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Palmetto Bank to merge Beth Kelley Fann Wednesday, April 22 brought word that the financial landscape in upstate South Carolina would soon see change. United Community Bank of Blairsville, Georgia, is merging with The Palmetto Bank. At the time of this writing, information on employees and a timeline for the transition was not available, but The Palmetto Bank brand will be replaced by United’s.

The Palmetto Bank has been stalwart in the ever-changing banking business; its stylized green palmetto tree an iconic part of hometowns across nine counties for 109 years. The bank first opened in Laurens County in September of 1906, the creation of J.J. Pluss and J.W. Ferguson. The pair started the bank with just $50,000 in capital - profit from a Laurens grocery store they owned.

The news is good for shareholders of The Palmetto Bank. United Community Bank reports $7.7 billion in total assets and operates 104 offices in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. While the change came as a shock to clients this week, it is motivated by growth for both United and Palmetto and is expected to help advance both institutions in a thick banking market.

For more information on United Community Bank, visit UCBI.com Full press release available at SimpsonvilleBanner.com

Thanks to volunteers, geese receive a 30 day reprieve Beth Kelley Fann

Last Friday homeowners in the Shannon Lakes subdivision received a letter stating that the geese nesting on their shared lake would be killed the next day. The president of the community’s neighborhood association, Gordon Thruston, along with other board members, had contracted a marksman to shoot the geese in order to reduce the population.

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While some residents agreed the geese are a nuisance, others sprang into action. Several attempts to contact Mr. Thruston on Friday were fruitless, and he refused to consider pleas for a humane solution. Izzie’s Pond, a Simpsonville-

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based water fowl rescue organization, used social media to quickly inform the public and organize a protest for early Saturday morning. During the protest, a proposal was submitted to Mr. Thruston. Resident Charlotte Caldwell offered to fund a long term solution, with Goosebusters II and Izzie’s Pond performing the task. The group met with Mr. Thruston, who halted the planned shooting. On Wednesday the neighborhood’s board of directors accepted the joint proposal, giving the group 30 days to implement their plan. izziespond.com goosebusters2.com

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Wildcat Players to debut spring performance Friday Corey Barker Don’t let the title fool you. Arsenic and Old Lace, the play being put into production by Woodmont High School starting Friday April 24th, is a farcical comedy. The comedy may be dark, but there a plenty of laughs for the audience. Reed Halvorson, a theater teacher at Woodmont, recently spoke with me about what this particular play has in store, the talent he is finding, and the aspirations of his students. Not being familiar with Arsenic and Old Lace, I asked Mr. Halvorson what made him gravitate to this particular play. “In theater circles it is very well known. The film version has Cary Grant; it is one of The American Film Institutes top comedies. We are doing a cartoonish take on a larger production.” The play was written in 1940, and centers around two sweet old ladies who are caught in the middle of a web of murders and mysteries. However, Halvorson believes it still has a quality that has never been duplicated in other productions. In terms of the scaling down that Mr. Halvorson mentioned, the size of the final play is intentional. Mr. Halvorson had many of his students graduate last year, so for this production he had to look for new talent. What he found surprised him in the best way possible. “Spots in the play are being

filled by underclassmen and people who have never done a play in their lives.” He speaks to me about the leads of the play, one of which falls into the category of never having done a play. He shares with me that he believes they are some of the truest talents that have ever come through the school. “When those two get together for a scene, it is as good as you are going to find anywhere. They are really really strong.” Halvorson has praise for all of his students. Taking on a comedy is not an easy task, it takes a comedic sensibility and timing. He tells me that his students have risen to the occasion. He is proud of all of them for having a “professional mentality.” Even with this sense of professionalism, it is all still about having fun. “When the kids have a great time, that is what it is all about.” During our conversation, Mr. Halvorson showed me the set for the play. If this is scaled down, then a large production must be even more staggering. The entire stage has been transformed into the house where this play is set. Vibrant hues of purple have been painted on the walls. A (hopefully) fake corpse with a surprising amount of detail. Multiple doorways and a set of French windows complete with a tree outside of them. The set even has its own unique crown molding. A local

theater company allowed the use of a saw that allowed Mr. Halvorson and his students the ability to make crown molding specifically for their set. What is even more impressive is who made the set. “It is 90% student work. We have three very dedicated parent helpers as well.” Students also learn how to make the own props. The group invested in some set pieces that can be used in multiple productions. Mr. Halvorson points out particular pieces that have been used in previous plays. It would be difficult to tell, as everything works so well together. Mr. Halvorson admits, “the set is much more extravagant than planned.” The extravagance pays off. Through the set and the way the Mr. Halvorson speaks about his students it is evident that everyone is dedicated to making this production of Arsenic and Old Lace a success. “There have been no issues with time and hard work. Even the parents are on board 100%. We have had zero issues the entire year.” Mr. Halvorson also brings his dedication to the production. He tells me about the nights and weekends he has spent making sure that everything has gone according to plan. His attention to detail is admirable. He wants everything to be perfect down to the playbills and the

t-shirts for the production. Mr. Halvorson is hoping that this dedication pays off in the long run. He not only teaches acting and drama. He is also imparting technical theater skills. Students learn about lighting, costuming, wigs, makeup. “They get what it takes to work. If they make the decisions that they want this to be their career, they are ready for it.” He tells me that some of the students have already started to work with some local community theaters. This partnership with theaters in the community gives Woodmont’s drama department access to resources that other schools might not have. This community involvement has Mr. Halvorson feeling very grateful. “In the community, the Wildcat Player name is really solid.” In all, it appears that Arsenic and Old Lace is shaping up to be something that transcends the “high school theater” name. From the sets to the acting, Woodmont isn’t resting on their laurels. At the time of

my conversation with Mr. Halvorson, everything was in place for the opening. They were ahead of schedule. “We were already able to get the floor painter, which usually happens opening day.” The students are also ready. “During rehearsal all they needed was one time through. It is about the polish, fine tuning, and tightening up. The students are doing everything they need to earn and get laughter.” Arsenic and Old Lace opens at Woodmont High School Friday April 24th.

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Hillcrest prepares for Little Shop of Horrors Corey Barker Within the first few minutes of meeting Todd Janssen, the theater teacher at Hillcrest High School, he asks me to follow him to the school’s costume closet. There is a student waiting there who needs a suit jacket for his part in the play. The two banter back and forth until finally settling on the jacket the student will wear in the show. This is the first glimpse I get of how dedicated Mr. Janssen is to his craft, as well as his students. Opening May 1st, Hillcrest High School will be putting on a production of “The Little Shop of Horrors.” “Even last year I knew I wanted to do this one. I wanted to do a musical. This show is a lot of fun. It is scary and funny and super sweet. The music is great. It is really a classic that gets attention.” This was Mr. Janssen’s reply to my question of how he landed on “Little Shop” for his spring production. It was clear from his thoughtful response that he puts a significant amount of thought into choosing the plays that will go on the stage at Hillcrest. “It is tricky. You have to think about something that will appeal to the audience without ruffling feathers and that is fun. You are taking something small and making it bigger.” Making something bigger is exactly what Mr. Janssen is doing with his theater classes.

I spoke with some of the students participating in the play. They had only positive things to say about their teacher and their peers. One student, Dakota, had this to say: “Outside of practice we are all unique and very different, but we can come be goofballs together. I have been in drama since I was a freshman. Under Mr. Janssen the theater department has grown drastically.” Some students took the opportunity to tell about how their time in drama has been a growing experience for them. A student, Daniel, told me “Before theater, I wouldn’t talk to anyone. It pulled me out of my box; it moved me out of my comfort zone.” One common thread ran through the comments that the students had, and that was the sense of camaraderie that had been established amongst them. Maggie who is in her second year in theater, had this to say. “There are so many friends who have become like family to me here. We all treat each other like family.” It is logical that bonds would develop between the students, they spend a lot of time together. The schedule is molded around that of the students to make sure that everyone can commit as much time as possible. Rehearsals began in February, however, winter weather threw a wrench in the schedule. Days

had to be missed, and so the original opening date of April 10 had to be pushed back. That didn’t keep this team down. Mr. Janssen expressed how proud he was of his team. Typically, two months is great; it is the sweet spot. We are hitting exactly where we need to be. Lines are memorized. Everyone sounds good and it looks great.” Mr. Janssen and the students are also responsible for the play looking as aesthetically pleasing as it does. The troupe builds their own sets and props. In fact, Mr. Janssen has re-purposed a storage room into the school as a makeshift workshop so that the students can make the things necessary for the play. While visiting with Mr. Janssen and his students, I had the chance to see the set they had created up close. It is a sight to behold. Mr. Janssen and his students aren’t the only stars of the show though. “There has been some awesome parent help. Without it, none of this would happen.” Mr. Janssen says that even from last year, parent involvement is on the rise. Parents have donated their time and resources to make sure that the show goes off without a hitch. On a broader scope, the community has also been a large help. “Apparently there is buzz about what we are doing here. I love community involvement, coming together to make something great. We

love what we have, and we are always looking for more.” Perhaps the most profound moment of the afternoon came when Mr. Janssen opened up about his students.”This is a giant time commitment. In the end this is all about having fun. It breeds a sense of friendship, and builds strong bonds. This is a family.” This sentiment is echoed by his students. Mr. Janssen goes on to say, “Seeing a lot of them, pouring everything they have into it, and then getting a lot out of it. It is so worth it, no matter how much I get stressed out. The best thing is seeing them proud of themselves. We we are losing our seniors this year as they graduate, some of them have been with the program all four years.” Despite being a relatively new addition to the Hillcrest roster, it is very apparent that Mr. Janssen is already dedicated to giving his students his all. After seeing the respect shown towards him at rehearsal, it is safe to say the students are reciprocating that respect. As one student told me, this

is only the beginning for the Hillcrest drama department. There are so many more things in store. Next year, Mr. Janssen plans to broaden the scope of what a drama class can be. The students will choose a play at the beginning of the term and then produce every aspect of the show. Mr. Janssen explains that there is so much more to theater than just the acting. With novel ideas such as that, it is exciting to see what the students at Hillcrest will do. I was given the privilege of seeing a sneak peek of the show while visiting Mr. Janssen and his students. If my preview was any indication, this production will be a fun evening filled with music and excitement.

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Woodmont Wrap Up The Lady Wildcats hosted the Laurens Raiders this week. Final score was 9-2, Raiders. In Baseball, the Hanna took the win 14-1 over the wildcats. Photos by Stephen Moore ©2015. View more at smooregems.smugmug.com

Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 onions, thinly sliced 2 bunches Swiss chard, trimmed and chopped (about 14 cups)

1/4 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper flakes Salt and pepper 8 ounces wholewheat spaghetti

3 garlic cloves, minced

1/4 cup pitted kalamata olives, coarsely chopped

Whole-Wheat Spaghetti with Swiss Chard and Pecorino Cheese

1 (14 1/2-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices

2 tablespoons freshly grated Pecorino cheese

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1/4 cup dry white wine

2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts

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Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add onions and saute until tender for about 8 minutes. Add swiss and saute until it wilts for about 2 minutes. Add the garlic and saute until fragrant for about 1 minute. Stir in the tomatoes with their juices, wine and red pepper flakes and bring to a siammer. Cover and simmer until the tomatoes begin to break down and the swiss chard is tender, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes. Season the swiss chard mixture,

to taste, with salt and pepper. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until tender, stirring frequently for about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the spaghetti and add to the swiss chard mixture. Toss to combine. Transfer the pasta to serving bowls. Sprinkle the olives, cheese, and pine nuts and serve. For more information on this recipe and healthy cooking, Pelham Medical Center’s clinical nutrition manager, Priscilla Dhas, recommends visiting www.cookingchanneltv.com/ recipes.

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Sign up for our e-newsletter at SpartanburgRegional.com and watch all the latest episodes at YouTube.com/SpartanburgRegional

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. It is easy to cure if diagnosed and treated early. With Skin Cancer Awareness Month in May, Gibbs Cancer Center & Research Institute wants to help you protect your skin with free skin cancer screenings. Come show us some skin on Saturday, May 2, at Greer Family Fest and meet John Korman, MD, dermatologist with Medical Group of the Carolinas. Reduce Your Skin Cancer Risk: Do not burn • Do not tan or use UV tanning booths • Cover up with clothing • Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day • Examine your skin head-to-toe every month • See your physician every year for a professional skin exam

Pelham Medical Center Greer Family Fest

Friday, May 1 • 6 – 10 p.m. Saturday, May 2 • 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Downtown Greer

Punctuate Your Health: Move!

Tuesday, May 5 • 6:30 – 8 p.m. Pelham Medical Center Medical Office Building Community Room

The Pelham Medical Center Greer Family Fest is the Upstate’s favorite family festival. This two-day event features a Creation Station, KidsZone, food court, more than 150 vendors throughout the festival and live music on the main stage. Join PMC for free screenings, giveaways and much more. Visit Spartanburg Regional.com/Pelham-Events to learn more. Join our clinical experts for the first in our four-part series, Punctuate Your Health. Learn how to keep your bones and joints strong, as well as the most common orthopaedic disorders for women including osteoporosis, arthritis and bursitis. A healthy dinner will be provided at this free event. Register online at SpartanburgRegional.com/Pelham-Events. Spartanburg Regional’s mobile mammography unit performs screening mammograms across Spartanburg, Cherokee and Union counties. Call 864-560-7777 to register.

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Medical Group of the Carolinas locations: May 7: Family Medicine – Duncan May 11: Immediate Care Center – Westside

Pelham Carb Counters

Tuesday, May 19 • 5 – 6 p.m. Pelham Medical Center Medical Office Building Community Room

Better Breathers Club

Thursday, May 21 • 2 – 3 p.m. Pelham Medical Center Medical Office Building Community Room

This free support group is intended for people currently living with diabetes or who are at high risk of developing the disease. Certified diabetes educators lead the discussion and answer questions. For more information, visit SpartanburgRegional.com/Pelham-Events. Part of the American Lung Association’s Better Breather’s Club, this support group is for anyone living with a chronic lung disease and their families or caregivers. Learn how to meet the challenges chronic lung disease brings to daily life. Visit SpartanburgRegional.com/Pelham-Events or contact Betty Ann Riggins at 864-361-4102 for more information.

May is also National Stroke Awareness Month and Pelham Medical Center (PMC) is increasing awareness and educating people about stroke. Signs and symptoms of stroke include: Paralysis or weakness on one side of the body • Problems with thinking, awareness, attention, learning, judgment, and memory • Problems understanding or forming speech • Difficulty controlling or expressing emotions • Numbness or strange sensations • Pain in the hands and feet. If you experience any of these symptoms, call 9-1-1. BL_0515

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Weaving a Close-Knit Community: Simpsonville’s Mill Village Andrew Staton

Throughout the South Carolina Upstate, every town seems to have at least one old cotton mill and an accompanying mill village. While we can be proud that Simpsonville’s mill and surrounding neighborhood is once again buzzing with life, many of these areas have not been so lucky, and have fallen into a state of disrepair. Have you ever wondered why there were so many of these communities, and how they came about?

years the mill industry was the biggest employer in most Upstate cities (which remained the case until the 1950s). In 1908, several leaders of Simpsonville rallied to ask Edward F. Woodside, an executive from the PMC, to open a mill in Simpsonville. Joined by his brother John, the Woodside brothers opened Simpsonville Cotton Mill, and in 1911 merged it with mills in Fountain Inn and Greenville to form the Woodside Cotton Mills.

In 1873, Henry Pinckney Hammett established the Piedmont Manufacturing Company at Garrison Shoals, on the Saluda River. The PMC was the first cotton mill of its kind in the Upstate, and grew by leaps and bounds to be one of the largest textile operations in the world by Hammett’s death in 1891. One by one, the influence of the PMC spread throughout the Upstate, and within twenty

With any mill that was built throughout the Upstate, a mill village was sure to follow. Mill workers needed an inexpensive place to live, so mill executives followed the example of New England (where mills and mill villages had been common for many years) and created an entire community surrounding the mill. The New England influence on the southern mill village concept led to

the style of the houses being uniquely inspired by colonial New England “saltbox” houses. Many historians and architects credit Upstate mill villages to be the only place that this style of architecture can be found in South Carolina.

could essentially be mailordered from a catalog and constructed from a kit.

While some Upstate communities constructed the houses in their entire mill village to have the exact same appearance and layout (Ninety-Six, for example, created an entire community of the same brick house), others like Simpsonville used a handful of building plans interchangeably. These plans were often referred to as “Type A,” “Type B,” etc. and could have been either mixed within the same street or separated street by street. This mass construction of buildings in a set style/design was a fairly new concept, and can be likened to the famous “Sears & Roebuck” houses, which

In the case of Simpsonville, four streets - Iselin Street, Edwards Street, Woodside Circle and Beattie Street – were created and filled with houses of about four different types. In addition to the houses, a company store, recreation building, baseball field and gym were created. The baseball field was later renamed for “Red” Barbary, a baseball player who got his start in Simpsonville’s mill village, and is still in use in front of Simpsonville Public Works on West Curtis Street. The Woodside Gym, constructed in 1947, was incorporated in 1998 into the new Simpsonville Senior and Activity Center.

raised in the communities reflect fondly on the community with memories such as sitting on the porches with their families in the evening and socializing. The recently opened Simpsonville Genealogical Research Room (located in the Senior and Activity Center) is currently seeking to capture and memorialize this mill village history, and would love to hear from anyone with information or fond memories.

Mill villages such as the one in Simpsonville have become a well-loved part of local history. Those who lived in or were

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Palmetto State Chili Cook-Off Coming May 23: Enter Your Secret Recipe!

An event for small and growing businesses to learn about local business resources. Vendors will represent business areas including Business Planning, Finance & Accounting, Professional Mentoring/ Networking, IT Services, Commercial Real Estate, Legal Risk Management, Marketing, and MORE. Vendor spaces still available, contact the Chamber for details (864) 963-3781

Jenny Clark The first annual Palmetto State Chili Cook-Off will be held at the Farmers Market Pavilion, 102 Depot Street, on Saturday, May 23, from 9 am to 1 pm. Sanctioned by the International Chili Society (ICS), the event will feature some of the very best chili cookers, arts and crafts vendors, a children’s area with three large inflatables, and musical entertainment throughout the day with Hot as a Pepper, Three Creeks Over, and Arvie Bennett, Jr. “The Palmetto State Chili Cook-Off is another vehicle by which this Chamber can give back to the Upstate region,” said John Hastings, President/CEO of the Fountain Inn Chamber of Commerce. The spring cookoff joins the Commerce’s other popular charitable efforts which benefit the Upstate, including its summertime cruise-in for school supplies, its autumn car show at the Aunt Het Festival, and its winter coat drive for the James Monroe House. The event will benefit three Upstate charities:

90% net proceeds will go to Broken Wing Farms, “B” Motivated Ministries and Patriot Guard Riders. “We need more ordinary folks to enter the People’s Choice Chili contest,” said Hastings. “The more people who enter, the more chili for sampling and voting for. This equates to more money raised through the sale of tasting tickets for our three chosen charities.” Churches, youth groups, and other groups are also encouraged to enter the cook-off. There is no admission charge to the Palmetto State Chili Cook-Off. Anyone wanting to sample entries and cast their votes for the Peoples’ Choice contest can do so by purchasing the tasting tickets at the event. Tasting tickets are $5 per set of 8, which also includes the People’s Choice voting ticket. Founded in 1967, the International Chili Society (www. chilicookoff.com) sanctions nearly 200 chili cook-offs

worldwide each year to benefit charities or nonprofit organizations. Sanctioned cook-offs include four categories: Traditional Red Chili, Chili Verde (green chili), Homestyle and Salsa. The ICS crowns a World Champion in each category. All People’s Choice entrants are required to bring a minimum of 2 gallons of chili for public tasting and voting. All will need to register with the Chamber. “We will have an approximately 12’X12’ space for entrants, and they must bring their own tents, tables, chairs and a means of keeping the chili hot (camping stove, chafing dish, etc.). Decorate the tents, the tables, even their clothing....just go wild and have fun!” says Hastings. For more information on being a chili cooker in the Palmetto State Chili Cook-Off, visit www. PalmettoStateChili.com or contact John Hastings at 864-862-2586.

SENIOR

W & e llness h t l a e H FAIR Friday, May 1st

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 still available, contact the Chamber for details

(864) 963-3781

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First Kelley’s Kure Walk/Run held at Heritage Park Jenn Hulehan On Saturday morning the rain of the past week relented in time for the first annual Kelley’s Kure Walk/Run at Heritage Park. Held on what would have been Kelley Upchurch’s 40th birthday, this fundraising event benefited both the SC Ovarian Cancer Foundation and Let There be Mom. At the event, Kelley’s story was shared: She passed away 4 years ago from ovarian cancer, not long after her

youngest daughter was born. Like many women diagnosed with Stage IV ovarian cancer, Kelley experienced few alarming symptoms: heartburn, stomach pain, problems eating. And because of that, like many women, her diagnosis was delayed, which is why awareness is so important. The South Carolina Ovarian Cancer Foundation provided literature in runners’ bags that urged women who experience

KNOW YOUR BODY & THE SIGNS • Abdominal pressure, bloating, or discomfort • Nausea, indigestion, or gas • Constipation, diarrhea, or frequent urination • Abnormal bleeding • Unusual fatigue • Shortness of breath • Unexplained weight loss or gain • Constant feeling of fullness For more on ovarian cancer, including risk factors and risk reduction, visit scovariancancer.org

similar “unusual for you” symptoms for more than 2 weeks to contact a doctor. In a moving, pre-run tribute, Kelley’s daughters shared memories of their mother— she was always rescuing animals and loved cats—and then lead the crowd in singing happy birthday. They also shared her favorite verse: Ecclesiastes 1:18. Kelley’s mother shared some heartfelt words as the crowd released purple and white balloons in Kelley’s memory. The event featured 3 separate races: a Kids’ Fun Run (Kat Krawl), a 4+1K (Kat Krush), and an 8K (Kat Krazee). To honor her love of cats, the race routes featured hidden cats, and a prize was awarded to the person who found them all. Several local businesses lent support to the cause. Jazzercise Simpsonville was one of those businesses, and kicked off the event with a Jazzercise dance warm-up lead by owner/instructor Jennifer Niemiec. Typically classes are held downtown at the Jazzercise Studio on West

Photo by Tim Shelnut ©2015 timshelnut.com Curtis St. (by the clock tower), but to help show support for what Niemiec considers a worthy cause the Saturday morning class was canceled. Regular attendees were encouraged to join Niemiec at the walk/run. Runners’ goodie bags contained freebies from Lumbee Enterprises, Complete Nutrition, Aramark, and Dave & Busters. Other local sponsors included CityScape Winery, Teal Automotive, Spike’s After School, Cycle Haus, Sharon and Mark Grimes, Sherby’s Pub, Design to Impress, Happy Cow Creamery and AlignLife. Let There Be Mom supports mothers who have been

diagnosed with a life threatening illness to preserve “the traditions their families have started, the memories they have made and the hopes and dreams they have for their children.” For more information visit lettherebemom.org If you couldn’t make it this year, we hope to see you next year as Kelley’s friends and family continue to raise awareness in honor of the woman they loved and lost too early. Kelley’s Kure on Facebook: facebook.com/KelleysKure Mention this article and receive your first class free at Jazzercise Simpsonville.

Exercise and Allergies

Chris Larson

Spring can be a great time for outdoor exercise. Unfortunately, many people suffer from seasonal allergies that can make exercising a miserable experience. The pollen from trees and grasses can make breathing difficult, cause wheezing, coughing, and congestion, and make eyes swollen, watery, and itchy.

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The best way to keep the allergy season from ruining your exercise fun is to be proactive to avoid the worst of the allergy symptoms. Allergy medicines should be taken before the high pollen count days begin. If you take antihistamines prior to high pollen days, then your reaction to the pollen won’t be as severe. A natural remedy to pollen allergies is to take a spoonful of local honey each day leading

up to allergy season. The idea is that the honey made from the pollen of your area will build up an immunity so that your pollen reaction will not be so bad. You can also plan your outdoor activities for days when the pollen count will be lower. These are typically cooler days with more moisture in the air. Higher humidity typically means a lower pollen

count. Also, pollen counts are higher in the mornings and early afternoons than in the evenings. If you plan outdoor exercise around times when pollen counts are lowest, be proactive with your allergy symptom treatments, and work on your allergy immunity, Spring can be a great time to break out of winters shell and get outdoor exercise.

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OBITUARIES

TINA DENISE STEWART

Tina Denise Stewart, 44, of Simpsonville, wife of Doug Stewart for 22 years, after a long illness went to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, April 18, 2015 while at home surrounded by her family. Tina was a daughter of the late Lewis Carlisle and Pat Carlisle. Tina was of the Baptist faith and was a loving mom of three boys. She worked in the insurance industry for many years before becoming a full-time homemaker. In addition to her husband, Doug, and her mom, Pat, she is survived by three sons, Chris Martin of FL, Jeremy Stewart of FL, and Justin Stewart of Simpsonville; one grandson Jason Lewis Martin of FL; and one sister, Sandra Carlisle Bradley, also of Florida. A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, April 24, 2015 at 1:00 pm at First Baptist Church Mauldin with Pastor Wade Leonard officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the service starting at 12:00 noon at the Church. Interment will follow the service at Cannon Memorial Park. Heritage Funeral Home is assisting the family. www.heritage-funeral. com

JOHN EDWARD “JACK” PETERSON John Edward “Jack” Peterson, Jr., 75, of Simpsonville, loving husband for 52 years to Millie Pickard Peterson, died Thursday, April 9, 2015. Born in Salem, MA, he was the son of the late John Edward Peterson, Sr., and Eloise Tarr Peterson. Jack retired on December 31, 2014, from Michelin where he had been a Research Engineer for more than 52 years. He was an Eagle Scout, a member of Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity and an avid supporter of the American Cancer Society. He was a member of St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church.

Survivors, in addition to his wife, include two daughters, Caryn Taylor and husband Stanley of London, OH, and Lisa Rohal and husband Dennis of Alpharetta, GA; a son, Doug Peterson and wife Nga of Greenville, SC; a brother Chris Peterson of Mineral, VA; and four grandchildren, Allison Rohel, Jaclyn Rohel, Sarra Taylor and Matthew Peterson. The Funeral Mass was celebrated at 10:00AM on Monday, April 13, 2015, at St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church. Burial followed in Graceland East Memorial Park. After the interment, the family received friends in the Parish Hall. Memorials may be made to the Cancer Centers of the Carolinas, 900 W. Faris Road, Greenville, SC 29605, or to the charity of one’s choice. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.thomasmcafee. com. Thomas McAfee Funeral Home, Southeast Chapel

PATRICIA K. EUDY Patricia K. Eudy, 74, of Simpsonville, loving wife since 1966 to John W. Eudy, died Friday, April 10, 2015. Born in Greenville, she was the daughter of the late Guy Benjamin King and Margaret Nash King. Pat was the Office Manager for Filter Queen of Greenville. Currently a member of Clear Spring Baptist Church, she was very active in the Women’s Missionary Union and had previously taught Sunday School. Survivors, in addition to her husband, include two sons, Keith Eudy and wife Belinda, and Kevin Eudy, all of Simpsonville; three grandchildren, Jonathan Brock, Christen McMakin and Melissa Lollis; a sister Audrey Morrison; and a brother Stephen King. The Funeral Service was held at 2:00PM on Sunday, April 12, 2015, at Thomas McAfee Funeral Home, Southeast Chapel, with visitation to follow. Burial was held at Noon

SIMPSONVILLEBANNER.COM on Monday, April 13, 2015, at Greenville Memorial Gardens. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.thomas mcafee. com.

ELMER LEE CRIST Elmer Lee Crist, 71, of Simpsonville, loving husband for 48 years to Johanna Lucas Crist, died Monday, April 20, 2015. Born in Rexmont, PA, he was the son of the late Elmer Crist and Susan Miriam Yeagley Crist. Mr. Crist served in the US Army. He was retired from manufacturing where he served as VP of Human Resources. Survivors, in addition to his wife, include a son Mark Crist and his wife Erica; two grandchildren, Jacob and Leah Crist; and a sister-in-law, Carole Lee Ippolito. Visitation will be held on Friday, April 24, 2015, from 2:00 to 2:45PM, at Thomas McAfee Funeral Home, Southeast Chapel, with the Funeral Service to follow at 3:00PM. Burial will be in MJ Dolly Cooper Veterans Cemetery at a later date. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.thomasmcafee. com.

ERWIN PEREZ Erwin Perez, 33, of Greenville, died Saturday, April 11, 2015. Born in Mandaue City in the Philippines, he was a son of Crisencia Roca Perez and the late Alex Perez. He was a member of Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church. Surviving, in addition to his mother, are three sisters, Ivy Perez, Yvette Perez and Gay Perez; a brother, Alvin Perez, and several cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a sister, Jennifer Perez. Visitation was held Monday, April 13, 2015 at 5:00 p.m. at Thomas McAfee Funeral Home, Southeast with a funeral service following in the Southeast Chapel at 6:00 p.m.

Thomas McAfee Funeral Home, Southeast Chapel

DEBRA MCKITTRICK BALDWIN Debra McKittrick Baldwin, 63, of Greenville, loving wife for 46 years to Randy David Baldwin, died Tuesday, April 14, 2015. Born in Simpsonville, she was the daughter of the late Ralph David and Nell Johnson McKittrick. Debra was a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner in the NICU at Greenville Health System. She was of the Baptist faith. Survivors, in addition to her husband, include one daughter, Rebecca Smith; one son, David Baldwin and his wife Susannah; seven grandchildren, Ian, Audrey and Austin Smith, and Joanna, Connor, Gabriel and Grace Baldwin; and two sisters, Jennifer McKittrick and

FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2015

Kathrine McKittrick. Visitation was held from 6:00 to 8:00PM on Friday, April 17, 2015, at Thomas McAfee Funeral Home, Southeast Chapel. The Funeral Service was held at 1:30 PM on Saturday, April 18, 2015, in the chapel of the funeral home. Burial followed in Graceland East Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to the March of Dimes, 37 Villa Road, Greenville, SC 29615. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.thomasmcafee. com.

AMIE CAROL SUTTLES CORDOVA

she was the daughter of Jesse Suttles and Joan Wilson Suttles. Survivors, in addition to her parents, include three children; one sister; two brothers; two grandmothers; and two grandfathers. Visitation was held at 2:00PM on Saturday, April 18, 2015, at Cedar Grove Baptist Church, Highway 418, Fountain Inn. The Funeral Service was at 3:00PM with burial following in the church cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.thomasmcafee. com. Thomas McAfee Funeral Home, Southeast Chapel

Amie Carol Suttles Cordova, 38, of Honea Path, died Tuesday, April 14, 2015. Born in Greenville County,

A Living Book Have you ever heard of a living book? It is definitely alive. I have read it through many times. Every time I read it, it is like a brand new book. It actually is 66 books, which were penned by different men. These words were inspired by God. This means they are God-breathed. God breathed these words into the men who wrote down what God said. This book is the Bible. This book was written over a period of 1500 years or more. The first five books at the beginning of the book were penned by Moses. Some books were written by many of God’s prophets. They heard God’s message and presented it to the people. Some of the prophets are: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, and many more. In the Old Testament these books were written by Israelites. The Old Testament prophets prophesied until John.

until John (John the Baptist).Then Jesus came into the world. When Jesus was baptized, God the Father audibly said: This is my beloved Son. Hear ye him. John 8:24 Jesus said: If ye believe not that I am he (the messiah) ye shall die in your sins. We can read in the Bible the story of Jesus’ birth, death, and resurrection from the dead. He is now ascended back to heaven, and sits at the right hand of the throne of God. Col. 3:1 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sits on the right hand of God. If you have never heard of a living book, and you will read this book (the Bible) everyday, I promise you that you will see something new each time you read it.

Luke 16:16 The law and the prophets were

Gabby

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OBITUARIES

HERITAGE FUNERAL HOME Private and Locally Owned

313 NORTH MAIN STREET | SIMPSONVILLE, SC 864-757-1771 | HERITAGE-FUNERAL.COM

SIMPSONVILLEBANNER.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2015

SIMPSONVILLE EVENTS Bryson Elementary Bear Fair Friday, April 24, 2015 5:00pm 8:00pm 703 Bryson Dr Simpsonville, SC 29681 The Jamie Wright Experience at Exchange Co. Friday, April 24, 2015 5:00pm 7:00pm Exchange Co. The Wildcat Players present Arsenic and Old Lace Fri, Apr 24, 2015 7:00pm Sun, May 3, 2015 4:30pm Woodmont High School Simpsonville Mud Mania Saturday, April 25, 2015 8:00am 12:00pm Heritage Park Upstate Baby, Family and Kids Expo Saturday, April 25, 2015 10:00am 5:00pm TD Convention Center The Jamie Wright Experience at Exchange Co. Saturday, April 25, 2015 7:00pm 9:00pm 110 Southeast Main Street Simpsonville, SC 29681 Phil Cooper in Concert Sunday, April 26, 2015 11:00am 12:00pm 301 Bethany Rd Simpsonville, SC 29681

Book Signing by Dr. Frank Page Sunday, April 26, 2015 12:30pm 2:00pm 3 Hedge St Simpsonville, SC 29681

The Fair at Heritage Park Fri, May 8, 2015 9:00am Sun, May 17, 2015 9:00pm Small Business Resource Fair Thursday, May 14, 2015 4:00pm 7:00pm Heritage Funeral Home

Peacock Cottage: Pallet Art with Kelly Ooten Thursday, April 30, 2015 6:30pm 7:30pm Peacock Cottage

2nd Annual Fork Shoals Market Day Saturday, May 16, 2015 9:00am 2:00pm 1107 McKelvey Rd Pelzer, SC 29669

Second Annual Senior Health & Wellness Fair Friday, May 1, 2015 9:00am 10:00pm 310 W Curtis St Simpsonville, SC

50 Mile Ride and BBQ Recovery Meal Saturday, May 16, 2015 9:00am 7:00pm JB’s Barbecue 711 Southeast Main Street Simpsonville, SC 29681

Sippin’ in Simpsonville Friday, May 1, 2015 6:00pm 9:00pm Clock Tower The Doobie Brothers with Don Felder Friday, May 1, 2015 7:30pm 10:30pm Charter Ampitheatre

Bovinoche Saturday, May 16, 2015 10:30am 8:30pm Simpsonville City Park

HHS Theatre Presents: Little Shop of Horrors Debuts Friday, May 1, 2015 7:30pm 9:00pm Hillcrest High School

VT Palmetto Chapter Clean Up Day: Howard Drive Saturday, May 16, 2015 11:00am 1:00pm Simpsonville Area Chamber of Commerce

Senior Adult Recognition Service at Clear Spring Baptist Sunday, May 3, 2015 11:00am 12:00pm 301 Bethany Rd Simpsonville, SC 29681

Stella’s Dog Adoption Day with CCA Saturday, May 16, 2015 11:30am 2:00pm Stella’s Southern Bistro

FOUNTAIN INN EVENTS

104 N.E. Main Street

THE MAN WHO CAME TO DINNER: APRIL 24-26 7:30pm 8:30pm Younts Center for Performing Arts

FI FAMILY FUN HORSE SHOW Saturday, May 2, 2015 10:00am 7:00pm Berry Woods Farm

Simpsonville, SC

864.905.2656

PROJECT HOST BBQ COOK-OFF & FESTIVAL Friday, April 24, 2015 | 6:00pm 10:00pm Main and Broad Streets Greenville, SC PANCAKES FOR PREVENTION EASTSIDE KIWANIS, MANUPSTATE & PROJECT PINWHEEL Saturday, April 25, 2015 8:00am 10:30am Pelham Road Baptist Church 1108 Pelham Rd, Greenville, SC 29615

Send us your events. It’s free. info@simpsonvillebanner.com

INTRODUCTION TO T’AI CHI FOR ADULTS Friday, April 24, 2015 10:30am 12:00pm Kerry Ann Younts Culp Library 311 North Main Street Fountain Inn, SC 29644

Nearby Events:

THE GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA: 3:00 AND 7:30 PM Saturday, May 2, 2015 Younts Center for Performing Arts

PALMETTO STATE CHILI COOKOFF Saturday, May 23, 2015 9:00am 4:00pm Fountain Inn, SC

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The Simpsonville Banner is published weekly on Fridays, and every day online. Submissions for the printed edition are due on Monday of the week prior to publishing. Send to info@simpsonvillebanner.com. Contributed Columns and Photography from citizens of Simpsonville and surrounding areas. Ads and artwork may not be reproduced without permission. ©2015 Brebson Creative, LLC.

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PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY WARNING! Simpsonville, SC – The most common method that doctors recommend to treat peripheral neuropathy is with prescription drugs that may temporarily reduce symptoms. These drugs have names such as Gabapentin, Lyrica, Cymbalta, and Neurontin, and are primarily antidepressant or anti-seizure drugs. These drugs may cause you to feel uncomfortable and have a variety of harmful side effects.

balance problems, pain, numbness, tingling, The laser therapy will allow blood vessels to burning, and many additional symptoms. grow back around the peripheral nerves and provide them with the proper nutrients to heal The main problem is that your doctors tell your and repair. It’s like adding water to a plant and to just “live with it!” or try the drugs which seeing the roots grow deeper and deeper. make you feel uncomfortable. There is now a facility right here in Simpsonville that offers The amount of therapy needed to allow the you hope without taking those endless drugs nerves to fully recover varies from person to with serious side effects. (See the special person and can only be determined after a neuropathy severity examination at the end of detailed neurological and vascular evaluation. this article.) As long as you have not sustained at least 85% In order to effectively address neuropathy, nerve damage, there is hope! three factors must be determined.

Peripheral neuropathy is a result of damage to the nerves often causing weakness, pain, numbness, tingling, and the most debilitating balance problems. This damage is commonly caused by a lack of blood ﬂow to the nerves in the hands and feet which causes the nerves to begin to degenerate due to lack of nutrient ﬂow.

Dr. Elliot Hirshorn, Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologist, will do a neuropathy 1) What is the underlying cause? 2) How much nerve damage has been sustained. severity examination to determine the extent NOTE: Once you have sustained 85% nerve of the nerve damage for only $79.00. This loss, there is likely nothing that we can do for neuropathy severity examination will consist of a detailed sensory evaluation, extensive you. peripheral vascular testing, and a detailed 3) How much therapy is required? analysis of your neuropathy findings. The therapy that is provided at New Life Hirshorn will be be offering offering this thisneuropathy neuropathy Functional Neurology & Endocrinology has Dr. Hirshorn severity examination examination from fromnow nowuntil untilFriday, Friday, three main goals. April8,17, 2015. May 2015. 1) Increase blood flow Call 864-757-8500 to make an appointment 2) Stimulate small fiber nerves with Dr. Hirshorn to determine if your 3) Decrease brain-based pain peripheral neuropathy can be addressed. Due The therapy to increase blood flow is our new to our busy office schedule, we are limiting $60,000.00 M6 Laser and other therapies this offer to the first 20 callers. like Peripheral Neuropathy Rehab Therapy (PNRT). The M6 laser is one of the most If our office is closed, leave a message and we will call you back on the next business day to schedule your evaluation. Again, the phone number is 864-757-8500. As a service to you, Dr. Hirshorn’s team will check to see if your insurance will cover any of the services.

As you can see in the diagram above, the blood vessels that surround the nerves become diseased, and they shrivel up which causes the nerves to not get the nutrients needed to survive. When these nerves begin to “die” they cause GN-0100764005

Out of the hundreds of chiropractors in South Carolina, Dr. Hirshorn is one of only four Board Certiﬁed Chiropractic Neurologists, which makes him uniquely qualiﬁed to address expensive lasers on the market today and peripheral neuropathy! worth every penny because it gets RESULTS! The M6 laser therapy is like watering a plant. Federal & Medicare Restrictions May Apply.

OFFER CODE: SB0424