The Banner by tsblocal

SPECIAL EDITION TWO OF FIVE • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2015 • ELECTION & EVENT COVERAGE

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ELECT MAYOR

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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Vote November 3rd

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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Head to the Fair(s) Two authentic events that showcase local heritage and the artfully handmade.

Farm Fresh Fair at the Farm at Rabon Creek

South Greenville Fair at Simpsonville City Park

Jenn Hulehan What has live music, craft beer, local artisans, farm-fresh food, and fun for the whole family? It’s Farm Fresh Fair 2015, and it’s happening this weekend! You won’t want to miss this event—which has been extended to two days this year. Choose to go Saturday or Sunday or both days! Either way, the price is right: just $5 for adults and $1 per child.

Beth Kelley Fann

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The South Greenville Fair returns for their 58th annual event on Saturday, September 19th. A throwback to an era past, the fair brings the spirit of hometown pride to Simpsonville every fall. The event was first conceived by community leaders Jeff Richardson, Sr., Conway Jones, and T.C. Alexander “to educate and inspire community celebration of the science and technology of plant and animal production.”

So head on out to the Farm at Rabon Creek to get a true taste of all that the Upstate has to offer. There’s definitely something for everyone. Where: The Farm at Rabon Creek, 125 Phillips Lane, Fountain Inn. When: Saturday 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Sunday 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. More Info: thefarmatraboncreek. com/farmfreshfair and facebook. com/events/1620996388186569

This year, the event features more than 100 artisans and vendors selling vintage, handmade, and repurposed goods. You’ll also find food trucks and local eateries like The Peddler Steakhouse and Larkins on the River serving up tasty treats. You can take home some food for later, too, with local honey, local cheeses, and localALL NATURAL meats all available for purchase.

There’s an expanded kids’ area this year, too—so the little ones won’t SATURDAYS be bored. You can even try a yoga THROUGH class on for size (bring your own OCTOBER 17 mat!) at 10:30 AM on Saturday or 11:15 AM on Sunday. De-stress— then shop & eat. What’s not to

US AT THE FARMERS MARKET

The fair is free to all, and will be held at Simpsonville’s City Park on Saturday, September 19. For more information visit southgreenvillefair.com

8:30 am- Enter Pocket Pets, Chalk Art Begins, 1st Annual BBQ Rib Cook Off 8:45 am-Fair Queen Crowning 9:00 am-Goat Show 9:30 am- Rabbit Show 10:00 am-Dairy Show 11:30 am- Beef Show 1:00 pm- Dog Show 2:00 pm- Tractor Parade 3:00 pm- Horse Show All-day Events: Farm Animal Exhibit Flower & Art Show Antique Engine & Tractor Show Grandpa’s Farm

SPECIAL LOCATION This Saturday

PASTURED MEATS AND POULTRY The Simpsonville

Market will be closed on Saturday, September 19, returning on September 26. Find us at AM Farm Fresh Fair this weekend!

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Economic Development in Simpsonville Selling Ourselves Short Editorial by Rory Curtis

I have heard a few comments from local residents—and from a couple of politicians lately— that Simpsonville should not worry about economic and community development. Their reasons are varied and are generally housed in negativity. Whenever I hear these kinds of remarks I think that the people who talk this way are being too passive, don’t really understand what economic and community development is, and are selling Simpsonville short because of it. As a businessman and retail store owner, I have a rather different view. It’s a view that is more positive, more aggressive, and full of confidence in our great community. I not only think that the city of Simpsonville should worry about economic and community development, but also that we should strive to be its leader in the Golden Strip. A number of citizens and politicians seem to want to turn economic and community development into some sort of twisted, caustic and negative political strategy by downplaying its importance. They try to convince other citizens that economic development is somehow a bad thing. But this article is not about political strife in Simpsonville. It’s about business, and I hope in it

to shed a little light on why all communities should be concerned about economic development. So let’s throw politics out the window right now. Let’s instead break it down from a very simple business perspective, so that we can all understand that economic development is actually a pretty great thing. For just a brief moment, I would like you to consider that Simpsonville is not just a beautiful city, that South Carolina is not just the state you have grown to love and that America is not just the best country in the world. Think about your country, your state and Simpsonville as a business. Take your emotions out of the equation, then read on. America is one of the world’s largest super-malls, buying and selling products, importing and exporting them to and from locations all over the planet. It boasts an almost unimaginable product line and generates a Gross National Product well into the trillions of dollars every year. How much is a trillion dollars? Well, if you make 40k per year and save every penny, you will be a trillionaire in 25 million years. It’s a bunch of money. Now imagine that every state in America is basically a franchise

“outlet mall” and that all of those malls want their piece of that multi-trillion dollar American pie. One of those outlet malls is called South Carolina, and within that mall are a variety of cities (or smaller stores within the mall) including Greenville, Spartanburg, Fountain Inn, Greer and a host of others, all of which are competing with one another. The only real difference is that instead of competing for retail customers who want to buy a $50 pair of blue jeans, they compete for millions of dollars that come from things like grant money, tourism, manufacturing plants, education and employment opportunities for their citizens. Each and every city is competing for money to make the quality of life better within their community. The community projects that this money is used for range from repairing bridges to beautifying their downtown

areas. One example of a multimillion dollar project like this is the Fountain Inn Main Street beautification endeavor, which is now near completion. Because there is so much money at stake and because economic development is so important to a community, many cities (not Simpsonville) have a line item in their budget referring to it. Cities also often have a vision and a plan in moving forward. Many cities, both small and large, also even have a kind of sales manager on staff that is hired to promote, market and sell their individual city benefits to potential customers. This “sales manager” is better known as an Economic Development Director. He or she has an office—sometimes a staff—and works full-time to make the city a better place in which to live, work, go to church and raise a family. It should be noted that while there is an Economic

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Development Director in Fountain Inn who spearheads a number of city projects, there is not one in Simpsonville. It is undoubtedly one of the big reasons that Fountain Inn now has a cultural arts center and has made giant strides with their downtown beautification project. Cities like Fountain Inn tend to believe that putting money into economic and community development is like reinvesting tax dollars back into their own hardworking community.

“So let’s throw politics out the window right now. Let’s instead break it down from a very simple business perspective, so that we can all understand that economic development is actually a pretty great thing.”

While it may seem harsh, the truth is that business is not like a child’s soccer game. It’s not one of those things where you pull up in a minivan and everyone gets a trophy just for passively participating. Economic development doesn’t happen by accident, and there is nothing passive about attracting business, jobs and culture to a community. It’s instead purposeful and intentional, and it requires a commitment. It’s ultra-competitive, and there are sometimes millions of dollars at stake.

If Simpsonville is going to compete for grants, re-energize its downtown, attract significant businesses, build a cultural center and generally improve the quality of life, chances are good that it won’t happen without taking economic development seriously. We will also need to learn a little bit from our local competitors, such as Fountain Inn, Greer, Mauldin and Travelers Rest. These cities already know how important economic and community development is and they have made the commitment to make it happen. Guess what? It’s working. So, if someone tells you that economic and community development isn’t important, let them know you have a different view, and it’s actually a pretty great thing. After all, our competition doesn’t sell their city short, and neither should Simpsonville.

Shop local. Be proud. Support Simpsonville.

and vote November 3rd!

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Simpsonville Votes • The Banner’s Response Report

Ward 3: Mark Rodeffer issues. I hope it’s obvious from all my achievements in Simpsonville that I do have other goals and vision for Simpsonville besides improving communication. A downtown master plan is also high on my list, but the end product will be so much better with team work and communication. DESCRIBE ONE GOAL YOU’D LIKE TO ACHIEVE SHOULD YOU BE ELECTED. My initial focus as a Simpsonville City Council person will be to bring a more conversational city government to citizens. I envision and will strive for a government that is proactively providing information to the public about city matters. The government process can be frustrating to the public. I have personally experienced that with Simpsonville. I want to make that process friendlier by using today’s technology and methods to communicate better. A comprehensive communication plan, including various methods, will reach a wider audience and in turn will help council members serve their city. It’s also important for Council members to reiterate that communication by being present at city, chamber, and other functions. It’s important to attend ribbon cuttings and welcome businesses to the City. As we communicate better as a city we will reach better solutions for any

LIST PAST ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN OFFICE OR OF RELEVANCE TO THE SEAT. City of Simpsonville: 2015 - 2013, Planning Commission, Elected as chair in 2014 and 2015 2012, Appointed to Citizens Advisory Committee Simpsonville Chamber of Commerce: 2015 - 2013, Sippin’ in Simpsonville Event Chair 014, Chair, Main Street 2 Chapter 2013, Citizen of the Year Award Other Accomplishments

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR CITY TO A NEW RESIDENT?

ANYTHING ADDITIONAL YOU WOULD LIKE VOTERS TO KNOW?

Simpsonville is my home. It’s special in many ways. I live close enough to the clock tower to walk to dinner at Franks, grab coffee at the Exchange, have an ice cream at The Ice Cream Station. This City offers all the conveniences necessary for basic needs, grocery, etc. within a few minutes and also the convenience to major metro areas by car in just a few hours. Vacationing on the beach or in the mountains can be accomplished in half a days drive. World class entertainment can be found right here at Heritage Park. Greenville county has top rated schools, and our City services are second to none.

I have demonstrated my commitment to Simpsonville in both service and community projects, taking heed of a quote by Henry Ford: “You can’t build a reputation on what you are going to do.” Over the past few years, I have been instrumental in building the Sippin’ in Simpsonville series to what it is today. I currently serve as the chair of the planning commission. My company, mediaMark, produces both the Simpsonville Honors Flag Field and Bacon Labor Day. This year’s Bacon Labor Day can account for an economic impact to the Simpsonville area in excess of $100,000. The success of these projects took determination and hard work; teamwork and collaboration. We will see success in building businesses and our community as we objectively focus on what our city needs. Check Mark Rodeffer for Simpsonville, Ward 3.

FIND OUT MORE

2015 - 2012, Kiwanis member, 2015 Eastside Board Member

mark@checkmark4simpsonville.com

2015 - 2014, Bacon Labor Day

checkmark4simpsonville.com

013 - 2012, Simpsonville 2 Honor Flag Field

facebook.com/checkMark4Simpsonville

Guaranteed Services Free Estimates Over 15 Years Experience SUPERIOR PEST SOLUTIONSSC.COM

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Simpsonville Votes • The Banner’s Response Report

Ward 3: Jenn Hulehan Education, 2015. Chair, Marketing Committee, National Association for Developmental Education, present.

President, South Carolina Departments of English, 20122013.

I am committed to excellence in everything I do. This is why I’ve been given progressively more responsibility over the eleven years of my career at Tri-County, and why I’ve been elected to several institutional, state, and national leadership positions.

Chair, Tri-County Cultural Enrichment Series Committee, 2005-2012.

It’s also why I’ve been recognized with a number of honors & awards, including:

Secretary, South Carolina Association for Developmental Education, 2013. DESCRIBE ONE GOAL YOU’D LIKE TO ACHIEVE SHOULD YOU BE ELECTED. If elected, one of my goals would be to make economic development a top priority. It is vitally important to identify and implement strategies for promoting retention and expansion of existing businesses as well as facilitating opportunities for new businesses. LIST PAST ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN OFFICE OR OF RELEVANCE TO THE SEAT. I have spent my career in public service, working for the State of South Carolina in Higher Education. I have also served the public in a number of volunteer efforts, including serving for several years as a volunteer Guardian ad Litem, working on behalf of and representing children in foster care. I am a recognized leader in both my professional life and in my community, and I believe that leadership will be an asset to the Simpsonville City Council. In my professional life, I have held a number of leadership roles: Department Head for Comprehensive Studies at Tri-County Technical College, 2012-present. You can read more about what that includes here. Freshman Seminar and College Skills Coordinator at Tri-County Technical College, 2007-present. President, South Carolina Association for Developmental

In addition to demonstrated leadership, I will bring to city council a commitment to excellence:

Co-Director, Institute in Technical Communication (ITC), 2006.

South Carolina Technical Education Association Educator of the Year, 2015.

In our neighborhood, I have committed to community and progress. I have helped to organize a number of community efforts, including:

Two-time nominee for the Outstanding First-Year Student Advocate Award (a national award), 2008 and 2010.

The Westwood Summer Potluck

Excellence in Service Award, TriCounty Technical College, 2007.

The Westwood Halloween Party (and pre-party) I have been recognized for my contribution to The Simpsonville Farmer’s Market.

I have also addressed city council or its representatives as an advocate on a number of community issues, including: The Chamber of Commerce/ SAFI proposal for use of the Simpsonville Elementary School building The Farmer’s Market The 2014-2015 Fiscal Year budget The Simpsonville Museum of Revolutionary History The proposed changes to the Animal Ordinance

Commitment to Professional Development Award, 2004.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR CITY TO A NEW RESIDENT? People in Upstate South Carolina often refer to our city as “Simpleville.” “Simpleville:” a throwback to a simpler time. The nickname alludes to Simpsonville’s small-town charm. I think it’s a fitting moniker in many ways. But Simpsonville also offers all the amenities of a larger city. It really is “community perfected.” ANYTHING ADDITIONAL YOU WOULD LIKE VOTERS TO KNOW? If elected, I pledge to do the following: Be open and responsive to citizens. Do my homework: conduct careful and thorough research, consult with experts, and solicit citizen feedback before voting on any issue before council. Always vote in the best interests of the city and her citizens.

I am ready now to bring my demonstrated leadership skills and experience and my commitment to excellence to the Simpsonville City Council, where I hope to make a bigger impact on this city I love.

FIND OUT MORE jenn4ward3@gmail.com Jenn4Ward3.com twitter.com/jenn4ward3 facebook.com/Jenn4Ward3

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Simpsonville Political Events Campaign Launch Party: Matthew Gooch for Simpsonville Ward 5

“Let’s celebrate the launch of the 2015 campaign. Join me and your neighbors at Southern Galleries on E. Curtis Street, Saturday September 19 at 6:30 for dessert foods and friends.” WHEN: Saturday, September 19 at 6:30 pm WHERE: S outhern Galleries 108 East Curtis Street, Simpsonville, SC 29681 MORE INFO: facebook.com/ events/702423913190629

Legislative Affairs Committee Introductory Meeting: Simpsonville Chamber Members

“It should last about an hour and will cover the general structure and purpose of the group. It will be open to all Chamber members who are interested in learning more, and a sign-up sheet will be distributed for those who wish to commit to the group.” WHEN: Monday, September 21 at noon WHERE: C hamber board room, 100 West Trade Street, Simpsonville MORE INFO: facebook.com/ events/702423913190629

City of Simpsonville: Committee Meetings

WHEN: Tuesday, September 22 at 6pm WHERE: S impsonville City Hall 118 N.E. Main Street Simpsonville, SC 29681 MORE INFO: simpsonville.com/standingcommittee-meetings.html

Campaign BBQ for Janice Curtis, Matthew Gooch, Jenn Hulehan, and Ken Cummings

This event will be open to the voting public. WHEN: Tuesday, September 29 at 6pm WHERE: Poinsettia, additional details TBD MORE INFO: Follow online at facebook.com/ tsblocal for details when available

Campaign BBQ for Jenn Hulehan

This event will be open to the voting public. WHEN: Saturday, October 10, time TBD WHERE: Westwood, additional details TBD MORE INFO: Follow online at facebook.com/ tsblocal for details when available

City of Simpsonville: Council Meeting WHEN: Tuesday, October 13 at 6:30pm WHERE: Simpsonville City Hall 118 N.E. Main Street Simpsonville, SC 29681 MORE INFO: simpsonville.com

Drop-in for Janice Curtis

This event will be held in Hunter’s Woods and open to the voting public. WHEN: Friday, October 23, time TBD WHERE: Additional details TBD MORE INFO: Follow online at facebook.com tsblocal for details when available

Simpsonville Candidates Forum

“We will have a moderator ask the candidates questions prepared by the League of Women Voters. The questions will not be distributed in advance. We will also gather questions from the audience and as time permits, we will use these questions. The first question will give the candidates two (2) minutes to introduce themselves to the audience. There will also be time (from 8-8:30) for people to meet the candidates and talk one on one.” WHEN: Monday, October 26, 7:00pm - 8:30pm WHERE: Simpsonville City Park, Community Building 108 East Curtis Street, Simpsonville, SC 29681 MORE INFO: facebook.com/ events/173993586267049

City of Simpsonville: Committee Meetings WHEN: Tuesday, October 27 at 6pm WHERE: Simpsonville City Hall 118 N.E. Main Street Simpsonville, SC 29681 MORE INFO: simpsonville.com/standingcommittee-meetings.html

ADD TO THIS LIST: SEND YOUR CAMPAIGN EVENT TO INFO@SIMPSONVILLEBANNER.COM All are welcome to submit public events.

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Brown and Pam Garrett purchased this Westwood home on Seminole Dr. in 1970

Local History

Two homes on Alder Drive in the 1970s, from the Hutchings Family

Andrew Staton, andrew@simpsonvillebanner.com

Remembering “Old” Westwood and West Georgia Heights It seems fitting to follow up last issue’s article about the history of Poinsettia in Simpsonville’s Ward 1 by discussing the history of two other neighborhoods that fall into Ward 3. The “Old” Westwood/West Georgia Heights area seems like a natural choice, although Westwood is actually spread across Wards 3, 4 and 6. However, detailing the history of the entire Westwood area would be a massive undertaking for several reasons. While some subdivisions like Poinsettia were constructed on one large former estate, Westwood covers a much larger area made up of several former properties, each with an interesting history of its own. The northern area of Westwood (the area just below West Georgia Road) has a surprisingly different story than most of the subdivision. The documented history of the land dates back to the very beginning

of the 20th century, when M. H. Thackston sold his property to John W. Cash and his wife Edith on December 28, 1908, for the sum of $3,900. In this deed, Mr. Thackston states that he had previously sold off portions of his approximately 83-acre piece of land to J. L. Smith Jr. and J. M. Richardson – both of whom are known to have previously owned other parts of Westwood. John Wesley Cash and Edith Leslie Cash owned and tended to the land for over 30 years, until John passed away in 1941 and Edith in 1948. Marjorie Cash Templeton, John and Edith’s daughter who inherited the property, chose to sell the property for $9000 in a deed dated July 5, 1949. The property was purchased by James W. Henderson and his wife Amy; they owned the land for just over ten years.

On April 24, 1961, James W. Henderson sold his property to Bill Franklin Reeves for the amount of $21,273. Mr. Reeves made the decision to begin developing the 81-acre property, laying out streets and beginning construction on a number of houses. According to Dianne Reeves Edge – the daughter of Bill Reeves (who passed away in 2003) – Bill was of part Cherokee descent, and therefore chose to give Native American names to several of his newly created streets. These streets – Blackhawk Drive, Seminole Drive, Cherokee Drive and Cheyenne Dr. – are still so named today. Collectively, these streets laid out by Bill Reeves became known as West Georgia Heights. In addition to this development, Bill Reeves is known for a development on the other side of Simpsonville, between East Georgia Road and Fowler Road. In this neighborhood, he named

the streets after his three children, Dianne, Lonnie and Gary. In a deed dated October 28, 1969, Bill Reeves sold his development for $33,000 to Builders and Developers, Inc., owned by Ralph Hendricks. Having the larger vision for Westwood in mind, Hendricks continued purchasing additional properties in the area to form the large subdivision as we know it today. The entire Westwood/ West Georgia Heights area combines to form a large section of Simpsonville’s population. Many residents may not realize it, but the voting impact from these wellestablished neighborhoods has the potential to be tremendous. Thank you to Dianne Reeves Edge for her assistance with this article, and thank you to Lou Hutchings and Pam Garrett for the photographs.

Follow Andrew Staton’s work at facebook.com/SimpsonvilleGenealogy

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Mauldin News Mauldin Cultural Center and GHS Announce Partnership Press Release In an effort to incorporate health and wellness into the Mauldin community, the Mauldin Cultural Center and Greenville Health System’s Hillcrest campus have announced a five-year partnership aimed at encouraging healthy activities in the daily lives of Mauldin residents.

“The Mauldin Cultural Center exists to build our community on every level, not just in the arts. By partnering with GHS Hillcrest, we’re encouraging visitors to think about community wellness as a part of our future growth and development,” said Trey Eubanks, City Administrator.

As part of this partnership, GHS Hillcrest will sponsor the walking trail that surrounds the Mauldin Cultural Center. The walking trail offers visitors a way to incorporate daily wellness while enjoying public art and a veteran’s memorial. GHS Hillcrest will also offer a Kids Zone at the annual Mauldin BBQ cook-off, encouraging children and families to remain active during the event. Additionally, GHS Hillcrest will have use of the facility to host community health-related events, such as lunch and learns.

This partnership also supports the Mauldin Cultural Center’s One Mauldin, One Vision campaign. The campaign focuses on several core improvements to the cultural center, including the creation of an innovation studio and a green room, upgrades to the outdoor amphitheater, and overall safety improvements to the building. To learn more about the campaign and its components, visit www. mauldinculturalcenter.org/ onevision.

Dr. Eric Bour and Mayor Dennis Raines

Mauldin Garden Club Begins 2015-16 Year Tammy Barber

The Mauldin Garden Club announces 2015/2016 Board of Directors. President: Tammy Barber, VP/Program Chair: Pam Davis, Treasurer: R.C. Jones, Recording Secretary: Linda Susi, and Corresponding Secretary: Dolores DiSimone. The Mauldin Garden Club is a great way to learn from Master Gardeners, landscape architects, and garden enthusiasts. The September speaker was Master Gardener and butterfly expert Ginger Kopka, who spoke on how to create a yard to attract butterflies year-round. The upcoming October speaker will

be Master Gardener Hedy Dreskin speaking on, “Getting ready for Fall from the outside in.” If you are interested in attending a meeting to learn more, the Mauldin Garden Club meets the second Tuesday of the month, September through May. Meetings are from 7:00 - 8:00 PM in the “Rotary Room” at the Mauldin Cultural Center located at 101 East Butler Road. Annual dues are $35.00 which covers participation in club activities. Visit mauldingardenclub.org for more information.

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Sugar, Aging and Chronic Diseases What You Need to Know! Dr. Elliot Hirshorn, New Life Functional Neurology & Endocrinology You work hard all day long. Ten hours at the office. Cleaning the house. Chauffeuring the kids. Regardless of your daily activities, you put in the time and effort and feel like you deserve some quality rest and relaxation. You would also appreciate a little boost of energy now and then too, right? So, what do you do? You pop open a cool, crisp, refreshing bottle of soda. What’s your favorite flavor? Dr. Pepper? Mountain Dew? Pepsi? Root beer? Coca Cola? My weakness is vanilla cream soda. Oh man, I can taste it now as I type these words. Sugary beverages, sodas being the most prevalent, are an easy way to refresh and refuel… or so we think. The caffeine and sugar gives us a boost to last… at least until we need another one. In reality, however, not only do these sugary beverages not fully and lastingly satisfy our thirst nor satiate our need for fuel, but they can have lasting negative effects on our overall health. So, they really are just a mirage. They seem like they are helpful in the moment, but you’ll always need just one more. And each successive sip further drives your metabolism and overall wellbeing into a tailspin. Enough rhetoric, let’s look at the research. One of the most interesting studies to date investigating the long term health consequences of sugary beverages is one involving the telomeres of your DNA. Telomeres… ever heard of them? If you know about DNA, it has a double helix shape – it’s a long strand. At each end of the strand there is a buffer zone called a telomere. You can think of it like the plastic cap at the end of the shoelace. It protects it from coming unraveled. During the course of your life, due to the wear and tear of creating new cells, the telomeres begin to get shorter. Shorter telomeres are associated with aging, poor lifestyle and increased stress. Get this… not only do sugary beverages give you excess calories and cause weight gain, but they also can lead to insulin resistance (precursor to diabetes), oxidative stress (damage to cells and DNA) and inflammation (a marker of almost all chronic health conditions). Insulin resistance, oxidative stress and

inflammation are all correlated with shorter telomeres. Shorter telomeres can lead to cardiovascular disease, diabetes and some cancers. Don’t believe me? Let’s look at the data… For every 20 oz daily sugary beverage intake, you age by 4.6 years because of its impact on shortening your telomeres. Everyone knows smoking is bad for you, right? You say, “Well, I don’t smoke, so I’m good.” Not so fast. Smoking reduces telomeres such that you age by 4.6 years too. That’s right… sugary beverages so impact your health that they age you as much as smoking cigarettes! Is there hope? Absolutely, there’s hope! It’s fairly straightforward. Don’t smoke and don’t consume a bunch of sugar, especially liquid sugar (and yes, that includes sweet tea, my southern friends!). While it’s clear that avoiding certain things can help prevent shortening of telomeres, you may be wondering if you can do anything to lengthen your telomeres. Why, yes, you can! Regular exercise has been shown to your telomeres longer. Not only can you avoid premature aging by eliminating things that shorten your telomeres, but you can also add to their length with daily exercise. So get out there and get to it! But when you get back, lay off the soda, the sweet tea and the smokes! 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 doctor-patient 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

www.RenewingFunction.com

Meet the Genco Team:

Brandon Parrott is a native of Athens, Georgia, but says he grew up “a little bit of everywhere.” He is a veteran of Desert Storm and was awarded a Bronze Star with the Oak Leaf Cluster. He is a father of four, and a proud grandparent to three, and an avid Michigan fan.

THANK YOU

Brandon has been with Genco Pools

years helping manage the year. to our Summer Staff. Wishing eachfor of 14 you a successful school retail store, the summer staff, and the warehouse. His vast knowledge and experience with swimming pools make him the go-to for many of our long-time customers.

/GencoPoolsandSpas 1217 NE Main Street • Simpsonville, SC 29681

864.967.POOL GENCOPOOLS.COM

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ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT OYSTERS, LOW-COUNTRY BOIL, AND BOTTOMLESS BEER

Upcoming Events in the Golden Strip: Trains, Trains & More Trains

presented by the Greater Mauldin Chamber of Commerce

Thursday, October 1st 5:30 PM Willow Creek Golf Club Tickets Sold at the Simpsonville Chamber of Commerce 100 West Trade Street THIS EVENT IS OPEN TO EVERYONE! Tickets $55

WHEN: Thursday, September 11, 12, 13 and 18, 19 WHERE: Mauldin Cultural Center, 101 E Butler Rd., Mauldin About: This wildly popular annual event rolls into the Mauldin Cultural Center yet again on September 11 and runs through September 19. Come enjoy one of the largest miniature train exhibits in the Southeast…for FREE! MORE INFO: mauldinculturalcenter.org

Farm Fresh Fair 2015 See page 3 South Greenville Fair See page 3 SOOIE | 5th Annual Mauldin BBQ Cook-Off presented by the Greater Mauldin Chamber of Commerce Friday, September 25 | 6-9pm and Saturday, September 26 | 11am-3pm Mauldin Cultural Center, 101 E Butler Rd., Mauldin About: The 5th Annual Mauldin BBQ Cook-Off is held September 25 & 26. Featuring over 20 BBQ teams from around the state, live music, and the GHS Kids Zone. MORE INFO: mauldinbbq.com

Ladies Night at Sheila’s Lingerie “Breast Cancer Awareness Month is right around the corner and our Ladies Night event will “kick off” the month! It will include food, fun, pampering, prizes, fellowship and of course raise money for Breast Cancer Research! This is a FREE event and you won’t want to miss it!” WHEN: Friday, September 25 from 7:00pm - 9:00pm WHERE: Sheila’s Sheer Elegance Lingerie 104 South Main St - Suite #1, Simpsonville SC 29681 MORE INFO: facebook.com/events/409401815922287

Race for the Cure: Now at Heritage Park WHEN: Survivor Breakfast: 7am On-site Registration: 7 am- 9am 5k Race: 9 am WHERE: Heritage Park in Simpsonville MORE INFO: scmountainstomidlands.info-komen.org

“Simpsonville Residents” Picnic “Please join your neighbors for a picnic at the park. Bring a sandwich if you like and a side or dessert to share. Will try to get utensils, paper products, drinks and ice etc donated. Bring a guitar if you like. Going to have some simple games for the children. Bring hula hoops, jump ropes etc” WHEN: Sunday, October 4, 5:00pm - 8:00pm WHERE: Heritage Park Vip Tent Amphitheatre Area MORE INFO: facebook.com/events/1653484528200153/

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Come Help Us Celebrate

GRAND OPENING MAIN STREET FOUNTAIN INN September 24th 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Fountain Inn to Debut Main Street

Jenny Clark

Main Street in Fountain Inn is looking freshly charming after thoughtful planning and execution of the Streetscape project. The Grand Opening will take place on Thursday, September 24th, from 5:30 to 9:00 pm. Special guests will include South Carolina Lieutenant Governor Henry McMaster, Miss South Carolina Daja Dial, and more state and local dignitaries. Music will be provided by the Flashbacks and participating shops will be open and offering refreshments.

MORE UPCOMING EVENTS IN DOWNTOWN FOUNTAIN INN:

Concert presented by “The Flashbacks”

32nd Annual Aunt Het Festival WHEN: Saturday, October 3, 9:00am - 5:00pm WHERE: Main Street Fountain Inn, SC MORE INFO: facebook.com/events/976876652332884

Special Guests:

The Honorable Henry McMaster Lieutenant Governor of South Carolina and

Miss South Carolina Daja Dial *Free refreshments will be located in participating Merchant shops.

GN-0100780120

“Arts &Crafts, food & more food, kids amusement rides, music by Arvie Bennett, Arvie Jr. Band, Classic car show with loads of trophies to award. Very Family oriented.”

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Stop Digging Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late to Fix Your Finances Jason Ward, Attorney at Law Although I categorize myself as bankruptcy attorney, I consider a bankruptcy the last option. I don’t see anything wrong with filing a bankruptcy and it is often necessary to provide a fresh start; however, with the social stigma and credit damage I avoid filing bankruptcies when possible. Unfortunately, many times a bankruptcy is a debtor’s only option because he simply waited too long to do anything about his situation. Below are a few reasons you should take steps to fix your financial situation sooner rather than later.

most people. However, let’s assume that someone fails to address this same $2,000 debt for months or even years and the debt is allowed to grow. After a few years of more borrowing, penalties, interest, and maybe even attorney’s fees, the debt has grown to $10,000. To settle this $10,000 debt a person would have to make a lump sum payment of around $5,000. Most people in debt can’t make such a payment, thus a bankruptcy has become their only option because they waited too long to address their debt problems.

More Expensive to Climb Out of Debt The number one reason a person should not wait to do something about their finances is because the longer they wait the more expensive and less likely fixing their situation becomes. An experienced lawyer can usually convince a creditor to settle their debt for a lump sum payment of around fifty percent (or less) of the debt owed. However, the longer a person struggles to make payments the more the debt grows. Obviously, a larger debt requires a higher settlement payment.

More Likely to Lose Secured Property Secured assets are assets that have a lien on them such as a house or an automobile. The creditors who have these liens take the liens in order to protect themselves against non-payment. This means that these creditors do not have to wait to be paid, but can seize the property, sell it, and apply the proceeds to their debt. Creditors would rather not have to exercise their rights against the property, but will if they feel it is the only way to get paid. It is important not to get behind on these debts because once the creditors initiate a property recovery process they are not likely to stop the process to give a person a chance to pay. Once creditors

For example, a debt of $2,000 dollars can be settled for a lump sum payment of $1,000, which is manageable for

determine they will only see a recovery by repossessing a car or foreclosing on a house, they rarely change their mind. If someone gets behind on a secured debt it is important they are proactive and attempt to work out something with a creditor before they choose to seize the property. Furthermore, a Chapter 13 bankruptcy allows a person to catch up their missed payments (arrears) over a 3-to 5-year period. This means that you can stop a foreclosure by proposing to pay all of your missed payments over a period of 3-5 years while maintaining your regular monthly mortgage payments. This proposal to repay must be approved by the Bankruptcy Court. The Bankruptcy Court will only approve this plan if they believe that the person can actually make the proposed payments. Obviously, a person’s ability to make their payments depends on the amount of the payment and the farther behind a person is the more the monthly payment will have to be to catch up. As an example, let’s assume Person A has a $1,000 per month mortgage payment and is 6 months behind on this payment. Also, let’s assume that Person B has a $1,000 per month mortgage payment, but is 15 months behind (which is not nearly as uncommon as one would think). In a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, Person A only has to repay $6,000, whereas Person B has to repay $15,000. Assuming that Person A and Person B both choose to repay their debt over 5 years (60 months), Person A’s Chapter 13 payment

is $100 whereas Person B’s Chapter 13 payment $250. When working on an already tight budget, the extra $150 payment could cause the Bankruptcy Court to deny the Chapter 13 plan. Lose Protected Assets Certain assets are protected under South Carolina Law. For instance, a person’s retirement accounts are protected from creditor’s and can never be taken from a person. However, often times a person in debt will voluntarily remove money from their retirement accounts to pay their bills. Usually this results in delaying the inevitable rather than fixing a person’s financial situation. I always advise my clients to never use their protected assets to pay their bills because it is highly likely that they will still owe the debt and no longer have their retirement accounts. A lose-lose situation for the clients. A person should never turn a protected asset into an unprotected asset, something an experienced debt-relief lawyer can help you with. Contact Us No matter your financial situation, it is important to be proactive. Many people wait until it is too late to take charge. An experienced bankruptcy/debt-relief attorney can help you determine your best course of action, but you can make your path to debt relief much smoother if you don’t wait until it’s too late. If you are in need of the assistance of a debt relief professional don’t hesitate to contact my office at 864-399-7888, email me at Jason@JasonWardLaw.com.

GREENVILLE FOUNTAIN INN VENUSPOE.COM 864-963-0310

Jason Ward, Attorney at Law Family Law, Financial Litigation, Foreclosure Defense, Bankruptcy

Big Firm Experience, Small Town Values Free Consultations Workers’ Compensation Auto & Truck Accidents Wrongful Death Claims Social Security Disability

DaviD F. Sullivan LAW FIRM, LLC.

Wills and Estates | Real Estate 120-C S. Main Street | Simpsonville, SC 864-757-1524 | Fax: 866-276-0750 DavidFSullivanLaw.com

120-B S. Main St. Downtown Simpsonville, SC JasonWardLaw.com FREE CONSULTATIONS

Jason@JasonWardLaw.com

864-399-7888

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Make a Difference for a Child through FIKE Lauren Stoddard In November 2012, the FIKE Center kicked off our mentoring program with 8 mentors at Fountain Inn Elementary. Since then, our program has grown immensely, with 47 children in the Fountain Inn community being matched with mentors during the 2013-2014 school year. However, the need is still great! Right now, there are at least 30 Fountain Inn Elementary students waiting for a mentor. Some have been waiting for a year or more. Do you have 30 minutes a week to make a difference in the life of a child? FIKE partners with Fountain Inn Elementary School, Mentor Greenville and Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Upstate to pair adult volunteer mentors with students who need extra encouragement during the school day. Mentors are mature, caring individuals who are genuinely interested in helping the youth of our community and are suitable role models committed to serving as a guide and a friend for a designated student.

What is required? 1. Attend a mentor training session (less than one hour) 2. Submit an application (that includes background check information) 3. Meet weekly with an assigned student (30 minutes) 4. Conduct meetings with mentee on school grounds during the school day, or off campus through Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Upstate with parent permission 5. Notify school or parent to cancel meeting time if scheduling conflict arises 6. Participate in the program for the entire academic year

What do mentors do?

Questions?

Mentors and students meet during breakfast (7:15-7:45 am), during lunch or at a teacher approved time during the day. If meeting off-campus through Big Brothers Big Sisters, the mentor works with the parent to decide time and place. Mentors provide ongoing support to the educational and personal growth of students during weekly meetings. As role models for students, mentors demonstrate values of dependability, the need for goal setting and the importance of an education.

Contact Lauren Stoddard at 864-6413453 or lauren@fikecenter.com to learn more.

Something New is coming...

fikecenter.com facebook.com/FIKECenter

Vintage Inspired Living.

113 South Main St. Fountain Inn, SC 864-363-5184 shadowwoodcottage.com Tue-Fri: 11:00 am-6:00 pm Sat: 11:00 am-4:00 pm

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Fountain Inn News Daja Dial Places in Top Seven at Miss America Beth Kelley Fann

The current Miss South Carolina, Daja Dial, placed in the top 7 in the Miss America 2016 pageant. Dial served as Miss Fountain Inn in 2014, and Miss Greenville County in 2015. Miss Georgia, Betty Cantrell, won the overall pageant. Dial performed “I Believe” by Fantasia for the talent portion on Sunday night. Her question of the evening — a tough one for South Carolina this year — was on gun violence and a military assault

Fairy Tale at the Farmers Market The wedding reception for Mary-Murk (Tollison) and Tyler Henderson made for a scene straight out of a fairy tale at the Commerce Park Pavilion in Fountain Inn on Saturday night. For information about the venue, please contact Diane Turner at 864-408-9755, Ext. 32, or email diane.turner@fountaininn.org The reception was planned and designed by Gault Tollison.

weapon ban. Dial stated she did not support a ban and advocated for weapons education. Dial won the swimsuit contest earlier in the week, receiving a $1000 scholarship. She was also given the Children’s Miracle Network “Miracle Maker” award for collecting over $32,000. Mrs. Janice Curtis of Simpsonville served as LED for Daja in 2014. “I am extremely proud of Daja. She has worked so hard and taught us all to

believe that anything is possible.” Dial is a health administration student at Clemson University and a graduate of Dorman High. Her platform as Miss SC is awareness of type 1 and 2 diabetes. Her older brother Devin was diagnosed with the disease as a teen. Dial will continue to serve as Miss South Carolina through mid 2016.

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The Growth of Performing Arts From Pelzer to Fountain Inn, and in between, a renaissance is dawning in the Golden Strip.

Ring of Fire: A Rousing Retrospective From the Mill Town Players Last weekend to catch this musical Beth Kelley Fann The Mill Town Players opened their second season in Pelzer with a musical biography of the Man in Black, Johnny Cash. The auditorium was full on the second night of the production, and Executive Artistic Director Will Ragland opened the show with a thank you to patrons and supporters. Over 13,000 attended productions in season one, and season two is off to a strong start. The lead actors in Ring of Fire are husband and wife duo Larry and Katie Rockwell, who portray Johnny and June with a commanding stage presence that honors their story in rich detail. As Johnny, Larry nails the debonair mannerisms of the star, and his movements and easy smile bring forth memories of an era past. A second actor, Levi Orr, captures the younger Cash, and the combined performance alternates seamlessly between the two men as the story of Cash’s life unfolds. Katie Rockwell captures June Carter Cash in looks and sass, and her powerful

vocals remind the audience that there was no Johnny without June. The cast, although small, fills the stage with individual talent that smoothly rounds the story arcs. Callie Nickles artfully supports the feminine on-stage presence, her energetic character helping to portray the trials and the joys that June and Johnny faced in life. Tom Dyer on the banjo, Jordan Hanner on upright bass, and Robert Johnson on drums—each shine in their supportive roles, adding humor, poignancy and warmth at the right moments. Ring of Fire was created by Richard Maltby, Jr. in 2006. The production has the challenge of telling the story of a storyteller, and the Mill Town Players effortlessly weave time and song to bring Cash’s life back to the stage. Sequenced from a story-telling perspective instead of chronologically, the musical numbers performed throughout are at once familiar and freshly weighted in Cash’s life story.

Rousing performances of “Ring of Fire,” “Jackson,” and “Walk the Line” punctuate the tale and transform the clapping, toetapping audience into part of the story. The performance is directed by Mary Nickles, who coordinated the stellar cast with a simple-but-striking set design by Will Ragland. The lighting is flawless, highlighting the varied symbolism in the boxed wood platforms ringing the stage. Tricia Dyar is responsible for the musical direction, and the arrangements feather into one another naturally, matching the ebb and flow of the story. The rhythmic foot tapping of the engaged audience also makes them a part of the production; the soft vibration of the hardwood flooring supporting both the era and energy of the period storyline.

The entire performance is an intimate sojourn through the life of Johnny Cash, made even more poignant by the small venue and dedication of the hometown crew. More than a “must see,” Ring of Fire is a “must experience” for both fans of Cash and those new to his life story and music. Running through September 20, Ring of Fire will be performed at 7:30 pm on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and 3 pm on Sundays. Tickets can be purchased on site or online at milltownplayers.org At just $10 per ticket (or less for students, seniors, and military) a sellout situation may occur again as it did with Grease earlier in the year.

Wildcat Players Ready for 2015-16 Season Led by instructor Reed Halvorson, the Woodmont theatre students are preparing for another exciting season. More on the first show, burst, to come in our October 2 issue. Like the Wildcat Players on Facebook to follow their year at Woodmont High.

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Hillcrest Defeats JL Mann in 9/11 Game Red, white and blue was the student section theme on this 9/11 game night. Hillcrest outlasts a tough JL Mann team, 21-14. Photos by Stephen Moore ÂŠ2015, mooregemsofyou@gmail.com For the full gallery, visit smooregems.smugmug.com

Labor Day Game for Mavs and Wildcats A rain cancellation dimmed the Friday night lights for Mauldin and Woodmont, so the game was moved to Labor Day, September 7. The Mavs took the win, with a final score of 48-16. Photos by Stephen Moore ÂŠ2015.

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Hillcrest Varsity Invitational: Photos The Lady Rams hosted their invitational on Friday, September 11 and Saturday, September 12. Photos by Stephen Moore ÂŠ2015, mooregemsofyou@gmail.com For the full gallery, visit smooregems.smugmug.com Follow the Lady Rams at facebook.com/ HillcrestHighSchoolVolleyballBooster

Second Annual Bacon Labor Day Simpsonville hosted their second annual Bacon Labor Day on September 6 and 7. Early estimates say almost 8,000 attended the bacon themed celebration. Photos by Christy Staton ÂŠ2015

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Biz Buzz

WHAT: The Simpsonville Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a Ribbon Cutting on September 16 to launch p.r.e.p. 60, a physician referred exercise program exclusively at SportsClub Simpsonville. “Participants meet with medical fitness professionals twice per week in small group settings and have full access to all of our amenities. the p.r.e.p. team communicates with patients on a regular basis via email, phone, and in-person contact to monitor attendance, progress, and well-being throughout the program.”

WHAT: Ribbon Cutting for Group Hab. This business combines physical therapy concepts, theories, and principles into fun and energetic group exercise classes. “All programs offered by GroupHab are designed and lead by a licensed physical therapist. By providing physical therapy in a group setting, GroupHab is the link between rehabilitation and wellness.”

WHERE: 667 Main Street Simpsonville, SC 29681 (864)228-8282

WHERE: 845 NE Main St Simpsonville, South Carolina

FIND THEM ONLINE: sportsclubsc.com facebook.com/scsportsclub These events were organized by the

WHEN: Ribbon Cutting Thursday, September 24th at 5:30 PM (also a Business After Hours, that will last until 7:30 PM)

FIND THEM ONLINE: grouphab.com facebook.com/GroupHab

WHAT: “The Villas at Carriage Hills is a quaint community offering luxury, maintenance-free homes in Simpsonville, South Carolina. Our homes were designed for the homebuyer who seeks low-maintenance living, single story architecture, luxury finishes, generous outdoor living areas and a desire for privacy. You’ll find all of this and more at The Villas at Carriage Hills. We have now begun construction and selling our first Phase of home sites - including our first 4 presales. We expect the sales activity to be brisk so call Holly May at (864) 640-1959 to schedule your personal appointment.” WHEN: Ribbon Cutting Saturday, October 3rd at 11:00 AM WHERE: Off of Barker Rd and W Georgia Rd., Simpsonville, South Carolina FIND THEM ONLINE: facebook.com/VillasatCarriageHills More online at SimpsonvilleBanner.com

Lawn Care and Maintenance by

Midtown Lawn Care

Call Fred at 864-409-6199

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Back to School Summer is about done and school is back in session. This means different things for different people. For kids, this means bells ringing, running in the halls, and even some learnin’ might get done. For parents, it’s getting these sunbaked little party animals back into a routine. Bedtimes get stricter and wakeups are earlier. For those of us who work from home, be you a stay at home parent or you have a home office, it means being able to get twice the work done in half the time. In my case, I no longer have to play thrash metal to drown out my kids arguing over who has to let the dogs out. The down side there is, I have to let the dogs out. For my teenage son, there is now more than a half-hour between breakfast and lunch. Back to school has changed lunch completely for all my kids. It is no longer “whatever you can reach in the refrigerator on shelves 2 and 3 or in the pantry on shelves 3 or 4…and, no, you cannot have a Capri Sun. Those are for when we go to the pool.” Now, lunch is either packed or it is two dollars and thirty cents. Normally, it gets packed. My kids never really warmed up to school lunches. Not that their lunch boxes are much better. Sure, the Monday after pay day, I provide a beautiful assortment of their favorite lunch meat and cheese, fresh fruit and a tasty dessert. Ten days later, I’m jamming in peanut butter and jelly, a marginal apple I found under the stove and some packing peanuts. The after-school snack has made its return to our house. Having not eaten for a solid 3 hours, my little darlings come home famished. They describe this appetite as somewhere between a super model on a hunger strike and a sumo wrestler with a tapeworm. Surprisingly, this hunger to end all hungers can usually be vanquished with a yogurt. During the summer, there is no such thing as “Afternoon Snack.” There is “Afternoon Smack.”. That’s

Mark Katarzynski, Columnist

where I start smacking food out of their hands at around two o’clock, because they have been eating nonstop since 11 AM. It sure is quiet during the day now. Almost deafeningly so. Without the constant barrage of “Can I have a popsicle/What’s for dinner/She hit me/Can I watch TV,” I can hear myself think. This isn’t, necessarily, always a plus. I come up with some hokie ideas. Occasionally, I find myself yelling, “We’re out of Popsicles”, to an empty kitchen, just out of force of habit. With the lack of tween-age companionship, our puppies look downright depressed. Of course, how happy can you be on only 18 hours of sleep? Know what else? I have to get my own coffee now! Seriously, it’s kind of a drag. Of course, with my kids in school all day, they know exactly where all the candy that was on the counter went to. My lunch doesn’t change much. I routinely eat the same thing, but while they’re in school, I get to eat all of it…even though I could stand to skip a few bites. There is a noticeable lack of kids playing games at the top of my steps in the hall, but… then…there is a noticeable lack of kids having fun while playing games at the top of my steps, you know, in the hall. And without my little minions running around, I have very little reason to spontaneously break into song and it’s impossible to make anybody laugh when you start dancing like a goof ball…and I do love the sound of their laughs. Yeah…ummm…how many days until Christmas break? Columnist Mark Katarzynski grew up in Erie, Pennsylvania. He moved to Simpsonville in 2012 with his wife, Samantha, and their three children. Besides spending time with his family, he enjoys music, sports and writing his blog ijustwanttotellstories.wordpress.com

Roy & Frances Shelton, Innkeepers

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

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IT’S BACK! HOLY CROSS EPISCOPAL CHURCH PRESENTS

OPEN FOR BUSINESS ON

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 24 | 6-10pm 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. Tickets: $15 in advance, $20 walk-up Ticket link and website coming soon! The Sippin’ In Simpsonville event series is hosted by the businesses of the Main Street Chapter of the Simpsonville Area Chamber of Commerce.

MON-FRI 11AM-8PM SAT 9AM-8PM AND SUNDAY 12-6PM ACROSS FROM VAUGHN’S ON MAIN STREET ONE BLOCK SOUTH OF THE CLOCK TOWER SPONSORING PARTNER

GREENVILLE HEALTH SYSTEM

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