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SPECIAL EDITION THREE OF FIVE • FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015 • ELECTION & EVENT COVERAGE FIRST COPY FREE, EACH ADDITIONAL 50¢

HISTORY OF THE HOLY CROSS PUMPKIN PATCH | OCTOBER EVENTS tsblocal

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ELECT MAYOR

Leadership you can trust I’m running for mayor because I have a clear vision for the future of Fountain Inn. I see Fountain Inn as a tower supported by four main posts: police, fire, public works, and amenities (the performing arts and the recreation department). The basic strength of our city has to feature the development of reliable support systems. Without that strong base, any potential growth will surely be stunted and our journey made more difficult than it has to be, and the tower will topple.

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I feel we have underfunded these essential departments far too long. It appears morale is at an all-time low among city employees. They are understaffed, underpaid, and under-appreciated.

Our police and fire departments operate with some of the oldest equipment in the state. Our recreation department has a waiting list for children who would like to play sports, which is the result of a lack of adequate facilities and equipment. I think all of these goals can be accomplished without a tax increase – just solid fiscal responsibility by our leadership. It’s time we put a plan in place to protect the future of Fountain Inn. I’m reminded of a quote from Benjamin Franklin that says “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.” We need to start building Fountain Inn from the “INNside”. Thank you for your support.

864-838-2625 Sam4Mayor.com Sam@Sam4Mayor.com Twitter @SamLee4Mayor Facebook.com/SamLee4Mayor

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The Simpsonville Chamber of Commerce has announced the first Halloween at Heritage Park, presented by Ray Thompson’s Upstate Karate. An extension of the former Goblinfest event, Heritage Park will open the fun earlier in the day providing arts and crafts, games, inflatables, hay rides and trick or treating. The event is free for the entire family. WHEN: Saturday, October 31 12:00-7:30pm Trick or treating begins at 5:30pm WHERE: Heritage Park, 861 SE Main Street, Simpsonville MORE INFO: Simpsonvillechamber.com

864-967-3335

625 SE MAIN STREET • SIMPSONVILLE, SC 29681

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Pitching in:

Focus on Literacy Simpsonville Rotary Club Distributes Dictionaries to All Third Graders Beth Kelley Fann

Each year, Simpsonville Rotarians travel the city distributing dictionaries to over a thousand third graders. The project is part of a larger club focus on literacy. For every distribution, Rotarians meet with the children and speak on what the club does and the importance of education worldwide. The Simpsonville Rotary Club meets Wednesdays at 12:15pm. Meetings are held in Rotary Hall on S. Main, near the clock tower. For more information visit simpsonvillerotary.org

The Golden Strip stepped up and out to help downstate. Several area churches and businesses were quick to mobilize last week in the wake of massive flooding in Columbia and surrounding areas. Shown: Holy Cross Episcopal and HIT Cross Fit in Simpsonville

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Simpsonville Votes • The Banner’s Response Report

Ward 5: James Donnelly DESCRIBE ONE GOAL YOU’D LIKE TO ACHIEVE SHOULD YOU BE ELECTED. One goal I would like to achieve if I am elected is to see the city moving forward, bringing in new families, which in turn would mean more businesses. This is a great one-two punch. LIST PAST ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN OFFICE OR OF RELEVANCE TO THE SEAT. Past Vice President of the Westchester County Bowling Association of American Bowling Congress

Columbus 8182 St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church Treasurer of the Knights of Columbus – Fourth Degree Holy Family Assembly Chairman of Project Hope (Helping Other People Every day) Many different fund raising activities: Belk Drive, Pancake Breakfasts, BBQ, Aunt Het HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR CITY TO A NEW RESIDENT?

largest city and yet it has the small town charm. They have great public works, police, and fire and recreation departments. There are many beautiful parks within the city limits. There are many different activities going on within the city limits throughout the year. ANYTHING ADDITIONAL YOU WOULD LIKE VOTERS TO KNOW? I am ready willing and able to serve the people who live in the city of Simpsonville.

Simpsonville is the fourth

Past President of the Westchester County Baseball Umpires Association Past member of the Chamber of Commerce of White Plains Retired Lieutenant in the Auxiliary Police Department in the town of North Castle

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Past President of the Hudson Valley Square Dance Association

30 Heritage Point Drive

Past President of the Rotary Club Currently: Treasurer of the Knights of

Simpsonville, SC 29681 864-304-1869 Jamesdonnelly5@yahoo.com

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Simpsonville Votes • The Banner’s Response Report

Ward 5: Ken Cummings – Present) Leadership Simpsonville – Class 1 (2011) President – Kiwanis of Simpsonville (2011-2012)

DESCRIBE ONE GOAL YOU’D LIKE TO ACHIEVE SHOULD YOU BE PASTURED ELECTED. MEATS AND

ALL TURAL

A goal of mine would be for POULTRY

Best and Brightest Under 35 Award Recipient – Greenville Magazine (2013) United Way of Greenville County – Palmetto Society; AALG Board Member (2012 – Present)

March of Dimes – March for the investors of this city to Babies, Executive Council (2014) realize a “return on investment”. The investors of this city are Junior Achievement – Greenville the residents and business County – Volunteer ( 2008 – TO NOONwho invest and give owners Present) to Simpsonville through their Adjunct Professor – Webster time, talents, treasures and tax University – College of Business dollars. I believe it’s critical Administration (2010 – Present) for those investors to see, feel, touch and believe in what they are getting in return. If you HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE ask the residents and some PASTURED YOUR CITY TO A NEW business owners why they choseMEATS AND RESIDENT? Simpsonville you’ll hear a lot of POULTRY Simpsonville is a great place to the same reasons I did. We are live, work, worship and raise a at a critical time in Simpsonville, family. It’s place where it’s still and the time to prepare for ok to knock on your neighbor’s the future begins today. Let’s door for a cup of sugar, you’ll continue to embark on that TOknow NOONyour local convenience phrase implanted above the city store clerk by name, and your seal in city hall chambers “a past favorite restaurant recognizes BETHELTRAILSFARM.COM to remember, a future to build.” you by voice when you call. Simpsonville has the potential for soaring to even higher LIST PAST ACCOMPLISHMENTS heights with a renewed focus IN OFFICE OR OF RELEVANCE and steady leadership at the TO THE SEAT. helm. Vice President/Senior Commercial Relationship Banker ANYTHING ADDITIONAL YOU WOULD LIKE VOTERS TO (13+ years in industry) KNOW? Board Chairman, Simpsonville People should know that I’m Area Chamber of Commerce grounded, mature, proven, (2014-Present) dependable and humble. I’ve Ordained Deacon/Trustee – made a living by listening and Bethlehem Baptist Church (2008 providing unrivaled customer

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service and response to my customers, who many I can now call my friends. I studied Business Administration at Winthrop and received my MBA from Strayer University and my background is solely around financial services, player-coach management and relationship building. Those skills allow me to work well with folks of diverse backgrounds; the ability to navigate and troubleshoot issues in fast-paced environments and deal with sensitive issues. I will vote in the best interest of Simpsonville and the citizens. I’ve been married for 12 years to my college sweetheart, and we are raising 3 outstanding young men. What I’ve learned as a husband and father have elevated me to be able to take on tough tasks. I’m up for the challenge and I’d be honored to serve as your Ward 5 City Councilman.

8AM

FIND OUT MORE VoteKenCummings.com Facebook: facebook.com/kencummingsward5 Email: voteKenCummingsWard5@ gmail.com

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Help Wanted Economic Development in Simpsonville Editorial by Rory Curtis money, and ways to deliver a better quality of life to the residents of their individual communities.

Help Wanted: Economic Development Director. Must live, eat, breathe, and dream Simpsonville. Come prepared for an interview with a plan and a vision for Simpsonville’s future. Job requires long hours and dedication. But, wait. Before you get all dressed up for this interview, you might want to consider something. There is no such position available within the city of Simpsonville and it’s not a real employment ad. However, just because this position doesn’t exist, does that mean that it shouldn’t? Let’s take a look at it. What exactly is an Economic Development Director and how would it benefit Simpsonville? For those of you who took the time to read my last article “Selling Simpsonville Short”, you probably already understand that other cities, such as Greenville, Mauldin, Fountain Inn, Greer, and Travelers Rest, compete with Simpsonville. They are all vying for tourism, grant

Now, enter the Economic Development Director. He or she is a marketing and sales professional and this position is all about selling the benefits of investing money into the community. This person’s goal is to create an enticing “image of success” for potential investors. It’s a job that involves a solid marketing plan, product branding, and a great deal of vision, enthusiasm, and salesmanship. It’s a full-time endeavor that requires long hours and often includes a small staff that can help bring the cities’ goals to life. The job of being an EDD is one that most city officials don’t want, and frankly, don’t usually have the time or the skillset to handle. That’s not meant as an insult to our city hall. It’s just a true statement. You cannot expect for instance, city council members who are paid next to nothing for the hard work that they already do, to tackle the enormous job of an EDD. There is simply no efficient way that they can do it on their own. Between their city sworn duties, meetings, often full-time jobs, and home life, there is just not enough time in the day. Even if there was, many hard-working city officials have little or no experience in marketing and sales. That’s not a “dig”. It’s just saying that the benefits

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of their expertise often lie in other areas. So, let’s forget for a minute the grant money, tourism, and added tax revenue dollars that an EDD sometimes brings into a community. Instead, let’s focus on government efficiency. An EDD would be an employee in Simpsonville that spearheads the economic and community development projects that our present city officials are not able to properly address. By taking on these kinds of projects for the city, an EDD would free up valuable man-hours for the mayor and the city council. The result would be less micro-management by the city council and the mayor, less committees, and more time to better evaluate and address things like departmental budgeting and infrastructure. Don’t think of an EDD as an added expense. Instead, think of an EDD as someone who enables the mayor and the city council to save taxpayers money by being able to efficiently focus on what they do best.

So, what about that grant money, tourism, and added tax revenue thing, anyway? Well, one of the most important job functions of an EDD is to help obtain grant money and donations for special projects. A good example would be the grant money obtained by the city of Fountain Inn to help revitalize their downtown area. This was a matching grant in excess of $1 million. Another $1 million plus donation was received by Fountain Inn to help fund their cultural arts center. Both of these projects will result in additional tax revenue. It is doubtful that either of these could have been realized without the help and tenacity of a very driven individual by the name of Van Broad. Mr. Broad is the Fountain Inn EDD. Progress in Fountain Inn is not happening by accident. Let’s consider placing that help wanted ad. Shop Local. Support Simpsonville.

THE SIMPSONVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PRESENTS A

Candidate Forum

Thursday, October 29th, 6-8PM Events at Sapphire Creek, 401 North Main Street

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Artificial Sweeteners: They are Not Sugar, So They are Healthy, Right? WRONG! Dr. Elliot Hirshorn, New Life Functional Neurology & Endocrinology Last issue we talked about sugar and the enormous impact it can have not only on overall health but also on your individual longevity. So great are the side effects of sugar on how long you may live that they actually equal those of smoking. Yes, that’s right, sugar can be just as bad as smoking. Read last week’s blog to learn more. Let us continue the sugar conversation. In response to my article last week, you may be retorting, “But Dr. Hirshorn! I don’t use sugar, I use artificial sweetener ______.” Did you know that artificial sweeteners can be as bad if not worse for you than actual sugar? Wait! Don’t run away yet… there’s hope! Before we get to the solutions, however, it’s important to properly understand the problem. As you may be aware, over the last few decades our country has seen a steady rise in obesity. Did you also know that the rise in obesity has also coincided with a rise in the use of artificial sweeteners? Instead of helping to curb obesity, artificial sweeteners have contributed to the obesity problem! Several studies have linked these sweeteners with increased risk to obesity. When people use artificial sweeteners they actually end up taking in more calories overall which leads to the weight gain. This may be due to the influence of the sweeteners on the hypothalamus, a part of the brain that regulates eating behaviors. For example, the more sweetness you taste, the greater your appetite becomes. This then becomes a vicious cycle that becomes like an addiction. Sugar stimulates the same pleasure centers in the brain as sex and even drugs like heroin and cocaine. So, once you are hooked, it is very difficult for you to quit. The food industry knows this and that is exactly why they use these substances. These influences are just as bad in children as they are in adults as well. A study of over 3,000 children showed that those that drank diet soda had a significantly higher body mass index. Unfortunately the detrimental effects of artificial sweeteners do not end with obesity. They have also been linked to cancer. Aspartame, for instance, when digested, breaks down into three main ingredients: methanol, aspartic acid and phenylalanine. The processing of methanol in your body can create formaldehyde, which is known to cause cancer. Yes, that is the same formaldehyde used to preserve human bodies when they die! Just one soda per day with aspartame leads to a 31% increased risk for nonHodgkins lymphoma, 42% increased risk for leukemia and a 102% increased risk for multiple myeloma. The more soda with aspartame you drink, the worse the risk

becomes. Artificial sweeteners, like sucralose (Splenda), acesulfame potassium (Sweet One), and aspartame (Nutri-Sweet), are found in thousands of different “food” products including baby food, frozen foods and most commonly, carbonated drinks. We consume over 4,500 TONS of aspartame in sodas alone each year. Remember, that’s the one that’s been specifically linked to cancer! Okay, remember what I said… there’s hope! However, it does require a lot of effort on your part. Remember I also said we are addicted to sugar? That means when you get off of it, including the artificial kind, you are going to go through withdrawal. You may be cranky and irritable. You will be tempted to give up. DO NOT GIVE UP! After a few days or maybe even a week or so, these withdrawal symptoms will go away and you will immediately begin reaping the benefits of reducing your sugar intake. You may sleep better and have more energy, you might not be as irritable, and you will probably begin losing weight, just to name a few short term improvements. Of course, you will improve your long term health outlook as well by preventing further obesity and reducing your risk for cancer. Once you break your addiction to sugar, you may occasionally want or even need to add some sweeten ss to a recipe. So, what are best alternatives to processed white sugar and the artificial sweeteners? Here are three suggestions… Organic fruits like berries Organic, grade B maple syrup Organic, local honey Each of these can be used sparingly, in moderation, once you have broken your sugar addiction and reached your health goals. If you have a chronic health condition like diabetes and/or neuropathy (burning, numbness or tingling in your feet) and would like more information about how we can help you, please call New Life Functional Neurology & Endocrinology at 864-757-8500 to see if you qualify for care and to schedule a complimentary consultation. Dr. Elliot Hirshorn is a board-certified chiropractic neurologist and practitioner of functional medicine at New Life Functional Neurology & Endocrinology in Greenville, SC. The information contained herein is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or diagnosis and does not replace or constitute a doctorpatient relationship. Please seek out the advice of a qualified health care practitioner before making any health-related decisions.

Dr. Elliot Hirshorn

is a board certified Chiropractic Neurologist and practitioner of Functional Medicine. Dr. Hirshorn helps patients restore their lives by renewing the body to an optimally functional state utilizing the most comprehensive care available today.

Call TODAY to schedule your complimentary consultation to see if you qualify for care.

(864) 757-8500

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Meet the Genco Team:

Doug Smith has been an integral part of the Genco team for 16 years as our construction manager. Customers and colleagues alike truly appreciate his frankness. Born and raised in Upstate New York, Doug and his wife Laura have a son (also Doug) who in you the military, and a daughter to our Summer Staff. Wishing eachisof a successful school year. Cassie who is a teacher. The Smiths are also grandparents to Weston. Doug is an avid soccer fan, supporting Team USA.

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One Man’s Vision Gains a Life of its Own

Written by Sharon Putman

Ten years ago, in a small meeting room at the back corner of Holy Cross Episcopal Church in Simpsonville, a handful of people met to listen to a new idea from longtime church member Ennis Whiddon. For years, the church had been part of the Golden Strip Church Coalition, an alliance of local churches that combined their time, talent and treasure to build a house for Habitat for Humanity. It was a tough year for the church budget, and outreach funds were especially tight. One question the church was wrestling with was how to fund its pledge to the Habitat build. “I’ve got this idea,” Ennis said. “How about we sell pumpkins?” Selling $6,000 worth of pumpkins,

he said, would bring in a $1,000 profit to go toward the Habitat home. The room got pretty quiet. Thousands of dollars’ worth of pumpkins? Ennis was surrounded by people who thought his idea was a little crazy. But anyone who knew him knows Ennis was a visionary man. Here’s the concept: Pumpkins, gourds, and ornamental corn were being grown on a Navajo Indian reservation in New Mexico. The farm would send an 18-wheeler to Simpsonville with whatever amount of produce the church thought it could sell. “If we don’t sell it,” Ennis said, “we owe nothing.” No money down, no contract—just

PHOTO BY RANDY COCKRILL ©2015 a verbal commitment that both organizations would uphold their end of the deal. Across the country, churches and other non-profit organizations were trusting this farm to grow and deliver great pumpkins. And the farm was trusting those organizations to sell the pumpkins, honestly report their sales and then pay the farm a percentage of those sales at the end of October. In addition, the 1,200-acre farm provides jobs for more than 700 Native Americans. In a region with an unemployment rate of 42 percent, the impact is profound. More than 1,000 organizations across the United States are involved, from youth groups, scouts and schools to community groups and more than two dozen denominations of churches. The entire project is based on trust. “While it is unusual in the business world, this relationship of trust has been very effective,” according to the organization’s website. Ennis’ small committee began to see that it was a win-win situation. With his vision in mind and powered by Ennis’ get-it-done attitude, Holy Cross stepped out in faith and

ordered a quarter of a truckload with the hopes of making $1,000. In addition, Ennis envisioned involving a dozen or two new people at Holy Cross. In his mind, this was about community building—within Holy Cross and beyond. The results were astounding. In that first year alone, about 100 volunteers got involved. The first shipment quickly sold out, and another truck was sent to the Upstate. The broken, spoiled and leftover pumpkins went to local hog farms. In just one month, the church had sold $17,000 worth of pumpkins, gourds and ornamental corn and brought in $5,500 for Habitat for Humanity. Ennis died in February of this year, but his vision is thriving in ways that perhaps even he never imagined. Earlier this year, Holy Cross distributed $33,000 to 11 ministry partners thanks to unprecedented sales in 2014. Over the course of its nine-year history, the patch has raised $148,000. The church keeps none of the proceeds, and none of the money leaves the Upstate. This year, the first of four full 18-wheelers will arrive on September 26. Throughout the

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PHOTO BY RANDY COCKRILL ©2015 month of October, more than 200 Holy Cross parishioners, ministry partners and other volunteers will help unload the trucks, sell pumpkins, set up and operate the 10th Annual Holy Cross Pumpkin Patch. The Rev. Michael Flanagan says this project fits perfectly with the church’s mission statement of Making Christ Visible in God’s Community. “This is a central part of our outreach ministry,” he said. “We are able to serve our community in Jesus’ name through this fundraiser.

Local organizations partner with us to reach out and help those in need. Thus, the patch is sacramental—an outward and visible sign of God’s love in action.” This year, the church is poised to raise and give away more than ever thanks to vast support from the community. Families from across the Upstate return year after year to enjoy this large pumpkin patch. Children love to explore to find the perfect pumpkin, pulling or riding in one of the many wagons provided, and parents are able to capture

beautiful photos of their children in an expansive, colorful field of pumpkins. “We offer a wide range of products from softball-size pumpkins to much larger ones that weigh more than 50 pounds,” said Randy Cockrill, the coordinator of the Pumpkin Patch. “The selection and variety of products is unmatched in the area. At any given time, we typically have several thousand pumpkins in stock.” The patch also sells bundled corn stalks donated by local farmers. The beneficiaries of this year’s proceeds are Habitat for Humanity, Fountain Inn Kid Enrichment Center, James Monroe Mission House, Little Steps, Kairos Outside, Safe Harbor, Santa Cruz, Synergy Garden, Holy Cross Academy Scholarship Fund and Upstate Warrior Solution. On weekends, the patch has Focus Days with representatives from these ministry partners greeting customers. “This provides an excellent opportunity for the community to become more familiar with the services these organizations provide and the opportunities to volunteer,” Cockrill said.

Stop by the Holy Cross Pumpkin Patch near the clock tower in Simpsonville. Fresh pumpkins will be delivered throughout the month. WHERE: The Pumpkin Patch is located on S. Main across from Vaughn’s Country Store, 109 W. Trade Street, Simpsonville WHEN: September 26 through Halloween or until all the pumpkins are sold Hours Monday through Friday: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday: noon to 6 p.m. WAYS TO BUY: Cash, checks and all major credit cards FACEBOOK PAGE: facebook.com/ PumpkinPatchSimpsonvilleSC QUESTIONS? Randy Cockrill, rcockrill1@gmail.com LEARN MORE ABOUT HOLY CROSS: Visit: 205 E. College Street, Simpsonville, SC Call: (864) 967-7470 Email: holycross@holycrossep.org holycrossep.org

Fountain Inn Celebrates a New Look

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Fountain Inn was prepared to celebrate even through the steady rain. Originally planned to be out on Main Street, the ceremonies were moved to the Farmers Market Pavilion. The rain did not stop residents and well-wishers either; the pavilion was at standing room only by the end of the presentation. Congratulations to all who were a part of the renovation.

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Robin Hood Debuts October 23 in Pelzer Beth Kelley Fann On the heels of a wildly successful run of Ring of Fire, the Mill Town Players will debut their production of Robin Hood this month. The show is a thundering comedic rendition of the classic tale, and is intended for patrons of all ages. Will Ragland of the Mill Town Players added “This version of Robin Hood has been a hit for Seattle Children’s Theatre (where it originated) and is currently being performed in New York City at the New Victory Theater. Our production’s concept involves five beggars breaking into an old, abandoned theater and deciding to tell the story of this legend to pass the time with found objects. FANNELECTRIC

It’s also hilarious.” PRESS RELEASE: Award-winning theater company Mill Town Players stages Robin Hood as a high-energy retelling of a classic story that is fun for the whole family. High powered and action-packed, this is not your yeomanly tale of yore, but a lean, mean swordfight-fueled story of good vs. evil, trickery vs. heroism, compassion vs. greed. Blink and you’ll miss something: a sharp joke, a sly jab, a treacherous attack, a band of underground heroes rallying for those who cannot.

Whitley, Noah George, Aaron Pennington, and Michael Lewis. WHEN: Opens October 23 and runs through November 8, with shows at 7:30 pm Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and a 3:00 pm matinée on Sundays. TICKETS: online at milltownplayers.org or at the box office one hour before the show starts. WHERE: Pelzer Auditorium at 214 Lebby Street, Pelzer, SC. MORE INFORMATION: Follow the Mill Town Players on Facebook.

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Rams Retire Jersey for Dendy Hillcrest retired the number 6 jersey of Thomas Dendy, former Ram (Class of 1982) and Gamecock football great. The Rams went on to defeat the Greenville Red Raiders 41-29 on Friday, October 9. Photos by Lee Brewer ÂŠ2015

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5 9:00AM - 1:00PM Simpsonville Senior Activity Center 310 West Curtis Street Preparation, Health and Wellness Information for the 50+ Community.

Door prizes, giveaways, fun activities, and free health screenings. Vendor spaces available,

contact the Chamber for details (864) 963-3781

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Woodmont Wildcats to Debut Fall Production Beth Kelley Fann The classroom erupts in a cacophony of sound, 60 or so excited voices speaking in unison. Reporters, town people, teachers; all are roles filled by the 2015– 16 Wildcat Players, the sound a result of the initial read for their upcoming fall production.

The play is Burst, an original written by instructor Reed Halvorson. Halvorson began his tenure at Woodmont five years ago, and began the transition to Director last year. He took the reins this fall and is excited to continue the Woodmont tradition of exceptional community theatre in the area.

Burst incorporates the impressive-sized portion of the student body pursuing dramatic arts at Woodmont. The one-act plot centers on the unsolved disappearance of a group of teenage girls in a small town. A menagerie of perspectives, from troubled teen to seasoned detective, swing the spotlight as the story unfolds. The set is minimal, highlighting individual performances as the narrative shifts. Following Burst, Halvorson and his students will begin work on their spring production of Shrek the Musical. Will Ragland, former Wildcat director, will return to help with set design. Kimberlee Ferreria will choreograph the performance, and Josh Morton will serve as Music Director. Reed Halvorson (bottom) performed in Centre Stage’s recent performance of the Odd Couple

Halvorson is energetic and focused in the classroom, and as and actor and

director with Centre Stage in Greenville. In addition to his work at Woodmont, the Minnesota State graduate is also in progress on his MFA (Master in Fine Arts in Playwriting). He is currently a Director for the Spartanburg Little Theatre, and was an Associate Director and Actor for the Greenville Little Theatre for six years. Woodmont also welcomed a second theatre instructor this fall. Jonathon Keith Long is a Theatre Education graduate of Winthrop University and a talented asset to the ever-blossoming program. The success of the Wildcat Players over the past few years highlights the demand for arts in the Golden Strip

community. Along with the Younts Center and the Mill Town Players, Woodmont continues to shine brightly on the hometown stage.

Burst will run October 29 and 30 at 7pm, and November 1 at at Woodmont High School. The Wildcat Players charge a modest $5 per ticket, and those may be purchased at the door. T-shirts are also available for $5 each; all funds support the theatre program. For more information, contact Reed Halvorson at rhalvorson@greenville. k12.sc.us and follow the Wildcat Players at facebook.com/pages/ Wildcat-Players/403320656395609

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Because I Said So As a kid, there were things I could have never imagined doing. Growing up is at the top of the list. Sure, I always wished I was older. Most kids do. Even my kids want to be treated like a grown-ups because, “Jeez, Dad, we’re not 10 anymore!”, but I never thought of the maturing part. I just thought I was going to be tall child, with a driver’s license and no bedtime. One thing I remember specifically saying is, “I’ll never tell my kids ‘Because I said so’”. As a child, I felt I deserved an explanation and my future children would, also. Boy was I wrong. “Because I said so”, is not just a copout for when parents don’t have a good answer…okay, sometimes it is, but not in all cases. These are some other cases where B.I.S.S. comes in handy… Sometimes, kids, I just don’t want to scare you. Life is too short and the innocent part is even shorter. So, when you ask if you can go to the Mall by yourselves at 8 years old, I just said “No”. When I told you, you can’t sleep over at your friend’s house, because I haven’t met their parents and you scream at me that “it’s not fair!”, I get it. I feel you may be too young to hear some of the ugly truths about the world. I just can’t look into those wide eyes and spoil your pure vision of things… not yet anyway. That day will come soon enough and you cannot believe how much easier it would be, if I could just stick with, “Because I said so.” When “all” your friends have the new iPhone 12 with rocket packs built in and you HAVE to have it, “because I said so” isn’t because we’re embarrassed that line item isn’t in our budget. That go-to phrase is to keep you from worrying about adult stuff. The last thing you need to stress about is whether Mom and Dad have enough money. The answer is no. We don’t. I hope, one day, to say, “Holy cow! That’s enough money for me. You go give that cash to someone else.” No such luck, yet. We’re not broke. There is always going to be

Mark Katarzynski, Columnist

a roof over your heads. I promise, there will be food on the table and the house will be warm when it’s supposed to be (it will never be warm enough for your mother in the winter, but that is my mountain to die on). It is just, when you NEED a seventy-five dollar pair of sneakers to wear to the twenty dollar movies after you go to the fifteen dollar restaurant and the five dollar ice cream shop, on a Saturday, eight days removed from our last paycheck and six before our next and we just paid the mortgage, went grocery shopping, and the insurance is auto-deducted Thursday, not to mention we have to support three fundraisers for school, and the dogs are out of food, we will say no. When you “why” at us…well, “Because I said so” will strike less fear in your hearts than “We don’t have the money right now.” Besides, I know your friend’s parents. Their kids aren’t going either and two of them still have flip phones. It still amazes me, sometimes, a parent’s capacity to love their children. I was having coffee with my dad once. I told him, “If I knew, when I was growing up, that you loved me this much, I would have tried to get away with more stuff.” There is something you kids need to understand. Your mother and I love you more than we could ever explain. How do you know we love you? We won’t let you cut school. You have a new computer and mine still takes floppy disks. That friend of yours, with the pot leaf on their shirt? Yeah. They aren’t allowed in my house and you can’t go to theirs. I will never, EVER, let you date a guy with a van. If I know you can get an “A” a “B” isn’t good enough, but if I know you knocked yourself out, a “C” is fine. In all honesty, when I was a kid, I wouldn’t have understood these are ways of showing love. I don’t expect you to either. I suppose you are just going to have to accept, because I said so.

Roy & Frances Shelton, Innkeepers

302 South Main Street • Simpsonville, SC 29681 (864) 963-3379 • thegardenhouse@charter.net gardenhousebb.com

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Sippin’ In Simpsonville - OKTOBERFEST is a beer tasting tour of our downtown shops and local businesses. Ticket holders will enjoy craft beers, food pairings, and the downtown atmosphere as they walk among tasting locations! This year’s beer line-up will include craft tastings from CRAFTED The Beer Store and Unterhausen.

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A portion of proceeds will be donated to Honor Flight Upstate SC A canned good drive will be held at the event, and items will be donated to GSERRA.

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