November/December 2009 Columbia Metropolitan

2 COLUMBIA METROPOLITAN

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

www.columbiametro.com

COLUMBIA METROPOLITAN 3

CONTENTS Volume 20 Number 5

40 Contents Features 40 Columbia’s Greatest Generation World War II heroes tell their stories

By Sam Morton 44 10 Under $10 10 local restaurants that won’t break the bank

By Anne Postic 47 Santa Smarts Questioning (and answering) our holiday traditions

By Janey Goude

50

16

Departments Celebrating 20 Years 14 Celebrating 20 Years With Mayor Bob Coble 15 1989 Rewind West Columbia – a brief breakdown 16 Columbia’s Dog Whisperer Tina Heckman teaches obedience through observation

By Deena C. Bouknight Palmetto Business 20 Giving a New Name to Etiquette Pamela Eyring of The Protocol School of Washington

By Rosanne McDowell Home Style 50 Title Subtitle

20

4 COLUMBIA METROPOLITAN

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

www.columbiametro.com

COLUMBIA METROPOLITAN 5

CONTENTS Volume 20 Number 5

By Margaret Gregory 56 On the Move Wildewood Garden Club’s progressive holiday dinner

By Susan Fuller Slack

34 79

56

6 COLUMBIA METROPOLITAN

Advertising Sections 30 Getting Down to Business 34 Ask the Experts 67 Let’s Go Shopping!

In Every Issue 8 From the Editor 10 City Scoop 28 Spread the Word 64 New to the Neighborhood?

75 Good Eats 79 Just Married/Picture This 80 Out & About

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

www.columbiametro.com

COLUMBIA METROPOLITAN 7

FROM THE EDITOR

H

ave you ever wondered why we hang ornaments on our trees at Christmas time or why we eat turkey at Thanksgiving? If so, we answer all of your questions about holiday traditions in this issue. Not only do we tell you the real reasons behind what we do, but also we asked local Columbians to give us their thoughts. Some folks knew their history, while others found delight in giving us their most creative guesses. Whether you are an expert on the holidays or one who just fancies a good laugh, you’ll enjoy Janey Goude’s enlightening article on page 47.

Just reading about Thanksgiving and Christmas traditions is bound to get you in the mood to climb up into your attic and start decorating for Christmas. If you are anything like me, you dread the process but love the results. In this issue, meet Caroline and Marshall Griffin who obviously love Christmas and will go to great measures to make the most of the season. Not only do they turn their house into a beautiful, sparkling display for friends and family to enjoy, they also house one of the largest Christmas trees in their foyer (as seen on the cover of this issue). With the help of designer Steven Ford, the Griffins are constantly building their collection of oversized ornaments (the size of soccer balls) that fill their tree every year. Celebrating Christmas with the Griffins is sure to get you in the spirit.

Now that you are pulling out your own ornaments and humming “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas,” you are probably starting to think about all that scrumptious holiday food you will enjoy in the next couple of months. Once again, we have just the article for you. Writer Susan Slack gives us the details on a creative party that takes place in WildeWood every year.

This progressive dinner, hosted by numerous families in the Northeast area, has proven to be a much-anticipated party by all involved. From the food to the decorations, the evening is planned to perfection. Susan gives us great tips on planning our own progressive dinners, as well as several favorite holiday recipes from the WildeWood event.

So the tree is up, the food is planned and you are officially in the Christmas frenzy. Now, it’s time to get busy tackling that long list of presents you have put off until the last possible minute. Not to worry, our Let’s Go Shopping section comes to your rescue. Peruse these pages and decide which fabulous local shops to visit before you head out the door. They promise to be stocked with the best selections that will surely make everyone on your list smile.

Hopefully after reading this issue you are well equipped to enjoy the holiday season from start to finish. I hope your Thanksgiving brings great food and family to your table and your Christmas holiday brings joy and laughter to your spirit.

Enjoy the issue.

COLUMBIA M E T R O P O L I T A N PUBLISHER

Henry Clay E D I TO R

Emily Tinch A S S O C I AT E E D I TO R

Robyn Culbertson A S S I S TA N T E D I TO R

Lindsay Niedringhaus E D I TO R I A L A RT D I R E C TO R

Dennis Craighead Design A D V E RT I S I N G S A L E S

Shawn Coward Denise Floyd A D V E RT I S I N G A RT D I R E C TO R

Robyn Culbertson O F F I C E / P R O D U C T I O N / C I R C U L AT I O N MANAGER

Lindsay Niedringhaus CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jessica Berger, Deena Bouknight, Janey Goude, Margaret Gregory, Rosanne McDowell, Sam Morton, Susan Slack P H O TO G R A P H Y

Jeff Amberg, Robert Clark, Jennifer Covington, Bob Lancaster Columbia Metropolitan is published 10 times a year by Clay Publishing, Inc., 3700 Forest Drive, Suite 106, Columbia, S.C. 29204.

Copyright © Columbia Metropolitan 2009.

Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Advertising rates available upon request. The publishers are not responsible for the comments of authors or for unsolicited manuscripts. SUBSCRIPTION price $19.97 a year, $29.97 for two years in the United States. POSTMASTER send address changes to: COLUMBIA METROPOLITAN, P.O. Box 6666, Columbia, South Carolina 29260. (803)787-6501.

Sincerely,

Emily S. Tinch Editor

8 COLUMBIA METROPOLITAN

The article “No Witches or Princesses Here,” from our October 2009 issue, was written by Meredith Good. Our sincere apologies to her for our omission.

About the cover: Caroline and Marshall Griffin’s 19-foot Frasier Fir welcomes visitors to their home at Christmas.

Photography by Robert Clark

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

www.columbiametro.com

COLUMBIA METROPOLITAN 9

CITY SCOOP

Buy a Bead, Build a Bracelet … Together We Can Make a Difference

A

beautiful bracelet that benefits a great cause?

H o w c o u l d yo u s a y n o ?

Dems Fine Jewelers is collaborating with The Pink Posse team to raise money for Palmetto Health Foundation’s Walk for Life … Steps Against Breast Cancer through their unique breast cancer survivors’ program. Dems is honored

10 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

to recognize and celebrate 12 breast cancer survivors with beautiful handmade custom-designed beads.

Each woman has a story, and each bead represents the distinctive story of one of these 12 women. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of each bead benefits breast cancer patients in Columbia’s community.

Dems is already taking nominations for the 2010 Breast Cancer Survivors, each of whom will also be celebrated with a custom-designed bead.

To nominate a survivor, visit Dems Fine Jewelers at 1068 Lake Murray Blvd. in Irmo for a nomination form.

For more information, call (803) 407-5290 or visit www.demsjewelers.com.

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

Emergent Films Launches in Columbia

G

enesis Studios has announced the official launch of Emergent Films – a statewide job and industry development initiative that will facilitate the growth of the motion picture and film industry in South Carolina.

Emergent Films consists of two components: Emergent Foundation and Emergent Films. Emergent Foundation is a nonprofit that will raise funds for educational projects, allowing students to train under professionals during a boot camp and actual on-set experience. Emergent Films recruits investors to fund individual projects. Each year, two to three short genre films and one feature-length, familyfriendly film will be produced using experienced professionals as paid department heads.

‘‘We are committed to building a motion picture industry in this state one brick at a time.’’

Cliff Springs, Genesis Studios president Cliff Springs, Genesis Studios president, says about the project, “We are committed to building a motion picture industry in this state one brick at a time. We want to make sure that in five years, producers, writers, directors and all crew positions are better off than they are now.”

Cliff is spearheading the venture along with Les Carroll, the public relations director at McEntire Air National Guard Base and a published author and screenwriter. Mark Ellis, a premiere sports coordinator working in films, serves on the Board of Advisors.

Says Les, “We want to see experienced professionals in the state have opportunities to work year round while also serving as mentors to college students and recent graduates so that they can become the filmmakers of tomorrow.”

www.columbiametro.com

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 11

Big Wheels at EdVenture H ow does a machine push all that sand? How do garbage trucks work? Children who love things on wheels will really enjoy EdVenture Children’s Museum’s “Big Wheels – Machines in Motion” event on Saturday, Nov. 7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Not only can children get up close and personal with a large variety of trucks, emergency vehicles and other machines that make big impacts on our lives, but they also can touch the equipment and learn the jobs of each machine. Vehicles included are a fire truck, cement mixer and hydrogen bus, as well as several large construction machines such as a front loader and bulldozer.

Even very little ones can join in the fun with a “Machines for Tots” area.

12 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

For the more active tykes, the event will have a Big Wheels obstacle course, a train ride, an Interactive Simple Machines Construction Show and a “Horn Honk” in the afternoon. And when the kids get hungry, the museum even provides refreshments.

Can’t get enough? Then hang out all weekend as EdVenture celebrates its 6th birthday!

“Big Wheels – Machines in Motion” is free with museum admission. For more information, visit www.edventure.org.

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

Forest Acres is Sweet for the Holidays

F

or the sixth year in a row, Forest Acres will host its annual holiday event, Sweet Seasons, on the rooftop of Midtown at Forest Acres on the corner of Beltline Boulevard and Forest Drive. Sprinkled with food, music and giveaways, the event is free and open to the public.

From 6 to 8 p.m. on Dec. 3, Sweet Seasons will have activities for the entire family, including: carolers and holiday music; steel pan band Island Close By; free photos with Santa; face painting; balloon artists; local crafts; and a tree lighting at 7 p.m. with Mayor Frank Brunson. Families can also enjoy holiday fare and goodies from local restaurants available for $1 to $3.

Island Close By

For more information about Forest Acres’ Sweet Seasons, contact Katie Alice Walker at 227-0914 or kcox@rileycommunications.com.  

www.columbiametro.com

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 13

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS WITH Jim Sonefeld, affectionately called Soni, has not only topped Billboard’s charts, but he has also topped Columbia’s charts as one of its most well-known and favorite celebrities. As a founding member, Soni played drums and wrote songs for the rock band Hootie and the Blowfish, which formed in 1986 at USC. The band’s 1994 debut album, “Cracked Rear View,” went platinum 16 times, making it one of the best selling albums of all time.

In 1994, when Soni graced Columbia Metropolitan’s spring issue cover with his band mates, Hootie and the Blowfish was literally on the brink of success. When Soni again smiled on our March/April 2000 cover, one never would have guessed he had traveled thousands of miles and played in front of hundreds of crowds as a rock star.

His quiet charm and easygoing personality reminded us that Soni was still a good ole’ Columbia boy, and his actions have proved it since then.

Soni is currently president of The Animal Mission of the Midlands, a nonprofit organization founded to promote pet adoptions at the City of Columbia Animal Shelter and to educate the public about pet and humane issues. In 2008, Hootie and the Blowfish headlined the Mission’s 2008 Party Animals concert to benefit the cause. The band played some favorite hits as well as some new songs from Soni’s solo album, “Snowman Melting.”

A two-time Grammy winner, nonprofit charity founder and solo artist, Soni leaves us wondering what he’ll do next. Whatever he does do, we do know one thing: we’ll always be proud that he calls Columbia “home.”

Photography by Jeff Amberg

Jim Sonefeld

“My City. My Magazine for the next 20 Years.”

20 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

O C T O B E R 2009

1989 Rewind

By Jessica Berger

Put on your parachute pants, break out the leg warmers and don a jean jacket as we travel back to the era of the first Bush administration. Bon Jovi topped the charts, Madonna was still the bad girl of pop and Milli Vanilli was just bad in general. The year was 1989, and Columbia Metropolitan had begun planning its first issue.

Photography by Jeff Amberg

To mark our 20th year, Columbia Metropolitan will highlight the 1989 happenings of different parts of the Columbia area. Join us as we take a look into the past to recall what happened, as well as what didn’t, and see how much Columbia has changed in two decades.

Shopping district in Chapin

Irmo and Chapin – A Brief Breakdown of 1989

Residents of Chapin celebrated the town’s centennial anniversary with events throughout the year. They also buried a time capsule for future generations.

➤

➤ The Irmo Town Council filed a lawsuit in an Photo courtesy of Irmo Chamber of Commerce

attempt to stop Columbia’s annexation of 3,350 acres between Broad River Road and Harbison Boulevard.

Dutch Fork High School was still unnamed and only in the early planning stages. The growth in population within Columbia’s suburbs had Irmo High School packed to the brim. Lexington-Richland School District 5 broke ground on the new school in October 1990.

➤

Irmo Town Park

➤ Chapin and Irmo residents were abuzz over School District 5’s Photo courtesy of Columbiana Centre

rezoning plan. Many of the boundary lines throughout the district were redrawn, leaving some students displaced.

➤ The construction of Columbiana Centre was under way. The new mall was set to open July 1990 at the intersection of Harbison Boulevard and Interstate 26 in Irmo.

www.columbiametro.com

Columbiana Centre

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 21

LOCAL SEEN

Columbia’s Dog Whisperer Tina Heckman teaches obedience through observation

By Deena C. Bouknight Photography by Jeff Amberg

Barbara Purvis’ dachshund/corgi mix Buster listens to Tina Heckman’s command.

16 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

M

ost of us relate to animals exactly the way we relate to other humans. It’s only natural to think that way. However, as the horse trainer conveyed in the 1998 movie starring Robert Redford, training horses is all about watching how they relate to other horses. The same is true when it comes to dogs.

Tina Heckman has been a premier dog trainer and “dog whisperer” for many years. She says she cannot remember when she wasn’t working with and observing dogs. She has helped hundreds of dog owners in and around Columbia have obedient, respectful, enjoyable and loving relationships with their dogs.

“My overall goal is to keep the dog in a forever good home,” says Tina, who has 11 dogs herself that she has adopted or rescued.

To achieve that goal, Tina offers a five-week training class periodically at Pet Lovers Warehouse, works with owners and dogs at individual homes and will come over to an owner’s home for the day just to work out kinks in behavior and training.

“It’s all about emulating dogs’ behaviors,” she explains. “You incorporate how they relate to one another in your training. There’s no screaming or hitting. That’s why we have so many dogs in our own home, and it’s not chaos. Just clear ‘language’ ... no forcefulness.”

For example, instead of kneeing a dog in the chest, hitting it or yelling a loud, “No!” when it jumps up on you, Tina says, “Just fold your arms and turn your back on it. They don’t like to be ignored. If everyone in contact with the dog does that consistently, the dog won’t jump anymore.”

Tina says she’s never had a dog flunk one of her classes. She learns a dog’s individual personality and then caters the reward to that dog. She explains, “Some are food-oriented, some praise-oriented and others are leadership-oriented.”

www.columbiametro.com

When she works with dogs, she covers the basics: sit down, stay, wait, come, leave it, drop, heel and walking on a loose leash. Most of the issues she sees are with the little dogs, who are pampered within a home to the point that they think they rule the roost.

“Most of my bites are from little spoiled rotten dogs,” she says. “I’ll work with owners to teach them how to be the alpha or pack leader. The small dog has to be demoted so the owner can be in control.”

“

It’s all about emulating dogs’ behaviors. You incorporate how they relate to one another in your training. There’s no screaming or hitting.

”

She says the main behavioral issues that she works out are fear and aggression. For dogs that are fearful because of abuse, she teaches the owners a variety of exercises to help the dogs learn how to trust.

Play Time!

After many years of establishing harmony between owners and their dogs, Tina desired a sanctuary where dogs and their owners could simply enjoy one another. Eleven years ago she was able to lease almost three acres owned by the city at the entrance to Columbia Animal Services on Humane Way off Shop Road. The property

is ideal for her Columbia Dog Park: mostly grassy open areas, a section with overhanging trees for shade and a small wooded area with trails. She installed an in-ground pool that slopes down, and there are about a dozen chairs under the shade trees where owners can visit while their dogs play.

Tina manages the park and visits daily herself. Members of the park must pay a $50 annual fee per family (for insurance) and dogs must be spayed or neutered, up-to-date on shots, nonaggressive and pass an introduction with Tina. No cell phones are allowed, as she wants owners to pay attention to their dogs. The park is open 24/7 and has floodlights for evenings.

“The dogs have a blast,” she says.

“Some are brought here every single day. Owners will run home quickly after work, change, put their dogs in the car and head to the park. It’s a way for the owners to relax and enjoy their dogs, and it’s a way for the dogs to get out the energy they’ve been saving all day.”’

Kaaren Rue says that when her dog, Lucy, was a puppy, she brought her to the dog park almost daily to expend her energy. “I had gone through dog obedience with Tina at Pet Lovers.

Since I had never been to a dog park before, Tina met us there and helped get Lucy acclimated. At first, Lucy was nervous. The other dogs seemed to want to play rough, but in no time she was having fun with the other dogs, tumbling and playing hard.”

Tina says that she enjoys seeing the different personalities, sizes and breeds interacting at the park. Everything from a tiny eight-pound pooch to the oversized Great Danes plays together.

“I’ve seen dogs stand over in the corner for several days and weeks, and then all of a sudden, they decide to get involved. They blossom and begin to socialize with the others and run with them,” she says.

Dogs at the park typically have a “get reacquainted” session when

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 17

they smell one another. Then they’re off running at full speed – racing the length of the field.

The retriever breeds will seek out a ball, and then the chase is on.

After many minutes of full-out running, some of the dogs will cool off in the pool. Interestingly, after about an hour of playing, an unspoken time-out occurs, and all the dogs lay down under a shade tree for a rest. After a short time, they are up and playing again.

“It’s a community of different dog personalities ... the jocks, the

studious observers, the grumps and the goofy,” says Tina.

Ti n a s a y s t h a t i f s h e observes a dog not behaving appropriately with the other dogs or with its master, she will intervene. “I will talk to them, and we’ll work it out.”

“I’m just passionate about dogs,” she says. “Always have been and always will be. Working with them just suits me. I absolutely know it’s my path, and it’s what I’m comfortable with.”

All in the Family

Tina works with Liz Flood’s German shepherd, Charlie, and Laura Beard’s black lab, Riley.

18 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

Tina Heckman’s 9-year-old daughter has been coming to the dog park since she was an infant. She’s a constant dog trainer-in-training, with 11 of her own to practice on. Tina’s husband, Brian, is an artist who not only faux finishes and paints decorative murals in homes but also has a collection of Matisse-style dog paintings at HoFP Gallery on Devine Street.

Contact Tina Heckman at 608-0577 or check out www.tinamarie11.com to learn about her gift for animal communication.

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

www.columbiametro.com

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 19

PALMETTO BUSINESS

Giving a New

Name to

Etiquette Pamela Eyring of The Protocol School of Washington

By Rosanne McDowell Photography by Jeff Amberg

L

ike mother, like daughter.

Pamela Eyring, director and owner of The Protocol School of Washington, says her service-hearted mother had a gift for home hospitality that she passed on to her child. Pamela, in her turn, has segued this inheritance into something bigger: a Columbia-based business that teaches corporate and government leaders the protocol and etiquette skills necessary for success in a global business environment.

Musing on how her mother laid the foundation for her daughter’s prosperity, Pamela recalls, “My father worked for the embassy in England and Canada, and my mother learned to showcase her hospitality hosting dinners and parties and meeting people. I loved how she could make people feel comfortable and wanted in our home. Even when it was just me and my girlfriends, she’d lay out amazing place settings, and I’d say, ‘Mother, are we expecting the Army? Why do you have all the silverware and china and crystal out?’ And she’d say, ‘Pamela, we want to show respect to other people. By putting a beautiful table together, we make them feel special.’ And my girlfriends and I would have a great meal my mother cooked.”

With her mom’s lessons well internalized, Pamela graduated from high school in Dayton, Ohio, after

20 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

which a providential chain of events led her to the field of protocol – an area she hadn’t considered previously. Although busy with both work and college classes, she took the civil service test, nailed a secretarial job at nearby WrightPatterson Air Force Base and hustled her way into her first protocol position. The job came out of a hallway conversation with a co-worker.

Pamela explains, “An acquaintance in the headquarters protocol office at Wright-Patterson told me she had been promoted and suggested I try for her job.

So I asked her what she did. She said, ‘We go shopping, we buy gifts, we plan parties, we play dress-up – it’s great.’ I said, ‘Okay, what is protocol?’ I didn’t know! I applied for her job and got it, but it was much more than just planning parties and

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

buying gifts for people. I worked 80-hour weeks, but it was awesome.”

Of those early days, Pamela says, “It was tough, and I was lucky. Other women were wonderful mentors for me. I watched them work. They were strong women, but they were respected, and they were kind. I think you can be a professional woman and still be kind. Also, I learned from these women that you don’t have to act like a man; you can be a professional woman and a lady at the same time.”

At age 30, Pamela became WrightPatterson’s chief of protocol, the first civilian in the Air Force to hold this position. But there was no training for her, so she learned on the job, through her mentors and “a little scar tissue.” Then came a critical moment in her career, as Pamela well remembers.

“When I became chief of protocol, a friend who worked at a base in Florida had just returned from The Protocol School of Washington (PSOW). She told me, ‘Oh, Pamela, you have to go! It’s a school that trains you on the formalities of international protocol and business etiquette, and they also teach you to train others.’ I had 15 people who worked for me, and I’m thinking, I gotta go. So I went. I tell you, you just don’t know what you don’t know. I wasn’t applying certain expected formalities in the international world because I didn’t know the rules.

Learning them from Dorothea Johnson, the school’s founder, was extraordinary.”

Back at the office, Pamela taught her team what she’d learned: how to make a formal introduction; how to seat all the guests properly, not just the guest of honor; how to set the table according to international multi-course expectations.

Her staff members, excited about what Pamela had passed on to them, enjoyed the increase in confidence it gave them in knowing they were doing things the right way, and their positive reception gave Pamela the confidence to take her fresh knowledge beyond her own office.

As Pamela began branching out, she’d send Dorothea the great feedback she was getting from the courses she was certified to teach at that time, Dine Like a Diplomat and Outclass the Competition.

Responding with congratulations and encouragement, Dorothea soon asked

www.columbiametro.com

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 21

Pamela to conduct training at PSOW, so for two years Pamela would take leave time, fly to Washington to teach and return to Wright-Patterson. One day, Dorothea called Pamela with an unexpected agenda. Dorothea wanted to discuss her decision to retire and sell the renowned Protocol School of Washington. Pamela found herself asking if she might purchase it. Convinced that Pamela would manage the school well and mentor its students as caringly as she had, Dorothea agreed.

Pamela recalls, “I’d worked for the government for 23 years when I went home and told my husband, ‘Honey, I’d like to leave the federal government and purchase The Protocol School of Washington.’ His response was, ‘What?’ But we talked. I’d been the director of protocol, I’d planned amazing events and heads-of-state and celebrity visits, I’d helped people grow. But the training was what I loved to do; I loved being with people to share my knowledge and help them be better professionals. My husband knew this was my passion, and he believed in me. Being a partner with a large construction/realty group, he knew contracts, due diligence and business plans and taught me how to go about purchasing the school. I had to become a businesswoman. It took us nine months to do it all.”

So, four years ago, Pamela purchased PSOW. Three years ago, in another major life transition, her family moved to South Carolina, and Pamela set up the school’s headquarters in Columbia while maintaining an office in Washington. Ready to fly wherever a training session takes them, Pamela and her team conduct classes around the globe – which over the school’s 21-year history has meant locations in 45 countries. Aside from her duties at the school, Pamela writes a monthly advice column called “Biz Etiquette” for Washington Business Journal and has been interviewed by multiple radio and international television stations and national publications such as The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times.

Where to from here? Currently, Pamela has three goals simmering. First, she wants the school to earn accreditation with the Department of Education. “We’d be the first and only accredited protocol and etiquette school in the nation,” she says. “If you want to be the Harvard of protocol, you have to be accredited.” She’s also been working on expanding the school into yet more foreign locales, notably Dubai, where the school will inaugurate its first course this December.

But, Pamela enthuses, her favorite goal has been the school’s e-learning division, newly rolled out on the Internet.

“We call it Outclass With eClass,” she says. “We turned our paper-based, instructor-led courses into what I call ready-towear.”

Whether taking classes online or in person, Pamela’s students learn the difference between protocol and etiquette.

“Protocol is the science,” she explains. “It’s the rules society applies to situations. Etiquette is the art – how we take those rules and make people feel comfortable about them. I met Mayor Bob Coble recently, but did I call him ‘Mayor Bob?’ No, it was my first meeting with him. The rule is to address him by his title. ‘Good afternoon, Mr. Mayor; I’m Pamela

22 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

Eyring’ would be the rule; how I say that, in extending my hand with eye contact and a smile, is the etiquette side of it.”

Pamela smilingly adds that people are scared of the words manners and etiquette. “When I’m teaching a group of executives for etiquette training, they have a perception of this old woman with teacups and a ruler for whacking the fingers of offenders. That’s so changed today in the training. It’s fun! I like to call PSOW methodology ‘edutainment’ – education in a fun, humorous, active way, versus the old-school way of just lecturing. That’s been a real plus for us, and that’s why I get invited to come back.”

In their universal usefulness to society, protocol and etiquette offer people a framework of recognized customs for civilly discussing issues that matter. Like twin diplomats, protocol and etiquette open doors for those who master their principles and practices. Pamela Eyring and her team at the Protocol School of Washington lead their students to that mastery.

Top 10 Biz Etiquette Tips From The Protocol School of Washington ❶ First Things First: Dress A University of California study found clothes account for 55 percent of one’s first impression. Make sure you have an updated look and wear a little makeup (employers consider “some makeup” professional). Keep outfits neutral (black, grey, navy, taupe). Pull hair back if it’s long and hide the grey. Keep jewelry simple (pearls – small and skinny for traditional, big and chunky for a trendy look). Nails: short with clean, light polish. Shoes: closed toe. Men are judged by their shoes, so keep them shined. Women should own a threepiece suit (jacket, slacks, skirt) and two blouses. Men should own a suit and one or two jackets plus two tailored shirts.

❷ Make Contact Make eye contact 40 to 60 percent of the time, looking between the person’s eyes. The lower you gaze downward, the more you convey a personal, not a professional, relationship. Shake hands in a firm web-to-web manner. Avoid the “limp fish” handshake (conveys weakness),

www.columbiametro.com

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 23

“politician’s gloved” handshake (too personal) and queen’s handshake (offering just your fingertips – which connotes superiority – rather than your palm).

❸ Cultures Vary; Do Your Homework Do you bow, kiss or shake hands with a business contact from another culture?

Chinese bow from the shoulders, Japanese from the waist; confuse them and you

won’t get the job.

❻ Nailing eEtiquette

❹ Remembering Names

Don’t text or take a cell call in an interview, no matter how important. Keep PDAs on vibrate. E-mails are traditional memos gone digital; don’t use anger.

E-mail lives forever in cyberspace, and anger’s bad for business regardless. Avoid humor; it doesn’t translate well online. Use spell check. Avoid the rude and annoying “loud cell voice.”

Can’t remember names? Here’s a trick that’ll help. Repeat the person’s name three times: when meeting, once in conversation and when saying goodbye.

❺ Avoid Hot Topics Don’t discuss religion, money, sex and politics, even in casual settings – you never know if you’ll hit a nerve.

❼ Dining Skills + Personality Testing Twitter rocks, but business still gets done at the dining table. Employers often take candidates to lunch to test dining and personality skills. Do arrive five minutes early. Don’t order the most expensive dish.

Don’t order a cocktail. Don’t order messy foods like spaghetti. Don’t eat like a piglet.

Do butter and eat bread one small piece at a time, work utensils from the outside in, know your bread plate is on your left and if in doubt, follow the host’s lead.

❽ Follow-up is Everything Within 48 hours of a job interview, send a handwritten note and hand address the envelope to stand out in a digital world. (1) Thank the person for his or her time. (2) Reiterate your qualifications. (3) Restate a positive point about the company mentioned in the interview. If you don’t hear back when expected, call for an update, but call only once. If you don’t get the job, be polite and thank the person again for his or her time and interest.

❾ No Biz Card Opportunity ­– No Sweat

Social business cards are THE new business networking tool. These basic cards, with just a name and phone number or e-mail, are ideal for social events when business cards are inappropriate.

❾ The Secondary Option The Kaufman Foundation’s justreleased study found that “half the companies on the 2009 Fortune 500 list were launched during a recession or bear market.” Consider consultancy (the fastestgrowing industry) and start your own business.

24 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

www.columbiametro.com

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 25

26 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

www.columbiametro.com

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 27

SPREAD THE WORD

Earl Ellis

John Lay

Reg Belcher

Lanny Lambert

Steve Spencer

Jim Apple

Tom Burch

Ryan Welch

Cal Watson

Grady Beard

Charles Baker

Jay Bender

Catharine Griffin

Cravens Ravenel

Carl Solomon

Steven Mungo

Attor neys from H a y n s w o r t h Sinkler Boyd are involved in the following: A. Parker Barnes has been named to the American Red Cross of Central Carolina Creative Grants Think Tank committee.

Suzanne Hulst Clawson has been named co-chair of the Bishop Search Committee for the Episcopal Diocese of Upper South Carolina. Clarke W. DuBose has been named to the Medmarc Honor Roll. Edward G. Kluiters has been named to the SC Economic Developers’ Association Board of Directors and is co-chair of the Legislative Committee. Steve A. Matthews has been elected to the board of the SC Governor’s School for Science and Mathematics Foundation.

Stephen F. McKinney has been invited to become a Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America. Gary W. Morris has been named treasurer of the Committee of 100. Dalhi N. Myers has been named co-chair of the Organizing Committee for the 49th Annual Congress of the International Association of Young Lawyers. Benton D. Williamson has been elected to chair the board of trustees of Still Hopes Retirement Community. John.

P. Boyd has been named to serve on the Wind Energy Production Farms Feasibility Study Committee and to the executive committee of the SC Biomass Council. Mary M. Caskey has been elected to serve on the Columbia City Ballet Board of Directors. Tigerron A. Wells has been elected to the Columbia Development Corporation Board. Sarah Spruill has spoken at the Municipal Association of South Carolina’s annual conference. John K. Van Duys has chaired the Private Activity Bond panel at the Annual Tax and Securities Law Institute held by the National Association of Bond

28 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

Lawyers. Kathleen Goodpasture Smith has served on a panel at the SC Chapter of the 2009 Healthcare Financial Management Association Annual Institute.

Virginia J. Bayless, Thomas E. Carter, Jennifer Carter, Stephen Cowart, Scott K. Davis, Vincent DiMaria, Howard H. Hartley, Jr., Suzanne Haygood, Kay P. Johnston, Richard Jones, Brenda D. Morganelli, Sandra H. Peake, Larry R. Slice, Mary B. Sorrell and Jean B. Thompson have been inducted in the Silver Service Club of the Central Carolina REALTORS® Association. The association’s members have built a Habitat for Humanity home coinciding with its annual state conference in September.

T h e C o l u m b i a C o n f e re n c e Center has been selected as a ConventionSouth magazine Reader’s Choice Award winner as one of the top 100 meeting facilities in the nation.

F. Earl Ellis and John T. Lay, Jr. of Ellis, Lawhorne & Sims have been selected to the Litigation Counsel of America.

Love Collins, III, Eric M. Elkins, David. G. Hodges, Jackie S. Howie, Barbara Rackes, Martha Scott Smith, Nancy Spencer and Susie H. VanHuss have been elected to the Board of Trustees of Central Carolina Community Foundation. D. Michael Kelly has been elected chair, J. Hagood Tighe has been elected vice chair and Judith M. Davis has been elected secretary/treasurer.

Cynthia Williams has joined Health Sciences South Carolina as project manager for the electronic Institutional Review Board.

Palmetto Health has received a Palmetto Pillar Award for New Initiatives Involving Technology for its innovation in the neonatal intensive care unit at Palmetto Health Baptist.

Harrelson, Kellett & Lockhart has announced the association and merger with Nancy H. Boozer, CPA and Foy N. Chalk, CPA. Reginald W. Belcher of Turner Padget Graham and Laney has been named board chair of the American Red Cross, South Carolina Blood Services Division. Lanneau W. Lambert, Jr., has been named to the Columbia Chamber of Commerce Good to Great Foundation Board.

The firm has been recognized in the 2010 edition of Benchmark: A Definitive Guide to America’s Leading Litigation Firms and Attorneys as a recommended litigation firm in South Carolina. The publication has named W. Duvall Spruill as a Litigation Star and Nicholas W. Gladd and D. Andrew Williams as Future Stars.

Steve Spencer has joined First Community Bank as assistant vice president and retail banker.

Chris Halkowitz of Scott McElveen has been approved by the SC Board of Accountancy to practice as a Certified Public Accountant.

Amanda Bartlett has joined Lake Carolina Properties as marketing coordinator. Catrina Plyler has

been named office manager at the sales and information center. Donna Stevens has joined the team as a neighborhood sales professional in the Essex Homes neighborhood.

Jim B. Apple of First Citizens B a n k has been named 2009 Ambassador of the Year by the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce.

Tom Burch has joined NAI Avant as a senior broker. Ryan Welch has joined the firm as a property manager.

Cal Watson and Grady Beard of Sowell Gray Stepp and Lafitte have been certified as Circuit Court Mediators by the SC Board of Arbitrator and Mediator Certification.

Charles E. Baker, Jay Bender, Catharine G. Griffin and D. Cravens Ravenel have been selected for inclusion in Best Lawyers in America 2010.

Carl L. Solomon of Gergel, Nickles and Solomon has been elected treasurer of the SC Bar Association Board of Governors. He also has been selected for inclusion in Best Lawyers in America 2010.

Steven Mungo, CEO of The Mungo Companies, has been elected to serve as president of the Home Builders Association of South Carolina.

Charles E. Carpenter, Jr., of Carpenter Appeals and Trial Support has been selected for inclusion in Best Lawyers in America 2010.

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

www.columbiametro.com

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 29

GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS WITH

Agapé Senior The Nine Conversations You Need to Have with Senior Adults

T

he vision of Agapé Senior is to serve the people of South Carolina as an integrated health services company. Agapé Senior is recognized as a senior services provider of distinction that values its employees and functions in a financially responsible and stable environment. The vision is based on a model of integrated services that is designed to assure responsiveness and quality of service for residents and their families.

There are nine conversations that you should have with your parents or senior adults for whom you will be responsible. The sooner you begin these conversations with your senior loved ones, the better.

1. Driving. Introduce and periodically revisit the difficult conversation regarding what will happen when their driving becomes unsafe.

2. Housing. When it is no longer safe for your parent(s) to live at home alone, what housing options are available/preferable?

3. Financial. Someone in addition to your parents should be familiar with their financial situation.

4. Health Insurance. You should be familiar with your parents’ health insurance and what it covers.

5. Medication. You should be knowledgeable of any and all medication that your parent takes.

6. Physicians. Talk about all of the physicians.

Most seniors have several “ologists”. Make sure your parents are seeing physicians who have experience working with the senior population.

7. Personal Emergency Device. No one living alone after the age of 65 should be without a wrist or necklace pendent emergency call system. You should be familiar with the working and testing of the equipment.

Scott Middleton, CEO Agapé Senior

8. Dietary Issues. Talk to your parent about what they had for lunch and supper. Check the refrigerator whenever you get a chance. Have a clean out each week, casually making a list of things to replace and throwing away food that could cause them harm.

9. What Happens When “It” Happens In Your Family? The night will come. You will get a call from your parent, sibling or friend of the family.

Your mother or father has fallen and is being transported to the hospital. Think! What should I do?

30 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS WITH

Oody Construction

Harley Oody

H

arley Oody worked for 25 years in steel construction before starting his own business in 1984 remodeling single-family dwellings.

He later branched out into bidding on various local and state government apartment renovations. In 1992, Harley incorporated his remodeling business into Oody Construction, Inc., and expanded into new housing construction.

The Columbia and Lexington areas

www.columbiametro.com

have much to offer, including easy access to Lake Murray and quality venues such as Riverbanks Zoo. Currently, Oody Construction has three homes for sale in the $400k+ range in the Willmont and Summer Lake subdivisions in Lexington.

These homes feature open floor plans with heavy molding, trey ceilings and walk-in closets with multiple built-ins.

Harley likes to work with his customers to find ways to transform their remodeling

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

ideas into designs that preserve and enhance the value of their homes. Harley’s new home construction projects maximize interior space, incorporating steel beams to allow open design in the garage and living areas and limit the use of unsightly wood beams and posts.

Harley most enjoys working with the homeowners so that their new home designs are not only functional but uniquely their own.

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 31

GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS WITH

Dems Fine Jewelers

D

ems Fine Jewelers is celebrating its 40th year in business! Dems is owned by Deborah Lucas and Steve Livingston, who are third generation family jewelers. Many of Dems’ customers remember the original store at Boozer Shopping Center and shopping with their late father, BJ Livingston.

BJ purchased the small store from Reinhart Dems, who immigrated from Poland with his wife and son after surviving a concentration camp during WWII. BJ kept the name to honor him.

Today Dems is located in a beautiful freestanding building at 1068 Lake Murray Blvd. in Irmo, S.C., and continues to be locally-owned and family-operated.

Dems’s extended family is its staff, who have collectively been with Dems for more than 100 years! No, they’re not

32 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

ancient; most have just been working at Dems since high school. Mrs. Livingston, the company’s treasured matriarch, is 89 years young and still comes to the store nearly every day to do the pearl stringing and chat with customers.

Customers are always greeted by the friendly dedicated Dems Gems staff, who look after their needs, whether it’s a simple watch battery or the exciting selection of a perfect engagement ring.

During the holidays, customers can enjoy a hot cup of cider and cookies while shopping the festively decorated store.

Selections are gift wrapped and topped with beautiful handmade bows.

Dems Fine Jewelers searches for unique and beautiful finely made jewelry, with one of a kind pieces and designer collections such as Hearts on Fire, Tacori, Spark, Novell, Lorenzo, Swarovski, Hot

Diamonds, Tag Heuer and Tissot. Choose from many services offered including gold buying, appraisals, pearl stringing, custom jewelry design and repair, watch repair, watch batteries installed, new watch bands, engraving, ear piercing and free jewelry cleaning and inspection.

You’ll also find the largest selection of beads in South Carolina at Dems. Let the Dems Gems help you design a Chamilia or Trollbeads bracelet or necklace and see more fabulous new bead jewelry ideas.

Ask about the famous bead trunk shows.

Dems continues to passionately serve its customers and contribute to the community. Most recently they have raised money for the Palmetto Health Foundation to help local breast cancer patients. Dems invites everyone to Buy a Bead … Build a Bracelet, Together We Can Make a Difference!

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS WITH

Carolina Couture

F

or Cynthia Stukes, it was a love for sewing and design that blossomed into a passion for couture. A personal wardrobe stylist since 1990, Cynthia’s clients included women with schedules too busy for wardrobe planning, such as politicians, businesswomen and movers and shakers within the community.

With this experience, she and her husband Robert expanded their business into retail, adding flair and pizzazz to the closets of everyday women. Their years of success and a passion for couture, combined with the commitment to bring upscale fashion home to South Carolina, evolved

www.columbiametro.com

into Carolina Couture — Columbia’s premier designer boutique and bridal salon.

Its revolving chandeliers and grand interiors transport you into a whole new world defined by style and elegance. The boutique’s retail section is a virtual treasure trove with caches of gorgeous designs of every hue and texture for day or evening.

The perfect ensemble is easily achieved with Carolina Couture’s selection of shoes, handbags and accessories from various designer brands.

Cynthia admits that if she had the opportunity to dress a famous person, it would be First Lady Michelle Obama — she

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Robert and Cynthia Stukes

epitomizes the caliber of woman who appreciates what Carolina Couture has to offer — classic style with contemporary undertones to appeal to both the young and the young at heart.

The boutique’s bridal section is a virtual one-stop shop, with gowns from Pronovias, Allure, Mary’s, Moonlight and Forever Yours, as well as a whole selection of bridesmaids’ and formal dresses. Carolina Couture also offers designer names in wedding accessories from invitations and ceremony accompaniments to shoes and jewelry.

Truly, Carolina Couture is every fashionista’s dream come true!

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 33

ADVERTISER SPOTLIGHT

Ask the Pros Q. What is the most overlooked energy-saving product in HVAC? A. The ductwork system is the most often overlooked, due to the fact that our industry and government place more of an emphasis on high efficiency equipment. During the mid- to late-90s, 2nd Wind performed many air flow tests that revealed duct leakage as high as 44 percent due to the ductwork being second and third generation systems. The ductwork was not properly insulated, sealed or designed for newer, higher efficiency equipment. Now 2nd Wind is providing a ductwork that is safer and more efficient. Green Safety Duct is constructed of a stronger, more durable and waterproof outer liner with R-8 insulation that has been scientifically proven to be free of the dangerous carcinogen formaldehyde.

The inner liner has been treated with an antimicrobial material to reduce the growth of microbes, mildew and particles. I believe that having a properly installed ductwork system can help greatly reduce the HVAC portion of your energy bill. Neal Causey, 2nd Wind Heating and Air

Q. How do I know if my parents are safe to be at home alone?

A. When and if the time comes to evaluate your senior loved one’s ability to continue living at home, both mental and physical aspects should be considered.

Neighbors may be able to tell you if

34 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

your loved one is having difficulty entering or leaving the home, has begun wandering away from home, or has been allowing strangers to enter the home.

Keep an eye out for weight changes or other signs of poor eating habits. A quick peek in the refrigerator, the kitchen trash can and/or kitchen sink can give you important clues.

Judging your loved one’s ability to respond quickly and properly to an emergency can be difficult. For instance, your loved one may be able to recognize and respond to emergency signals such as smoke alarms or sirens when awake. He or she may, however, remove a hearing aid at bedtime and be at a higher risk when sleeping. Scott Middleton, Agapé Senior

Q. If

a timing belt service is listed in my car’s maintenance schedule, should I do it?

A. This is a very important service that is scheduled at 60k, 90k, 105k and/or 120k miles for most vehicles that are equipped with timing belts. A timing belt service can include some or all of these items: replacement of timing belt, water pump, oil seals, accessory belts, balance shaft belt and antifreeze. The timing belt is not visible enough to inspect, so the replacement is based on mileage. If the timing belt slips or breaks, it can cause very serious damage to the engine requiring a very expensive repair to the head and/or valve train, which is an internal portion of the engine. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, the cost can run anywhere from $500 to $1200.

Remember that the recommended service for timing belt replacement varies from

Midlands businesses answer their customers’ questions

vehicle to vehicle, and you should check your owner’s manual for the appropriate mileage. Matt Riley, Andrews Auto

Q. How much more difficult and expensive are rounded drywall corners compared to traditional square corners?

A. The installation of rounded drywall corners, in and of itself, is a relatively simple process. The drywall is roughhung, but instead of using the traditional square metal corner bead at the corners, we use a rounded corner bead made of either metal or plastic. The drywall mud is floated out and finished the same as with traditional square corners.

As far as the difference in cost, the rounded corner bead runs slightly higher than traditional corner bead, but the major difference in cost comes into play with the application of trim and paint. These two trades charge more because additional cuts are required in the trim, and transitioning different paint colors in the center of the rounded corner is time consuming and labor intensive. Still, the overall additional cost is nominal as part of the entire construction budget. Done properly by experienced trades, the aesthetically pleasing result is worth the extra cost, which is why this has been a standard feature in the homes that we build. Steve Baudo, Baudo & Associates Home Builders

Q. When should I put my house on the market for sale?

A. Remember that all real estate is local!

National media outlets don’t tell the story

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

of your local market. Call a Realtor® who is familiar with your area and has experience.

Th e r e a r e many factors to consider. For some sellers, the need is immediate because of a job change or family considerations. Others can be more deliberate and have a more planned sequence of events. Generally speaking, though, if you live in a neighborhood of 100 homes and 15 are currently on the market, then you might want to wait until there is less competition. On the other hand, if you live in a neighborhood of a 100 homes, and two are on the market, then now may be a great time to list your home for sale. A Realtor® can help you determine current market conditions and trends and give you advice. With a good plan in place and proper pricing, a house can go on the market at any time. Laine Ligon and Andy Walker, Bollin Ligon Realtors®

Q.

Why should I consider dental implants to replace my missing tooth or teeth?

A. While every case is unique, a dental implant is a proven treatment option for those who have lost one or more teeth.

Benefits of a dental implant include: • natural looking results – implants are virtually indistinguishable from other teeth; • restores confidence and delivers a healthy smile; • helps to preserve bone that is naturally lost or reabsorbed after the loss of a tooth; • improves function such as chewing and biting that may have been compromised; • allows one or more teeth to be replaced without affecting adjacent teeth; • supports a bridge and eliminates the need for a removable partial denture; • p r o v i d e s s u p p o r t f o r a d e n t u r e, making it more secure and comfortable; • strong, durable solution – overall reported

www.columbiametro.com

success rate of 90 to 95 percent.

The patient must first be examined by a dental professional skilled in prosthetic replacement to make an assessment, including a review of the jaw bone. Dr. Robert Holland. Carolina Restorative and Implant Dentistry

trends change faster than furniture trends, so updating your lamps can really give your room a whole new look. And don’t forget floor lamps or sconces; they can be especially fabulous beside that fireplace focal point.

Happy decorating! Sazy Johnson and Ann Ligon, Cottage & Vine

Q. I’d like to open up a room in my

Q. What are the best ways we can prepare our young people today to be competitive in the field of science in the future?

home by removing a wall, but I think it may be a load-bearing wall. Is there anything that can be done?

A. In most cases a beam can be installed in the area where the wall is removed to support the load. Depending on what is above the beam, it can be hidden or exposed.

A hidden beam would be recessed into the ceiling or attic space, and the ceiling framing members that were previously resting on the wall would be attached to the beam. This is a common part of our renovations. However, due to the danger of ceiling collapse, it is not a do-it-yourself job. Byron Lawson, Columbia Home Services

Q. What do you consider to be the two most important elements in creating a room?

A. There are so many things that make a room beautiful, but a focal point brings it all t o g e t h e r. A fireplace with an oil painting and a pair of sconces hanging above, a special piece of furniture like a secretary or chest, or some sort of grouping of furniture can work to take center stage in your room.

Equally important to having a focal point is lighting. Turn off those overhead lights and illuminate your corners with lamps! A lamp can be a lovely object on a table and bring a beautiful glow to the space. Lamp

A.

Although a thorough understanding of scientific processes and relationships is key for success in scientific fields, these experiences should develop a love for science as well. We should reinforce the idea that everywhere our young people look is a science laboratory. From the kitchen to the back yard, a science experience presents itself for exploration and development of curiosity. From the experiences, young people learn to observe, question and formulate ideas and explanations about their world. They learn to know that science is not a static list of facts but a dynamic changing entity that directs each and every aspect of life. As we do at Heathwood Hall, we must give ample opportunities to develop analytical thinking and apply mathematical logic, “doing science” as opposed to memorizing it. Learning environments that promote critical thinking and dispel a fear of the complexity of science will form the foundation for productive scientists in the future. Sondra Wieland, Heathwood Hall Episcopal School

Q. Is

there an alternative to using chlorine in my pool?

A. There are some alternatives to using chlorine as a sanitizer, such as bromine or ionization systems, but none have proven to be as cost effective or reliable as chlorine

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 35

tablets or chlorine generators (better known as salt systems). One thing that I like and that my customers have bought and also really like is the Nature 2 System made

by Zodiac. The Nature 2 System works in conjunction with chlorine and allows you to keep a lower chlorine level without developing problems with your water clarity and sanitizing abilities. Jack Oliver, Jack Oliver Pools, Spas and Patio

Q. What are the latest trends in home interiors – the hottest colors, the current fabrics, the newest wallpapers?

A. I am glad to share what I have seen at market in Atlanta or what the trade magazines are touting as all the rage. However, home décor is much like fashion.

While a pencil skirt looks fabulous on just the right body, it doesn’t flatter every figure.

Similarly, while splashes of aqua may be perfect in one space, it may not be the best choice in another. It is imperative that you use color, texture and pattern in the proper way to achieve a desirable result. Don’t be afraid to mix and match; just make sure you use the proper color intensity and scale. If you’re not sure what works together, it is worth the money to hire someone to point you in the right direction. An hour or two with a decorator or designer can help you come up with fresh and inspiring ideas. A well-orchestrated plan can save you time, aggravation and money in the long run.

Mandy Summers, M.Gallery Interiors

Q. What

are the medical benefits of massage therapy?

A. Scientific research has revealed many medical benefits to receiving massage therapy on a regular basis, such as decreased stress, improved immune

36 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

function and circulation, lowered blood pressure, improved posture, increased flexibility and range of motion and management of chronic pain. Recent research also links consistent therapeutic massage treatments with reduced recovery time and management of specific medical conditions like depression and anxiety, arthritis, tension headaches and migraines, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, TMJ dysfunction and other musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders.

The rapidly increasing knowledge about the many medical benefits may play a role in why more Americans than ever are turning to professional massage therapy, making massage part of their wellness plan. Both Columbia Massage Envy clinics have free information on the medical benefits of massage therapy, as well as a library of research references available. Alicia Muncatchy, LMT, Massage Envy

Q.

I recently learned that I have diabetes. If I only take oral medicine for diabetes and my hemoglobin A1c has been normal for the last three months, how often should I check my blood sugar?

A. Since you do not take injectables such as insulin or byetta, you really do not need frequent blood sugar checks, as long as you only take oral medicines for diabetes, your hemoglobin A1c has been normal for the last three months and you are feeling well.

In this scenario, it would make sense to check your blood sugar only if you’re feeling ill at ease and experiencing symptoms such as sweating, nausea, headaches, faintness, excessive urination or excessive hunger. If you feel okay and have no symptoms, you would not benefit from twice-daily finger stick blood sugar checks. Dr. Nehal Desai, M.D., Peterson & Plante Internal Medicine Associates

Q. What are some key things to consider when choosing an apartment home?

A. The advertised price is not always the total value. For each apartment or community you consider, research things like: Location– Check out the community’s

www.columbiametro.com

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 37

proximity to your places of interest. It’s always an added bonus to be near major interstates for easy travel and minimal traffic.

Objectives – Know what you want the community and apartment to offer and measure how well it meets your needs and desires.

Value – Take time to study the community and apartment to understand all that is included in the price. Often you’ll find added features can save money, increasing overall value and convenience.

Environment – How are the grounds maintained? How well has the apartment been maintained? Is the staff professional and friendly? How did you feel visiting the community? These answers can indicate how you will be taken care of if you were a resident.

Make sure you are in LOVE. Although apartment rentals may not be long-term, lifetime purchases, it is important that you are happy with the place you call home. Kimberly Smith, Polo Village Apartment Homes

Q. What is the difference between factory-built cabinets and site- or shop-built cabinets?

A . Factory-built cabinets are finished in a controlled environment, where the temperature, humidity and dust are strictly controlled for a superior finish.

When building a cabinet on site, the finish is more difficult to achieve. Some cabinet shops have a controlled environment to do their finish work, and some send it out to be done.

The construction of the cabinet box can vary from factory to factory. They could be plywood sides, all plywood box or a combination of particle board. Side wall and floor base thickness can also vary.

Typically, site-built cabinets are 3/4 inch plywood sides and floor base. Some use solid wood face frames, while others use

38 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

3/4 inch plywood for the face. Factories generally use solid wood face frames.

You can get a good constructed cabinet built on site with a good finish, but the factory can usually get you the best finish with a written warranty. Sometimes factories are limited to how much they can modify the cabinet and the overall layout, but a good designer and skilled craftsman can create a custom kitchen from a semi-custom line of cabinets. Tony Thompson, Remodeling Services

Q. The handrails on my stairway are loose and shaky. What are my options to get them fixed?

A. Normally, if a handrail is not sturdy, the problem is loose newel posts. Do-ityourself hardware kits are available that are designed to attach to the bottom of a 3-inch square newel post. The kits don’t necessarily make the handrail feel tighter but they will bring it up to code in terms of required strength, making it safer. This is a generic fix and does not work in all situations, especially under volutes, as those newels are often round.

Most of the time, in order to have a sturdy handrail that is aesthetically pleasing and smooth under hand, the newel post will need to be replaced. Depending on how the original carpenter fastened the handrail together, the handrail may also need to be replaced. Usually it is not able to be salvaged because most of the stairway work in Columbia was put together with gun nails, instead of rail bolts and screws, which is probably the reason why the handrail is loose now. Richard Mincey, Stairways by Richard Mincey

Q.

I painted my great room a vibrant pool blue. I loved it as a paint swatch, but on all four walls, the color is overwhelming. I don’t want to repaint the room. What can I do?

A. You should always sample your paint colors on site. While vibrant colors do make you happy, you have to balance strong colors with neutrals.

A sofa in wheat or chocolate brown would look great. Pool blue, brown leopard and paprika colored accent pillows will add pizzazz, while ceiling to floor wheat-colored drapes will ground your room and complete your look. Joan Goodwin, Verandah Interiors

www.columbiametro.com

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 39

FEATURE

COLUMBIA’S

GREATEST GENERATION

WORLD WAR II HEROES TELL THEIR STORIES

I

By Sam Morton / Photography by Jeff Amberg

n two poignant books, former network anchor Tom Brokaw calls the men and women who served during World War II the “greatest generation.” Meet a few of them, and it’s easy to see why the distinction is appropriate.

Currently, the United States military is in harm’s way in two Middle Eastern countries. But times are different now. American soldiers are fond of saying, “America isn’t at war. America is at the mall.” Even though terrorists brought war to U.S. soil on 9/11, Americans outside the military still have no overriding societal expectation of sacrifice. That was not true of the greatest generation. They used words, and still do, like duty, honor and obligation, and then translated these words into action.

In these pages, you will meet men and women who decided to forgo parts of their education at storied institutions like Harvard and Princeton because they placed the needs of their country, their community and their fellow Americans above their own. If the U.S. Civil War defined who we were as a nation, then World War II cemented our place in the world as these selfless men and women fought and ultimately crushed one of the most evil regimes humankind had known. And they did it willingly.

Here is what they did – and why they did it – in their own words.

WILLIAM KEENAN, UNITED STATES ARMY

I was in ROTC at Princeton and a sophomore when Pearl Harbor happened. I finished college on an accelerated program. We didn’t get a Christmas, summer or Easter vacation. I didn’t get home for a year and a half. The day after graduation, I was sent to Officer Candidate School at

40 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

William Keenan

Fort Sill. I graduated as a 2nd lieutenant.

I was assigned to artillery with the heaviest field artillery guns we had – the 240 millimeter Howitzer. It fired a 360pound projectile, and under ideal conditions it could hit a target 20 miles away.

I went to the Pacific. There were only two battalions with those same guns in the Pacific theater, stationed on the Big Island in Hawaii, and each battalion had six guns. We loaded up, and it took 34 days to get to Guam. We never landed, instead staying aboard ship. There was no need for us. It was the best duty a field artillery officer could ask for – sleeping on clean white sheets about the ship and eating hot meals on white linen tablecloths.

Next we went to Leyte in the Philippines, went ashore and were bivouacked at Tacloban. We never fired a shot in anger. As the war was winding down, one of our guns was sent to le Shima adjacent to Okinawa. Ernie Pyle was there.

He came to see the gun because it was such a rarity in the Pacific Theater. That’s where he was killed, about a hundred yards from that gun.

I was in Leyte when the H-bombs dropped on Nagasaki and Hiroshima. I had the feeling that the war was winding down. A buddy and I had a friend in the 77th Division who arranged a transfer for us because they were going to Japan, and we both had training as beach masters to assist in combat landings.

We got our transfer, but we didn’t go with the division. We were flown to Tokyo and supposed to get to the northern island of Hokkaido any way we could to make arrangements. But after the bombs were dropped and McArthur signed the treaty, the Japanese people were fleeing the cities, and all the trains were

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

packed full. It took us two days to get to the northern port of Honshu, and then we had to wait on a ferry between the islands. By the time we got to Hokkaido, the field artillery of the 77th Division had made an uneventful landing without us.

After that, my buddy and I got desk jobs in the general’s office. The 77th was dispersing – sending everyone home.

I figured I’d never get to Japan again. Just about then a call went out for architects to inspect buildings as living quarters for field grade officers coming to Japan as occupation troops. I

I’M PROUD OF WHAT I DID, AND I WOULD TRADE NOTHING FOR THAT EXPERIENCE. I CERTAINLY HAVE NO REGRETS. William Keenan had graduated college in architecture, but I had never practiced architecture and wasn’t a registered architect, so naturally the Army gave me the job!

I stayed in Japan until July 1946 and then was discharged at Fort Bragg. I was glad to get home. I’m proud of what I did, and I would trade nothing for that experience.

It was interesting and exciting and wonderful at my age – a 23-year-old captain with considerable responsibilities. I certainly have no regrets.

GENE KESSLER, UNITED STATES ARMY

William Keenan

www.columbiametro.com

I was in the ROTC unit at Harvard College when the war broke out. I decided to enter an accelerated program because I could graduate in three years. I did that and was graduated summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa.

In order to get into advanced ROTC, you had to join the enlisted reserve. Harvard wanted to show everybody how patriotic it was, so we all had to attend graduation in our uniforms.

Within the week, I was called to duty at my enlisted rank of corporal. I spent a month and a half in the woods in an MP battalion and then got sent to OCS for 16 weeks. I got my 2nd lieutenant’s commission in November.

Now it was true of the classes of 1943 and 1944 that we had artillery ROTC training, as well as OCS. After OCS, I was sent to the Field Artillery Replacement Training Center at Fort Bragg. I was assigned to a 155 millimeter Howitzer battalion. I saw some interesting assignments in the

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 41

AS THE WAR WAS CLOSING DOWN, THE FIFTH ARMY TURNED EAST, BUT THEY FAILED TO TELL OUR BATTALION. WE KEPT HEADING NORTH. FORTUNATELY THEY CAUGHT UP WITH US BEFORE WE INVADED SWITZERLAND! Gene Kessler

U.S. infantry lieutenant riding a white swayback horse across the ridgeline. When the Germans would fire at him, he’d yell over and tell his troops where to fire back. And down in the valley in the middle of all this, an Italian farmer was plowing!

I also remember that we decimated a German column retreating to Bologna, and I’ll never forget that sick, sweet smell of death when I rode down that road the next day.

On one mission, I flew as an aerial observer. My first time up, we flew out over the Adriatic behind German lines. I kept seeing these little black puffs. It took a little while to realize they were shooting at us.

I wasn’t scared – didn’t really think about it, I guess – because I was continually looking for targets for my men to shoot at.

In another battle, a Messerschmitt came over. It turned around and started firing its machine gun at us. I dove into a foxhole. When he was gone, I got Gene Kessler out and collected some of the rounds he fired at us – solid slugs meant for anti-tank use. states at Fort Sill, Okla., and Fort Hood, Texas. Then we As the war was closing down, the Fifth Army were deployed to Italy. turned east, but they failed to tell our battalion. We kept Interestingly enough, we went over on the first troop ship heading north. Fortunately they caught up with us before constructed in the South. It was so funny … that first day I we invaded Switzerland. We were sent home early since we’d saw a bunch of sailors going around to the electrical junction gotten into the war late. We were sent to Fort Jackson to rehab boxes and just cussing. They had to chisel some open. The our equipment and prepare to go to Japan. I met my wife ones that were supposed to be open were welded shut, and while stationed in Fort Jackson. Her name was Mary Clarkson those that were supposed to be closed were open.

Boykin then. We’ve been married 60 years.

When we got to northern Italy, we were assigned to Fifth After the war, I was offered and accepted a regular Army Army artillery. We were sent wherever the troops needed commission. The Army sent me to Harvard Business School additional artillery support, which meant that we supported where I received an MBA degree, this time in cap and gown. every U.S. division in Italy at one time or another.

Among other assignments, I spent three years in the First Army I participated in two campaigns − the Northern Apennines Comptroller’s office doing management engineering studies of and the Poe Valley – that helped end the war in Italy. I the installations in the First Army area. I served as an ROTC remember one day I went to check on our forward observer. instructor at St. Mary’s College in San Antonio and as assistant When I got to a place with two ridges and a valley in between, to the Chief of Staff in the 8th Army Headquarters in Korea. the Germans were on one ridge and on the other was a crazy I also served as Chief of the plans division in the G-3 section

42 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

of Headquarters US Army Europe where I was responsible for drafting the plans to relocate the Army units thrown out of France by Gen. De Gaulle and the plans for combining 7th Army Headquarters with USAREUR Headquarters. I commanded a nuclear capable Artillery Battalion in Germany, and I retired as a Colonel from my last assignment on the faculty of the Army War College.

While I appreciate the opportunity to tell my story, I don’t consider myself a hero.

One day, our entire company was going toward Austria, and I saw this old man pulling a cart. He was like a mule or a horse holding onto these two hitch rods in front of the cart. I just had to stop to see what he was doing.

I found out he could speak English, German and Russian.

I asked him what he was doing, and he said he was running

CLYDE NETTLES, UNITED STATES ARMY

I was in the Army for four years, but I only saw combat for one. I was at The Citadel in 1942 when they took the junior and senior classes, put us on a train, sent us to Fort Jackson and swore us into the Army. When we graduated, we were corporals in the Army and had to go to OCS. What was funny is that we knew more than the instructors.

My father, incidentally, didn’t want me to go to The Citadel, and after a few months into freshman year, I decided I didn’t like it. My father came to visit, and I had my bags packed and was ready to go. My father said, “I told you not to come, and you can come home. But, see, I’ve paid for all these grey uniforms, so you can come home and work in the lumber yard and drive the truck, but you’re going to wear those uniforms out before you go to another college, and then you’re going to pay for it.”

I told him to hold on a minute. I went back to my room and unpacked.

When we completed OCS, I was sent to Richmond, Va. Army Air Base where I joined an anti aircraft unit. While there I applied to become a pilot. Our unit was then sent to Cape Cod for winter maneuvers. My outfit received orders to go over seas, but I received orders to report to Texas for pilot training. My outfit left me at Cape Cod. The next day my orders changed, and I was ordered to go to Fort Benning for infantry training. I stayed there as an instructor and was promoted to 1st lieutenant.

While I was there, my parents came and brought Judy, my high school sweetheart. We had always joked about me proposing on her 20th birthday. During her visit we had a dance on base, and while we were dancing I realized it was her 20th birthday so I asked her. I said, “What’s your answer?”

She said, “You’ll have to do better than that! What will we tell our children?”

We were married, and then I was sent to join the 42nd infantry division at Camp Gruber in Oklahoma. Then the 42nd reported to New York and was sent overseas. We landed in Marseille, France and fought through France and Germany.

We ended up on the Austrian border, and I was promoted to Captain.

I stayed in the Army in Austria, in Salzburg, after the war.

www.columbiametro.com

Clyde Nettles

from the Russians. I could understand that, given the times. He said he was an artist and had taught at the Louvre in Paris. He said he had painted portraits of Hitler and all the generals in the German army, and that he had paintings hanging in the Louvre. I took that with a grain of salt, but then he showed us photos of all his portraits.

I told him to hook his cart to a jeep and come with us. I invited him to live with us, and he stayed about three weeks.

He played bridge with us and just really fit in. He said he wanted to paint a portrait of me. I told him no, that it would be too expensive for me. He said he would do it in exchange for the cigarettes I got as a soldier. I didn’t smoke, so I had plenty. So he painted the portrait. I have it here where we live. Years later, Judy and I visited the Louvre, and sure enough we saw his work on the walls there.

When I think back on my Army experience, I think about the men I served with. Some were lost. Some remain friends today. I believe the war had hidden returns we didn’t expect. I met people, black and white, from all over the United States. I think the war sure helped this whole country when it came to race relations.

I remember being dug in beside a set of railroad tracks.

At one point I saw an all-black platoon heading down the

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 43

I’M GLAD TO HAVE DONE MY SERVICE. THE WAR MADE ME GROW UP. I HAD BEEN IN COMMAND BEFORE AT THE CITADEL, BUT THIS WAS SOMETHING FAR DIFFERENT. Clyde Nettles

tracks with mounted 90-millimeter anti-tank guns. They got off the tracks, and I talked their lieutenant into firing the guns. That unit stopped an attack that was about to run us over. And they also shot down a jet. You have to remember the guns weren’t that accurate and it was pure luck, but we all thought that was something.

I was asked to go to Great Clyde Nettles Britain as assistant military attaché but decided against this and headed home. I then served in the Reserves for about six years.

I’m glad to have done my service. The war made me grow up. I had been in command before at The Citadel, but this was something far different.

MARSHALL MAYS, UNITED STATES NAVY AND BROOKSIE MAYS, AMERICAN RED CROSS

Marshall: I was a freshman at The Citadel when the war broke out in December of 1941. I went straight down to the Naval yard to enlist, and the people there asked me why I didn’t go to the Naval Academy. I did, and four years later the Navy sent me to sea aboard the USS Randolph, CV-15, an aircraft carrier.

I was qualified as a ship’s officer. I ran the ship while it was underway as well as in port. I was on the bridge with the crew.

When aircraft were flying out, we had to turn the ship into the wind basically to create wind for takeoff.

After the war was over, we brought troops home. We transported 5,000 troops from southern Naples. We had to build bunk beds five levels high on the hangar deck to fit them all. We also had on board 100 Army nurses, secluded

44 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

in what had been officers’ quarters, and we kept them under heavy guard.

With those 5,000 troops aboard, we’d have them line up for lunch. By the time the last person got through the line, it was time for them to line up again for dinner. Our captain was bound and determined to set some sort of speed record getting home from Gibraltar to New York. He was so determined, he sailed us right through the eye of a hurricane. Waves were splashing over our bow – and we were aboard an aircraft carrier! That captain later became a naval attaché in Moscow.

My Naval war service ended in 1947. I went to law school but stayed in the Naval Reserve. I was practicing law in Greenwood when I got recalled for the Korean War, but I was sent to Europe with the 6th Fleet Headquarters in Naples. I was transferred to European Command (EUCOM) Headquarters in Frankfurt where Brooksie and I got married. EUCOM Headquarters was moved to Paris because the military was convinced the Russians would come west. We were in Paris until 1954 when De Gaulle wanted the U.S. military out of France. I was released, and we returned to South Carolina.

Brooksie: I graduated from USC in June of 1945. The war ended in August. I had been volunteering in various ways but

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

was dying to do something more. I had tried enlisting in the Navy and joining the Red Cross when I was 19, but I was too young. They wouldn’t send you overseas until you were 21.

The Korean War began in 1950 while I was working at USC after graduation, so I applied to the Red Cross. They sent me to Japan for three months and then Korea for 15 months.

After Japan, I was sent first to Taegu with the 49th Air Wing. In Taegu, the Red Cross operated a canteen. The boys called us the “Doughnut Dollies.” We had a Quonset hut we used as our canteen. We had musical instruments and ping pong tables. I’ll bet I played a thousand games of pinochle and chess. If I was in danger, I really didn’t know it. That said, our base was subject to bombardment. The Chinese had MIGs in the northern regions.

We would take coffee and doughnuts out to the ground crews “on the line” after the aircraft took off. Then a jeep would drive us up the mountain to do the same for the “ackack” crews. There was nothing up there. These men were living in caves or tents. It seemed they never saw anyone and never came down to the base.

The Chinese came into Korea as far south as Pusan, which was one of the most important ports. All the supplies and troops came in through Pusan, and most railheads were located there.

All the United Nations troops came in through there: Indians, Ethiopians, Turks, Greeks and British – which included Scots and Irish troops. The Norwegians had hospital ships ported there. We would go to the docks to welcome the new troops with, of course, coffee, doughnuts and cigarettes.

We would also talk to the wounded troops lined up on the docks on stretchers.

After six months I was transferred to Pusan, and it was an

Brooksie Mays

www.columbiametro.com

Marshall and Brooksie Mays

entirely different place. The Red Cross women and nurses lived in stucco houses that had been built for American occupation forces between 1945-1950. We had a recreation club that was a big wooden structure that had a record player and a stage where we could have shows and bands. Every now and then we’d get a celebrity like Bob Hope.

Marshall and I met at the university when he was in law school. When we both went to the Korean War, we corresponded. We even arranged by letter to be married. I took a ship, a British freighter that took on 12 passengers, out of Kobi, Japan. We stopped in Hong Kong, Singapore and Sri Lanka, among many stops.

We went through the Suez Canal, stopped in Egypt and finally made it to Italy where Marshall was stationed.

We met in Genoa and then went to the Alps to ski.

Marshall: But she didn’t marry me then. She had to go home to see her mother before taking her marriage vows.

Brooksie: I had been gone from home for so long. I took another ship home and stayed for three months. I spent some time with Marshall’s parents who I had only briefly met before. I was to take another ship to France out of New York, but Queen Elizabeth’s coronation was scheduled the same day as we were to be married and

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 45

Brooksie and Marshall Mays

I HAD BEEN VOLUNTEERING BUT WAS DYING TO

I WAS A FRESHMAN AT THE CITADEL WHEN

DO SOMETHING MORE. I HAD TRIED ENLISTING

THE WAR BROKE OUT IN DECEMBER OF

IN THE NAVY AND JOINING THE RED CROSS,

1941. I WENT STRAIGHT DOWN TO THE

BUT I WAS TOO YOUNG TO GO OVERSEAS.

NAVAL YARD TO ENLIST.

Brooksie Mays

Marshall Mays

the crews struck because they knew they had the passengers by the throat. They finally relented. Marshall had made plans for our wedding, but I didn’t make it. I got there the next day.

Some friends of ours near Frankfurt got flowers, food and a string orchestra and allowed us to be married in their home by an Air Force chaplain. We had to be married, also, by the German Burgomeister two hours earlier.

Marshall: We were only 40 miles from the Russian sector.

Some of our friends who had a little too much to drink at the

wedding took their empty champagne bottles and threw them at the Russian troops!

Brooksie: It was a different time then. The international community looked to us for help, looked up to us. We came along in a generation where it was expected you’d do something to help. What John Kennedy said about asking what you could do for your country was just a reiteration of what we understood.

46 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

FEATURE

Hiliarie Covington Leesville

S

Bill Bowen Chapin

anta Smarts

Questioning (and answering) our holiday traditions Michael Covington Columbia

Buffy Crabtree Columbia

Mandy Dufries Lexington

Brenda Gable Pelion

Jan McKinney Camden

Jacob Smith, III Springdale

Teresa Williams Camden

Cheryl Wolfe Chapin

www.columbiametro.com

By Janey Goude

Why do you eat turkey on Thanksgiving? Who decided to cut down a pine tree, take it into their house and put lights on it? Why do you kiss under the mistletoe?

Traditions make our holidays special and memorable. But do you know how the customs came to be? In many cases, the true origins of holiday traditions are

unknown, and it is the legends handed down to us – with various twists and turns added from one generation to the next − that become part of a family’s tapestry.

Columbia-area residents speculate on the inspirations for some popular holiday traditions. Enjoy a festive look at why we do what we do during the holidays.

Why do we eat turkey on Thanksgiving Day?

Brenda: Deer are out of hunting season.

Buffy: Wild fowl was a major source of food back then.

Jan: It will put everyone to sleep early so Momma can go shopping on Black Friday.

Mandy: I believe it is thought, but not confirmed, that the pilgrims and Indians may have feasted on turkey or some type of bird.

Some credit Queen Elizabeth I with the turkey’s celebrated center-stage appearance at Thanksgiving. Others claim turkey did not receive the spotlight at that first Thanksgiving, pointing to the variety of other foods available to the pilgrims. One man claims a Hebrew manuscript found near Salem, Mass., proves turkey was the main entrée in 1621. Though experts disagree on the details, all agree the wild turkey is native to North America. The turkeys’ popularity nearly drove them to extinction, causing the U.S. government to come to their rescue in 1991.

What is the point of a cornucopia?

Teresa: A what?

Hiliarie: To show how bountiful the crop was.

Jacob: I have no idea.

Michael: It’s the horn of plenty.

The word “cornucopia” comes from two Latin words that mean “horn of plenty.”

The legend of the cornucopia dates to ancient Greece, where various myths began. One version personifies an age-old conflict: two gods fighting over a woman. Another is of baby Zeus, which itself has two variations: the horn came either from his goat or his nurse. Regardless of which myth you embrace, the horn – filled to overflowing with fruit and grain – symbolizes an abundant harvest.

Why do we put trees in our homes during Christmas?

Hiliarie: It smells so nice!

Mandy: Martin Luther started the tradition of decorating with a Christmas tree, and

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 47

I believe he put candles on the tree. In our home, we decorate with a tree out of tradition and also as a symbol and reminder of the cross of Jesus.

Brenda: So the cat will have something else to scratch besides the couch.

Bill: I suspect my German/Swiss/Huguenot relatives who settled in the middle of South Carolina continued this very special tradition from their homeland.

Christmas trees inside homes are traced to 16th century Germany. The German Protestant reformer Martin Luther is credited with adding the first lighted candles to a tree in his home.

The first recorded Christmas tree in America was found in the Pennsylvania home of a German settler in the 1830s.

Where did Santa Claus come from?

Bill: I don’t know because I had said my prayers and gone to sleep when he arrived.

Teresa: Kris Kringle – a single man who chose to bless unfortunate children by dressing in disguise so he would not be recognized.

Michael: Just say “Saint Nicholas” with a German accent. It sounds like “Sant Ni Claus.” Say it three times fast, and it sounds like “Santa Claus.”

Jan: There really was a St. Nicholas who lived in the 6th century.

He gave gifts to the children in his church as a gesture to show the way Jesus would treat children. As people immigrated to America, they brought with them the tradition of leaving gifts for children as a surprise.

St. Nicholas is widely accepted as the man behind the legendary Santa Claus. Dutch settlers to New Amsterdam (now New York) have been credited with bringing Santa Claus to America. We have the 19th century caricaturist and political cartoonist Thomas Nast to thank for his jolly features.

Why do we go Christmas caroling?

Jacob: To spread the joy of Christmas.

Teresa: ‘Cause Grandma did it.

Michael: To spread good cheer and rejoice in the good news that Christmas symbolizes.

Carols began as religious songs in 14th century Europe, perhaps even as early as the 13th century. Originally the singing was accompanied by dancing. By the 16th century, caroling had become associated with just singing, primarily at Christmas.

Caroling fell out of favor sometime around the 16th century until the 1700s. Modern Christmas carols were penned mostly during the 1700s and 1800s.

Why do we send Christmas cards?

Buffy: To extend happy wishes to friends and family.

Teresa: That’s a good question, especially since we can send emails and text messages!

Jacob: To show loved ones an updated picture.

Jan: To remind people that Christ was born and that we are thinking of them.

Are you Smarter than our Holiday Tradition Experts?

1. Which has been an official U.S. holiday longer: Thanksgiving or Christmas?

Three experts (Buffy, Hiliarie, Michael) beat the 50/50 odds on this question.

2. Which President made Thanksgiving a national holiday?

Two experts (Buffy, Jan) knew whom to credit.

3. Which President made Christmas a national holiday?

Not one expert nailed this one!

Answers: 1. Thanksgiving 2. Abraham Lincoln in 1863. Originally Thanksgiving was the last Thursday in November. In 1939, amidst the Great Depression, President Roosevelt recommended moving Thanksgiving to the next to the last Thursday of November. At the time it was unacceptable to advertise for Christmas before Thanksgiving, so by moving Thanksgiving one week earlier, Americans would have an extra week to Christmas shop – thereby boosting the struggling economy. Twenty-three states thought it was a splendid idea; 22 states took a pass. Since everything’s bigger in Texas, they decided to take both Thursdays off as government holidays. In 1941 Congress set Thanksgiving’s current holiday schedule: the fourth Thursday of November.

3. Ulysses S. Grant in 1870.

48 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

No one knows exactly when the first Christmas card was sent.

But by 1822, handmade holiday cards had become so popular that the head of the U.S. postal system petitioned Congress to limit Christmas card exchange. In 1843, Sir Henry Cole commissioned a well-known London illustrator to design his personal Christmas card. He took the painting to a printer and made 1,000 copies. After sending them to friends and family, he sold the rest for sixpence each – the very first mass-produced commercial Christmas greeting card.

Why do we exchange Christmas presents?

Brenda: To stimulate the economy.

Jacob: Because the three wise men brought gifts to the baby Jesus.

Hiliarie: To show who was good this year.

Mandy: At our home we exchange Christmas presents to express our love and appreciation for our loved ones and as a reminder of the ultimate gift of Jesus.

St. Nicholas’s generosity is one reason given for exchanging Christmas presents. Also contending for gift-giving credit are an ancient Roman festival and the three wise men bearing gifts for baby Jesus. The first advertisement for American Christmas gift-giving is traced to 1804. By the 1840s Christmas gift-giving had mushroomed into the commercialized celebration we know today.

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

Why do we hang a Christmas stocking?

Jan: Because it’s in the song: “… the stockings were hung by the chimney with care …”

Cheryl: We never had Christmas stockings but hung up our real socks because that was what we had. I never knew anyone that used anything else back then.

Hiliarie: For Santa to put a small present or coal in.

Mandy: Long ago the stockings were hung by the fire to dry.

While the details vary, the most widely shared story involves St. Nicholas throwing gold down the chimney of a poor widower with three daughters. Each sister had her stockings hung on the chimney to dry. One piece of St. Nicholas’s gold landed in each of the girls’ stockings. We put our stockings on the chimney hoping for similar good fortune.

Why are fruit (oranges, apples, tangerines) and nuts common stocking stuffers?

Jacob: They were considered great gifts back in the day.

Cheryl: Fruit was not as available when my parents were children, so I think they considered it something very special to put in our stockings – maybe a feeling of prosperity to be able to do that.

Hiliarie: They don’t melt or go bad through the night. Personally, I think because they take up a lot of room!

Jan: Only in recent times have we been able to get these fruits all year long. They used to be very seasonal with the holidays.

Although citrus fruit was readily available and being shipped on the transcontinental railway as early as the 1880s, during difficult economic times like the Great Depression, fresh fruit was still a rare and appreciated commodity. The round ball shape of the orange in the toe of the stocking is said to symbolize the gold that St. Nicholas threw into the widower’s daughters’ stockings – which symbolizes good fortune. A German custom is to give five small presents in the stocking -- one to stimulate each of the five senses. Fruit and nuts delight two of the five senses. Fruit and candy excite the sense of taste, while the sound of nuts cracking incites the sense of hearing.

Why do we kiss under the mistletoe?

Bill: Never found out because I didn’t want to take time out from the kissin’ to ask!

Michael: The mistletoe puts us in a spell. It was used by ancients to cast love spells on people.

Hiliarie: It’s an excuse to kiss!

Brenda: It’s bad luck not to.

Ancient Greeks used mistletoe in a festival and in marriage rituals. The 18th century English mistletoe kissing-ball was believed to hold magical power over the romantic life of girls who passed beneath it. A kiss under its power brought good luck and marriage.

Refusing a kiss meant bad luck and another year as a maiden. In an ancient Druid ceremony, a girl would stand beneath the mistletoe.

For every berry a boy picked, he would kiss the girl once. When the berries were gone, the kissing was over.

www.columbiametro.com

Our Favorite Holiday Traditions Bill: As a child and young adult, I remember going to my grandparents’ home in the country and going hunting with all of the men on Thanksgiving morning and Christmas afternoon, then gathering with my cousins, aunts and uncles around the old upright piano and singing together.

Hiliarie: Going the evening of Thanksgiving to pick out our Christmas tree. Then we decorate it during the LSU football game!

Michael: Family dinner followed by singing carols.

Buffy: When my grandsons were younger, every year I’d take them shopping so they could buy a nice gift for their mom and dad.

Mandy: We set aside a portion of the Christmas gift money we would spend on the children. Using the money that would have been spent on them, our children choose gifts for children who are less fortunate.

Brenda: Watching the cats swat the ornaments around the hardwood floors and getting caught up in ribbon.

Jan: We received communion as part of our Christmas Eve wedding ceremony. Since then it’s been our tradition to have a candlelight dinner and communion on Christmas Eve. What began as a “couple” celebration has turned into a family celebration over the years.

Jacob: We give three gifts to each of our children, just like baby Jesus got from the wise men.

Teresa: We spend about a half hour going around the room doing a sort of Christmas variety show. Everyone in our family does something – a couple sing, some write poetry to share, some draw pictures – but we always end up with reading the Bible story of the Christ Child from the book of Luke.

Cheryl: Christmas used to be the only time you ever saw chocolate-covered cherries; they were a favorite gift to give someone. My father-inlaw always gave us a $50 check on top of a box of cherries. My husband has carried on this tradition with our children – adding his own twist. He takes hours slicing the wrapping open and putting false bottoms, tops or sides in the boxes to conceal their Christmas money. Sometimes he’ll hide the box of cherries in a bigger box to trick them.

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 49

HOME STYLE

Fairies, Family and Frasier Firs

Pine boughs, frosted sugarplum berries and gold poinsettias and stems drape the mantle in the Griffins’ home, projecting a magical feeling.

50 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

Marshall and Caroline Griffin’s Nutcracker-esque home

By Margaret Gregory Photography by Robert Clark

I

t is the Christmas season at the Griffin house – a grand house with the most beautiful tree imaginable – and the Griffins are hosting their annual Christmas party, welcoming the arrival of their family and friends. Does this sound like the opening to one of the season’s most famous ballets, The Nutcracker? Walk through the front door of Marshall and Caroline Griffin’s home, and you’ll feel as though you truly have walked onto the stage itself.

Since moving to their home near Congaree Farms in Columbia in 2005, Caroline knew that she wanted to transform the foyer with its 21-foot ceiling into a beautiful Christmas display. Each year, up in the mountains of Balsam Grove, N.C., a grower selects a

Marshall and Caroline Griffin’s daughter Perrin has danced a role in The Nutcracker each year since she was four years old.

www.columbiametro.com

Decorations throughout the Griffins’ home reflect their daughter’s love of ballet.

Frasier Fir tree especially for the Griffin family. The 19foot tree is cut just before Thanksgiving and delivered to their house the next day. Her landscaper brings his crew to help get the tree through the front door and into the house. A friend of Caroline’s notes that her trees are even larger than those selected for the White House.

Then the decorating begins! Working with her interior designer, Steven Ford, and his assistant Kathy Blackburn, Caroline transforms her house into a beautiful Christmas wonderland. Steven and his staff spend two full days decorating the mammoth tree, using a 14-foot ladder as well as leaning precariously from the upstairs balcony for the perfect placement of ornaments. “When we first began selecting ornaments for the tree, we realized that regular-sized ornaments would be completely lost on a tree this large, so we chose ornaments the size of soccer balls,” Steven says. “The most important rule when working with a tree this large is scale, scale, scale.”

The color scheme for the tree blends perfectly with the palette throughout the house. The house features gold tone paints and beautiful silver services and décor, so the tree is ablaze with gold, silver and white ornaments. Gold netting and a collection of Lynn West fairies add more sparkle and magic to the tree, as nearly 20,000 white lights dance and shimmer among the branches. “I just love to see the joy on people’s faces when they see the tree. I remember the look on my Dad’s face – how his face just lit up the first time he saw it,” recalls Caroline.

The same look and feel of the main tree carries over into the formal living area. Pine boughs, frosted

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 51

“I just love to see the joy on people’s faces when they see the tree. I remember the look on my Dad’s face – how his face just lit up the first time he saw it,” recalls Caroline.

A 19-foot tree is cut just for the Griffins and is brought from North Carolina to their home the day after Thanksgiving.

sugarplum berries and gold poinsettias and stems drape the mantle, while a Lynn West fairy hangs out beneath a gold palm tree on the marble top coffee table, along with a glass bowl filled with gold and silver pears.

The decorating doesn’t end there. Caroline places a tall, slender tree in the music room, a miniature version of the main tree but with a musical theme. A third tree in the family room reflects the Griffins’ 13-year-old daughter’s love of ballet. Perrin has danced a role in the Columbia Classical Ballet’s rendition of The Nutcracker since she was four years old, a tradition that will continue this year. Each year, Perrin and a friend decorate the tree with ballet slippers, ballerinas and nutcrackers. “We then take the larger standing nutcrackers and work them throughout the room,” adds Steven.

Indeed, the entire family gets wrapped up in the

52 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

Christmas spirit. Caroline’s husband, Marshall, insisted that they needed a train. “He began looking for just the right train and track and began collecting them to run around the bottom of the tree,” laughs Caroline. The presents sit just inside the track as the engine tugs past.

Gold and silver pinecones sit among the presents as well. “One day, Perrin and a friend decided that they would collect pinecones and spray paint them,” recalls Caroline, “and we decided that they would make great filler for the tree.” Adds Steven, “That wasn’t even planned, but it worked beautifully.”

Finding a tree skirt large enough was also a challenge.

“The first year we had the tree, I didn’t have a tree skirt,” Carolina says. “So I had the idea to lay fresh moss under the tree. Perrin was crawling up under the tree to lay out the moss. That was the last year for that. I told Steven we had to find a skirt!” Caroline laughs. And he did. The tree skirt spans 10 feet underneath the branches of the tree.

Each year brings an opportunity to add to the beauty of the tree. “The first year, we had what we thought would be plenty of ornaments,” says Caroline, “and it looked good but still needed more. We would make notes for the following year on what we thought we needed to add for the tree and for the mantle.” That means shopping for Christmas decorations goes on year round.

“I’ll see something at market or Caroline will come across ornaments that fit with the theme, so we’re continually building the collection,” says Steven.

Of course, what goes up must come down eventually.

Caroline spends at least a week carefully undoing and wrapping the ornaments and décor. “Everyone leaves me on my own when it comes to taking down the tree and all the ornaments,” she grins, although her landscaper does help get the tree out of the house.

The most important part of the holiday for the Griffins is spending time with family and friends. Even the neighbors get in the on the decorating act. “One of my neighbors is an airline pilot, and he adjusts his schedule so that he can help,” Caroline says. It’s also an opportunity to have their families come together. “We have Christmas dinner on Christmas night. It’s a huge gathering of both of our families and our friends,” says Caroline. “It’s so much fun to have everyone here. It really is a modern creation of The Nutcracker with the big tree and lots of family gathering for Christmas, and that’s what the season is all about – sharing.”

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

www.columbiametro.com

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 53

54 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

www.columbiametro.com

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 55

HOME STYLE

On the Move

56 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

WildeWood Garden Club’s progressive holiday dinner

By Susan Fuller Slack, S.C. Master Gardener / Photography courtesy of Suzi Fields

W

rapped in an atmosphere of Southern sophistication and hospitality, the annual WildeWood Garden Club holiday dinner is a progressive neighborhood party. The gala affair, the most popular event of the year, is a moveable feast that requires guests to change party locations before each course is served, allowing each host the opportunity to entertain without the commitment of an entire evening.

The glittering event has been a tradition for the past 28 years and is an important activity in the garden club’s history. It is a great way for members and their significant others to get to know each other and strengthen bonds of friendship. Member Suzi Fields has attended at least 20 times and says, “The progressive dinner is the perfect way to begin the festive winter holidays.”

A January 1908 New York Times article praised Southern dining and lauded the social skills of South Carolina’s hostesses, who are still making headlines today. The WildeWood Garden Club’s annual holiday dinner has been featured in numerous publications, including Southern Living and Traditional Home.

Detailed planning by numerous committees has always been a hallmark of the party’s success. Garden club members have perfected their party skills to an art form, producing all the food, holiday decorations and tablescapes. Over 100 members support the event annually.

Cheri Crowley, 2008 club president, says, “We could not do this special event year after year without the generosity of our members, who start before Thanksgiving preparing their stunning homes to share with us on this magical night.”

front doors and reindeer “grazing” in landscaped beds hint at the festivities to be found inside. Each home is adorned with festive touches in every nook and cranny. Beribboned garlands of greenery drape cascading staircase banisters.

Christmas trees are gilded with touches of

gold: glittering ornaments and countless yards of luminous net-ribbon flow across the branches.

The avid gardeners showcase their stylish, sparkling tabletops with beautiful linens and seasonal floral arrangements.

Like sparking jewelry or a fashionable

The Art of the Party As guests arrive at the homes, holiday flourishes like lavish wreaths on These photos tell the story of the2008 event. Organization and coordination fell into the very capable hands of Chairwomen Vickie Brogdon, Barbara Irons and Jane Whiteside, who is the club’s newly minted president for 2009. Katie McDougall and Carol Lynn Kennedy are chairwomen for the 2009 event.

www.columbiametro.com

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 57

lady’s hat, place settings of china and crystal are the final, exquisite touch. A souvenir menu booklet is tucked into each place setting.

Over the years, the garden club dinner has continued to evolve, and the venue occasionally varies. This year’s event, called “Holidays In Bloom,” will begin on the evening of Dec. 12 with a tour of three unique WildeWood homes. Members and guests will enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, after which everyone will gather at WildeWood Country Club for a seated dinner, dessert and dancing. The Members Club at Woodcreek and WildeWood will cater the event.

So the tradition continues, with a sense of style and a vision that defines everything these talented gardeners take on. Flowers, food and neighborliness can become a successful bridge to friendship. It’s the Southern way.

Tips for the Host The advice of a confident party hostess is never dated. Here are tips that can help make your own neighborhood party run like clockwork.  Pre-planning is key. When planning a schedule for each house, take into consideration travel time between locations. Allow extra time for the first and last stops – appetizers/hors d’oeuvres and desserts.  Stay within the neighborhood.

Dinner houses should be within close proximity.  “Many hands make light work.”

Instead of one couple doing all the work, divide up the jobs: preplanning, decorating, cooking, serving and cleanup.  Pick a theme. Dinner party themes can reflect holidays, special events or ethnic cuisines.  Test the recipes carefully. Always test your recipes before serving them to a large crowd. It’s also a good idea to conduct wine tastings and pairings before the event.  It’s all in the details. Pick an entrée

58 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

that can be prepared in advance or needs little last minute attention so the cookhosts can enjoy a carefree evening.  Prepare as much as you can ahead.

Have a committee do advance prep and then have each hostess pick up her portion to take home and freeze until cooking time. Wine can be picked up at the same time.  Keep costs in line. Scour the neighborhood for greenery, magnolia branches, pinecones, berries and mistletoe. Share plants with your neighbors.  Don’t be afraid of shortcuts. Garden club members prepared the food, served it and cleaned up afterwards, but they hired bartenders and other help for the cocktail party.

Special thanks to Suzi Fields and Jane Whiteside for their help with this article.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 60

www.columbiametro.com

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 59

WildeWood Garden Onion Tarts

by Lynn Wheeler 1 tablespoon butter 6 to 8 ounces chopped onion (1 medium to large) 2 8-ounce bars cream cheese, softened 1 cup (4 ounces) grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup mayonnaise 45 frozen phyllo cups finely sliced green onion tops paprika Melt butter in a large saucepan; sautĂŠ onion until translucent.

In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, Parmesan cheese and mayonnaise; mix well. Spoon into the phyllo cups and arrange on a baking sheet. Bake at 425 degrees for 6 to 8 minutes or until set.

Garnish with green onion and/or paprika. Makes 45 onion tarts.

Variations: You can add some finely chopped salmon to the filling, if desired. Green onions and paprika can also be used to decorate the serving platter.

Holiday Cranberry Salad

by Carol Lynn Kennedy 1 cup walnuts, dry roasted and coarsely chopped 2 10-ounce packages mixed salad greens 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced 2 4-ounce packages crumbled goat cheese 2 cups dried cranberries, sweetened

Dressing 4 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons honey 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard 1/2 teaspoon white pepper 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil To prepare dressing, briskly whisk together vinegar, honey, mustard and white pepper.

Add the oil in a thin stream while constantly whisking dressing ingredients. Use at once or set aside while preparing remaining ingredients.

Dry roast walnuts in a dry, heavy skillet over a low burner for 2 to 3 minutes. Watch carefully; remove from heat the minute they become fragrant and begin to color. Nuts can be roasted in advance and stored in an airtight container.

On 8 salad plates, layer the salad greens, red onion, goat cheese, cranberries and walnuts.

Re-blend dressing and drizzle onto the salads.

Makes 8 servings.

Lemon Tea Cakes

by Katie McDougal 1 box Duncan Hines yellow cake mix 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened

60 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

Club Recipes 1 large egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 jar lemon curd 1 to 2 small containers fresh raspberries Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Briefly rinse raspberries and let them dry on paper towels. Lightly coat mini muffin tins with nonstick spray.

In a large bowl, combine cake mix, cream cheese, egg and vanilla. Mix completely; batter will be stiff. Cover and chill for 30 minutes. Drop 1/2 teaspoon batter into each muffin cup. With slightly moistened fingers, press batter, flattening it like a piecrust. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes; let cool slightly. With pointer finger, make an indention in the top of each cake. Remove from pans and cool on wire racks. Fill with 1/4 teaspoon lemon curd (can be piped with a pastry bag). Top each cake with a raspberry. Makes 48 tea cakes.

Cakes can be made one day ahead. Top with lemon curd and raspberries just before serving.

Tomato Bacon Cups

by Carol Lynn Kennedy

8 slices of crispy bacon, crumbled 1 medium tomato, seeded and chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped 1/2 cup mayonnaise 4 ounces Swiss cheese, shredded 2 1/2 teaspoons fresh shredded basil, plus 1 teaspoon for garnish 1 1/2 teaspoons Mrs. Dash Original Seasoning 1 10-ounce package refrigerated flaky biscuits Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Mix bacon, tomato, onion, mayonnaise and cheese. Stir in 2 1/2 teaspoons basil and the seasoning. Separate each biscuit into 3 thin layers (for 24 layers). Using 2 mini muffin pans, place 1 biscuit layer in each muffin cup. Spoon some of the bacon mixture on top of each biscuit layer. Bake according to directions on biscuit can or until golden brown. Watch carefully; tomato bacon cups could be done faster than stated on the can. Remove from pans and garnish with remaining basil. Makes 24 appetizers.

www.columbiametro.com

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 61

62 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

www.columbiametro.com

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 63

NEW TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD?

New Home Communities

indicates a natural gas community

1. Baneberry Place Price Range of New Homes: $127,990 - $189,840 School District: Lexington 1 Shumaker Homes, (803) 787-HOME Eric McCord, (803) 356-1544 www.ShumakerHomes.com Directions: Take I-20 West to Exit 51/Longs Pond Rd. Turn left onto Longs Pond Rd. and continue to community entrance on right.

2. Beasley Creek Price Range of New Homes: $150,990 - $260,480 School District: Richland 2 Shumaker Homes, (803) 787-HOME Deronda Lucas & John Bray, (803) 735-1203 www.ShumakerHomes.com Directions: Take I-77 North to Exit 24/Wilson Blvd. Turn left onto Wilson Blvd, then right onto Turkey Farm Rd. Beasley Creek is ahead on the left.

3. Blythecreek Price Range of New Homes: mid-$130,000s - $200,000 School District: Richland 2 Midlands Realtors, LLC Steve Applewhite, (803) 309-2023 Kendrick Chiles, (803) 730-9553 www.midlandsrealtors.com Directions: Take I-77 North to Exit 27/Blythewood Rd. Turn right onto Blythewood Rd., then left at light onto Boney Rd. Blythecreek is 1.5 miles ahead on the left.

4. Congaree Downs Price Range of New Homes: $109,990 - $156,490 School District: Lexington 2 Shumaker Homes, (803) 787-HOME Alicia White & Jeannie Michaels, (803) 755-0406 www.ShumakerHomes.com Directions: Take I-26 East to Exit 113 toward SC-302/Columbia Airport/Cayce. Turn right onto Ramblin Rd. and continue 1 mile to community entrance on left.

5. Courtside Commons Price Range of New Homes: $104,900 - $119,900 School District: Lexington 1 US Properties – SC, Ltd. Deborah C. Hall, (803) 234-7810 www.courtsidecommons.com Directions: Take I-26 East to Exit 111/ US Hwy 1 to Lexington. Turn right onto Oak Drive at Barnyard

64 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

Flea Market. Community is .25 mile on left next to Lexington Tennis Facility.

6. Creek Ridge Price Range of New Homes: $200,000 and up Price Range of Lots: $33,500 - $66,900 School District: Richland 2 Russell & Jeffcoat Realtors

Peggy Fowler, (803) 600-5741 www.creekridgeblythewood.com Directions: Take I-77 North to Exit 27/Blythewood. Turn right and go to second light. Turn left onto Wilson Blvd. to immediate right on Langford. At first light, travel 4.5 miles to left on Grover Wilson, 3.5 miles to right on Bear Creek, .5 mile to right on N.E. Miles to right into Ridge Creek.

7. Dawson’s Park Price Range of New Homes: $99,900 - $147,900 School District: Lexington 1 Midlands Realtors, LLC Donna Reed, (803) 422-4700 www.midlandsrealtors.com Directions: Take Highway 1 away from Lexington. Community is .5 mile from Lexington High School on the right.

8. Eagle Pointe Price Range of New Homes: $130,000 - $170,000 School District: Lexington 5 Great Southern Homes Bill Guess, (803) 360-0941 www.gshomes.gs Directions: Take I-26 West to Exit 91 and turn left toward Chapin.

Go approximately 1 mile and turn left onto Lexington Ave. Go

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

approximately 2.5 miles and turn right onto Stucks Point Drive. Eagle Pointe will be .25 mile on the left.

9. Eagles Rest at Lake Murray Price Range of New Homes: $204,990 - $265,480 School District: Lexington 5 Shumaker Homes, (803) 787-HOME Donna Stevens, (803) 407-3708

www.columbiametro.com

www.ShumakerHomes.com Directions: Take I-26 West to Exit 101A/Ballentine/White Rock/US 176. Merge onto Dutch Fork Rd., then left on Johnson Marina Rd. and left on Richard Franklin Rd. to community entrance on right.

10. Eagles Rest at Lake Murray Garden Homes Price Range of New Homes:

$214,990 - $236,990 School District: Lexington 5 Shumaker Homes, (803) 787-HOME Vickie Proper, (803) 732-5950 www.ShumakerHomes.com Directions: Take I-26 West to Exit 101A/Ballentine/White Rock/US 176.

Merge onto Dutch Fork Rd., then left on Johnson Marina Rd. and left on Richard Franklin Rd. to community entrance on right.

11. Eve’s Garden Price Range of New Homes: $250,000 - $364,000 School District: Kershaw County Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS Ž Novella Taylor, (803) 730-3738 www.NovellaTaylor.com Directions: Take I-20 East to Exit 98.

Turn left toward Camden, then right at Black River Rd.

12. GreenHill Parish Price Range of New Homes: $325,000 - $600,000 Price Range of Lots: $35,000 - $80,000 School District: Richland 2 Manning Kirk & Associates Russell & Jeffcoat Realtors Barbara Puffenbarger, (803) 699-0015 www.greenhillparish.com

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 65

Directions: Take I-20 East to Exit 82/Spears Creek Church Rd. Turn left onto Spears Creek Church Rd., and continue 2 miles to GreenHill Parish entrance on right.

13. Haigs Creek Price Range of New Homes: $270,000 - $360,000 Price Range of Lots: $40,000 - $48,000 School District: Kershaw County Russell & Jeffcoat Realtors, Inc. Shelba Wooten Mattox, (803) 600-0527 www.haigscreek.com Directions: Take I-20 East to Exit 87, left onto White Pond Rd., right onto Whiting Way (frontage road) and left into Haigs Creek. Follow the new homes signs to new construction.

14. Indigo Place Price Range of New Homes: $109,900 School District: Lexington 2 Midlands Realtors, LLC Bridget Biviano, (803) 479-8349 www.midlandsrealtors.com Directions: Take I-77 South to Gaston Exit. Go straight across Charleston Highway (Hwy 321) onto Fish Hatchery Rd. Indigo Place is .5 mile ahead on right.

15. Indigo Springs Price Range of New Homes: $150,000 - $230,000 School District: Richland 2 Great Southern Homes Debi Burke, (803) 546-9000 www.gshomes.gs Directions: Take I-20 East to Exit 80 and turn left onto Clemson Rd. Go approximately four miles and turn right at Summit Parkway. Turn right onto Timber Crest. At stop sign, turn left and then right onto Indigo Springs Drive.

16. Jacob’s Creek Price Range of New Homes: $120,000 - $250,000 School District: Richland 2 Great Southern Homes Robert Perry, (803) 360-9165 www.gshomes.gs Directions: Take I-20 East to Exit 82 and turn left onto Spears Creek Church Rd. Jacob’s Creek is approximately 3 miles ahead on the right.

17. Jasmine Place Price Range of New Homes:

66 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

$114,000 - $208,300 School District: Richland 1 Shumaker Homes, (803) 787-HOME Christine Landers & Sharon Thomas, (803) 754-0674 www.ShumakerHomes.com Directions: Take I-77 North to Exit 19/Farrow Rd. Turn left on Farrow Rd. then left on Hardscrabble Rd. Community entrance is ahead on right.

18. Kelsney Ridge Price Range of New Homes: $160,000s - $300,000 School District: Kershaw County ERA Wilder Realty Ken Queen, (803) 600-3361 Directions: Take Two Notch/Hwy 1 north to just over Kershaw County line. Turn right on Steven Campbell Rd. Go approximately 1 mile to Kelsney Ridge on left.

19. Lake Carolina Price Range of New Homes: $140,000s to $2,000,000+ School District: Richland 2 Lake Carolina Properties, (803) 736-5253 www.LakeCarolina.com Directions: Take I-77 North to Exit 22/Killian Rd. and turn right.

Killian Rd. will become Clemson Rd. At the third light, turn left onto Hardscrabble Rd. Continue for 2.5 miles. Turn right into Lake Carolina.

Please proceed to the Information Center for your personal tour of Lake Carolina.

20. Lake Frances Price Range of New Homes: $150,000 - $220,000 School District: Lexington 1 Great Southern Homes Beth Gardner, (803) 360-3599 www.gshomes.gs Directions: Take Blossom St. Bridge and continue to follow SC-215/US176/US-21/US-321. Take slight right at Airport Blvd/ SC-302.

Go approximately 5.5 miles and turn right onto Ramblin Rd. Lake Frances is on the left.

21. The Landings at Night Harbor Price Range of New Homes: $215,000 - $235,000 Price Range of Lots: $39,000 School District: Lexington 5 ERA Wilder Realty Debbie Erdman, (803) 917-3521 www.landingsatnightharbor.com Directions: Take I-26 West to Exit

91/Columbia Ave., toward Chapin for 2.1 miles. Continue through the light and you will be on Amick’s Ferry Rd., continuing 5.4 miles.

Turn left on Green Meadow Drive then turn left into Night Harbor and take an immediate right to the sales center.

22. Longtown Place Price Range of New Homes: $195,090 - $251,580 School District: Richland 2 Shumaker Homes, (803) 787-HOME Amanda Little, (803) 732-1515 www.ShumakerHomes.com Directions: Take I-77 North to Exit 22/Killian Rd. Turn right onto Killian Rd. and take to end. Turn left onto Longtown Rd. and continue to community entrance on the left.

23. Orchard Pointe Price Range of New Homes: $200,000 - $375,000 School District: Lexington 1 Sycamore Development, LLC, (803) 788-8300 Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS® Jean Reed, (803) 358-1158 www.orchardpointe.info, www.cbunited.com Directions: Take I-20 to Highway 378 West toward Lexington/Lake Murray Dam. Turn left onto Mineral Springs Rd. Orchard Pointe is 1.2 miles ahead on the right.

24. Paradise Cove on Lake Murray Price Range of New Homes: $299,000 - $700,000+ School District: Lexington/ Richland 5 ERA Wilder Realty Todd Beckstrom, (803) 719-2090 www.paradisecovelakemurray.com Directions: Take I-26 West to Exit 91/Chapin. Turn left over interstate and follow Columbia Ave. through Chapin. Go straight at stoplight, Amicks Ferry Rd. and veer to right after one mile. Continue on Amicks Ferry Rd. for approximately 2.1 miles and turn right on Crystal Lake Rd. Follow to end on left.

25. Peach Grove Villas Price Range of New Homes: $199,000 - $275,000 School District: Richland 2 Epcon Columbia Daniel Elmaleh, (803) 223-9545 www.peachgrovevillas.com Directions: Take I-20 West to Exit

80. Turn left onto Clemson Rd. Go 1.5 miles (towards the Village at Sandhill) and turn right onto Earth Rd. Peach Grove Villas is located on the right just before the entrance to Woodcreek Farms.

26. Rabons Farm Price Range of New Homes: $84,900 - $155,000 School District: Richland 2 Great Southern Homes Jody Styron, (803) 360-1558 www.gshomes.gs Directions: Take Bull St./SC-277 North and go approximately 9 miles. Take the Farrow Rd. exit and turn left. Turn right at Rabon Rd., slight left to stay on Rabon Rd. Turn left at Flora Dr. Turn Right at Rabons Springs Rd. 27. Saddlebrook Price Range of New Homes: $140,000s - $220,000s School District: Kershaw County ERA Wilder Realty Charlie Thomas, (803) 413-9607 Directions: Take Two Notch Rd./ Hwy 1 North. Go through Elgin, approximately 3 miles. Saddlebrook will be on the left.

28. Saluda River Club Price Range of New Homes: $190,000 - $1,000,000+ School District: Lexington 1 Saluda River Club Realty, LLC Bridget Downing, Kathy Seymour & Ted Johnson, (803) 358-3969 www.saludariverclub.com Directions: Take I-20 West to Exit 61/Hwy 378. Turn right and take immediate right onto Corley Mill Rd. The entrance to Saluda River Club is located 1.5 miles down Corley Mill Rd. on the right.

29. Stonemont Price Range of New Homes: $203,990 - $265,980 School District: Lexington/ Richland 5 Shumaker Homes, (803) 787-HOME Darlene Reese, (803) 732-1515 www.ShumakerHomes.com Directions: Take I-26 West to Exit 101A/Ballentine/White Rock. Turn right onto Koon Rd. to community entrance on left.

Anne Wilkins Brooks, (803) 359-9571 www.svrealty.com Directions: Take I-20 to Hwy 378.

Take Hwy 378 West through Lexington approximately 4 miles.

Summer Lake is on the right just past the Piggly Wiggly.

31. Wellesley Price Range of New Homes: $149,990 - $207,300 School District: Lexington 1 Shumaker Homes, (803) 787-HOME Matt Shealy & Brantley Jones, (803) 957-3290 www.ShumakerHomes.com Directions: Take I-20 West to Exit 61/US 378 toward Lexington.

Merge right on US 378 and turn left at first light onto Ginny Ln. Continue to community ahead on right.

32. Westcott Ridge Price Range of New Homes: Patio Homes $180,000 - $250,000; Traditional $300,000 - $500,000 School District: Lexington/ Richland 5 Russell & Jeffcoat Realtors Rhonda Jacobs Walsh, (803) 781-6552 www.westcottridge.com Directions: Take I-26 West to Exit 97/Peak. Veer Right on Hwy 176.

Westcott Ridge is on the left, across from Waterfall subdivision.

33. Willow Tree Price Range of New Homes: $114,000 - $208,300 School District: Richland 1 Shumaker Homes, (803) 787-HOME Angelia Jefferson, (803) 783-7183 www.ShumakerHomes.com Directions: Take I-77 North to Exit 9/Garners Ferry Rd./US 378. Turn right on Garners Ferry Rd., left on Trotter Rd., left on Caughman Rd. and right onto Ulmer Rd. Continue to community entrance ahead on left.

This listing is provided by the Home Builders Association of Greater Columbia.

30. Summer Lake Price Range of New Homes: $285,000 - $800,000 School District: Lexington 1 Southern Visions Realty, Inc.

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

LET’S GO SHOPPING FOR THE HOLIDAYS

www.columbiametro.com

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 67

LET’S GO SHOPPING FOR THE HOLIDAYS

68 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

LET’S GO SHOPPING FOR THE HOLIDAYS

www.columbiametro.com

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 69

LET’S GO SHOPPING IN FOREST ACRES

70 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

LET’S GO SHOPPING IN FOREST ACRES

www.columbiametro.com

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 71

LET’S GO SHOPPING ON DEVINE STREET

72 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

LET’S GO SHOPPING ON DEVINE STREET

www.columbiametro.com

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 73

Join us for our Holiday Open House Nov. 7 & 8

LET’S GO SHOPPING ON MEETING STREET

74 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

GOOD EATS

Restaurant Guide KEY $ - $10 or less $$ - $11 to $20 $$$ - $21 and up

B - Breakfast L - Lunch D - Dinner SBR - Sunday Brunch

Columbia Metropolitan’s 2009 Best of Columbia contest winners are in red.

DOWNTOWN & THE VISTA AMERICAN Bernie’s $ B,L,D 1311 Bluff Rd., 256-2888 Biscuit House $ B 1019 Bluff Rd., 256-0958 Blue Tapas Bar & Cocktail Lounge $ 721 A Lady St., 251-4447 Voted Best Cocktail Finlay’s Restaurant $$ B,L,D 1200 Hampton St. (in the Columbia Marriott), 771-7000 Flying Saucer $ L,D 931 Senate St., 933-999 Gervais & Vine $$ D Voted Best Appetizer Voted Best Wine Menu 620-A Gervais St., 799-VINE Hunter-Gatherer Brewery $$ L,D 900 Main St., 748-0540 Liberty Taproom & Grill $$ L,D 828 Gervais St., 461-4677 Mac’s on Main $ L,D 1710 Main St., 929-0037 Ruth’s Chris Steak House $$$ L,D Voted Best Steak 924-A Senate St. (at the Hilton), 212-6666 ASIAN M. Café $$ L,D 1417 Sumter St., 779-5789 Miyo’s Fine Shanghai & Szechuan Cuisine $$ L,D Voted Best Chinese Restaurant 922 S. Main St., 779-MIYO COFFEE/DESSERT Immaculate Consumption $ B,L 933 Main St., 799-9053 Nonnah’s $ L,D Voted Best Dessert 930 Gervais St., 779-9599

DELI Cloud Nine Market $ L 916 Gervais St., 256-0043 Cool Beans! Coffee Co. $ B,L,D 1217 College St., 779-4277 No Name Deli $ L 2042 Marion St., 242-0480 FINE DINING Columbo’s $$ B,L,D, SBR 2100 Bush River Rd. (in the Radisson), 744-2200 Hampton Street Vineyard $$$ L,D 1201 Hampton St., 252-0850 Hennessy’s $$ L,D 1649 Main St., 799-8280 Motor Supply Co. Bistro $$ L,D 920 Gervais St., 256-6687 P.O.S.H. $$ B,L,D 1400 Main St. (at the Sheraton), 988-1400 Ristorante Divino $$$ D Voted Best Fine Dining Restaurant 803 Gervais St., 799-4550 ITALIAN Mellow Mushroom $ L,D 1009 Gervais St., 933-9201 Villa Tronco $$ L,D 1213 Blanding St., 256-7677 NATURAL/HEALTH Garden Bistro $ B,L 923 Gervais St., 933-9085 Nice-N-Natural $ L 1217 College St., 799-3471 SEAFOOD Blue Marlin $-$$ L,D Voted Best Seafood Restuarant 1200 Lincoln St., 799-3838 The Oyster Bar $-$$ D 1123 Park St., 799-4484

www.columbiametro.com

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 75

SOUTHERN 300 Senate at the Canal $-$$ L 300 Senate St., 748-8909 Lizard’s Thicket $ B,L,D Voted Best Bang for the Buck Voted Best Family Restaurant Voted Best Grits 818 Elmwood Ave., 779-6407 STEAK Longhorn Steakhouse $-$$ L,D 902-A Gervais St., 254-5100 SUSHI Camon Japanese Restaurant $$$ D 1332 Assembly St., 254-5400 SakiTumi $$ L,D 807 Gervais St., 931-0700 WINGS Carolina Wings $ L,D 600 Gervais St., 256-8844 Wild Wing Cafe $ L,D 729 Lady St., 252-9464

FIVE POINTS & DEVINE STREET AMERICAN Goatfeather’s $-$$ D, SBR 2017 Devine St., 256-3325 Granville’s $-$$ L,D 2865 Devine St., 779-3277 Harper’s Restaurant $-$$ L,D 700 Harden St., 252-2222 Mr. Friendly’s $$-$$$ L,D 2001-A Greene St., 254-7828 Salty Nut $ L,D 2000-A Greene St., 256-4611 Yesterday’s $$ L,D 2030 Devine St., 799-0196 ASIAN Baan Sawan $$$ D 2135 Devine St., 252-8992 Egg Roll Chen $ L,D 715 Crowson Rd., 787-6820 DELI Adriana’s $ B,L,D 721 Saluda Ave., 799-7595 Andy’s Deli $ L,D 2005 Greene St., 799-2639

76 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

DiPrato’s $ L,D, SBR Voted Best Sunday Brunch 342 Pickens St., 779-0606 The Gourmet Shop $ B,L 724 Saluda Ave., 799-3705 Groucho’s Deli $ L,D Voted Best Sandwich 611 Harden St., 799-5708 FINE DINING Dianne’s on Devine $$$ D Voted Best Wait Staff 2400 Devine St., 254-3535 GERMAN Julia’s German Stammtisch $$ L,D 4341 Ft. Jackson Blvd., 738-0630 GREEK Devine Foods $ L,D 2702 Devine St., 252-0356 INDIAN India Pavilion $ L,D 2011 Devine St., 252-4355 IRISH Delaney’s $ L,D 741 Saluda Ave., 779-2345 ITALIAN Garibaldi’s $$$ D Voted Best Restaurant in Columbia 2013 Greene St., 771-8888 MEXICAN El Burrito $ L,D 934 Harden St., 765-2188 Eric’s San Jose $ L,D Voted Best Mexican Restaurant 6118 Garners Ferry Rd., 783-6650 NATURAL/HEALTH Mediterranean Tea Room $ L,D 2601 Devine St., 799-3118 PIZZA LaBrasca $ L,D 4365 Jackson Blvd., 782-1098 Village Idiot $ L,D 2009 Devine St., 252-8646 Za’s Brick Oven Pizza $ L,D Voted Best Pizza 2930 Devine St., 771-7334 SOUTHERN Lizard’s Thicket $ B,L,D Voted Best Bang for the Buck Voted Best Family Restaurant

Voted Best Grits 7938 Garners Ferry Rd., 647-0095 SUSHI Saky $-$$ D 4963 Jackson Blvd., 787-5307 Sushi Yoshi $ D 2019 Devine St., 931-0555

NORTHEAST AMERICAN 5 Guys Famous Burgers & Fries $ L,D Voted Best French Fries 460-2 Town Center Place, 788-6200 Solstice Kitchen & Wine Bar $$$ D Voted Best Restaurant in Northeast 841-4 Sparkleberry Ln., 788-6966 Village Bistro $$ L,D,SBR 498-1 Town Center Place, 227-2710 DELI Groucho’s Deli $ L,D Voted Best Sandwich • 111 Sparkleberry Ln., 419-6767 • 730 University Village Dr., 754-4509 Tiffany’s Bakery & Eatery $ B,L Voted Best Bakery 8502 E Two Notch Rd., 736-CAKE FINE DINING Arizona’s $$$ L,D 150 Forum Dr., 865-1001 GREEK Zorba’s $ L,D Voted Best Greek Restaurant 2628 Decker Blvd., 736-5200 ITALIAN Travinia Italian Kitchen $$ L,D 101 Sparkleberry Crossing Rd., 419-9313 MEXICAN Hola Mexico $ L,D 10014 C Two Notch Rd., 865-7758 San Jose $ L,D • 801 Sparkleberry Ln., 419-8861

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

• 420 McNulty St. #C, 735-9787 • 808 Highway 1S, 438-2133 SEAFOOD Blue Fin $$ L,D,SBR 461-4 Town Center Place, 865-7346 SOUTHERN Lizard’s Thicket $ B,L,D Voted Best Bang for the Buck Voted Best Family Restaurant Voted Best Grits • 7620 Two Notch Rd., 788-3088 • 10170 Two Notch Rd., 419-5662 Mint Julep $-$$ D 120 Sparkleberry Crossing Dr., 419-7200 STEAK Longhorn Steakhouse $-$$ L,D 2760 Decker Blvd., 736-7464 Steak Carolina $-$$ L (Sat only), D 5 Lake Carolina Way, Ste 170, 661-6424 WINGS Carolina Wings $ L,D 2000-18 Clemson Rd., 419-0022 D’s Restaurant $ L,D Voted Best Wings 111 Sparkleberry Crossing, 462-1895

www.columbiametro.com

IRMO

GREEK Zorba’s $ L, D Voted Best Greek Restaurant 6169 St. Andrews Rd, 772-4617

AMERICAN Sticky Fingers $-$$ L,D 380 Columbiana Dr., 781-7427

ITALIAN Alodia’s Cucina Italian $-$$ L,D 2736 N. Lake Dr., 781-9814

ASIAN Miyo’s at Columbiana Place $$ L,D Voted Best Chinese Restaurant 1220 E-2 Bower Pkwy., 781-7788

INDIAN Delhi Palace $ L,D 1029 Briargate Cir., 750-0866

Wild Wing Cafe $ L,D 480-2 Town Center Place, 865-3365

PIZZA Custom Pizza Company $$ L,D 6801-3 St. Andrews Rd., 781-6004 Bonefish Grill $$-$$$ D 1260 Bower Pkwy., 407-1599 Catch 22 $$ L,D 1085 D Lake Murray Blvd., 781-9916

Miyabi Kyoto $$ L (Sun only),D Columbiana Centre, Harbison Blvd., 407-0574

MEDITERRANEAN Al-Amir $$ L,D Voted Best Restaurant in Irmo 7001 St. Andrews Rd., 732-0522

SOUTHERN Lizard’s Thicket $ B,L,D Voted Best Bang for the Buck Voted Best Family Restaurant Voted Best Grits • 7569 St. Andrews Road, 732-1225 • 1824 Broad River Rd., 798-6427

Thai Lotus Restaurant $ L,D Voted Best Thai Restaurant 612 St. Andrews Rd., 561-0006

MEXICAN El Chico Restaurant $-$$ L,D 1728 Bush River Rd., 772-0770

STEAK Longhorn Steakhouse $-$$ L,D 171 Harbison Blvd., 732-2482

DELI Groucho’s Deli $ L,D Voted Best Sandwich • 800 Lake Murray Blvd., 749-4515 • 2009 Broad River Rd., 750-3188 FONDUE The Melting Pot $$$ D Voted Best Romantic Dinner 1410 Colonial Life Blvd., 731-8500

Little Mexico $ L,D 6164 St. Andrews Rd., 798-6045 San Jose $ L,D • 1000 Marina Rd., 749-9484 • 498 Piney Grove Rd., 750-3611 NATURAL/HEALTH Sun Ming Chinese Restaurant $ L,D 7509 St. Andrews Rd., 732-4488

Wild Wing Cafe $ L,D 1150 Bower Parkway, 749-9464 Wings & Ale $ L,D 125-C Outlet Pointe Blvd., 750-1700

LEXINGTON BARBECUE Hudson’s Smokehouse $ L,D Voted Best Barbecue Voted Best Ribs 4952 Sunset Blvd., 356-1070 DELI Cafe 403 $ L 403 N. Lake Dr., 808-2992 Groucho’s Deli $ L,D Voted Best Sandwich 117 1/2 East Main St., 356-8800

SUSHI Inakaya $-$$ L,D Voted Best Sushi Restaurant 655-C St. Andrews Rd., 731-2538

FINE DINING Lexington Arms $$ D 314A West Main St., 359-2700

WINGS Carolina Wings $ L,D 7587 St. Andrews Rd., 781-0084

ITALIAN Travinia Italian Kitchen $$ L,D Voted Best Restaurant in Lexington 5074 Sunset Blvd., 957-2422

D’s Restaurant $ L,D Voted Best Wings 285 Columbiana Dr., 227-0238

C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N 77

MEXICAN Eric’s San Jose $ L,D Voted Best Mexican Restaurant 604 Columbia Ave. 957-9443 San Jose $ L,D 4510 Augusta Rd., 957-5171 SOUTHERN Lizard’s Thicket $ B,L,D Voted Best Bang for the Buck Voted Best Family Restaurant Voted Best Grits 621 West Main St., 951-3555 WINGS Buffalo’s Café $ L,D 5464 Sunset Blvd., 808-6001 Carolina Wings $ L,D 105 North Pointe Dr., 356-6244 CAYCE & WEST COLUMBIA AMERICAN New Orleans Riverfront $$ L,D Voted Best Outdoor Dining 121 Alexander Rd., 794-5112

WINGS Carolina Wings $ L,D 2347-C Augusta Rd., 791-0260 D’s Wings $ L,D 920 Axtell Dr., 791-4486

FOREST ACRES AMERICAN Tombo Grille $$ D 4517 Forest Dr., 782-9665 ASIAN Miyo’s on Forest $$ L,D Voted Best Chinese Restaurant 3250 Forest Dr., Suite B, 743-9996 Sakura $-$$ L,D 20 Forest Lake Shopping Center, 738-9330 Sato $$ D 1999 Beltline Blvd., 782-1064 DELI Groucho’s Deli $ L,D Voted Best Sandwich 4717 Forest Dr., 790-0801

COFFEE/DESSERT Café Strudel $ B,L 118 State St., 794-6634

Hooligan’s $ L,D 26 Trenholm Plaza, 782-1293

DELI House Coffee $ B,L,D 116 State St., 791-5663

Hooligan’s $ L,D 26 Trenholm Plaza, 782-1293

FINE DINING Al’s Upstairs $$$ D Voted Best Italian Restaurant 300 Meeting St., 794-7404

McAlister’s Deli $ L,D 4710-A Forest Dr., 790-5995

Terra $$ D 100 State St., 791-3443 GREEK Grecian Gardens $$ L,D 2312 Sunset Blvd., 794-7552 Nick’s $$ L,D 1082 Sunset Blvd., 794-9240 SOUTHERN Lizard’s Thicket $ B,L,D Voted Best Bang for the Buck Voted Best Family Restaurant Voted Best Grits • 2240 Airport Blvd., 796-7820 • 501 Knox Abbott Dr., 791-0314 • 2234 Sunset Blvd., 794-0923

ITALIAN Pasta Fresca $$ D 3405 Forest Dr., 787-1838 Rosso $$ D 4840 Forest Dr., 787-3949 MEXICAN Casa Linda $ L,D 2009 Beltline Blvd., 738-0420 San Jose $ L,D 4722 Forest Dr., 462-7184 NATURAL/HEALTH Zoe’s $ L,D Voted Best New Restaurant 4855 Forest Dr., 782-1212 PIZZA Village Idiot $ L, D 4515 Forest Dr, 787-5005 SEAFOOD Bonefish Grill $$-$$$ D 4708 Forest Dr., 787-6200 SOUTHERN

Lizard’s Thicket $ B,L,D Voted Best Bang for the Buck Voted Best Family Restaurant Voted Best Grits • 402 Beltline Blvd., 738-0006 • 3147 Forest Dr., 787-8781 WINGS D’s Restaurant $ L,D Voted Best Wings 2005 Beltline Blvd., 787-2595

ROSEWOOD AMERICAN Rockaway Athletic Club $ L, D Voted Best Hamburger 2719 Rosewood Dr., 256-1075 DELI The Deli at Rosewood Market $-$$ L,D,SBR 2803 Rosewood Dr., 256-6410 ITALIAN Moe’s Grapevine $$ L,D 4478 Rosewood Dr., 776-8463 PIZZA Dano’s $ L,D 2800 Rosewood Dr., 254-3266 Pizza Man $ L,D 341 S Woodrow St., 252-6931

REMBERT FINE DINING Boykins at the Mill Pond $$$ D 84 Boykin Mill Rd., (803) 425-8825 Lilfreds of Rembert $$$ D 8425 Camden Hwy., (803) 432-7063

CHAPIN FINE DINING Mark’s $$-$$$ L,D,SBR 2371 Dutch Fork Rd., 781-2807 SEAFOOD Rusty Anchor $$-$$$ D Voted Best Lakeside Restaurant 1925 Johnson Marina Rd., 749-1555

Visit www.columbiametro.com for an extended listing.

78 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009

Kristin McCaskill and Steve Hayes

W W W. M I C H A E L K O S K A . C O M

W W W. B A R B E R P H O T O . C O M

W W W. B A R B E R P H O T O . C O M

JUST MARRIED

MeeNa Ruffin and Israel Stone, Jr.

Jessica Cuaresma and Josh Todd

PICTURE THIS Cloud Nine Market Fundraiser benefitting Palmetto Health Foundation

Lynn Hazel, Anna Saunders, Joan Creed, Chris LaTorre, Chantsie LaTorre

Javana Lovett, Gail Branham

Katherine Davis, Andrew Cain, Latan Cox

Bren Miller, Elaine Clary, Amy Coward

Central Carolina Community Foundation 25th Anniversary Celebration

Cameron Todd, Betty Todd

Helen Taylor, Sally Nash Wilson, Betty Todd, Elizabeth Todd Heckel

Donna Rone, Curt Rone, Claire Fort

Hagood Tighe, Tina Kelley, Elizabeth Tighe, Andy Witt

William Hubbard, Kappy Hubbard, Mike Kelly

(front) Rania Jamison, Corliss Eubanks, Anita Garrett, Tiffany Rushton, (back) Reggie Alexander, Carolyn Fitts, Tim VanDenBerg, Charles Weathers

(front) Tiffany Knowlin, Ellen Parker, Tracey Ely, Pat Van Put, (back) Wiley Cooper, Julian Van Put

Shannon Nord, Ethan Nord

Louise Slater, JoAnn Turnquist, Ernie Csiszar, Mary Katherine Marshall

Mary Belser, Clinch Belser, Guy Lipscomb, Marshall Foster, Georgia Cheek

Helen Fant, Georgia Cheek, George Fant

OUT & ABOUT

november Belk, www.belk.com Nov. 7 Belk Fall Charity Sale, 6 to 10am

Colonial Life Arena, 576-9200 Nov. 28 Miley Cyrus, 7pm Nov. 29 Trans-Siberian Orchestra Winter Tour 2009, 3 and 7:30pm Columbia Gem and Mineral Society, 736-9317 Nov. 27 to 29 42nd Annual Gem, Mineral and Jewelry Show, SC State Museum Columbia Museum of Art, 799-2810 through Jan. 17 Exhibit - Ansel Adams: Masterworks from the Collection of the Turtle Bay Exploration Center through Jan. 17 Exhibit - Larry Clark: Tulsa through Jan. 17 Exhibit - From Behind the Lens Nov. 3 Baker and Baker Foundation presents Art of Music: High Lonesome Bluegrass Band American Images in Sound, 7pm Nov. 4 Wee Wednesdays - The Places You’ll Go!, 10 to 11am Nov. 6 Columbia Design League Lecture - Dutch Poster Design: 100 Years of Innovation, 6pm Nov. 7 Ansel Adams Lecture and Book Signing by Mary Street Alinder, 1pm Nov. 8 Forest Acres Family Day, noon to 4pm Nov. 8 Film - George Eastman House: Picture Perfect, 1pm Nov. 12 Ladies Night Out, 6 to 8pm Nov. 13 & 20 One Room Schoolhouse - Iconic Images Nov. 13 & 22 Film - American Experience: Ansel Adams Nov. 14 Art School - Picture Perfect: Photography 101, 10am to 2pm Nov. 15 Museum Shop Artisans’ Fair and Sale, noon to 3pm Nov. 17 Evolution - 21st Century Songbook, 7pm Nov. 20 Art School - Basic Photography in a Day, 10am to 2pm EdVenture Children’s Museum, 779-3100 through Jan. 3 Team UP! Explore the Science of Sports Nov. 5 Great Friend to Kids Nov. 7 Big Wheels! - Machines in Motion Nov. 7 & 8 “Museums on Us” Free Weekend Nov. 10 Family Night, 5 to 8pm Nov. 15 Tales for Tots Nov. 21 ”Snowville” opens Nov. 28 “Play It!” Saturdays Family Connection of South Carolina, (843) 556-5010 Nov. 20 & 21 3rd Annual Cocky ‘n Tiger Tailgate, Columbia Armory

Greater Chapin Chamber of Commerce, 345-1100 Nov. 5 to 8 21st Annual Holiday Open House Koger Center, 777-7500 Nov. 2 USC Wind Ensemble, 7:30pm Nov. 3 Willie Nelson, 7:30pm Nov. 6 & 7 USC Dance presents American at Heart, 7:30pm Nov. 10 Chamber Theatre Company presents Encore, 10:30am Nov. 12 SC Philharmonic Master Series 3, 7:30pm Nov. 13 SC HIV/AIDS Council presents Frankie Beverly & Maze, 8pm Nov. 15 SC Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, 3pm Nov. 17 USC Symphony Orchestra with Haim Avitsur, 7:30pm Nov. 22 Palmetto Concert Band, 4pm Nov. 27 & 29 Carolina Ballet presents The Nutcracker Newberry Opera House, (803) 276-6264 Nov. 1 Newberry Opera House Guild Oyster Roast Nov. 4 American Revival, 8pm Nov. 6 The Four Freshman, 8pm Nov. 7 Eddie Miles, 8pm Nov. 8 Maurice Williams, 7pm Nov. 10 The King’s Singers, 8pm Nov. 11 GRITS-The Musical, 3 and 8pm Nov. 12 USC Flute Concert, 8pm Nov. 13 Nanci Griffith, 8pm Nov. 15 Jonathan Edwards, 3pm Nov. 17 JIGU! Thunder Drums of China, 8pm Nov. 19 Edwin McCain, 8pm Nov. 21 Robert Earl Keen, 8pm Nov. 22 Robert Jesselson, 3pm Nickelodeon, 254-8234 through Nov. 3 Beeswax Nov. 10 Herb & Dorothy, 6pm Nov. 21 The Rescuers, 10am Palmetto Mastersingers, 765-0777 Nov. 11 Veterans Day Celebration, Lexington Town Hall, 3pm Riverbanks Zoo, 779-8717 Nov. 21 to Jan. 3 The Lights Before Christmas St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, 732-2273 Nov. 21 Palmetto Artist Series: Keith and Kristyn Getty, 7:30pm Sandhill Research and Education Center, 788-5700 Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24 Sandhill Farmers Market, 2:30 to 7pm SC State Museum, 898-4921 through March 7 Exhibit - Art from The Lonely Shadow Nov. 1 Museum and a Movie - Walking with Dinosaurs: Allosaurus Springdale Race Course, (803) 432-6513 Nov. 21 Colonial Cup

80 C O L U M B I A M E T R O P O L I T A N

Town Theatre, 799-2510 Nov. 6 to 21 Moon Over Buffalo Trinity Cathedral, 771-7300 Nov. 21 61st Annual Trinity Bazaar, 10am to 2pm Trustus, 254-9732 through Nov. 14 Extremities USC Department of Theatre and Dance, 777-4288 Nov. 13 to 22 Radium Girls, Longstreet Theatre Vista Guild, 269-5946 Nov. 19 24th Annual Vista Lights, 5 to 10pm Workshop Theatre, 799-4876 Nov. 6 to 21 Same Time, Next Year

december

Chapin Community Theatre, 345-6181 Dec. 3 to 19 Christmas Belles Colonial Life Arena, 576-9200 Dec. 6 Radio City Christmas Spectacular with The Rockettes, 5pm Columbia Community Concert Band, cccb.bandlink.org Dec. 4 Holiday Concert, Lexington Baptist Church, 7:30pm Columbia Museum of Art, 799-2810 Dec. 1 Tour & Tasting - Ansel Adams: Masterworks, 6:30 to 8:30pm Dec. 2 Wee Wednesdays - Glorious Glass!, 10 to 11am Dec. 9 Wadsworth & Friends Concert Series with Edward Arron, 7pm Dec. 11 One Room Schoolhouse - On the Surface Dec. 13 Passport to Art, 12:30 to 4:30pm Columbia Music Festival Association, 771-6303 Dec. 12 to 13 Vibrations, CMFA ArtSpace, 7:30 and 8:30pm EdVenture Children’s Museum, 779-3100 Dec. 13 Tales for Tots Dec. 26 “Play It!” Saturdays First Baptist Church of Columbia, 217-3250 Dec. 10 to 13 22nd Annual Columbia Christmas Pageant Junior League of Columbia, 252-4552 Dec. 3 to 6 Holiday Market, AmericraftCantey Building, SC State Fairgrounds

Dec. 9 to 11 & 16 to 18 Columbia City Ballet presents Frosty Dec. 11 to 13, 18 to 20 Columbia City Ballet presents The Nutcracker Lexington County Choral Society, 359-8794 Dec. 15 “The Joy of Christmas,” Saxe Gotha Presbyterian Church, 7:30pm Newberry Opera House, (803) 276-6264 Dec. 3 Percy Sledge, 8pm Dec. 5 Jerry Douglas, John Oates and Maura O’Connell, 8pm Dec. 6 Camelot, 3 and 8pm Dec. 8 The Flamingos featuring Terry Johnson, 8pm Dec. 9 282nd Army Band, 8pm Dec. 10 Emile Pandolfi, 8pm Dec. 11 The Happiest Holiday Chorus Line of Broadway, 3 and 8pm Dec. 12 Harley Davidson Toy Run Dec. 12 208th Charlotte Army Band, 8pm Dec. 13 B.J. Thomas, 3 and 8pm Dec. 14 Sigmund Romberg Orchestra presents A Viennese Christmas, 3 & 8pm Dec. 17 Rocky Fretz, 8pm Dec. 20 The Lettermen, 3 and 8pm Dec. 31 Big Band New Years Eve, 8pm Nickelodeon, 254-8234 Dec. 5 The Neverending Story, 10am Palmetto Mastersingers, 765-0777 Dec. 4 Christmas Concert, Newberry Opera House, 8pm Dec. 10 Christmas Concert, Koger Center, 7:30pm Dec. 11 Concert, Glenforest School, 7pm Dec. 17 Union County Arts St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, 732-2273 Dec. 12 & 13 Palmetto Artist Series: “The Many Moods of Christmas,” 6pm Sandlapper Singers, 381-5481 Dec. 18 “American Graces Christmas Concert,” Dreher High School Auditorium, 7:30pm Shandon/Hollywood/Rose Hill Tour of Homes, 253-8480 Dec. 6 Homes for the Holidays, 2 to 6pm SC State Museum, 898-4921 Dec. 12 to 31 Winter Fest Trustus, 254-9732 Dec. 4 to 13 & Jan. 7 to 23 Rent Village Square Theatre, 359-1436 Dec. 4 to 14 Miracle on 34th Street Workshop Theatre, 799-4876 Dec. 10 to 13 ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, S. Claus?

Koger Center, 777-7500 Dec. 1 SC Philharmonic Orchestra presents Jingle all the Way Dec. 4 to 6 Columbia Classical Ballet presents The Nutcracker

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2008