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Summer 2025
ORGANIZATIONS GIVING SANCTUARY TO EQUINES HEROES FOR HORSES
We all have causes near and dear to our hearts that, for whatever reason, tug at our emotions a bit more than others. While I donate to several organizations, including St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, horses are especially close to my heart. So, in honor of the International Day of Charity on Sept. 5, I thought I’d share a bit about the movement to improve equine welfare. I got involved with horses later in life. Growing up, I dreamed of being a horse girl and even begged my dad to buy me one, but he always said no. He had a Shetland pony as a child and hated it. Somehow, that translated to my not being able to have a horse of my own. Still, I remained fascinated by the animals. Eleven years ago, a client came to me for help but didn’t have the money to pay for legal services. She offered me horseback riding lessons in exchange for my work, and since I’d always wanted to learn, I jumped at the opportunity. I started riding a quarter horse and was hooked. I bought my first horse when the client took me to a training facility, and I’ve had him ever since.
Like many animals, they sometimes suffer abuse and neglect. The horse meat trade is also alive and well, putting many equines at risk of slaughter. Multiple organizations have formed to address these problems, and I’ve come to trust two that I’ve seen do outstanding work. Gentle Giants works specifically with draft horses, a large breed preferred by the meat trade. The organization rescues as many vulnerable animals as possible by outbidding slaughterhouse buyers at public auctions. It then rehabilitates and retrains the horses before opening them up for adoption. The volunteers with Gentle Giants have helped more than 1,500 horses find new, loving homes. But since not all horses are likely to be adopted, a sanctuary allows those animals to live out the rest of their lives well cared for and at peace. Gentle Giants also helps horse owners who need to rehome their equines. The second is Aiken Equine Rescue, which helps retired racehorses known as Off- the-Track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs) whose owners can no longer care for them. They also work with horses that have been abused or neglected. I learned of the organization’s
work through a friend whose sister runs a small sanctuary, and I admire what it does.
OTTBs face unique issues when transitioning away from a life of racing, as do horses from unloving homes. But while Aiken Equine Rescue helps horses find a new lease on life, many horses they take in also help people. Part of the organization’s work is horse therapy. One program helps veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder heal through interaction with horses. Knowing how charities use the funds you donate can be difficult, so I am careful about which organizations I trust. Gentle Giants and Aiken Equine Rescue are two I trust to do what’s best for horses with the money they receive. You can learn more about them at AikenEquineRescue.org and GentleGiantsDraftHorseRescue.org . If you are passionate about horses, I hope you take a moment to learn more and maybe lend a hand. Supporting these groups is my way of giving back to the animals that have brought so much joy to my life, and maybe their stories will inspire you, too.
-Alysoun Eversole
Unfortunately, not all horses are treated with the care and compassion they deserve.
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This newsletter is for informational purposes only and its contents do not constitute legal advice.
Budget Brilliance From a Bygone Era RETRO HABITS MAKE MODERN LIFE (AND PRICES) EASIER
Whether you love or hate them, homeowners associations (HOAs) are a reality many homebuyers must face. Some people vow never to live under an HOA, while others wouldn’t dream of living without one. Those in the ambivalent middle should consider an HOA’s pros and cons before submitting offers. An HOA can radically change your experience as a homeowner, for better or worse. First, consider the fees. Buying a home in an HOA-managed community means additional monthly costs on top of a mortgage. Depending on the services offered, HOA fees can be a small additional upcharge or a significant financial obligation as a homeowner. Further, while it’s usually a last resort, HOAs can foreclose on homes when owners get behind on their payments. Master the magic of homemade meals. Fast food might be convenient, but cooking from scratch is where the real savings (and flavor) happen. Think soups from veggie scraps and hearty meals made from simple pantry staples. Not only does it cut costs, but it puts you in control of your ingredients and nutrition — a win-win. WHAT EVERY BUYER SHOULD KNOW Understanding the HOA Lifestyle In a world where you can have anything delivered in a day, it’s easy to forget that less can be more. But our grandparents and great- grandparents knew the art of stretching a dollar. These timeless frugal habits aren’t just budget-friendly; they’re resourceful and surprisingly satisfying. Ready to channel your inner penny-pincher? Let’s bring these throwback habits back to life. Mend it, don’t end it. Once upon a time, people didn’t just toss a sock with a hole. Instead, you sewed it right back up! No need to rush to the store — just a few basic mending skills can save you from countless unnecessary purchases. It’s also more empowering to fix something with your own hands than tossing it — not to mention much more eco-friendly.
Reinvent your leftovers. Gone are the days of letting food wilt in the fridge. Old-school frugal folks gave every last bite a second act. Roast chicken becomes broth. Rice gets turned into stir-fry. Stale bread transforms into French toast or bread pudding. Get creative! You’ll waste less and eat better. Choose cash over card. There’s something about handing over $20 cash that makes you think twice before spending it. Cash budgeting may feel outdated, but it’s one of the simplest ways to curb impulse buys. Envelopes marked for groceries, gas, or coffee dates give you a clear snapshot of your spending — and what’s left. No more senseless swiping! Save with secondhand savvy. Hand-me-downs were once a household norm! Today, thrift stores and vintage finds are trending again, and for good reason. Whether it’s clothing, furniture, or kitchenware, buying secondhand is kinder to your wallet and the planet.
So, channel some old-school genius and start living a frugal, intentional lifestyle!
On the plus side, those additional costs pay for amenities that other homeowners usually live without. HOAs generally take on lawn care, landscaping, and other maintenance costs. Communities with HOAs also tend to have pools, fitness centers, and other perks that most people have to access farther away from home. However, many people find the community rules and restrictions from HOAs to be a sticking point. Some like the idea of a uniform, well-kept neighborhood, but others find the restrictions stifling. All HOA rules are different, but many restrict how you can decorate the outside of your home and whether you can legally rent the house you own. Most people with experience attest that working with an HOA comes down to management. Many people on HOA boards are kind people who simply want to make the neighborhood a great place to live for everyone. Others can make homeowners’ lives difficult with pettiness or a failure to perform upkeep. HOA members shape how any homeowners association is run, so it pays to attend meetings and help influence the outcome of decisions. Before purchasing a property subject to an HOA, carefully read the bylaws and fully understand the costs, rules, and responsibilities you’ll have as a homeowner. HOAs work well for many homeowners but aren’t a good fit for everyone. Be honest about what you want before you finalize a purchase.
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ESTATE PLANNING IN THE DIGITAL AGE MODERN INVESTMENTS CALL FOR MODERN PLANNING
When you think of an estate plan, what comes to your mind? Many people think of a document that helps protect and pass on their property, savings, and other traditional assets. But with recent technological advances, more individuals have started investing directly in the stock market through apps like Robinhood and Stash, which they may not consider while making an estate plan. And the unique security features of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin present specific challenges and call for special considerations when putting your wishes in writing. The key takeaway is that you must include all your assets when estate planning. While you may think your app-based investments are small or just a hobby, including them in your plan is still essential. Who knows what will become of those investments as companies grow? A digital estate plan can give your heirs the information they need to access your digital accounts. You might include everything from online banking information to social media log-ins. If this information is not secured in a central location, your loved ones may never know certain accounts exist or how to recover them. Documentation is particularly crucial for cryptocurrencies. They’re unique assets with security elements that must be addressed in your estate plan. Many investors value cryptocurrencies because of their anonymity, but that advantage can quickly become a disadvantage without appropriate planning.
For instance, Bitcoin is a digital asset stored in a digital wallet and secured by a 64-digit private key. That key is the only way to access this asset. Unlike other investments, such as a home or 401(k), no personal information (like a Social Security number) is associated with Bitcoin ownership. Once lost, no one can recover the key, and the assets are abandoned forever.
When crafting your estate plan, consider your investments and assets to ensure they all receive the protection they deserve. The team at Eversole Law will gladly help you get the most out of your estate plan by covering all your property, no matter what form it takes.
Great Truths
Inspired by HalfBakedHarvest.com Cheesy Tomato-Basil Stuffed Chicken
Ingredients • 4–6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts • 1/2 cup basil pesto • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese • 1/3 cup oil-packed
Directions 1. Preheat oven to 425 F. 2. Slice chicken down the middle horizontally (not cutting all the way through). 3. Spread pesto inside filleted chicken, then stuff with cheese and tomatoes before closing chicken, covering filling. 4. Place chicken in a large oven-safe skillet. Drizzle with reserved oil. 5. Set the skillet over medium heat; cook 5 minutes. 6. Add 1 1/2 cups tomatoes, garlic, balsamic vinegar, and season with chili flakes. Cook 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat. 7. Bake in oven for 7–10 minutes until chicken is cooked through and tomatoes burst. 8. Toss remaining 1/2 cup tomatoes with basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. 9. Serve the chicken topped with fresh tomatoes.
“He who knows only his own side of the case knows little ...” –John Stuart Mill
sun-dried tomatoes, drained, oil reserved
• 2 cups cherry
tomatoes, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Chili flakes, to taste • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves • Salt and pepper, to taste
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Eversole Law Firm, P.C. 1509 King Street Beaufort, SC 29902 (843) 379-3333 www.eversolelaw.com
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Disclaimer: The content of this publication has been prepared by Eversole Law Firm, P.C. for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship with its readers and may not be used by you, the reader, as legal advice. You are encouraged to consult with us or another attorney about your circumstances to which the information in this document may apply.
What’s Inside 1. Sanctuary for Equines 2. Old-School Habits That Will Save Your Wallet Is HOA Living Right for You? 3. Remember Digital Assets in Your Estate Plan Cheesy Tomato-Basil Stuffed Chicken 4. The Parks You’ve Never Heard Of (But Need to Visit)
3 NATIONAL PARKS THAT ARE WORTH THE DETOUR Ditch the Tourist Traps
Whenever you hear a friend or family member say they’re going to take a road trip to visit some of America’s most beautiful national parks, they usually plan to visit the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, the Great Smoky Mountains, or Yosemite. These national parks consistently attract millions of visitors every year, but they’re far from the only must-see national parks in the country. There are 429 national park sites within the U.S., and 63 of those have obtained the official “national park” designation in their names. (The other labels are battlefields, historic sites, monuments, recreation areas, etc.) If you want to experience the beauty of America without the crowds, consider visiting these destinations during your next vacation!
Channel Islands National Park, California Often referred to as the Galapagos of North America, the Channel Islands are a unique area off the coast of Southern California. While visiting, you can expect to see seals, island foxes, and over 2,000 other plant and animal species, with 145 found nowhere else on Earth. You can reach the mainland visitor center in Ventura by car, but the islands are only accessible by park concessionaire boats or private boats. Make reservations in advance. Cuyahoga National Park, Ohio If you want a unique experience, visit Cuyahoga National Park. Like many other national parks, you can enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and photography while exploring
the park’s 33,000 acres. You can admire many of the 1,000 species of plants and animals throughout your exploration, but if you want to get the full experience, hop aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota Exploring a cave might not be your first thought when considering national parks, but Wind Cave is a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s one of the longest and most complex caves in the world and has many unique features, such as frostwork, cave popcorn, and boxwork, creating unique sights with every step. Once you head back outside, a beautiful mixed- grass prairie, home to bison, prairie dogs, and more, will greet you.
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