Behind the Counter 2010_S by Community Journals

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The Creature Comforts Team reature Comforts earns its name.

The brainchild of veterinarian Donna Lambert and her husband, Craig, the one-ofa-kind veterinary resort offers the ultimate in comfort for your pet with individual suites for dogs, and flats for the felines. No animals are caged, and all canines have access to more than 14,000 square feet of exercise yard. The suites look like small hotel rooms, complete with painted walls, pictures, and Kuranda dog beds made in America.

“It’s something the Lord gave us,” says Craig, a former sales executive. “It is the perfect way to meld our careers.” The concept has been so successful that Craig added 15 suites last summer. Much to their delight, the Lamberts’ three children enjoy working at the business as well.

2045 HWY. 292 INMAN MON.-FRI. 7:30AM-6:30PM SAT. 9AM-4PM SUN. 3-6PM PICK UP ONLY VET CLINIC: MON.-FRI. 9:30AM5:30PM, SAT. 10:30AM-2:30PM 864.472.1790 www.creaturecomfortsresort.com VETERINARY RESORT

behind the counter | 2010

Photograph by: Carri Bass

Along with a full-service veterinary clinic, Creature Comforts provides two full-service groomers, do-

it-yourself grooming stations, a retail space, AKC training, and an indoor space also available for parties. Pets can stay for day camp, or overnight. The allinclusive price of $35 a night for canines covers the suite, the day camp, medication, and Science Diet or the pet owners’ food.

DID YOU KNOW?

All services can be accessed, including Rx reﬁlls, at www.creaturecomfortsresort.com.

Who do you count on? That’s an important question in our everyday lives, and it extends to the people we choose to do business with. On the following pages are the stories of people who run businesses in our community. They are people you can count on. You can tell it from their stories. You can tell it because they want you to know their stories. They demonstrate all those characteristics we look for in the people we want to do business with: trust, commitment, fun, energy, excitement. It is all about building relationships with people, a key element in establishing an enduring and successful business. One of the things I have found most fascinating since relocating from the metro DC market 12 years ago is the entrepreneurial spirit here and the deep commitment to community. We are fortunate to live in such a wonderful area. These are challenging times. Local businesses face increased competition not just locally, but also from catalogs and Internet shopping. And that was true even before the problems in the economy began. Some local businesses have closed. Local business means local jobs. Local taxes paid by businesses and their customers support local schools and ensure our future. Keeping talent in the Upstate helps attract new business. The variety of businesses here, the personal service owners provide, and their involvement in the community are priceless.

Mark B. Johnston 679.1225 Douglas J. Greenlaw Alan P. Martin 679.1224 Sandra L. Peirce 679.1236 Terry S. Boger 679.1229 Holly Hardin 679.1221 Amy Elliott Anita Harley Jane Rogers

ACCOUNTING COORDINATOR | CIRCULATION MANAGER | SALES ADMINISTRATION MANAGER |

Clarice Hanly 679.1230 David Robinson 679.1240 Katherine Elrod Drake J. Gribbin

MARKETING REPRESENTATIVES |

Donna Johnston Nancy Long Pam Putman Sherri Rogers Lenette Sprouse

LAYOUT & DESIGN |

Kristy M. Adair Michael Allen Joel Newcomer

BTC PHOTOGRAPHERS |

Use our behindthecounteronline.com Web site to e-mail referrals to friends or associates. Shopping local matters. Make your dollar count and count on these business owners.

Carri Bass www.carribass.com Kris Decker www.firewaterphotography.com Monica Parkkonen www.myimagesbymonica.com Carol Stewart www.carolbstewartphotography.com Stephen Vitosky www.StephenVitosky.com

BTC WRITERS |

Samantha Harris sharris@communityjournals.com Amanda Hill athill28@bellsouth.net Gary Hyndman ghyndman@charter.net Diane Jackson dianehjackson@bellsouth.net Leigh Savage lgsavage@bellsouth.net

Sandra L. Peirce Advertising Director

Jan Scalisi jmscalisi@bellsouth.net Allison Walsh writeupyourali@charter.net CONTACT |

P.O. Box 170967

PS: Mention to business owners you saw them here. Many are camera-shy and will appreciate the encouragement.

Spartanburg, SC 29301

© Published by Community Journals LLC. All rights reserved. All property rights for the entire contents of this publication shall be the property of Community Journals, no part therefore may be reproduced without prior written consent.

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index

10X Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 A Caribbean Sweetness Cuban Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 A.T. Locke Total Accounting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Advanced Prosthetics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 American Services, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Annette Starnes, Coldwell Banker Caine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Ballet Spartanburg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Blues Blvd Jazz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Bob Burnett’s, Inc. Appliance & TV Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back Cover Bright Star Lifecare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Carolina Garden World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Front Cover Carri Bass Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Charter Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Charter Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Comfort Keepers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Corley Plumbing & Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Creature Comforts Veterinary Resort & Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Diamonds Choice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Dr. Gary P. Horvath Orthodontics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Family Legacy, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Greenville Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Gromvision Corporate Video Production . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 HRC Medical Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Phone: 864-699-4348 Fax: 864-467-9809

COVER |

This year’s cover was photographed by TJ Getz.

Lutheran Hospice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Martha Franks Baptist Retirement Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Mast General Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Mediasation Web Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Mexico Lindo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 North Hills Automotive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 On Point CFO & Controller Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Piedmont Farm & Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Propel HR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Robin’s Bead Nest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Rosecrest Lutheran Homes of SC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Self Regional Healthcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Back Cover Sharp Business Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 The Brand Rocket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 The Cascades Verdae. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 The Palmetto Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 The Poinsett Bride . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 The Watchworks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Treasures of Time Fine Antiques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Trio Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Two Doors Down. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Upstate Home & Yard.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 WYFF. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Angie Miller & Chad Taylor here’s so much to do when you’re a bride to be, and even more to do as a newlywed or homeowner.

Angie Miller has answers for both stages of a couple’s life. Expanding her original online directory for brides, GSPBridalNetwork.com, Angie partnered with Chad Taylor to create UpstateHomeandYard.com.

GSPBridalNetwork.com is going strong, and Angie promises to continue its sponsorship of Brides Against Breast Cancer, a charity event that raises money through the sale of wedding gowns to grant wishes to terminally ill breast cancer patients. To further their commitment, she and Chad will donate $5 from any new sales to the charity. “We are passionate in supporting the Upstate and local businesses,” Angie says. “We’re connecting businesses to the customer, and the customer to businesses.”

UpstateHomeandYard.com 864.561.7858 GSPBridalNetwork.com 864.423.9559 ONLINE DIRECTORY

behind the counter | 2010

Photograph by: Carri Bass

Angie says: “By creating UpstateHomeandYard.com, our objective is to ‘complete the circle’ with each website complementing each other.” UpstateHomeandYard.com has over 80 categories plus a printable Home and Yard Organizer and more. By using the two web directories, newlyweds and homeowners can find any business or

service that they need from the engagement ring to new construction or landscaping.

DID YOU KNOW?

Angie publishes a wedding and event-planning guide.

behind the counter | 2010

Photograph by: Carri Bass

1040 FERNWOOD-GLENDALE ROAD SUITE 48 SPARTANBURG MON.-FRI. 9 AM-6PM www.thewatchworks.net 864.582.3028 FULL-SERVICE WATCH STORE

DID YOU KNOW?

Walker Copley as the time passed for personal service and expertise?

Walker Copley doesn’t believe it for a minute. Even though he calls himself a dying breed, he takes great pride in the expertise and one-onone service offered at his full-service watch store, Watchworks. With 900 watches in stock – including top brands such as Seiko, Citizen, Bulova, Hamilton, Wenger, and Luminox, plus a sizable selection of watchbands and Seiko clocks – Watchworks is the place where you can buy the perfect watch the first time, and count on a professional watchmaker to keep it running.

Walker plays the banjo.

“I’ve been fixing watches since I was a 17-year-old college student,” says Walker, whose interest was piqued by an old watch his father gave him to repair. His watch repairman, Jorge daSilva, became his mentor, and he found that he had stumbled into his life’s work. Now at a new location at Hillcrest Mall, Walker’s brand of friendly, professional service is more popular than ever. Though he experiences competition from national retailers and the internet, his watches are reasonably priced and backed by years of expertise. When not working, Walker enjoys his wife of 32 years, his three children and two grandchildren.

Comfort Keepers ery special people doing very special work – that’s the story of the dedicated care-givers at Comfort Keepers.

“We are not in the babysitting business,” says owner Erin Couchell, who started Comfort Keepers with her mother-in-law, Kiki Couchell, in 2006. “Our care-givers are carefully screened and trained to provide interactive care-giving to our senior clients.”

Comfort Keepers takes particular care to match its care-givers with clients based on client needs, and to maintain the quality of care through regular home visits by a healthcare coordinator. Erin believes that a healthy environment promotes excellent work, and makes every effort to ensure that her care-givers find Comfort Keepers a great place to work. A busy, working mother of three, Erin manages to take time to speak to groups about senior care.

324 E. ST. JOHN ST. SPARTANBURG 864.573-2353 www.comfortkeepers.com MON.-FRI. 9AM-5PM HOME HEALTHCARE, SENIOR CARE

behind the counter | 2010

Photograph by: Carri Bass

In line with its mission to keep seniors mentally, emotionally, physically, and socially engaged, Erin’s staff offers home healthcare services that ensure that seniors stay stimulated and active – from providing

rides to appointments and events, to cooking a favorite recipe with a client, to working puzzles with clients suffering from Alzheimer’s.

DID YOU KNOW?

Comfort Keepers currently employs more than 50 care-givers.

behind the counter | 2010

Photograph by: Stephen Vitosky

200 E. ST. JOHN ST. SPARTANBURG 864.583.0339 CLASSES MON.-FRI. MID-MORNING THROUGH EVENING SAT. 9AM-2PM www.balletspartanburg.org DANCE

Ballet Spartanburg ancing, teaching, performing – Ballet Spartanburg continues to provide top-quality classes and performances despite the recent economic downturn.

“We have the same strong enrollment in our ballet, tap, jazz, and urban classes, plus adult classes in ballroom, salsa, Middle Eastern, and expanded Irish step classes,” says Executive Director Gene Conroy, who adds that the annual Nutcracker ballet production is generally considered the best in the Upstate. In line with Ballet Spartanburg’s aim to provide dance education to all segments of the community, programs have been added for folks with Parkinson’s,

DID YOU KNOW?

and for special needs children. “Anyone can benefit from movement education, especially those who are sidelined due to disability,” Gene says. Ballet Spartanburg continues partnerships with Big Brothers, Big Sisters, the Spartanburg Terrace Tenants Association, Weed and Seed, and Boys and Girls Clubs, providing free instruction, dancewear, and shoes to young students. A partnership with Hub-Bub artists and local musicians has created mixed repertoire programs including modern and avant garde dance. In the past year, dancers from the American Ballet Theatre and the New York City Ballet performed with Ballet Spartanburg.

Ballet Spartanburg student Magee Maddox is a featured dancer with the National Ballet of Canada in Toronto.

Carri Bass he’s a photographer by trade, but with her 21 years of experience capturing children on film, Carri Bass suspects she might have the equivalent of a Ph.D. in child psychology.

Having her own family helps. Carri speaks with pride of her son, David, soon to enter Wofford College; son, Michael, who is about to earn his Eagle Scout award; and her supportive husband of 30 years, Wofford College professor Charlie Bass. A working mother, Carri started her career hauling not only photographic equipment, but a back-pack with little David tucked inside.

Despite a challenging economy, Carri Bass Photography is thriving at its downtown location. Carri’s traditional photographs with a twist appeal to clients looking for personality in the photographic journals of their weddings, families, and children. “I check my ego at the door,” says Carri, who works tirelessly to please her clients. Carri’s phenomenal success has only deepened her commitment to Spartanburg’s downtown business district – so much so that she has rented an apartment above her studio for a nearby base for the boys and a great venue for get-togethers and guests.

123 DUNBAR ST. SPARTANBURG 864.598.9880 www.carribass.com

behind the counter | 2010

Photograph by: Carri Bass

PHOTOGRAPHER

DID YOU KNOW?

Charlie and Carri climbed Grouse Mountain while living in Vancouver, BC.

behind the counter | 2010

Photograph by: Carri Bass

100 EAST MAIN ST., SUITE R3 SPARTANBURG 864.582.0850 MON.-FRI. 11AM-6PM SAT. 11AM-4PM twodoorsdownllc@att.net WOMEN’S BOUTIQUE

DID YOU KNOW?

Kelly Blackwell elly Blackwell took a chance on Downtown Spartanburg in 2008, and she’s glad she did.

Her boutique, Two Doors Down, has thrived in its location two doors down from Groucho’s Deli on Main Street.

(Patrick Hill) for sale. Local jewelry lines include Elle Ink by Amber Fowler and Southern Charm by Brandy May. Spartanburg brewery RJ Rockers’ merchandise is available for purchase.

To her range of contemporary clothing, including Silver and LTB jeans, Kelly has added Brighton’s Jewelry, Nick & Mo casual clothes, Rubber Ducky casual and cocktail wear, and Mac & Jac, a great new contemporary line.

“I didn’t realize that I’d have people asking me to use my clothes in their photos shoots, and to help out in charity work and fashion shows,” says Kelly, who also enjoys the networking and friendships she has developed with downtown merchants. “There’s more traffic in downtown Spartanburg, and many people moving here from out of town.”

Kelly supports local artists by offering their paintings (Claire Louka, Julie Roberts) and photographs

Kelly’s goals are to open another retail location in the Upstate, and to develop a website.

Other entrepreneurs in Kelly’s family include both grandfathers, a grandmother, and her father.

Annette Starnes ometimes, destiny delayed is all the sweeter.

“I’ve always been told my whole life that I should get into real estate,” says Annette Starnes. “It was my destiny. It just took a while to get there.”

Annette is proud of her wonderful children – Tyler, 20, who attends The Citadel, and daughters, Brittney, 17, and Malorie, 16, both at Dorman High School. With the support of her husband, Mike, an executive at Denny’s, Annette is delighted to devote the time required to achieve her dream.

340 E. MAIN ST., SUITE 100 SPARTANBURG 864.415.1763 astarnes@coldwellbankercaine.com RESIDENTIAL REALTOR

behind the counter | 2010

Photograph by: Carri Bass

Now the outgoing residential Realtor is enjoying great success selling houses in the Spartanburg/Greenville area. After her initial attempt to join the business was sidetracked by marriage and three children, Annette resumed her pursuit of her dream career. She credits her success to supportive family members, friends, and satisfied customer referrals.

“A home is where you raise your family and make your memories,” Annette says. “I’ll show clients as many houses as they want. It’s very important to me that my clients are satisfied.”

DID YOU KNOW?

Annette grew up on a farm, where she learned the value of hard work.

behind the counter | 2010

Photograph by: Carri Bass

RoseCrest Retirement Community RoseCrest

Lutheran Homes of South Carolina

200 FORTRESS DRIVE INMAN 864.599.8600 www.rosecrest.org CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

DID YOU KNOW?

oseCrest’s goal is to keep seniors healthy, happy and active, and to extend the benefits of its wellness programs to the community. As a way to accomplish that goal, a wellness LifeTrail was built through a grant and support of community partners. It features 10 exercise stations, some of which are wheelchair-accessible, along a beautifully landscaped, paved walking path, plus picnic tables and gazebo, all open to the public. RoseCrest welcomes the public to participate in additional wellness initiatives that include an Arthritis Foundation exercise program and Tai Chi. The purpose of these classes is to increase

joint flexibility, range of motion, muscle strength, mobility, breathing, and deep relaxation while providing a support group forum for managing chronic disease. In addition, RoseCrest is excited to offer an exclusive new program found in Lutheran Homes of South Carolina’s campuses, Conductoricise – an exercise program providing a sound workout for mind, body and soul. RoseCrest features an active lifestyle in patio homes as well as assisted living, skilled nursing and rehabilitation. Both assisted living and skilled nursing offer specialized memory support programs.

RoseCrest was recognized by The Spartanburg Chamber of Commerce with The Economic Champion Award.

Joe & Diana Emkjer

f you’re looking for an antique clock – a pre-1930 antique clock – Treasures of Time is where you’ll find it. And if you want your new antique clock repaired, or your current antique clock repaired, just stay put: Treasures of Time is again the place for you. Owned by Joe Emkjer and assisted by his wife, Diana, the store features antique American, German, English and French wall clocks, mantel clocks, and floor clocks, plus miscellaneous antiques and furniture.

Their business has offered the Emkjers great opportunities for travel throughout Europe and England. Happily married for 38 years, the couple enjoys gardening, music, books, antiques, and their children and grandchildren.

201 E. BROAD ST. BROADWALK BUILDING SPARTANBURG MON.-FRI. 10AM-5PM 864.573.7178 ANTIQUE CLOCK SALES & REPAIR

behind the counter | 2010

Photograph by: Carri Bass

The couple takes great pride in the old-world craftsmanship that antique clock repair requires, including antique tools that Joe inherited from his

teacher, a German clockmaker. Joe, an engineer, eventually turned his hobby into a career, keeping alive a dying art that requires years of training, limitless patience, and unusual mechanical ability to keep the beautiful clocks ticking. From their opening in Spartanburg 18 years ago, the business has done well, welcoming customers from far and wide.

DID YOU KNOW?

Joe worked on the ﬁrst Atlas missile program.

behind the counter | 2010

Photograph by: Carri Bass

212 E. BLACKSTOCK ROAD SPARTANBURG 209 E. SOUTH ST. UNION MON.-THU. 8:30AM-5 PM; SOME FRIDAYS 864.587.8000 ORTHODONTICS

DID YOU KNOW?

Dr. Gary Horvath t’s easy to understand why Dr. Gary Horvath is excited to go to work every day.

“What we do is transformative,” says Dr. Horvath. “It builds confidence, and confidence builds success in many ways.” His orthodontic practice, now just shy of 18 years old, specializes in orthodontic treatment for children, adolescents, and adults, and includes braces and Invisalign for improving alignment, along with orthopedic devices to help with facial growth and development. And there’s another reason Dr. Horvath is happy to work demanding hours: his staff. “I genuinely like

Dr. Horvath is an avid music lover and enjoys playing guitar.

them, and consider them part of my family,” he says. Attention to detail, respect for patients’ time, and business integrity are hallmarks of his staff’s work in his Spartanburg and Union locations. Dr. Horvath uses digital records and x-rays, and has developed computer skills advanced enough to keep computers humming at his offices. A native of Ireland, Dr. Horvath has lived in Spartanburg since he was nine. A proud father of Rebecca, a sophomore at Western Carolina University, and husband of Leslie, a Deacon at St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church, Dr. Horvath loves to read and to travel.

Robin’s Bead Nest

everal years ago, Robin Justice’s daughter, Jules, came home from a friend’s house where she had been beading and asked if they could buy some beads. Mom and daughter began designing and making jewelry, and quickly became addicted to the activity. Robin soon found herself selling at craft shows, and two years later, she opened Robin’s Bead Nest.

The Nest hosts gatherings, including birthday parties, bridal showers, and ladies nights out. Robin’s artistic employees – Amber Fowler and Robin Easterlin – offer their creations for sale as well. Most days, you’ll find Harriett Butler, Robin’s mom, and Jules at the store working and creating.

127 E. BLACKSTOCK ROAD, #400 SPARTANBURG MON.-SAT. 10AM-7PM www.robinsbeadnest.com 864.576.8711 CRAFT STORE

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Photograph by: Carri Bass

“The response has been fabulous,” says Robin, who opened a week earlier than planned last fall due to customers knocking on the door. The store offers beads and gems of all kinds, plus the materials

needed to create earrings, bracelets, and necklaces, and to adorn any and all objects. Classes are held daily in a friendly atmosphere where coffee, hot tea, bottled water, and soft drinks are free. There is a FUNdamentals basic beading class every Tuesday at 6 p.m.

DID YOU KNOW?

You can make earrings for under $5, or a bracelet for $10- $15.

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Photograph by: Carri Bass

7043 HOWARD ST. SPARTANBURG MON.-SAT. 8AM-6PM 864.583.1443 pfgs@aol.com VEGETABLE, FLOWER SEEDS & PLANTS

DID YOU KNOW?

Tony Hollifield hen spring stirs and cabin fever catapults you outside, you may find yourself at Piedmont Farm and Garden Supply.

With more than 200 varieties of peppers and 100-plus varieties of tomatoes, you’ve made a good choice. Piedmont Farm is one of the last true feed and seed stores in Spartanburg County – a place where greenhouse space bursts with the largest selection of vegetables in the county, fabulous flowers and plants, and 150 varieties of heirloom seeds. Owner Tony Hollifield saw his best gardening season ever last year, the result of a surge in interest in homegrown food. His specialty is providing

merchandise that you can’t find anywhere else, and old-fashioned customer service that includes an interest in your garden, loading your car, and answering any and all questions. Tony started working at Piedmont in high school in 1978. After earning his horticulture degree, he bought the business in 1989. He has fought weather, economic downturns, and national retailers to maintain a thriving business that provides poinsettias at Christmas, chickens, turkeys, and ducks in the spring, and seasonal flowers and vegetables.

Piedmont Farm helps students with science projects dealing with seeds and plants.

Gaston & Dana Rodriguez eady for a taste of the Caribbean in Upstate South Carolina?

Try A Caribbean Sweetness, an authentic Cuban restaurant on Spartanburg’s east side with a small menu and big flavor.

“The best compliment that I received was from a German family who said that everything they ordered tasted different,” says Gaston. “I like cooking, and talking about the recipes.”

A Caribbean Sweetness CubAn CAfe

1824 E. MAIN ST. SPARTANBURG 864.582.3330 MON.-SAT. 11AM-8PM www.caribsweet.com CAFÉ

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Photograph by: Carri Bass

Havana native Gaston Rodriguez and his wife, Dana, started the restaurant in 2007 when they noted the lack of Cuban food in the area. Offering an array of sandwiches (chicken, pork, beef, and ham) on authentic Cuban bread, plus Caribbean staples such as rice, beans, plantains and tamales, the restaurant is authentic down to the strong Cuban coffee, flans, and fruit milkshakes called batidos.

Gaston fled Cuba by sea when he was 24, and lived in Puerto Rico and Florida before moving to Brunswick, GA, and Spartanburg to work as a technician for BMW. A father of two – Evangelina, 23, and Nicolas, 20 – Gaston is now happily selfemployed. His mission? To get Spartanburg hooked on the flavors of Havana.

DID YOU KNOW?

Gaston’s childhood home in Havana’s Hemingway Marina is now a government-run restaurant.

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Photograph by: Carri Bass

Mexico Lindo 1047 FERNWOOD-GLENDALE ROAD SPARTANBURG MON.-THU. 11AM-10PM FRI.-SAT. 11AM-11PM 864.582.9602 FAX 864.582.9603 FACEBOOK GROUP: MEXICO LINDO MEXICAN RESTAURANT

DID YOU KNOW?

Rita Roman ita Roman took her recipe for mahi mahi tacos all the way to fourth place in the national Great Summer Grill Off contest held by The Regis and Kelly Show last year.

The fresh ingredients in that dish comprise the recipe for the entire menu at Mexico Lindo, which Rita describes as having a Latin flair. Dishes include paellas, Vera Cruz dishes, and Baja tacos, fresh guacamole made at your table, and tasty, traditional Mexican fare. Born in Lebanon, Rita emigrated to Atlanta in 1980, and utilized her country’s love of food and eating to open Mexico Lindo in 2003. Rita also loves to cater

under A Roman Affair catering, where she offers Mexican, Mediterranean, and Italian dishes, as well as barbecue, for parties, weddings, business events, and more. “Why eat frozen food when you can pick up a tray of fresh burritos?” asks Rita. Rita prepares Mediterranean food with 24 hours’ notice, and is happy to cook for folks who are time-challenged. Rita enjoys having her 13-year-old daughter, Nawal, with her at work. “She’s my sidekick,” Rita says. “She could run this business.”

Rita’s mother, Judy Eid, was the head appraiser at the Jimmy Carter Museum in Atlanta.

The BrightStar Team f there’s anything you need for an aging or ill loved one – from professional, in-home personal care to transportation, lawn services, house cleaning, and more – BrightStar will take care of it.

“With BrightStar, I have found a high-quality home care service model that will make more possible for all of our clients,” says owner Will Lowder, a former utility executive whose experience with home care for his parents inspired him to open BrightStar in April 2009.

Will’s wife, Debbi, brings her skills as a human resources professional to BrightStar to provide staffing and recruiting of personnel for medical offices from within or outside its network of medical employees. Prospective employees are interviewed and paid for by BrightStar for 45 days at no risk to the medical office. Growing at a steady rate with a requirement of maintaining quality, BrightStar will focus on its Greenville market in 2010, and plans to expand across the Upstate thereafter.

101 N. PINE ST., SUITE 315 SPARTANBURG 864.573.7012 24/7 LIVE VOICE ANSWER www.brightstarcare.com LIFE CARE

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Photograph by: Carri Bass

A year later, Will is gratified to provide top-tier home healthcare services by skilled care-givers overseen by full-time RN, Cori Duguay, and executed by a service

model that always goes the extra mile for clients.

DID YOU KNOW?

Will Lowder is an electrical engineer.

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Photograph by: Carri Bass

99 S. CHURCH ST. SPARTANBURG 864.573.9742 TUES.-THURS. 5:30-11PM FRI. 5PM-1AM SAT. 6PM-1AM SUN. 12-4PM www.bluesboulevardjazz.com JAZZ CLUB

DID YOU KNOW?

Mark Sullivan ark Sullivan has come home, and he brought Blues Boulevard Jazz with him.

After a career on the move through big cities from Washington, DC, to Houston, TX, as a VP of Development for a national brand, the Byrnes High School graduate chose to open the first Blues Boulevard Jazz (a soon-to-be franchise concept) in his hometown – not only because of the demographics, but also to rejoin his large family. The club features live jazz, food, and drinks in a sophisticated atmosphere that customers liken to big city jazz clubs. The cozy club offers a place where adults can relax. “It’s a place where adults can

Mark is trying to adopt a child as a single father.

relax and be themselves,” says Mark, who imposes a 25-and-over age limit on Fridays and Saturdays. Jazz musicians from as far away as New Orleans and Washington, DC, perform, as well as local favorites. Blues Boulevard focuses on charity as well by supporting a local children’s charity with a special function on the last Tuesday every month. The charities receive cover charge proceeds and a percentage of the profits. Mark serves on a number of local boards, and enjoys taking dressage riding lessons.

Upstate Lutheran Hospice Team

hey serve the terminally ill, but the folks at Lutheran Hospice definitely aren’t focused on death. Instead, they emphasize the quality of each client’s living so every moment can be enriched to the fullest.

Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease—when they can no longer choose or benefit from curative treatments.

Families facing end-of-life medical decisions DO have choices and since 1995 many of them have chosen this local, ministry-based hospice—a program that promises compassionate, person-centered care for people of all faiths.

Lutheran Hospice, serving Greenville, Spartanburg, Cherokee and Laurens counties, comes to wherever the client calls home, with care based upon a life-affirming plan tailored to each individual’s physical, emotional and spiritual needs. Support is also extended to all family/caregivers involved in a patient’s life, with an emphasis on both practical and emotional concerns; in fact, bereavement support services are available for an additional year after the patient passes.

The interdisciplinary team at Lutheran Hospice serves patients with life-limiting illnesses or injuries—cancer, pulmonary, kidney, neurological or heart disorders,

Lutheran Hospice puts a competent, compassionate face on end-of-life care. The staff sincerely believes their work is not simply a job—it’s a calling.

218-A TRADE ST. GREER 864.848.1777; 888.547.2562 www.lutheranhospice.org HOSPICE CARE

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Photograph by: Monica Parkkonen

With Lutheran Hospice, it’s about how you live.

DID YOU KNOW?

Lutheran Hospice celebrates its 15th anniversary this year.

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Photograph by: Stephen Vitosky

Sam Erwin & Lee Dixon

306 E. NORTH STREET GREENVILLE 1-800-PAL-BANK 8:00AM-6PM MONDAY-FRIDAY 9:00AM-12PM SATURDAY WWW.PALMETTOBANK.COM BANKING

DID YOU KNOW?

ven though The Palmetto Bank President and Chief Executive Officer, Sam Erwin, and Chief Operating Officer, Lee Dixon, differ when it comes to the Tigers and the Gamecocks, they’re clearly on the same team at The Palmetto Bank—leading the bank into the future, with a passion to live the strong values developed for over 104 years. “We are very excited about the future,” Sam says. “Our team is committed to making sure we move forward with new, innovative ways of banking while offering the same outstanding customer service, expert advice, and convenient banking for each of our clients.” The Palmetto Bank combines friendly,

personal service with innovative financial products and services – including all day deposit credit and extended business hours. It provides personal and business banking accounts as well as trust, investment, insurance and mortgage lending, backed by dedicated employees offering expert advice for all your banking needs. The Palmetto Bank is also deeply committed to enriching the Upstate community. Thanks to the support of loyal customers, The Palmetto Bank is entering its second century of serving the Upstate. Come visit any one of their branches and experience The Palmetto Bank’s personalized service!

The Palmetto Bank was the ﬁrst bank in the Upstate to offer Saturday banking, in 1986.

10X Group

Group’s mantra: use communication to make you stand out. For 7 years they’ve put the sizzle in marketing, PR and communication to differentiate organizations and fatten their bottom lines. Owner Holly Rollins and Social Media/SEO Partner Scott Stevens say new tools such as Facebook are just another sophisticated smoke signal; another essential part of PR. They stress: businesses need to embrace digital communication or they will be as marketable as the once lauded pager.

10x’s niches include economic/workforce development, non-profits, Millennials, health, construction, and advanced manufacturing. 10x teams with more than 10 professionals to make businesses stand out – in a world not standing still.

104 W. BRoAd St. GReenville 864.420.1127 www.10-xgroup.com

Photograph provided.

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Rollins has a substantial background in results-driven communication and PR with community leaders and industry. Her experience spans marketing and

economic development at the Greenville Chamber, global health care marketing and web management, then more economic development marketing as one of the Upstate Alliance founders. Stevens, with more than 12 years in web design and business strategy, is a soughtafter search engine optimization and social media expert. He has helped clients such as the Greater Greer Chamber experience a 100%-plus increase in their web site traffic and social media presence.

DID YOU KNOW?

Rollins co-owns a firm that gives 4-yr housing scholarships to several disadvantaged honor students via the Horatio Alger Assoc. 21

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Photograph provided.

Lady Gardner & Dina Hair 1 MARTHA FRANKS DRIVE LAURENS 864.984.4541 www.marthafranks.com RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

DID YOU KNOW?

hen Martha Franks Baptist Retirement Community opened the doors to its first residents in 1985, Dina Hair was there to greet them.

Dina worked as activity director after attending Presbyterian College and later Clemson University, and since that time has worked her way up to executive director of the community. Dinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proven commitment to the residents has made her an invaluable part of the Martha Franks ministry. Lady Gardner was among those first residents welcomed by Dina, and the two are still enjoying one

anotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s company today. In fact, when Mrs. Gardner was widowed many years ago, Dina invited her to spend Christmas with her own family, extending her love beyond the workplace and into the heart of this precious senior. This is just one example of the many special bonds shared between residents and staff and the feeling of family so evident at Martha Franks. The staff is honored to be celebrating 25 years of the Martha Franks Baptist Retirement Community, where seniors truly do live better.

Founder, Miss Martha Franks, was from Laurens and spent over 40 years as a missionary to China.

The Mast General Store Team veryone loves going to Mast General Store— especially the folks who work there!

“This is THE best place to work,” says General Manager Mary Nase. Indeed, there’s never a dull moment in downtown’s favorite retail destination, where the inventory ranges from whimsical to rugged to downright delicious.

Working with Mast has been the highlight of Mary’s 32-year retailing career. She says her job is made easy by a strong management team—Tim Dorsey, Bryan Howell, and Eddie Poore—as well as a loyal staff. And because Mast is employee-owned, everyone is truly vested in ensuring the company’s success. “We have outstanding employees who love working here,” says Mary. “That translates into great customer service. We also have a strong commitment to our community. Collecting shoes and coats is just one way we can give back and help others. We find that our customers are just as committed as we are.”

111 N. MAIN ST. GREENVILLE 864.235.1883 MON.-THURS. 10AM-6PM, FRI.-SAT. 10AM-9PM, SUN. NOON-6PM www.mastgeneralstore.com OLD-FASHIONED GENERAL STORE

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Photograph by: Carol Stewart

The original Mast General Store opened 127 years ago in Valle Crucis, NC. The emphasis on “a little bit of everything” extends to Greenville’s Main Street location, which opened in Spring 2003 and became a fast-favorite for its friendly atmosphere and free-ranging selection of old-time mercantile goods, toys, casual clothing, comfortable footwear, travel

accessories, outdoor gear and, of course, more than 500 varieties of candy.

DID YOU KNOW?

One of Tim’s previous occupations was policeman.

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Photograph by: Monica Parkkonen

10 FOUNTAINVIEW TERRACE GREENVILLE 864.233.6367 www.thecascadesverdae.com ACTIVE RETIREMENT & CONTINUING CARE COMMUNITY

DID YOU KNOW?

The Cascades ike a five-star hotel. Only better, because it’s home!

Cascades Verdae has refined—and redefined— retirement living. Aging is truly graceful in this gated community, where you’ll find upscale housing, resort-style amenities and, of course, incomparable service. The luxurious, maintenancefree lifestyle offers abundant opportunity for physical, intellectual and spiritual enrichment. There’s vitality all around, from the Fitness Center & Spa (complete with pools, exercise studios, wellness classes, massage therapy and more) to the Cascades Clubhouse (think ballroom, billiards, library, arts/music

studios, even a movie theater) to New Perspectives, an immersion-based educational program. Independent living options include charming cottages and townhomes with up to three bedrooms, plenty of living space and designer details such as granite counters, hardwood floors and fine fixtures. Because lifestyle needs evolve, Cascades Verdae’s continuum of care also comprises Linville Courts, where residents receive assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing services. Cascades Verdae is owned/operated by a homegrown company committed to seniors who deserve the best.

Dining Director John Malik’s culinary skills have been featured in Southern Living, Bon Appetit and Chile Pepper magazines.

Anna Locke nna Locke has got your number.

This savvy CPA is expert at helping clients make the most of their financial reporting. Beyond fulfilling typical outsourced accounting functions—from bookkeeper to controller to CFO—her firm, A.T. LOCKE, provides what for many a business owner is too often missing: the indepth analysis that’s critical for decision making.

Though Anna stays engrossed in her work, she has a busy personal life, too. She supports the community in many ways—she’s on the board of the Center for Developmental Services, for example—and is an active member of First Presbyterian Church. “Greenville is a great place. My husband Sidney and I have been fortunate enough to visit many other places around the world, but we wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.”

68 POINTE CIRCLE, SUITE 2202 GREENVILLE 864.908.3062 www.atlocke.com ACCOUNTING SERVICES

Photograph provided.

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“I get a lot of energy from interacting with clients,” says Anna, a Clemson grad who previously worked for Top 40 and independent firms. “It is exciting to see them begin to understand how to use the numbers in a whole new way.”

Facilitating her clients’ success has led to her own, and Anna’s rapidly growing firm recently moved into new digs. “We finally have a building to fit everybody,” she says, “so no more staff meetings in coffee shops!”

DID YOU KNOW?

Anna and her husband, Sidney, met in the 4th grade.

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Photograph by: Kris Decker/Firewater Photography

Margaret and Robin Newton 1125 WOODRUFF ROAD, SUITE 1703 THE SHOPS AT GREENRIDGE GREENVILLE 864.627.8004 www.diamondschoice.com JEWELER

DID YOU KNOW?

OW! That describes Diamonds Choice’s new location and store at the Shops at Greenridge on Woodruff Road. The Diamonds Choice team has doubled their efforts towards service, quality and overall satisfaction of everyone that has supported them by making Diamonds Choice their jewelry store of choice. With new beginnings and engagements Diamonds Choice specializes in hand-picked and one-of-a-kind bridal designs from Hearts on Fire, Michael M, and their very own Signature Collection. They also offer a wide variety of fashion jewelry that truly stands apart in both style and quality. Their long-standing

Both Robin and Margaret are Master Jewelers.

relationships in the industry allow them to keep their selection totally fresh and exciting for you. They have the ability to manufacture and custom design anything your heart may desire. Diamonds Choice has a unique selection combined with unsurpassing service that has earned them a loyal client base … and it is growing every day. “We feel truly blessed and thankful for our continued success and growth,” says Margaret Newton. To you who are looking for that something special, give Diamonds Choice an opportunity to show you what they can do for you.

Ken Gamble & Bill Ledbetter hen Ken Gamble started his auto maintenance business, he had a $2,000 loan and his driveway as company headquarters.

“Our mission is to take care of our customers, and ensure they get a good product at a good price,” says Ken, who uses Auto Check to access the car’s history and a buying service to locate any car a customer wants. Ken and his partner, Bill Ledbetter, have much in common. Both have four children, grandchildren, and are active in church. Ken hosts The Driving Line, a radio call-in show, every Saturday at 10 a.m. on 106.3 WORD Radio.

E. MAIN AT HILLCREST MALL SPARTANBURG 864.585.7676 / 864.486.0120 MON.-FRI. 7:30AM-5:30PM NORTH HILLS AUTO SALES 1 PELHAM ROAD GREENVILLE 864.235.1728 MON.-FRI. 7:30AM-DUSK SAT. 9AM-5PM www.northhillsauto.com FULL-SERVICE AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR/ AUTO SALES

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Photograph by: Monica Parkkonen

Twenty-four years later, North Hills Automotive has five locations in Greenville and Spartanburg, and offers full-service automotive repair including oil changes, brakes, engine replacement, tune-ups, and tires. All of North Hills Automotive’s technicians are certified, and every job carries an exclusive one-year, unlimited-mile warranty. Service technician Tom Eberly earned the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Technician of the Year for North America in 2002.

North Hills Auto Sales has been selling cars and trucks of all kinds for 20 years – all selected by Ken and put through a 120-point inspection.

DID YOU KNOW?

For every $1 spent on maintenance, $5 is saved on repairs.

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Photograph by: Monica Parkkonen

Paula & Vicky Makkas

101C WEST COURT ST. GREENVILLE 864.241.0730 www.thepoinsettbride.com MON.-FRI. 10AM-5:30PM SATURDAY 10AM-4PM AFTER HOURS BY APPOINTMENT BRIDAL BOUTIQUE/ALTERATIONS

DID YOU KNOW?

aula and Vicky Makkas don’t believe in just selling dresses. They believe in giving their customers an experience. At the Poinsett Bride, you know you’ll be treated more like family than customer, with the personal touch other retailers just can’t match.

mothers-of-the-bride seeking sophistication and style for their daughter’s big day, customers looking for cocktail wear that fits and flatters.

“A wedding is so personal,” says Vicky, who opened the boutique five years ago with her mother-in-law Paula. “It’s not like buying a pair of jeans. It is a long process and Paula and I bond with each bride.”

Paula, who has been sewing since age 11, is the on-site expert who can make miracles happen, from extensive alterations and custom veils to updating the most delicate 40-year-old gown. She has even been known to offer out-of-town brides fittings with same-day service, and is sought-after to help dress debutantes and brides prior to events and portraits.

Paula’s decades of sewing experience combined with Vicky’s business expertise means every customer walks out happy: debutantes attending their first ball,

“I believe there is a solution for everything,” Paula says. “We are passionate about it. If it can happen, we will make it happen.”

Vicky and Paula are both eagerly awaiting a new arrival this year – Vicky is expecting a little sister for 1-year-old son Toli.

Mediasation Web Solutions

or over eight years, Mediasation has helped local businesses reach their online potential. What started out as a venture to improve the way people manage their web content has grown into a passion for helping businesses achieve their goals. Each member of our team of creative professionals is unique and provides a particular skill that ensures our clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; success online.

Based in Greenville, Mediasation works with small and mid-sized businesses throughout the Upstate and Southeast. We are proud to call Greenville home and look forward to continuing to work with other local businesses.

3453 PELHAM ROAD, SUITE 207 GREENVILLE 1.877.WEB-EDGE www.mediasation.com WEB DEVELOPMENT

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Photograph by: Monica Parkkonen

Mediasation produces elegant, modern designs and copy that tells you what you want to know. Plus we have the top search engine optimization talent in townâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;just ask our clients. After all, what good is your

new website if no one can find it? All of our websites, regardless of complexity or price-point, are managed with our Mediasation CMS and include a real, live support person to answer questions and provide advice. All built on a platform supported by the best geeks in town.

DID YOU KNOW?

Mediasation manages over 600 websites for local businesses.

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Photograph by: Carol Stewart

The Charter Communications Team 2 DIGITAL PLACE SIMPSONVILLE 888.438.2427 www.charter.com INTERNET, CABLE & TELEPHONE SERVICE

DID YOU KNOW?

hat matters to you, matters to Charter. That’s why the company’s 600-plus local employees work hard every day to bring good things to the life of the Upstate.

“We want to be the preferred provider for TV, Internet and phone service,” says Anthony Pope, Vice President and General Manager. “We’re committed to offering the best, most reliable products and great customer care—service, quality and value.” Tuning in to the community is all in a day’s work at Charter; of course, the company provides top-of-theline telecommunications services, but what truly sets it apart is a dedicated focus on philanthropy. Charter

and its local employees, who work out of the company headquarters in Simpsonville, donate hundreds of hours and sponsorship support to a variety of Upstate causes: Hands On Greenville, The Salvation Army, Big Brothers/Big Sisters of the Upstate, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, MLK Dream Weekend and many more. Corporate citizenship is a core value at Charter as they work to take an active role in social, environmental and community concerns that make a difference in the lives of others. So when you choose Charter services for your home, you’re helping a “bundle” of causes that matter to the Upstate.

Charter provides cable and Internet services to all public schools in the company’s service areas.

Darin Hale, M.D. elping people feel better is all in a day’s work for Darin Hale, M.D.

As an emergency room doctor at St. Francis Hospital, he deals with a vast, varied assortment of acute situations. When he changes scrubs into his other role, as director of HRC Medical Center, he treats symptoms—still urgent—that are slow, subtle and sometimes explained away as merely the unavoidable consequence of aging.

“We give people their lives back,” Dr. Hale says, noting HRC’s simple procedure not only restores vitality but also appears to reverse osteoporosis and lower blood pressure and cholesterol. HRC Medical Center was founded in 2005, by Dr. Hale’s father and uncle, based on intense research into longevity and anti-aging possibilities. The family doesn’t just prescribe the restorative process to others—Dr. Hale and his wife, a pharmacist, both enjoy the benefits of bio-equivalent hormones. “It has changed our lives completely,” he says. “We really do feel wonderful.”

301 HALTON ROAD, SUITE A GREENVILLE 864.234.5000 MON.-FRI. 9AM-5PM www.hrcmedical.com BIO-EQUIVALENT HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY

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Photograph by: Stephen Vitosky

At HRC, Dr. Hale sees men and women with complaints such as fatigue, depression, weight gain, migraines and low sex drive—all of which indicate out-of-balance hormones. His solution is bio-equivalent hormone replacement therapy, an effective, all-natural

method to return your body’s chemistry to its peak in health, strength, mental clarity and sexual prowess.

DID YOU KNOW?

Dr. Hale worked as an attorney before deciding to pursue a medical degree.

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Photograph by: Monica Parkkonen

104 BROADUS AVE. GREENVILLE 864.233.0808 www.falegacy.com WEALTH MANAGEMENT

DID YOU KNOW?

Chris & William Brown f you’re looking for a quick fix or sudden windfall, don’t call Chris Brown. But if you want a long-term plan, steady success and a legacy that will last for generations, Family Legacy is the place to start.

“We’re not looking for a home run,” says Brown. “We think people do well going slow and steady. That good habit base – doing the right thing consistently – is what makes you healthy and wealthy.” Chris and his father, William Brown, opened Family Legacy in 1995 after clients asked for services including big-picture financial planning, small business consulting, tax planning and retirement planning.

Despite the recession, business has picked up in the past few months as people realize they need to assess their financial priorities and put a plan in place that helps them achieve it. “We don’t tell people what to do,” Brown says. “We just help them do it.” Chris grew up in the Greenville area and appreciates the growth and diversity that have transformed the city since his high school days at Shannon Forest Christian School. He also appreciates having his father, who is actively involved with the Peace Center and the Greenville Symphony, as business partner and role model.

Chris Brown keeps centered and calm with regular yoga sessions.

SECURITY

fter 35 years in business, the American Services team knows how to get the

and marketing experience to the table; he is

job done. They have built a staff

a 26-year veteran with the company and is

of experienced leaders that is hard to match. The

S TA FFI N G

realm of clients touched by American Services stretches from hospitals and textile plants to sports arenas and gated communities; they are dedicated to securing, staffing, and cleaning whatever your

JANITORIAL

American Services. ces. Paul Nipper brings business

needs may be.

President of Strategic Affairs. One of the latest additions to the team has been Mike Gardner, who formerly served as Captain of the SCHP Troop 3, but is now Director of Hospital Security. American Security is the leading provider for hospital security in the Southeast and much of

The experience of the staff speaks for itself. Henry Harrison, the Chairman and CEO, comes from a long background with the South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP). Jim Ward, President of American Services, heads up the staffing and janitorial divisions, and has years of experience leading multiple J.P. Stevens textile plants. Then there is Randy Harrison, who served with the SCHP and SLED divisions for over 23 years.

the success is attributed to Gardnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leadership and outstanding certifications in the field. He now serves as Chairman of the International Association of Healthcare Security and Safety (IAHSS) and ensures that his employees also receive the highest quality of IAHSS training available. Experience like this allows American Services, Inc. to put the strongest team possible together working for you.

Ricky Pruitt, Murray Fant and many of the leaders on the team left careers with SC Law Enforcement Division and the SCHP to work with

(Pictured left to right: Mike Gardner, Randy Harrison, Henry C. Harrison, Jim Ward and Paul Nipper)

1300 Rutherford Rd., Greenville 864.292.7450 | www.American-Services-Inc.com33

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Photograph by: Carol Stewart

411 UNIVERSITY RIDGE, SUITE 100, GREENVILLE 864.232.9840 www.onpointcfo.com OUTSOURCED CFO & CONTROLLER SERVICES OUTSOURCED ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT

DID YOU KNOW?

The OnPoint Team

rian Clark and the OnPoint team like to get their hands dirty. They enjoy “digging into client situations, working hand-in-hand with them to understand where they are and plan for the future.” That’s why after 12 years in public accounting, Clark started OnPoint CFO & Controller Services to offer CFO, Controller and Bookkeeping services to entities who are in need of such services but do not need them on a full-time basis. Clients get expert advice and planning while only paying for what they need.

level positions in industry, as well as management positions in major regional accounting firms. From manufacturing to technology, professional services to construction, medical practices to non-profits, the OnPoint team is ready to jump in and get started.

Collectively, members of the OnPoint team have more than 100 years of combined accounting and consulting experience. The team features talented associates who have held CFO and controller

“The theory is to allow business owners to do what they do best – cultivate their idea and grow the business,” Clark says. “We’ll handle the accounting and the administrative side.”

OnPoint recently added an administrative component through OnPoint Administrative Solutions, which offers virtual office services from Greenville’s NEXT Innovation Center, including conference rooms, reception and secretarial service.

During middle school, Brian had an interview with hall of famer Yogi Berra about being a bat boy for the New York Yankees.

The Propel HR Team

ow more than ever, businesses need ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality of service. Propel HR offers an easy way to do just that – outsource human resources, payroll and benefits, and watch the savings build, knowing that your employees are taken care of. President Lee Yarborough and her father, Braxton Cutchin, opened their first business in 1996, and after a decade of success, restructured as Propel HR in 2007.

But as the business grows, Yarborough ensures her business maintains the personal touch. “It’s a customer-service business, and we make sure we take care of each client’s individual needs,” she says. When Yarborough isn’t working, she and husband Hubert, also with the company, spend time with their children, ages 7 and 3, and are active school volunteers. Pictured below are Braxton Cutchin, Aaron Cullip, Linda Hundrieser, Cindy Yeargin, Paul Garrigan, Lee Yarborough and Hubert Yarborough.

669 ACADEMY ST. GREENVILLE 864.271.7611 www.propelhr.com PAYROLL AND HUMAN RESOURCES SERVICES

behind the counter | 2010

Photograph by: Carol Stewart

As the economy struggled in 2009, Propel HR flourished as large businesses sought ways to save, “and with us, they get a whole team of experts vs. one or two people,” Yarborough says. The success has led the

company to expand, with especially strong growth in the Georgia market. Propel HR now does payroll in all 50 states.

DID YOU KNOW?

Propel HR employees take turns delivering meals for Meals on Wheels.

behind the counter | 2010

Photograph by: Stephen Vitosky

2 DIGITAL PLACE GREENVILLE 864.254.7251 or 888.459.8399 COMMERCIAL INTERNET/VIDEO/ PHONE SERVICE www.charter-business.com bundle your services & save

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Charter Business aving money doesn’t mean settling for less – just ask the folks at Charter Business®!

As the business unit of Charter Communications, Charter Business provides telephone, Internet and video over a secure, reliable network. With the help of its dedicated employees – who live and work in the Upstate – the company delivers solid, local customer support for your business communications needs. Plus, when you bundle two or more services from Charter Business, you enjoy savings off of the standard rates. Charter Business Telephone™ is reliable and cost effective; make the switch and keep your same telephone number and existing equipment. Work with your local representative and choose from a number of

great options – Caller ID, Hunt Group, Call Waiting, 3-Way Calling and Call Forwarding – to create the perfect phone package for your business. Charter Business High-Speed Internet™ has everything you need to connect your business to the world. Charter offers a variety of speed combinations – from up to 2Mbps x 2Mbps, 8Mbps x 2Mbps, 10Mbps x 1Mbps, 20 Mbps x 2Mbps – plus custom or non-custom email accounts. Charter’s Internet will fit the needs of your business now and as you grow. Enjoy crystal-clear, reliable video service with no need for satellite dishes or antennas. Charter offers multiple programming packages, so you get the right channels at the right price.

Charter is a top sponsor of the BMW Charity Pro-Am, which beneﬁts charities throughout the Carolinas.

TRIO Resources Team n 2008, Joni Baker Young lived every employee’s nightmare—she was laid off. After sorting through the grief and shock, she founded TRIO Resources.

Her business is rooted in a 15-year career in outplacement that assists companies facing lay offs. No one likes terminations without cause—not management and certainly not workers. TRIO helps managers facing difficult decisions preserve morale with existing associates and protect their company’s reputation while doing what’s right for laid off workers. TRIO works with blue collar workers to CEOs and everyone in between. “I think anyone laid off,

regardless of their salary, deserves excellent service to help them move forward,” she says. Her task is two-fold: help management plan for a layoff, and work with those affected to cope with the intricacies of unemployment and job search preparation. TRIO offers outplacement only, allowing personal attention and relationship building. Going through the cycle with TRIO’s team yields success for the worker and company. “For many people,” says Young alluding, to her own professional rebirth, “it’s a chance for a total do-over.”

112 GUESS ST. GREENVILLE 864.235.0085 trioresources.biz

behind the counter | 2010

Photograph by: Stephen Vitosky

CAREER TRANSITION

DID YOU KNOW?

TRIO Resources is named for Joni’s four-year-old triplets. Twelve-year-old son Rhett completes the family!

behind the counter | 2010

Photograph by: Carol Stewart

G 9 SEAGRASS COURT MAULDIN 864.284.6160 gromvision.com CORPORATE MARKETING, TRAINING VIDEOS

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Greg Grom

reg Grom bought his first Betacam video camera in college. By the time he graduated from Kent State University in 1994 with a degree in video production, he was already working as a professional cameraman shooting footage for video production companies, corporate video departments, advertising agencies and even Cleveland Browns football games. This year Greg, who lives in Mauldin with his wife Mary Ellen and their children, is celebrating his 15th anniversary as one of the Upstate’s best-known freelance videographers. His clients include BMW

and other local manufacturing companies, advertising agencies and an assortment of small businesses. Greg specializes in producing corporate marketing and training videos for use in Web, DVD and Blu-Ray formats. He caters to businesses that want superior quality without necessarily paying the premium cost of a traditional, full-service production company. Using high-end multi-format cameras and advanced video editing technology, GROMVISION delivers with stunning HD images that lend that big production look but at an affordable price.

Greg Grom has been a cameraman for Carolina Panther football games since the team’s ﬁrst season in Charlotte in 1996.

The Brand Rocket Team veryone understands the importance of a website to their business. But what elements are necessary to make your website, and your business, successful?

Though different companies with different expertise, Rocket and Mediasation come together at the conference room. Rocket can now help companies meet their marketing needs under the same roof as Mediasation.

3453 PELHAM ROAD, SUITE 207 GREENVILLE 1.877.WEB-EDGE www.mediasation.com MARKETING

behind the counter | 2010

Photograph by: Monica Parkkonen

In 2009, Elizabeth Leventis partnered with Mediasation, a pioneer in providing web solutions for nearly a decade, to meet these challenges. As principal at The Brand Rocket, Leventis explains, “Because the web is fast becoming a central component in your marketing plan, we formed ‘Rocket’ to coordinate expertise for your website needs with expertise for your marketing – from branding to traditional and social media – so that they work better together.”

With the growing importance of interactive platforms as a way to attract and engage new customers, Rocket helps businesses identify the right tools fit to their needs. “The beauty of Rocket is that our solutions all work together, from both technical and strategic points of view. Not to mention the hassles we save clients from trying to coordinate between a web and ad agency to get their needs met,” Leventis adds.

DID YOU KNOW?

Elizabeth played professional volleyball in Argentina for three months.

behind the counter | 2010

Photograph by: Carol Stewart

1661 E. MAIN ST. EASLEY 1.877.859.4709 ADDITIONAL LOCATIONS IN GREER, SENECA, SIMPSONVILLE, TRAVELERS REST, AND greenville www.advancedpro.biz PROSTHETICS

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Phillip Peters

hen an amputee needs a new prosthesis, it helps to work with someone who really understands. Phillip Peters does, because he’s been there. A below-the-knee amputee since the age of 15, he knows the importance of fit and comfort. That’s why he decided to open his own business, Advanced Prosthetics. “Phillip is committed to getting people up and walking,” says Miriam Peters, Phillip’s wife. Phillip and his team make sure each patient’s device is just right. The desire is to get people back to their lives. As a father of two who enjoys hiking, water skiing, and car racing, he is proof that a disability doesn’t

have to slow you down. Phillip was born in Tennessee but moved to the Upstate and attended Parker High School. Miriam grew up in southern Greenville County. They met at Shriners Hospital, where she worked in the prosthetics/orthotics department, and married a year later. They strive to provide exceptional patient care for all their patients. They offer upper and lower extremity prostheses, as well as orthopedic braces, mastectomy products, and shoes designed for diabetics. Now with six locations, they offer high-tech products fit by certified practitioners.

Phillip Peters races cars in the Charger division at Greenville Pickens Speedway.

Chris Corley hris Corley has built a company on which you can depend.

What’s his secret? Over the course of his 25 years in business, Chris has learned one important lesson: His employees are the face of the company.

15 technicians and a total of 30 on staff, Chris’ technicians attend weekly sessions that cover training, questions and answers, and customer responsiveness.

A full-service residential/commercial plumbing and electrical company, Corley Plumbing and Electric covers the Greenville/Spartanburg area. Now with

Chris and his wife Donna enjoy spending time with their five children and co-leading his youngest son’s cub scout group.

300 BEN HAMBY DRIVE GREENVILLE 864.542.0817 MON.-SAT. 7AM-9PM REGULAR RATES EMERGENCY SERVICES 24/7 www.corleypro.com RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL PLUMBING AND ELECTRICAL SERVICES

behind the counter | 2010

Photograph by: Monica Parkkonen

“Customers need to trust their service people,” says Chris, who is meticulous in his screening and hiring process. “We hire for technical expertise, but also for the integrity and character that our company represents.”

Chris’ entire team is passionate about making a difference in other people’s lives. “We go way beyond just fixing plumbing and electrical problems,” Chris says, “by giving much more in value than we take in payment, serving well and placing our customers’ interests above our own.”

DID YOU KNOW?

As a young man, Chris hitchhiked around the country.

behind the counter | 2010

Photograph by: Stephen Vitosky

Sharp Business Systems of South Carolina 109 BEN HAMBY DRIVE GREENVILLE 864.675.2000 www.sharpusa.com DOCUMENT TECHNOLOGY

DID YOU KNOW?

hen David Kearns purchased a small Easley office products company in 1981, he couldn’t have imagined its future. Sharp Business Systems, as it’s now known, has grown into an industry leader in the complex, everchanging world of document technology. Kearns established himself selling everything from paper clips to office furnishings and servicing calculators. In the late-90s, the business was bought by another entrepreneur, Tony Pater, who tripled sales while ushering Kearns into the digital age. The company was then purchased in 2008 by Sharp Electronics Corporation, a global leader in LCDs, solar technology and office equipment.

Today, Sharp Business Systems sells and services its premier line of environmentally-friendly multi-functional devices and printers, professional LCD monitors and projectors and complimentary software tools. What remains unchanged, however, is the Kearns tradition of responsive, personalized service. With its experienced sales force and trained specialists, Sharp customers don’t simply buy office equipment; they’re guaranteed a service plan customized to maximize efficiency and convenience while saving money. “We’re all about taking care of customers,” says Director of Technology Solutions, Ken Stewart. “They’re what matters.”

Despite the down economy Sharp continues to expand and hire locally.

Geoff Hart & John Cessarich t’s more than reporting.

signing, briefly, with the New England Patriots. A Kansas upbringing sparked John’s fascination with weather in all its many manifestations. He spent eight years as a volunteer tornado spotter and chaser—talk about a stormy adolescence!—and once flew through the eye of a hurricane. This affinity for Nature’s furies is matched by a sunny disposition along with a solid commitment to community service.

Geoff has been a sports fanatic—and an outstanding athlete—from the moment he first kicked a ball. He spent his soccer-obsessed childhood in Britain, then crossed the pond as a teen and immediately fell for “American football.” He was a standout place-kicker at Northeastern and played a year semi-pro before

In addition to long lists of individual accolades, Geoff and John are part of a station-wide tradition of excellence highlighted by 12 consecutive South Carolina Associated Press Broadcasters News Station of the Year awards.

505 RUTHERFORD ST. GREENVILLE 864.242.4404 www.WYFF4.com TELEVISION STATION

behind the counter | 2010

Photograph by: Carol Stewart

When Geoff Hart and John Cessarich step in front of the camera, they aren’t merely relaying information—these popular newscasters are sharing their lifelong passions. As WYFF 4’s sports director and chief meteorologist, respectively, Geoff and John have earned widespread acclaim for presenting the day’s events through a prism of genuine enthusiasm.

DID YOU KNOW?

In their most memorable tennis match ever, Geoff and John once played doubles with Boris Becker and John McEnroe.

Photograph by: Carol Stewart

behind the counter | 2010

The Greenville Drive Team 945 S. MAIN ST. GREENVILLE 864.240.4500 greenvilledrive.com BASEBALL

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ame on!

When it comes to family fun, the Greenville Drive really step up to the plate. From the first crack of the bat on Opening Day – that’s April 8, by the way – Fluor Field at the West End is the place to be for an entire season of wholesome, affordable entertainment. With tickets starting at $5, a night at the ballpark costs less than going to the movies. In addition to showcasing the future stars of the Boston Red Sox, the Greenville Drive toss out plenty more enticements, including promotional nights – think Dollar Drink Night, Music Mania/ Fireworks, Spectacular Saturdays, Family Fundays

and Tasty Tuesdays – along with group events such as Birthday Bashes and Picnics in the Park. Mascot Reedy Rip’it makes a perfect pitch for kids. During Field of Dreams outings, for example, youth baseball players get to rub shoulders with the pros. For the littlest fans, there’s a 1,500-squarefoot playground and Reedy’s Rascals Kids Club offering perks such as T-shirts, pennants, trading cards and more. As is fitting for the Red Sox Single-A affiliate, the Drive stadium is modeled after Fenway Park – complete with a “Green Monster” in left field and “Pesky’s Pole” in right field.

The stars will be out in Greenville when Fluor Field hosts the 2010 South Atlantic League All-Star Game on Tuesday, June 22.

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