Get Checked for Charlie How a community came together to heal
Sumter High School Environmental Center
Offers enrichment to the local ecological system as well as students.
PLUS: DuckFest kicks off this fall with fun for the family
CALLING ALL DUCKS
Vendors, Cook-off, Craft Vendors, Live Performances, Wildlife Demos, Mobile Cocktail Bar, Food Trucks & More!
November 2, 2024
Wildlife Education Center
8444 Old River Road, Pinewood, SC 29125 Contact us for vendor
Early Festival Events
DUCKFEST FALL OPEN TEAM BASS TOURNAMENT
Saturday, September 28th at John C. Land Landing (blast off at first light)
MISS DUCKFEST BEAUTY PAGEANT
Sunday, October 13th at Weldon Auditorium at 3:00 pm
DUCK CUP SPORTING CLAYS EVENT At FeatherHorn Farms -more info coming soon
Saturday, November 2, 2024
KIDS CORNER: ACTIVITIES ALL DAY!
Bounce Houses, games, face painting, animal balloons, and petting zoo
SWAMP FOX REGIONAL DUCK CALLING - 10 A.M.
To Register Contact Jason Thynes: (803) 460-2930
($1,000 to each winner. Winner of each contest will be qualified to compete in the World Duck Calling Contest Nov. 30, 2024)
LASER SKEET SHOOT- 11 A.M. - 4 P.M.
DOG RETRIEVING DEMONSTRATION - 1 P.M. At Camp Woodie
CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT -2 P.M.
DUCKFEST COOK-OFF - 5:30 P.M.
Contact Director Mac Bagnal: (803) 938-3145
RICE EATING CONTEST
about us from the lake
PUBLISHER
Vince Johnson
EDITOR
Kayla Green
COPY EDITORS
Rhonda Barrick
Melanie Smith
Linda Pekuri
WRITERS
Deirdre Currin
Kayla Green
Alaysha Maple
Bruce Mills
PHOTOGRAPHY
Adam Flash
Cary Howard
PUBLICATION DESIGN
Janel Strieter
ADVERTISING / GRAPHIC DESIGN
Cary Howard
Janel Strieter
ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS
Karen Cave
karen@theitem.com
Devin McDonald devin@theitem.com
Mark Pekuri
mark@theitem.com
COVER STORY 34
Charlie and Caroline Thompson explore downtown Sumter with their three children. The parents both underwent kidney surgeries one day apart from the other. Charlie's was to receive a healthy kidney. Caroline's was to give that gift.
Photo by Adam Flash
A hidden horticultural gem Sumter High School's Environmental Learning Center offers a space to learn, gather Animal Farm Clemson student spends weekends home to run homegrown animal farm with veterinarian hopes ahead Duckfest Summerton's signature festival is growing. Celebrate its 10th anniversary with family fun
Charlie Thompson How a chain of events healed more than one person and the connections made
Home and decor Your guide to trends and tips you should know inside and outside your abode
& What to do Where to go
CLARENDON • KERSHAW
LEE • FLORENCE • RICHLAND ORANGEBURG • SUMTER
SUMTER COUNTY
Palmetto Optimist Club's Burger Cookoff
The Palmetto Optimist Club's Burger Cookoff event returns to downtown Sumter's Rotary Plaza on Sept. 14 from 2 to 7 p.m. for the third year to help raise money for families battling childhood cancer, and the club is looking for people to sign up to compete or become a sponsor. Teams interested in participating can email PalmettoOptimistClub@gmail.com for details. Teams will compete in two categories, People's Choice and Judges' Choice. Everything will help support Children's Cancer Partners of the Carolinas, with the money raised going to children in Sumter and Clarendon battling cancer. Visit www.palmettooptimistclub.com/sprojects-basic for more about the event and to sign up to participate.
Terence Lonon and Jim Quick and Coastline
See Terence Lonon and Jim Quick and Coastline on Friday, Sept. 20, during the Multicultural Festival downtown. Doors open at 6 p.m. with the concert beginning at 6:30 p.m. on the grounds of Patriot Hall, 135 Haynsworth St. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy the music. Food trucks will be on site. Tickets are $20 for adults and $5 for children, available at Patriot Hall, (803) 436-2260.
Foodees Food and Culture Festival
Food truck lovers, your ideal weekend arrives Friday, Oct. 4 through Sunday, Oct. 6, when the Foodees Food and Culture Festival sets up at the American Legion Fairgrounds. A flyer for the event promises that it's "the Southeast's number one touring food truck festival," so don't miss it. There will be more than 60 food trucks and dozens of artisans and crafters for these three days of community fun. Admission is free. Hours will be: Friday, 1 to 9 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Old McCaskill's Fall Family Farm Day
Old McCaskill hosts its 15th-annual Fall Family Farm Day Oct. 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Attend-
ees can enjoy a corn pool, hay tractor, games and a pumpkin patch. Visitors will also get to see a blacksmith and sawmill and can relax to a bluegrass band playing music. Tickets are $8 per person and children 2 and under are free. The event will be held at 377 Cantey Lane, Rembert. Purchase your ticket early and skip the line at http://www.oldmccaskillfarm.com/ fallfarmday.html.
The Fall Feast
This event was created in 2004 with local businesses, organizations, restaurants, and farms donating non-traditional, all-you-can-eat selections of some of the best food secrets Sumter has to offer. From lasagna, frog legs, barbecue, greens, chicken, chili, stews, shrimp and grits, meatball sliders, squab and pigeon, caviar, charcuterie, gator bites, and more to an enjoyable array of sweet treats from our local bakeries and caterers, the Fall Feast is sure to please! This is an adults-only event (18 years and upmust have ID for adult beverage participation). Ticket donations secured in advance are $40 each. Tickets are limited. Group pre-sale ticket discount of $35 each begins at the purchase of 20 or more. (Ticket donations at the door are $50 if available - event is known to sell out.)
Oktoberfest
Grab your favorite beer and a pretzel at the annual Oktoberfest on Main on Saturday, Oct. 12, on Main Street in downtown Sumter. This is the largest fundraiser of the year for Sumter United Ministries. You'll be able to try authentic German beer and beer from Sumter's own brewery, plus of course German-inspired foods. Live music and dancing will also be on tap at this family friendly event. The fun starts at 5 p.m. with German music playing until 8:30 p.m. After that, DJ Howie D's Entertainment DJs will continue the party in La Piazza. Tickets are $10 in advance and $20 at the door with no refunds. Children under 10 are admitted free. Buy tickets at https://tinyurl.com/yyrwt34a.
Porches of Sumter
Indulge your taste buds as local cooks and caterers set up their culinary delights on charming porches and inviting patios throughout the heart of Sumter. This unique event, brought to you by FTC and Tandem Health, is a celebration of community, food, and culture. For ticket information and inquiries, visit www.sumterchamber.com/events.
CLARENDON COUNTY
Heroes on the Water Catfish Craze
Veterans, active-duty service members, first responders and their families are invited to the Heroes on the Water Catfish Craze at the Borrow Pit to kayak and fish and enjoy the outdoors to help with their healing journeys, part of the Lowcountry Heroes on the Water group's events. "We understand that every healing journey is unique, and our goal is to make every experience as comfortable as possible," according to the group. The event is on Saturday, Sept. 14. Everyone will be paired with a HOW volunteer, and the day starts at 8 a.m. and ends at 1 p.m. at Borrow Pit Launch, 13668 S.C. 260, Manning. Learn more about the event at https://tinyurl.com/ys7pj8cf.
Fall Open Team Bass Tournament
The Fall Open Team Bass Tournament will take off from John C. Land III Landing on Saturday, Sept. 28, Summerton. Compete for a $5,000 first-place prize as part of the annual Duckfest events leading up to the festival. Entry fee is $170, which includes Big Fish. There will be a $25 optional side pot at the ramp, and there is a $25 late fee if you sign up after Sept. 20.
Santee Cooper Regional Airport
Santee Cooper Regional Airport invites everyone to celebrate 58 years of aviation on Saturday, Oct. 19, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the airport, 8606 S.C. Hwy. 260, Manning. This “high-flying festival ‘24” will include an aircraft
display and World War II aircraft, plus food trucks, coffee, kids’ area and much more.
Community Safety Day
Clarendon County Fire Rescue's annual Community Safety Day will be held from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, at J.C. Britton Park, 3057 Raccoon Road. The free event will include "Trunk or Treat," food, candy and lots of other fun activities. Children can even wear their costumes. Fire trucks, ambulances, a medical helicopter, law enforcement vehicles, tractors and more cool stuff will be there.
KERSHAW COUNTY
Folklore and Legends Lantern Tour
Interested in pirate tales? There will be a special edition Folklore and Legends Lantern Tour which will highlight some of the infamous pirates who visited South Carolina's shores on Thursday, Sept. 19, with some possible pirate sightings during the tour. The tour will end at MaCaa's Tavern, with complementary grog for all (alcohol and non-alcohol versions available). Tickets in advance are $12 or $15 on the day of the tour through Historic Camden Foundation. Buy them at https://tinyurl.
com/36h667j6. The tour starts at 222 Broad St., Camden, at 7:30 p.m. and lasts one hour and 30 minutes.
Eventide – Party with the Pirates
For even more pirate-related shenanigans, check out Eventide – Party with the Pirates the next day, on Friday, Sept. 20. Also hosted by Historic Camden Foundation, the 7 to 11 p.m. adults-only event includes pirate shanties, a costume contest, snacks and a cash bar with colonial cocktails for those 21 and up at 222 Broad St., Camden. Get your tickets at https:// tinyurl.com/2p9uyupd.
Camden Horse and Hound
Put the Camden Horse and Hound weekend-long event on your calendar for Oct. 18-20. This third edition of the event will be hosted in partnership by The Camden Hunt and Hickory Top Farm. On that Friday, Oct. 18, attend a cocktail party at the Bloomsbury, then watch the Charity Polo Cup on Saturday, which will benefit Hickory Top Farm's therapeutic horsemanship programs. On Sunday, there will be food trucks, vendors and family fun at the Horse and Hound Expo. For more information, email therealcamdenhunt@gmail. com or visit https://camdenhorseandhound.
com. The event is at Camden Polo Field, 609 Polo Lane, Camden.
UPSTATE
South Carolina Bigfoot Festival
The South Carolina Bigfoot Festival is returning to Westminster on Oct. 11-12. Since 2019, thousands of people descend on this small town during the month of October to celebrate and learn about the most well know mysterious creature in the world - Bigfoot! People from all over the United States have come to the festival since 2019 and many have returned every year. Whether or not you believe in the Big Fella, you will have fun listening to expert Bigfoot researchers, tapping your feet to live music, participating in or watching the multiple contests, or perusing the many vendors up and down Main Street Westminster. Vendors may apply to participate by going to www.scbigfootfestival.com or emailing scbigfootfestival@hotmail.com.
Calling all outdoor enthusiasts
DUCK FEST
Celebrates 10th anniversary as attendance grows, features expand
In the pristine outdoors and calming waters around Summerton and Clarendon County, a sound emanates from just beyond sight.
A duck quacks out. Another offers a greeting. No response. The duck emits a call to come back. Yet another reaches out to a lonesome hen floating off from the rest or pleads to a flock high in flight.
The trick here is that they turn out to not be ducks at all.
Non-hunters may think duck hunting is all about patience, being quiet and finding the right shot. That’s all true, but using a duck call, a type of whistle that imitates the noises ducks make when communicating
certain moments and feelings, is an art. It takes the right call, used in the right way, with the right tone, throat enunciations and even words to attract the real ducks to an area. And practice. It takes a lot of practice.
Those who think they’ve mastered the art of the duck call can see how far their practice takes flight at the Swamp Fox Regional Duck Calling Contest. It’s one of the highlights of DuckFest, a community festival that reaches a milestone this year.
Summerton DuckFest brings the family fun back again this fall
Words by Kayla Green Photos courtesy of Summerton Duckfest
GROWING UP
DuckFest was created with a vision to host a family friendly annual event that promotes Clarendon County as the “Duck Capital of South Carolina” while highlighting the lakeside county’s “efforts and ability to host all who enjoy the outdoor adventures that we have to offer,” the festival’s website states.
That was 10 years ago. A lot has changed since its inception.
“When we first started, it was much smaller. It’s grown so much, and for safety reasons is why we moved it to the S.C. Waterfowl Company. It’s just more parking, you can let your kids run around and feel safe,” said Amber Newman, an event committee member who helps organize the various aspects that come with planning a community event, from parking and schedules to coordinating vendors and permits.
This will be the second year DuckFest is held at the Wildlife Education Center of S.C. Waterfowl Company, which sells duck calls and travels for conventions, owned by Newman’s husband, after having downtown Summerton host the community gathering until it outgrew its roots.
Newman has been on the committee for four or five years and said she likes how DuckFest is a way to showcase Summerton and local businesses, as well as bring visitors to the area. They give back to the community by donating money to local organizations and businesses.
OLD MEETS NEW
Returning to the festival are the classics: wildlife and outdoors vendors, duck calls for purchase, a cookoff, food trucks, live music, wildlife demonstrations, a fire department demonstration, kids’ area with bounce houses, games and a petting zoo, face painting and a dog retriever contest.
New this year are a range of activities and contests aimed at attracting the spectrum of people’s interests. There will be a laser skeet shoot and a cornhole tournament, as well as a rice-eating contest.
Yes, rice.
“Ducks like rice,” Newman said with a laugh in the tone of someone who understands the originality of the contest cuisine. “We kind of wanted to incorporate something fun that includes the crowd. A lot of festivals you go to has some type of eating contest.”
Those wanting to test their stomach can sign up that day. The rice will be cooked plain and provided by the festival. One tip: Maybe skip lunch beforehand.
Newman said they’re also working on a mobile cocktail bar.
Parking will be $5 rather than free as it was in town.
If you don’t want to wait until November to get your DuckFestivities on, head to John C. Land Landing in Summerton on Sept. 28 for the annual DuckFest Bass Tournament or sign up your daughter or go support the Miss DuckFest beauty pageant on Oct. 13 at Weldon Auditorium in Manning.
10th-ANNUAL DUCKFEST SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Early Festival Events
FALL OPEN TEAM BASS TOURNAMENT
SATURDAY
Sept. 28
John C. Land Landing, Summerton
MISS DUCKFEST PAGEANT
SUNDAY
Oct. 13
Weldon Auditorium, Manning
DUCK CUP SPORTING CLAYS EVENT
At FeatherHorn Farms more info coming soon
DUCKFEST FESTIVAL DAY OF EVENTS
SATURDAY
Nov. 2
Camp Woodie
8444 Old River Road, Pinewood T-shirts
Opens at 10 a.m.
Swamp Fox Regional Duck Calling Contest
• Directed by Jason Thynes and Ed Paul
• (803) 460-2930
• 10 a.m.
• All winners receive $1,000 and are qualified for the World Duck Calling Contest in Arkansas the Saturday after Thanksgiving
Laser Skeet Shoot
• 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Cornhole Tournament
• 2 p.m.
Rice Eating Contest
DuckFest Cook-Off
• Contact Mac Bagnal, (803) 938-3145
• 5:30 p.m.
Car Show
Kids Corner
• Bounce houses, games, face painting, animal balloons, petting zoo
• All day
Clarendon County Fire Department Demo
• Throughout the day
More events coming soon!
Parking: $5
I
Without
I
Sights on a career
Clarendon County’s
Darren Dawkins runs an animal farm and wants to become a veterinarian
Words by Bruce Mills
One could say that Darren Dawkins is getting a jump start on his career.
When not in school at Clemson University, the 20-year-old Paxville native with aspirations to be a veterinarian can be found at home operating an animal farm in Clarendon County.
But Dawkins Farm, as it is called, is not your typical farm. It is home to plenty of out-of-theordinary animals to include two giant sulcata tortoises, miniature cattle, goats, sheep with horns, a donkey and about all the bird species that one can imagine.
“We may not have a lot of one thing, but we have at least one of everything — at least of everything that you can think of,” Dawkins said.
The farm and work at the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in Sumter County have convinced Dawkins of his desire to become a mixed-practice veterinarian, which is a veterinarian for small, companion animals and large animals.
Interestingly, the farm started about 10 years ago with just two Muscovy ducks in the backyard, but little by little, it has expanded from there.
Photos by Adam Flash
We may not have a lot of one thing, but we have at least one of everything at least of everything that you can think of.
Animal varieties on Dawkins Farm
Giant sulcata tortoises
Miniature cattle (Zebu, Watusi and Hereford)
Zebra-striped donkey
Jacob’s sheep
Goats
Emus
Game fowl birds
Turkeys
Pigeons
Muscovy ducks
Geese
“I never thought I would make it past the first two ducks,” Dawkins said. “But I guess more opportunities just kept coming up, and we got to where we are today. The Lord provided us with opportunities, and I hope we are doing what is right with those opportunities. I feel like He has blessed us well back here.”
It is more fun for him to work with a variety of animals, and he said visitors like the unique breeds as well.
“I like seeing people come out here, and they
enjoy their time,” he said. “Who wants to see all the same stuff, especially since we are not a production-oriented farm, per se. Whenever the kids come out or folks come out for events and parties, they have a variety of different colors and animals to look at.”
At Clemson, Dawkins arranges his class schedule so he can have three-day weekends at home in Manning to manage the farm. When he is away, his parents help out with the animals, he said.
Some schools have visited for educational field trips.
He would like to keep an animal farm in the future, and after his career as a veterinarian, possibly return to it as a retirement job, he said.
Media Day
Photos by Micah Green
The Sumter Item held its fifth-annual Football Media Day, presented by Hines Furniture, at the beginning of August ahead of the fall high school football season. Teams from all over the tri-county brought their coach and some star players to talk about the season ahead. Here are some highlights from teams across Clarendon County.
Healthy Halloween snack options
Halloween is a magical time of year. Homes are adorned with festive fall accoutrements, including hay bales, pumpkins and mums as well as the black, purple and orange decorations that are unique to a season of ghouls and goblins.
Although decorating is a large part of the fun of Halloween, the sweet treats that are distributed to trick-or-treaters and presented at Halloween parties are arguably the most popular component of this beloved holiday. Candy is everywhere come Halloween. The National Confectioners’ Association reports that Halloween is the largest confectionary holiday, followed by Easter and Christmas. The National Retail Federation and NCA indicate the average American consumes 3.4 pounds of candy around Halloween, and 600 million pounds of candy are purchased across the country for the holiday. Is it possible to escape the Halloween sugar overload? For those who want to enjoy some healthier options than candy corn and other sweet staples, these ideas are not so frightening.
Pizza mummy: Use slices of toasted sandwich bread or English muffins to make some spooktacular fare. Coat the bread with pizza sauce. Then place thin vertical slices of mozzarella cheese in a haphazard pattern to replicate the look of gauze on a mummy. Two pieces of sliced black olives serve as the eyes.
White, orange and yellow
Simulate the look of candy corn’s white, orange and yellow color palette with healthier offerings. Stack cauliflower, or another white food like Monterey jack cheese, baby carrots and yellow bell peppers on a platter. Serve with your favorite dip.
Veggie skeleton: Use assorted vegetable slices, cheese sticks, fruits, nuts, and more for a Halloween-inspired charcuterie board. Arrange everything to resemble a skeleton on the platter.
Deviled brains: Turn regular deviled eggs into something more sinister for Halloween buffet tables. Simply add food coloring to the filling to create a pinkish-brown hue that resembles a human brain. Then use a piping bag fitted with a thin icing tip to pipe the shape of brains onto the hardboiled egg halves.
Ghostly bananas: Insert popsicle sticks into the bottoms of bananas and freeze until solid. Prepare white melting chocolate according to directions, then dip the frozen bananas into it. While wet, stick on two mini chocolate chips to make the eyes of the ghosts. Place in the refrigerator to harden.
Spider crackers: Use buttery Ritz crackers or something similar for this recipe. Spread a relatively thick layer of cream cheese (or peanut
butter if allergies are not a concern) on one cracker. Cut thin pretzel sticks in half and use four on each side to make spider legs, sticking them into the cream cheese. Top with another cracker and secure to the cream cheese. Raisins connected with more cream cheese complete the eyes of the spiders.
Anyone can use his or her imagination to make delectable and healthy Halloween offerings in lieu of more sweets.
we fail to see that’s sitting right in front of us?”
Founded in 1759, Salem Black River Presbyterian Church has had four different iterations, and the one that is still standing was built in 1846. The original brick church still stands with the same bricks that were handmade on the grounds, the same pews and the same shutters.
The Greek Revival church — nicknamed “Brick Church” — is deceptively large with tall windows and columns with a 4-foot diameter. Though legends that Bevan calls false may taint the image, the church exudes a certain peacefulness.
“There are no ghosts here,” Bevan said sternly. “Social media has done this whole thing about ‘we’ve got these ghosts here, ghosts in the cemetery.’ We’ve installed a complete security system. Anybody who’s here after dark are warned they’re trespassing, and we have arrested two separate groups who have tried to break into this building.”
to begin their own church, Goodwill Presbyterian Church, which is also still around today.
Bevan said when repairing cracks, a team found evidence that the pulpit was originally taller. Although it cannot be 100% confirmed, Bevan hypothesized the pulpit had to be lowered because members paying more for front-box pews were craning their necks to see the reverend preach.
According to church records, around the same time that the church’s board approved the lowering of the pulpit, the church invested in an iron railing on the balcony instead of an opaque one and a large curtain to go on the window behind where the reverend would preach — this would presumably be because with a lower pulpit, the sun was blocking the view of those sitting in the balcony and so was the wooden barrier that surrounded the perimeter of the balcony.
two sermons a month and two large services a year: a Christmas service and the Kirkin’ of the Tartans. The church is also open until dusk every day, and if someone is around, you may even be able to tour the inside.
Although the church does not have an official number to call, Bevan said emailing salemblackriverpresbyterian@gmail. com and requesting to be added to their newsletter is the best way to stay in the know about the church’s events.
It is piecing together stories like these that makes Bevan most excited. Knowing that her family sat on the church pews for generations adds to her fascination with the church’s history.
“We are a very small church, but we are delighted to share our enthusiasm, not only for the building, but for the history and most of the people involved in this church. Their families date back to 1759, and so it’s with great pride we share this history,” Bevan said.
Inside are several boxes that hold pews, and back in the 1800s, these pews would have been rented out by families, with the pew closest to the pulpit costing more to rent out. The balcony is accessible via the back of the building, where two steep staircases lead up to where enslaved people would have attended church. In 1867, at least 100 AfricanAmerican members left the church
The church, aptly located at 1060 Brick Church Road, holds
TERROR TRAIL
Words by Deirdre Currin
“ If you’re afraid of it, it’s on the trail,” said Brian Davis, creator of Sumter’s harrowing Terror Trail.
Spiders, clowns, chainsaws and ghosts galore; what started as a short 300-yard walk in the woods has turned into a one-mile trek through frightening conditions.
Sumter’s Terror Trail at Second Mill Pond has had its fair share of problems, however. Despite being a 100% nonprofit event, with a majority of the money from the trail going toward the local Boy Scouts troops and the rest going toward Sumter’s Elks Lodge, for the past couple years, the trail has faced thievery.
After nearly $8,000 in wiring equipment was stolen in June 2023, Davis had to completely rearrange his setup. With solar lights that have to be taken down every night, the trail has made do, and it will take more than theft to keep Davis and his team down. Even though last year held doubts that the trail would even be able to take place, about 2,500 eager fright seekers made their way to the swampy woods.
“Well, it [the theft] put us a little more on edge about theft in general, so some of the props
and things like that we take down every night,” Davis said. “But for the most part, it’s pretty much business as usual. We had a power hiccup, we figured out a way to move around it, and we continue to have fun.”
Though the trail, which is now in its 12th year,
first started with about 300 attendees, the recent numbers are still not enough for Davis, who said he wants to have at least 5,000 customers.
As for age limitations, anyone who can walk is allowed on the trail, and Davis encourages even those who are not fans of the trail’s creepiness to come hang out by one of the trail’s many campfires to roast marshmallows they brought from home or buy some food and cider while others handle the scaring.
Photos from The Sumter Item archives
“It’s a great adult activity just because it’s fun to laugh at your friends,” Davis said. “It’s a great kid activity, and even for parents, if you’re not into the trail, send your kids on the trail, and the adults can hang out by the campfire, get a hot dog and a soda and wait for your kids to come off.”
The ticket prices have not been settled on yet for this season, but Davis said they will be below $20. The trail will be open a total of eight nights a week: Oct. 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26, 31 and the first of November from 7:30 p.m. until the last group walks the trail.
As it is on the edge of Green Swamp, the trail’s history and murky atmosphere add to the terror.
“There’s history of Green Swamp, of Civil War soldiers being buried on the banks of the Green Swamp only to have thieves come and dig up their graves,” Davis said. “You know, that story sort of lends to the Terror Trail. And then being on the edge of Green Swamp and alligators lends to the allure of the Terror Trail.”
However, there is no need to worry about getting lost on the trail, as people are sent in groups, the scare actors keep people on the designated path, and there is a steel cable perimeter boundary in place.
The trail has become part of Davis’ schedule year long now with maintenance beginning in February to keep the trail in shape for the Halloween season.
The trail even has a Christmas counterpart that has been scary in the past but will be a traditional Christmas family trail with Christmas characters this December called the Tinsel Trail.
For updates on the trail or inquiries about volunteering as a scare actor, follow the Terror Trail's Facebook page, “Terror Trail at Second Mill Pond.”
horticultural gem: A hidden
Discovering the Sumter High School Environmental Center
When kids don't play outside as much anymore, there is a place where they can learn and grow, naturally.
Words and photos Alaysha Maple
Hidden gems come in all shapes, sizes and shades, often tucked away in places we least expect. These treasures, whether people, places or experiences, enrich our way of life and offer unexpected joy.
But what about those gems that lie in Sumter’s backyard?
Nestled on a 40-acre site within Sumter High School’s 100-acre property is its Environmental Center. This vast stretch of land has served as a hidden sanctuary since being established in 1983. What began as a vision during spring break of ’83 blossomed into an essential resource for education, conservation and community engagement. The center features winding trails that take visitors through a variety of habitats, allowing them to immerse themselves in the richness of the natural world. From the lush wetlands to the towering forest, each step taken through the horticultural wonderlands offers a new perspective on the complexity of nature.
fruition and served as its director for quite some time. When it was time to pass the torch, she placed it in the hands of someone with a strong passion for the outdoors.
Director William Floyd has shared his passion for environmental science with Sumter High since 2009. A 2008 graduate of University of South Carolina, he ventured to Sumter to be closer to his dad and scored a job as a permanent sub for the high school. After becoming a certified teacher through the PACE Program, he was immediately introduced to the Environmental Center.
A pond with boardwalks, an observation tower and various seating areas, including an outside classroom, are an invitation for exploration and reflection. Among its carefree structures live beavers, various species including our state bird, the Carolina wren, snakes, frogs, turtles and an abundance of flora.
Though beloved as a local treasure, the center has also gained statewide recognition. In January 2006, the school was honored with the 2006 South Carolina Wildlife Federation Education Award for its remarkable work in conservation. Nancy Thompson was instrumental in bringing the center to
For Floyd, the Environmental Center is not just a place to work – it’s a passion project that has fueled his love for teaching and the environment for more than a decade. The biggest reward for the teacher is to watch his students become naturals when exploring nature. The environmental science curriculum is created around subjects that are relevant and important to the students. Floyd will gauge their interest at the beginning of the school year and roll with it, creating projects and trips out to the center to delve deeper into the topic.
“The kids now, they don’t spend their lives growing up outdoors. They go out there, and they’re a little trepidatious … and by the end of the semester, they’re just walking through like veterans,” Floyd said, beaming. “It’s a really cool thing out there to actually be able to get our hands dirty and learn while actually having some fun.”
And fun can look different for each student – take Sumter High junior Michael O’Neal, for example.
Want to lend a hand?
Anyone interested in helping preserve and protect Sumter’s haven of horticulture can contact William Floyd at william.floyd@ sumterschools.net.
O’Neal’s dedication to environmental protection and preservation began in Floyd’s environmental science class. He did not enjoy seeing the trails submerged in water, the overflow making it impossible for students to explore the center’s natural beauty. With permission from Floyd, he began working to address the issue as part of his Eagle Scout project. In April this year, alongside trusted friends and family, he ventured out to the center to clean out the culvert. Yet, water continued to settle.
Around mid-May, O’Neal and his crew installed a drainage system that features a 40-foot-long pipe, a 6-inch elbow on the end and a 3-foot cage at the problem site. The crew was able to drain about 6 million gallons of water that had overflowed from the spring-fed pond.
O’Neal estimated about 1,000 gallons of water drained per minute.
Beavers were the main culprit behind the overflow, along with trash that tumbled its way from the parking lot of the school to the center. The project
was far from easy, requiring copious amounts of digging and a few moments of hand-to-paw combat with the pesky creatures. But for O’Neal, it was worth it.
O’Neal plans to venture out to the center often for regular maintenance of trails and trash cleanup. Both he and Floyd are excited about establishing a high school club that encourages maintenance and outdoor ethics, as “a connection to nature is good to have.”
And the public is more than welcome to connect as well. The center’s accessibility is one of its best features. Its trails are open to the public after school hours and during weekends. Floyd and his colleagues, including
fellow teacher Jason Loudenslager, have worked tirelessly to maintain the site, often using their own time and resources.
But Floyd hopes to gain more attention and more helping hands to preserve this hidden horticultural gem.
“I’m always interested in working with new groups and new people that might be interested.”
Whether you’re a nature lover, a curious student or just someone looking for a peaceful escape, the Environmental Center offers something special. As you wander its trails, you may find that the journey is just as rewarding as the destination.
E l l o r e e l l o r e e
S a r d i n i a S a r d i n i a
G a b l e G a b l e
H a r v i n H a r v i n
S i l v e r S i l v e r
W o r k W o r k
W i l s o n W i l s o n
J o r d a n J o r d a n
S t P a u l S t P a u l
Caw Marina Santee Lakes
F o r e s t o n F o r e s t o n
G r e e l
H e i n e m H e i n e m
W e l l s W e l l s
E u t a w v i l l e E u t a w v i l l e
l v i l l e
F o u r F o u r H o l e s H o l e s
S a n d r i d g e S a n d r i d g e
B o n n e a u B o n n e a u
W h i t e s v i l l e W h i t e s v i l l e
Did you know?
26 million American adults have kidney disease, but most don’t even know it.
Charlie Thompson Ring
Bell: the
shares his journey of faith, resilience and power of community after 2nd kidney transplant
Did you know?
Most people have two kidneys, but you can live with one (or less).
In the corridors of Charleston’s Medical University of South Carolina, the pure sound of a bell rings out. A sound that symbolizes victory, resilience and the culmination of a long and challenging journey. For Charlie and Caroline Thompson, this ringing marked the beginning of a new chapter – one filled with renewed hope and health, thanks to the selflessness of strangers.
THE FIRST BELL
Charlie’s journey began long before the bell rang.
Born with obstructive uropathy, a condition that severely affected his kidneys, Charlie faced a lifetime of medical hurdles. A goal that seemed unattainable would be met on Sept. 2, 1999, when he received his first kidney transplant, granting him nearly 25 years of normalcy.
Experiencing the highs of high school and college, Charlie would go on to marry Caroline DuRant, and together, the couple would raise three boys. Charlie was loving and living life. But life, unpredictable as it is, had more in store. After contracting COVID-19 multiple times during the pandemic, Charlie’s body turned against his transplanted kidney.
An attempt was made to save the kidney, but it required drastic measures. Charlie would undergo a process called plasmapheresis, a
process in which the liquid part of the blood, or plasma, is separated from the blood cells. Typically, the plasma is replaced with another solution such as saline or albumin, or the plasma is treated and then returned to your body.
In the end, Charlie was stabilized. “But it didn’t fix everything,” he added. This meant Charlie would require another transplant.
He would be added to the cadaver list, or deceased-donor kidney transplant list, for which a kidney from someone who has just died is given to someone who needs a kidney. Charlie and Caroline thought it would be years before a kidney would become available. Little did Charlie know, his faith, steadfast and unwavering, would ignite a movement of “Get Checked for Charlie” that skyrocketed his popularity throughout the hospital.
Words by Alaysha Maple
Photos by Adam Flash
Did you know?
March is National Kidney Awareness Month
CAROLINE’S COURAGE
Caroline didn’t hesitate when faced with the prospect of helping her husband.
“I was one of the first ones to say, ‘I’m going to get tested,'" she said. Almost as if it were fate, the couple are the same blood type. Caroline thought she’d be a shoo-in to donate a kidney. But, down the line, they would realize it was more complicated than that.
Caroline was not a match.
“They said since he had transplants before, his antibody count was just through the roof,” Caroline explained. “It was like a 3% chance that we were going to find a live donor.”
“Originally, when I got the call that I was not a match for him, we thought that the door closed, and it really was an opportunity to help two other people,” Caroline said.
The hospital approached Caroline about enrolling in the Kidney Paired Donation program with United Network for Organ Sharing. Sometimes a transplant candidate has someone who wants to donate a kidney to them – like Caroline desired to do for Charlie — but tests reveal that the kidney would not be a good medical match. Kidney paired donation, or KPD, also called kidney exchange, gives that transplant candidate another option. In KPD, living donor kidneys are swapped so each recipient receives a compatible transplant, UNOS explained.
“Yes, absolutely. Let’s do that,” was all Caroline could say to the offer. Her selfless act not only increased Charlie’s chances of finding a match, but also opened the door for another person to receive the gift of life.
After a plethora of testing and screenings to ensure she could live a healthy life both physically and psychologically with one kidney, something extraordinary happened. In what could only be described as an act of divine intervention, the call came – a Good Samaritan donor had emerged. Good Samaritan donors are individuals not attached to anyone in need of a kidney and simply walk into hospitals wanting to donate their kidney.
This donor set in motion a chain reaction that would ultimately lead to Charlie’s life-saving transplant. To this day, the Thompsons still don’t know the identity of Charlie’s donor.
Caroline, however, would get to meet her recipient.
It’s such a picture of the Gospel. It’s the act of donation because you're giving to someone you love with no benefit to yourself,” Caroline expressed. “In this case, I definitely do get a benefit because I get him.
THE BELL RINGS AGAIN
The day of surgery arrived, filled with both hope and anxiety. The Thompsons faced the momentous occasion with equal parts fear and faith.
Through the six-person chain exchange, three people donated kidneys – one being Caroline – and three people received kidney transplants, including Charlie.
On Wednesday, July 17, Caroline went into surgery, one that would end in a successful transplant and a joyous meeting. Robert, the recipient of Caroline’s kidney, had waited on the kidney transplant list for 11 months and was on dialysis for 15 months. The hug they shared post-surgery was one that conveyed more gratitude than words ever could.
“How you doing?” Robert asked Caroline.
“As long as you’re feeling good, I’m feeling great,” Caroline replied.
Thank yous were plentiful, as were the smiles of family and friends who gathered around to witness the meeting. The Thompsons have kept in touch with Robert, checking on each other and setting plans to meet as often as possible.
With one surgery down on Wednesday, Thursday would be the big day the Thompson family had been waiting for.
That afternoon, Charlie’s kidney was successfully flown in from 21 hours away (driving time) during the Microsoft outage that grounded flights across the country, disrupted emergency 911 phone lines and affected hospital systems. The Thompsons breathed a sigh of relief, emphasizing it was “a testament to the power of prayer.”
The surgery was successful. And Charlie immediately felt a difference.
“I woke up from surgery and felt 100 times better. I immediately wanted to get up and start walking, and I did … I'd get up and walk; I'd walk laps around the floor, and they're having to hold me back to lay down a little bit,” Charlie said, laughing alongside his family. “I think a lot of people who have kidney issues or anything, they don't realize how sick they are because they get used to it.”
Charlie was still venturing into work daily, playing with his kids and attending CrossFit since 2012 – a facility he’s beyond grateful for. It is because of his resolve to be active before his surgery that he was able to
bounce back more quickly than he thought.
The ringing of the bell at MUSC was more than a celebration of life itself –of love, resilience and the triumph of the human spirit. As the sound echoed throughout the hospital floor, it symbolized the closing of one chapter and the hopeful start of another.
A NEW BEGINNING
The Thompsons’ journey was not one they walked alone. Through the Get Checked For Charlie Facebook page, the family garnered more than 700 followers to share their remarkable journey with, consistently highlighting the importance of faith, love and support.
After returning home, Charlie said their house has become a compound of care. Since he and Caroline are not able to lift more than 10 pounds, there has been an outpouring of support from their parents, family, friends and church members to assist in caring for their three boys, cooking, cleaning, mowing the lawn and so on as their surgery wounds heal.
The entire experience and all who were involved have been a true testament to the powerful work of God.
“It’s such a picture of the Gospel. It’s the act of donation because you're giving to someone you love with no benefit to yourself,” Caroline expressed. “In this case, I definitely do get a benefit because I get him.”
Today, Charlie and Caroline are more resilient than ever. With both of them grateful for the sacrifices and strength shown throughout this journey – Charlie being in utter awe of his wife’s courage and Caroline being overjoyed at seeing the renewed spirit within her husband – they are committed to living life to the fullest and spreading kidney awareness each and every way they can.
Did you know?
Ways to keep the kidneys healthy: Drink plenty of water daily, don’t smoke, eat healthy low-fat foods to cut the risk of high blood sugar and high blood pressure Facts provided by Urology Care Foundation
Home& SUMTER Décor
with KEEP UP kitchen trends
(Family Features) If you're considering a kitchen renovation, you've probably heard cautions about avoiding overly trendy designs that can diminish your home's value and limit its appeal to future buyers. That's sound advice, but many of this year's trends are relatively neutral and have long-term staying power.
Kitchen upgrades are typically all about making practical updates to meet the needs of a family. The key to smart design is incorporating functional elements a family requires while striking a balance between style and trends that quickly become outdated.
Before you dive into a kitchen project, consider these on-trend design recommendations from the experts at Wellborn Cabinet.
Add health-focused features
As the hub of nutrition, it's no surprise wellness design features are making their way into the kitchen. Some examples include appliances with air frying or steaming features, and double ovens are appearing in more homes, making home meals for the family easier to manage. Also look for technology that simplifies meal planning and managing your pantry inventory, as well as features that regulate food storage temperatures more precisely, including during power outages.
Shift back to wood stains
Painted cabinets had their moment, but the latest designs are revealing a movement back toward warm wood grains, specifically oak. As trends continue to shift toward embracing natural elements, as well as exploring diverse color palettes, cabinet manufacturers are constantly innovating to meet the demands of consumers and design professionals alike.
To elevate contemporary cabinetry design, Wellborn Cabinet introduced
captivating finishes that celebrate natural materials and textures. Inspired by the highly desired white oak at a more accessible price point, Boardwalk offers a breath of fresh air, allowing the unique oak wood grain to take center stage. The striking finish of Peppermill introduces a versatile darker brown hue with a subtle gray undertone, adding depth, dimension and sophistication. If you're not quite ready to fully embrace natural wood tones, Alabaster may be a perfect alternative; this hue provides the timeless elegance of neutral white.
Dedicate space for beverages
Food prep may be a mainstay in functional kitchen design, but a growing number of homeowners are calling beverages a close second with the addition of built-in coffee bars or smoothie stations and specialized storage for beer and wine. Countertop or supplementary nugget ice makers are another example of trending kitchen accessories that reinforce a growing focus on beverages for all occasions.
Go for contemporary cabinetry
Your kitchen's cabinet doors play an important role in defining your design aesthetic. Consider Wellborn's wide variety of door styles, several of which have been redesigned to support the trend toward a simpler, smaller rail that's in favor among designers and homeowners alike. With softer, more up-to-date appearances, they feature eased profiles to produce simple,
straight, clean appearances. Options like Breckenridge and Ridgebrook offer updates to the modified Shaker style with a clean, modern, less clunky aesthetic. Made of quality, solid wood, they feature a reversed raised center panel to coordinate with a variety of design styles.
Embrace the middle ground
Kitchen islands are hardly a new design element, but an increasing number of homeowners are making them a major focus of their renovations. A kitchen trends study by Houzz revealed 42% of homeowners are opting for islands that are 7 feet long or more. That's extra prep space, but also more room for casual seating or socializing while hosting. Also gaining popularity are double islands for double the workspace.
Skip bland backsplash tile
The wall space between your countertops and upper cabinets may not amount to much, but it's a sure place to make a style statement. This year's designers are saying farewell to stark white subway tile backsplashes. Instead, nature- and earth-inspired tones are trending. You can still use subway tile but consider a variation from the traditional stacked design. Texture is another option for modernizing your backsplash; think handcrafted tiles or earthy textures but take care to avoid overly busy patterns.
Budget-friendly
IDEAS TO BOOST CURB APPEAL
(FamilyFeatures)Yourhome’sfirstbigimpressionisitscurbappeal,soifyourplaceisinneedofsomesprucingup, youmaywonderhowyoucanmakesomeupdateswithoutbreakingthebank. These10ideasareeasyonbudgets,buttheycanalsomakeabigimpactonyourhome’sexteriorimage.
1.Paint your front door. As long as your front door is in good condition, there’s no need to replace it completely. A fresh coat of paint can instantly update your home’s facade. Go bold or stick with a classic hue – it’s all up to you.
2.Dress up the windows. Add character and charm by enhancing your front windows. You might add wooden shutters, window box planters or both. Also look at the trim around the windows. If it’s chipped and peeling, adding a fresh coat of paint doesn’t just look nice, it can protect your windows from damage, too.
3.Clean up flower beds. An unkempt flower bed can drag down an otherwise stunning home. Keep beds tidy and vegetation trimmed, even during the offseason. Watch for weeds and replenish mulch or rock ground cover as needed to keep the beds looking healthy and inviting.
4.Install new lighting. Replacing outdated light fixtures can give your exterior an instant upgrade. There’s no right or wrong style; just choose a color and look that matches the rest of your design.
5.Replace worn welcome mats. A cheerful mat at your front door can be an inviting sight for visitors, but those mats inevitably wear with time, and what was once bright and charming becomes dingy and dull. A new mat can help bring back that cheery entry you once cherished.
6.Pressure wash the drive and walk. Over time, driveways and sidewalks collect an incredible amount of grime. Pressure washing not only eliminates the filth, but the clean surfaces also add to your home’s visual appeal.
7.Add new vegetation. Landscaping is a relatively inexpensive way to introduce more personality to a yard. Aim for a mix of pretty and practical, such as some low flowering bushes and some trees or bushes that offer privacy and shade.
8.Keep up with basic maintenance. When your home is in poor repair, it shows. Pay attention to bent or rusting gutters, imperfections in the roof and other maintenance matters that aren’t just aesthetic; left unrepaired, they can also result in major damage.
9.Pay attention to details. Functional items like the mailbox might not seem like much of a design element, but these small details can be a big distraction if they’re not in good condition. Update or replace as needed to keep your aesthetic in sync.
10. Add seasonal decor. There’s no need to go all out for every occasion, but some timely decorations that celebrate the holiday or season can make your entry fun and festive. Coordinate wreaths, planters, signs and other accent pieces for a cohesive look that says, “come on in.”
Find more affordable ideas for upgrading your home and garden at eLivingtoday. com.
late-Summer Mowing Tips for a healthy, lush lawn
(StatePoint) Late summer is a time of year when yards see a lot of foot traffic. Whether you’re hosting parties and events or your kids are running all over the lawn, your grass needs to be in tiptop shape.
In a recent Backyard Life video, the multimedia destination of lawn care equipment manufacturer Exmark, product manager Chris Lamme offers insights for keeping grass healthy and lush all season. He says: “When it comes to maintaining a beautiful lawn, the main factors to consider are the height of your cut and the frequency of cut, and that starts with knowing what type of grass you have.”
According to Lamme, these three strategies can help you cultivate a healthy lawn:
1. Know your grass. Before you start mowing, it’s crucial that you know what grass type you’re working with. Different areas of the country will have grasses specific to their climates. Warm-season grasses, found in southern states, should be cut to a height of 2 to 3.5 inches— on the shorter for Bermuda and Centipede grasses and on the longer side for St. Augustine and Zoysia grasses. Cool-season grasses, found in northern states, can be trimmed down to 3 to 4 inches—on the shorter side for Bluegrass and Ryegrass, and on the longer side for Fescues. While moisture, sun exposure and temperatures can vary cut height needs, typically grasses should be mowed to the upper end of their recommended cut heights during the heat of the summer. If you’re not sure of your grass type or you live in
the transition zone, stick to the rule of thumb of cutting one-third of the grass’ height.
These guidelines are important, as mowing too short can damage the roots, leaving your grass unable to absorb nutrients from the soil. However, if you let it get too long, you’re going to bog down the mower when you do get around to the task.
2. Don’t over- or under-mow. Over- or under-mowing your lawn can lead to unhealthy grass and bare patches, so consider how regularly you mow. Strive to mow when the height of the grass grows to the point that one-third of its length will be mowed. So, if you’re mowing to a height of 2 inches, let the grass grow to 3 inches before mowing. Mulching is also helpful during the summer, as it keeps moisture and nutrients on the lawn, reducing the need to water and fertilize. Pay attention to what your lawn needs, don’t just fall into a strict routine.
3. Change up the direction. Mowing in the same direction or pattern every time can damage your grass. When you mow too often in one direction, it can push the grass down and give you an uneven cut, even leaving ruts in your yard if you’re not careful. Be sure to change up the patterns and direction of mowing to ensure a nice, even cut quality every time.
To view the video as well as to access more tips on all things outdoor life and learn your turf zone, visit exmark.com/backyard. Your Exmark dealer is another good resource for information and can provide the parts and service you’ll need down the line to keep your mower in good repair for a healthy lawn.
Now that you’re armed with these summer lawn care tips, you’re ready to get out there and start mowing!
DIY Tips
(Family Features) If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to dress up a room in your home, crown molding can be a simple way to add elegance and class with minimal investment.
Crown molding is most commonly applied as a decorative trim where the walls meet the ceiling. It is often painted the same color as the baseboards, door frames and other woodwork, but can be colored to match the ceiling or a different shade to create extra drama.
Though the corner angles may be especially daunting for do-it-yourself types, installing crown molding is a project you can tackle without the assistance of a professional. However, it is a good idea to ask for help along the way, as all the measuring, marking and holding up pieces for nailing can be a bit much for one person.
This step-by-step guide can show you how to create a striking design element in your home:
1. Measure the perimeter of your room, remembering to take into account any insets or bump-outs that add additional inches. Be sure to pad your total when purchasing materials to allow for a mistake (or two).
2. Prime and paint the molding, front and back, and allow it to dry completely.
3. Mark the studs near the ceiling on all walls so you can securely attach the molding.
4. Measure from the ceiling down the depth of the molding and mark this point. Using a level, establish a baseline for the length of each wall.
5. Use a miter saw or coping saw to trim angles for corner pieces. Remember the molding as it lays on the saw table is the inverse of its fit to the wall, so you may want to make a few practice cuts to be sure you’re trimming angles properly. A good rule of thumb: For outside corners, the top edge is longer; for inside corners, the longer edge is on the bottom.
6. Attach molding using a nail gun, making sure to hit as many studs as possible for secure attachment.
7. On the sections that fit in corners, nail the center of the molding first, leaving the corner end loose. Use a wood shim or screwdriver behind the bottom edge of the molding to make adjustments and eliminate gaps before securing the corners.
8. Where you join two pieces for a long stretch of wall, be sure the seam falls over a stud, so you can nail both ends firmly in place. For the most polished look, fit the ends of these pieces together with complementary 45-degree angles.
9. If your nails aren’t fully sunk, use a nail set to press them deeper. Use wood putty to cover nail holes.
10. Caulk all seams using a thin stream and use a finger dipped in water to smooth away excess.
11. Touch up paint, especially over putty spots and seams.
Find more tips for upgrading your home at eLivingtoday.com.
7 ways to creatively display favorite photos
(Family Features) Family photos, vacation pictures, candid snapshots of friends and family – they’re often visual representations of some of your most treasured moments, so it’s likely you’ll want to give them some special treatment. Consider these easy and affordable ways to showcase some of your favorite photos.
Variations on a theme – You don’t have to have a whole set of matching frames to create a unified look. Gather frames of different sizes, shapes and textures then paint them all the same color. White, cream or black are colors that let the eye focus on the photograph. Then when you group them together, you’ve got a cohesive display without everything being the same.
Location, location, location – Photos don’t always need to be on a wall or shelf. Try hanging a series of related photos on the back of a door or
A new use for old frames – Take a large frame with no back and paint it. Then take two pieces of ribbon or wire and attach them to the back of the frame, dividing it into three sections. Attach small photos to the ribbon or wire with mini clothes pins or other small clips.
New frames out of old windows – Fit a photo mat inside each pane of an old window. Attach photos to the backs of the mats and you have a
Get it on canvas – Treat your photos like the works of art they are by having them printed on artist canvas. There are a variety of online vendors that let you choose the size and photo treatment to create a unique piece for your personal gallery.
Showcase favorite travel photos by covering a mat with a map from one of your vacation spots. Just trim the map to fit your mat, tape it to the back and insert your picture.
Put it all on the table – Add to your stylish decor and protect your furniture all at the same time by making your own photo coasters.
Find more ideas for creatively displaying your favorite photos at eLivingtoday.com.
