Could it be fall? We have enjoyed the cooler temperatures this week. The calendar says Tuesday, Sept. 22, is the 1st day of autumn. We are right in sync with the season.

It is time for pumpkins, colorful mums and other fall decorations. The weather forecaster even recommends a jacket for cooler mornings!

We have been fortunate to escape major destructive hurricanes like Hugo Sept. 22, 1989. Neither hurricane Matthew in 2016 or tropical storm Irma in 2017 reached Hugo’s magnitude of destruction.

Since covid-19 our events have taken on a new format to follow safety guidelines. The annual Fur Ball sponsored by Pawmetto Lifeline has done just that. The Fur Ball Mask-a-Rade “Evening with a Mission” will be held at 7 pm Oct. 17 at Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center. According to founder Deloris Mungo,

According to founder Deloris Mungo, “The event may be smaller based on social distancing guidelines but the impact will be huge. The Fur Ball is a major source of operational funding for Pawmetto Lifeline.

“We will comply with all guidelines for social distancing which is why we cannot sell individual tickets. If you do not feel comfortable attending the event in person, we urge you to financially support this event. Companion pets are counting on us.

“If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call me on my cell (803) 730-0943, or contact Jack Sloan, at Pawmetto Lifeline, at (803) 465-9191.”

“You may make a 100% tax deductible donation to Pawmetto Lifeline, 1275 Bower Parkway, Columbia, SC 29212.

It is amazing how the virus brought on change even in our attire. A mask is part of our everyday dress now. Masks are on display in all designs and colors in the local stores. Some people choose to make their own and sewing machines have become a popular household item.

Lauren Palkowski of Mission Lexington reports September’s Church, Board and Volunteer of the Month for their contributions:

• Mt. Horeb United Methodist Church is Church of the Month. Their support includes cleaning the Mission Lexington grounds monthly, sending lunch to our staff, partnering on projects and programs and supporting the mission financially.

• Board Member of the Month is Jacob Cook, Vice President of Business Development for Sun Solutions in West Columbia, SC. He has served since 2019.

• Volunteer of the Month JoDee Douda has been a loyal volunteer since 1985 and has assisted with a special events and fund raisers over 35 years.

Executive Director Robin Bowers said their Most-Needed Items list is on Mission Lexington’s Facebook page for quick access. Drop off is Mon-Thurs, 10 am-1 pm at 216 Harmon Street, Lexington, at the donation door. Most needed items: canned soups, canned fruit or applesauce, canned tuna, chicken, stew or chili, mashed potatoes, pasta or rice, laundry detergent, dish soap, disinfectant spray, shampoo, deodorant or razors, cat food.

We remind you of Bill Wellborn’s plan for Nov. 11, Veteran’s Day. He asks everyone to write a postcard with just two words, THANK YOU. The deadline is Oct. 31 to give him time to package and mail to our VA Hospital or hand deliver to Moncrief at Fort Jackson. Send to Bill Wellborn, 562 Oak Drive, Lexington, 29073.

Many readers were inspired by hearing author Anna Keikulis Johnson of The Peace Guardian speak at Travinia’s and The Haven. She held a book signing for those wishing to buy a copy. Many turned out to hear her story. Anna is the aunt of June Fusco and you may contact June or The Haven for information. Books are $15 each.

Anne Bull reports that Brenda Maxwell tells us that Mt. Horeb’s After School program is back. It is named for the John 10:10 verse and is called 10:10 Bridge. The church is so grateful for the volunteers who choose to invest in the lives of children in our community and provide spiritual, emotional, physical, social and academic support to meet their diverse needs.

Thelma Strother celebrated her 101st birthday Sept. 21. A drive-by celebration was held to honor this special lady!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO Brent Caughman, Lu Bickley, Joe Brannon, Kimber Coleman, Gerald Ives, Genny Nelson, Michelle Black, Rob Gamble III, Tiffany Glover, Craig Harmon, Courtney McInnis, Charlie Steele, Carl Baughman, Anna Cox, Jordan Crapps, Laura Dicker, Aulston Marchant, Jodie McFarland, Kelley Mintz, Joe Peay, Aiyana Redd, Lee Shealy, Maureen Garis, Blane Byant, James Connelly, David Swygert, Hope Creasman, Thomas Flitter, Catherine Jeffcoat, Gregg Mills, Glenn Roberson, Charles Scircle, Heather Weaver, Sandra Brandt, Michael Lybrand, Charles Rice II, Jason Antley, Michele Bonetto, Madilyn Burgess, Grayson Carter, John Flitter, Gracen Geary, Lisa Kempf, Mary Townhill, Chuck Dickson, Audrey Boyette, Tiffany Boyette, Jo Counts, Kirsten Davis, Ron Marse, Don Tinman, Woody Woodlief, Sabre Denny, Beth Carrigg, Miriam Dailey and daughter, Sally Plowden.