator movie franchise, then you already knew where I was going with the SkyNet reference. In Terminator, a fictional organization called SkyNet developed robots equipped with AI. The robots become self-aware and take over the world attempting to eradicate humans. Internet photography forums and photography industry pundits have been blowing up online discussions with how AI will eradicate “real” photography. They may be the same folks who threw shade on camera phone users, I don’t know. Either way, the AI photography horse is out of the barn and it’s here to stay.

It’s up to each person to practice the type of photography and editing that they chose. If the Neutral Filters improve, and they are reliable and repeatable, I’ll certainly use them when applicable. Until they do improve, I’ll probably re-edit old pics of myself just to get a laugh. yc Mike Baker is an awarding-winning photographer whose work has been published by national and regional publications. Mike is an Artist in Residence at the Arts Council of York County and a member of NPS (Nikon Professional Services).

Mike can be reached at mike@mbakerphotographic.com.

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

Astronomy

Looking Up

By Carole Holmberg

Great Conjunction closest since 1623

This Stellarium open source software image shows Jupiter and Saturn as seen through a backyard telescope at 6:15 pm EST on December 21, 2020. Jupiter’s moons from upper left to lower right – Callisto, Io, Ganymede, Jupiter, and Europa; Saturn’s moons from upper left to lower right – Iapetus, background star, Rhea, Saturn, Dione, Tethys, and Titan.

T

he eight planets revolve about the Sun, each at their own velocity depending on their distance from it. A planet that is closer to the Sun moves more quickly because the gravitational force between the two is greater. So, Mercury, the closest planet to the Sun, orbits in 88 days. Earth revolves in approximately 365 days, which we call one year. Neptune, the farthest planet from the Sun, orbits in 165 years. Some people falsely think that the planets all travel at the same speed and that Mercury orbits the Sun more quickly simply because it has less distance to travel. In fact, Mercury has the greatest orbital velocity with an average of 47 km/s and Neptune has the slowest at only 5.4 km/s.

Earth, third planet from the Sun, averages a still-respectable speed of 30 km/s or 67,000 mph.

With all the planets orbiting the Sun at their own speeds, there are bound to be times when planets appear aligned with one another. When two objects meet at their closest in the sky as viewed from

Earth, we say that they are in conjunction. We use the term Great Conjunction, or sometimes Grand Conjunction, to refer to a meeting in the sky of Jupiter and Saturn, the two biggest planets in our Solar System. Because Jupiter orbits the Sun only once every 12 years and Saturn orbits every 29 years, Jupiter only overtakes Saturn every 20 years or so.

The next Great Conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn will be December 21, 2020.

Before this, the last Great Conjunction was on May 31, 2000. The next one will be November 5, 2040.

Our Solar System is shaped like a pancake, with the planets circling within pretty much the same plane. If the Solar System were perfectly flat and the planets’ orbits were all exactly lined up, Jupiter would pass right in front of Saturn every Great Conjunction. However, because planets don’t travel on exactly the same plane, they usually pass a little high or low. All Great Conjunctions are not equal and the one this December will

be especially great – the last time Jupiter and Saturn were this close was in the year 1623! This month, when at their closest, Jupiter and Saturn will be only 0.1 degrees apart. That’s just one-fifth of the diameter of the full moon.

As seen from Earth, in November and early December Saturn is east of Jupiter and follows it through the sky each night.

As Earth rotates from west to east, celestial objects appear to move from east to west minute by minute. In addition, the planets also revolve about the Sun in a counterclockwise direction as viewed with their north poles up. The Solar System, it is theorized, began its existence rotating counterclockwise because most major bodies rotate and revolve that way.

The Sun rotates counterclockwise. All the planets revolve around the Sun counterclockwise. Six of the eight planets rotate that way, the exceptions being Venus, which rotates slowly and clockwise, and Uranus, which is tipped over on its side.

Earth’s Moon and the majority of other

moons also revolve that way.

Because Jupiter orbits the Sun more quickly, it will be slowly catching up to Saturn day by day in early and mid-December. On December 21, Jupiter is closest to Saturn and passes just slightly below the ringed planet.

Jupiter is 5.2 times the distance from the Sun that Earth is, and Saturn is, on average, twice as far away, or 10.4 times the Earth-Sun distance. Because Saturn is so much farther away, it will appear to be about half the size of Jupiter and some 15 times fainter.

Don’t wait until December 21 to start watching these worlds. They’re visible tonight and every clear night, near each other for the rest of 2020. yc Carole Holmberg is the Planetarium Manager at the Museum of York County. She gives planetarium shows each Tuesday – Saturday at 3:30 p.m., with additional shows on Saturdays and school holidays.

Ms. Holmberg can be reached at CHolmberg@chmuseums.org.

PAGE 19

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

Track Talk

The Local Racing Scene

By Stuart Lord

Bubba Sutton: Always giving back

Bubba Sutton’s race car was built in honor of Det. Mike Doty of the York County Sheriff’s Office, who was killed in the line of duty in 2018. (Photo:Bubba Sutton)

I

t’s often said that our life has been planned out when we are conceived.

While that may be true, that life can take different directions, as some may also believe, by events that happen along the route of life. Some can’t handle negative events and find themselves going down a dark hole, while others are so strong their life continues on a upward curve no matter what.

“Bubba” Sutton of York, S.C., is the perfect example of the latter. While some would have given up, that was not the case with the strong willed, very likable Sutton.

PAGE 20

Normally I start these profiles/stories about a driver whose career started in gocarts and progressed right up to full size race cars. Bubba started that exact way until he became the most dominate driver in 2019 at Carolina Speedway. But along the way, his life was not a bowl of cherries. In fact, it’s a wonder he ended up like he did.

Most kids would have given up and could have taken the wrong path in life. His life was filled with separation, a devastating fire which left him near death, and many more obstacles along the way that should have been more than one could overcome.

But that was not the case. Instead, Sutton fought everything along the way, turning out today to be a respected member of his community, a devoted dad, a provider for others in his extended family, a member of the law enforcement community, and most importantly to him, a guide and mentor for his son Grayson, who, at eleven years old, is starting his racing career.

Back in 2019, Bubba dominated the Street Stock division at Carolina Speedway with many wins and top finishes. When Carolina held the $10,000 to win event for the Crate Sportsman, he was driving a car built by Steve Huffsteller at his Extreme Chassis in Rock Hill. Sutton won that race and did something with the money that would show exactly the kind of person he is. In January 2018, Detective Mike Doty, a member of the York Sheriff’s Dept., was shot and killed while on duty. As a member of the Moss Justice Center this affected Bubba, as it did all law enforcement members. But Bubba was determined to keep Mike’s name and memory alive in the community. Sutton put that $10,000 away, and after saving more funds, he and Chris Huffsteller, who had formed Woodshed Racecars and Bodies, built a tribute race car in honor of Doty. The number, 809 was Mike’s badge number, and to further the tribute to Mike, Bubba made tee shirts

with the cars image to honor the fallen officer, with proceeds going to the Mike Doty Fund.

There is so much more to Sutton’s racing we haven’t talked about: Go Carts, Stock 4’s, Crate Sportsman, the many tracks he has raced at and so many friends made along the way. A work related injury put his racing on hold; it hopefully will be healed by the time the 2021 season starts, and he will be back in the 809. In the meantime, it’s all about his son and his racing. And like so many others I have written about, his journey could never happen without the help of so many sponsors. Helping out are Elite Carpentry & Construction, Badcock, Lewis Law Firm, Darrell’s Auto & Body, J&K Tires, Boney Insurance, Melanie Outlaw Realty, and Miller Auto & Salvage I could write so much more about Bubba’s racing, but this is more about the man and his forever giving to others. He and Chris will continue to build cars for others when possible. It has been a real pleasure to meet and talk with Bubba and his beautiful girlfriend Cynthia. Through them, I continue to meet many more fantastic people, both from racing and other walks of life. yc Stu Lord is a former NASCAR track manager, writer and talk show host living in York. His email address is relichunting@gmail.com.

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

Law Navigating The Law

By Walter Heinsohn

Christmas on display

depositphotos.com the overweight fellow in the corner (Round John Version).

The students were just beginning to admire each other’s art, and the teacher was just beginning to grade the art, when the principal walked in, spotted the nativity drawing, and said, “This is religious, we can’t have religious art in school.” He tells the teacher to take it down. Your daughter is upset but is absolutely crushed when the teacher said, “Your art was supposed to be about winter. I understand that Christians believe Jesus was born in late December but this isn’t really about winter. There’s no snow or ice in your drawing. I am going to have to give you an F.” Your daughter is inconsolable, calls you at lunch and tells you what happened. You call the principal and he agrees to meet with you and the teacher as soon as school is over that afternoon. The principal explains, “We have separation of church and state. We’re not allowed to have displays of religious art on school property. I’m sorry. That’s the way it is in America now.” You attempt to persuade the teacher to grade the paper differently arguing, “What’s more winter than Christmas and if not for the nativity there would be no Christmas, nor would there be a Santa which, by the way, is Spanish for ‘Saint’ and doesn’t that blur that separation of church and state thing a little?” But the teacher won’t budge from the F. The issues are: Is the principal correct in that your daughter’s nativity drawing cannot be displayed in school and is the teacher correct in giving your daughter an F? The answer to these questions is easy: The principal and teacher are wrong. There is a section in the South Carolina Code (§59-1-435), which meets all first amendment rulings made by the U.S. Supreme

Court thus far, called the “Religious Viewpoints Anti-discrimination Act.” A school has to treat a student’s voluntary expression of a religious viewpoint (and “expression” includes a work of art), in the same manner that it treats a secular viewpoint.

Walter Heinsohn is a lawyer who has served the area since 1985. You can reach him at 803-366-5181.

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H

ere’s this month’s legal dilemma. You have a child in the fifth grade. Your child’s class will have the honor of displaying an art project in the school cafetorium for the month of December. The teacher decides that each student shall do their own work of art and each work of art shall have a winter theme.

Students are to use a medium used in art class that semester. That included watercolor, pastel chalk, colored ink and charcoal drawings. Each student’s art work will be graded and serve as a sort of final exam for art class.

Because of time constraints, students were permitted to do their projects at home over the Thanksgiving break. Your child is excited about the project because she has a talent for drawing and, having a yen for the spotlight, enjoys the opportunity to let the whole school know it. Monday morning the class assembled in the cafetorium to hang their pictures. Even though we don’t get a lot of snow in York County, the artwork was heavy on snow. There were snowcapped mountains, skiing, ice skating, ice fishing, icicles, ice road truckers, penguins, polar bears, snow men and a couple Santa and his reindeer. But your child’s drawing is a standout -- and well it should be. With a true artist’s temperament, she tore up three or four attempts and threw herself on her bed in anguish at least a dozen times before she was satisfied.

Her finished product was a nicely done nativity scene with all the usual characters: the baby Jesus, Mary, Joseph, three wise men, shepherds, cattle, star and a choir of angels. Not included were some of the more quirky characters (bear with me if you’ve heard this before): The airplane going across the sky (Pontius the Pilot), and

Also, religious expression must be judged by the same academic standards by which secular expressions are judged. “A student may not be penalized or rewarded based on the religious content of his work.”

Your daughter was looking forward to having her talent on display in the school.

Imagine her delight in the world-wide attention her art will receive when news gets out that a judge ordered the principal to put her nativity drawing back on the cafetorium wall with all the others and ordered the teacher to grade it based on the artistic talent displayed and not the content of her art.

She is sure to get an A. Merry Christmas to all and with best wishes that your 2021 be worth painting and hanging on the wall. yc

Before & After 4 Tx

Jewell Family & Elder Medicine PA 1147 Ebenezer Road, Rock Hill, SC 29732 (803) 274-6646 www.jewelleldermedicine.com ©2019 Cynosure LLC. All rights reserved. ThreeForMe is a trademark of Cynosure, LLC. Hologic, Inc. owns exclusive rights to photography. Use of photography without written permission of Hologic is prohibited.Model used for illustrative purposes only. Patient results will vary. AMP_2321

©2019 Hologic, Inc. All rights reserved. ThreeForMe is a trademark of Cynosure, LLC. Hologic, Inc. owns exclusive rights to photography. Use of photography without written permission of Hologic is prohibited.Model used for illustrative purposes only. Patient results will vary. AMP_2321

PAGE 21

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

Wordsmithing

Articulate Creativity

By Beth Crosby

A dash of humor spices up December

D

o you remember playing Mad Libs™ as a kid? The game asked for a part of speech or specific item, such as a kind of bird, to complete a story the respondent knew nothing about. What resulted was a nonsensical and often humorous read.

Every sheet was fun, and I remember using my best vocabulary choices before giggling at my creation. Laughter gives us a break, lets us breathe deeply, and releases tension.

Decembers are often busy and stressful. This year, the pandemic heightens our feelings.

I’m offering you what is, unquestionably, the best medicine for this season: laughter.

Remember good times and stories?

Joy Smith is one of the funniest, most joyful people I know! She always leaves me with a chuckle, and I feel better after

talking to or seeing her.

Naturally, I thought about her book Tell Me A Story, I’ll Bake You A Cake when I considered funny stories and Christmastime.

Joy’s book is a compilation of recipes collected over her lifetime with entertaining stories introducing each. The recipe that reminded me of Christmas is for red velvet cake, which you can see her daughter eating on the cover. Red velvet cakes at Christmas were long a tradition in my family.

If you live in Fort Mill, you might recognize Joy’s name. She wrote a food column, “Cooking With Joy,” published in the Fort Mill Times for 10 years.

Traditional treats make holidays special

Joy includes many holiday recipes, and I thought I’d share a few Christmas treats for you to crave: The long trip to Peppermint Ice Cream, the gift of Aunt

Flora’s Christmas Cookies, the ecstasy of Baked Alaska, and the demand for June’s Jets.

In “Peppermint Ice Cream,” Joy shares how she loved visiting her aunt’s farm in August, but she hated the long trip, made worse by her father’s notorious slow driving.

“The only thing that helped me cope was knowing that we’d be stopping at a Howard Johnson restaurant…famous for their homestyle ice cream — all 28 flavors. My favorite flavor was peppermint, which had pieces of peppermint candy in it,” Joy writes.

She continues, “I had given up hope of ever tasting the real thing again.

Then to my surprise, an old cookbook had a recipe for peppermint ice cream.

I decided to try it with very low expectations for success…the recipe sounded too easy.”

Peppermint ice cream is ideal for Christmas, and Joy shares her simple recipe.

Tastes and smells bring memories alive

803-329-1188 PAGE 22

Reading Tell Me A Story, I’ll Bake You A Cake again brought back memories of a simpler time. Her preambles to the recipes, like the Great Macaroni Dish that feeds an army and the casseroles served at the church her father pastored, gave me the sense of being at church fellowships as a child.

I relived family reunions before all of the good cooks of my grandparents’ generation died. At least one of my aunts makes a sweet potato casserole, and another brings a green bean casserole.

See, casseroles formed who I am today!

Good food and good times go together!

I told Joy, and I’ll tell you, this is a great book for cooks and non-cooks. I enjoyed the stories as much as the recipes, even for foods such as congealed salad that made me cringe. Remember when those were the rage?

Joy’s mom collected recipes too, jotting them down on anything handy.

“Her recipe box was stuffed with miscellaneous scraps of paper, box tops, and even church registration cards!”

Joy divulged.

“The recipes are simple and non-threatening to the novice cook. As long as you’re not looking for recipes for turnips, brussels sprouts, or liver, you’ll find a recipe to

suit any occasion,” she says.

Food evokes happiness and connection

For people born in the 1960s and ’70s, this book is an ideal memento and resource. In addition to humorous recollections, Joy tells poignant stories. One of my favorites in this category introduces Aunt Flora’s Christmas Cookies.

You can contact Joy to get a copy for your children and grandchildren and surprise holiday visitors with a cheese souffle for breakfast.

If you’re older, you can revel in reliving the past alongside Joy climbing mimosa trees and chasing cows on her uncle’s farm. She offers signed copies if you email her at joysmith641@gmail.

The book is also available from Amazon.

Add a dash of laughter and revisit past holidays this season. Take Joy’s suggestion. Spend time with loved ones and friends. She included at least one cake you can bake. Take it from me, a non-cook!

If all else fails, play a word game!

Winter (noun) are best (verb) when (group of people) appreciate each other and (verb)! yc Beth Crosby is a freelance editor and writing coach. She works with individuals, publishers, and businesses. Contact her at Beth@EditorBeth.com.

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

PAGE 23

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

Music

Tuning In To York County

By Tim Jones

Things in Christmas songs that don’t apply here depositphotos.com

T

here is an Alabama song called “Christmas in Dixie.” You would think it would be all about the South, of which York County is a part, but no! The song starts out talking about “right now in New York City,” then moves on to “out in California.” Chicago and Motown get mentioned, too. Then the song speaks of “it’s snowing in the pines.” Snowing in the pines? Really? Where? I’ve spent more than 60 Christmases in Dixie and I don’t remember it ever snowing in the pines at Christmas, not in York County. Oh, we got a little sleet on Christmas about 50 years ago, but no snow. Christmas in Dixie? Maybe northwest of here, in the mountains. Snowing in the pines? Not in York County.

We really can’t blame the songwriters. After all, cold weather and its various accoutrements seem to conjure up romanticized images of Christmas. You’ll never hear Nat King Cole sing about things relating to the overcast, tepid weather we get here in York County in December. In fact, there are many things mentioned in Christmas songs that are not part of a York County Christmas experience. Here are a few other things mentioned in Christmas songs that don’t apply to York County.

“Dashing through the snow.” Snow is slick, and since we don’t get much of it in York County, we don’t know how to dash through it. Some folks who move here from up North are critical of this and insist, “These people down here don’t know how to drive in this stuff.” They say it with an air of superiority because, according to them, up North they drive in snow 362 days out of the year. In York County, though, we don’t drive in snow 362 days out of the PAGE 24

year because we don’t have snow 362 days out of the year. We are quite content not to have to drive in the snow 362 days out of the year. On the three or four days of the year when we do have snow, we drive in it as little as possible.

In fact, another tradition we YC’ers do that Northerners don’t understand is we go to the grocery stores the night before a predicted snowfall and buy all the bread and milk. Then, having carefully ensured that our movie streaming service is paid up to date, when the snow comes the next day, we stay home and watch movies and eat bread and drink milk. This is how we cope with snow in the South. For Northerners who do not understand this and wish to criticize, please refer to YC area bumper stickers that read, “We Don’t Care How You Did It up North.”

“In a one-horse open sleigh.” This is not Kentucky. They have lots of horses in Kentucky. This is York County. We don’t have very many horses in York County. It’s a good thing the song doesn’t mention a two or three horse sleigh. We might be in trouble. We probably could come up with one horse, though. On the three days of the year that we have snow, we could let him pull a sleigh. That is, of course, if we had a sleigh.

“To see if reindeer really know how to fly.” Yeah, well, we don’t have any reindeer here in York County. I can tell you, though, if you’re any kind of deer-shaped object and you’re coming through York County in the middle of hunting season, you better know how to fly. You might want to wear a bullet-proof vest, too. Otherwise, you’ll end up with your head over somebody’s fireplace.

“Chestnuts roasting on an open fire.” There aren’t many chestnut trees in York County. Pecan trees, yes. Walnut trees, yes. Chestnut trees, no. With no disrespect intended toward chestnut trees, walnut trees or pecan trees, the nuts we like most in York County don’t even grow on trees at all. They grow in the ground.

And while that whole roasting on an open fire thing seems to be a rather pleasant, romantic notion, we prefer to put our ground-grown nuts in a big pot of salt water and cook them over a natural gas fire. Hmmm. It makes you wonder. If Nat King Cole had been from York County, would he have sung “peanuts boiling on a propane burner?”

“A turkey and some mistletoe help to make the season bright.” This line has always bothered me. Probably every person in York County has hung mistletoe at some time or other in hopes of either giving that special someone a kiss or getting a kiss from that special someone. I could understand if this line were “a significant other and some mistletoe,” but a turkey and some mistletoe?

Tell me, how lonely do you have to be to want to get romantic with a turkey? In fact, I think there are laws against this sort of thing, and if there aren’t, there should be. And how desperate do you have to be to use mistletoe on the turkey? Did dinner and a movie not work? Did the turkey tell you that she wanted to be “just friends” with you and try to introduce you to a nice chicken she knew? And if you are successful with the turkey with this mistletoe ruse, how does it make your season bright? If you are unsuccessful, will your season be dim? Maybe we could change this line to “a turkey and some mistletoe mean I’m a desperately lonely person.”

“Me, I Want a hula hoop.” This story points out how we do things a little different in York County, and particularly in Western York County. Hula hoops were the rage back in 1958 when Alvin and the Chipmunks won three Grammys for “The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don’t be Late).” Every kid wanted a hula hoop. I’m guessing one of my older brothers or sisters must have wanted one, too, because we had a hula hoop lying around our yard in Sharon for a number of years. Hula Hoops were kind of cool, because if one placed the hoop around one’s waist and began some semblance of the Hawaiian Hula Dance, one could keep said hoop aloft for a considerable amount of time.

The store-bought hula hoops for kids of which Alvin sang were lightweight, colorful, plastic hoops 28 inches in diameter. The hoops were made by Wham-O and cost $1.98. I’m also guessing that my Dad, Cliff Jones, must have decided to cheat Wham-O out of 16 bits, because our hula hoop was unmistakably homemade. Our hula hoop was not colorful, it was not 28 inches, and it was not lightweight. In fact, our hula hoop looked suspiciously like the heavy, black plastic pipe with which our house was plumbed. That’s because our hula hoop was made from the

same heavy, black plastic pipe with which our house was plumbed. Obviously, there was a section of pipe left over from the plumbing and my Dad thought, “Wow! This will make a great Hula Hoop! I’ll give this to the kids, and I can save a dollar and ninety-eight cents!” I’m guessing the pipe was a little long, and I’m guessing Dad didn’t want to cut it to length, either. After all, one never knew when a pipe around the house might freeze and burst on one of our three snow days a year and the hula hoop would have to be pressed into service as a water supply line.

I’m not sure the exact diameter of Dad’s homemade hula hoop, but I imagine about three sumo wrestlers could fit comfortably inside it. I’m not sure of its exact weight, either, but I imagine it could have served and maybe actually did serve as the anchor on the USS Constitution. The coup de grace on Dad’s homemade hula hoop, though, was the way he joined the two ends of the pipe together to form the hoop. He inserted a piece of heavy metal pipe into the ends of the heavy plastic pipe and used two protruding heavy-duty metal screw clamps to keep it all together.

Even if one could successfully keep that wide, heavy monstrosity of a hula hoop aloft for a few hulas, the pipe clamps and screws would beat you to death. People would see us Jones children around town with great bruises about our torsos. “Oh, my goodness! You must have been in a bad accident,” the good people of the town of Sharon would exclaim. “No, I’ve been doing a little hula hooping with Dad’s homemade hula hoop,” we Jones kids would reply. So, me- I don’t want no hula hoop. At least, not the Western York County variety.

But you know what? Aside from a few bruises from a homemade hula hoop, I have great childhood Christmas memories in York County. I also have great adult Christmas memories as an adult, and I wouldn’t trade my memories of York County Christmases for anything.

I’m hoping to add a few more great memories this holiday season. Here’s hoping you add some great YC memories yourself this holiday season. Y’all have a holly, jolly YC Christmas! yc Tim Jones is owner of Woody’s Music in Rock Hill and co-owner of Woody’s Music in Tega Cay.

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

Great American Cleanup 2020 From June 1st-October 18th, 2020 York County Staff and Residents conducted cleanups totaling 32,622lbs and recycled 9,672,350lbs 2,100 recycling tote bags were distributed 2,208 recycling bins were distributed 750 tarp/bungee kits were distributed

A Daughter’s Love Abiding Presence Lutheran Church Alexander Family Allen Tate Realty Allison Creek HOA Alpha Omega Altura Construction Group Anne Springs Close Greenway April Hershey ASCG-Hiking Club ASCG-The Haigler Club Atticus Goodwin Bailiwick HOA BASF Corporation Baxter Trail Club Baylei Brooklyn Bill & Susan Morgan Bob Beck Bobby Baker Bowling Green Presbyterian Boy Scout Troop 137 Boyd Hill Residents Brandy Sherer Briarcliff Residents Brookstone Apartments BSA Pack 1280 BSA Troop 333 BSA Troop 349 Buford Court Residents Bullock Creek Fire Department Camillia’s Angels Carolinas Dream Team Catawba Cultural Center Catawba Lodge #56 Catawba Nuc Neighbor Catawba Nuclear Station Catawba Riversweep Volunteers Catawba Senior Center Celebration Place Church Channing Park HOA Cherry Place Farm Chuck Herring City of Rock Hill City of Tega Cay City of York Clover Vet Coltharp, Inc. Community Pride Corner Roost Courtney Hastings Cub Scout Pack 237 Delta Deta Sorority Dillon Earl Diversey

Domtar-Earth Choice Ambassadors Donald Poole Doris Thomas Donna Maien Douglas Cunningham EAA Chapter 961 Ebenezer Animal Hospital Eden Farm Elizabeth Becknell Emory Woodruff Environmental Education Liaisons Epiphany Home School Evenly Parsons F3 Rock Hill Fair Oaks HOA Fairfax Farm Faith Funderburke Realty FIA Finley Road Residents Flashes Fireworks Flint Hill St. Residents Forest Lake Drive Residents Frank Wetzel Project.com FT Mill Moose Lodge 1240 Gary Farris Gethsemane Church Girl Scout Troop 1984 Glaza Chiropractic Center Gloria Piccalo Gretchen Benner Hanson Aggregates Heather Eident Heather Osborne Hillcrest Baptist Hilltop Diner Holland Springers HOA Hollis Lakes/Twin Lakes Residents Hopewell Road Residents In Honor of RH McCarter In Loving Memory of Jake Michael Peterson In Memory of Johnnie In Memory of Misty India Hook Residents Interstate Solutions Jake Sarna Jamie Levesqne Jaz and Company Jean Carter Jill Winter Jim Jackson JJ Mattingly Kathy Thompson Katie Marciniak Keep York County Beautiful

Keith Sanders Kelly Williamson Kevin Vita Kindra Williams Kings Mtn. State Park KMCUMC Men’s Club Leadership York County Marsha McCarthy Melrose Drive Residents Mt. Gallant Elementary Myra Montgomery Nation Ford Chemical Company Nation Ford High School Nation Ford HS MCJROTC Neely’s Creek Road Residents New Hope Carolinas New-Indy Noosa Pest Management Northwestern HS Air Force JROTC Northwestern HS Enviro Club Notable Lane Residents Oakdale Presbyterian Church Oakland Baptist Church Oerlikon Balzers Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Orchards Romeos Oxco Pat’s Properties Pepper Ridge Apartments Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Pioneer Road Residents Pressley Melton Pretty in Pink Divas Ragin Lane Residents Rapture Ready Church Rebecca Gaston River Hills Community Assn.

Rock Grove AME Zion Church Rock Hill Aquatics Rock Hill Clean & Green Rock Hill Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Rock Hill High School AFJROTC Rose of Sharon Brotherhood Sam Strickland Sandlapper Parrot Head Club SC Hwy Patrol Sedgewood Drive Residents South Pointe HS AFJROTC Southern Cottage & Gifts St. Anne Troop 277 St. John’s UMC Quest St. Luke II Baptist Church Stephen Cooley Group Stewart’s Auto

thank you

Substation II Susan Woods TakeOvaLancaster Taylor Family 4 Hawk Team Jefferson Team Jim Burns Family Tega Cay Chiropractic Tega Cay Riversweep The Adams Family The Ainslie Family The Busy Bees The Crossing Residents The Davis Family The Fellas, Inc. The Lions Club The Manning Family The Radford Family The Rekitt Family The Scoggins Family The Sommer Family The Wallace Family Tirzah ARP Tirzah Presbyterian Church Town of Clover Town of Fort Mill Town of Smyrna Toya Mobley Union Baptist Church Union Baptist Church of Filbert USPS-Catawba Village Green Residents Wellsbrook Residents Westminster Catawba Christian School William Burd William Cureton Wilma Scoggins Winthrop University Athletic Training Winthrop University Close Scholars Winthrop University Skydiving Club Winthrop University SOAR Wood Forest HOA WU Trio SSS Leadership Xylem Residents York County Code Enforcement York County Collection & Recycling York County Environmental Compliance York County Library York F3 York High School Football Team York Parks & Recreation Dept.

Zinker Road Volunteers

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yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

Photo Gallery York County Scrapbook Prepared by Nancy Sambets, Director of Archives

Holiday cheer

T

he holiday season generally covers the time between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. To get into the holiday spirit people may spend time shopping for gifts, hanging decorations, sending greeting cards, prepping for holiday meals, enjoying vacations and making lists for Santa. Take a look at holiday cheer from years past. yc Nancy Sambets is the Director of Archives at the Historical Center of York County in York. She has a master’s degree in museum studies from the University of South Carolina and has been employed as an archivist with the Culture & Heritage Museums since 2001. Contact her at nsambets@chmuseums.org or 803-818-6766.

Hope A. Workman sent this jolly Santa postcard from Gastonia, NC on December 24, 1919 to Mrs. Jane Smith (1833-1923) care of her son Walter Smith (1872-1954) of Clover.

Mary Alice Sifford Collection. Courtesy of the Historical Center of York County, SC.

This “Christmas Greetings “postcard stamped De cember 21, 1923 includes a poem to convey the holiday spirit from Katie Belle and Martha Jackson to their cousin Mary Alice Sifford (1917-1992) of Clover. Mary Alice Sifford Collection. Courtesy of the Historical Center of York County, S.C.

“ Two Weeks’ Holiday ”, The Yorkville Enquirer, December 11, 1897. Much like today, students enjoyed a two week vacation during the holiday season.

Courtesy of the Historical Center of York County, S.C.

In 1959, the Stine family sent season’s greetings on their holiday card featuring a festive photo of Neel and Vance with outdoor decorations. It is signed V. Marshall Stine Jr. (19221979), Vera “Bebe” Sifford Stine (1927-2013), Neel and Vance. Mary Alice Sifford Collection.

Courtesy of the Historical Center of York County, S.C.

PAGE 26

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

Grist Cousins advertised Christmas candy, fruits, and fireworks at low seasonal prices in the December 18, 1897 issue of The Yorkville Enquirer. Courtesy of the Historical Center of York County, SC. This 1958 family holiday card from Gene, Mary and Jean Kay Sifford features a jolly photo of three year old Jean Kay in front of a fireplace. Mary Alice Sifford Collection. Courtesy of the Historical Center of York County, S.C.

“Christmas Festivities”, The Yorkville Enquirer, December 30, 1899. York Cotton Mill ensured that their employees enjoyed a delicious holiday meal by shutting down the plant and distributing turkeys. Courtesy of the Historical Center of York County, S.C.

Letters to Santa published in the December 20, 1912 issue of The Yorkville Enquirer reveal that children over a hundred years ago wished for toys and candy. Courtesy of the Historical Center of York County, S.C.

This undated photo of holiday decorations at the Lewis Family house, located at 105 E. Liberty Street in York, spread cheer to all passersby. Frances Lewis Collection. Courtesy of the Historical Center of York County, S.C.

PAGE 27

yc The Great Outdoors December 2020

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

Go Play Outside

By Cameron Shook

2020 will define the future of the outdoors

Solitary adventures will be harder to come by as more and more people discover the great outdoors. (Photos by: Cameron Shook)

T

here’s an oft repeated phrase, “the new normal.” It’s been a part of conversations on masks, social distancing, temperature checks, not gathering in large crowds, etc. Perhaps unsurprisingly, our new-normal of the outdoors is something we all need to be prepared for. Whatever your beliefs are about Covid-19, it’s an inescapable fact that this year has forced more Americans into the outdoors than ever before. Shocking to many, they enjoyed it. And it’s possible we may see more people whenever we go outside, well, anywhere.

To put things into perspective, I started digging into some numbers that the National Park Service has published regarding visitation statistics. Let’s look at Yellowstone National Park, one of the crown jewels of our country’s public lands. For the first half of the year, overall visitation was down quite significantly due to travel restrictions and purposeful limiting of visitors. Once the restrictions were lifted though, they saw a 50% increase in traffic month over month compared to 2019’s figures, and that already was a busy year. Locally, at least, I know when I’ve gone out to my usual spots around York County, I’m seeing more cars in parking lots and steady streams of people hiking, fishing, paddling, and just being outside. It’s amazing when sporting events, concerts, bars, movie theaters, and festivals get canceled just how many people are lookPAGE 28

ing for something to do.

On the one hand, there’s a lot of good that comes from giant swaths of the population who’ve never been exposed to the wonders of the outdoors suddenly discovering it. Advocacy for protecting existing parks and for creating new ones is largely based on how much usage there is. So even if they do literally nothing else but clog up your favorite hike, there is a benefit to more people using your favorite trail. But hopefully, these people help pay money into the parks, advocate for protection and benefits, and add power to our voice when it comes to getting things done. It is by the will of the people that the wheels of government are put into motion, so the more the better.

The drawbacks, though, are complicated and numerous. Crowds and lines -- the likes of which are usually reserved for theme parks -- are being reported across the country. I’ve seen accounts where the Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte, one of the most popular hikes in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, created lines of cars parked off the road for 1 mile in both directions from the parking lot -- in the middle of the week. Those crowds and their usage are also stretching to the breaking point facilities already inadequate and in need of maintenance. The less conscientious visitors also have increased trash and litter to the point where some parks are completely overrun

with garbage. This is the antithesis of what I go outside for in the first place; I want solitary, untouched experiences. Those are going to be harder to find.

Another change is something more fundamental: the gear and clothing we use is in higher demand than ever before and supply chains haven’t even recovered from Covid, much less the increased sales. While the short term is good for outdoor store owners, I’m hearing that low stock of shoes and clothing is going to quickly be the norm.

Kayaks and bicycles had a bit of a run this past summer, with none on the shelves anywhere you went. Kayaks are bouncing back a bit quicker, since many are made in the USA, but anything manufactured overseas is continually seeing delivery dates get pushed further and further back. So, if you need a new pair of hiking boots and find a pair, I’d suggest picking them up while you can.

So, for the diehards that have been spending all their lives in the outdoors, how do we cope with the new normal? First -and this is something I struggle with every time -- we cannot be bitter. The fact is our public lands are just that; for the public.

While I may know every ripple and rock on our stretch of the Catawba River, it isn’t right to consider it “mine” and all these other people intruders. Second, we need to be willing to share expertise with the people we meet, but not be condescending when

doing it. “Leave No Trace” principles will be more important than ever but screaming at people for not following them may not be the best way to teach them. If you see someone obviously holding a canoe paddle wrong and struggling to make any headway, kindly show them the correct way; at one point, we were all babes in the woods, and we were thankful of any helpful hints and tricks that were shared with us. Third, when the crowds and suffocating masses of humanity get to be too much, maybe it’s time for you to explore places you’ve previously neglected. Maybe the Broad River will help you find the solitude you’re looking for -- or the Pacolet, the Enoree, or the Congaree.

As we wrap up 2020, and hope for a better 2021, I just want to encourage everyone to find a new sense of adventure for the year ahead. Whatever our new normal is, I hope we’re able to make more of our days than ever before. From the Shooks to you and yours, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. yc Cameron Shook is an avid outdoors enthusiast who has more outdoor experience than most people twice his age. Cameron is also an avid photographer whose images have been seen in YC Magazine for several years. You can contact Cameron through camshuck@gmail.com. You can locate other columns and comments by Cam at www.shookscamphere.com or follow him on Instagram @shookscamphere.

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

yc A Dog’s Life December 2020

Pawprints On Our Heart

By Lauren Paige Powell

The power of love this holiday season

M

aybe you’re thinking of adding a four-legged friend to your family and the holidays are just around the corner. With everyone on vacation from work and school, the family will have a little more time to get to know their new addition.

I want to discuss the impact of adoption, rescuing and fostering. If you have ever visited the shelters or rescue organizations and stopped just long enough to make eye contact with any of the dogs that are behind those kennels, you will know what I am talking about. It’s those dogs’ eyes that tell a story; a story that man could never understand. A story that is so deep and so powerful that it would take your breath away.

Most of these dogs are neglected, abandoned, starved, beaten, used as bait dogs, run over by cars, dragged by trucks, the list goes on and on. I volunteered at our local shelter a few years ago and one dog came in and the owner had cut its tongue out.

Another owner had pulled the dog’s teeth out to use as a bait dog so she couldn’t fight back when she was being mauled by fighting dogs. Think about the most horrific situation and it has happened to most of these dogs. Just like humans have a past, so do these dogs. Humans can talk about their past and I am here to tell you that these dogs communicate as well. It’s a matter of watching, listening, and knowing what their body language is telling you.

Just like humans, some dogs are more damaged than others. Some humans drink or take medications to cope with their pain.

Some dogs growl or cower down when someone walks by. Some dogs nip out of fear or hide under the bed. Some dogs get scared when fireworks go off -- you never know, that particular dog could have been shot at in his past. They are communicating to you in their language. Everyone has a story.

I have heard so many of my clients say, “There are so many dogs at the shelter, how will I know which dog is right for my family?” or “I don’t want a shelter dog, I don’t know where they came from.” To address the first question, when you walk into that shelter, humane society, or rescue organization and you spend time with a few of the dogs that pique your interest, that dog will choose you. Secondly, nobody knows their past, and most likely you never will.

But always know, those dogs are looking for love just like we are. It’s that simple.

depositphotos.com Those dogs often love bigger because they know what it’s like to be starved, abused, homeless and neglected.

I also want to emphasize my favorite group, the older dogs and those with disabilities. Those who have lost an eye, or a leg, or they have been run over or dragged by a truck. Someone may have thrown them out of a car window, or they have been found on the highway late at night.

Those dogs need love, too. Just like you and I. Older dogs are typically the first to be euthanized in a crowded shelter if they

are not adopted in a timely manner. A little secret for you --those older dogs are typically house trained, are well mannered, have basic obedience and are typically not “problematic dogs.” They are calmer and less energetic than younger dogs and contrary to what you have heard, you can always teach an old dog new tricks.

Adopting a disabled dog can be rewarding in so many ways. You are most likely saving him from being euthanized and providing an opportunity for you and your family to be rewarded and inspired with

unconditional love. Special needs pets are incredibly inspiring to be around, they are fiercely loyal and can give you a boost of confidence and courage when you have to face your own challenges in life.

Every single dog I have ever owned has been a rescue. I have saved their lives. You could save a life and you might be surprised that in turn, you are being saved, too. yc Lauren Paige Powell is a canine behavioral specialist and the owner/operator of Gallop and Growl. For more information visit www.

GallopAndGrowl.com.

PAGE 29

yc Nutrition & Food Safe December 2020

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

Your Food, Your Kitchen, And You

By Angela P. Forbes, MS, RDN, LD

Healthy eating during the holidays

Depositphotos.com

I

hesitantly decided to write an article about healthy eating during the holidays. I’ve written and talked about this for many years as have many others

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in the health care and wellness world. The recommendations are the basically the same and it just kind of seems redundant.

But this year a couple of things have prompted me to write the proverbial eating healthy during the holidays article.

One, we’re living through the pandemic, and two, I’ve been teaching diabetes management classes. The pandemic has had many of us working remotely and maybe feeling stuck at home. Thus, some of us find ourselves eating more — total food, larger portions, and higher fat and sugary foods. We may have also found ourselves sitting more. There have been many days I find myself working on past the time that I would normally get off from work.

The main objective of the diabetes management class I’m teaching is to emphasize the importance of self-management and strategize ways to do so. For many folks, food and eating are big challenges – at any time during the year. But we discuss managing eating specifically during family gatherings and holidays as these can be particularly stressful for those managing diabetes.

However, we don’t have to have diabetes while considering how to eat healthy eating during the holidays. First let’s consider what healthy eating means and our eating patterns in ‘non-holiday’ times. For the general population, we are referring to the basics, using MyPlate as a guide for balancing the food groups and the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for general health. This boils down to having our plates contain more proportionately plant-based foods — vegetables, whole grains, and fruit — and lean dairy and protein sources. We

want to emphasize daily consumption of nutrient-dense foods while concurrently decreasing those nutrients/foods of which we need less: sodium, sugar, and fat.

And yes, we can consume too much of a good thing. For most Americans, we need to increase plant-based foods. Surveys show that most folks fall far short of the recommendations. We also want to watch our portion sizes. We can eat too much of a good thing!

We want to keep our bodies hydrated with an emphasis on drinking water. Fluid needs are based on sex, weight, activity level and state of health. For simplicity, we can use the age-old recommendation of drinking at least eight, 8-ounce cups per day (64 ounces) to consume a baseline amount of water each day.

Get physical! The recommendations for physical activity are 150 minutes or more per week of moderate activity. This means

example). I am a firm believer in practical and basic lifestyle change. Consider this: If we already have an active lifestyle – regular and consistent activity, and we are making a point to include at least three vegetable and two fruit servings in our diet every day; if we drink at least eight cups of water every day and keep portion sizes to recommended servings; then we will be able to eat a piece of pie on Thanksgiving Day and thoroughly enjoy and appreciate it!

Quick tips:

• Bring tossed salad, fruit salad, and cooked or raw vegetables for sides and snacks.

• Serve lean cuts of meat — turkey/ chicken breast, loin cuts — baked, broiled, roasted.

• Eat breakfast and have healthy snacks on days when a big dinner is planned.

• Get plenty of sleep as holidays can create stress and unhealthy eating.

Contract I know that it is possible to enjoy the wonderful food of this holiday season and keep my blood sugar stable.

Today, I make a promise to myself to make healthy food choices during this holiday season. I will balance my food intake. I will limit the sweets and desserts I eat. I will avoid grazing between meals. If I drink, I will do so in moderation. I will maintain my activity level. And I will check my blood sugar throughout the day, every day, to make sure that I am within my target ranges.

I promise to enjoy this special time of the year and give thanks for my health, happiness, and the love of my friends and family.

Signature should be able to talk while exercising but not sing. Activity should be spread over at least three days with no more than two days without activity.

I encourage readers to make at least one (needed) change from the general recommendations previously mentioned before Thanksgiving – preferably starting today.

(See the sample contract from the American Association of Diabetes Educators as an

Date Sign and date this contract and place it on your refrigerator or take it with you wherever you go this holiday season. yc Angela P. Forbes, MS, RDN, LD, is the Regional Food Safety and Nutrition Agent at the Clemson University - Cooperative Extension Service offices in York. She strives to bring practical and useful information that is researched-based to the citizens of South Carolina. You can reach her at 803-385-6181.

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

yc Animal Health December 2020

Living With Animals

By Kelly Baete, DVM

Preparing your pet for the holidays

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ith the holiday season nearly upon us, it is time to start preparing ourselves and our pets for the season. The holidays bring people together for football, family, friends, and feasts. For family pets, there are increased hazards present that may result in anxiety, upset tummy, or even an unexpected trip to your veterinarian. Check out these tips to ensure that everyone has a safe, happy, and healthy holiday season.

Plan ahead: Boarding facilities can book

up weeks in advance and require that your pet meet certain health requirements. Vaccinations should be administered a minimum of 1 week prior to boarding for maximum efficacy.

Keep the feast on the table: While it may sound like a good idea to give your pet a special treat, eating people food, especially fatty foods like turkey skin, can result in a serious condition called pancreatitis.

Many foods that are healthy for people can be poisonous to pets. Common toxins pres-

can be poisonous to animals. Lilies are extremely toxic to cats and Poinsettias can cause stomach upset.

Talk to your veterinarian: Your veterinarian may be able to provide you with calming supplements or prescriptions for pets who experience anxiety this time of year. Medications are particularly helpful prior to traveling for pets who become carsick or who may react to fireworks.

Quick action can save lives: Be familiar with the location of the closest 24-hour veterinary facility in your area. Your regular veterinarian may have abbreviated hours around the holidays and sometimes illness occurs when you least expect it.

Don’t forget the reason for the season: It is easy to get stressed out this time of year. Your pet can help you get through the holidays without doing anything special. Petting your dog or cat releases natural endorphins, which will make you feel less stressed. Taking your dog for a walk will get you out of the house and clear your mind. Pet owners are generally happier, healthier, and have lower blood pressure and stress levels thanks to their fourlegged companions. yc

CE

Dr. Kelly Baete is founder and co-owner of Baxter Veterinary Clinic in Tega Cay. She met her husband, Dr. James Doyle, in veterinary school at Purdue University and they live in Fort Mill with their 2 children, 2 dogs, and a cat. Professionally, Dr. Baete enjoys internal medicine, small exotic mammals, ophthalmology, and animal behavior.

In her free time she enjoys reading, riding horses, walking her dogs at the ASC Greenway, and spending time with family and friends.

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S ANIMAL H ROLINA OSP ITA L,L LC

While a photo with Santa can be fun, not all pets are comfortable with the energy of the holidays. (Photo provided)

ent around the holidays include onions, garlic, raisins, chocolate, yeast dough, salt, certain nuts, and an artificial sweetener called xylitol. If you suspect that your pet has ingested something toxic, call Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.

Watch the trash: Dispose of turkey bones and trimmings in a secure container that your pet cannot access. Poultry bones can splinter and bones that become lodged in a pet’s throat or intestinal tract could be life threatening. Rancid food contains bacteria that can cause serious upset stomach.

Visitors can be upsetting for some pets: Some pets can become anxious or frightened by guests, playful children, and all of the hustle and bustle that comes with the holidays. If your pet typically prefers a quiet, calm environment then they may appreciate hunkering down in the solitude of a bedroom with a special treat while family and friends are visiting. Not every pet is comfortable with hugs or being on someone’s lap. If your pet tends to be possessive of food, toys, people, or spaces, be proactive to ensure that everyone has a good holiday.

Removing your pet from situations that could be known to cause anxiety or aggression can help to keep everyone safe.

Entertain your pets: Be sure to provide your pet with plenty of exercise and one-on-one attention – especially on days where you may be expecting visitors. On the morning of the holiday, make time to exercise your pet to wear them out before your guests arrive. If your pet is calmer away from the commotion, be sure to set aside some time for one-on-one attention with your pet each day.

Watch the exits: Make sure you watch your pets closely as guests are coming in and out of your home. An open door or garage may be an invitation for your pet to bolt. Get your pet accustomed to wearing a collar and identification tags. Microchips are a great way to ensure that your pet always has identification and can easily be implanted by your veterinarian. Be sure that your pet’s identification has your most current contact information.

Decorations can be hazardous: Decorations present around the holidays can be interesting for curious pets, especially cats.

Tinsel, ornaments, and decorative corn or gourds can cause blockages in the intestinal tract if ingested. Some decorative plants

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yc Parks & Recreation December 2020

Get Off the Couch!

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

Recreation Departments: Clover Parks & Recreation: 803-222-9493; cloversc.org Fort Mill Parks & Recreation: 803-547-2273; fortmillsc.gov Rock Hill Parks, Recreation & Tourism: 803-329-5620; cityofrockhill.com/prt

By Laurie Helms

Tega Cay Parks & Recreation: 803-548-3516; tegacaysc.org

Where do you get your news?

York Parks & Recreation: 803-648-3742; yorksc.gov

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• depositphotos.com

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ho remembers the time when you could receive the newspaper twice a day, if you subscribed to both the morning and evening papers? Radio was an early news source and then television came along in the 1930s.

Launch forward to today where there are so many options with no waiting time.

You can get it live, and if not live, it can be reported just minutes after it happens.

With so many ways to deliver news to you, the communication of programs, events and services keeps parks. recreation and tourism staff very busy! If you don’t feel like you’re tuned in to this information, let’s think about how you get your news: • Are you a social media junkie? You folPAGE 32

low your friends, right? Why not follow your parks & recreation department?

We all use one or more of the popular platforms. Do a quick search and you’ll find us.

• Do you Google everything? You’ll likely run into our websites at the top of your search results. (And they’re at the top of this column.) Why don’t you bookmark them in your internet browser?

• Are you more oriented to email? Most of our departments now use email services where you can even subscribe to the topics you want to receive (and not receive). Look for these on our websites • Do you get out to buy groceries or run other errands? Or drive to your workplace — for those who currently go into

work? Pay attention to the digital signs at park entrances. They’re often on major roads and can tip you off to activities and events coming soon.

• Are you more traditional? You can still get your local news in print, over the airwaves and via cable, but news outlets offer websites and social media sites, too. More recently, they have mobile apps available. It’s your choice.

More Resources

• Are you the busy parent of a school aged child? Many of us post event and activity flyers to the Peachjar flyer distribution service used by many school districts. So don’t hit your delete button too quickly, because you have email links to these flyers. If you should miss

them, you can also look on the website of your child’s school; just look for the Peachjar icon.

Are you new to the area? Look for a new resident or newcomer’s guide on your government website. In addition, Rock Hill and York County have civics-type courses focusing on services and operations in a casual learning environment.

These courses are enjoyed by long-time residents and newcomers. Check out “Inside Rock Hill” and York County’s “101 Citizen’s Academy”.

Occurring less frequently and/or virtually these days due to COVID-19, parks and recreation departments participate in community events -- health fairs, back-to-school events, etc. And we’re happy to present to groups -- civics organizations, newcomers groups, garden clubs, etc. In fact, as I write this article, I’m looking forward to participating in a virtual community health event later today!

Keep poking around and you’ll find mobile apps, podcasts and more Mobile apps are often used for specific purposes like service or emergency notifications or for festivals and major events. And the City of Rock Hill has recently started a podcast about various city services. It’s available at www. cityofrockhill.com/citycast and on some podcast platforms (search Rock Hill CityCast.)

What’s the best way to reach you to deliver parks, recreation and tourism information? If I’ve missed your preferred information source in this list, please shoot me an email so we can stay in touch and see you soon!

I’m glad that when you get off the couch to visit your local parks, playgrounds and recreation centers, you are stopping by your favorite news rack to pick up a YC Magazine. This makes you an informed citizen. Congratulations!

Of course, there was no need to add YC Magazine to my list — you already know about it! yc Laurie Helms is the Marketing Coordinator for the city of Rock Hill Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department. She can be reached at laurie. helms@cityofrockhill.com.

yc Your Library

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

Check It Out

By Stacy Williams

Reading gets totally cool

T

his winter, York County Library is participating with Zoobean and sponsor Simon & Schuster’s “Books Like Us” program in Beanstack’s Annual Winter Reading Challenge. The Totally Cool Winter Reading Challenge will run December 14, 2020, through January 31, 2021. Winter is a great time to improve family literacy, increase library usage, and snuggle up with a good book. To join the Winter Reading Challenge, register online at yclibrary.org/ wrc, call, or visit any YCL location. If you have registered with Beanstack during one of our previous reading challenges, you do not need to register again. Simply sign in to your account and start tracking your reading progress online beginning December 14. Once you have logged your first five hours, stop by any YCL location

by January 31 to pick up a prize.

You do not have to stop at five hours of reading! For every five hours logged, you will receive one entry to win the Totally Cool Grand Prize. You can earn up to five entries into the drawing. We challenge York County to read at least 1 million minutes as we compete with libraries and schools across the nation for a chance to win 1 of 8 virtual author visits and other prizes, shared among the top-performing libraries and schools. Happy reading and stay safe, York County! #WinterRead2021

Virtual Holiday Programs

Help us spread holiday cheer! The following virtual Library programs are depositphotos.com

a part of the 15th annual ChristmasVilleRockHill.com festival: • Holiday Elf Storytime – Friday, December 4, 10:30 – 11:00 a.m., Kick off the holiday season with a holly, jolly storytime led by “Pixie,” the library elf.

Registration is not required. To watch our live storytime and chat, visit the YCL Facebook Page (facebook.com/ yorkcountylibrary) on December 4 at 10:30 am.

• Porkchop Productions presents “Holly and the Secret Santa” – Monday, December 7 – Friday, December 12, This fast-paced performance puts Holly the Elf, and her imagination, to the test as she races against the clock to come up with a gift for the man who gives so much to so many. Visit the YCL Facebook Page (facebook.com/yorkcountylibrary) on December 7 at 10:00 a.m. and replay it at your convenience until December 12.

• Snow Queen Storytime: Monday, December 14, 10:30 – 11:00 a.m., Kick off the Winter Reading Challenge with a “Frozen” online storytime featuring our favorite “Snow Queen.” Visit the YCL Facebook Page on December 14 at 10:30 a.m.

• Storytime with Mrs. Claus– Thursday, December 17, 6:00 – 6:45 p.m., Join us online for an evening of holiday fun and stories with Mrs. Claus while snuggled up at home in your pajamas. To view this video, visit the YCL YouTube Channel (youtube.com/

yorkcountylibrary) starting December 17 at 6:00 p.m. and replay it at your convenience until December 31.

YCL’s Food Drive

Help spread kindness this holiday season by donating non-perishable food and canned good items to any York County Library branch until December 31, 2020. Items can be dropped off at any York County Library location: Clover, Fort Mill, Lake Wylie, Rock Hill, & York.

Please place all donations into collection boxes inside your local branch. Donations will benefit local area charities and will stay within the community it is donated. Do not forget about our fury friends! York County Library will also be collecting pet food donations.

Get crafty to give back

This December, Take, Make, and (maybe) Donate Crochet kits will be available at the Main Branch in Rock Hill, while supplies last. Crochet a winter item for yourself, a friend, or donate it to a local organization. Kits include yarn, a pattern, and a crochet hook for you to keep and use. You can also donate your handmade item to YCL’s Mitten Tree program. Help area residents have a warmer winter by contributing to our Mitten Tree program. Donate new gloves, scarves, hats or mittens for those in need now through December 31. All items donated will be sent to area shelters throughout York County.

Save the Date: Join York County Reads 2021

YCL is proud to announce its Second Annual York County Reads program for January and February 2021. This exciting community-wide program connects readers across York County as they read the same book at the same time. Our goal is to promote literacy and community engagement. For this year, all ages can read about finding your voice through art. “Piecing Me Together” by Renee Watson and “The Word Collector” Peter H. Reynolds are the two hand-selected titles. Special York County Reads events, a fun-filled Word Week, and a one-of-a-kind community art project is planned. You can also meet the authors

virtually (registration required). Titles read during #yorkcountyreads2021 can also be logged for the Winter Reading Challenge. For more information about York County Reads, please visit yclibrary. org/ycreads.

Library Closings: All York County Library locations will close Thursday, December 24, through Sunday, December 27, 2020 for Christmas. New Year’s Day: All locations will close Friday, January 1, through Sunday, January 3, 2021. yc Stacy Williams is the Marketing Manager of the York County Library. She may be contacted by email at stacy.williams@yclibrary.org.

York County Libraries are located in Fort Mill, Clover, York, Lake Wylie and Rock Hill.

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yc Aging

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

Mobile Pantry Schedule

Successfully Senior

By Deb Pittman

12/14

Jerusalem Baptist Church, 435 Farris Rd., Clover

12/30

Green Pond UMC, 983 Bethel St., Clover

Programs helping seniors

T

he Catawba Area Agency on Aging plans, coordinates, and provides the following local aging services in its multi-county service area including Chester, Lancaster, Union, and York counties. Our primary goal is to promote and develop comprehensive, coordinated: • Information and Referral Services — connecting seniors with regional information/services • Medicare Insurance Counseling Services (SHIP — State Health Insurance Program) — providing impartial Medicare counseling • Ombudsman Services — advocating for residents living in assisted living and/or nursing home facilities • Assessments for In-Home Services assessing seniors for services including Home Delivered Meals (sometimes referred to as meals on wheels) and Homemaker (housekeeping)

• Assessments of Congregate (Senior Center/Meal) Services are currently suspended due to COVID • Caregiver Respite Grant — providing caregivers a break from caregiving • Mobile Food Panty Events — Catawba AAA works with Second Harvest Food Bank, local churches, and dedicated volunteers to host monthly mobile food pantry events — To request a mobile pantry schedule, call 803-329-9670.

Other programs available to older adults include:

www.benefitscheckup.org Benefits Check Up is a program offered by the National Council on Aging. There are over 2,500 benefit programs available nationwide. To find out what benefits programs are available in your area visit the website. You may also contact Benefits Check Up by calling 800-794-6559, Mon-

Aging & Disability Resource Center • • •

Family Caregiver Support Program Long Term Care Options Medicare Counseling Extra Help Programs

• • •

Medication Management Fraud Prevention Information, Referral & Assistance

Chester, Lancaster, Union, York Counties (803) 329-9670 1-800-662-8330 www.Catawba-Aging.com 2051 Ebenezer Road, Rock Hill, SC 29732

day – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. dss.sc.gov The South Carolina Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP) makes it easier for elderly people apply for and get SNAP benefits. You may be eligible for ESAP if household members are • 60 years or older • Do not have earned income • Do not already get SNAP benefits To apply, complete the https://dss. sc.ov/media/1790/dss-form-16176aug-18.pdf and mail it to EASP, South Carolina Department of Social Services, PO Box 100229, Columbia, SC 29202. If you are eligible, you will receive benefits beginning the date your application is received. You will be notified in writing of the decision on your case.

Medicaid for Medicare Enrollees

Medicaid is a health insurance program funded by Federal and State governments that pays costs for certain individuals and families with low income and, in some cases, limited resources. “Dually eligible beneficiaries” generally describe beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare and Medicaid.

The term includes beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Part A and/or Part B and getting full Medicaid benefits and/or assistance with Medicare premiums or cost sharing through the Medicare Savings Program MSP - https://www.medicare.gov/yourmedicare-costs/get-help-paying-costs/ medicare-savings-programs Visit https://www.scdhhs.gov for information about the following assistance programs.

• South Carolina Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) Program: Helps pay Part A, Part B, or both Program premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments -https://www.scdhhs.gov/eligibility-groups/qualified-medicare-beneficiaries-qmb • South Carolina Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) Program: Helps pay Part B premiums - https:// www.scdhhs.gov/eligibility-groups/ specified-low-income-medicare-beneficiaries-slmb-and-qualifying-individuals-qi

Apply for Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Costs by visiting: https://www.ssa.gov/i1020/

PAGE 34

South Carolina Pharmaceutical Assistance Program – 800-763-0059 Welvista is South Carolina Pharmaceutical Program for people under age 65 without any form of health insurance, including Medicaid, Medicare, and Veteran’s health benefits whose household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. Welvista requires a $20 non-refundable application processing fee.

There is never a charge for the medication.

Patients may reapply each year for Welvista services.

United Way’s FamilyWize Drug Card is accepted at most pharmacies across the nation - https://familywize.org/ Low Income Subsidy(LIS) or Extra Help benefit helps eligible Medicare beneficiaries with their Medicare prescription drug plan costs. The Extra Help is estimated to be worth about $5,000 per year. To qualify for the Extra Help, a person must be receiving Medicare, have limited resources and income.

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program and Weatherization Program helps low income families, particularly the elderly, people with disabilities and children by improving the energy efficiency of their homes. is designed to help lone-income families meet their energy costs during tough weather. Visit https:// carolinacommunityactions.org or your county Carolina Community Actions, Inc. office for more information.

• York – 803-329-5195 • Chester – 803-385-5205 • Lancaster – 803-285-2034 • Union – 864-427-0336 The USDA Housing Repair Grant provided grants to elderly very-low-income homeowners to remove health and safety hazards. To qualify, the homeowner must be 62 or older and occupy the house. Senior living in Chester, Lancaster and York counties may contact the Chester Area Office at 803-581-1906 (ext. 4) or Union county at 864-814-2471 (ext. 4) Supplemental Security Income is a program that financially helps low-income aged (65 and older), blind, and disabled people. Contact your local social security office for more information. yc More information about aging and issues important to senior citizens is available at www. aging.sc.gov or by calling Deb Pittman at 803-329-9670

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

December 2020

LAST QUARTER Dec. 7, 7:37 p.m.

NEW MOON Dec. 14, 11:18 a.m.

FIRST QUARTER Dec. 21, 6:42 p.m.

FULL MOON Dec. 29, 10:30 p.m.

PAGE 35

yc magazine... York County’s Entertainingly Informative Magazine

December 2020

Christmas SALE! Hunting • Fishing • Archery • Firearms Name-Brand Clothing & Footwear • Optics • Safes • Ammo • Cutlery Feed & Seed • Carts • SC Concealed Weapons Classes and more!

GIFTS FOR THE OUTDOORSMEN IN EVERYONE Let’s Take it Outside Don’t Know What They Want?

Get Them a Nichols Store Gift Card

1980 Mt. Holly Road • Rock Hill, SC 29730 • I-77, Exit 73 www.nicholsstore.com • 803-328-9792

Merry Christmas