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contents Volume 21 Number 10 20
Features 46 Favorite Things Treasures Columbians hold dear By Deena C. Bouknight 49 Vacationing on a Budget Columbia families share tips for affordable trips By Deena C. Bouknight
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Departments Local Seen 12 Dogs that Teach Healing Species teaches violence prevention By Deena C. Bouknight
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Kid’s Corner Get Kids Reading This Summer Local librarians offer their expert advice By Rachel DiMaria
Home Style 20 A Long-Standing Relationship Michael and Dianna Arnold turn to Paul Sloan for design advice By Margaret Gregory
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28 Building on a Good Foundation Jenny Howard’s Shandon garden By Meredith Good
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contents 32 Making Life Sweeter One Cupcake at a Time By Susan Fuller Slack, CCP
Volume 21 Number 10
Palmetto Business 52 Columbia Navigates Good to Great Chamber initiative works to make Columbia a better place to live By Robin Cowie Nalepa 55 SCORE One for Business The mentors of SCORE propel entrepreneurs toward business success By Rosanne McDowell
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Carolina Community 66 Flying on a LARK Radio controlled airplanes take hobbyists to new heights By Sam Morton Special sections 71 topDentists™ in the Midlands advertising sections 42 Ask the Home Experts 61 Getting Down to Business 76 topDentists™ Profiles In every issue 6 From the Editor 8 City Scoop 40 New to the Neighborhood?
59 Spread the Word 87 Picture This 88 Just Married
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C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n 5
FROM THE EDITOR
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chool is out, the temperatures are rising, the days are longer … it’s June and summer is officially here! Now is the perfect time to start planning your vacation. Will you escape to the coast to soak up the sun while splashing in the ocean or head to the mountains to enjoy the cooler temperatures while breathing in that glorious mountain air? Are you looking to splurge on a dream vacation or save a few pennies and get a little creative? In this issue, writer Deena Bouknight interviews several local families who know how to vacation on a budget without sacrificing fun. From zip lining through the treetops to “glamping” in a yurt village, Deena tells how to do it all and gives great advice that will get you inspired to plan your perfect summer getaway. Deena contributes another article that may leave you lost in thought for a bit. In this issue, she interviews several Columbia residents and asks them this important question: “If you were faced with a house fire or a natural disaster and could grab only one thing, what would you save? Besides your family members and pets, of course, what is it that you hold dear?” I asked this question of myself and my family and found our answers to be quite enlightening. After much thought, I decided that I would grab my memento box that holds a lifetime of treasures – photos, letters, drawings from my children and various special items from my past. It would be heavy but worth the effort to me. My husband would take his guitar, which selfishly makes me happy because we would all get to benefit from his choice. My 7-year-old would take her bunny lovie that she has had since birth – it’s one of her best friends, after all. My 4-year-old originally said she would take chocolate (which makes perfect sense to me) but then thought a little harder and said she would take the bicycle that she just learned to ride without training wheels. What would you take? We challenge you to choose just one thing. Cupcakes are one of my favorite things. I might not choose to take one as my first choice if the house went up in flames, but it might come in as a close second. Really, has anyone ever met a cupcake they didn’t like? In this issue, Susan Slack gives us some fantastic recipes for all kinds of cupcakes. From the simple to the complex, she provides something to suit everyone’s tastes. Caramel Apple, Coconut Snowballs, White Chocolate Lemon … are you drooling yet? I personally can’t wait to bake the Peanut Butter Cups. Chocolate cupcakes with a soft peanut butter center topped with a peanut butter cup. Sounds delectable! Enjoy your summer and enjoy this issue of Columbia Metropolitan. As always, thanks for reading – we feel your support and interest every day.
Publisher
Henry Clay e d i to r
Emily Tinch A SSO C I ATE EDITOR e d i to r i a l A rt D i r e c to r
Robyn Culbertson a d v e rt i s i n g A rt D i r e c to r
Dennis Craighead Design SENIOR A DVERTISING E X E C UTIVE
Shawn Coward A DVERTISING s a l e s
Emily Clay, Margaret Clay production manager
Nancy Lambert INTERN s
Ravenel Godbold, Sallie Gregory, Lara Leitner, Allyson Seitzer contributing writers
Deena Bouknight, Rachel DiMaria, Meredith Good, Margaret Gregory, Rosanne McDowell, Sam Morton, Robin Nalepa, Susan Slack P h o to g r ap h y
Jeff Amberg, Jennifer Covington, Robert Clark, 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 2011. 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
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About the cover: Melissa Bird’s favorite possession is the lollipop stool from her grandfather’s bank in Aiken. Photography by Jeff Amberg
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city scoop
Bride and Groom ‘Vow’ to Get Bald to Support Childhood Cancer Research By Sallie Gregory
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typical bride-to-be spends most of her time dreaming of the perfect wedding: the cake, the flowers and, of course, the dress. But for one Columbia woman, giving back to others is the first thing on her mind. On May 9, Angela Phillips, 27, married Timothy Butterfield, 30, while on a getaway cruise. Then, on May 28, the couple hosted their formal wedding reception in Columbia, where they proudly shaved their heads for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation. Tim and Angela were the first couple to shave their heads during their wedding reception to help raise funds and awareness for childhood cancer research. St. Baldrick’s is a non-profit
organization that raises funds for childhood cancer research by hosting worldwide head-shaving events where volunteers shave their heads in solidarity with kids who typically lose their hair during treatments. Angela shaved her head at an event in 2009, and she wanted to do more this year. She decided that shaving her head at her wedding reception would make an impact. The couple asked their friends and family to participate as well. In lieu of gifts the couple asked for donations to the St. Baldrick’s Foundation. For more information on St. Baldrick’s and their mission, visit their website at www.stbaldricks.org.
Southeastern Piano Festival at the University of South Carolina By Sallie Gregory
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he Southeastern Piano Festival will be held at the University of South Carolina June 12 to 18. The festival attracts students from throughout the country to study with top pianists who will give public performances. A select group of pianists in grades eight through 12 will have a multitude of performing opportunities, daily lessons with USC piano faculty, master classes and conversations with distinguished guest artists, and presentations on a wide variety of piano-related topics. The students also take part in the Arthur-Fraser International Concerto Competition, with the winners performing with the S.C. Philharmonic. The festival was founded in the summer of 2003 by pianist and music school faculty member Marina Lamozov, who is the director of the festival. Since its inception it has become a major cultural event and a top destination for young piano talent in the US and abroad. Admission to the concerts is typically $20 (some exceptions apply); $10 for seniors and Music Teachers
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National Association Members; $5 for students; and free to everyone under 18. Many of the sessions with students are free and open to the public. To purchase tickets, contact the School of Music at (803) 576-5763 or frontoffice@mozard.sc.edu. For more details, visit http://sepf.music.sc.edu.
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city scoop
20th Annual George Rogers Celebrity Weekend By Sallie Gregory
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he George Rogers Foundation will host its 20th Annual George Rogers Celebrity Weekend June 26 and 27. A VIP event kicks off the festivities June 26 followed by a celebrity reception Sunday night at The Zone at WilliamsBrice Stadium. The evening will feature a live and silent auction of valuable autographed memorabilia, as well as many other unique items. The weekend’s highlight is the George Rogers Celebrity Golf To u r n a m e n t a t Fort Jackson Golf Club on Monday, June 27. The tournament is a captain’s
choice format with each team having a celebrity player. The celebrities consists of former Heisman Trophy winners as well as other known sports figures from around the area. Tony Dorsett, Steve Spurrier, Geno Torretta, Mike Rozier and NFL great Ricky Jackson are just some of the celebrities who are schedule to play. The Foundation was started in 1991 and has grown into an organization that has provided over $100,000 in financial support to students seeking post-secondary education, as well as support to other area nonprofit organizations. Proceeds from the auctions and golf tournament will enable the Foundation to increase awards and contributions from year to year. The primary funding for the George Rogers Foundation comes from private donors as well as businesses and individuals. For additional information, call Spencer V. Clark at (803) 201-0534 or Christina Pinder at (803) 553-5251, or visit www.georgerogersfoundation.org.
SCCADVASA Celebrates 30 Years of Advocacy
By Sallie Gregory
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he South Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (SCCADVASA) will celebrate 30 years of advocacy by teaming up with South Carolina’s leading coaches to celebrate Victory over Violence. The event will take place at The Zone at WilliamsBrice Stadium on Thursday, June 9 from 6 to 9 p.m. Coaches Dabo Swinney of Clemson University, Steve Spurrier of University of South Carolina and Buddy Pough of South Carolina State will be featured speakers. Coach Swinney will be a compelling keynote speaker as he shares his own personal experience with domestic violence. In 2011 South Carolina ranked number nine in the nation for the number of women killed by men. SCCADVASA represents the 23 programs across the state providing safety, comfort and counsel to the victims of both domestic violence and rape. SCCADVASA is and has been dedicated to the elimination of these crimes for more than 30 years. Tickets to Victory over Violence will cost $50 each ($30 each for member programs and students). The celebration will include heavy hors d’ouevres, libations and desserts by Blue Marlin Signature Catering. There will be a silent auction
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featuring sports memorabilia and exclusively signed footballs by the coaches. To buy tickets or for more information, visit www.sccadvasa.org or call (803) 256-2900.
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local seen
A student at Sheridan Elementary in Orangeburg with Chelsey, a Healing Species therapy dog
Dogs That Teach Healing Species teaches violence prevention By Deena C. Bouknight / Photography Courtesy of Healing Species
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ou can teach an old dog new tricks. You can also train an abused dog to “teach” abused and neglected children. Healing Species is proof positive. Founded by Orangeburg-native Cheri Brown Thompson, Healing Species was born out of her discovery –
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as a new attorney in the late 1990s – that there was a link between violence toward animals and violent crime in society. She gave up practicing law to write the first-ever animal-assisted violenceprevention curriculum to be endorsed by a state board of education. The curriculum works this way: someone from the organization’s trained professional staff of nine takes rescued dogs into classrooms once a week for 11 to 13 weeks to teach students lessons in compassion, healing, empowerment and respect. While interacting with the dogs on a variety of levels, students might learn their value, how to trust and how to consider the feelings of others, as well as necessary life skills. “These formerly abused, neglected dogs bring the lesson’s principles and illustrations to life,” says Adele Little, director and lead instructor at Healing Species. “For instance, we talk about the three steps to Keeping Your Heart in the first lesson. As we hold up a bowl of water poured for our canine assistant, we ask: ‘Does giving water to Gravey count as giving love? Does petting her count as giving love? Yes! You matter to others and each little thing you do for animals and people makes you stronger.’” She adds, “The dogs have a way of reaching a child’s heart and mind that humans do not have. If the class gets too loud and rowdy, we can instantly help the students connect the reason for being quiet to empathy. We would say, for example: ‘Remember, Gravey’s ears are 1,000 times more sensitive than ours and it hurts her ears when we are loud. Do you see how she came over to the corner? Let’s keep it down!’ And they do!” Barbara Martin, on staff at Eau Claire High School, explained in a recent letter to Healing Species the effect the dogs have on children at her school: “The combination of constant access to loving, affectionate dogs while interacting in lessons that introduce students to the concepts of selflessness, self-awareness and self-control is a perfect pairing for our population,” she writes. “Over the years, we have seen our toughest, most emotionally detached students eventually melt while stroking
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your wonderful, furry co-workers.” After implementing the program in one school, one of the Healing Species workers received a hand-written note from a student. It read: “Thank u for all you have done for me. Please keep this wonder job u have because I know there is someone waiting on you to save another living soul just like you did to me.” This past fall, when a boy acted out so much he turned his desk over and
had to be put into an adjacent room, Amber, a yellow Labrador retriever mix began pulling on her leash until she was allowed to go into the room to the boy. He was crying and screaming, but when the she walked into the room and up to him, he stopped and put his arms around her. “It was amazing,” s ays Adele. “Amber had done what none of the adults present had been able to do. She
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calmed down a very upset little boy.” Says Cheri, “The program empowers children living in abusive situations to learn their appropriate and safe rights and how to locate help if help is needed. They also go on to become a voice for others who are voiceless: a sibling, a friend or an animal.” According to Adele, the organization acts as caretakers or “guardians” – as Cheri likes to refer to their role – to approximately 14 dogs who assist in teaching students in South Carolina classrooms. So far, more than 11,000 students have learned the principles and lessons of the program since Healing Species’ inception in 2000. The organization has garnered state and national attention, and in 2007, Cheri won Traditional Home Magazine’s “Classic Women Award” for women who make a difference. Even though Healing Species was founded in South Carolina and primarily serves schools in South Carolina, it is growing to include four active satellite chapters in other states and even in New Zealand. The ultimate goal is to make the program available in every school district across the United States. “ Ou r m o s t e x c r u c i a t i n g w o r k , ” says Cheri, “is deciding each year what school receives our program, and which schools we cut out due to funding. I personally work for no pay. But to run the corporation professionally, I need professionals who need to work and want to work.” The standard fee for the program is approximately $12,000 per semester per school for up to 250 students (or 12 classes). This fee covers the program, the instructors, the curriculum materials, travel expenses, dog care and office expenses. Many schools pull funding for Healing Species from a variety of resources, including federal funding, Parent-Teacher Associations and corporate grants. Healing Species will assist in grant-writing and securing funds. Instructors are college graduates trained through shadowing, team teaching and observing. Some of the instructors have backgrounds in social work or teaching, but Cheri points out that some instructors just
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A student at Gilbert Elementary School with Turbo, a Healing Species therapy dog
naturally have a bent toward teaching and interacting with children and animals. Healing Species also works outside the classroom. This spring, in fact, dogs were taken to Gonzales Gardens, a housing project in Columbia, to work with children in order to help them overcome violence, bullying, neglect, abuse, crime and anger. “Through the use of rehabilitated dogs, Healing Species ministered to the hearts of some of our hurting children,” says Michelle James, director of Prosperity Project, a tutoring and mentoring ministry in Gonzales Gardens. Cheri, who along with her husband adopted two brothers she met while teaching Healing Species in their school, has a heart for children and animals. “My greatest reward is seeing children of any socio-economic level understand that they matter ... that they have something to contribute, and that someone sees them and cares.” For more information about Healing Species, or to make donations from an individual or corporate level, visit www.healingspecies.org.
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kid’s corner
Get Your Kids Reading This Summer 16 C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n
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Local librarians offer their expert advice By Rachel DiMaria / Photography by Jeff Amberg
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(L to R) Eliza, 4, Emma, 2, and Allison Reynolds, 6 1/2, love to read and spend time with their grandmother, Sue Hodges, in the children’s room of the Richland County Public Library.
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t’s an all too common scene, the showdown about cracking the books. You want your kids to read, and they just want to have fun. “Books ARE fun,” you repeat, over and over. And when summer hits, the battle rages even hotter. Why would your kids want to read books when they can play the latest Wii games, or watch a perfectly good movie, or play with their friends in the sprinkler outside? Let’s face it, anything that makes your kids sit slack jawed, spaced out, with brains turned off will not lead to the development of people skills, trade knowledge or college scholarships. Being good readers keeps the doors to future opportunities open to them. Now, in all things there should be a balance, and such is the case between good clean fun and bridging the gap to fluent literacy. For a person to be a fluent reader, it takes practice, and the more fun you can make the practice, the more likely your children are to be life-long readers. The real question is this: how do we get our children to view reading as synonymous with fun? This writer has worked as a children’s librarian and taught school for 12 years, where she learned a few tricks to getting reluctant readers diving into books. She and Leslie Tetreault, Children’s Room Manager at the Richland County Public Library, share their expert advice on how to inspire kids to read. Audio Books Yes, audio books with book companions. No matter their ages, all children love a good story. Stories are the stuff of life. They swirl around us, making our experiences richer. Listening to and reading text simultaneously allows kids to hear talented storytellers; affords them the opportunity to read
above their grade levels; models fluent reading; teaches listening skills; calls attention to emotions in the text; and introduces new genres, vocabulary, difficult pronunciations, unfamiliar dialects (Hello, Shakespeare!) and topics of discussion for parents and children who listen together. Reading List, Smeading List! Like hemlines and heels, books come in and out of vogue. Children’s literature is a huge industry bursting with new adventures, fantasy, historical fiction and information every week. Your kids don’t need to make book selections based on the same list you had when you were young. Nancy Drew and Hardy Boys are great, but why not try the new graphic novel counterparts? RCPL Rocks! Visit your local public library. The staff is well read, keeps up with the latest trends in book publishing and knows the best books for children and teens. They are there to help parents select books and encourage reading to their young children, as well as to assist older children and teens in finding books they will love. Take advantage of their knowledge and expertise. They are there to help. Modeling Children live what they learn. If they see their parents and other adults reading books, newspapers and magazines, they will want to do it too. Bond with your kids over a good book. Make reading an after dinner activity where you read a story everyone selects together. Oh Baby! Do not insist that your baby/toddler/preschooler listens to an entire story in one sitting. Even one minute of reading at a time is worthwhile. Young children are active, and it is not unusual for them to walk around while you are reading aloud.
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Stick to short stories and concept books and know there is value in even the shortest of moments. Rewards Many children are goal oriented, and treats, Target cards and Monkey Joe’s day trips are some great ways to say, “Well done!” Kids need to hear praise and feel proud of their accomplishments. Think about how rewards and positive words can encourage your children to read more. Time and Punishment Setting an environment conducive to learning is essential. There should be a supply of books coupled with quiet places where your children can cuddle up and read. Time to read is a crucial element, but it should never feel like punishment. Reading should be a joy, and the words, “Go to your room and read now,” might sound like torture to some children. If they aren’t fast, successful readers, the words on the page may not form a fluid movie within the confines of their brains, making time in their rooms seem like anguish. Let your children read wherever they feel comfortable. Just make sure they focus on their books. The Glory of the Story Think about it: plays, musicals, television shows, magazines, comic strips, poems and movies all originate with the written word. Children need useful skills and can benefit from knowing the value of text. So if your kids really want to watch “Hannah Montana,” try muting the television so they must read the captions. Or perhaps your child loves wildlife and wants to be a veterinarian; try subscribing to Zoobooks magazine for her to read. Freedom Give your children the freedom to put books down if they are not enjoying them. Adults do this all the time, but children are taught they must finish any book they begin. Not true. To turn children on to reading, we must give them the freedom not only to select their own books for pleasure reading, but also to close the books they are not enjoying. Leslie always says, “Try the first chapter, or 30 pages, or read for 15 minutes. If you are not enjoying it, put it down.” There are too many wonderful books for them to waste time on ones they don’t enjoy.
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Home style
A Long-Standing Relationship Michael and Dianna Arnold turn to Paul Sloan for design advice By Margaret Gregory / Photography by Robert Clark
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(Left) Michael and Dianna Arnold’s living room features a sectional sofa of crocodile print embossed leather with a granite coffee table. (Below) Arched double front doors lead to the Arnolds’ foyer, which exudes contemporary elegance.
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hey say that you just know when you find the right wedding gown, the right house, even the right mate. It must be the same with interior designers, at least for Michael and Dianna Arnold. Michael once turned to Paul Sloan to help with the interior design of a home he had purchased, and some 20 years later, he and his wife Dianna sought out Paul’s expertise for their new home.
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Dianna says Paul was the perfect person to join forces with to develop a design for their home, since he is wellknown for his use of brilliant color. “I’m a texture/color kind of girl,” she says, “and when Paul and I got together, there was a lot of electricity.” For Michael, working with Paul was about having someone else to rely on for expertise. “We’re subjective about our homes,” he says. “It’s about the person and not what the general public
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thinks, so it’s good to have someone to turn to who can help make your house attractive to the next person who may live in it. And sometimes it’s hard for a Southern male to see more than khakis, blues and greys!” Listening is also key for Michael and Dianna. “I like to do research before jumping into a project, and Paul listens to what I like,” Michael says. That ability to listen led Paul to incorporate some of Michael’s favorite furnishings
into the design scheme. Dianna concurs. “I told him what I wanted for my sofas, and the more color he added, the more I liked it,” she says. In fact, the Arnolds have used Paul’s expertise not just for their own home, but for those of family members as well, and even business projects. “My daughter’s house was on the market when the slump first hit,” Michael recalls. “Paul knew where it was important to spend money to help make
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(Left) The kitchen, which was designed by Ellen Taylor, has a large island with a granite top. (Below) The dining table can seat 12 comfortably and is set with lovely Versace place settings.
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the home more intriguing to potential buyers.” Because the Arnolds have grandchildren and pets, much thought was put into the appropriate types of fabrics to use. “You have to think about fabrics that will wear well. With children and pets, you need ones that are more durable,” Paul says. “Fortunately, Michael and Dianna are adventurous and willing to take chances with colors and fabrics.” Because Michael and Dianna collect artwork, both locally and from their travels, Paul used their art as a starting point for many of the color schemes in the house. “We try to only buy pieces we both love,” Michael says. “We also try to provide support to the local artists.” Among their pieces are several by Columbia artists Rob Shaw and Rick Wells. “It’s really all about
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(Above) Michael and Dianna Arnold (Left) One guest room features a silver crocodile print embossed headboard complemented by silk French knot bedding.
the feeling we get from a piece,� notes Dianna. The living room features a sectional sofa of crocodile print embossed leather with a granite coffee table. The large built-ins surrounding the black marble fireplace hold much of their glass art collection. A wet bar with matching black marble top is built in on the opposite wall and displays whimsical and colorful bar glasses.
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Light streams into the room from the arched double front doors, which are custom made of glass inset with wrought iron, and the large glass windows that overlook the patio and gardens in the back. Th e d i n i n g t a b l e c a n s e a t 1 2 comfortably and is set with lovely Versace place settings. One of the most interesting pieces in the house is the Chihuly-style chandelier from Viz Glass. The sand and pebble finish wallpaper has textured glass beads worked into the pattern, and a faux-finish on the ceiling adds contrast to the room. One guest room features a silver crocodile print embossed headboard complemented by silk French knot bedding. Even the dresser blends in with its faux crocodile drawers. Since their children are grown and out of the house, Dianna and Michael converted their rooms into another guest suite, complete with private bath and sitting area. The kitchen, which was designed by Ellen Taylor, has a large island with a granite top. The cabinetry, made of an African wood similar to mahogany called Sapele, is designed with clean lines and a contemporary feel. Glass tile on the walls provides a shimmer in the room as light bounces from the colored pieces. A slate wall with a raised fireplace and inset monitor welcomes guests into the sitting room off the kitchen where they can chat comfortably on the ultra suede sectional and leather side chairs. “I’m just not a traditional kind of girl,” says Dianna, “and Michael likes contemporary style as well, so we were able to blend our styles.” The master closet would be the envy of any woman who dreams of the ultimate walk-in closet. The large space has a center shoe island, and Dianna has made what is typically a boring room more inviting by placing family photos around the tops of the closet shelves. The most important aspect of their home, according to Michael, is making it livable. “You want the punch and the wow,” he says, “and you have to be willing to keep changing it to achieve that. Once you think you’ve got it and it’s the last time you’ll do that, then it’s time to do something new.”
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C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n 27
home style
Jenny Howard has transformed her Shandon yard into a garden with personality.
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Building on a Good Foundation Jenny Howard’s Shandon garden
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enny Howard, a Shandon resident for more than 35 years, says, “To me, Shandon is so special because one day you can go by a little house that is practically a ‘lean-to,’ and a few days later go by and see all that they’ve done.” Makeover stories are extremely popular these days. Whether it is a human body or a home, Americans seem to love a story about a change for the better. The interesting thing about this one is that the makeover didn’t completely change the appearance; rather, it enhanced it, combining two
By Meredith Good / Photography by Jeff Amberg
lives and personalities that were poles apart. Jenny had been renting a place on Terrace Way, and when the owner wanted to move back in, Jenny decided to bite the bullet and buy a house. She mainly looked in the Shandon neighborhood. Her favorite area, it is close to her work and is a central spot in Columbia that many folks lovingly call home. One day, while performing the real estate scouting ritual familiar to so many homebuyers, Jenny turned around in a driveway on Heyward Street and saw
through her rear-view mirror a teeny tiny for-sale sign, way up on a tree. “Somebody just didn’t want that thing to be seen!” Jenny laughs. She soon found out just who didn’t want that for-sale sign to be visible – a woman named Mrs. Moody who had lived for many years in the quaint residence but had recently moved into an assisted-living facility. By Jenny’s description, Mrs. Moody was a meticulous woman who couldn’t swallow having to desert the residence that provided so many good years and memories to her and her late husband.
Jenny Howard is hesitant to put her gardening approach into a particular genre, saying simply, “I am a gardener just because I love the dirt.”
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They never had children, so, Jenny surmises, “The plants in the yard were her children.” Mrs. Moody had poured her devotion into many hours of caring for the painstakingly-planted azaleas, bulbs and hot pink camellias in the front and back yards. Indeed, Jenny was right; this flora was a sort of offspring to Mrs. Moody. Like any mother, she was wary of a stranger coming in to care for her babies. Everyone had to be carefully screened for positive attributes and qualifications. “When I asked her if I could meet with her about the sale of her home, upfront she said, ‘There are already two contracts ahead of you, I just want you to know.’” But providentially, Jenny and Mrs. Moody met anyway. “As soon as I saw the yard, I said, ‘Oh, this is a little piece of Heaven.’ I complimented her on the meticulous yard work and the tone immediately changed,” says Jenny. “I knew then that I had hit her heartstrings.” As it turns out, the little for-sale-byowner/as-is property was just so special to its owner that she couldn’t bear the thought of someone coming in and changing anything. Jenny and Mrs. Moody soon bonded over stories about the yard, and a new curator was in the making. On the day Jenny moved in, she found a cake in the kitchen and a note that simply said, “Take care of my little home.” In a custom-made jelly jar cabinet on the kitchen wall, Mrs. Moody left homemade pear preserves as well, presumably sustenance Jenny would need to care for the grounds. At the risk of making Mrs. Moody cringe, Jenny knew she would have to make some changes to the property in order to make it her own. She dismantled wrought iron back porch railings, pulled up the grass green carpet on the front porch, installed a new front door and thinned some of the azaleas and other plants, giving as many as she could away to new homes. Then Jenny addressed the symmetry in the gardens. Given her penchant for an informal, free-flowing landscape, Jenny gently altered the symmetry and predictable lines. She added curves and
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edging, then a delicate fig ivy – “My pride and joy,” she beams. When asked about her gardening style, Jenny opts not to classify her approach into a particular genre. Instead, she says, “Let’s just call it a Shandon garden. I am a gardener just because I love the dirt.” Mrs. Moody had planted a grapevine in the back yard that provides shade, cascades of leaves and an abundance of grapes to be picked and eaten. The pear tree has been a little more perplexing for Jenny, as the squirrels seem to harvest all of the fruit before she gets to them. “Somehow, the squirrels just didn’t get the pears with Mrs. Moody around,” smiles Jenny. Jenny adores a g arden with personality, and her garden’s personality comes to light through more than just foliage. The old wrought iron railings she removed from the back porch were given a creative re-purposing as trellises for vines along the side fence in the back. An unusual bench she discovered being discarded on Oak Street downtown now sits in the front yard. And some old tiles she found on the side of the road now make a rustic, curvy garden path through the front yard. Walking the grounds, Jenny describes the plants, sharing individual stories for each one. With Lady Bankshire, Miss Huff, oleander, forsythe and loropetalum gracing the landscape, there is plenty to behold. There are also herbs, a crabapple tree, three types of palm, trumpet vines, lantana, Lenten rose and a Japanese maple. In a corner of the front yard, a century plant sits very still and fruitless, as it will bloom only once in 100 years. There are also foxtail ferns and dwarf irises. “I inherited a yard with good bones,” states Jenny. While Mrs. Moody had no physical children, she passed along the DNA of affection for her cozy property when she signed that real estate contract in June 2001. It was then that Jenny Howard began the act of caretaking for a place that was now hers – legally, and on paper. But at the heart of the Heyward Street home, and especially in the yard, there will always be a tangible trace of unforgettable Mrs. Moody.
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Making Life Sweeter One Cupcake at a Time
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1. Flower Pot Cupcake, 2. White Chocolate Lemon Cupcake, 3. Almond Cupcake Basket, 4. Fudgy Devil’s Food Cupcake with leaf accent, 5. Peanut Butter Cup, 6. Fudgy Devil’s Food Cupcake with swirl accent, 7. Vanilla Butter Cupcake, 8. Strawberry Velvet Cupcake, 9. Orange Carrot Cupcake. 10. Caramel Apple Cupcake, 11. Coconut Snowball 32 C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n
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Story and Food Styling By Susan Fuller Slack, CCP Photography by Jeff Amberg
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he cupcake craze that started in New York and Los Angeles hit the sweet spot of American consumers and spawned a culinary revolution. Just check out food and bridal magazines, culinary blogs, Food Network’s popular show, “Cupcake Wars” and any of the mind-boggling number of cupcake shops now operating throughout the country, including one in downtown Columbia. Cupcakes have evolved from homespun treats to designer status with a dazzling array of fashion hues, shapes and exotic flavors. Mile-high frosted cupcakes are lavished with fresh flowers and leaves – even edible lace, jewels and pearls. Elegant, sculpted cupcake liners and wrappers reflect every occasion and theme. Classy cupcakes show up regularly at fashion shows, sporting events, birthday parties, showers, weddings and backyard barbecues. Cupcakes are still comfort food and aficionados love to bake them at home. On these pages we offer tried-and-true recipes from Susan Slack’s kitchen, made from scratch and from embellished box mixes, which are appreciated by folks short on time. We also offer luscious frosting and topping recipes with flavor variations, beginning on page 37. The cupcakes and frostings are all interchangeable, but you’ll find pairing suggestions as you go. Beyond a few easy baking techniques, cupcake basics are simple. Use top-quality ingredients; be creative and don’t be afraid to experiment. Cupcakes should always be served sooner rather than later. When it’s time to present your miniature masterpieces, move beyond cupcake liners to consider serving containers like martini glasses, teacups and terra cotta flower pots.
Cupcake Recipes Vanilla Butter Cupcakes Yield: about 20 cupcakes 2 1/2 cups sifted cake flour 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, room temperature 1 1/3 cups sugar 3 large eggs 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Fit paper cupcake liners into a cupcake pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt for 30 seconds. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter one minute on medium speed. Add sugar and continue beating about four minutes or until mixture is thick and palecolored. Beat in eggs, one at a time. Add vanilla. Add half the flour mixture and half the buttermilk. Beat at medium-low speed for 30 seconds or until flour is incorporated. Add remaining flour and buttermilk; blend one minute or until batter is smooth. Scoop 1/3 cup of batter into each cupcake liner. Bake 12 to 15 minutes or until cupcakes test done. Cool five minutes then remove w w w. c o l u m b i a m e t ro . c o m
from pan to cool completely on a rack. Frost cupcakes with any of our frostings and decorate as desired. Almond Cupcake Baskets Bake Vanilla Butter Cupcakes according to recipe, with this change: reduce vanilla to 1/2 teaspoon and add one teaspoon almond extract. When cooled, slice each cupcake in half horizontally. Spread Almond Cupcake Cream on the bottom halves then put top halves back into place. Frost cupcakes; refrigerate until serving time. Slip each cupcake into a paper basket liner and decorate with fresh flowers. Boston Créme Pie Cupcakes Bake Vanilla Butter Cupcakes according to recipe. When cooled, remove the center of each cupcake with a round mini vegetable cutter, a tomato huller or small knife. Fill with Almond Cupcake Cream. Top with Chocolate Cupcake Glaze or Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting. Coconut Snowballs Bake Vanilla Butter Cupcakes according to recipe. If desired, substitute canned coconut milk (not low-fat) for buttermilk. Spread Fluffy White Frosting or Cream Cheese Frosting thickly over cooled cupcakes, then sprinkle generously with 8
Useful Tips
• Frostings are creamier and thicker than icings and glazes. • Cupcakes tend to stick less in quality paper cupcake l i n e r s . I f s t i ck i n g i s a problem, mist lightly with vegetable spray. • Use an ice cream scoop to measure out 1/3 cup batter for each cupcake. • Check cupcakes in the oven at the minimum cooking time. A couple of extra minutes could make the difference between done and dry. • Use a metal cake tester, toothpick or wooden skewer to test cupcakes while baking. The tops should be springy to the touch. • Piped buttercream frosting from a pastry bag gives a polished look. For “mile high” frosting, you may need to double the recipe. Leftover buttercream-style frostings freeze well. • A variety of decorating tips are available for piping frosting: Try the Wilton #1M open star tip or Ateco #827 star tube for ridged swirls. The Ateco #6 round tip gives smooth swirls like those seen in the photographs. • Gallon-size zip-top plastic food storage bags also are good for piping frosting. Fill 3/4 full. Small bags are good for chocolate. • Cover and refrigerate whipped cream and cream cheese-frosted cupcakes. Remove from refrigerator 15 minutes before serving; add decorations. Unfrosted cupcakes freeze well; thaw in refrigerator then add frosting. • For additional tips on making the edible cupcake decorations shown in this article, visit http:// susanslacktasteofcarolina. wordpress.com. C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n 33
ounces sweetened shredded coconut until completely coated. Serve at once, or store in an airtight container and serve within two days. To boost flavor, lightly toast coconut on a large baking sheet at 350 degrees for 6 to 7 minutes, until golden brown. Stir often for even browning. Caramel Apple Cupcakes Yield: 12 cupcakes 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon each cinnamon and nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon each cloves and ginger 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature 2/3 packed cup light brown sugar 1 large egg 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce 1/2 cup grated tart apple scant 1/4 cup buttermilk dried apple slices Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Fit paper cupcake liners into a cupcake pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, spices, baking powder, baking soda and salt for 30 seconds. In a medium bowl cream butter and sugar until smooth and light. Beat in egg and vanilla. Stir in applesauce, grated apple and buttermilk until smooth. (Mixture may look curdled.) Pour in flour; stir ingredients together about 1 minute or until smooth. Spoon batter into cupcake liners. Bake 13 to 15 minutes or until cupcakes test done. Frost cooled cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting, then top with Caramel Drizzle and a dried apple slice. Strawberry Velvet Cupcakes Yield: 12 cupcakes 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 3/4 cup sugar 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 teaspoons Dutch processed cocoa 3/4 cup safflower or canola oil 1 large egg 1/4 cup sour cream 1/4 cup finely mashed strawberries 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1 teaspoon red food coloring 12 small, perfect strawberries, cut into fan-shapes Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Fit red or white paper cupcake liners into a cupcake pan. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt and cocoa for 30 34 C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n
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seconds. In a small bowl, whisk together oil, egg, sour cream, strawberries and vanilla; blend in food coloring. Pour egg mixture into flour mixture; whisk ingredients together just until smooth. Scoop 1/3 cup of batter into each cupcake liner. Bake 13 to 15 minutes or until cupcake tops are gently rounded and test done. Frost cooled cupcakes with Whipped Cream Frosting or Mascarpone Cream; decorate each with a strawberry. Orange Carrot Cupcakes Yield: 22 to 24 cupcakes 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 cups sugar 2 teaspoons baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1 1/3 cups vegetable oil 4 large eggs 3 cups grated carrots, using large side of box grater 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1 generous teaspoon grated orange zest Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Fit paper cupcake liners in a cupcake pan. In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking soda, salt and spices for 30 seconds. In another bowl, blend together oil, eggs, carrots, vanilla and orange zest. Add carrot mixture to flour mixture and stir until well blended. Spoon batter into cupcake liners until about 3/4 full. Bake 13 to 15 minutes or until cupcakes test done. Frost cooled cupcakes with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting. Further embellishment isn’t needed, but you could finish them off with sprinkles, tiny royal-icing carrots, finely chopped nuts or even a curled strip of candied carrot. Fudgy Devil’s Food Cupcakes Yield: 22 to 24 cupcakes 1 18.25-ounce box devil’s food cake mix (without pudding in the mix) 1 3.9-ounce box chocolate fudge instant pudding and pie filling 4 large eggs 1 cup sour cream 1/3 cup milk 1/2 cup vegetable oil 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract 1/2 cup semisweet or mint-flavored chocolate chips Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Fit paper cupcake liners into a cupcake pan. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix and the w w w. c o l u m b i a m e t ro . c o m
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next six ingredients. Blend on low speed about 30 seconds. Raise speed to medium; beat about two minutes more or until batter is smooth and thick. Fill muffin cups 1/2 to 3/4 full. Sprinkle one teaspoon chocolate chips over the top of each unbaked cupcake. Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until cupcakes test done. Cupcakes should be soft with a slightly moist crumb. Frost cooled cupcakes with Fluffy White Frosting or Chocolate Cupcake Glaze, or simply dust with powdered sugar. Make the chocolate decorations seen in the photo by piping melted semisweet chocolate or candy melts through a small round decorating tip into plastic candy molds. Peanut Butter Cups Yield: 18 to 20 cupcakes 1 18.25-ounce box moist devil’s food cake mix (with pudding in the mix) 1 cup buttermilk 3 large eggs 1/2 cup vegetable oil 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Fit paper cupcake liners into a cupcake pan. In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, buttermilk, eggs, oil and vanilla. Blend on low speed 30 seconds then stop and scrape down sides of bowl. Beat on medium speed two minutes more or just until batter is smooth. Fill muffin cups about 3/4 full. Put 1 heaping teaspoon Peanut Butter Filling in the center of each unbaked cupcake. Bake 15 to 17 minutes or just until cupcakes test done. Peanut butter filling may test slightly moist; don’t overbake. Cool five minutes then remove from pan to cool completely on a rack. Bake remaining cupcakes. Frost with Cream Cheese Frosting, Peanut Butter Frosting or Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting. In our photo, the frosted cupcake is decorated with melted semisweet chocolate and a peanut butter cup wedge. For the chocolate, pipe melted semisweet chocolate or candy melts through a small round decorating tip in a circular pattern on the frosting. White Chocolate Lemon Cupcakes Yield: 22 to 24 cupcakes 1 18.25-ounce box French vanilla or white cake mix 1 3.3-ounce box white chocolate instant pudding and pie filling 4 large eggs 1 cup lemon-flavored, vanilla or plain yogurt (not low-fat) 1/3 cup milk 1/2 cup vegetable oil 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract grated zest of 1 large lemon Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Fit paper cupcake liners into a cupcake pan. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix and next seven ingredients. Blend on low speed 30 seconds. Raise speed to medium; beat about two minutes more or until batter is smooth and thick. Fill muffin cups about 3/4 full. Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until cupcakes test done. Frost cooled cupcakes with White Chocolate Frosting or Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting; decorate as desired. The cupcake in our photo is covered with yellow-tinted White Chocolate Frosting piped in a flower design through a large rose tip. Frosting can also be swirled on with a large plain round or 36 C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n
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open star tip or spread on with a small offset spatula. Variation For a stellar summer party dessert, prepare 12 jumbo-size cupcakes. When cool, trim out the center of each cupcake (try a round mini vegetable cutter) and fill with tangy lemon curd. Frost with Whipped Cream Frosting or Mascarpone Cream; top with fresh raspberries and mint leaves. Flower Pot Cupcakes Our “flowering” cupcake is shown in a silicone flowerpot from the Castle Blooming Cupcake Kit, which comes with six oven-safe reusable silicone pots. Before baking, wash molds with warm soapy water; dry well. Apply a light coat of vegetable oil or vegetable spray. Place pots on a sturdy baking sheet and spoon in batter to the fill-line inside each mold. Bake according to package directions until cupcakes test done. Watch carefully while baking; the usual time may need a slight adjustment. Cool completely. You can top cupcakes with your favorite frosting while they are still inside the flowerpots. Decorate with icing flowers, non-toxic fresh flowers or other edible decorations. Or carefully remove from molds and decorate, then return to flowerpots for serving. Add jelly beans or other small candies to the flower pots to keep cupcakes from sinking too low when placed inside. This also provides an additional hidden surprise. Kit is sold at area craft stores. Small, clean, lead-free terra cotta flowerpots can also be used for baking and serving cupcakes.
Frostings & Toppings Almond Cupcake Cream 1/2 cup heavy cream 2/3 cup whole milk 4 large egg yolks 6 tablespoons sugar 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1/8 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon unsalted butter 1 teaspoon pure almond or vanilla extract 1 tablespoon Amaretto liqueur, if desired In a large heavy saucepan, whisk together cream, milk, egg yolks, sugar, flour and salt. Cook mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens into a sauce consistency. Remove pan from heat and stir in butter, almond extract and Amaretto. Scrape into a small bowl, stirring a few times until mixture cools. Wrap tightly and store in refrigerator until used. Makes about 1 1/3 cups. Use as a cupcake filling, varying the flavors as desired. Caramel Drizzle 7 ounces caramels, unwrapped 2 to 3 tablespoons cream or evaporated milk Melt caramels with cream or evaporated milk in a heatproof bowl. You can microwave the mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth or place in a small bowl and set into a pan of gently simmering water, stirring often. Melted caramel sauce shouldn’t be hot when drizzled over frosted cupcakes. w w w. c o l u m b i a m e t ro . c o m
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Chocolate Cupcake Glaze 2/3 cup heavy cream 6 ounces semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped 1 tablespoon unsalted butter 1 tablespoon corn syrup In a medium, heavy bottom saucepan, heat cream until very hot. Add chocolate and butter. Remove from heat and set aside five minutes for the chocolate to melt. Add corn syrup; whisk briefly just until smooth. Let mixture cool briefly to slightly thicken. Dip cupcake tops into glaze then give a little twist and remove. Glaze can also be spooned over the tops. Let cupcakes set for 30 minutes after glazing. Cream Cheese Frosting 11 ounces cream cheese, softened slightly, yet still cool 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract 4 cups confectioners’ sugar, or as needed 1 to 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice, to taste In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, butter and vanilla until smooth. Gradually add in confectioners’ sugar, beating on low speed until ingredients are combined. Raise speed to medium; beat one to two minutes until frosting is smooth and fluffy. If too soft to pipe, chill in the refrigerator 15 minutes in a covered container. Scoop frosting into a pastry bag fitted with a large round decorating tip for piping. Or spread on cupcakes with a small offset spatula or blunt edge knife. Leftover frosting keeps well two weeks if refrigerated in an airtight container. Variations Orange Cream Cheese Frosting: To the basic recipe, beat in the grated zest of one small orange. Substitute orange juice in place of lemon juice. Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting: To the basic recipe, beat in the finely grated zest of one large lemon. Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting: To the basic recipe, increase butter amount to a total of eight tablespoons; slowly beat in six tablespoons Hershey’s Special Dark cocoa until mixture is smooth. If too thick, stir in one or two tablespoons heavy cream or half and half. White Chocolate Frosting: To the basic recipe, slowly beat in six ounces melted white chocolate. To melt chocolate, place in a microwave-safe container and microwave at medium power (50 percent) in 30 second intervals. To prevent scorching, remove pan and stir chocolate each time to determine if it is melted. (Melted chocolate may still hold its shape.) Fluffy White Frosting 1 cup sugar 3 large egg whites, at room temperature 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar 1/4 cup water 1 cup Marshmallow Fluff 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla or other flavoring extract pinch sea salt Put some water into a double boiler base and place over medium-low heat. Place sugar, egg whites, cream of tartar and water into the top part of the double boiler pan then 38 C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n
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place over simmering water. (Don’t allow the pan holding the egg whites to touch the water.) Using an electric hand mixer, beat ingredients on low speed, about four minutes, until soft peaks form. Turn off the burner and remove double boiler from the heat. Quickly add spoonfuls of Marshmallow Fluff, vanilla and salt; continue beating about two minutes until frosting is stiff. Frosting must be used immediately and is best eaten within two days. Yields enough for 25 cupcakes or 18 “mile-high” cupcakes. Peanut Butter Filling 1/2 cup creamy or crunchy peanut butter 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened 2/3 cup confectioners’ sugar 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract In a medium bowl, cream all the ingredients together. Spread over unfrosted cupcakes, cookies or between cake layers. Peanut Butter Frosting 1 cup creamy peanut butter 3 ounces cream cheese, softened 1 stick unsalted butter, softened 2 or 3 tablespoons cream, milk or evaporated milk 2 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar, more if needed 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract In a medium mixing bowl, beat peanut butter, cream cheese, butter and cream until smooth. Gradually add two cups confectioners’ sugar, beating on medium speed until light and fluffy. If frosting seems too soft, add more sugar. Beat in vanilla. Makes about three cups. Whipped Cream Frosting 2 cups heavy cream or whipping cream 1/2 cup sifted confectioners’ sugar 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract Chill a large mixing bowl and mixer beaters. Pour cream into chilled bowl; beat with electric mixer until soft peaks form. Sprinkle in sugar and vanilla; continue beating until cream forms billowy, stiff peaks that hold their shape. Do not overbeat or cream will become grainy. Frost cupcakes at once and store in refrigerator. Best served within one to two days. To stabilize whipping cream for piping, sprinkle one teaspoon unflavored gelatin into two tablespoons cold water in a small bowl. When softened, set dish into a shallow pan of hot water; stir to dissolve. Cool melted gelatin slightly. Add in gelatin at the point sugar and vanilla are added. The small amount of cornstarch in confectioners’ sugar also helps stabilize whipped cream. Variations Spirited Whipped Cream: Instead of vanilla, stir in one to two tablespoons quality liqueur like Grand Marnier, Amaretto, Créme de Menthe or Myers dark rum. C h o c o late W h i p p e d C r eam : Include two to three tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder. Mascarpone Cream: Whisk one cup of room temperature mascarpone cheese in a large bowl to loosen. Gently fold in the whipped cream. Don’t over mix or mascarpone will curdle. Use frosting at once. w w w. c o l u m b i a m e t ro . c o m
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New to the neighborhood?
New Home Communities indicates a natural gas community
1. Allan’s Mill Price Range of New Homes: $100s - $160s School District: Richland 2 Palmetto Homes & Land Realty, LLC Mark Wright, (803) 404-1983 www.candcbuilders.com Directions: Take Percival Rd. to Smallwood. Turn left on Old Percival Rd. Allan’s Mill is on the right. 2. Chelsea Park Price Range of New Homes: $179,900 $204,900 School District: Lexington Richland 5 Rymarc Homes (803) 732-0118 www.rymarc.com Directions: Take I-26 West to exit 97 for Hwy 176/Peak. Take an immediate right on Julius Richardson. Proceed .7 miles to end. Turn right at West Shadygrove. The Chelsea Park entrance is .2 miles on left. Turn left into Chelsea Park on Heathwood. Turn right on Newton Rd., and the new phase is straight ahead. 3. Concord Park Price Range of New Homes: $160s School District: Lexington 2 C and C Builders of Columbia Tina Horne, (803) 736-5008 www.candcbuilders.com Directions: Take I-77 to exit 2 for 12th St. Extension. Turn left on Taylor Rd. behind Busbee Middle School. 4. Heath Pond Price Range of New Homes: $140s - $250s School District: Kershaw Palmetto Homes & Land Realty, LLC Diane Nevitt, (803) 414-3945; Dan Long, (803) 917-0947 www.DianeNevitt.com Directions: Take I-20 East to exit 87 for White Pond/Elgin. Turn left onto White Pond Rd., then left onto Larry Jeffers Rd. Heath Pond is ahead on the right. 5. The Homestead Subdivision Price Range of New Homes: $130s - $200s School District: Richland 2 EXIT Real Estate Solutions Richard Carr, (803) 421-9630 www.ExitColumbiaSC.com Directions: Take I-77 North to Farrow Rd. North. Turn right onto Hardscrabble, then right onto North Brickyard. Homestead Subdivision is on the left. 6. Jacobs Creek Price Range of New Homes: $124,900 $224,900
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School District: Richland 2 Great Southern Homes RMS – Realty & Marketing Services Robert Penny, (803) 360-9165 www.gshomes.gs Directions: Take I-20 East to exit 82 for Spears Creek Church Rd. Turn left onto Spears Creek Church Rd. Continue for three miles and cross Two Notch Rd. Jacob’s Creek will be approximately 1/2 mile ahead on the right. Follow signs to the new model home. 7. Lake Frances Price Range of New Homes: $169,900 $194,900 School District: Lexington 1 Rymarc Homes (803) 315-6409 www.rymarc.com Directions: Take I-20 to exit 55 for Hwy 6 East. Turn right at Hwy 6 East/S. Lake Dr., and continue for 3.6 miles. Turn left at Platt Springs Rd., and continue for 3.5 miles. Take a sharp right at Ramblin Rd., and go .5 mile. Turn right into Lake Frances on Lake Frances Way. 8. Lexington Villas Price Range of New Homes: $184,900 $273,900 School District: Lexington 1 Epcon Communities Jennah Wells, (803) 520-4381 www.LexingtonVillas.com Directions: Take I-20 West to exit 61 for Hwy 378/Sunset Blvd. Turn right, and go four miles toward Lake Murray. Turn right onto Whiteford Way. Lexington Villas will be ahead on the left. 9. The Lofts at Printers Square Price Range of New Homes: $749,000 $1,550,000 School District: Richland 1 Coldwell Banker United, Realtors® Danny & Karen Hood, (803) 227-3220 or (803) 227-3221 www.LoftsAtPrintersSquare.com Directions: In the Vista, the Lofts at Printers Square are at the corner of Lady and Pulaski streets. 10. LongCreek Plantation Price Range of New Homes: $250,000 $650,000 School District: Richland 2 Plantation Properties (803) 754-2071 www.longcreekplantation.com Directions: Take I-77 North to the Killian Rd.
exit, and turn right. Follow the signs to LongCreek Plantation. 11. Peach Grove Villas Price Range of New Homes: $184,900 $273,900 School District: Richland 2 Epcon Communities Levi Weisser, (803) 223-9545 www.PeachGroveVillas.com Directions: Take I-20 East 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. 12. Pine Forest Price Range of New Homes: $120s - $180s School District: Kershaw Palmetto Homes & Land Realty, LLC Diane Nevitt, (803) 414-3945 www.candcbuilders.com Directions: Take I-20 East to the Elgin exit. Turn left onto White Pond Rd. Continue to the traffic light in Elgin, crossing Main St./Hwy 1. Cross railroad tracks, and bear right onto Smyrna Rd. Pine Forest is on the left about a mile ahead. 13. Quail Creek Price Range of New Homes: $100s - $150s School District: Kershaw Palmetto Homes & Land Realty, LLC Diane Nevitt, (803) 414-3945 www.candcbuilders.com Directions: Take I-20 East to the Elgin exit. Turn left onto White Pond Rd. Continue to the traffic light in Elgin, crossing Main St./Hwy 1. Cross railroad tracks, and bear right onto Smyrna Rd. Turn right onto Wildwood Ln., and then left onto Cook Rd. then left into Quail Creek community. 14. Rabon’s Farm Price Range of New Homes: $79,900 $159,900 School District: Richland 2 Great Southern Homes RMS – Realty & Marketing Services Lauren Sawyer, (803) 360-4327; Sandy Cleaves, (803) 622-9065 www.gshomes.gs Directions: Take I-77 North to Two Notch Rd. exit. Turn right onto Two Notch, then left onto Rabon Rd. Turn right onto Flora Dr. Rabon’s Farm is .5 mile ahead on the right. Take second entrance, and model home is on the left. 15. Rutledge Place Price Range of New Homes: $125,000 $225,000
School District: Kershaw Palmetto Homes & Land Realty, LLC Barbara Jordan, (803) 243-0524; Steve King, (803) 600-9414 www.barbarajordan.homesandland.com Directions: Take I-20 East to exit 98. Turn left onto Hwy 521 North. Continue 5.7 miles through Camden. Rutledge Place is ahead on the left on Edinburgh Castle Rd. 16. Saluda River Club Price Range of New Homes: Townhomes from the $200s; Craftsman Homes from the $300s; Executive Homes from the $500s; Village District Homesites from the $60s; River District Homesites from $113,900 School District: Lexington 1 Saluda River Club Edmund H. Monteith, Jr., (803) 358-3969 www.saludariverclub.com Directions: Take I-20 West to exit 61 for Hwy
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378. Turn right, and take an immediate right onto Corley Mill Rd. The entrance to Saluda River Club is located 1.9 miles down Corley Mill Rd. on the right. 17. South Brook Price Range of New Homes: $134,900 $152,900 School District: Lexington 1 Rymarc Homes (803) 315-6409 www.rymarc.com Directions: Take I-20 West to exit 51. Turn left, and South Brook is on the left. 18. Spring Knoll Price Range of New Homes: $120s - $150s School District: Lexington 1 Thomas Shumpert, (803) 518-2588 www.candcbuilders.com Directions: Take I-20 West to Hwy 6. Turn left
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toward Red Bank/Pelion. Go about 4 miles, and turn right onto Platt Springs Rd. Take the first road to the left, which is Brevard Rd.
Directions: Take I-77 North to exit 24. Turn left onto Wilson Blvd. Stonington will be one mile on the right.
19. Stoney Creek Price Range of New Homes: $220s - $280s School District: Lexington 1 ReMax Real Estate Consultants Thomas Shumpert, (803) 518-2588 www.candcbuilders.com Directions: Take Hwy 378 through Lexington, and turn right onto Wise Ferry Rd. Stoney Creek is ahead on the left.
21. The Thomaston Subdivision Price Range of New Homes: $160s - $200s School District: Richland 2 EXIT Real Estate Solutions Richard Carr, (803) 421-9630 www.ExitColumbiaSC.com Directions: Take I-77 North to exit 22. Turn right onto Killian Rd., then left onto Longreen Pkwy. Thomaston Subdivision is on the left.
20. Stonington Price Range of New Homes: $169,900 $199,900 School District: Richland 2 Rymarc Homes (803) 732-0118 www.rymarc.com
22. Wellesley Price Range of New Homes: $170,900 $194,900 School District: Lexington 1 Rymarc Homes (803) 808-1201
www.rymarc.com Directions: Take I-20 West to exit 61 for US 378/Lexington. Merge right on US 378, and turn left at the first light onto Ginny Ln. Continue to community ahead on the right. 23. Westcott Ridge Price Range of New Homes: $220s to $400,000 School District: Lexington/Richland 5 (Chapin) Russell & Jeffcoat Realtors, Inc. Brenda Berry, (803) 781-6552 www.westcottridge.com Directions: Take I-26 West to exit 97 for Hwy 176/ Peak. Turn right onto Broad River Rd. Continue 1 mile, and Westcott Ridge is on the left.
This listing is provided by the Home Builders Association of Greater Columbia.
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Home Style
Ask the Home Experts Q: Have you ever wondered how a portable UV light purification system cleans all the air in the home? A: Well actually, it doesn’t. Only a UV light system that is placed in your ductwork can properly purify the air in your entire house. Recent technology upgrades have made whole home UV light systems not only more efficient, but safer to use. Today, studies show that your indoor air quality can actually be worse than the air outside. Mold, mildew, viruses and bacteria can now be controlled in your home using a wide variety of UV purification systems. These systems should be chosen based off of symptoms and a thorough analysis by a certified technician. 2nd Wind offers a number of UV purification systems to help you and your family breathe easier. Call us today at 786-7433 or visit us at 2ndwindhvac.com. Jeff Hall, 2nd Wind Heating and Air Q: What kind of sod should I use? A : Th i s i s a q u e s t i o n homeowners commonly ask when considering the renovation of an old lawn or starting fresh with a new one. Selecting the proper grass is the most important step in establishing a lawn, and certain considerations should be made in the decision making process, including whether the grass will be watered manually or with an automatic irrigation system, environmental limitations of the site, drainage, pH, soil type, the amount of sun or shade and how the lawn will be used. The most commonly used turf grasses in the South are St. Augustine, Centipede and Zoysia varieties, each of which have their pros and cons, as well as very different textures and characteristics. Of course, one of the most important but often overlooked things to do before installing new sod is a soil test. The best lawns and gardens seem to have one thing in common – great soil. Testing the soil in your lawn is an easy and relatively inexpensive task, and it can be done with do-it-yourself kits, through your local extension service or by a professional landscaping company. Trent Hutchinson, Blue Moon Landscaping Q: I’d like to open up a room in my home by removing a wall, but I think it may be a load-bearing wall. Is there
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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, Byron Lawson Builders Q: Why is Sunbrella fabric better than other outdoor fabrics? Are all outdoor fabrics Sunbrella? A: The availability of outdoor fabrics and related products has grown tremendously over the past few years. The name Sunbrella has become well known (a good thing) but is often confused with other outdoor fabrics that do not have the same qualities and characteristics (a bad thing). The magic of Sunbrella fabric is that it is solution dyed, which means that the color is throughout the fabric, not just on top. Imagine a carrot (solution dyed fabric) that is the same color inside and out versus a radish (non-solution dyed fabrics) which has the color only on the outside. Hours of sunlight, or use of strong detergents, will eventually remove the color from those fabrics that are not solution dyed. Patio umbrellas, cushions and throw pillows will last much longer in the sun’s rays and withstand cleaning if made with solution dyed fabrics. Dottie Reynolds, Casual Living Q: How can I use my irrigation system to conserve water? A: Irrig ation systems with smart controllers are the newest technology for water conservation in the landscaping industry. Irrigation equipment manufacturers have been working hard the last several years to help homeowners and business owners save water and money. You input your zip code, soil type, plant type and turf type, and the system does the rest. The smart controller saves an average of 50 percent in water consumption. The system self adjusts based on climate
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conditions and your landscape’s changing water needs. Your system can also be accessed via your computer. If you want to save water and money, call us for an irrigation system consultation. Holcombe Smith, Exceed Landscape Solutions Q: What are top design recommendations for people with pets? A: Most of you live with your very own master(s) of the house, just like we do. Here are our top recommendations on how to make your home both pet friendly and still fashionable. 1. Don’t use loosely woven fabrics on upholstery pieces that Fifi’s nails might cling to. As beautiful as it may be, it won’t look nearly as wonderful when it is all picked and torn. 2. Think practical when it comes to draperies. Panels that puddle around windows look beautiful, but are very tempting to Fido. Opt instead for panels that just hit the floor, a decorative valance or Roman shade. 3. Opt for stain resistant fabrics on upholstery. A variety of fabrics are pet-friendly, as well as owner-friendly, and they aren’t just plain old solids, either. 4. Don’t use flat paints. Your walls will show every nose smudge, paw print or drool stain. Instead choose satin or eggshell finishes that are as easy to clean as glossy finishes but have less shine and don’t draw your eye to wall imperfections. Katie O’Connor, Katherine J. Anderson Interiors Q: I have my plans and I have a builder. How much will it cost? How long will it take? What else do I need to do? A: Whether you are thinking of a large custom home or a remodel, the relationship between builder and owner is much like a marriage. To be successful, all parties must vow to participate in the process, communicate often and respectfully, and work daily to stay on the same page. As in a marriage, all parties in the home-building process have responsibilities. The builder commits to providing quality materials and workers, and the owners commit to timely decisions and daily participation. All parties must keep the communication lines open and play by the rules. Builders must have expertise and provide quality while being flexible and accommodating of custom changes. A good set of plans tells a builder the scope of the job and the time of completion, but they may not tell the builder what unique preferences, selections and desires the owner may have in mind. As in a marriage, it is good to know these things up front in order to avoid the inevitable curve ball or change order. But in the middle, selections may change or the owner may be unavailable.
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Regardless, the builder must keep the home-building process alive and assess the effect of these changes on the budget. As in a marriage, some building projects are more complicated than others, but the issues, rules and expectations are the same. To make it work, all parties must decide what they want, be honest, respectful and always keep the communication lines open. The successful marriage of a builder and a homeowner protects the builder’s standing while providing the owner with a quality home. In most cases this home building partnership results in a lasting friendship. Bob LaMotte, LaMotte Builders Q: What should everyone know about their plumbing? A: First, and the most important, is that you need to know where and how to cut off the main water supply to your home. Also, this needs to be checked annually to make sure it works in case of an emergency. Second, you need make sure your toilets are not wasting water caused by a leaking flapper. This is an inexpensive simple repair that can save hundreds on a water bill. And third, you need to check your water pressure to make sure its does not exceed 80 psi. If the pressure is too high, then you should have a pressure-reducing valve installed to protect your plumbing and water using appliances. Following these three tips can help save you money and untimely plumbing problems. Kevin Meetze, Meetze Plumbing Q: How do I make my room more interesting? A: There are lots of ways to add interest to a room: color, texture, fabric, art and accessories are just a few. What can make a room lackluster is having too much of the same thing. Furniture pieces that are all from the same collection, identically patterned fabrics on multiple surfaces and nothing but matching accessories create a monotonous look. When you enter a room and everything repeats itself, it can become dull or boring. Don’t be afraid to mix it up. You can combine stained and painted furniture pieces with one another, or mix and match new items with antiques. Utilize coordinating, not matching, fabrics and don’t be afraid to combine different textures and patterns. Add interest by introducing a variety of accessories made from different types of materials. A bowl made of wood, a beautifully shaped vase made of glass and a wall hanging comprised of metal would create flair and interest. Mandy Summers, M. Gallery Interiors
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Q: What is a low cost way to update my kitchen and to also make a big impact? A: One way to update your kitchen and to stay within a reasonable budget is to reface your kitchen cabinets. The first step is to decide on your new cabinet door design and new hardware. Then remove all your old cabinet doors and measure for your new cabinet doors. Next, paint the cabinets and your new cabinet doors. Finally, hang your new cabinet doors and install the new hardware. This inexpensive update will make a huge impact on the look and the feel of your kitchen. Brandon Mooring, Mooring Home Builders Q: We’re moving in a few weeks. How can we cut as much cost as possible without sacrificing professional service? A: Like most things, clear communication is so important in moving, as the devil is in the details. Ask questions and be clear about what responsibilities you’re willing to tackle. The best way to cut costs initially is handling as much packing as possible. It’s difficult and tedious, but it’s a great cost cutter. If you’ve had enough of the paper cuts and monotony, your transfer associates will be happy to help. Large, delicate items such as lamps and artwork can be difficult to pack; handling the transfer of these items will cut significant costs. Accessibility is the key to an efficient relocation. Make sure pathways are clear of clutter and all your furniture surfaces are bare. Everyone deserves exceptional service when it comes to the transfer of family possessions. Tyler Fairey, Palmetto Specialty Transfer Q: What is a green home? A: There are several programs a builder can follow to build a green home, but don’t let them confuse you. A green home is more energy efficient, is constructed with less resources, consumes less water, has improved indoor air quality, has less of an impact on its surroundings and, most importantly, is inspected by a third party to insure that the home is properly constructed. It takes a combination of past experience as well as the ability to utilize all of the new products on the market to achieve the next evolution in home building. Homes are built on a sliding scale of green – from the very
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economical basic green home to the off-the-grid, self sustained home. Contrary to common belief, a green home does not have to cost more than a traditional one. It is very important to use a builder who is educated in these building techniques because a home is a living system, and simply installing a few green features in a home without considering the entire system can decrease the performance of the home. Stan O’Brien, Paradime Construction Q: I have had my home on the sales market for more than three months and can’t wait any longer for a sale. Can I rent it? A: Certainly! There are a number of reasons renting is a good option. First, you will receive income while having the security of knowing someone is in your home taking care of it and paying your utilities. Second, you can wait out the market while you are receiving income. Sell the home later, after the tenant moves. Third, due to stringent lending regulations, the market is full of first time renters. Using a property management company ensures that state landlord/tenant laws are followed and the prospective tenant’s credit and references are scrutinized. A property management company will also perform maintenance and inspections and collect rent in a timely manner. Susan Crosby, Property Consultants Q: When choosing an ornamental fence, how do I choose between aluminum and steel? A: If you are looking for a fence that provides the beauty of wrought iron at a reasonable price, most people find that aluminum is the perfect fit for their specific needs. Aluminum provides the detail and elegance that people desire and is virtually maintenance free. Steel provides this same desirable look at virtually the same cost, but is much more durable. We have found that steel is the best selection for yards with large dogs and/or children (who might climb). Ryan Brewer Enterprises always takes the upmost pride in providing high quality fencing and installation. When choosing a fence for your house you have many options to choose from, and we can guide and assist you in making the right decision for your yard. Taking into consideration your landscape, needs and budget, we can help you find the perfect fencing solution for your property. Ryan Brewer, Ryan Brewer Enterprises Q: My travertine shower is dull, with caked-on soap scum
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and etch marks on the floor and wall. What can I do? A: The good news is your travertine can be restored to a like-new condition. It is possible to remove all soap scum and replace the grout, then hone, polish and sanitize the tile. Instead of investing a large sum of money replacing damaged tile, check with an expert about restoring any of your natural stone surfaces –– marble, granite, travertine, limestone, onyx, terrazzo, ceramic or porcelain. Imagine the thrill of having your natural stone surfaces looking brand new without a burdensome expense and without the mess. And once an expert has completed the grinding, honing, polishing and cleaning, be sure to have the surfaced sealed for long-lasting protection. John Sandifer, Sandifer’s Tile and Grout Q: Can I really save money by using a natural gas tankless water heater? A: Yes! In fact, you can save up to $6,400 in energy costs over the expected 20 year life of a natural gas tankless water heater. That’s over $300 annually and a seemingly endless supply of hot water, too. No more running out of hot water during a shower or scheduling the dishwasher against bath times. Plus, natural gas tankless water heaters are up to 25 percent more energy efficient than a standard electric water heater. They also last longer and require little maintenance, meaning fewer busted water heaters going to the landfill. Their compact design allows for flexible installation locations without giving up valuable floor space in your home or garage. Check with SCE&G on rebates and incentives of up to $650 for customers who convert from electric or propane models to a natural gas tankless water heater. You’ll be glad you did. www.sceg.com/value SCANA Q: Why should I buy a custom entry? A: We all have a personal style. When we shop, we look for things that reflect that style and you should do the same when thinking about a new entry for your home. After all, an entry is the focal point of your home, welcoming your guests and introducing them to your personal style. It is a design detail that makes a statement for all to see. As well as being aesthetically pleasing, a custom entry should be of quality construction and energy efficient. A custom door professional will work with you to achieve all of this, and the result will be a product that will last for years to come. A custom entry does not mean your budget will skyrocket out of control. A custom door professional will listen to your
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design ideas to assist you in finding the right design style at the right price for you. Bill Barrett, Southern Custom Doors and Hardware Q: Why would I hire a decorative artist to work in my home? A: No matter your style or budget, there’s something in your home a faux painter can transform. Refinishing kitchen cabinets is an efficient upgrade that can make them seem brand new. Plasters create extremely luxurious spaces and cover any surface including walls, ceilings (the fifth wall), fireplace surrounds, mantels and columns. Old or new furniture can be embellished using any material, paint, stain, glaze, plaster or paper, and specialty finishes can turn furniture into a one-of-akind treasure. Cabinets, walls, furniture – all can be remade in any style, any color, any look. The possibilities are endless. An experienced, educated and trained faux artist is a valuable resource for homeowners seeking an exciting change for their familiar spaces. Georgia Lake, Surface Q: Why should I have my chimney swept now? I’ve always waited until the fall when I am ready to use it! A: The spring and summer are the perfect times to provide care and maintenance to this valuable asset in your home. The soot and creosote build up from the fall and winter burning seasons are full of odors and acids that lead to unpleasant smells and a more rapid deterioration of your flue, smoke chamber, firebox and damper assembly. Having your fireplace system swept and inspected by a certified chimney sweep will give you the opportunity to schedule an appointment at your convenience, rather than trying to find someone who can see you immediately when the forecast calls for cold weather. By then, the answer to your request will most probably be that you can be given an appointment in about three weeks. Certified chimney sweeps can be found through the Chimney Safety Institute of America at www.csia.org. The chimney professionals will provide a minimum Level I visual inspection based on the National Fire Protection Association Standards which will evaluate your fireplace system based on the International Residential Code Standards and NFPA211 standards of how chimneys and fireplaces should be built. This is also a great time to consider installing a chimney top to keep birds, squirrels and rain out of the flue and smoke chamber and prevent costly repairs. Now is the perfect time to have your fireplace and chimney system serviced. Ron Rust, Top Hat Sweepers
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feature
Favorite Things Treasures Columbians hold dear
By Deena C. Bouknight / Photography by Jeff Amberg
Melissa Bird cherishes the lollipop stool from her grandfather’s bank in Aiken, where she deposited her pennies as a child.
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hat it is that people hold dear – besides their loved ones? If faced with a house fire or a threatening natural disaster, what items of importance are hurriedly grabbed? We all hold tight to some type of cherished treasures, whether they are truly valuable or just meaningful. This article draws the curtain on a cross-section of Columbia residents to reveal what is a favorite thing in their lives and why.
Favorite Thing: Step Stool Melissa Bird’s grandfather was the president of Farmer’s and Merchants Bank in Aiken. When she visited her grandparents as a child in the 1970s, she says, “I deposited my money at my grandfather’s bank, as did other children.” In order to reach the teller, Melissa and other children had to stand on a step stool. When they deposited their money, the teller gave them a lollipop. The stool became known as the lollipop stool. Melissa’s grandfather came up with the idea to shoot a local commercial featuring his then four-year-old granddaughter standing on the stool. Melissa remembers making the commercial, which aired in the Aiken and Augusta areas. “Big Daddy, my grandfather, was standing right beside me as I was on the stool,” says Melissa. “He said to me, ‘Lil’ Puddin,’ which is what he called me, ‘Where do you keep your money?’ I replied, ‘In Big Daddy’s piggy bank.” The stool now graces Melissa’s open, country-style kitchen at the home she shares with her husband, a pastor at Crossroads Church downtown, and their four daughters. It is decorated with painted lollipops and the name of the bank, all original artwork, and occupies a corner next to kitchen cabinetry. “The lollipop stool stayed at the teller window for children for a while, but now I have inherited it, and it is most special … with sweet memories of Big Daddy and his piggy bank.” Favorite Thing: Scrapbook Lee Richards was a guard on the Keenan High School basketball team in 1975 when Keenan beat Irmo for the state championship. It was the highlight of Richards’ senior year. At the awards banquet, two girls came up to him – one he remembers being a Keenan student and another who he had never seen before or since. That unknown girl gave him something that he treasures dearly – a scrapbook of his senior basketball season. “I had not kept a single article or memento, and here this girl comes up to me that I didn’t know and hands me this scrapbook with every newspaper clipping and even my name and my points underlined,” says Lee, now an anesthesiologist at Lexington Medical Center. “It was humbling. I wish I knew who she was so I could thank her.” For the last few months of his senior year, Lee spent much of his time at his best friend’s home. He graduated, went to
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college, enrolled in medical school, married, and is now raising five children with his wife, Elizabeth. In the meantime, he lost track of the scrapbook. “The last time I saw it was during my senior year. I didn’t know what happened to it, but I thought about it often and wanted to show it to my kids.” A little over a year ago, Lee was visiting the father of his high school friend. The father told Lee, “I think I have something of yours.” He brought him the scrapbook, which Lee realized he must have left at their home 30-plus years earlier. “I was so thrilled!” says Lee. “I had told my kids about that year and our wins. With the scrapbook, I was able to show them what that year was like.” He adds, “It’s a treasure to me, really the only ‘thing’ that I treasure. I am so grateful to that girl for giving it to me.” Lee says he now keeps the scrapbook in a safe place in his bedroom. Favorite Thing: Rocker Michelle James, director at Prosperity Project, rocked her two sons, now 9 and 11, in the rocking chair that was owned by her great grandmother. “My great grandmother had given it to my mother,” she says, “and my mother presented it to me at my first baby shower.” Michelle’s father and siblings had all been rocked in the rocker as babies. “We’re thinking it’s at least 75 years old.” Although it was in bad shape when it was finally passed down to Michelle, extensive work was done on the Shaker-style rocker to refinish the wood and update the upholstery. “It is now in pristine condition and sits in our guest room for any visitors to use who might have babies,” says Michelle. “I fully intend to pass it down to one of my son’s wives.” She says she anticipates that there will be many more babies to be rocked in that rocker in the future. Favorite Things: Bible and Gun Cabinet Eric Barfield, a pilot and an insurance agent at Hope Aviation Insurance Inc., says there are two treasures that he holds dear: his grandfather’s Bible and the gun cabinet his father built for him. “I grew up thinking that my mom’s dad was a preacher,” says Eric. “I found out he was actually a salesman who simply sold out to the Lord and took every opportunity to teach and preach wherever and whenever he could. My granddad was an inspiration to me in that no one will remember me for my
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aviation insurance acumen, but hopefully there will be some folks in Heaven who might remember some small thing the Lord did through me to help them in their journey.” Even though Eric has never been a hunter, he cherishes the gun cabinet his father made for him out of some heart pine from an old barn on the family tobacco farm in Eastern North Carolina. “After my wife and I had moved to Columbia so I could work for Hope Aviation, my dad brought his handiwork. I keep a couple of shotguns in it that my dad gave me, one of which belonged to my grandfather. But I also keep special mementos in it, including my grandfather’s Bible.”
anxious when we have to take them off for a performance,” says Lisa, who is a dance instructor at Bailey Fine Arts where her daughter is a dancer. “I think that over the last seven years, we’ve both grown very accustomed to being able to reach down and fiddle with it, and we both love knowing that the other is wearing their heart.” Lisa says she tears up when she feels the heart and thinks back to when Bailey was young. “When we first got the necklaces, she would show everyone how they fit inside each other. She was so proud and excited. She would make me bend down and press really tightly up against me so she could pop her heart inside mine. She would say, ‘See, we fit perfectly.’”
Favorite Things: Sideboard and Painting Erin Galloway, a Blythewood based interior designer, recognizes that she probably won’t be able to grab her beloved sideboard in case of a fire or natural disaster, but she might consider grabbing a painting that has significance. “I absolutely love the sideboard in our dining room for the reason that my husband Scott’s great grandfather made it – probably in the early 1900s – and because it’s old, rustic, farmhouse style made of oak with no nails, only wooden pegs.” Fo r a c o m p l e t e l y different reason, however, Erin cherishes a painting by local artist Debbie Martin that was given to her by the artist as a remembrance of her sister, who died suddenly in a car accident. “It’s a very contemporary, modern art piece with bright cheery colors of chaos on one side and peace on the other. There is an image that looks like a cross at the top. Debbie calls the piece ‘Hope.’ It was the first real, large piece of original art that I owned.” Erin adds that when people enter her house, they comment on the painting as being beautiful or interesting. “But for me it has meaning that is all about my sister.”
Favorite Things: Piano Dawn Smith Jordan learned to play the piano alongside her sister, who was tragically murdered 20-plus years ago in Lexington in an infamous case that led to a made-for-television movie. It was her grandmother’s piano, the one her mother and children learned to play on. And it has been the piano she has used as her instrument to build a career as a singer, songwriter and piano instructor. Dawn won Miss South Carolina in 1986 and is signed as a recording artist with Urgent Records. She travels nationwide singing and speaking at women’s retreats and conferences. “My love of music began on that Acrosonic piano and has continued in both of my children’s lives. My daughter is an accomplished pianist, guitarist, singer, songwriter, recording artist and worship leader. My son is an accomplished guitarist, drummer and composer, who first began learning to play music on that same piano when I began teaching him at the age of 5, at his request,” says Dawn. “It is my prayer that the joy music has brought into my family and our lives will continue in the students I am now teaching, as music is truly a gift that keeps on giving for years to come.” Dawn says her grandmother probably never imagined how much the piano would affect so many lives. When her daughter was young, she took some drumsticks to the keys and chipped away some of the ivory. “When the piano tuner came to tune the piano, he tried to talk me into getting a new piano, with no success,” she says. “I simply told him that the sentimental value was worth far more than a brand new piano would ever be to me.” Dawn’s mother passed away seven years ago, which makes her cherish the piano she passed on even more. “I treasure the piano my mother gave to me as an inheritance, and I will one day pass it on to my own children.”
Favorite Thing: Silver Heart Necklace When Lisa Sendler’s only daughter, Bailey, was about seven years old, her husband Scott bought her and Bailey a heart necklace set for Mother’s Day. Bailey’s necklace matches her mother’s in shape, but it is slightly smaller so that it fits inside her mother’s. “We both wear them all the time, and we both feel a little
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feature
Vacationing on a Budget
The Daley family enjoys vacationing in Nicaragua because it is less tainted by tourism and has more culture than more popular spots.
Columbia families share tips for affordable trips By Deena Bouknight / Photography courtesy of respective families
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igh gas prices. A strained economy. Job cuts. With the economic climate still iffy, for some families, vacations may seem impossible this year. However, there are families in the Columbia area that have embarked on affordable trips, and they share with us ideas and tips for enjoying vacations without straining family finances. Of course, before plans can be made, vacation budgets need to be established. The Frugal Family Traveler
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advises against going into debt to fund vacations, as they are luxuries, not necessities. For some families, budgets might accommodate air travel and hotels, while others need to stick closer to home. Economically Exotic The most expensive part of the Daley family’s adventure to Nicaragua, where they have been three times, is the airfare. However, Jana Daley says that frequent flyer miles and booking tickets
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photo courtesy of deena bouknight
early has saved her family money. “Managua is one of the few places where you can actually get a ticket with a reasonable amount of frequent flyer miles,” says Jana. “For us it was 35,000 for a ticket.” Flights can be taken from Columbia to Atlanta and then directly to Managua. If you leave Columbia in the morning, you can be there by lunchtime. Beyond the cost of airfare, a vacation to Nicaragua is very cheap, according to Jana, who has traveled there with her husband, Bob, and their daughters Anna Katherine, 11, and Elizabeth, 9. “It’s an amazing alternative to a popular place like Costa Rica,” says Jana. “It’s much less tainted by tourism and has much more culture. Our love for Nicaragua actually developed out of our desire to serve the people of the country through missions work, but whenever we travel to Nicaragua we always plan a couple of days to explore the country as a family.” The Daleys have especially enjoyed the city of Granada, which they consider the “Charleston of Nicaragua.” Whereas finer hotels are $200 to $400 a night in Charleston, they are $75 to $100 a night in Granada. The Daleys have stayed at Hotel Spa Granada, which Jana says includes a “huge, and I mean huge, breakfast, and even a spa treatment. They also have a chocolate museum on site. The food in Granada is fabulous and a gourmet meal runs around $15 per person.” Jana describes Granada this way: “It is the oldest city in the New World and it boasts beautiful 16th century Spanish Colonial architecture surrounding a gorgeous central square. Granada, situated on Lago Nicaragua, is a place teeming with life and culture.” En route to a rustic jungle lodge on Laguna de Apoya, called San Simeon, the Daleys were able to see an active volcano and visit an artists’ market. “San Simeon is one of the coolest places I have ever stayed,” says Elizabeth. “It’s like living in The Jungle Book. We stayed in a thatched roof cabin with a very interesting open air shower and a front balcony that looked right over the laguna. We could run down and jump in the laguna anytime we wanted. The laguna used to be a volcano. Doesn’t that sound like fun to swim inside a volcano?” Jana points out that even though you must have a passport to travel to Nicaragua, getting through customs is easy, the people are “the most hospitable ever,” shopping is affordable and transportation around the country is inexpensive. “We feel very safe when we visit there.” Glamping and Zipping When Ellison Robinson saw a plug about zip lines on a news show, she thought it would be a great idea for her family’s vacation. She found out about a zip line experience in Bryson City, N.C. Falling Waters is considered an adventure resort and offers a Nantahala Gorge Canopy Tour via a zip line that glides high among the treetops for what Ellison describes as an “exhilarating” adventure. Her family, which includes her husband Clay, sons Henry, 17, and Sam, 12, and daughter Meredith, 14, enjoyed being strapped into a harness and zipping from one platform to another for approximately three hours. “We realized that this really appeals to all ages,” she says. “It was fun, safe, fabulous ... a fantastic family activity.” Although zip lining was a treat for the Robinsons, the accommodations were just as memorable an experience. For the first time, the family “glamped,” a combination of the words glamorous and camping. At Falling Waters is a scenic Yurt Village, which features circular Mongolian-inspired structures, each made of an elaborate framework of wood and covered in a durable canvas. “You think you’re going to be staying in a glorified tent and that it really won’t be comfortable, but these yurts were so warm, dry and cozy. There is a bed and a futon, a mini refrigerator, coffee maker, ceiling fan and space heater. It was raining the next day when we woke up, but the yurt was completely waterproof. We didn’t want to leave.” The Robinson family found a great adventure vacation in Bryson City, N.C. that included zip lining and staying in a yurt village. 50 C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n
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The yurts at Falling Waters Yurt Village also have French doors, polished knotty pine floors, area rugs, skylights and a stereo CD player. The 16-foot diameter yurts are tucked among trees and overlook a small pond. Fire pits, bathrooms, showers and a hot tub are adjacent. A picturesque trail leads to a waterfall and lake, and nearby is access to whitewater rafting, fishing, horseback riding, canoeing, kayaking and mountain biking. Although The Wall Street Journal recently featured a cleverly headlined article about yurt accommodations throughout the world, titled “An In-Tents Experience,” the cost of staying in a yurt in – say – Rhone Alps, France or Patagonia, Chile, is prohibitive for most vacationers trying to stick to limited budgets. Yet, the yurts at Falling Waters are only around $80 per night. The cost for one person to zip line was almost as much as the cost to stay a night in a yurt – between $59 and $69 per person. “Zip lining is just costly because of liability and insurance,” says Ellison, “but it was a great experience. However, we could have just come and stayed in the yurts and had a great time.” Sharing Means Saving Each summer, Janice and David Edwards, along with their four children, plan a camping trip at a state park. In South Carolina alone, there are 47 state parks, according to the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism. Most of these parks offer some form of camping for tents, campers or even equestrian trailers. The Edwardses have tent camped with other families at such places as Devil’s Fork State Park on beautiful Lake Joccassee or at Oconee State Park. The Edwards have two large tents to accommodate their family and sometimes a few friends of their children. “Staying at a state park is pretty economical. It’s $20 per night for a site with running water and electricity ... and even cheaper if you don’t want those amenities,” says Janice. The Edwardses plan a meal schedule with friends who camp nearby. “One family cooks for the other families one night each,” she says. “This makes planning and packing easier and cheaper because you only need ingredients for one meal. The families also go in together to rent a boat for a day. By splitting the price, it is affordable and our kids would probably say it’s the most fun thing we do.” Amanda Harmon, her husband Mark, and their four children often share a home with friends and family members in order to keep the cost of their vacations down. One year, when the Harmons went to Disney World, they shared a home, cooked Tried and True Travel Tips their own meals – as well as shared meals – and • Begin planning very early. ended up spending just around $400 for the • Check out travel books week on accommodations. from the library. If the budget is extremely tight, consider • Reserve early. vacationing in Columbia. Every day plan a • Compare prices. “trip” to a Columbia destination. There are • Utilize the many online endless parks to choose from, including travel services. downtown’s Finlay Park or Irmo’s Saluda • Avoid buying items at Shoals Park, as well as the Riverwalk for tourist shops. picnics, bike riding, play time and even • Use public transportation kayaking and tubing. There is also the when possible. Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Gardens, • Check to see if there is a EdVenture, The State Museum, The Plex for food voucher package for ice skating and indoor sports, and bowling and some trips. roller skating. Just 20 miles from Columbia • Use a credit card to is the Conagree National Park for fishing, accumulate frequent flyer kayaking, hiking and canoeing. and hotel miles. Each summer, the Edwards family plans a camping trip to a state park. w w w. c o l u m b i a m e t ro . c o m
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palmetto business
Columbia Navigates Good to Great Chamber of Commerce initiative works to make Columbia a better place to live By Robin Cowie Nalepa
T
hree little words strung together form a simple concept: good to great. Apply that simple concept to something, anything — a business, a life, even a community — and transform it from just fine to fantastic. Nearly five years ago some local movers and shakers decided it was time to apply the idea to the Columbia metropolitan area. They wanted others to see Columbia as more than just a
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government town, with resources and opportunity following the interstates elsewhere. By identifying problems, bringing the right people to the table and capitalizing on the momentum created by incremental success, the Navigating from Good to Great program, led by the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce, has made progress in changing perspective and the businessas-usual mentality.
A Good Idea for Progress In his book, Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap ... And Others Don’t, Jim Collins decries fear, money and drastic change as the catalysts to greatness. Instead, according to the author, the keys to making a business, or anything else, great hinge on people and momentum. He found, after studying thousands of companies over many decades, that the formula for sustained and significant
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success equals the right people and and the Foundation’s initial fundraiser, political arena, but this is data driven,” was hired as the senior vice president says John. steady effort. Grant’s focus on community The book’s conclusions resonated for business retention and expansion programs. C. Grant Jackson, the former development and quality of life issues with Columbia business leaders. In 2006, coming off the Base business editor at The State newspaper, attracts and retains people to the area Realignment and Closure battles and was hired as the senior vice president and also helps drive the economy. His work helps spotlight initiatives from eventual wins, the Chamber, led by for community development. Some might assume that John and clean air to leveraging a knowledge Ike McLeese, decided it was time to identify major missions beyond the Grant were hired as fixers, solving economy, from energy collaboratives the problems as identified. However, to riverfront development. He’s also typical. Key chamber members and area both men are quick to say the role of worked to help people view Columbia decision makers identified initiatives Good to Great is that of “initiator” and as more than the city and embrace a that could positively impact the “convener.” Their jobs, they say, are to regional perspective to our Famously Midlands and set about a five-year bring people together and open dialog Hot home. plan for progress. Those who originally on the issues. John communicates with existing Young Talent invested in the plan included most A third member of the team, of the area banks, major employers, businesses and gives them a voice. In commercial real estate firms, SCE&G two years of working in partnership Katherine Swartz, came on board in and some small business members. with the City of Columbia’s retention 2010. As the chamber’s vice president With $3.5 million in pledges, including and expansion program Business in for leadership developm ent and $100,000 each year for the last three Motion, he and Ryan Coleman from e x e c u t i v e d i r e c t o r o f Co l u m b i a years from the city of Columbia, the city have met with more than O p p o r t u n i t y R e s o u r c e ( C O R ) , The Navigating from Good to Great 250 local businesses to collect vital Katherine is leading efforts to attract, Foundation was established to focus information and fill out questionnaires engage and retain talent in Columbia. COR originally began as an attention on specific areas, including about their needs and wants. The data transportation, workforce, business is synthesized and shared with county all-volunteer, non-profit organization in 2005. Though it is still a non-profit, clustering, riverfront development, and city councils. “You get a lot of opinion in the now COR is a strategic partner with business and talent retention programs and inter-regional cooperation among public and private sectors. “ Th e p r o g r a m is aimed at making our community a better place to work and live and raise a family,” says Ted S p e t h , ch a i r m a n of the Navigating from Good to Great Foundation. “Trying to get everyone focused and working together is what Good to Great is all about.” Th e Ch a m b e r knew for it to work, the foundation would require a team which (L to R) Nicole Curtis, director of communications, Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce; Ted Speth, chairman, Navigating understood the from Good to Great Foundation; C. Grant Jackson, senior vice president of community development, Navigating from Good mission. John Mikula, to Great Foundation; John Mikula, senior vice president of business retention and expansion, Navigating from Good to Great a former consultant Foundation. Photo courtesy Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce.
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By
identifying problems , bringing the right people to the table and capitalizing on the momentum created by incremental success , the N avigating from G ood to Great program, led by the Greater Columbia C hamber of C ommerce , has made progress in changing perspective and the business-asusual mentality. the Chamber and the Navigating from Good to Great Foundation. In fact, under Katherine’s short tenure, COR relaunched in 2011 honing its focus on community involvement, leadership development and promoting Columbia to those aged 19 to 45. Interestingly, Katherine herself was an example of the historical Columbia b r a i n - d r a i n , w h i ch l e a d s y o u n g professionals and graduating students to leave the city for areas they perceive have more to offer. Raised here and a graduate of USC, Katherine left for Atlanta as a young adult and lived there for eight years. “I felt like I had maxed out my opportunity in Columbia when I was 22,” says Katherine. Now she hopes COR can help show young professionals the region offers more than they imagine. “Columbians have a lot of passion for their community,” says Katherine. “What’s going to take us to great is more people putting action behind their words.” Momentum and Challenges In the four years of the Good to Great campaign, businesses, government and community partnerships appear to be resulting in incremental success. And investors continue to believe in the program despite the downturned economy. In a time when many businesses are reevaluating where to put their dollars and which programs to support, less than four percent of those who invest with Good to Great have altered their
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commitments, according to John Mikula. “ Th a t ’ s a t e s t i m o n y t o t h e community and their support of this great start to changing this community to a great community,” he says. Some results are tangible, while others are harder to measure. Businesses like Nucor Building Systems in Swansea are linking with area high schools to build a workforce. The steel and metal building manufacturer uses trained welders and CAD operators, but had a small talent pool in the area from which to recruit. Good to Great connected the business with area schools. Programs were launched to expose students to design and welding and to educate teachers of the potential career path. After three years, the workforce pipeline has grown and more students are interested in the industry, according to Ike McLeese. Colleges and universities are getting into the act by understanding business clusters that exist in our area, like insurance technology. The Midlands is one of the leading insurance technology hubs in the country, with large corporations like Blue Cross Blue Shield and small proprietorships peppering the region. With the help of Good to Great, Neil McLean and New Carolina: South Carolina’s Council on Competitiveness helped make educational institutions more aware of this opportunity, and they now are able to better inform and prepare students for this career field, while helping to serve the needs of this business sector.
Perhaps one of the areas Good to Great principals feel most proud of is their involvement with the creation of the Midlands Housing Alliance’s Transitions, a program and center to assist the region’s homeless population. For years the homeless issue has plagued the city. Agreement and buy-in from certain sectors was elusive. Now the effort and spirit of cooperation is marked by concrete results at the corner of Main and Elmwood. Transitions opened in May, and the Good to Great team says they were proud to be a partner in that effort. Poor inter-government relations have plagued the region for as long as many can remember. “There was a d i v i d e b e t w e e n R i ch l a n d a n d Lexington counties which prohibited our ability to grow,” says Ted Speth. He thinks Good to Great helped people understand the river is not a wall that divides the area. Ted hopes that with Richland and Lexington counties working more closely together, the us-versus-them mentality can evolve into agreement, resulting in progress for the region. Additionally, Good to Great efforts helped establish The M I D STATE Chambers Coalition in early 2011. The group includes members from 19 chambers of commerce in 11 counties, including Richland and Lexington counties, collectively working for business retention and public policy. Good to Great is entering its fifth year of work. While success is evident, there are still areas of opportunity, including transportation, riverfront development and trained workforce for the 21st century, says Ike McLeese. But incremental progress is how momentum builds, how change occurs and how good communities become great regions. “There is always more we can do to make this a better community for business and families,” says Grant Jackson. “It’s a journey in moving the community forward.”
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palmetto business
(L to R) John LaFond, a local SCORE mentor, helped Donald Benson make a good business decision by buying an already-existing location of AAMCO Transmissions in Lexington.
SCORE One for Business The mentors of SCORE propel entrepreneurs toward business success By Rosanne McDowell / Photography by Jeff Amberg
I
t might be the best hour you’ve ever spent — if you’re contemplating an entrepreneurial venture or scouting expert counsel for your present small business. Volunteer mentors at the Midlands
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ch a p t e r o f S C O R E , Co u n s e l o r s to America’s Small Business (to give the organization’s official name), will sit down with aspiring or existing entrepreneurs, usually in one-hour counseling sessions, work to help them
understand their business challenges and send them home with sound advice. It’s all free and, of course, entirely confidential. “We like to think of it as free business counseling for life,” says Bill
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SCORE’ s serv i ce ,
the financials together. John helped me through the process of narrowing my choices down. Because of his really great business background, he was able to lend a lot of real-world experience to this process.” According to Donald, one of the decisions John helped him with involved whether to start a new business or purchase an alreadyexisting one. After analyzing the financials, they concluded that it made more sense for him to buy an already-existing business, and he purchased AAMCO Transmissions of Lexington in late 2005. Donald adds, “I still run things by John from time to time, as I did when I was renegotiating my lease.” As Donald knows from experience, John has earned a reputation as a go-to guy for business planning, financial analysis and financing. John says that he receives a lot of gratification when somebody gives him a draft of a business plan. “I go through with a red pen,” he says, “and comment and edit it until it’s right. Nobody gets it right the first time. And most people don’t have a clue how to construct a good financial analysis, which is the last section of any good business plan. The exception was Donald Benson. Donald already had this stuff down cold from his previous professional experience. I became a sounding board for him, a sort of one-person support group. He changed directions two or three times, and what he ended up buying was nothing like what he started out looking at, but he’s making progress and doing well.” Not everyone has time for a face-to-face mentoring appointment with SCORE, so the organization has created
mentors provide an outstanding a n d t h e co l l ec t i v e w e a lt h o f knowledge they have is just invaluable. Most businesses fail in the first five years. SCORE can help you beat the odds. Donald Benson, owner AAMCO Transmissions, Lexington
Whitehead, chairman of the Midlands chapter, “because there’s no limit to how often or how long a client may come to us for help.” A resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration, SCORE has been around since 1964 and was created by an act of Congress as a national volunteer group to aid small businesses. During its nearly 50-year history, SCORE as a national unit has served more than nine million clients and presently has over 13,000 volunteers and 350 chapters across America. The Midlands chapter, founded in the mid 1970s, covers about 36 percent of South Carolina in nine locations. Fifty-five volunteers with broad professional, executive and small-business experience offer mentoring, workshops (some with a modest fee), speakers and roundtable facilitation. Volunteers are mostly retired businesspeople, although the number of still-working younger volunteers is growing. SCORE’s mission: giving practical underpinnings to dreams, putting running shoes on terrific ideas, attaching realistic numbers and a plan to visions. In short, SCORE volunteers call on their expertise, energy and past experiences to assist clients in implementing proven business practices to accomplish their business goals. Necessities like developing a business plan, legal organization, financing, accounting, marketing and selling, licensing and many other topics form the substance of SCORE’s services, all served up by committed counselors who act as kind and down-to-earth sounding boards. • FREE personal business counseling and mentoring Donald Benson came to SCORE in early • The respect and confidential advice of professional 2005 with the hope of owning his own business. businessmen and women “I went to SCORE because of George • Practical ideas from people “who have been there” McIntosh, a local SCORE mentor and a fellow and made a success of it church member. I was talking about buying a • Nonconfrontational discussions, like talking to business, and he said, ‘Maybe our group can help you. I think maybe John LaFond would be trusted friends and family a good person for you to talk to.’ He had John • Counselors who are experts or have access to get in touch with me, and over the course of experts on business issues six to eight months, John and I looked at 35 to • Help in defining and analyzing your needs and 40 businesses. We talked several times a week, then help in finding solutions went over the businesses — what looked good about them and what didn’t — and we’d review
SCORE offers…
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an online counseling service. In their online sessions, SCORE mentors might counsel clients from any of the 50 states, and more than one option is available for these clients to receive their online mentoring. Clients can go to the local SCORE website and send in an email to request the service, then SCORE assigns a local volunteer for online mentoring. Or clients can go to the national site and request online mentoring from there. Online mentors have their business biographies listed on the site, and people can pick out whatever mentor they want to contact for help, based on these biographies. Bill Whitehead, who has mentored people from as far away as California online, offers yet another means of receiving SCORE’s counsel. “People can also go to the SCORE blog on our national website. Our volunteers moderate this site, read through the questions and offer input, so a business owner could receive maybe 30 to 40 answers to a pressing question and get a lot of different perspectives from people who have experience.” In one of Bill’s most satisfying online-mentoring encounters, a counselee from another state had a great idea for a state-of-the-art Internet-based product and seemed extremely competent and creative from a technical perspective. “But,” says Bill, “he didn’t seem to know how to go about focusing for the purpose of developing a strategy and marketing plan. This was impacting his ability to get funding, because to get funding you have to put things down in a logical, orderly fashion. I was able to help the client focus and get things written in a manner that was useful in procuring funding. Last time I communicated with him, the project was going forward and looked like it was going to be successful.” Bill emphasizes the usefulness of SCORE’s free online video workshops for those who cannot attend them live, as well. Recalling his own journey to successful entrepreneurship, Donald Benson affirms, “SCORE’s mentors provide an outstanding service, and the collective wealth of knowledge they have is invaluable. Most businesses fail in the first five years. SCORE can help you beat the odds.” SCORE offers free one-hour mentoring sessions at the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce in downtown Columbia and at other locations. Call (803) 765-5131 or visit SCORE online at www.scoremidlands.org for further information on its wide range of client services.
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spread the word
Monte N. Parsons
Tigerron A. Wells
Steven J. Pugh
Susan D. DuBose
Robert L. Brown
Melissa Lyerly
Beronica Whisnant
Paul Hartley, Jr.
Jeff Hein
Roger Winn
Charles S. Gwynne
Steven T. Moon
Lauren S. Thurmond
Michael Graham
Robert Thomas
Angela Kirby
Bryan Barnes
Cindy Nixon-Witt
Rita Cullum
Tom Runge
Margaret Gregory
Bob Horner
Ike McLeese
Nicole Curtis
Carl L. Solomon of the Solomon Law Group has been named a South Carolina Lawyers Weekly 2011 Leadership in Law winner and a 2011 South Carolina Super Lawyer. Drew Coleman of Mashburn Construction has earned the designation of Construction Supervisor from Project SuperVISION®. IT-oLogy has been named 2011 Business Partner of the Year by the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce and the Midlands Education & Business Alliance. Monte N. Parsons has rejoined the South Carolina Chapter of The Nature Conservancy. Clint Hammond, loan officer with Mortgage Network, has earned Certified Mortgage Planning Specialist distinction. Nexsen Pruet has been named a 2011 Midlands Green Business. Tigerron A. (Tiger) Wells of Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd has received the 2011 Jonathan Jasper Wright Award from USC’s Black Law Students Association. Steven J. Pugh of Richardson w w w. c o l u m b i a m e t ro . c o m
Plowden has been named a South Carolina Lawyers Weekly 2011 Leadership in Law winner. George Beighley has been named a member of the MUSC Board of Visitors. Gene Matthews, Frank Smith and Nelson Weston have been named 2011 South Carolina Super Lawyers.
Michael Graham has been re-elected to the board and executive committee. Robert Thomas and Angela Kirby have been named 2011 South Carolina Super Lawyers. Bryan Barnes has been invited to join the International Association of Defense Counsel.
Susan Drake DuBose and Robert L. Brown have joined Baker, Ravenel & Bender as associates.
Cindy Nixon-Witt has been named director of philanthropy for Healthy Learners.
Melissa Lyerly has joined NAI Avant as marketing and public relations director. Beronica Whisnant, CCIM, SIOR, has joined the office brokerage group. Paul Hartley, Jr., SIOR, has been named 2010 Top Leasing Agent at the Central Carolina REALTORS® Association Circle of Excellence Commercial Division banquet. Jeff Hein, SIOR, Roger Winn and Bruce Harper, SIOR, have received the award for 2010 Commercial Transaction of the Year. Paul Hartley, Jr., Jeff Hein, Nick Stomski, Mac Fanning, Ben Kelly, Cam Kreps, Rob Lapin, Macon Lovelace, Gerald Steele, Joe Walker and Roger Winn have been named to the Circle of Excellence.
The Columbia Chapter of Ducks Unlimited has been named one of DU’s Top 100 Chapters.
Charles S. Gwynne, Jr., Steven T. Moon and Lauren S. Thurmond have been named shareholders of Rogers Townsend & Thomas.
Rita Cullum and Tom Runge of Ellis Lawhorne have been named South Carolina Lawyers Weekly 2011 Leadership in Law winners. Rita Cullum has been named chair of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel’s SC Chapter. The American Advertising Federation of the Midlands has awarded the Silver Medal to Margaret Gregory, who has served as president of AAF of the Midlands and also filled roles as ADDY Gala chair, secretary and treasurer, and currently serves as Governor of AAF District 3. Chernoff Newman has received Gold and Silver ADDY® Awards. EdVenture Children’s Museum has received a Silver ADDY. George
Fulton Productions has received a Silver ADDY. Mad Monkey Inc. has received Silver ADDYs. undefined magazine has received a Gold ADDY. AAF of the Midlands has received a Silver ADDY. Bob Horner of Sowell Gray Stepp & Laffitte, has been named to the board of directors of Town Theatre. Ike McLeese, president and CEO of the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce, has been reappointed as a civilian aide to the Secretary of the Army. Nicole Curtis has joined the Chamber as director of communications. Dan Dennis, president of Dennis Corporation, has been named the Small Business Administration’s 2011 South Carolina Small Business Person of the Year. Kenneth J. Carter, Jr., John E. Cuttino, Catherine H. Kennedy, Curtis L. Ott, Thomas C. Salane and Franklin G. Shuler, Jr. of Turner Padget Graham & Laney have been named 2011 South Carolina Super Lawyers. The firm has been named a leading litigation firm in South Carolina in the 2012 edition of Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business. Wm. Bert Brannon of Moses Koon C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n 59
Jeff Davis
Rhonda Falin
Rusty Goudelock
Tommy Lydon
Hugh McAngus
Francis P. Mood
Laurie Grooms
Cardell Wilson
Bobbi Newman
Montague Thompson
Fatima Muhammad
Chandni Amin
Malissa Burnette
Pamela Stoy
Emmanuel Taylor
Marie Dieckmann
& Brackett has been named a 2011 South Carolina Super Lawyer. Jeff Davis has joined Davis Public Relations and Marketing as vice president. The agency has received the overall Best in Show Mercury Award from the SC Public Relations Society of America. The agency also has received a Mercury award, an Award of Merit and a Silver Wing Award. Katie Alice Walker has received an Award of Merit. Rhonda Falin has joined the Lexington office of Southern First Bank as a teller. Rusty Goudelock, Tommy Lydon and Hugh McAngus of McAngus Goudelock & Courie have been named 2011 South Carolina Super Lawyers. F. Earl Ellis, Jr., Ernest G. Lawhorne, John F. Beach, Wesley D. Few, John T. Lay, Jr., John L. McCants, Karen Hudson Thomas and David C. Sojourner, Jr. of Ellis Lawhorne have been selected as 2011 South Carolina Super Lawyers. Edward W. Mullins, Jr. of Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough has been named a South Carolina Lawyers Weekly 2011 Leadership in Law winner. Thad Westbrook has received the USC School of Law’s 2011 Compleat Lawyer award. Stuart M. Andrews, Jr., George S. Bailey, C. Mitchell Brown, George B. Cauthen, David E. Dukes, Debbie W. Durban, Carl B. Epps, III, Robert W. Foster, Jr., James C. Gray, Jr., Sue Erwin Harper, William C. Hubbard, Francis B.B. 60 C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n
Knowlton, John F. Kuppens, Steven A. McKelvey, John T. Moore, Stephen G. Morrison, Edward W. Mullins, Jr., R. Bruce Shaw and Daniel J. Westbrook have been named 2011 South Carolina Super Lawyers. Francis P. Mood has rejoined Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd. William C. Boyd, Frank W. Cureton, J. Donald Dial, Jr., Randolph B. Epting, Manton M. Grier, John B. McArthur, Stanley H. McGuffin, Tara E. Nauful, William H. Short, Jr. and Benton D. Williamson have been named 2011 South Carolina Super Lawyers. Michael M. Beal, Elizabeth M. Crum, Erik P. Doerring, M. Craig Garner, Jr., Celeste T. Jones and Richard J. Morgan of McNair Law Firm have been named 2011 South Carolina Super Lawyers. The firm has been rated the No. 1 Bond Counsel in South Carolina by The Bond Buyer. Gene Allen, Henry Brown, David Dubberly, Vickie Eslinger, William Floyd, Susi McWilliams, Rick Mendoza, Billy Newsome and Marguerite Willis of Nexsen Pruet have been named 2011 South Carolina Super Lawyers. Allstate agency owner Laurie Grooms has received the Honor Ring award. Jeffrey B. Wheeler, president and chief operating officer for Coldwell Banker United, Realtors® in the Carolinas, has announced his retirement. Glenn R. Niere has been appointed to replace him. Irvin Mumford, Melinda Shumpert, Cardell Wilson and Sandra Espinoza have
joined the agency’s Midlands offices as sales associates. Danny and Karen Hood have been named the number one team in the state for 2010. Ashley Cook has been named director of marketing for Lake Carolina, Hallmark Homes International and Inspired Communities. Drew Stevens and David Perkins have been awarded the Pacesetter 40 award by Northwestern Mutual. Girl Scouts of South Carolina - Mountains to Midlands have honored Mickey E. Layden, Bridget Lytton and Donita Todd with Women of Distinction Awards. Bobbi Newman has joined Richland County Public Library as staff learning engagement manager. Montague Thompson has been named Adult Volunteer of the Year. Fatimah Muhammad has been named Teen Volunteer of the Year. Chandni Amin has been named Junior Volunteer of the Year. Richard Webster has been inducted into the Volunteer Hall of Fame. Jim Boylston, Cynthia Busbee, Bill Higgins, Calvin Smith, Ruby Smith, David Stagg, Ashley Tucker and Cordelia Wilson have been recognized with 2010 President’s Volunteer Service Awards. Malissa Burnette of Callison Tighe & Robinson has been named a 2011 Super Lawyer. Beth Baldauf, Mandi Engram, Lindsey Spires Griffin, Courtney Herring, Gregory Hilton, Katherine Robinson Hutton, Chakisse Newton,
Katie Wilmesherr Rantin, Khush Tat, Sara Tipton and Anna Katherine Ward have received 2010 President’s Volunteer Service Awards, given by Columbia Opportunity Resource. Pamela Stoy has been named director of sales and marketing for the Radisson Hotel Columbia & Conference Center. The Historic Columbia Foundation has given the Historic Township Auditorium the 2011 New Construction in Historic Context award for major renovations and improvements made to the 80 year old structure. Emmanuel Taylor, RN, has been named 2011 Employee of the Year by Palmetto Health Richland. Marie Dieckmann has been named an associate in the office brokerage team CB Richard Ellis|Columbia. Palmetto Health has received NICHE (Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders) certification. Boeing and South Carolina Electric & Gas have announced an energy partnership that will enable Boeing South Carolina to operate as a 100 percent renewable energy site. John S. Nichols of Bluestein, Nichols, Thompson and Delgado has been named a 2011 South Carolina Super Lawyer. Tony Cates has joined Southern Visions Realty as marketing communications specialist. j u n e 2011
getting down to business with
Travinia Italian Kitchen
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leaming glass fronted kitchens let you watch in anticipation as Travinia’s expert kitchen staff handcrafts every delicious meal. Because at Travinia, the more you know about the way every dish is made from scratch using only the freshest ingredients, the more you’ll want to come back. Unlike some Italian eateries, Travinia serves much more than just delicious pasta. Succulent steaks and tender veal chops are featured on our menu. Mussels and other seafood are flown in from North Coast Seafood of Boston. Enjoy a Tuscan Chopped Salad, Pine Nut Encrusted Salmon or Seafood Pescatora. In the mood for a steak? Savor a grilled Angus filet with a Madeira wine demi-glaze. But just because Travinia w w w. c o l u m b i a m e t ro . c o m
features so much more than pasta doesn’t mean you should resist delectable dishes like Pappardelle pasta finished with a vodka and tomato infusion with prosciutto, fresh parmesan and delicate cream. And for those of you who are on a gluten-free diet, just ask your server for our gluten-free menu with delicious entrees that taste to good to be true. Some may argue that Travinia saves the best for last. The decadent Tiramisu, Italian Cream Cake and other scratch made desserts will definitely make you want to linger over a flavored cappuccino. It’s not just the mouthwatering menu that keeps guests coming back. The cosmopolitan wine bar lets you relax with a glass of wine surrounded by warm stone, polished wood and the cozy glow of amber SPE C IAL AD V ERTISING SE C TION
lights. Travinia offers over 55 wines by the glass and premium brand liquors, all at a surprisingly reasonable price. When it comes to special occasions, both the Sparkleberry and Lexington locations are perfect for large parties, and both locations feature beautiful private rooms for more intimate gatherings. You can enjoy the taste of Travinia anywhere with our full-service catering service, making every event truly special. Dine to the sultry sounds of Sinatra or live jazz and enjoy the perfect blend of handcrafted food, changing menus, extensive wine bar, five-star service and casual ambience. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that Travinia is such a neighborhood favorite. C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n 61
getting down to business with
(L to R) Andrew Schweiger, Dr. Angela Schweiger
Rice Creek Family Dentistry
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ersonalized, comfortable, meticulous, unhurried dental care for adults and children – that’s what Dr. Angela Schweiger and her team provide at Rice Creek Family Dentistry in Columbia. Dr. Schweiger’s approach to dental care is a bit different than that of some dentists. She is committed to always giving you and your family as much time as you need with her at your appointment. This thorough approach helps ensure that you’re always comfortable in the dental chair and satisfied with the care you receive. You’re never billed for this extra time - it’s simply a part of how things are done at Rice Creek.
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The outgoing, caring and friendly staff members at Rice Creek will always make you feel welcome whenever you call or visit. They will go out of their way to ensure that you are completely comfortable at your dental visits, alleviating any anxiety you might experience. It’s their goal to get to know you on a personal level, and they will always take the time to discuss your dental care with you. The Columbia office was professionally designed to provide you with a warm, inviting and soothing environment that feels like home. Children can enjoy playing in the kids’ corner of the waiting
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area and watch cartoons while in the dental chair. Adults can feel relaxed as they enjoy calming music or their favorite television show while receiving treatment. From digital X-rays to 3D CAD/CAM impressions, the latest in dental technology ensures that you receive comfortable, cutting-edge dental care. If you’re new to the area, or just looking for a new dental home, give Rice Creek a call today. They will help bring your mouth to optimal health and then do everything they can to ensure that it stays that way for years to come. They’re looking forward to meeting you and your family!
j u n e 2011
getting down to business with
Planning
Installation
Your Enjoyment
Hay Hill Services
Wh a t m a k e s Ha y H i l l different?
The team at Hay Hill Services has a passion…A passion to exceed your expectations, putting quality above everything else. How do they do this? Hay Hill has long learned that to ensure quality you must first have a hand in the entire process — every aspect of your project is handled by Hay Hill employees, never subcontractors. Every Hay Hill employee understands they should be continually improving their skills. Pulling in the talents of years of landscaping experience and knowing the newest products, designs and horticultural advancements ensures quality without question. Hay Hill knows it takes extremely creative people to create unique landscape design. With each new landscape design and installation, they give their clients
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a one of a kind experience, never duplicating a project.
The Design Process
Every Hay Hill design is unique, one of a kind, and never duplicated, all thanks to a superb group of architects and their ability to work with clients to achieve a custom design that best fits their needs and tastes. A thorough and actionable landscape plan is necessary for projects both large and small. Hay Hill’s skilled landscape architects will stay with a project from the initial design consultation to installation; bringing clients’ landscape vision into a living, functional and enjoyable reality. The master plan is a vehicle for all parties involved to see the final vision and to move towards it in a systematic and productive way. With a comprehensive master plan, you
may implement your project all at once or in phases. A well conceived master plan from Hay Hill reinforces the vision and investment their clients are making in their property.
The Installation Process
When the design has been achieved, the talented construction team will transform any property into a beautiful outdoor living space. Like a finely tuned orchestra with each section and instrument knowing exactly when and how to play, the Hay Hill installation process can be quite amazing as they execute each step with accuracy and precision. You will enjoy the personalized service that Hay Hill consistently delivers. Hay Hill doesn’t just leave after the project is completed, they can then provide seasonal maintenance as needed to keep your project looking its best.
“When Quality Matters” – Fred Gantt www.hayhillservices.com 803.874.3303 SPE C IAL AD V ERTISING SE C TION
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getting down to business with
(L to R) Eric Vansant, Tommy Mason, Tripp Penninger and Trey Gibson provide three home delivery routes.
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Tripp’s Fine Cleaners
ince 1967, when C.B. and Elsie Penninger first opened Penninger’s One Hour Martinizing, the Penninger family has helped the residents of the Midlands look their best. For three generations, they have remained committed to that first mission statement: Provide exceptional quality cleaning, finishing and superior customer service at affordable prices. In 1974, Chet Penninger, son of C.B. and Elsie, changed the name to Tripp’s Fine Cleaners. Today, Tripp’s Fine Cleaners provides full service drycleaning, executive shirt service and alterations from 12 convenient locations in the Midlands. The company also operates four production facilities, three home delivery routes, a commercial cleaning route and a textile restoration division, with over 90 employees dedicated to providing superior quality and excellent customer service. “We take a lot of pride in our work, and try to ensure that our customers get the quality they expect and deserve
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from a full service drycleaner,” says Tripp Penninger, grandson of the company’s founders. He adds, “There are a lot of competitors in the Midlands. We work very hard to distinguish ourselves. Our employees are well trained and educated in the care of fine garments and fabrics. We use the best soaps, solvents and equipment available to the industry. We do not take short cuts. Our internal expenses may be higher as a result, but we believe the quality resulting from this approach is what keeps our customers coming back.” Tripp’s Fine Cleaners is the only Sanitone Certified Master Drycleaner in the Midlands and has been voted the Best of Columbia in various publication polls each year since 1992. Tripp’s Fine Cleaners also prides itself on its community support programs. In 1995, Tripp began Tripp’s Coats for Kids, a campaign that has cleaned and provided over 35,000 coats to residents of the Midlands who otherwise may have done without. Tripp’s also supports the various
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efforts of The American Red Cross, The Boys and Girls Club of the Midlands, The Salvation Army and The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, as well as many other local athletic leagues, schools and churches. “The Columbia community has been very good to our business, our employees and our family,” says Tripp. “We are a family business and Columbia is our home, and we think it is important to stay involved with and loyal to the community by supporting programs that help make Columbia such an outstanding city.” When asked about the future of Tripp’s Fine Cleaners, Tripp says, “We will expand as the market dictates, but we will always stay true to our roots by providing exceptional quality cleaning, finishing and superior customer service at affordable prices. We will also continue being a strong, loyal supporter of our employees and our community. As long as we maintain that course, being a successful family business for another three generations will take care of itself.”
j u n e 2011
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carolina community
Flying on a LARK
A LARKS member prepares his plane for flying.
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Radio controlled airplanes take hobbyists to new heights By Sam Morton / Photography by Robert Clark
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hose daring young men and their flying machines have taken to the skies over Lexington, but the planes are about the size of a desktop and the pilots – men and women, young and old – are firmly ensconced on the ground, radio controllers in hand. These are members of LARKS, Lexington Radio Controlled Flyers, and they take the hobby of model airplanes to an entirely new level. LARKS member Dr. Matt “Doc” Miller was a late convert from a more expensive hobby — playing and collecting guitars. “I’d seen my dad go to flying sessions,” he says. “He had all gasoline-powered planes and every time he would come home it would take two hours to clean up his equipment. But then one time when I went to visit him in Florida, we saw some people using planes that flew on batteries, so I finally went with him to fly.” About two years ago, Doc bought his first plane that charges from a charging pack on the ground before it takes off for the sky. That was 24 months and 37 — yes 37 — planes ago! Not that anybody is counting — okay,
(L to R) Charles Youngblood, Matt “Doc” Miller and Paul Bass
Doc is counting — but he has one of the greatest number of planes in the entire LARKS membership. “Most people have about 10 planes, but naturally I had to have more planes than a human being should have,” he says. He can be a tad bit competitive. The great thing about LARKS is that anybody can
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join. Its youngest member is around 12 years old, and its oldest member, Bob Hannon, is 84 and an honorary life member. RC flying is not expensive, at least comparable to other hobbies. “For about $100 to $150, you can get a plane that will fly and get you started. My most expensive plane cost about $300,” he says. Then again, he is a collector, and he likes to accumulate unique planes, some custom designed, that you can’t walk into a hobby shop and buy. Once you’re into it, like any other hobby as far as expense is concerned, “The sky’s the limit,” Doc says. No pun intended, he says, but we beg to differ. Every Saturday that he’s able, Doc is out at the field flying. He’s one of the “early boys.” “About seven or eight other guys and I get there at sun up. We fly until the ‘gasser’ guys show up around noon.” He calls some of the older guys “gassers” because they still fly those gasoline-powered contraptions, but the good-humored Doc has an answer for that. He’s having t-shirts printed with the words, “I fly electric because I don’t want my plane to sound like a weedeater.” Did we mention he’s a tad bit competitive? Besides the philosophical t-shirt, Doc also says the group has another saying: “If you’re afraid you’re going to crash, don’t fly.” Everyone eventually crashes, some more than others. That’s why any number of LARKS members can help repair broken planes. They are a family and their saying is as much a metaphor for life as it is a catchy phrase.
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photo courtesy richland county sheriff’s department
Deputy Marcus Kim, Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott and Columbia Police Chief Randy Scott discuss the A.I.R. program at a press conference.
Eye in the Sky R
adio controlled aircraft are not just for hobbyists. This technology is helping to combat crime without endangering law enforcement officers. On March 22, Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott unveiled the newest addition to his department’s arsenal in making our communities safer – A.I.R.: Aerial Intelligence and Response. Radio controlled technology makes intelligence gathering, surveillance, search and rescue or special responses to critical incidents much easier. Sheriff Lott demonstrated the new technology that will be used to capture criminals, gather intelligence and search for missing persons or suspects, among many other uses. What makes it such a valuable tool is the powerful camera mounted under the helicopter carriage. Officers viewing monitors get to see whatever the camera sees, though it may be behind a building, over a fence or in the bushes several yards from where they are. The sheriff says, “Radio controlled technology has become more trustworthy, more reliable and less expensive, and it allows for rapid deployment of an asset that will save time, money and lives. This new equipment gives the department an edge in the fight against crime.” More importantly it can identify dangers in the community without putting human beings at risk. Deputy Marcus Kim, a former international consultant to RC manufacturers and professional RC helicopter pilot for 13 years, is spearheading the program for the department. Marcus will work closely with the Special Response Team and Criminal Investigations Division utilizing this technology.
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One member who is not likely to crash is Charles Youngblood, past president of the LARKS and an RC pilot with more than two decades’ experience. Charles always had a love of flying but the cost of taking flying lessons was prohibitive. By chance he saw a magazine article about RC planes and looked into it. He was hooked. Charles has a specialized skill: acrobatic flying. “It’s tailored after full scale flying. The same rules and regulations apply for making the planes fly in precise directions and execute precise maneuvers, with a few exceptions.” Charles’s wife is an acrobatic flying judge and head score keeper. It was not his wife but his skill that made him the Sportsman regional champion. At the yearly regional competition, the top 10 pilots from each class are invited to compete against each other. And Charles outmaneuvered everyone in his class to become the 2010 Regional Sportsman winner. He was even a featured attraction at one of the Monster Jam truck shows at The Colonial Life Arena. We learned that getting into the hobby isn’t expensive, but what are the chances that a new pilot is not going to nose dive his hundred-dollar plane into the ground and break it? Charles says that LARKS has a way around that. “The first few times you come out to the field, you’ll have an instructor. We have a way to ‘buddy-box’ the controllers together so at some point I can flip a switch and give you control.” Charles says it takes an adult about four or five times to master takeoff and landing. “But the kids,” he says, “they get it probably the first or second time.” Many groups organized around hobbies provide excellent opportunities for food and fellowship, and LARKS is no exception. Tuesday night is instructional flying night and somewhere amidst the buzz of the aircraft, somebody breaks out a grill, burgers and hot dogs. The camaraderie is the most appealing thing about LARKS to its current president, Paul Bass. “I just enjoy everybody’s company,” he says. “A guy has to sit down and gab somewhere. I’m not from here, so I don’t have family nearby. These guys are like my family away from family.” Every group needs a leader, someone to set policy, determine direction and set the rules, and by all accounts Paul makes a good one. But he’s humble about it. “Our membership decides what happens in the group.” He finds leadership among his close friends an easy task. “Everything we do is decided by vote.” For more information on LARKS or for information on how to get started on RC flying, log on to www.larksrc.com. j u n e 2011
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top Dentists
topDentists™ in the Midlands Columbia Metropolitan magazine is honored to present the Midlands dentists named to the 2011 topDentists™ list. This list is provided to us exclusively from topDentists™, LLC, an Augusta, Ga. company with more than 40 years of experience compiling peer-reviewed guides in the legal, dental and medical fields. “If you had a patient in need of a dentist, to which dentist would you refer them?” This is the question topDentists™ asked thousands of dentists and specialists to help determine who should be included on the 2011 list. Respondents are asked to take into consideration years of experience, continuing education, manner with patients, use of new techniques and technologies and, of course, physical results. The nomination pool consists of dentists listed online with the American Dental Association, as well as all dentists listed online with their local dental societies, allowing virtually every dentist the opportunity to participate. Dentists are also given the opportunity to nominate other dentists who may have been missed who they feel should be included in this list. Respondents are asked to put aside any personal bias or political motivations and to use only their knowledge of their peers’ works when evaluating the other nominees. Those dentists who withstand the company’s vetting process are then added to the list. No one pays Columbia Metropolitan or topDentists™ to be included. In fact, because dentists must be voted on strictly by their peers and virtually every dentist is given an opportunity to particpate, inclusion in topDentists™ is considered to be a distinct honor.
Endodontics Todd R. Barrett Palmetto Endodontics 4023 Forest Drive Columbia, SC 29204-4313 (803) 782-7722 www.palettoendodontics.com Matthew D. Evans Midlands Endodontics 108 Palmetto Park Boulevard, Suite F Lexington, SC 29072-7969 (803) 808-1110 W. Trent Gillespie 618 Ott Road Columbia, SC 29205-2722 (803) 256-1156
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Robert J. Gohean Carolina Endodontics 130 Stonemark Lane Columbia, SC 29210-3841 (803) 798-8476 Mayes A. McEntire Palmetto Endodontics 4023 Forest Drive Columbia, SC 29204 (803) 782-7722 www.palmettoendodontics.com Christopher P. McHugh 130 Stonemark Lane Columbia, SC 29210-3841 (803) 798-8476
Following the list, you’ll find our special advertising section, where some of the dentists named to the list have provided more information about themselves and their practices. We hope you’ll find this information helpful when searching for dentists and practices to fill your needs.
general dentistry Christopher L. Andrews 6100 Garners Ferry Road Columbia, SC 29209-1401 (803) 783-4275 Linda C. Basquill 122 North Brickyard Road Columbia, SC 29223-6902 (803) 736-1024 William J. Biggins 1015 Fair Street Camden, SC 29020-4408 (803) 432-3571 www.camdendentist.com
Alec E. Brown 1730 Henderson Street, Suite A Columbia, SC 29201-2648 (803) 252-5068 Kenneth W. Carson 400 Dicey Ford Road Camden, SC 29020-2431 (803) 432-4202 www.drkennethwcarson.com G. Franklin Causey, Jr. 7319 College Street Irmo, SC 29063-2902 (803) 781-1990 www.causeydentist.com Patrick B. Daley 100 Hunter Village Drive, Suite B
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Irmo, SC 29063-7783 (803) 407-9580
West Columbia, SC 29169-5524 (803) 794-5555
Michael B. Davenport Palmetto Dental Associates 216 Palmetto Park Boulevard Lexington, SC 9072-7851 (803) 808-0888
Ned S. Jennings 1415 Blanding Street, Suite 1 Columbia, SC 29201-2922 (803) 254-9045 www.nedsjenningsdmd.com
Russell C. DuPuis, Jr. 142 Leisure Lane Columbia, SC 29210-4125 (803) 731-9556
Harry J. Koutroulakis 1 State Road S-28-884 Lugoff, SC 29078-9384 (803) 438-3540
Thomas R. Edmonds 1109 B Avenue West Columbia, SC 29169-6722 (803) 796-8955
Karen Kramer Magnolia Dental Health Center 6156 Saint Andrews Road, Suite 102 Columbia, SC 29212-3147 (803) 731-5155
Todd B. Elliott Fann Stephens & Elliott 111 Professional Avenue West Columbia, SC 29169-4711 (803) 796-0677 Staci N. Gaffos 9360 Two Notch Road Columbia, SC 29223-6416 (803) 788-0360 Andrew G. Gambrell Farrow Road Dental Group, PA 9020 Farrow Road Columbia, SC 29203-9773 (803) 419-5002 www.farrowroaddental.com L. Malcolm Gordon 2329 Devine Street Columbia, SC 29205-2431 (803) 799-2750 R. Boyd Hendrix 1534 Platt Springs Road
Christopher L. LaTorre Wild Smiles 203 North Lake Drive Lexington, SC 29072 (803) 356-1606 Robert P. McCartha 2039 Medical Park Drive Newberry, SC 29108-2249 (803) 276-3371 www.robertmccartha.com Mark Medlin Charter Oak Cosmetic & Family Dentistry 135 Charter Oak Road Lexington, SC 29072-9246 (803) 785-4040 www.charteroakdentistry.com Gregory A. Millwood Cayce Family Dentisty 1313 State Street Cayce, SC 29033-4344 (803) 796-1734
Brad Pitts 117 Old Chapin Road Lexington, SC 29072-2005 (803) 808-1778 www.bradpitts.com Nicholas J. Pournaras Columbia Smiles 1801 Charleston Highway, Suite A Cayce, SC 29033-2019 (803) 794-5430 www.columbiasmiles.com G. Frank Shull, Jr. Palmetto Dental Associates 216 Palmetto Park Boulevard Lexington, SC 29072-7851 (803) 808-0888 Cleveland T. Smith 1701 Saint Julian Place, Suite 204 Columbia, SC 29204-2418 (803) 771-6393 Keith P. Straka Spring Valley Dental Associates LLC 9165 Two Notch Road Columbia, SC 29223-5832 (803) 788-2560 Ralph E. Taylor, Jr. 1032 Kinley Road, Suite C Irmo, SC 29063-9632 (803) 781-3232 Thomas F. Trinkner 140 Leisure Lane Columbia, SC 29210-4125 (803) 772-9628 www.trinkner.com Walter F. Turbyfill, Jr. Lexington Dental 115 Medical Circle
West Columbia, SC 29169-3655 (803) 794-4472 James R. Williams 2706 Main Street Newberry, SC 29108-4004 (803) 276-2090 Gregory J. Wych The Art of Dentistry 7505 Saint Andrews Road Irmo, SC 29063-2806 (803) 781-1600 www.gregorywych.com
Oral & Maxillofacial surgery Brian R. Cherry Northeast Oral Surgery & Implant Center 9310 Two Notch Road Columbia, SC 29223-6416 (803) 699-5900 www.neoralsurgery.com Isaac E. Davis III 7033 Saint Andrews Road, Suite 102 Columbia, SC 29212 (803) 781-3321 Jeff Dootson Northeast Oral Surgery & Implant Center 9310 Two Notch Road Columbia, SC 29223-6416 (803) 699-5900 www.neoralsurgery.com James Lemon Midlands Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 1755 Saint Julian Place Columbia, SC 29204-2409 (803) 254-2972 www.midlandsoms.com
This list is excerpted from the 2011 topDentists™ list, a database which includes listings for more than 75 dentists and specialists in the Columbia/ Midlands area of South Carolina. The Columbia area list was based on thousands of detailed evaluations of dentists and professionals by their peers. The complete database is available at www.usatopdentists.com. For more information call (706) 364-0853; write PO Box 970, Augusta, GA 30903; email info@usatopdentists.com or visit www.usatopdentists.com. DISCLAIMER topDentists™ has used its best efforts in assembling material for this list but does not warrant that the information contained herein is complete or accurate, and does not assume, and hereby disclaims, any liability to any person for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions herein whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. Copyright 2010-2011 by topDentists, LLC of Augusta, GA. All rights reserved. This list, or parts thereof, must not be reproduced in any form without permission. No commercial use of the information in this list may be made without permission of topDentists™. No fees may be charged, directly or indirectly, for the use of the information in this list without permission.
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James E. Mercer 7033 Saint Andrews Road, Suite 102 Columbia, SC 29212-1180 (803) 781-3321 Joseph W. Park Midlands Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 1755 Saint Julian Place Columbia, SC 29204-2409 (803) 254-2972 www.midlandsoms.com Heath M. Stewart, Jr. Midlands Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 1755 Saint Julian Place Columbia, SC 29204-2409 (803) 254-2972 www.midlandsoms.com David B. Tevepaugh Midlands Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 1755 Saint Julian Place Columbia, SC 29204-2409 (803) 254-2972 www.midlandsoms.com Scott C. Wietecha 110 Medical Lane East, Suite 110 West Columbia, SC 29169-4814 (803) 796-5791
Orthodontics Richard E. Boyd 5 Office Park Court Columbia, SC 29223-5957 (803) 788-7000 www.drrichardboyd.com Thomas S. Davant VI Davant Orthodontics 101 Summit Parkway Columbia, SC 29229-6923 (803) 736-7333 www.davantorthodontics.com Edward Davis Davis Orthodontics 2842 Sunset Boulevard West Columbia, SC 29169-3420 (803) 739-1600 www.dreddavis.com
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W. Nettles Green 3741 Landmark Drive Columbia, SC 29204-4313 (803) 787-1601 www.greenorthodontics.com Philip M. Joseph 116 Atrium Way Columbia, SC 29223-6301 (803) 699-2600 Wendel L. Nixon 143 Medical Circle West Columbia, SC 29169-3655 (803) 791-4877 Brian C. O’Leary O’Leary Orthodontics 1544 Old Tamah Road Irmo, SC 29063-9000 (803) 732-7223 John W. Pitner Pitner Orthodontics 5953 Wescott Road Columbia, SC 29212-2717 (803) 781-5225 www.drpitner.com Leslie L. Pitner Pitner Orthodontics 5953 Wescott Road Columbia, SC 29212-2717 (803) 781-5225 www.drpitner.com R. Sims Tompkins 5250 Clemson Avenue Columbia, SC 29206-3042 (803) 738-9715 www.tompkinsortho.com James D. Whitehead III Whitehead Orthodontics 203 Mallard Lakes Drive Lexington, SC 29072-8150 (803) 996-5100 www.whiteheadortho.com Michael R. Zetz, Jr. Crescent Moon Orthodontics 1600 Lake Murray Boulevard Columbia, SC 29212-8623 (803) 749-4001 www.crescentmoonortho.com
Pediatric Dentistry Robert H. Ellis, Jr. Ellis Green & Jenkins 8905 Two Notch Road Columbia, SC 29223-6367 (803) 788-9593 www.wecaredentalsc.com Carol A. French 1 Thames Alley Irmo, SC 29063-2469 (803) 781-2511 www.drcarolfrench.com Amy E. Green Ellis Green & Jenkins 8905 Two Notch Road Columbia, SC 29223-6367 (803) 788-9593 www.wecaredentalsc.com
Columbia, SC 29210-5649 (803) 798-8675 www.wemakekidssmile.com Robert Nieders Palmetto Smiles 139 Whiteford Way Lexington, SC 29072 (803) 951-9100 www.palmetto-smiles.com James J. Nyland 392 Saint Andrews Road Columbia, SC 29210-4427 (803) 772-7302 Kevin M. Raines Palmetto Smiles 139 Whiteford Way Lexington, SC 29072-7965 (803) 951-9100 www.palmetto-smiles.com
Samuel J. Marsh 2302 Bush River Road
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William C. James, Jr. South Carolina Periodontology 2120 North Beltline Boulevard Columbia, SC 29204-3905 (803) 782-0528 James B. Laney Palmetto Periodontal Associates 1356 North Lake Drive, Suite A Lexington, SC 29072-7653 (803) 951-0323
9600 Two Notch Road, Suite 4 Columbia, SC 29223-1612 (803) 788-9715 www.sandhillsperio.com John M. Stephenson 402 Dicey Ford Road, Suite E Camden, SC 29020-2448 (803) 425-1644
prosthodontics Ralph D. Warnock Lake Murray Pediatric Dental 740 Old Lexington Highway Chapin, SC 29036-7979 (803) 345-2483
periodontics Jerry Lee Ayers, Jr. 2325 Devine Street Columbia, SC 29205-2403 (803) 252-2844
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George K. Bumgardner South Carolina Periodontology 2120 North Beltline Boulevard Columbia, SC 29204-3905 (803) 782-0528 William B. Farrar Columbia Periodontal Associates 3527 Bush River Road Columbia, SC 29210-4805 (803) 798-0894 www.columbiaperiodontal.com
Gregg W. McKenzie 124 Alpine Circle Columbia, SC 29223-6385 (803) 788-0900 Dennis W. Newton, Jr. Sunset Periodontal Associates 159 Medical Circle West Columbia, SC 29169-3655 (803) 794-7520 Sohee K. Park Sandhills Periodontics
Robert D. Holland Carolina Restorative & Implant Dentistry 4019 Forest Drive Columbia, SC 29204-4313 (803) 787-5445 www.cridentistry.com Zebulon V. Morgan, IV 175 Medical Circle West Columbia, SC 29169-3655 (803) 794-3300
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Top Dentists
(L to R) David B. Tevepaugh, DMD, James Lemon, DMD, Joseph W. Park, DMD, Heath M. Stewart, Jr., DMD
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Midlands Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 1755 Saint Julian Place, Middleburg Park Columbia, SC 29204 • (803) 254-2972 www.midlandsoms.com Midlands Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery provides services to treat diseases and injuries of the mouth, jaw and face. The practice is committed to improving the health and well being of patients by providing clinical and aesthetic oral and maxillofacial surgery. The doctors of Midlands Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery have 75 years of combined experience. They are certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and are fellows of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Doctors James Lemon, Joseph W. Park, Heath M. Stewart and David B. Tevepaugh all attended the College of Dental Medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina. Oral and maxillofacial surgery is a specialty of dentistry that treats diseases and injuries of both hard and soft tissue in the mouth, jaw and face. Conditions and treatments include cosmetic and health related surgeries, dentoalveolar and oral surgery, facial trauma, cleft palate and
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craniofacial anomalies, dental implants, bone grafting, preprosthetic surgery, temporomandibular joint treatment, orthognathic surgery, reconstructive surgery and adjunctive cosmetic surgery. In addition to cosmetic procedures and surgeries, the physicians at Midlands Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery remove wisdom teeth and perform biopsies. The appearance of third molars, or wisdom teeth, is one of the foremost reasons for visits to the practice. Biopsies are also performed, as well as screenings to check for cancer of the mouth and jaw. Midlands Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery has practices in Middleburg Park, Irmo, Northeast Columbia and Newberry, making oral and maxillofacial surgery easily available to residents of the Midlands. Call or email them at infotomoms@midlandsoms.com during office hours for answers to questions and concerns. After-hours emergencies can be addressed through an answering service. New patients can download the necessary forms from www.midlandsoms.com. Midlands Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery combines personal care, technology and experience to provide the best experience possible.
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Top Dentists
Periodontics
Sunset Periodontal Associates 159 Medical Circle West Columbia, SC 29169 (803) 794-7520 D.W. “Rusty� Newton, Jr., D.D.S. has practiced the dental specialty of Periodontics in the Greater Columbia area for 35 years. He attended Clemson University for his undergraduate education and then Emory University in Atlanta for his dental degree. After a two year tour in the United States Navy, he attended the graduate Periodontics program at the University of Alabama Birmingham School of Dentistry. The practice of Periodontics includes the treatment of periodontal diseases, soft tissue reconstructive surgery and implant dentistry. Periodontal diseases include gingivitis, chronic adult periodontitis, early onset periodontitis and other acute conditions. Left untreated these conditions may cause loss of significant portions of the upper and lower jaw. There is also growing evidence that oral infections may have an interaction with other systemic illnesses such as diabetes, heart attack, stroke, upper respiratory infections, a specific type of kidney disease and, in women of child bearing age, the possibility of early termination of pregnancy. Soft tissue treatment includes repair of gingival recession, removal of excess gingival tissue (gummy smile) and cosmetic procedures to even out the smile line. Dr. Newton has practiced implant dentistry since 1985. Implants are placed in the upper or lower jaw to act as a root for replacement of a single tooth or multiple teeth. Once a tooth is lost the bone that held the tooth in place begins to deteriorate. When an implant is placed in that area the bone loss is halted. It is also possible to regenerate lost bone when necessary. Surgical procedures are usually completed with intravenous conscious sedation and local anesthesia. This technique is used to relax the patient as well as dry the mouth and administer steroids to cut down on postoperative swelling. Dr. Newton is a member of numerous professional organizations. He is a Board Certified Periodontist and a Fellow of the American and International College of Dentists. He has served on the South Carolina Board of Dentistry, serving as President in 2004. He is married to Susan Frazier Newton. They have three children and two handsome grandsons. His hobbies include water sports, fishing and enjoying the grands.
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D. W. Newton, Jr., DDS
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Top Dentists Orthodontics
Pitner Orthodontics 5953 Wescott Road • Columbia, SC 29212 814 Old Bush River Road • Chapin, SC 29036 (803) 781-5225 • www.drpitner.com Pitner Orthodontics is thrilled to have two of the top orthodontists in Columbia. Dr. John Pitner began practicing in Columbia in 1973. His daughter, Dr. Leslie Pitner, grew up in Columbia, attended Chapin High School, and joined her father’s practice in 2005 after training at UNC-Chapel Hill. Now “Dr. Leslie” (a nickname created by her staff to distinguish between father and daughter) is proud to continue her father’s legacy of building caring relationships with patients on the way to beautiful smiles. “Wearing braces is often a two-year commitment,” Dr. Leslie notes. “We want our patients to look forward to visiting our office and, in the end, finish treatment as our new friends.” “Your smile changes how others see you and how you see yourself, and a beautiful smile with a comfortable bite is for everyone,” she says. “Many of our patients are children and teenagers, but it’s never too late to have a smile you enjoy sharing with others, one that gives you confidence.” To that end, Pitner Orthodontics offers several options for adults as well as children, including Incognito, the most advanced and completely invisible braces available. Incognito is a custom bracket that is attached to the back of the your teeth. Because it is custom made for your teeth, it is very small and comfortable. And best of all, no one will know you are wearing braces, and there are no limits to what can be corrected. As part of its commitment to making braces as efficient and enjoyable as possible, Pitner Orthodontics also offers the most current technology available, including low-radiation digital X-ray machines, fully digitized patient records and a commitment to recycling and reducing waste. “We want to be state-of-the-art,” Dr. Leslie says, “not to be trendy or cool, but to provide the best, safest care possible.” Dr. Leslie would love to meet you or your child and help you to Smile Big and Smile Often.
Leslie Pitner, DDS, MS
Endodontics
Dr. Trent Gillespie 618 Ott Road Columbia, SC 29205 (803) 256-1156 Dr. Trent Gillespie is an endodontist, a dentist who specializes in root canal therapy. He received his undergraduate degree from Clemson University and has a Masters degree in Public Health Administration from the University of South Carolina. He received his dental degree from the Medical University of South
Carolina and completed a graduate practice residency at Palmetto Health Richland in Columbia. He received his endodontic training and degree from the Medical College of Georgia. Dr. Gillespie has been in private practice in Columbia for five years. His unique practice is dedicated to providing the best endodontic care in a warm and caring atmosphere. Along with his staff, his goal is to make his patients as comfortable as possible. Dr. Gillespie was raised in Columbia. He and his wife have two children.
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Top Dentists General Dentistry
The Art of Dentistry 7505 Saint Andrews Road • Irmo, SC 29063 (803) 781-1600 • www.gregorywych.com
Gregory J. Wych, DDS
Gregory J Wych, DDS, is originally from Cleveland, Ohio. He graduated from Case Western Reserve University School of Dentistry in 1984, then served in the US Navy and the Fleet Marines from 1984 to 1987, principally at Parris Island, S.C. He has practiced in Irmo since 1988, first as an associate and beginning in 1990 as owner of his solo dental practice. Dr. Wych has graduated from numerous advanced dental education institutes, including The Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies, The Dawson Center, The Seattle Institute for Advanced Studies, The Scottsdale Center for Dental Studies and the Piper Institute. He has advanced training in cosmetic, comprehensive and sedation dentistry, and he averages 100 to 200 hours of continuing education each year. He has a special interest in restoring smiles. Dr. Wych was the first dentist in the Midlands to use the Cerec technology, allowing same day permanent restorations. He is a leader in sedation dentistry and is the only dentist in Columbia with the advanced Waterlase MD dental laser technology. He was asked to become a member of the Visiting Faculty of the Scottsdale Center, where he teaches advanced cosmetic dentistry. The Art of Dentistry in Irmo focuses on giving the dental patient the most exceptional experience in dentistry. With the extraordinary training and skills of the doctor and his staff, as well as the high tech facility with all of the comforts anyone could expect, Dr. Wych has choreographed a Ritz-Carlton type experience for all of his patients. Dr. Wych is a member of the American Dental Association, the South Carolina Dental Association, The Greater Columbia Dental Association, The Doctors of Conscious Sedation, The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) and the American Academy of Computerized Dentistry. He was asked to become a member of the Visiting Faculty of the Scottsdale Center, which teaches advanced techniques in dentistry.
Pediatric Dentistry
Lake Murray Pediatric Dentistry 740 Old Lexington Highway • Chapin, SC 29036 (803) 345-2483 • www.lakemurraysmiles.com Dr. Ralph Warnock has been treating the dental needs of children from all across the greater Columbia area as a pediatric dentist in his own private practice since 2003. Dr. Warnock and the staff at Lake Murray Pediatric Dentistry are proud to provide the quality care that your child deserves, promising to treat each child like their own. The office is designed to provide the most modern dental technology in a fun caring atmosphere with a Lake Murray theme that appeals to children and parents alike. You may not catch any fish in their office, but Dr. Warnock and his staff hope to get your children “Hooked w w w. c o l u m b i a m e t ro . c o m
on Smiles” for life. Dr. Warnock received undergraduate degrees from Emory University and a Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the University of Alabama School of Dentistry. He completed his formal training in pediatric dentistry at the Medical College of Georgia in 2003, where he also completed a General Practice Residency. He provides consultations, emergency care, oral sedation, preventive care, restorative care, routine dental care, special needs care and general anesthesia/hospital dentistry for infants, children and adolescents. SPE C IAL A D V ER T ISIN G SE C T ION
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Top Dentists Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Northeast Oral Surgery & Implant Center 9310 Two Notch Road • Columbia, SC 29223 (803) 699-5900 • www.neoralsurgery.com Oral and maxillofacial surgeons Jeffery Dootson, Brian Cherry and James Strider, Jr., treat a variety of problems relating to the mouth, teeth and facial regions. All three are board certified by the American Board of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. In addition to serving patients at three offices in Columbia and Orangeburg, they maintain hospital privileges at both Palmetto Health Baptist and Palmetto Health Richland hospitals. They practice a full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery with expertise ranging from dental implant surgery and wisdom tooth removal to corrective jaw surgery and repair of traumatic facial injuries. As founders and directors of the S.C. Academy of Advanced Implant Studies, the surgeons work to elevate the practice of implant dentistry by providing quality continuing education and advanced training to select restorative dentists in the greater Columbia, Camden and Orangeburg areas. Northeast Oral Surgery and Implant Center is committed to providing the highest quality care utilizing state of the art techniques. The doctors in the practice are highly trained in the placement of dental implants as well as auxiliary bone grafting procedures, and an in-office Cone Beam CT Scanner allows surgeons to stay at the forefront of cutting edge technology in evaluating dental implant placement. Northeast Oral Surgery and Implant Center looks forward to discussing your unique dental needs and developing a treatment plan specifically for you. Visit their website (www.neoralsurgery.com) for more information about their doctors, offices and the services they provide.
(L to R) Brian Cherry, DMD, Jeffery Dootson, DMD, James Strider, Jr., DMD
Periodontics
Dr. Gregg McKenzie 124 Alpine Circle • Columbia, SC 29223 • (803) 788-0900 Dr. Gregg McKenzie is a board certified periodontist in northeast Columbia limiting his practice to periodontics and implant dentistry. He received his dental degree from Louisiana State University School of Dentistry in New Orleans, and he completed his residency in periodontics at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta. He has enjoyed
practicing in Columbia for 31 years. Dr. McKenzie utilizes evolving state-of-the-art technology in patient care, including laserassisted periodontal therapy and 3D radiography for implant planning and placement. He and his staff are committed to affording excellence in diagnosis and treatment with a goal of exceeding patient expectations.
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Top Dentists Periodontics
Sandhills Periodontics 9600 Two Notch Road, Suite 4 Columbia, SC 29223 (803) 788-9715 www.sandhillsperio.com
Sohee K. Park, DMD, MHS
Dr. Sohee Park is a board certified Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. She specializes in periodontics, dental implants and laser periodontal therapy. A native of Columbia, she graduated from Spring Valley High School before attending Duke University, where she received her B.S. degree in Biology. After earning her D.M.D. degree from MUSC, she finished a one-year residency in an Advanced Education in General Dentistry at the State University of New York. She completed her academic career with a three-year residency at MUSC, where she earned both her postgraduate degree in Periodontics along with her Masters degree. Dr. Park has extensive experience in the cosmetic and conservative treatment of gum disease. This encompasses a broad range of services, such as scaling and root planing, esthetic crown lengthening surgery, gingival grafting and the latest revolutionary advancements with laser periodontal therapy. A large scope of her progressive practice also incorporates dental implants to aesthetically enhance a patient’s smile by replacing missing teeth. Dr. Park’s comprehensive approach to periodontal disease places a strong emphasis on its prevention, diagnosis and treatment, as she expertly guides you through the necessary steps to achieve oral health. Dr. Park and her team of dedicated professionals strongly believe that in a healthy smile, you’ll find a more confident and beautiful you.
Orthodontics
Davis Orthodontics 143 Medical Circle • West Columbia, SC 29169 (803) 739-1600 • www.dredavis.com Dr. Edward Davis has been enhancing smiles around the Midlands for more than 10 years. He is a board-certified orthodontist who treats both children and adults using all of the latest techniques with offices in both West Columbia and Orangeburg. Dr. Davis was raised in West Columbia and received his undergraduate degree from the University of South Carolina and his dental degree from the Medical University of
South Carolina. His orthodontic training was completed at Saint Louis University where he received a Masters degree in Biology. Dr. Davis is a member of numerous dental and orthodontic organizations. In addition, he has taught orthodontic assisting at Midlands Technical College, and he is part of the Craniofacial Rehabilitation team of the Midlands. He and his wife have four children.
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Top Dentists Pediatric Dentistry
Dr. Carol French 1 Thames Alley • Irmo, SC 29063 (803) 781-2511 • www.drcarolfrench.com Everyone smiles in the same language, and with proper dental care your child’s smile can look great. Dr. Carol A. French, a board certified pediatric dentist, offers comprehensive dental care for infants, children and teens. Dr. French believes a dental home is a warm, engaging place where children feel comfortable and where parents know they can have their children’s dental care delivered, their questions answered and emergency care if needed. Realizing that parents are key to raising cavity-free children, Dr. French and her staff encourage parents to accompany their children throughout their appointments. The presence of a parent also usually reduces any anxiety a child may feel. Dr. French proudly receives referrals from around the state for her office’s particular conscious sedation techniques. When in-office pharmacologic services are not the answer, the practice is affiliated with both Lexington Medical Center and Palmetto Health Richland Hospital. “Preventive dentistry is the key to our comprehensive care approach,” Dr. French says. “It is important for children to begin their dental visits between 6 to 12 months of age. Our services in children’s dentistry include conscious sedation, hospital dentistry, monitoring growth and development, preventive techniques, interceptive orthodontics and behavioral management. We treat healthy children, as well as children and adults with special needs.” After graduating from Winthrop College, Dr. French taught elementary school in Charleston for several years prior to entering dental school. She graduated from the Medical University of South Carolina in 1982 then did a residency program in Pediatric Dentistry at Children’s Medical Center in Dayton, Ohio. The hospital residency was in conjunction with Indiana University, one of the top five programs for Pediatric Dentistry in the country. “Most importantly, we love children, and we believe every child does something right during a dental visit and it is our responsibility to point that out to them,” she says. “To learn more about our approach to your child’s dental health visit us at www.drcarolfrench.com.”
Carol French, DMD
Orthodontics
O’Leary Orthodontics 1544 Old Tamah Road • Irmo, SC 29063 • (803) 732-7223 508A Old Lexington Highway • Chapin, SC 29036 • (803) 345-3936
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Dr. Brian O’Leary and his friendly, professional staff enjoy creating beautiful smiles every day. At two state of the art facilities in Dutch Fork and Chapin, Dr. O’Leary and his staff enjoy interacting with both children and adults. As a husband and father of three, Dr. O’Leary strives to create an environment that is family friendly and fun for all ages. Each patient is treated with individual care and consideration for an optimal outcome and a comfortable experience. Dr. O’Leary truly believes SPE C IAL A D V ER T ISIN G SE C T ION
that orthodontics can be both fun and professional at the same time. Dr. O’Leary is a graduate of Irmo High School, Virginia Tech, Medical University of South Carolina and West Virginia University. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics and is currently serving on the Board of the SC Association of Orthodontists. He frequently attends professional meetings and scientific seminars in order to provide the most current techniques and optimal care for his patients. j u n e 2011
Top Dentists General Dentistry
Dr. G. Franklin Causey, Jr. 7319 College Street • Irmo, SC 29063 (803) 781-1990 www.causeydentist.com
G. Franklin Causey, Jr., DMD
Dr. Frank Causey is grateful to have served in the Midlands for the past 18 years as a family dentist. “Not only is Columbia a great place to raise a family,” Dr. Causey says, “but there’s a real sense of community within the local dental community – relationships my wife Dana and I cherish.” Dr. Causey’s approach is based on years of training and experience, as well as his own personal faith, which is rooted in kindness, compassion and fairness. “When I’m advising and treating my patients, I really do think of what is best … whether I’m filling a cavity, performing a smile makeover or sending appointment reminders. It’s always what’s best for the patient.” Dr. Causey received his Doctor of Dental Medicine from MUSC and completed a General Practice Residency at Richland Memorial Hospital, but he is always learning more about the latest advances in his field. He frequently travels to respected institutes all over the country to study, continuing his education to better serve his patients. “I’m a fairly conservative guy at heart,” he says. “I don’t chase after every new trend or fad in dentistry. That said, I am fascinated by any new technique that can make my patients healthier and happier. I love to learn. And I love to make my patients smile.” All patients, old or new, young or old, feel like family when they visit Dr. Causey’s office. Most agree that, despite the anxiety they feel visiting the dentist, Dr. Causey puts them at ease. Chris White, a longtime patient, puts it this way: “I always hated going to the dentist, but not anymore. Dr. Causey makes me feel like family.”
Endodontics
Palmetto Endodontics 4023 Forest Drive • Columbia, SC 29204 • (803) 782-7722 140 Summit Centre Drive • Columbia, SC 29229 • (803) 217-0066 www.palmettoendodontics.com Dr. Todd Barrett and Dr. Mayes McEntire are dental specialists trained in surgical and non-surgical endodontic therapy. Dr. Barrett has been practicing in Columbia at Palmetto Endodontics for 10 years and Dr. McEntire joined the practice approximately two years ago. They have completed thousands of procedures to save teeth that would have otherwise required extraction. Dr. Barrett and Dr. McEntire use the
most advanced technology to provide painless dentistry to their patients such as microscopes, digital radiography and ultrasonic instruments. They work closely with general dentists and other specialists in the area to provide a team approach and offer the best options for saving natural teeth. Palmetto Endodontics is located on Forest Drive in Forest Acres and also has a location in the Summit in Northeast Columbia.
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Top Dentists Orthodontics
W. Nettles Green, DMD, MS 3741 Landmark Drive Columbia, SC 29204 (803) 787-1601 www.greenorthodontics.com Dr. W. Nettles Green is a board certified orthodontist who has been in practice for over 15 years. He graduated from Wofford College and MUSC Dental School and obtained his Masters in Orthodontics from Northwestern University in Chicago. Dr. Green provides innovative orthodontic solutions to suit your lifestyle and personal preferences. He uses the most technologically advanced braces that allow him to treat patients in less time with fewer office visits, and the braces are more comfortable and virtually invisible. In addition to traditional braces, Dr. Green uses Damon braces and Invisalign, allowing him to create truly spectacular smiles and facial results. Orthodontic treatment is not just for kids anymore; over 25 percent of Dr. Green’s practice is comprised of adults. With Dr. Green’s combination of technology and a unique treatment philosophy, patients will notice not only a positive change in their smile but also in their face and profile. Dr. Green has a skilled administrative staff to assist in providing affordable high quality treatment that fits any budget. The experienced and highly trained clinical staff assists him in providing superior orthodontic treatment in a friendly and comfortable atmosphere. Dr. Green recently constructed a state of the art facility that was designed to provide you with a tremendous orthodontic experience. The practice prides itself on providing excellent patient care, and your satisfaction is their primary objective. Their treatment results show in beautiful smiles that last a lifetime. W. Nettles Green, DMD, MS
General Dentistry
Dr. Eddie Taylor, Jr. 1032-C Kinley Road Irmo, SC 29063 (803) 781-3232 Dr. Eddie Taylor received his undergraduate degree from The Citadel in 1990. He received his doctor of dental medicine degree from the Medical University of South Carolina College of Dental Medicine in 1995. He then
completed a General Practice Residency at MUSC hospital. Dr. Taylor has been in private practice in Irmo since 1999. He and his wife Avril have four children. Dr. Taylor’s mission is to listen, serve and make a difference.
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Top Dentists General Dentistry
Ned S. Jennings, DMD 1415 Blanding Street, Suite 1 Columbia, SC 29201 • (803) 254-9045 www.nedsjenningsdmd.com
Ned S. Jennings, DMD
Dr. Ned Jennings is a leader in prevention, diagnosis, treatment and interventional care for diseases of the oral cavity and associated structures. He is dedicated to providing the highest quality care in a comfortable and caring environment. His comprehensive approach to patient care takes into consideration each individual’s lifestyle, risk factors and desired results when formulating a personalized treatment plan. Dr. Jennings’s staff members are experienced and caring individuals whose goal is to communicate, nurture and provide the best
care possible. Emphasis is on prevention and helping patients achieve their goals. He and his staff are dedicated to providing patients with a full range of dental and cosmetic services. Dr. Jennings is a member of the American Dental Association and South Carolina Dental Association. He is past president of the Greater Columbia Dental Association and MidCarolina Study Academy. He was recently recognized with fellowship status in the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. Visit www.nedsjenningsdmd.com and follow the practice on Facebook to learn more about Dr. Jennings, his practice and his staff.
Endodontics
Midlands Endodontics 108 Palmetto Park Boulevard, Suite F Lexington, SC 29072 • (803) 808-1110 Midlands Endodontics, the office of Dr. Matthew Evans and Dr. Tommy Thompson, has been helping Lexington and the greater Columbia area smile for 10 years. Dr. Evans is a graduate of MUSC and completed his endodontic training at Oregon Health and Sciences University. Dr. Thompson is a graduate of the University of Louisville and completed his endodontic
training at Long Beach, Calif. As endodontists, the doctors take great care of their patients in a peaceful, calm environment. They use the latest technology, including digital radiography and Cone Beam CT, to ensure the best outcome for all of their patients. New patients are welcomed on a referral basis, so please ask your general dentist about the practice.
(L to R) Tommy D. Thompson, DMD, Matthew D. Evans, DMD
General & Cosmetic Dentistry
Farrow Road Dental Group 9020 Farrow Road • Columbia, SC 29203 (803) 419-5002 • www.farrowroaddental.com Dr. Andrew G. Gambrell, DMD, is the owner of Farrow Road Dental Group, PA, located in Northeast Columbia. Dr. Gambrell received his undergraduate degree in biology from the University of South Carolina. He received his dental degree from the Medical University of South Carolina and completed a residency in Advanced Education in General Dentistry at MUSC. Dr. Gambrell has been providing dental care in
Columbia since 2002 and has been a certified Invisalign provider since 2003. Dr. Gambrell and his associates have a strong background in cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry and all aspects of general dentistry. The practice provides care for adults and children of all ages. The dedicated and professional staff is available to answer all of your questions. Visit their website to learn more.
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Top Dentists Orthodontics
Davant Orthodontics 101 Summit Parkway • Columbia, SC 29229 (803) 736-7333 • www.davantorthodontics.com
Dr. Thomas Davant has seen many changes in the 21 years he has been practicing orthodontics. Adult treatment has increased to account for 35 percent of his practice. Invisalign and clear brackets offer adults and teenagers the opportunity to undergo orthodontic correction without the traditional metal braces. Dr. Davant’s orthodontic philosophy is that a few things need to be ready before starting most orthodontic cases. First, the mouth has to be ready, meaning the baby teeth should be gone, unless there is a skeletal or peer problem. Second, the individual needs to be mature enough to accept treatment. “I tell parents often that orthodontic
treatment can be started too early, but never too late,” he says. “Just because an individual is in my chair, does not mean that they need to leave with braces on.” Services provided include fixed appliances for children and adults, early interceptive/preventative treatment, habit appliance therapy (thumb, tongue), Invisalign for teens and adults, sleep apnea/snore appliances and TMJ treatment. Dr. Davant grew up in Northeast Columbia, attended Richland NE schools and graduated from Spring Valley. He attended USC, received his DMD degree from MUSC and his MS degree from Northwestern University. His interests include hunting, fishing, golf, running and travel. He and his wife KimAnne have a son, Thomas VII, 17, and a daughter, Taylor, 15.
Thomas S. Davant, VI, DMD, MS
Periodontics
Columbia Periodontal Associates, LLC 3527 Bush River Road • Columbia, SC 29210 • (803) 798-0894 2325 Devine Street • Columbia, SC 29205 • (803) 252-2844 www.columbiaperiodontal.com
(L to R) William B. Farrar, DDS, J. Lee Ayers, Jr., DMD, MHS
Dr. William Farrar and Dr. J. Lee Ayers, Jr., would like to thank all of the referring dentists who voted to include them on the prestigious topDentists™ list. Dr. Farrar and Dr. Ayers are board certified periodontists with Columbia Periodontal Associates, one of the larger periodontal practices in the Midlands with an established tradition of excellence for more than 20 years. The doctors provide diagnostic and surgical care with an emphasis on treating gum disease using
laser procedures, as well as placing dental implants, to improve the overall health and well being of their patients. Their goal is to provide optimal care to all of their patients in the most caring and efficient manner. Dr. Farrar, a graduate of University of Virginia, earned Dental and Periodontal degrees from the Medical College of Virginia and Medical College of Georgia. Dr. Ayers, a graduate of Presbyterian College, earned his Dental and Periodontal degrees from MUSC.
Be sure to visit our website at www.columbiametro.com to see the dentists’ online profiles, as well as maps to their office locations. Also on our website, you’ll find online profiles of the Midlands Best Doctors. Our September magazine and website will feature profiles on companies that can help you plan your financial future.
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picture this
NAI Avant’s 45th Anniversary Party at Columbia Museum of Art
Joe Berry, Mike Brenan
Harry Mashburn, Jimmy Derrick
Jim Cantey, Lloyd Kapp
Steve Koewler, Dan Avant
Jim Gambrell, Lee Bussell
Lyle Darnall, Dan Avant,, Jack Goette
Bill Harper, Bonnie Harper
Larry Collins, Ruth Anne Collins
Natalie Killman, Kristen Berg, Nicole Stanley
Trey Price, Alec Chaplin, Jessica Murphy
Boyd Jones, Bill Theus
Glenforest School Fundraiser and Gala
Guy Lipscomb, Glenforest mascot, John Kitchings
Tim Miller, Mick Zais, Mike Davis, Elizabeth Trenbeath, Krystin Krist, Gwynis Krist, Paul McClanahan, Beverly McClanahan
Louise Rogers Slater
Chris Winkler, Krystin Krist, Mike Davis
Dazmin Seawright, William Knopf
Stan McGuffin, Glenforest mascot
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just
married
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Cielle Thibodeaux and Griffin Fulmer
Jerome Bennett and Megan Senn
Lindsey Dupree and Shayne Hilton
liz roberts photography
Lindsey Spires and Charles Griffin
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larry james photography
Send an email to robyn@columbiametro.com for details.
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Submit your wedding photos for inclusion in Just Married!
Ashley Reed and Brian Hess
j u n e 2011
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90 C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n
j u n e 2011