We said goodbye to our 24-year-old stove last week. It departed from its long appliance life with a short but powerful, bright fireworks show in the oven.

The heating element had just had enough. That was one fireworks show we didn’t enjoy!

Kitchen fires can be expensive and damaging. Only you can prevent a kitchen fire. To protect yourself, don’t leave cooking food unattended. Don’t wear long loose sleeves when cooking. Clean all surfaces and have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen.

CONGRATULATIONS to Tim Richardson and Gerard Kelly. They are the 1st place winners in the Bass Fishing competition and will go to Nationals in October.

BEING GREEN and environmentally re sponsible is important to Linda Byars. She has the honor of being named the Green Steps Mentor of the Year. The Green Step Schools program encourages schools to be environmentally responsible.

THE CHAPIN Woman’s Club has a Virtual Flamingo Fling and online auction August 10-16. Visit chapinwomensclub.com

LEXINGTON COUNTY’S Comprehensive Plan needs your opinion. They want you to think about what is important to you and what you want in your community in the next 10-20 years. Go to growwithuslexco.com to send in your comments.

COOL OFF this weekend at the splash pads. Melvin Park Splash and Saluda Shoals Park Splash are open Saturdays 10 am-6 pm and Sundays noon-5 p.m. $3 a person.