As the holidays approach and we become busy with school plays, church activities, volunteering, and family outings, make it easy on yourself and get a head start. Prepare as much as you can beforehand, so that when it’s time to cook the main items you are not overwhelmed, allowing yourself to enjoy precious time with loved ones. Side and dessert items (stuffing, casseroles, pies, sauces, gravies, cakes, marinades, cookies, and brines) are the supporting cast in this performance and can be made several days in advance, without losing any quality; in fact, the flavors deepen and improve as they settle…
Author: Tracy Tuten
By Paige Youmans Imagine being unable to pay your utility bill to keep your fans running during a sweltering, southern summer heatwave or being unable to heat your home in frigid temperatures. Or, suppose that your household supplies are running low and you are unable to feed your spouse and children. Where would you turn in the event of a catastrophic disaster with little to no support system? Many in the greater Chapin and Newberry areas have regained their footing and retained their dignity through the loving supportive staff and volunteers at the We Care Center. This non-profit program meets…
By Kristi Antley Whether it is a drama, comedy, or Broadway show, the unspoken energy between a live performer and their audience is astounding. While on stage, performers must instantly, spontaneously, and naturally react to audience responses—laughter, gasps, or sobs—and vice versa. Theatrical props, elaborate costumes, mesmerizing performers, entrancing music, and intricate sets magically transport the viewer to a different place, a different time, and sometimes, a different dimension. This is often the defining element that makes a live concert more personal and memorable than a performance viewed from a screen; it openly displays authentic character, talent, and charisma in…
By Marilyn Thomas Small towns take the Christmas spirit to a new level; residents and visitors are filled with a wonderful sense of giving, kindness, and generosity. Every year the prominent Lake Murray towns of Irmo, Lexington, and Chapin coordinate and host special festivities that nurture harmonious holiday spirit. Shared experiences extend beyond the events themselves, leading to continued interactions and strong support within the community. Each of these unique Christmas celebrations has something incredible to offer. As you go about preparing and planning this holiday season, take a few moments to visit your favorite local businesses and let them…
by Paige Youmans As the calendar turns, the realization that summer is gone inevitably sets in as we look ahead to cooler temperatures, wrapping up end-of-the year tasks, and extensive holiday planning. Some folks follow their family’s traditions and others blaze a new trail, creating and testing different experiences and activities. Christians observe the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, on Christmas Day with celebratory traditions stemming from religious and secular origins. These rituals foster a sense of unity with the people we love and convey deep cultural values to younger generations. The staff of Our Town Magazine had a…
By Ed Lundeen “I must say, I am most honored to be a Veteran.” Veterans serve their communities in many roles; we serve others because it is who we are. We strive to continue this service, with or without our military uniform. We take pride in our collective service to this great Nation and maintain a sincere, compassionate desire to give back by volunteering, mentoring, and sharing our unique talents and skills. Each of you, within your respective communities, has a vital role in promoting the health and well-being of Veterans and their families outside of clinical settings. It is…
by Virginia Gates “Pull up a chair. We have a seat reserved especially for you.” Those simple words evoke a warm feeling of belonging quite like no other. Sharing a meal not only brings people together, but we also learn about commonalities, exchange knowledge and wisdom, and for many a Southerner, a beloved recipe. For a dear friend of mine celebrating a milestone birthday earlier this year, she decided to forgo an elaborate gathering, but instead have a small dinner party. There were 6 couples in attendance, and we hired a private chef to cook for the evening. From appetizers…
By Jerry Grimes If you grew up in the Midlands during the 1980s and the early 2000s, or raised young children during that time, you have probably unknowingly met Fred McCurdy, also known as “Santa Claus”. He has been a prominent holiday icon for Lexington County, faithfully serving the public and delighting children of all ages. You may fondly remember him on his throne at Woodhill Mall, casually strolling around town, or greeting hungry customers at the Flight Deck Restaurant. This dedicated, sincere servant strategically navigated holiday schedules, family gatherings, traffic jams, and bustling crowds to deliver joy, hope, and…
by Catharine Barone With the many festivals and parades that Lexington County hosts each year, chances are that you have seen a parade float designed by Mr. A.D. “Sonny” Kirby and his longtime friend, Diane Jeffcoat. A childhood passion for design and ingenuity has enabled Kirby to create original exhibits from scratch, making his work truly one of a kind. He had previously worked for a parade float company and decided to continue the business once that company was no longer in operation. “Our business was built out of pocket,” Kirby explains, “we do everything ourselves from start to finish.”…
By Shawn Jennings You don’t have to be Irish to get in on the St. Patrick’s Day festivities! There are so many fun and crazy ways to honor the day, satisfy your cravings, and make some lasting memories. America initially embraced St. Patrick’s Day in 1762 with a parade in New York City. Today, we commemorate the day with authentic Irish food and brews, parades, pageants, live music, and pub parties. There are many traditions that the entire family can take part in to make the holiday special, both here in Lexington County and beyond. Be sure to cover your…