Dear Old Village,

September has arrived, and with it comes one of my favorite times of year in the Lowcountry. The days are slightly less hot, the kids are back in school, football is back on television, and we can finally start pretending that fall is just around the corner (even though it may still feel like 92 degrees outside)!

This month’s issue is a great reminder of what makes STROLL Old Village so special: it’s about you. Our stories are written for-and-by residents and, more importantly, are about the people who actually live here.

Our cover story, the Deupree family, are a wonderful example of the interesting families and personalities that make Old Village such a special place to call home. We’re also taking a stroll down Simmons Street to admire a beautifully landscaped home featured as our Yard of the Month. And if you’re looking for an escape from the familiarity of the neighborhood, the Gilmore family takes us all the way to Japan, sharing some of their summer adventures and unique travel experiences.

We’re also introducing you to Thorin, a chocolate Lab who has clearly mastered the art of being adorable and has earned his spot as our Precious Pet of the Month. Then there’s Elias, a young Old Village entrepreneur who is making a name for himself with Old Village Shaved Ice. I love stories like this, especially when the entrepreneur is young enough that the rest of us should probably be taking notes! 

And a special "thank you" goes to Anderson Longevity Clinic, our Sponsor of the Month, for supporting this community and helping make this magazine possible.

Of course, September also means football season is officially underway. College football, the NFL, and fantasy football leagues are all kicking back into gear. I have one important question: What exactly do first-place fantasy football winners get? More importantly, what does last place have to do? I’ve heard some pretty creative last place punishment ideas over the years, and I’m always amazed at how quickly “friendly competition” can turn into public humiliation.

If you’re looking for a place to catch a game with friends or bring the whole family, check out "The Perch" at Get Carried Away Southern Market & Cafe. With plenty of TVs, great food, refreshing drinks, and an outdoor atmosphere, it’s a pretty great spot to settle in for a Saturday or Sunday game.

There’s plenty happening around Charleston this month, including the Sweet Tea Festival on September 19–20 and several family-friendly events and festivals later in the month.

As always, thank you for reading the magazine cover-to-cover, sharing your celebratory stories, supporting our local businesses, and helping make Old Village the wonderful community that it is.

Enjoy September, enjoy the football, and I’ll see you around the Village!