Columbia Living Nov-Dec 2011

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November/ December 2011

Deck The Halls 5 Design Experts Share Their Insider Tips

»

Celebrate!

Holiday Ideas:

Gift Guide Chef ’s Recipes Healthy Kid Snacks & More!

Plus:

Holiday Quail Hunt & Classic Home Remodel

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November/ December 2011 | 3

our Contents » F E A T U R E S November | December 2011

40 »

Holiday Décor

40 Steven Ford Interiors 42 Brandon Davidson Interiors 42 M Gallery Interiors 43 Mack Home 43 LGB Interiors

» 44 Home Economics PHOTOGRAPH BY JAY BROWNE

Executive chef Paul Cernansky invites us into his home for a holiday celebration filled with delectable family fare.

» 49 Lure Of The Wild

The thrill of the hunt during the holidays has been a Midlands tradition for generations.

On The Cover » Holiday decorations galore, shot on location inside the home of Linda Burnside with LGB Interiors. Photograph by Jay Browne.

4 | ColumbiaLivingMag.com

www.columbialivingmag.com

November/ December 2011

Deck The Halls 5 Design Experts Share Their Insider Tips

»

Celebrate!

Holiday Ideas:

Gift Guide Chef ’s Recipes Healthy Kid Snacks & More!

Plus:

Holiday Quail Hunt & Classic Home Remodel

PHOTOGRAPH BY JAY BROWNE

Five local design experts share their visions of Columbia’s season of celebration, and offer up some insider tips to help you deck the halls this season.

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our Contents » D E P A R T M E N T S 37

Buzz 14 16 13

Art Seen With the skills of a honed metal worker, Ellen Yaghjian’s crafted art is music to your ears Staff Picks New book titles for some good reading Events Local fundraisers, cultural events, family outings, and more

Well Styled 17 18

Beauty Simple steps to create this season’s hottest looks with nude lipstick Fashion Fast and festive hairstyles that will compliment your wardrobe

Southern Drawl 22

A native resident of Columbia demonstrates through hard work that dreams can be achieved

Home & Garden 26

The Chastains opt for a major home remodel with new designs to suit the whole family

53

Health 31

26

34

Wellness Stress management strategies and tips to help bring you happier holidays Diet Tips and easy recipes for healthy snacks your kids will love this season

Special Section

60

PHOTOGRAPH BY JAY BROWNE

PHOTOGRAPH BY JAY BROWNE

37

22

Holiday Gift Guide Tis better to give and receive this holiday season with our list of gift ideas for all ages

Food & Wine 53 55

Dining Out Ristorante Divino Restaurant Guide The best spots for eating and drinking in Columbia

Travel 60

Bermuda is the perfect hot spot for those dreaming of a sandy beach for the holidays

Social Scene

6 | ColumbiaLivingMag.com

PHOTOGRAPH BY JAY BROWNE

PHOTOGRAPH BY KATIE MCELVEEN

63

Were You Seen? Check out our latest party pics to find out

Fundamentals 10 12 63 64

Reader Services Publisher’s Letter Advertisers Index

The Last Reflection

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November/ December 2011 | 7

Publisher Robert Sweeney Ŷ Ŷ Ŷ

Associate Editors Julie Yow Susan O’Keefe Ŷ Ŷ Ŷ

Senior Account Executive Annie Fowler

Art Director Sara Knutson

Graphic Designers Samantha Burt Erin Harbison

Contributing Writers Cecile Holmes, Courtney Webb, Dia Andrews, Edna Cox, Jackie Perrone, James McAllister, Karen Petit, Katherine Pettit, Katie McElveen, Linda Lamb, Mackenzie Taylor, Melissa Sprouse-­ Browne, Rachel Haynie

Photographers Elaine Floyd, Jay Browne, Sally Taylor Ŷ Ŷ Ŷ

Production Coordinator Dana Maskin

Distribution Coordinator Les Gibbons

Web Developer Nikki Muhammad Ŷ Ŷ Ŷ Customer Service (843) 856-­2532

CLASSIC WOMEN’S APPAREL Joseph Ribkoff Frank Lyman Painted Pony Elliot Lauren Spanner 121 East Main St Lexington 803.359.4545 www.MaesofLexington.com

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Columbia LIVING (Vol. 2, No. 1) ISSN 21579342, is published 6 times per year by Global Media Group, LLC, 3853 Colonel Vanderhorst Circle, Mount Pleasant, SC 29466. The entire contents of this publication are fully protected and may not be reproduced, in whole or part, without written permission. We are not responsible for loss of unsolicited materials. Copyright © 2011.

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November/ December 2011 | 9

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Join us for March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction!

;QOVI\]ZM +PMN[ )]K\QWV November 6, 2011

6 pm Embassy Suites Columbia, South Carolina Enjoy delectable samplings and the opportunity to bid on one-of-a-kind silent and live auction packages!

Call (803) 252-5200 or visit marchofdimes.com/southcarolina for more information!

All proceeds benefit the March of Dimes mission of improving the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality.

South Carolina BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association

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From the Publisher

n o i t a r i p s n I y Holida I

was speaking with an interior designer friend the other day, and she mentioned that she felt like her work did not have enough purpose, that it did not contribute true value to the public – “all fluff, no glory,â€? was how she put it. “It’s not like I’m a doctor saving lives,â€? she said. “I choose interior colors and pick out pillows. Granted, I pick out the best pillows, but still‌â€?

I told her she was selling herself way too short. “Let me finish she said.� I kept quiet and she continued. “But then I realized that what I do is give people the home they want, which makes them feel peaceful and secure. They come home and they’re happy and relaxed. And what’s more meaningful than that?�

I think about this conversation from time to time – mostly when I’m perusing through photos to feature in this magazine, or meeting new people to review their stylish ideas.

What designers do is important because the art of design is just that – an art. It’s difficult, and it takes discipline and training. And it does make a significant contribution to people’s lives.

Pillows. Paint colors. Curtains. This stuff matters, not just because it brightens up a bare room but because it’s what we use to make ourselves feel at ease, comfortable at home. If that’s not enough of a reason to jump-start a shopping spree, then I’m excited to bring you several pages of decorating ideas. Do you need more space or just want to transform an old house into a new home? (see Classic Comeback, page 26). Need help decorating for the holidays? (see Holiday DÊcor, page 40).

The holiday season is upon us, and our homes will soon be filled with laughter and cheer from friends and family. We all have our holiday family traditions, which typically centers around the dinner table. We were invited inside the home of Paul Cernansky, executive chef at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, for a sit-down meal with his friends to experience how they celebrate the holidays (see Home Economics, page 44).

There are many more great stories throughout the pages of this issue, including some great gift ideas (see Holiday Gift Guide, page 37), and the long tradition of quail hunting during the holidays (see The Lure of the Wild, page 49).

We hope you enjoy this issue of Columbia Living and find its pages to be full of ideas and inspiration. Come inside where it’s warm, break out the holiday decorations and the hot cocoa, and bring on the cheer and true spirit of the season.

robert@columbialivingmag.com 12 Â Â Â | Â Â Â ColumbiaLivingMag.com

www.columbialivingmag.com

November/ December 2011

Deck The Halls 5 Design Experts Share Their Insider Tips

Âť

Celebrate!

Holiday Ideas:

Gift Guide Chef ’s Recipes Healthy Kid Snacks & More!

Plus:

Holiday Quail Hunt & Classic Home Remodel

Give the gift that lasts all year long... a subscription to magazine!

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Buzz » Events

Local fundraisers, cultural events, family outings and more…

November 1-20 Clinton Sease Corn Maze Navigate your way out of this multi-acre puzzle. Great fun for the entire family. Hours vary.

404 Olde Farm Rd., Lexington.

730-2863.

November 4-6 36th Annual Craftsmen’s Christmas Classic Arts & Crafts Festival Features original crafts and one-of-a kind gifts from hundreds of artists from across the nation. Hours vary. Cantey Building, State Fair Grounds. 336-282-5550.

November 5 39th Annual Governor’s Cup Road Race One of SC’s marquee running events featuring a half marathon, an 8k run, 4-mile walk, and Kid’s Cup run. Scenic course begins in downtown Columbia and ends at the USC Horseshoe. 7:30am. 731-2100.

November 6 March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction Black-tie event pays tribute to the culinary excellence of leading local chefs and silent and live auctions. Proceeds help prevent birth defects and premature births. 6pm. Embassy Suites, 252-5200. www.marchofdimes.com/southcarolina November 17 16th Annual Chuck Larsen Live & Silent Auction One of the largest fundraiser events for the Irmo Chamber. 5:30pm. Double Tree Hotel.

749-9355. www.greaterirmochamber.com November 18 Gingerbread Cocktail Reception and Live Auction Week long festivities culminate on Friday the 18th with the live auction of the AIA gingerbread houses. Proceeds benefit Children’s Trust of SC and EdVenture Children’s Museum. 7-10pm. 576-5358. www.aiacolumbia.org November 18 Taylor Swift Speak Now World Tour Entertainer of the Year will be playing on two different stages with acoustic and electric guitars. Opening act is Adam Brand. Prices vary. 7pm.

Colonial Life Arena. www.coloniallifearena.com

November 19-January 2 Lights Before Christmas Columbia’s longest running holiday tradition, the Riverbanks Zoo is illuminated with over one million twinkling lights and over 350 handcrafted images. Santa and snow nightly. 6-9pm.

779-8717. www.riverbanks.org

Building, State Fair Grounds. 252-4552. www.jlcolumbia.org

November 19 Artisans Fair & Sale Kicking off the holiday shopping season, the annual Artisans’ Fair boasts an array of handmade jewelry, ceramics, textiles, pine needle baskets, scarves, gourd birdhouses, ornaments and more. 10am-5pm. Columbia Museum of Art. 343-2159. www.columbiamuseum.org

December 2 Five Points Festivus 4th annual Festivus parade, live entertainment, tree lighting, and special merchant sales.

748-7373. www.fivepointscolumbia.com

November 19 An Evening With Joe Bonamassa Enjoy a night of great blues with Joe and his band. 8pm. Township Auditorium. 576-2350.

November 19-20 22nd Festival of Trees Features decorated trees, wreaths and other holiday items that are up for bid, with proceeds benefiting Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital.

Village at Sandhill. 434-7275. www.palmettohealthfoundation.org November 23-December 31 Holiday Lights on the River Saluda Shoals Park comes alive in a blaze of more than a million sparkling lights. Over 300 themed, animated light displays around the park. 6-10pm. 772-1228.

November 24-December 4 Junie B. Jones in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells A fun holiday spectacular for the entire family.

Hours vary. Columbia Children’s Theatre.

691-4548.

November 30-December 4 26th Annual Holiday Market Celebrate with The Junior League of Columbia and over90 merchants offering the perfect gifts for friends and family this holiday season. Special events include Ladies Night Out and PJs with Santa. Hours vary. Cantey

November 25-December 10 Winter Wonder Ride Zip through a series of lighted arches and experience tube riding without the snow.

Suitable for the entire family. 6-10pm. Saluda Shoals Park, 772-1228. www.icrc.net

December 3 58th Annual Carolina Carillon Holiday Parade Enjoy dozens of floats, marching bands, and live entertainment as they present the “12 Days of Christmas” themed parade. 9:45am at Gervais & Bull St. 799-1216. www. carolinacarillon.com December 10-18 The Nutcracker A holiday family tradition with extraordinary performance.

Weekend shows only with one show on Friday the 16th. Hours vary. Koger Center for the Arts.

251-2222. www.columbiacityballet.com December 16-18 The Magic of Brandon Wagster: A Christmas Dream An amazing holiday magic show with master magician Wagster with musical Christmas classics. Fun for all ages. Times and prices vary. Workshop Theatre, 799-4876. www.workshoptheatre.com December 19-January 2 Winter Fest

Escape the holiday crowds with family activities celebrating the winter season at the SC State Museum. Highlights include musical performances, holiday crafts, day camps, and Santa himself. Hours vary. 898-4952. www.southcarolinastatemuseum.org

November/ December 2011 | 13

Buzz » Art Seen

Artistic Bend With the skills of a honed metal worker, Ellen Yaghjian’s crafted art is music to your ears WRITTEN BY RACHEL HAYNIE

T

“Cabbage Rose”

torch mount, coaxing out the burnished colors that make the metal so alluring, she explains, then counters: “Heat makes the material move around, makes it hard to work with, but its aesthetic characteristics offset any challenges from its workability.”

Creative as it is, the art of copper fountain creation has a very mundane side, Yaghjian quickly learned. Without function, form has no where to lead. “From my art background, I had experienced three dimensional design, but I realized early on I needed to know much more about water lines and pumps, even electricity, in addition to some basic knowledge of metallurgy and hydrology. Fortunately, I like wandering around in hardware stores.”

Creating commissions expressly for clients is Yaghjian’s primary way of working.

“I like for the client to tell me as much as possible about his or her expectations and desires before we begin. They are part of the process, from concept to installation,” Yaghjian said. “Clients usually seek me out knowing fairly certainly what they want, or at least where they want the piece to be installed.”

Because every piece is site specific, learning in advance what the piece will accent or center, and what will surround it all factors into the drafting stage, long before Yaghjian creates a scale model from cardboard. Scale is an important consideration. Will the piece highlight a

“Sometimes the shape of a leaf from a tree shading the fountain is part of the design inspiration.” – Ellen Yaghjian

“Torso” 14 | ColumbiaLivingMag.com

Her school of hard knocks – and soft dribbles – came in part from her service after the sale philosophy. “When I first began creating fountains, I was often asked by the commissioner of the piece to provide occasional maintenance after the installation,” Yaghjian recalled. Some of her tutorials in making fountains that functioned as she had envisioned them resulted from after-market observations.

“When I went back to check them out, I sometimes found leaves trying to choke the waterline,” she said. Subsequent designs benefited from such discoveries.

garden or a public space, or blend into an existing landscape design? “Clients and I decide together on the optimum location.”

Although the visual aspect of each piece is key, sound is the quality most clients list as top priority. “What my commission clients often express first is they want to be able to hear it.” Yaghjian explained: “I knew before I began this work I could only get those sounds I love out of copper,” said Yaghjian, who also has experimented with stainless steel and even concrete, for their own inherent qualities. “The fountain’s sounds are affected by how far the water

PHOTOGRAPH (1) BY ELAINE FLOYD; PHOTOGRAPHS (4) COURTESY OF ELLEN YAGHJIAN

empering copper with her torch begins the graceful designs Ellen Emerson Yaghjian foresees for a fountain creation long before the metal is sheared or lovingly hammered.

Whether a piece comes to life in her own Shandon studio or the Georgia studio of fabricator Tim Piazza, with whom she’s collaborated for fourteen years, it is always exhilarating to see her designs draw first breath.

It was fountains she saw during an art study abroad that infused the idea of sculpture and water features. “We saturated ourselves in the art of Cortona, Florence, Venice,” recalled Yaghjian, “but it was the Trevi Fountain in Rome that influenced me most.”

Feeling especially creative in 1991, having just given birth to daughter Clare, she began synthesizing her background in sculpture and art into fountain design and creation – working mostly in copper. The soft, malleable metal, prized for its beauty throughout recorded history, compels an artisan’s patience and craft if the material is to assume an artistic bend.

“Copper can have a mind of its own,” Yaghjian said. But as temperatures from the

“Flying Dog”

“Water Event”

drops, the body of water it drops into, and that is relative to the size of the bowl and its capacity.”

There’s always an exception. Her mantra is that each piece be true to itself and the client’s wishes, but Yaghjian was taken aback when an out-of-state client opted out of the aural feature most owners mandate for their fountains. “He requested a fountain that was visually soothing, but made no noise,” said Yaghjian, who did not question his reasons – although he soon explained.

“Much of his business is conducted on the phone, and he didn’t want clients to be distracted by the background sound the fountain would make.” Yaghjian drafted numerous designs before arriving at one that worked. In the fountain the client now has enjoyed in his Atlanta office for a decade, water rides along the metallic contours, then slides down slowly, arriving so close to the surface water in the bowl it makes not a sound.

That indoor piece, in a business environment, represents approximately one third of the commissions Yaghjian has fulfilled in the two decades she has been designing, creating and installing fountains within the region. One, the focal point of a public park in North Carolina, is surrounded by plantings of 450 roses. Most of the others are in residential gardens.

An outdoor fountain for the wall surrounding a family’s swimming pool would have been lost of that brick

expanse if Yaghjian had not positioned it to take advantage of foliage around it. By integrating the fountain into the overall landscape design, she created a feature that enhances, as opposed to dominating, its usually-shaded spot. When the homeowner downsized to a smaller home in a retirement community, the fountain was one of the treasures that followed her into a new phase of life.

On an exterior wall of a Forest Acres home, another fountain, this one created for the art collecting couple residing there, delineates the walkway leading to the front entrance. It welcomes family and greets guests the couple is noted for hosting. Entitled Cabbage Rose, the piece is by far the largest flower in the couple’s garden.

As the focal point of a raised flower bed in an urban garden thriving in the university neighborhood, another fountain adds height, textural contrast, interest – and the suggestion something is blooming year ‘round. Its name, Flying Dog, sounds playful; it’s also the name of a yoga pose. In addition to her fountain designs, Yaghjian is a certified yoga instructor.

Water coursing through copper contours in Ein Gedi, the fountain commissioned for the Katie and Irwin Kahn Jewish Community Center in Northeast Columbia, symbolizes eternal life. Banked by living plants to further represent life, the fountain has been flowing since the center’s opening ceremonies in 2005.

The most public piece Yaghjian has created so far is the focal point of space the American Rose Society called “the finest public rose garden in the country.”

Syd Alexander, a board member of the Gene Strowd Community Rose Garden in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, said Yaghjian’s abstract fountain “sets a tone, creates an atmosphere that draws visitors to play, relax, reflect – even celebrate. We’ve had weddings here. The fountain centers the garden in many ways.”

Never at a loss for new inspirations, Yaghjian inventories ideas. “My camera and desktop are extensions of my sketchbook,” said the artist whose visual career began at South Carolina Educational Television soon after she received her Master of Media Art from the University of South Carolina. Beginning behind the camera, she completed that phase of her career as first assistant director.

Those camera years serve her well in her artistic pursuits today. “If I can see it in my mind’s eye, I can create it.” To see more, go to scfountain.com.

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2011 Christmas limited edition print and greeting cards ) Artful gift idea... can be personalized with names of family or friends. Available framed and unframed ) handpainted holiday ornaments ) original paintings, large and small Special gallery hours throughout November and December; call for specific times and events

Thursdays and Fridays 12-5:30 Saturdays 12-4 ) other days by appointment 108 Beaufort Street, Chapin, SC 803.345.6588 www.judyjarrettgallery.com Celebrating the gallery’s 21st anniversary!

November/ December 2011 | 15

Buzz » Staff Picks

Historical Fiction for the Holidays Cuddle up this holiday season with one of these great books ERH IRNS] ER I\GITXMSREP I\TPSVEXMSR MRXS XLI ½GXMSREP TEWX WRITTEN BY COURTNEY WEBB

Before Ever After

by Samantha Sotto

S

ome love stories are immortal. The tale of the love shared by Shelly and Max is just that except for the premise that one of them is possibly truly able to live forever. This moving story of a young widow who finds that her lost husband may possibly be alive is both magical and mysterious in every way possible. Combine modern tragedy with two parts historical fiction and an abundant dose of realistic fantasy and you get author Samantha Sotto’s ambitious debut novel Before Ever After. It’s truly a work of both otherworldly and realistic proportions that once began, is perfectly paced and deliciously told. Lovers of a multitude of genres will find their journey into this book both worthwhile and enchanting.

The Twelfth Enchantment

Becoming Marie Antoinette

History, romance, adventure and magic all combine with Regency England in David Liss’ newest novel The Twelfth Enchantment. Readers will find themselves adrift in a world of society and manners where the fantastical idea of witches and magic collide with the fashionable Ton. The protagonist young Lucy Derrick has lived secluded for years as a ward of a miserly uncle until a dashing figure arrives on her doorstep and unleashes her journey into discovering her own mystical powers.

Nothing is as it seems, as the drama unfolds and even the devilish Lord Byron makes an appearance in this stylish tome.

Suspension of belief is essential but in the end the novel is a well-blended mix of historical fiction and fantasy for those who enjoy more than your average foray into the past.

Sometimes it’s best to begin at the beginning. This first novel in an upcoming much anticipated trilogy details the early life of the well-known Marie Antoinette.

As a first person narrative the story is told by the young naïve Toinette and begins by detailing her life as a child growing up as a Princess of Austria. This addictive telling then continues to follow the supposedly frivolous Marie Antoinette on as she makes her famed entrance to the dazzling Palace of Versailles as the notorious Dauphine of France. Wellresearched and lovingly written with sparkling detail, this first volume is not to be missed by lovers of historical fiction or Marie Antoinette dedicated works.

by David Liss

16 | ColumbiaLivingMag.com

by Juliet Grey

Well Styled Beauty

» Fashion

Luscious Nude Lips Follow these simple steps to create this season’s hottest looks

T

he nude lip looks like one of the most simple makeup trends of today. When asked, over 60% of women felt more comfortable in nude shades of lipstick than medium or dark tones, and thought the lighter colors are easier to apply. What they really mean is the flesh tones are more forgiving when the application is effortless and not in front of a mirror. But do not be fooled, the perfect nude lip that is famous today is one of precision and technique. Kim Kardashian flaunts a prime example of today’s top trend. Clear lip gloss will not do the trick, but paired with a few more products and the proper tools, you can achieve beautiful nude lips. Here are some tips for you to try at home:

the nude lips, you will want the more shaded style for this example.

4

After applying liner, take a clean lip brush and blend the edge of the liner in towards the center of the mouth. This will enhance the darker outer edge, and fade the color moving inward.

5

With a lip brush, apply the nude lip color in the center of the lips and blend into the liner. Again you want to continue the light to dark effect. Also when choosing a nude lip color, keep in mind that fair skin tones look better in the lighter pinkish shades, while medium to dark skin tones look better in peachy/beige nudes.

1

Just like makeup for the face is only as good as the skin underneath, your lipstick will only look as good as your lips underneath. Since the skin on your lips does not have oil or sweat glands, they can easily become dry and chapped.

A lip exfoliator should be used to slough off any dead, flaky skin. Then follow with a soothing lip balm or conditioner.

2

Dab a small amount of foundation on the lips to neutralize your natural lip color and create a clean palette for the nude lip color. If your natural lip shade is highly pigmented, then choose a foundation that is one or two shades lighter than the one used for the face. Give the foundation a little time to adsorb into the lip, or blot onto a tissue to set quickly if time is an issue.

3

Choose a lip liner that is two shades darker than the color chosen for the lip color. Outline the entire lip creating a thick line. This step is where you need to use more precision. To create the thick line on the lip, hold the liner vertically so that the application will have a thick, more shaded effect. (When liner is held horizontally while applied it will go on thinner and have more concentrated color.) Since the goal is to blend darker to lighter on

6

Lastly, place a high shine lip gloss into the center of the lip. This can be clear in color or a nude tone. The main thing to keep in mind when using a colored gloss is that you do not want to cover up the shading that you created with liner and lip color.

7

If you really want the best looking nude lips, then take one more simple step – use a whitening gel or toothpaste to polish your teeth to their whitest! Nude lip colors can make teeth seem more yellow, so daily or weekly use a whitening product that will keep them glowing. You are sure to see a difference!

– Dia Andrews

November/ December 2011 | 17

Well Styled » Fashion

Holiday-Style ’Dos Fast and festive hairstyles that will compliment your wardrobe

I

f your holiday season is anything like mine, it revs up early in November and doesn’t slow down until after Santa has delivered all of his presents and the New Year has been brought in with style!

So, needless to say, there isn’t much time for any of us social overachievers to think too much about our holiday wardrobes and hairstyles. (Let’s face it, there are

style aspect of this holiday season effortless.

In terms of hairstyles, one look that is going to be popular this season is the chignon. The name sounds really fancy, but in layman’s terms, it’s nothing more than a knot of hair that is worn near the nape of the neck. The good news about this look is that it’s easy to do and you shouldn’t worry about it looking perfect. In fact, the less Chignon

style

Short Hair

PHOTOGRAPHS (3) COURTESY LAROQUE

style avy Hair Long W

To style this look, Smith says your hair needs to have texture. So, if you are fixing hair straight out of the shower, make sure you add some sort of product such as mousse, texturizing sprays, or hair putty.

Then, blow the hair dry and pop in some hot rollers to give the hair volume and bend. When you get ready to style your chignon, simply gather your hair in your

Dress styles from LaRoque that pair well with each hairdo.

more important things to be concerned about such as whether or not someone was accidentally left off of our gift list or what to do with all of the fruit cake gifts piling up in the kitchen.) Lucky for us, though, we’ve got tips from the pros to make the 18 | ColumbiaLivingMag.com

put together it looks, the better! “More of it’s just youthful and fun and…not-sofixed…almost where it’s going to just fall down at any moment,” says Carla Smith, part owner and stylist at Signature Salon in Lexington.

hand and tie it into a low ponytail (you can set the ponytail directly in the center of the back of your head or more towards the front of your face). After the hair is secure, grab the end of the ponytail and wrap the hair in a bun-like fashion around the base

of the ponytail. Lock it in place with a bobby pin or small clip and lightly spritz it with finishing and shine sprays.

To complete your chignon-inspired look, AnnaBelle LaRoque, owner and designer at LaRoque on Devine Street, suggests a dress or top that has a dramatic or open back. “It would show off the shoulder blade in the back‌the hair would be obviously off the back and you’d still have some detail with the low bun,â€? says LaRoque.

Another hairstyle that’s going to be huge this holiday season is curly or wavy hair. The beauty of this ‘do is that it doesn’t matter if your hair is long or short, naturally curly or naturally straight. We can all achieve this look!

If you have naturally curly or wavy hair, Francine Greco, another part owner and stylist at Signature Salon, says the key to styling it is having a great cut and correct products. Greco suggests using a sulfate-free shampoo (one that doesn’t lather a lot), along with a hydrating conditioner. Once you get out of the shower, scrunch some gel into your wet hair and then let it dry naturally or blowdry it with a diffuser on low heat and a medium speed.

If your hair is naturally straight and you want to add curls or waves, there are several options. If you’re looking for wavier strands (versus more curly), Smith suggests scrunching a lightweight gel into damp hair. You can also take wet hair, roll it up into an old-fashioned pin curl, secure it to your head, and let it dry.

When you unfasten the rolls, your hair will have beautiful waves! Of course, if you’re looking for tighter curls, the best option is to go with hot rollers or a curling iron.

With curly or wavy locks, the length of the hair comes into consideration when choosing an outfit. If your hair is short, LaRoque suggests a dress or top that frames the neck, such as a wrap dress or high-collared top, so that the eye is drawn up to the curls or waves. If your hair is longer, though, LaRoque suggests a simpler look, such as a strapless dress, so that the garment and hair do not compete for attention. – Mackenzie MatthewsTaylor

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Southern Drawl

Fueled By Vision

A native resident of Columbia demonstrates through hard work that dreams can be achieved WRITTEN BY JACKIE PERRONE

PHOTOGRAPH (1) BY JAY BROWNE; PHOTOGRAPHS (5) COURTESY OF DUPRE PERCIVAL

D

upre Percival came into the world with fireworks. He has lit up his community ever since, and looks forward to, well, an even brighter future.

“I am the oldest person born in the 1940’s,” he says. “I was born on January 1, 1940. I heard the fireworks and thought they were for me, and I’ve been on a roll ever since.”

He thinks that things are going his way now because of how much he has wanted it. Dupre Catering and Events has made its mark with catering services at every level, and now enjoys a headquarters property he believes to be second to none. All of this is a culmination of this Columbia native’s dream, fueled by talent, hard work and vision.

“I tried other things,” he says. “I was good at real estate, but it was never my passion. I spent time in the savings and loan business. Cooking is where my heart is, and I love serving others. Dupre Catering is everything I love.”

He grew up in the Eau Claire section of Columbia and graduated from USC in the 1950’s. His father also had fireworks on his birthday, July 4, 1905. His mother, Nina Percival, 97 years old, now lives at Lowman Home in White Rock.

Percival worked at real estate promotion, and in the savings-and-loan business. But an entrepreneurial spirit kept

The Michelle Bachman Rally event held at Dupre Percival’s Senate Street location.

beckoning; in the 1970’s he opened two restaurants, Pickel’s and McIntosh, in Irmo and Dentsville. At 50 years old, I turned in my real estate license,” he says. “It was time to plan my future in a new direction.”

The word “vision” comes up a lot in a conversation with Percival. His

Guignard family ghosts lurk in the shadows of this historic property.

A prominent feature of the classical architecture is original Guignard brick, fired in the kilns just across the river. The former Sterling Garden Center now goes by the name of Senate’s End, located

“I was good at real estate, but it was never my passion. Cooking is where my heart is, and I love serving others. Dupre Catering is everything I love.” – Dupre Percival

Dupre and his wife Gina taking it all in stride at one of their events.

22 | ColumbiaLivingMag.com

own vision, now shared by his family, has brought him to what he considers his dream property: the complex of old-brick buildings formerly The Sterling Garden Center, on lower Senate Street at the Congaree River.

just behind the City Club condominium development and at the site of Columbia’s first ferry landing. Four distinctive buildings, in various stages of restoration, offer venues for weddings, parties, and professional meetings, with Dupre

Dupre Percival »Birthplace: Columbia, SC »Family: Wife, Gina; Children, Larry, Robert, and Anna »Current Interest: Food and people are a key interest, always looking to go beyond to offer great service with our catering. »Passionate About: Giving his clients top notch service.

November/ December 2011 | 23

Catering providing the hospitality.

Nestled in the woods, at the waterfront, it’s easy to forget that you are in the heart of downtown Columbia, just minutes from the University and the State Capitol. The antique Guignard brick buildings fit comfortably into the forested grounds, secluded and quiet while Columbia’s skyline punctuates the horizon. Percival’s wife of three years, Gina, furnishes artistic talent while sharing the vision. Bob Percival works with his father as asset manager, and Bob’s fiancée Michelle Forrest serves as event planner.

Their wedding date is set for next summer.

Bob’s brother Larry is an aeronautical engineer in Connecticut. So far he has resisted joining the family business.

While Percival is happy with his versatile headquarters property, he emphasizes also that they provide catering and hospitality anywhere the customer wants: private home and condos, clubs and event-places. Outdoors or in, formal or informal, large or small - Percival is ready for the challenge.

Percival and his business gives back to the Midlands with its special capabilities by hosting fund-raisers for community charities. The Commission for the Blind, the Women’s Breast Cancer organization, and the South Carolina Philharmonic have benefited from gala occasions at Senate’s End. The Percival family agrees, there’s nowhere they would rather be and nothing they would rather be doing, than their present commitment to the Midlands. Senate’s End is their vision and their realty.

(top to bottom) Donnell Edwards and Bob Michalski entertain the crowd for a Founders Day celebration. Wedding event setup underway at Senate Street. Spacious interior with plenty of room for events and outside deck.

24 | ColumbiaLivingMag.com

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Home & Garden

Classic Comeback

The Chastains opt for a major home remodel with new designs to suit the whole family WRITTEN BY MELISSA SPROUSE-BROWNE

»

PHOTOGRAPHS BY JAY BROWNE

A

lexandra and Jason Chastain had decided to move. They started the house hunting process, looking at the possibilities for purchase. Alex recalls visiting a home for sale that she found particularly well decorated. She noticed several elements of design that spoke to her sensibilities and in that moment, she realized her current home could be renovated – there was no need to move after all.

The Chastains took on a serious home renovation, making major changes in the formal living room, family room, kitchen, laundry room, master bath, dining room and foyer. With such a big undertaking, getting the right look and feel was critical.

Researching various designers who shared her vision became a passion for Alex.

“I studied the Verve Interiors website and Facebook page,” she shared. “They have a group approach I really like. As a client, it’s reassuring that you have more than one person’s opinion. There’s a little more contemplation of each element. So, if you find there are five designers voting one way and you’re voting another, you might want to reconsider your position!”

Mint Condition: The addition of two new stainless steel ovens and granite countertops are a couple of the smaller improvements the Chastains made to their renovated home (below).

As the professionals at Verve worked to develop the design plan, Alex used technology to speed along the process. She would save images on her iPad and then could reference those during consultations.

Starting in the kitchen, they made the existing hardwood floors darker, which was continued throughout the downstairs.

Thick granite countertops were added, with a tall granite backsplash. “The granite was wrong the first time it was installed because they made an error with the seams,” said Stephanie Abernathy, a designer with Verve Interiors. “We finally found a source that had a matching lot of granite, providing the perfect match to what we already had.”

Walls in the kitchen are a surprising chocolate brown topped by nine foot, high gloss ceilings. An existing built-in desk was 26 | ColumbiaLivingMag.com

A kid friendly designed family room with maps on the wall of all the special places the family has been.

November/ December 2011 | 27

Keepsakes: The formal living room is comfortable and chic, dressed in coordinating animal prints, some made from relatives clothes.

changed to be a more traditional cabinet structure. Mirrored fronts were added and the cabinets throughout the rest of the kitchen were refaced as well. “The kitchen’s mirrored cabinets are a way to hide our messiness,” said Alex. “We all have our own hidden cubbies, so there is a definite place to put the mail out of sight, which makes me really happy.”

Another factor in the kitchen redesign was changing the appliance configuration to meet her cooking needs.

The existing ovens weren’t large enough, so they added two sleek stainless steel, state of the art Jenn-Air ovens. The task lighting was also upgraded to recessed can lighting.

The final piece that brought the kitchen remodel to a close was the cabinet hardware. Verve’s designers suggested long, brushed nickel bar pulls, which look amazing. “I remember stressing over 28 | ColumbiaLivingMag.com

the pulls on the kitchen cabinets and thought the ones they suggested were too contemporary, but now I love them,” Alex said.

By removing the blue color from the walls in the dining room, which was so dominant, attention is now drawn to the unusual ceiling treatment of textured wallpaper. It has a muted snakeskin finish and is surrounded by crown molding with dentil detail trim. The heavy wood table in the dining room is finished with a centerpiece of large seashells and white coral, which goes along with Alex and Jason’s love of shells and fish.

“One of the best things we did was to remove the colors from the walls in the dining room and the foyer. It has a calm feel now, very classic,” Alex said. “We changed from blue in the dining room and ‘paper bag brown’ in the foyer to a nice cream base.”

From the foyer into the family room, the Chastains had to tie the existing light hardwood floors to extend into the family room, where there used to be carpet. This flooring was also darkened to match the kitchen for a much warmer feel. One of the challenges with adding new hardwoods to old hardwoods was creating a believable transition. She really didn’t want a traditional threshold, but insisted that the hardwoods move seamlessly into the family room as if they had been there originally.

Her goal was achieved and you could never tell the room’s flooring wasn’t part of the original installation.

Stephanie noted that Alex buys pieces that she loves and has bought several great things over the years that are now easy to incorporate into her new design. In the formal living room, the sofa was purchased from Verve over five years ago. The secretary

was Alex’s mother’s; the zebra rug was a family piece and had to be rehydrated for use. The fish were a gift from Jason’s aunt.

The glass coffee table she just saw one day and fell in love with it. But, the most fun piece in the room is the Cheetah pillow, which was made from one of her mother’s mini skirts.

The chairs in the formal living room were the subject of much controversy. There were two chairs that were contemplated and no one could decide if they were really the best fit for the space. After thinking about the chairs and suitable alternatives, Alex and Jason decided to let the designers vote, agreeing to abide by their decision. The chairs were finally selected and placed in the room as a surprise to Alex. Luckily for everyone, they were Jason’s pick, too.

When designing the family room, kid friendly was the order of the day. Alex’s direction was to be beautiful but easy to clean. Originally, it was an awkward area, never having enough seating. They also considered lightening up the wood, but Jason wanted to keep a masculine feel to the room.

Every single piece of furniture is

new, totally transforming the space. The only thing that was existing are the maps on the walls, which they already had. Each of the maps represents a place special to their family. One map is of the Cheasapeake Bay in Maryland, where Alex grew up; another map is of the Washington DC streets from 1872; yet another is of the oyster beds from Winyah Bay in Georgetown, where they were married; and the final two maps are of South America and Edisto Beach. Both of Alex’s parents are from South America, and Edisto Beach is a favorite place which was frequented by the couple when they were dating.

“To have that personal collection available was so great when doing the room,” said Stephanie.

The Chastains have two young sons, both under six years old. One or both boys will be dressed as a super hero at any given point and having furniture able to withstand the rigors of play was critical. “You never know when you’ll see Spiderman jumping off the patterned zebra-stamped cowhide ottoman,” shared Alex. A real bonus: the sectional sofa is microfiber, but doesn’t look like it. The fabric actually resembles cork.

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Things to Come: The master bedroom is on the plans for some future updates.

November/ December 2011 | 29

New Life: The round dining table offsets the straight lines throughout the room. The master bathroom offers tranquility with its crisp whites, with just a splash of color with the animal print ottoman.

Since it’s treated microfiber, spills stay on top of the fabric for easy clean-up.

In fact, the sofa has already had wine spilled on it, which simply wiped away without leaving any stain whatsoever.

Two sets of nesting tables reside on both ends of the sectional, topped by lamps made of heavy metal. If they were to fall, no harm would be done. They’re ‘Spiderman’ friendly.

The cabinet in the corner of the family room is the result of a leap of faith that Alex left to the professional recommendation of the designers. Alex first saw the cabinet in a decorating blog, where it had been utilized as a bar with a large mirror over it. Within a month, her designer sent her a picture of a bar cabinet. It turned out to be the same cabinet!

“Sometimes, you can appreciate something in someone else’s home, but not think it’s right for your own,” confided Alex. “ The cabinet felt a little too hip or cool for me, with its Asian, zen feel.” With 30 | ColumbiaLivingMag.com

a parchment exterior and mother of pearl on the two handles, it’s a great storage piece and is perfect for the corner space. Alex decided to trust the designer’s suggestion and purchase the cabinet. “That’s why you

hire professionals, to let them guide you,” she said.

Health » Diet

We l l n e s s

Managing Holiday Stress Strategies and tips to help bring you happier holidays WRITTEN BY LINDA H. LAMB

PHOTOGRAPH (1) COURTESY OF DR. MCLEOD-BRYANT

A

llegedly, Santa Claus stays organized and jolly during the holidays by making a list and checking it twice. You can do the same – just be sure to put “stress relief ” near the top of your list.

That can be a challenge, of course. It’s stressful just thinking about how you’ll create a holiday celebration that compares to Mom’s, let alone to Martha Stewart’s. And tallying up your seasonal spending – on everything from your kid’s wish list to the price of cloves – might make you want to add more brandy to the eggnog.

The irony of holiday stress is that it’s often the people and plans we cherish most that complicate things.

Ashley Petty of Columbia knows all about that. She loves holiday gatherings with extended family members, but the logistics aren’t easy since her husband’s family is in North Carolina.

“The presents, the decorating, none of that stresses me out,” says Petty, 34, an interior designer.

“It’s just trying to be everywhere, trying to see everyone,” she says.

“We would go to North Carolina a couple days before Christmas, then come back here. It became ‘Christmas in the car.’ I felt like we should have a Christmas tree on the dashboard.”

With 2-year-old son Greene in the picture, the Pettys now insist on spending Christmas morning at home.

As for their travel plans, “we’re still working it out,” she says.

Anything that disrupts your normal schedule can generate stress. That’s true even for holiday happenings you look forward to and enjoy, says Dr. Stephen McLeod-Bryant, a psychiatrist with the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston.

So one smart coping strategy, he says, is to stick to your normal schedule as much as possible.

“Keep up your exercise habits, for example. Whatever your routines are that work for you the rest of the year, maintain those routines,” says McLeod-Bryant, an associate professor at MUSC and medical director of the Mental Health Service Line, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.

There’s nothing wrong with allowing yourself some moody moments amid the merry ones. Who doesn’t feel a twinge of melancholy when Karen Carpenter comes on the radio singing

“Merry Christmas, Darling”? But some situations may put you more at risk for stress at this time of year, McLeod-Bryant says.

For instance, he says, the loss of a loved one may hit you especially hard – even if the person has been gone for years. Or family conflicts that are usually kept under wraps might erupt when everyone gets together, especially if alcohol’s involved.

Economic pressures are another source of stress. “Many people feel guilty that they’re not able to provide the way they feel they should,” McLeod-Bryant says.

And even though we’re in the South, he says, some people are particularly sensitive to the shorter days and loss of light as winter sets in. The result: sad moods and sleeping difficulties that just happen to coincide with the holidays.

Every busy mom knows about another potential source of stress: all those “shoulds” in your head. Maybe you’ve always had 30 people for Thanksgiving, decorated lavishly, baked for friends, directed the church program – and every year, you feel you should replicate your stellar performance.

A sensible friend might advise you to take it easy on yourself. Just do what you can, and concentrate on enjoying the season. Interestingly, a crisis can have the same effect.

Marcia Purday celebrated the holidays to the hilt, especially after she and her husband adopted three children. Their traditions included a carefully planned gift calendar featuring photos of the kids – all of whom had personal Christmas trees in their rooms.

But in 2009, Purday had some family issues that made it difficult at best to continue with these traditions.

“That was the Christmas I said, ‘I can’t do it all anymore,’” says Purday, a public relations specialist. “I had to learn to let go, to be healthy – not just for myself, but for my family.”

Turned out, Purday’s kids were okay with not having trees in their rooms. Their downsized celebration “became more about the spirit of Christmas,” Purday says.

McLeod-Bryant suggests more time to reflect and relax -and less time in front of the TV, which so efficiently stokes anxiety about what we should be doing, feeling and buying.

Jeremy Bryant, 27, a self-professed “Christmas fanatic to the nth degree,” stays on top of things with a top-notch organizational system. It’s a must for making a winter wonderland out of the Columbia home he shares with spouse Chuck Archie.

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Treating You Like Family

Christmas, so I guess that’s where it comes from,” he says.

Bryant, an executive assistant, loves his decorating projects. (This year, he’s doing a South Carolina tree with Spanish moss, pineapples and wrens.) But he and Archie also seek ways to make a difference this time of year, such as “adopting” a needy child for Christmas.

“At Christmas it’s so easy to find ways to help people out,” Ashley Petty agrees. “When you remember those who are less fortunate, it’s a reality check. You’ve got to remember what’s really important.”

Stress Relief Tips

Here are some suggestions for finding holiday comfort and joy:

S e n i o r s F i r s t H o m e C a r e o f f e r s a u n i q u e v a r i e t y o f s e r v i c e s t o h e l p m a i n t a i n t h e h i g h e s t l e v e l o f i n d e p e n d e n c e p o s s i b l e :

Dr. Stephen McLeod-Bryant, psychiatrist and associate professor at the Medical University of South Carolina.

ό C o m p a n i o n s h i p / S i t t e r S e r v i c e s ό A s s i s t a n c e w i t h A c t i v i t i e s o f D a i l y L i v i n g ό R e s p i t e C a r e ό L i g h t H o u s e k e e p i n g ό T r a n s p o r t a t i o n ό A n d M u c h M o r e !

» Face your feelings honestly. If this is a tough time, it is OK to acknowledge grief or sadness.

» Religious or social events –

especially volunteering to help others – can help counter feelings of isolation.

» Make a list of things you really want to do and let other stuff slide. And stick to your budget.

» Overindulging in food and drink

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will only add to your stress. Get enough sleep and exercise.

» Take time to meditate on the

meaning of the season. Counter stress with relaxation techniques such as yoga and slow, abdominal breathing.

» Can’t shake the holiday blues? Talk to a therapist or counselor.

Source: mayoclinic.com.

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At Square One Salon, we love to pamper you from head to toe November/ December 2011 | 33

Health » Diet

Kid Friendly Holiday Snacks Tips and easy recipes for healthy snacks your kids will love this season WRITTEN BY EDNA COX, RD, CSG, LD

T

he holidays are here again! And with the season come parties, family time, fun and food, lots of food. Kids are having parties during school and after with the family and friends.

Sweets, candy, and desserts are abundant.

Cookies are everywhere, and are even made to be given as gifts. It’s often difficult to limit sugar intake and encourage healthier options with so many seasonal favorites.

With a little creativity you can turn holiday snacks and desserts into good-for-you options. Here are some quick solutions that make a difference.

Reduce Sugar

Increase Fiber

»

» Substitute 100% whole wheat flour for

Sugar is often a key ingredient in holiday recipes, adding empty calories and a sugar high for the kids. Adjust recipes and reduce the amount of sugar by 1/3, saving 100 calories + per recipe.

» Agave and Stevia are two natural

sweetners that are calorie free and chemical free, so they are a better choice for kids.

Add fresh or frozen fruits to cake and cupcakes to add flavor and vitamins and minerals.

» When reducing the

amount of sugar in a recipe, increase the spices like cinnamon and nutmeg or flavorings like vanilla and hazelnut and the sugar will never be missed.

» Use boxed cake or cupcake mixes, add

1 cup bran or oatmeal to boost the fiber, vitamin and mineral content and enhance the flavor.

» Serve bean dip

and salsa, instead of the usual mayonnaise based dip, with 100% whole grain chips.

» Use 100% whole

grain or whole wheat crackers with cheese or any snacks.

Lower Fat

» Limit soda and fruit

» Switch from whole

» Fruit butters are lower in sugar (only 20 calories per tablespoon) and taste great spread on a whole grain cracker or bread.

» Choose dips made

juice that kids drink.

Make a Fruit Juice Punch Use 100% fruit juice, add soda water instead of Sprite or 7Up to offer a reduced sugar holiday beverage.

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bland white flour, your family won’t even notice.

fat to lower fat creams, mayonnaise, cheese, meat, and milk. with yogurt, beans, hummus instead of mayonnaise, fat, or cream cheese.

» Use applesauce to replace butter or oil in recipes.

» Walnuts or almonds work well in many

holiday recipes or as a snack and add some healthy fats, vitamins and minerals.

Kids will love being involved in preparing any of these fun snacks.

» Have the kids select red and green

fruits for dipping in yogurt or to make festive kabobs: Red fruit - apples, red grapes, strawberries, pomegranate, cherries, cranberries. Green fruit – green apples, green grapes, kiwi, avocado (yes it’s a fruit), fresh or frozen honey dew melon.

» Stuff dates with walnuts or low fat cream cheese.

» Use holiday cookie cutters to shape

sandwiches of turkey and low fat cheese.

Decorate the sandwiches with halved grape tomatoes or diced green, red and yellow bell peppers.

» Make a holiday wreath with broccoli and trim with red and yellow bell pepper.

Broccoli and Cauliflower Wreath

» Dip pretzels in yogurt and decorate with sprinkles.

These quick solutions can add a refreshing twist to holiday favorites. Fill your holidays with new memories and healthy traditions!

Recipes Whole Wheat Sugar Cookies

Prep: 20 minutes Cook: 12 minutes Chill: 4 hours 1¼ cups flour ¼ cup whole wheat flour ¼ tsp salt ½ tsp baking soda 4 ounces unsalted butter, softened 1/3 cup granulated sugar 1/3 cup light brown sugar 1 egg white 1¼ tsp pure vanilla extract ¼ tsp pure almond extract 1. Whisk together first 4 ingredients in a medium bowl.

2. Beat butter and sugar together in a separate bowl until light and fluffy. Scrape sides of bowl, add egg white and vanilla and almond extracts; beat until just combined.

3. Add flour mixture, and stir until incorporated. Cover bowl with plastic wrap, and chill for at least 4 hours.

4. Preheat oven to 325°. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.

5. Dust a work surface with flour. Turn out chilled dough directly onto work surface. Roll dough out to a ¼ inch thickness. Use holiday cookie cutters to cut shapes in dough, and gently transfer them onto baking sheets.

6. Bake for 12 minutes or until set but not browned. Remove cookies from oven, and cool for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

7. Let the kids decorate!

Nutrition Info: Calories 126, Protein 1g, Fiber 2g, Fat 4g.

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

This is great fun for kids because they get to dig the seeds out of the slimy pumpkin. The roasted seeds are a flavorful snack and Mom’s pumpkin pie can’t be beat.

1½ cup raw pumpkin seeds 2 tsp butter melted 1 pinch salt Preheat oven to 300° Toss seeds in a bowl with the melted butter and salt. Spread the seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for about 45 minutes or until golden brown, stir occasionally.

Servings per recipe – 6 Nutrition Info: Calories 83g, Protein 3g, Total Fat 4.5g.

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Try these healthy dips with Cinnamon Tortilla Chips:

Fruit Salsa

1 apple peeled, cored and diced 1 cup sliced strawberries 2 kiwis peeled and sliced 1 cup red and green grapes halved 1 tbsp fresh lime juice 2 tbsp sugar ½ tsp ground cinnamon ½ tsp nutmeg Mix all ingredients together in a bowl.

Cover and chill in refrigerator for at least 20 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Info: ¼ cup – Calories 70, Protein 1g, Fiber 2g.

Apple Party Dip

1 1/3 peeled, diced apples 1 tsp fresh lemon juice 2 tsp brown sugar 2 tsp apricot preserves 1/8 tsp cinnamon Mix all ingredients together in a bowl.

Cover and refrigerate. This dip may be served warmed or chilled.

Nutrition Info: ¼ cup – Calories 70, Protein 1g, Fiber 2g.

Cinnamon Tortilla Chips

5 – 6 inch whole wheat flour tortillas 2 tbsp butter, melted ½ tsp cinnamon 1½ tsp sugar Brush tortillas with melted butter and cut into wedges. Arrange wedges on greased baking sheet. Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar. Bake at 350° until golden brown, about 10 minutes. Cool and serve with either salsa or party dip.

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Holiday

Gift Guide

1. Natural Beauty Parade Designs 18k white & yellow gold ring with natural colored diamonds. $4,375. Carolina Fine Jewelry, 736-0415.

5. Donner & Blitzen A wonderful pair of holiday glitter reindeer, perfect for the mantel or elsewhere. $64.95. Meeting Street Interiors, 791-0008.

3. Velveteen Santa Lightweight tapestry jacket by Painted Pony is chic and comfortable. $180. Mae’s On Main, 359-4545.

6. Sea Creatures

2. Drinks on the House

Nautical decorative pillows in a variety of shapes, sizes, and fabrics. $79. NauticalDecorHut.com.

Hammered metal drink table with FVSR^I ½RMWL QEOIW E TIVJIGX EGGIRX to any decor. $98. Verve Interiors, 799-0045.

4. See You Later Alligator Anne Klein croc-leather pumps. $70.

Round Robin, 771-7610.

November/ December 2011 | 37

Holiday

Gift Guide

9. Davis Divas Original oil on canvas artwork by local artist Bill Davis. $295 with frame. The Frame Shop, 256-1601.

7. Reindeer Games

11. Metal Magic

Warm and snugly boy and girls winter clothes by Zackali 4 Kids. $62.50$69.50. The Carousel, 743-4442.

Beautiful monogrammed necklaces MR WXIVPMRK WMPZIV SV KSPH ½PPIH Perfect for you or as a gift. $160.

Just the Thing, 771-9969.

10. All Dressed Up Fun and trendy dresses by Lilly Pulitzer. $298-$328. Pink Sorbet, 251-2525.

8. Dragonfly Torch Hand painted garden torches add beauty and light to your outdoor living area. $65-$99. Casual Living, 790-5066.

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12. Let It Snow Stay warm this season with these ski toboggans in an array of color choices. $25-$29.

Southern Ski, 781-1215..

Tis Better to Give-And Receive -This Holiday Season 13. In A Twist

17. Zip It

Handcrafted cable bracelits by Alisa, in sterling silver with 18k gold. $1,100.

Sylvan & DuBose Jewelers, 799-5417.

Brighton’s large pouch handbags in GSPSVM½G LYIW ERH WLMR] QIXEPPMGW are the season’s dynamic duo. $120.

Dia’s Merle Norman & Boutique, 743-9010.

15. Cool Fashion Oh My Gauze mix & match resort wear. $44.95-$65. Especially For You, 227-0106.

18. Eye Candy

14. Sole Enjoyment

Tory Burch sunglasses with interchangeable logo pieces in black/gold and white/gold combinations. $200s. Folline Vision Center, 790-0902.

Plush and comfortable boots by Ugg, in a variety of colors and styles. $99-$165.

Tootsies Children’s Shoes, 738-1873.

16. Bird On A Wire “A Song of Rejoicing” limited edition print by local artist Judy Jarrett. $45. Judy Bolton Jarrett Art Gallery, 345-6588.

November/ December 2011 | 39

Holiday Décor

Five local designers share some insider tips to help you deck the halls this season WRITTEN BY JAMES D. MCCALLISTER » PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAY BROWNE

A

s one might expect, no one takes holiday decorating more seriously than people whose everyday work involves the enhancement and beautification of interior living spaces. So, in the spirit of the season, Columbia Living visited local interior design professionals to get their discerning take on the philosophy and enjoyment of holiday decor, and how their professional work life meshes with the demands of the season.

Steven Ford Interiors

Steven Ford, a professional interior design and floral expert for 25 years, takes his seasonal decorating seriously — with yearly repeat clients for whom he designs tasteful and elegant holiday accents and displays, he has no choice but to approach the season with a professional’s eye.

This doesn’t mean that his home decor suffers, however — so long as he gets his holiday finery in place by Thanksgiving. “The last thing I want to do is work for clients for two straight weeks and then come home to do my own decorating.”

And by his own decorating, he doesn’t mean a tossed-off afterthought — one look at the splendor and elegance of his entrance hall tree and staircase garland and it’s clear Steven has plenty of energy left over to make his personal home shimmer with tasteful holiday cheer.

As much as he revels in the wonder and elegance of the season, however, he looks forward not only to the brief respite afforded him at the end of the holidays, but also to getting those decorations stored and moving on to new challenges.

“It’s a quieter time — closing out the year, with people on vacation and so on. I use this time to get decorations all put away and then starting fresh on the new year.”

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November/ December 2011 | 41

Brandon Davidson Interiors

Brandon Shives is in a crucial time of life regarding the holiday season — her children are 4 and 6, “prime time” as she puts it for making Christmastime as magical as possible. With the enthusiasm and wonder of young children in the house, she fully embraces not only the formality of elegant seasonal displays, but also the whimsy and delight that children expect from the holidays.

Her entrance hall features a delightful, organic tableau of playful Mark Roberts fairies and elves, detailed creatures in whom her children may find the magic and playfulness of the holidays come to detailed life.

In addition to her live tree, which is highlighted by Christopher Radko ornaments, displays throughout the house are accented and highlighted by greenery that’s cut fresh from her own yard, though she cautions that this approach usually means replacing some of these as they dry out.

Growing up the holiday time was a very special and close time for her family, and she works hard to ensure that the tradition continues. However the house is decorated, she feels the holidays are about slowing down and spending time together. In general, her decorating advice is simple: “Everyone’s different — some people want to go small and simple, some want twinkling lights and bright colors. There’s no right and wrong in decorating for the holidays, so long as we remember the reasons we’re celebrating the season.” www.brandondavidsoninteriors.com

M Gallery Interiors

After a career in advertising and PR, and time as stay-at-home mom, Mandy Summers reentered the working world seven years ago by following her bliss, which combines her expertise at interior decorating with an admiration for art and artists. “I grew up with an interior decorator for a mom, so I was immersed in that world.”

Her gallery, located in Lexington’s Old Mill, features the work of local painters and designers. And while she doesn’t do seasonal decorating work for clients, she does find that, in the run up to the holiday season, she’s at her busiest with customers concerned about getting updates and changes to their everyday interiors completed with an eye toward the onslaught of visiting family and guests to come. “They want their house looking beautiful before the holidays get going.”

In her own home, which is decorated around pieces of specific art, she not only adds holly accents to all the frames, but also switches out certain everyday pieces for holiday-themed art.

In general, “Every room has its own color scheme and own personality, and that drives how I decorate for the holidays,” including her two adolescent children’s rooms, which are decorated to match existing color schemes.

However detailed her holiday decor, as with most families, Mandy says that heirlooms and keepsakes anchor and lend meaning to the season. “I can’t imagine our tree without my kids’ handpainted ornaments and other family mementoes incorporated.” www.mgalleryinteriors.net 42 | ColumbiaLivingMag.com

Mack Home

Anna Kemper and Marnie Clayton, proprietors of Mack Home, do plenty of interior design and seasonal work for commercial and residential clients this time of year, but that busy schedule doesn’t mean their personal attention to decorating suffers at home — “We have plenty left over to decorate for ourselves,” Anna says. “We love it.”

In fact, their approach is informed not only by the work that they do, but also their personal taste. This striking, candlelit holiday dining room is a flowing design that mixes metallic highlights, organic textures, and living greenery available right outside the back door, ideas that stem both from their discerning decorator’s eye, as well as the content of their thriving retail business in Trenholm Plaza.

“You’re not going to see a traditional Christmas wonderland of red and green with us — we feel naturallooking materials and textures can be used for holiday decorating, as well as in your everyday decor,” Marnie says.

Consisting of thousands of square feet of unique furniture, lighting fixtures, and objects d’art such as paintings by local artists, Anna and Marnie’s Mack Home offers its retail customers a full range of affordable gift and decorating ideas. www.mackhomecolumbia.com

LGB Interiors

Linda Goodwin of LGB Interiors says that, “Now that my children are getting older, my holiday decorating has taken a turn from being geared toward delighting kids back to formality.”

As the family host for Christmas dinner and a variety of other holiday gatherings, Goodwin makes the dining room the focal point of her seasonal decor, a room that must be functional, as she says, but also festive. “The dining room needs to be available for meals, cocktail parties, and coffees, all without having to be broken down in between events.”

Luckily for Goodwin, her everyday dining room decor, a faux finished, tone-ontone burgundy stripe motif, meshes well with an elegant holiday color palette. A cherished manger scene is the key element, she says, in an arsenal of family heirlooms that form the basis of her holiday decorations. Family and tradition, she says, at the heart of successful holiday decorating, more so than the artifice of twinkling lights and bright colors. www.lgbinteriors.com.

November/ December 2011 | 43

Home Economics

Executive chef Paul Cernansky invites us into his home for a holiday celebration ½PPIH [MXL HIPIGXEFPI JEQMP] JEVI WRITTEN BY KAREN PETIT

U

»

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAY BROWNE

nsurpassed service.

A passion for food.

Attention to detail, small and great. Could be a recipe for success.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Columbia is one of numerous restaurants in the nation’s largest chain of upscale dining facilities.

But executive chef Paul Cernansky is adamant about staying true to the brand and bringing individuality to meet “the people factor” of the customers who choose Ruth’s Chris for breakfast, lunch or dinner at the Hilton Hotel.

“When you are dealing with people, you can expect all kinds of situations,” he said, “and we have to be prepared. Each customer is an individual, and our staff recognizes this.

We really love what we do.”

Cernansky began his foray into cooking by helping prepare the family dinners. He loved cooking so much that he chose to take a home economics class in high school, a decision that required him to prove to the teacher that he was serious about his intentions.

After sharing some recipes with her, the teacher was convinced and Cernansky’s future career began to take shape.

Family Affair: Executive chef Paul Cernansky with his wife Kristine, preparing the main entrée of beef At age 15, Cernansky tenderloin. became a dishwasher at a local restaurant and worked He has worked for some of the were interrupted by trips to the bunker his way up the food chain. “On-the-job most well-known hotel chains – Hyatt, during bombings. “I fed military members training is critical in this business,” said Sheraton and Adam’s Mark – and was the and other people, and I have the greatest Cernansky, who savored the experiences head chef for more than two years in Iraq respect for the men and women in our and realized the value of an education by as part of a government contract. Although military,” he said. earning a degree from Johnson & Wales the stint still requires a measure of privacy, After returning to the United University in Providence, R.I. Cernansky will say that some dinners States, he became interested in the Ruth’s

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The Celebration: (clockwise from top left) Red and yellow cherry tomatoes. The main dish of Beef tenderloin prepared to perfection. Family and friends about to dig in – Sharon Hopper, George Floyd, Kristine Jensen, Paul Cernansky, Tony and Shelly Brundage. Fresh green beans with toasted pine nuts and wild mushrooms (see recipe). Spicy Cheese Gougeres. Paul and Kristine with the chef ’s special.

November/ December 2011 | 45

Chris restaurants and trained in Atlanta before coming to Columbia in 2007.

He follows the standards established by owner Ruth Fertel, who bought the Chris steakhouse in New Orleans and became an entrepreneur by growing the business to include establishments nationally and internationally. The restaurants feature seafood, lamb, pasta and chicken entrees, in addition to the signature steaks.

The growth, however, did not change the company’s commitment to excellence. “We still cut our filets, ribeyes, and New York strips in-house,” Cernansky said, “and I believe very much in being a hands-on chef. All of us work on the line and cook. We are all very hands-on, very involved. I can’t imagine not doing that.”

He acknowledges that “everyone has a personal steak preference” – his are the ribeye and cowboy ribeye – that are cooked to 1,800 degrees.

“A great steak begins with a great cut of beef. After that, it’s simplicity. Our steaks are prepared with salt and pepper and served with butter and parsley on a sizzling plate.”

His personal food creations can be found in the chef ’s specials that the restaurant offers. And chefs throughout all

Ruth’s Chris restaurants share their recipes in what must be one of the most soughtafter computer recipe files in the nation!

The chefs can use or adapt these recipes for specials at their own restaurants.

“In addition to the favorites that people love time and time again, we always have something new,” he said.

An extensive wine list is offered by the restaurant that has earned recognition from Wine Spectator magazine. And, for those people who still have room for a bite of dessert, temptations include a warm apple crumb tart, served with vanilla bean ice cream, a soothing crème brulee, and the Chocolate Sin Cake, a flourless chocolate cake that “is the smallest but the richest” of the desserts. All are made inhouse, including a local favorite –a peanut butter pie developed by one of the staff in Columbia.

“We love food. We are passionate about our business, and it shows,” said Cernansky, who enjoys cooking at home with his wife and two children.

“We strive to give the best service every single time. Our founder stressed that people love what they do, and we do!

That philosophy is very much part of our kitchen today.”

APPETIZERS

Salmon Mousse

1 Envelope gelatin 1 T grated onion 2 C poached flaked Salmon ¼ C cold water ¼ tsp Tabasco 1 C heavy cream ½ C boiling water ¼ tsp Paprika ½ C mayonnaise 1 tsp Salt 1 T lemon Juice 2 T chopped dill 1. Soften gelatin in cold water then add boiling water and mix until gelatin is dissolved.

2. Mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, onion, tabasco, paprika, salt, and dill. Stir completely and refrigerate for 20 minutes till mixture begins to thicken.

3. Fold in salmon. Whip cream to just stiff peaks and fold into mixture.

4. Put in a 6 – 8 Cup mold or bowl, chill for at least 4 hours.

Country Pate

The Little Dipper: An array of dipping sauces for the Gougeres.

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1 C minced onions or shallots 3 T unsalted butter ½ C dry white wine ¼ lb. chicken livers, trimmed of any visible fat Salt and freshly ground pepper ½ lb. fat back ½ lb. ground pork ½ lb. ground veal 1 large egg 3 TBS cognac or brandy

½ C diced ham ¼ C skinned pistachios To Line the Terrine: ¾ lb. pancetta or blanched bacon, sliced thin For the Spice Mix: 2 t. kosher salt 1 t. freshly ground black pepper ½ t. freshly ground all spice ½ t. ground coriander ¼ t. ground nutmeg ½ t. dried ginger 1. Saute the onions slowly in 2 T. of butter, 10-15 minutes. Add white wine and simmer until the wine has reduced by two thirds. Heat 1 T. butter in a skillet over medium heat. Season the livers with salt and pepper and saute until medium rare, 3-4 minutes. Let cool and chop into ½ inch pieces. Reserve any juices, set aside.

2. Fat keeps the pate moist. Adding fat to the forcemeat (the ground pork and veal) makes the pate smooth and moist. Whip the fat back in a food processor until creamy.

Set aside. Egg and flour hold the forcemeat together. A well-crafted pate is dense and moist enough that it can be cut into ½ inch slices that don’t fall apart. Season it well.

SALAD

2. Toss mixed lettuces in a bowl with ¾ of the dressing. Season with salt and pepper.

Divide salads between plates. Garnish with nuts, apples and beets, drizzle with dressing.

ENTREE

bed. Rub the outside of the meat with the remaining herbs and oil from the sundried tomatoes.

3. Size and personal taste will determine how long your tenderloin roasts, but generally, it’s about 30 minutes for med rare in the center. Remove from oven when finished, but allow the meat to rest 10-15 minutes before carving.

Beef Tenderloin

(When you purchase your tenderloin, have the butcher cut it open so that it is flat like a book page.) ½ jar sundried tomatoes packed in oil ½ a bag of pre-washed baby spinach 4 cloves of garlic, minced finely 6 sprigs each thyme, rosemary 4 sprigs of oregano 6 celery stalks, split lengthwise 3 large carrots, peeled and split lengthwise ½ a large onion, sliced 1. Preheat oven to 350°. Chop your herbs and garlic and combine. Julienne about ½ the jar of sun dried tomatoes in oil. Salt and pepper the tenderloin, then spread the ¾ of the combination of herbs, garlic and tomatoes over the flat open tenderloin.

Tightly roll the beef up and secure it with butcher’s twine.

2. Prepare your roasting pan by making a bed of the celery, carrots and onion. Lay your tenderloin on top of the vegetable

SIDES

Fresh Green Beans with Toasted Pine Nuts and Wild Mushrooms

2 Lb. green beans, snapped and strung ¼ c. pine nuts ¾ lb assorted mushrooms ¼ stick of butter 1. Add 2 TB butter more and add the mushrooms. Saute till they begin to sweat out their Begin by melting 2 TB butter in sauté pan. When the butter foams, add the pine nuts and toast till golden. Remove the pine nuts from heat but don’t clean the pan. moisture.

2. Add beans. Saute and toss the beans and mushrooms until crisp-tender. Add pine nuts and remove from pan to serving dish.

Deglaze the pan with white wine and pour over beans.

Winter Salad with Buttermilk Dressing ½ c. Duke’s Mayonnaise ¼ c. buttermilk ¼ c. crème fraiche or sour cream 2 TB. minced shallots 1 ½ TB. lemon juice Kosher salt and pepper to taste 1 lb. mixed greens ¾ c. toasted walnuts 1 tart apple, thinly sliced 1 raw medium beet, very thinly sliced 1. Place mayonnaise in a bowl. Stir in buttermilk, crème fraiche, shallots and lemon juice. Season dressing with salt and pepper.

November/ December 2011 | 47

any thick jam or filling).

Powdered sugar to decorate.

1. Sift together flour, baking powder.

Cream together butter, cream cheese, milk, sugar. Add beaten egg yolk and flour.

Form log, chill for several hours.

2. Cut into 2” rounds. Press thumb in center and fill with jam.

3. Bake at 400° for 10-12 minutes or until edges are pale golden. Sprinkle with powdered sugar just before serving. Makes about 30.

Chocolate-Mocha Truffles with Rum Tournedo Potatoes

4 lb. Bsize red potatoes 1 c. chicken broth ¼ lb. freshly grated asiago cheese Salt and pepper to taste 1. Trim potato ends. Peel the skin in 7 strips so that they look like tiny footballs.

Then slice the potatoes horizontally into ¼ inch slices. Place in baking dish. Pour over 1 c. chicken broth, season to taste with salt and pepper.

2. Bake for about 30 minutes at 350° or until finished. Remove baking dish and sprinkle the potatoes with the Asiago cheese. Replace in oven and let cheese get bubbly and golden. Serve hot!

DESSERT

Aunt Margaret’s Kolache

1 ½ c . sifted flour 1 T. sugar 1 egg yolk, beaten ½ t. baking powder 1 c. butter, softened 8 oz. cream cheese, softened 1 T. milk Your choice of jam or other filling (poppy seed is most traditional, but you can use

6 ounces fine quality bittersweet chocolate, cut up 6 T. sifted fine quality cocoa ½ c. confectioners’ sugar, sifted 2 T. instant coffee stirred into ½ c. heavy cream 2 T. rum or cognac For the coating: 3 T. cocoa mixed with 3T. powdered sugar, to roll the truffles in 1. Combine chocolate, cocoa and confectioners’ sugar in the bowl of a food processor. Run the machine on pulses until the chocolate is chopped very fine. Leave the work bowl in place. Heat the cream and coffee granules until the granules are dissolved. With the motor running, pour the mixture thru the feed tube. Blend until very smooth, scraping down the sides if necessary. Cool the mixture to lukewarm, then blend in the rum or cognac.

2. Scrape the mixture into a bowl, cover, chill until firm enough to shape, about 1 hour.

3. Scoop rounded teaspoonfuls (I use a melon baller) of the mixture and place rounds on a baking sheet or wax paper.

Cover with plastic wrap and chill again, several hours or until very firm.

4. Place the coating mixture in a bowl.

Roll each truffle in the coating to form a knobby little ball. Place in mini muffin or candy cups. Cover and refrigerate until needed. Refrigerated, they will keep a week or two. They can also be frozen for several weeks’ storage. If you do refrigerate or freeze, the truffles may need another quick roll through the cocoa mixture.

Makes about 30 truffles.

Champagne Truffles

6 oz. dried apricots, minced 1 cup dry champagne or white wine 4 TB. (½ stick) unsalted butter, softened 1 ½ c. sifted powdered sugar 1 pound Chocolate coating (Dolci di Frutta is the preferred brand) 1. Cut each apricot into ½ inch pieces.

Place them in a bowl or jar and cover with 48 | ColumbiaLivingMag.com

the champagne. Marinate the apricots, covered, in the refrigerator for about an hour; the apricots should remain firm.

2. Drain well, reserving 2 TB. of the marinade. Pat the apricots thoroughly dry.

3. Beat the butter in a bowl til thick and fluffy. Gradually beat in the sugar, then the reserved marinade. The mixture should be very smooth and creamy, about 5 minutes.

4. Gently fold the apricots into the buttercream.

5. Transfer the mixture to a small bowl, cover with foil and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to ripen and harden.

6. Working with just a small amount of the buttercream mixture at a time, form irregularly shaped balls about 1 inch in diameter. Work with just the tips of your fingers to keep the mixture from becoming soft. Place the truffles on a baking sheet in the freezer, covered loosely overnight.

7. Working with only 4 or 5 truffles at a time (the mixture goes soft very quickly), and keeping the rest of the mixture refrigerated, coat the truffles with warm chocolate coating. When all the truffles are coated, refrigerate them for about an hour on the foil or parchment covered baking sheet. When all truffles have hardened somewhat, place in a tin or box that can hold all the truffles in one layer.

Place each truffle in a paper candy or muffin cup. Refrigerate or freeze. Makes 24 truffles.

Lure Of The Wild

The thrill of the hunt during the holidays has been a Midlands tradition for generations WRITTEN BY KATHERINE PETTIT

I

know a secret. I’d suspected it for some time, but after talking with Midlands folks about late Fall fishing and bird hunting, it was confirmed. Outdoor sports enthusiasts are more about getting outside than catching the big one. Formerly the exclusive domain of the male, women have now learned that spending several hours outside, observing magnificent sunrises, or watching a doe and a fawn drink at water’s edge, is infinitely preferable to say, cleaning the closets or straightening out the tool shed.

It’s A Great Time To Go Fishing

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY SCDNR

Talk to a fishing guide like Captain Chris Heinning, and you’ll discover that he and his clients feel the same way. “Fall can actually be the best time of year to fish on Lake Murray and Lake Wateree,” he confides. “Just like wildlife, in fall, the fish are stocking up on food to carry them through the Winter.”

In November and December, predator fish such as largemouth and

(top) Catch of the day for these two is large mouth bass. (above) A tranquil moment of fishing on Lake Murray.

striped bass feed aggressively and very often. Capt. Heinning recommends a topwater lure, explaining the exhilaration one feels when being able to see almost the entire fish catch from initial strike to successful landing in the net.

He also suggests taking a camera because the fall foliage is still spectacular and the migratory birds are moving south.

After 27 years in the Air Force, this outdoorsman followed his heart into the fishing guide business. “I fished from a very young age with my father and grandfather and there’s nothing like a day on the water,” he says. As for his clients, they come from all over, anxious for a day away from pressures. Recently, after several hours on the water, one client told him how wonderful it was to “get unplugged for a while.” Next month, a couple from Kentucky is traveling to the Midlands to spend a week fishing on Lake Murray.

Does he eat a lot of fish? Not really, he smiles. “I like to catch and release and give others the chance to catch them on

their trip. It’s the thrill of it all, and being outdoors that makes fishing so wonderful, as well as teaching folks the skills to enjoy fishing for a lifetime.”

Thinking of trying your hand at fishing? South Carolina’s Department of Natural Resources stocks rainbow and brown trout into the Lower Saluda River near Columbia. There are lots of entry points to the river, and if anglers practice catch-and-release fishing, especially during the winter and early spring, the fish can reach trophy size. And it’s pretty.

The 10-mile segment of the Saluda River beginning one mile below Lake Murray Dam is designated as a State Scenic River.

Saluda Shoals Park is a popular way to access the water, and enjoy nature. Visit and you’ll understand.

Bird Hunting Traditions Run Deep For generations, Midlands families have gone dove hunting together.

According to Billy Dukes, SCDNR Small November/ December 2011 | 49

(left) Large mouth bass caught during the Lake Murray fishing tournament. (below) With their dogs at the ready, these hunters are about to bag some birds with this text book wing-shooting setup.

Game Project Supervisor, the southern dove hunt, much like SC football, is a social event. “Families will plan dove hunts and invite close friends to join them,” he explains. “Often, there’s a meal associated with the event, either before or after the hunt. It may be barbecue, chicken bog, or maybe dove, but it’s a strong tradition for many folks.” Dove hunting is characterized by an abundance of game and a lot of shooting (much of which can be the topic of conversation after the hunt).

50 | ColumbiaLivingMag.com

Because a group hunts together to cover ground within the field, it’s a great way to get outside with buddies (or the next generation), and spend time away from work.

Quail (also known as Bobwhites for their distinctive call) has long been considered the game bird of the south, and in the past, the quail population in South Carolina made it a fertile hunting ground for the small birds. Hunting them takes a different kind of effort, according

to Dukes. “Quail hunting is a solitary or small group activity – two or three hunters,” he said. “It’s as much about watching the dog work as it is about the quail.” Brittany spaniels are popular, as are English pointers, English setters, and German short-haired pointers. In fact, a variety of dogs have been bred to point quail and every hunter has a favorite breed.

And what about duck hunting? It has elements of both solitary and small group hunting done on public lands, says Dukes. “It’s a great family experience,” explains Kent Parsons of Barron’s Outfitters. “Three generations can enjoy going out together and for me, during the holidays, I would get up with my dad and go hunting. We’d walk and hunt and get back and cleaned up before Mom had the turkey or ham on the table.” Parsons considers it a rite of passage and one he hopes to continue. “It gets us out of the house and gives us a reason to meet up with friends and family,” he says. And one

FAQs The DNR Website has great information for outdoor enthusiasts – with or without a gun – www.dnr.sc.gov.

Nearby Dove Fields Include:

» Hallman Field, near Leesville » McCullough Field in the Sumter National Forest » Manchester State Forest, near Sumter » Find a statewide list of dove fields at www.dnr.sc.gov/wildlife/dove/fields.html.

December 3, 2011 is State Youth Day. Only hunters 17 years of age or younger may hunt waterfowl (ducks and geese) on this day. Youths must be accompanied by an adult at least 21 years old. Rules apply.

“I’m Betting on Bob” From Tales of Quails ‘n Such A Collection of Hunting and Fishing Stories

By Havilah Babcock

(top) Male and female quail – to tell them apart, white around the face signifies a male. (above) A hunter with his Brittany Spaniel hones in on a quail (seen in foreground).

more thing. “Without a doubt, the hunters I know are avid conservationists.

We care about protecting the outdoors.”

At Barron’s, new technology in the clothing industry has made a difference in the comfort level of those outside experiences. “It’s not just wool and cotton anymore, Parsons explains. “New materials wick moisture away from the skin and offer more wind and water protection.

Clothing makes hunting these days a much more pleasurable experience.”

The English Setter is a popular breed for pointing quail.

You don’t have to be a good shot to get quail. Expert marksmanship is really not necessary. A man can become a good quail shot without becoming a good marksman if he does the thing right – if he will add an ounce of brains to the ounce of shot in his gun.

Long ago I recognized the fact that I would never become a really good shot.

My vision is not what it might be. I lack the coordination and nerveless composure that a top-notcher must have. And I have too much imagination, I reckon, ever to become very good.

How, I said, can a fellow who is only a fair-to-middling shot become a good game-getter? Well, I decided, by taking thought. I didn’t add one cubit to my stature by so doing, but I did add birds to my bag. I made myself something of a game strategist. Since I’ve admitted I’m only a fair shot, maybe you’ll forgive me for calling myself a strategist. Got to have one leg to stand on, you know.

As a result of my thought-taking, I have become a better-than-fair gamegetter. In fact, I often outshoot better shots, and bag more birds than hunting companions who are crack marksmen.

Quail hunting is the hardest sort of wing-shooting if you do it wrong; one of the easiest if you do it right. As I have often said, it is like golf: fun that people make work out of, an easy game that people make hard. And the secret of quail shooting – the sum and substance of the bird hunter’s strategy – is figuring with Bob instead of against him.

Quail hunters are hard on themselves. Many of the hard shots they get are of their own making. They really are. Due more to the dumbness of the shooter than the smartness of the shootee. The unwary gunner invites trouble by putting himself at a disadvantage and giving the breaks to Bob, a fidgety fellow who doesn’t need them, thank you. Too many hunters do their thinking after the covey gets up.

“What do you think about that,” I asked a young fellow, “when you walk into a point?”

“Think hell!” he laughed. “It’s too late to think. I’m just hopin’andprayin’.”

“Do a little thinkin’ before you step into ‘em, and you won’t have to do so much prayin’ later,” added an old-timer.

And that’s gospel.

Reprinted with the permission of the University of South Carolina Press.

The late Havilah Babcock was for many years head of the English Department of the University of South Carolina. The rest of this story, as well as 26 more, are found in this memorable collection, available at local bookstores and through the University of South Carolina Press.

November/ December 2011 | 51

52 | ColumbiaLivingMag.com

Food & Wine Dining Out » Restaurant Guide

DINING OUT » Ristorante

B

Divino

orn in Lago di Como, a small city near Milan, Italy, Fulvio Valsecchi came to the United States in September 1969. He lived and worked in Hilton Head for 20 years before coming to Columbia. “I came here by accident,” he says.

“I had a friend who used to own Columbia’s Restaurant underneath the AT&T building (then located at Assembly & Gervais),” Fulvio said.

“D’Ann and I were planning to move to Washington, D.C. I stopped by to see friends. And he asked me to help out for a few days during the holidays because he had lost his chef.”

Then the son of a friend of Fulvio’s found a good location for a restaurant on Devine Street. The former home of the French restaurant, La Petit Chateau, the site proved just what Fulvio wanted for a new home for an Italian restaurant he opened with his wife D’Ann, and named Ristorante Divino.

Continued on page 54 »

Osso Buco Milanese: braised pork shank served with risotto and vegetables.

November/ December 2011 | 53

Dining Out After 4 1/2 years on Devine Street, the couple moved the restaurant to its current home on Gervais Street in Columbia’s hip Vista neighborhood. In November, Divino will celebrate its 15th year at this location.

Designed by Buddy McDowell, Ristorante Divino is tucked away behind an appealing brick façade with a simple, softly lit entrance reminiscent of Italy itself. Inside the 76-seat dining room and 18-seat lounge offer quiet respite from many of the Vista’s newer and louder eating establishments. Here, for example, cell phones are not allowed in the dining room. There is no lunch rush because lunch is not served; only dinner Monday through Saturday.

This is the kind of restaurant where the seafood, or Frutti del Mare in Italian, is fresh every day. Specialties include scallops, mussels, calamari, fish and shrimp in a tomato-garlic saffron broth served over linguini and black-and-white sesame seared tuna over whipped potatoes with a cabernet wine sauce.

Other featured entrees – which range in price from about $25 to $33 – include medallions of veal with procini cream sauce with capellini olive oil and garlic; grilled breast of duck on seasoned spinach and roasted stuffed double rack of pork. Desserts are homemade with Fulvio, who is also Ristorante Divono’s head chef, creating his own gelato, sorbet, tiramisu and crème brulee, among other tempting sweets.

A quite moment before the dinner rush for chef Fulvio Valsecchi with his daughter Alexandra.

54 | ColumbiaLivingMag.com

A 400-choice wine list completes the restaurant’s ample selections with wine prices beginning at $28 per bottle and going up from there.

Over the past 15 years the restaurant’s reputation for excellent food

a diner in November 2011 on Columbia’s Fort Jackson Blvd. He’s been eyeing a piece of property in that area for a long time. D’Ann laughs when Fulvio talks about retiring saying he’d spend his time playing golf and hunting. “He hates to be

“I really love the restaurant business. A restaurant like this, it chooses who you are. You don’t choose the restaurant.” – Fulvio Valsecchi and friendly service spread by word of mouth. Each evening, D’Ann greets guests at each table, checking to ensure the restaurant lives up to expectations. “We like what we do,” she says. “We really care that our customers have a good experience.

When people leave here, we want them saying, ‘That was great. Let’s come back next month.’ “ Born in New York and brought up in Amherst, Mass., she and Fulvio met at Hilton Head where she was selling ice cream. They’ve now been married 25 years.

Fulvio actually grew up in the restaurant business. His father owned a trattoria – or an Italian dining establishment that is less formal than a ristorante but more formal than some other types of Italian eateries – in his hometown in Italy. His father also operated a supermarket and a hotel. Fulvio worked in all three along with his brother, his two sisters and his mother.

His current plans call for opening

idle,” she says, predicting that her husband may never retire and that he loves running Ristorante Divino.

“Here I’m the chef, and Mike Deevey is my assistant chef or sous chef,” Fulvio says. “I really love the restaurant business. Running a restaurant – if you don’t love it, you’re never going to make it.

A restaurant like this, it chooses who you are. You don’t choose the restaurant.”

– Cecile S. Holmes

Ristorante Divino

803 Gervais Street, Columbia (803) 799-4550 www.ristorantedivino.com Dinner Mon-Sat, 6pm-until

Restaurant

Guide Locations: (D) Downtown; (DS) Devine Street; (F) Five Points; (FA) Forest Acres; (I) Irmo; (L) Lexington; (N) Northeast; (R) Rosewood; (V ) Vista Area; (W ) West Columbia M Café (D) 1417 Sumter St., 779-5788.

Fresh Asian cuisine and Mandarin tea room.

Lunch and Dinner, Mon-Fri 11am-10pm, Sat 5-10pm.

Ready to Eat?

Use our restaurant listings to find the best eating and drinking in Columbia.

American

Cellar on Greene (F) 2001 Greene St., 343-3303.

Unique combination of wine shop by day and wine bar by night. Offering 3 course meals with steak, seafood or duck as well as pizza and desserts.

Dinner, Tue-Thurs 5-10pm, Fri-Sat 5-11pm.

City Center Grill (D) 1200 Hampton St. (in the Columbia Marriott), 744-6940. Traditional American favorites with regional fare. Breakfast, Mon-Fri 6:30-10:30am, Sat-Sun 6:30-12, Lunch daily,11:30am-2pm, Dinner, Mon-Sat 5-10pm.

Five Guys Famous Burgers & Fries (D) 931 Senate St., 799-0441; (FA) 4751 Forest Dr., 787-3178; (I) 285 Columbiana Dr., 407-6443; (N) 460-2 Town Center Place, 788-6200.

Hamburgers, with an array of other options available. Daily 11am-10pm.

Harper’s Restaurant (F) 700 Harden St., 252-2222. Enjoy casual dining with an array of American cuisine, including steak, chicken, seafood, BBQ, burgers and salads. Lunch and Dinner, Mon-Thurs 11:15am-10pm, Fri-Sat 11:15am-11pm, Sun 10:30am-10pm.

Hunter-Gatherer Brewery & Ale House (D) 900 Main St., 748-0540. English-style brew pub with a variety of fresh homemade dishes. Brewhouse serving continental fare and regional favorites. Handcrafted beer made in-house. Lunch, Tue-Fri 11am-2pm, Dinner, Mon-Sat 4-11pm.

Liberty Tap Room & Grill (V) 828 Gervais St., 461-4677. Handcrafted brew-pub with rich ethnic cooking styles serving seafood, steak, chicken, burgers, soups and salads.

Mon-Sat 11am-until, Sun 10am-until, Sun Brunch 10am-3pm.

Solstice Kitchen & Wine Bar (N) 841-4 Sparkleberry Ln., 788-6966. New American grill with extensive wine list. Serving seafood, pork, chicken, salads. Lunch Tue-Fri 11:30am2pm, Dinner, Mon-Thurs5:30-9:30pm, Fri-Sat 5:30-10:30pm.

Tombo Grille (FA) 4509 Forest Dr., 782-9665.

Forest Acres hotspot serving incredible food, wines, and high-gravity beer. Dinner MonThurs 5:30-9:30pm, Fri-Sat 5:30-10:30pm.

Yesterday’s (F) 2030 Devine St., 799-0196.

Relaxed family atmosphere serving up regional dishes made fresh daily. Menu items include beef stew, BBQ, lasagna and chicken. Lunch and Dinner, Sun-Thurs 11:30am-midnight, Fri-Sat 11:30-1am.

Asian

Baan Sawan Thai Bistro (DS) 2135 Devine St., 252-8992. Quaint bistro offering traditional Thai dishes with seafood, chicken and beef.

Choose from a variety of Curry flavors. Dinner Tue-Thurs 5:30-9pm, Fri 5:30-10pm, Sat 5:309pm. Take out is available.

Miyo’s (D) 922 S Main St., 779-6496; (FA) 3250 Forest Dr., 743-9996; (I) 1221 Bower Pkwy., 781-7788; (N) 715 Fashion Dr., 7888878; (V) 701 Lady St., 255-8878. Unique Asian flared foods, sushi, fine teas and specialty entrees. Hours vary by location.

SakiTumi Grill & Sushi Bar (V) 807 Gervais St., 931-0700. Serving up award winning sushi with fresh ahi tuna. Grill menu includes steak, chicken and beef. Dinner, Mon-Wed 4:3010pm, Thurs-Sat 4:30pm-midnight.

Thai Lotus Restaurant (I) 612 St. Andrews Rd., 561-0006. Lunch and Dinner Daily, 1110pm, Lunch Buffett11am-2pm.

Bakery

Tiffany’s Bakery & Eatery (N) 8502 Two Notch Rd., 736-2253. Full service delicatessen and custom bakery. Specialty is wedding cakes.

Mon-Fri 7am-6pm, Sat 8am-3pm.

BBQ

Hudson’s Smokehouse (I) 301 Park Terrace Dr., 661-7533; (L) 4952 Sunset Blvd., 3561070. Voted some of the best BBQ in all of Columbia, offering full menu or Southern buffet with all the sides. Lunch and Dinner Mon-Thurs 11am-9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-10pm, Sun 11am-3pm.

Deli/Café

DiPrato’s (F) 342 Pickens St., 779-0606. New York style delicatessen serving Mediterranean and Italian cuisine with signature sandwiches, soups and salads. Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Sat brunch 10am-1pm, Sun brunch 10am-4pm.

The Gourmet Shop (F) 724 Saluda Ave., 7993705. A local favorite, serving homemade sandwiches, soups, salads, and desserts. Menu items include turkey pesto, reuben, chicken salad, and smoked salmon. Mon-Fri 9am3:45pm, Sat 9am-4:45pm, Sun 10am-3:45pm.

Area restaurants provide this information to Columbia LIVING magazine. It is published according to space availability. No advertising or other considerations are accepted in exchange for a listing. To participate in our restaurant guide, call 843-856-2532.

November/ December 2011 | 55

Restaurant Guide Grouchoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Deli (F) 611 Harden St., 7995708; (N) 111 Sparkleberry Ln., 419-6767; 730 University Village Dr., 754-4509; (I) 800 Lake Murray Blvd., 749-4515; 2009 Broad River Rd., 750-3188; (FA) 4717 Forest Dr., 790-0801; (L) 117 ½ E. Main St., 356-8800.

A local favorite featuring made-to-order sandwiches, low-fat options, soups and salads.

Lunch and Dinner. Hours vary by location.

Rosewood Market and Deli (R) 2803 Rosewood Dr., 256-6410. Wide variety of menu selections such as coconut shrimp, gumbo,

pasta, soups and salads. Low carb healthy dishes available. Lunch Mon-Sat 11:30am-2:30pm, Sun 10am-2pm, Dinner Mon-Sat 5-7:30pm.

Dessert

CafĂŠ Strudel (W) 118 State St., 794-6634.

European style cafĂŠ serving an array of sandwiches, soups, salads, and burgers. Breakfast and Lunch Mon-Wed 8:30am-3:30pm, ThursSat 8:30am-10:30pm, Sun 10am-2:30pm.

Nonnahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (V) 930 Gervais St., 779-9599.

Offering a lite lunch and dinner menu, with

Love at First Bite Â&#x2018;Â&#x201D; ƤÂ?Â&#x2021; Â&#x2020;Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2030; Â&#x2039;Â? Â&#x2018;Â&#x17D;Â&#x2014;Â?Â&#x201E;Â&#x2039;Â&#x192;ÇĄ Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2013; Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2019;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2018;Â? Â&#x2013;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2013; Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2021;Â&#x203A;Â&#x192;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2020; Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2018;Â&#x201D; Â&#x192; Â&#x2022;Â&#x2021;Â&#x192;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2018;Â?Â&#x192;Â&#x17D;Â&#x17D;Â&#x203A; Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2022;Â&#x2019;Â&#x2039;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2020; Â?Â&#x2021;Â?Â&#x2014; Â&#x2122;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2013;Â&#x160; Â&#x2026;Â&#x2014;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2021; Â&#x2039;Â?ĆŞÂ&#x2014;Â&#x2021;Â?Â&#x2026;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2022; Â&#x2013;Â&#x160;Â&#x192;Â&#x2013; Â&#x192;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2021; Â&#x2014;Â?Â&#x201D;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2013;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2026;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2020; Â&#x201E;Â&#x203A; Â&#x2021;Â&#x2013;Â&#x160;Â?Â&#x2039;Â&#x2026; Â&#x201E;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2014;Â?Â&#x2020;Â&#x192;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2022;Ǥ Â&#x2018;Â&#x2026;Â&#x192;Â&#x17D;Â&#x17D;Â&#x203A; Â&#x2022;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2014;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2026;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2020; Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2020;ÇĄ Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2020; Â&#x192; Â&#x2022;Â&#x2014;Â&#x2019;Â&#x2021;Â&#x201D;Â&#x201E; 8ď&#x20AC;¸ Â&#x2022;Â&#x2021;Â&#x17D;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2026;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2018;Â? Â&#x2018;Â&#x2C6; Â&#x2122;Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2021;Ǥ Wine Spectator Award Winner for â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Best of Award of Excellenceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; since 1997.

some of the best desserts in Columbia. Relaxed, yet upscale atmosphere wonderfully decorated with original artwork from local artists. Lunch Mon-Fri 11:30am-2pm; Dinner Mon-Thurs 5-11pm, Fri-Sat 5pm-12:30am.

Fine Dining

Alâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Upstairs (W) 300 Meeting St., 7947404. Romantic and elegant Italian restaurant overlooking the Columbia skyline. Entrees include fresh fish, steaks, chops, pasta and lamb.

Dinner, Mon-Sat 5-10pm.

Arizonaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (N) 150 Forum Dr., 865-1001.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner daily, SunMon11:30am-9pm, Tue-Thurs 11:30am-10pm, Fri-Sat 11:30am-11pm.

Columboâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (D) 2100 Bush River Rd. (in the Radisson Hotel), 744-2200. Unique Italian cuisine, prime steaks and a superior wine list served up in a casual intimate atmosphere.

Breakfast daily, 6:30-11am, Lunch and Dinner daily 11am-midnight.

Hours Mon-Fri: Lunch 11:30-2:00, Dinner 6:00-10:00 Sat: Dinner only 6:00-10:00

Dianneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on Devine (DS) 2400 Devine St., 254-3535. Italian influenced cuisine, serving seafood, veal, chicken, pasta, soups and appetizers. Dinner Mon 5-9pm, Tue-Sat 5-10pm.

Garibaldiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (F) 2013 Greene St., 771-8888.

Sophisticated neighborhood cafĂŠ with an art deco bar, serving classic Italian fare and delectable seafood.

Dinner, Mon-Thurs 5-10:30pm, Fri-Sat 5-11pm, Sun 5-10pm.

Hampton Street Vineyard (D) 1201 Hampton St., 252-0850. Offering an array of cuisines with seafood, pastas, beef and chicken. Menu changes quarterly. Lunch Mon-Fri 11:30am2pm, Dinner Mon-Sat 6-10pm.

Í&#x2122;Í&#x161;Í&#x2DC;Í&#x2122; Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2019;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2018;Â? Â&#x2013;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2013;ÇĄ Â&#x2018;Â&#x17D;Â&#x2014;Â?Â&#x201E;Â&#x2039;Â&#x192; Í Í&#x2DC;Í&#x203A;ǤÍ&#x161;Í?Í&#x161;ǤÍ&#x2DC;Í Í?Í&#x2DC; www.hamptonstreetvineyard.com

Helping the Midlands plan their most memorable events since 1999

www.palmettopartyrental.com

56 Â Â Â | Â Â Â ColumbiaLivingMag.com

1104 Atlas Road, Columbia SC 29209 (803) 794-­0010

Hennessyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (D) 1649 Main St., 799-8280. One of Columbiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s landmark restaurants offering elegant dining in a casual atmosphere. Lunch Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm, Dinner Mon-Thurs 6-9pm, Fri-Sat 6-9:30pm.

Lexington Arms (L) 314 West Main St., 3592700. Serving a wide variety of foods including lamb, beef stroganoff, sandwiches, salads and desserts. Dinner, Mon-Thurs 5:30-9pm, Fri-Sat 5:30-10pm.

Momoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bistro (DS) 2930 Devine St., 2522700. Fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere.

Choose from seafood, steak, pork, chicken, lamb and salads. Dinner Mon-Thurs 5:30-10pm, Fri 5:30-11pm, Sat 5:30-10pm, Sun Brunch 10:302:30pm.

GRAND OPENING IN NOVEMBER!

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Fresh Mexican Food Fast.

Where customers can watch a delicious made-to-order meal prepared right in front of their eyes.

916 Gervais Street, Columbia

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The ultimate self serve frozen yogurt featuring an array of HIPMGMSYW ¾EZSVW and toppings.

Come in today for an authentic treat.

Stop in today for fresh, oven-hot cinnamon rolls and other tasty baked goods.

529 Bush River Road Columbia 803-798-1775

November/ December 2011 | 57

Ristorante Divino

Restaurant Guide Motor Supply Bistro (V) 920 Gervais St., 256-6687. Serving up innovative food with a menu that changes twice daily. Lunch, TueSat 11:30am-2:30pm, Sun Brunch 11am-3pm, Dinner, Tue-Thurs 5:30-9:30pm, Fri-Sat 5:3010:30pm, Sun 5:30-9pm.

P.O.S.H. (D) 1400 Main St. (in the Sheraton Hotel), 988-1400. Breakfast only, Mon-Fri 6:30-10:30am, Sat-Sun 6:30-11am.

Ristorante Divino (V) 803 Gervais St., 7994550. Authentic Northern Italian cuisine, serving homemade pastas, seafood, duck and beef. Reservations suggested. Dinner, Mon-Sat 6pm-until.

Terra (W) 100 State St., 791-3443. Great neighborhood restaurant serving wood-oven pizzas, quail, red drum, steaks and salads.

Dinner, Tue-Sat 5pm-until.

Refreshingly Elegant Fine Northern Italian Cuisine

Pastas ~ Gnocchi ~ Risotto ~ Veal ~ Seafood ~ Daily Seasonal Specials Wine Spectator Award Winners every year from 2002-2010 Serving Dinner Mon - Sat Starting at 6pm

Reservations Suggested

803 Gervais Street - 803.799.4550

Signature sandwiches, salads, and soups.

A true New York-style delicatessen.

Hours

Monday – Saturday 10-6pm Sunday 10-4pm

Brunch

Saturday and Sunday 10-2pm

Greek

Grecian Gardens (W) 2312 Sunset Blvd., 794-7552. Authentic Greek cuisine including an excellent wine list. Menu selections include chicken, seafood, steaks, Greek pizza, salads and sandwiches. Lunch and Dinner, Mon-Thurs 11am-9pm, Fri 11am-10pm, Sat-Sun 11am-9pm.

Italian

Moe’s Grapevine (R) 4478 Rosewood Dr., 7768463. Casual and personal dining experience with an Italian flare. Lunch, Tue-Fri 11am2:30pm, Dinner Tue 5-9pm, Wed-Sat 5-10pm.

Rosso Trattoria Italia (FA) 4840 Forest Dr., 787-3949. Elegant casual Italian food fare serving up local, seasonal products, Menu boasts an array of pastas, grilled meats, steaks, and excellent wine list. Dinner, Mon-Thurs 5-10pm, Fri-Sat 5-11pm.

Travinia Italian Kitchen (L) 5074 Sunset Blvd., 957-2422; (N) 101 Sparkleberry Crossing Rd., 419-9313. Contemporary Italian cuisine serving fresh pasta, soups, chicken, pizza, veal and seafood. Lunch and Dinner Mon-Thurs 11:30am-10pm, Fri-Sat 11:30am-11pm, Sun 12-9pm.

Villa Tronco (D) 1213 Blanding St., 2567677. Enjoy casual fine dining in Columbia’s oldest Italian restaurant. Old world charm with authentic recipes. Lunch, Mon-Fri 11:00am2pm, Dinner Mon-Sat 5-9pm.

342 Pickens Street O www.dipratos.com O 803.779.0606 58 | ColumbiaLivingMag.com

Japanese

Camon Japanese Restaurant (D) 1332 Assembly St., 254-5400. Hibachi-style cooking

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www.bluemarlincolumbia.com

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1200 Lincoln St.

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www.signaturecateringsc.com

Restaurant Guide with seafood, steak and chicken. Dinner, MonSat 5-9:30pm.

Sakura Japanese Restaurant (FA) 4827 Forest Dr., 738-9330. A local favorite serving up an array of tasty seafood and sushi dishes prepared fresh daily. Lunch, Mon-Sat 11:30am-2pm, Dinner Mon-Thurs 5:30-9:30pm, Fri-Sat 5:3010pm.

Sato Japanese Steak & Seafood (FA) 1999 Beltline Blvd., 782-1064. Authentic Japanese cuisine prepared at your table with the finest chefs. Dinners include appetizer, soup, and salad. Choose from steak, chicken or seafood.

Lunch Tue-Fri 11am-3pm, Dinner 4:30-10pm daily.

Mediterranean

Al-Amir (I) 7001 St. Andrews Rd., 732-0522.

Lunch, Mon-Fri 11:30am-3pm, Dinner MonFri 5:30-9:30pm, Sat-Sun 11:30-9:30.

Gervais & Vine (V) 620-A Gervais St., 7998463. Spanish-styled Mediterranean wine and tapas bar offering a wide selection of beers, outside seating and a menu with culinary influences from across the Med. Dinner, MonThurs 5-10pm, Fri-Sat 5-11pm.

Seafood

Blue Fin (N) 461-4 Town Center Place, 8657346. An upscale yet casual atmosphere with a full bar. Dishes include seafood, pasta, chicken, soups and salads. Lunch daily 11am-2:45pm, Dinner Mon-Thurs 3-10pm, Fri-Sat 3-11pm, Sun 3-9:30pm.

Blue Marlin (V) 1200 Lincoln St., 799-3838.

Serving dishes with a Cajun and Creole influence.

Menu includes seafood, steaks and chicken.

Lunch, Mon-Fri 11:30-2:30, Dinner Mon-Fri 5:30-10pm, Sat-Sun 11:30am-11pm.

Bonefish Grill (FA) 4708 Forest Dr., 787-6200; (I) 1260 Bower Pkwy., 407-1599. Great seafood dishes prepared on a wood-burning grill, all within a relaxed casual atmosphere. Dinner Mon-Thurs 4-10:30pm, Fri-Sat 4-11:30pm, Sun 4-10pm.

Catch 22 (I) 1085 Lake Murray Blvd., 749-4700.

A fine-dining seafood restaurant with an array of seafood dishes, steak, chicken, sandwiches, soups and salads. Kids menu available. Dinner TueThurs 5-10pm, Fri-Sat 5-11pm.

The Oyster Bar (V) 1123 Park St., 799-4484.

Columbia’s original oyster bar, serving the freshest Gulf oysters, steamed or raw, soups, and shrimp and grits. Mon-Sat 4-until.

Pearlz Oyster Bar (V) 936 Gervais St., 6617741. Fun, eclectic restaurant serving the freshest seafood in a casual dining atmosphere. Daily 4pm-until.

Southern

Mint Julep Bistro & Lounge (N) 120 Sparkleberry Crossing Dr., 419-7200.

Mediterranean style “small-plate” dining with traditional Southern ingredients. Selections include shrimp & grits, gumbo, BBQ, chicken dishes, soups and salads. Full wine and liquor bar.

Dinner Mon-Thurs 4-10pm, Fri-Sat 4-11pm.

Mr. Friendly’s (F) 2001 Greene St., 254-7828.

Serving new Southern cuisine including seafood, chicken, beef and wild game. Sophisticated and casual atmosphere, extensive wine list and a wide variety of micro-brew beer. Lunch Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm, Dinner Mon-Thurs 5:3010pm, Fri-Sat 5:30-10:30pm.

Steaks and Seafood

Ruth’s Chris Steak House (D) 924-A Senate St. (in the Hilton Hotel), 212-6666. U.S.D.A. prime beef, chops, chicken and fresh seafood.

Reservations recommended. Breakfast daily 7-10:30am, Lunch daily 11am-3pm, Dinner SunThurs 3-10pm, Fri-Sat 3-11pm.

November/ December 2011 | 59

Travel

Bermuda High

We’ve got the perfect hot spot for those dreaming of a sandy beach for the holidays TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE MCELVEEN

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awn-pink beaches, shimmering lagoons in every shade of blue imaginable, dramatic rock formations…paradise? Bermuda actually, where just 650 miles from North Carolina’s Outer Banks, the Atlantic is doing a spoton impression of the Caribbean.

Five hundred years ago, uninhabited Bermuda was little more than a navigation point for ships sailing from Europe to the New World and beyond. That all changed in 1609 when a storm blew Royal Navy Admiral George Somerset’s ship off course and onto Bermuda. Realizing he’d stumbled onto a gem, Somerset claimed those gorgeous pastel pink beaches for England.

Today, the tiny isle is still loyal to the crown, and tourists come from all over the world to golf (there are more courses here per square mile than anywhere else in the world), scuba dive or just relax and enjoy the island’s unique blend of lively West Indian flair and genteel colonial charm.

Adirondack chairs await their guests overlooking the harbor at the Fairmont Hamilton Princess.

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The view of Bermuda looking down from the Scaur Hill Fort.

History buffs should start their vacation with a visit to Royal Naval Dockyard, a 19th-century fort that’s been transformed into a 21st-century entertainment center filled with worththe-trip activities. A highlight is the Commissioner’s House, which was built in 1822 and houses several permanent exhibits detailing Bermuda’s history.

Throughout the museum, hundreds of artifacts tell Bermuda’s story, from the grim implements of slavery—which was outlawed in 1834—to everyday household tools of the era. There’s also a fun display of tourist promotions and advertisements, detailed ship models and a two-story mural

by Bermudian artist Graham Forster that depicts three hundred years of life on the island in vibrant color. The bastions, ramparts and other areas of the fort are also open for discovery. Royal Naval Dockyard includes more modern pursuits

as well, including dozens of shops, a craft market offering the work of 60 artisans, a separate arts center and pottery works, a glassblowing studio, restaurants, the Bermuda Rum Cake Bakery and a snorkel park.

Small islands usually confine walkers and joggers to the treadmill but that’s not the case in Bermuda. The 18mile Railway Trail winds from one end of the island to the other, offering a chance to explore the surprisingly varied terrain and take in parts of the island usually off-limits to visitors. In Warwick Parish, the trail skirts Sherwin Nature Reserve and passes through groves of allspice trees; take Tribe Road 7 for a beautiful walk to the beach.

The Southampton section of the trail will take you past a number of traditional Bermuda homes as well as Gibbs’ Hill Lighthouse, which was built in 1846 and constructed entirely from cast iron. Climb

the 185 steps to the top and you’ll be rewarded with a view of nearly the entire island. There’s also a café and gift shop, where you can call a taxi if you need a ride back to town.

One of the prettiest parts of the trail begins at Somerset Bridge, said to be the world’s smallest drawbridge, and ends at the trailhead in Somerset Village. Perched on a hillside, Somerset’s Heydon Trust Church dates from 1616 and has just three pews; Scaur Hill Fort looks down on the Great Sound, and hides a secret: built in the Prussian style, it’s virtually invisible from the water. Along the way, you’ll be able to take in stunning views of the Great Sound and stroll through Springfield, an 18th-century mansion, and the Gilbert Nature Reserve, home to one of the island’s largest stands of mature Bermuda Cedar trees. There are plenty of watery diversions as well: dozens of public beaches that rim the island—the giant rock formations are stunning and, in many cases, have created calm, shallow beaches like Tobacco Bay. Even better, those rocky coves have created literally hundreds of miniscule beaches that, once discovered, you can call your own, at least for an afternoon. Snorkelers take note: the coral reefs that surround Bermuda are like catnip for neon-hued tropical fish, so even beginners can get an eyeful. Non-swimmers can take in the colorful show at Bermuda Aquarium’s 140,000 gallon coral reef exhibit.

Although zooming around the island on scooters is a blast, for less than $5.00, you can save time, money and avoid helmet hair by taking one of the passenger ferries that runs between the tourist destinations on the eastern and western tips of the island and the capital city of Hamilton—where you’ll find traditional English pubs, lots of restaurants and great shopping in designer boutiques and dutyfree shops. Hamilton is also the home

(top) Scooters line the street and are a popular transportation mode. (above) The Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse.

A top down view of the capital city Hamilton.

of the elegant 126-year-old Fairmont Hamilton Princess, where English tea, served in dainty bone-china cups under a portrait of the queen, is a local tradition.

Rooms in the main building overlook a courtyard open to the harbor and have easy access to dining and a fresh water pool; book one of the older rooms, and you’ll be closer to a salt-water pool that’s surrounded by a grassy lawn dotted with pastel-hued Adirondack chairs. The hotel provides guests with access (and free round-trip transport) to the private beach fronting the Fairmont Southampton November/ December 2011 | 61

Princess. (Southampton Princess guests can use the service to explore Hamilton without shelling out for a taxi).

The Grande Dame of the island’s resorts, the Southampton Princess presides over nearly 100 beautifully manicured acres and offers direct access to a crescent-shaped beach complete with a coral reef that’s great for snorkeling, one of the island’s top golf courses in the Fairmont Southampton Golf Club and the Railroad Trail. If the resort’s size seems overwhelming—there are 539 rooms and seven restaurants—consider upgrading to the Gold Level, where you’ll find a private bar, a dedicated concierge and freebies like breakfast, afternoon tea and pre-dinner snacks.

Used to be, the best food in Bermuda was the spicy fish chowder that’s been a Bermuda tradition for centuries.

And while the chowder is delectable— particularly the version served at the Frog and the Onion at Dockyard—today, it’s easy to eat well in Bermuda, even if you don’t like fish chowder. Tucked into tiny Jews Bay at the south end of the Great Sound, Waterlot Inn delivers glorious sunsets each night along with perfectlyprepared old-school favorites like gigantic

(top) Spectacular views from the Leydon Church overlook. (right) Luxury on the beach is just one of the many perks when staying at the Southampton Princess.

steaks, potatoes au gratin, Caesar salad and bananas Foster. Sandwiches and salads top the menu at the Swizzle Inn, but that’s not why you’re here anyway: the pub’s rum swizzle, which runs neck-and-neck with the dark and stormy as Bermuda’s signature drink, is delicious. For dinner with an ocean view, head to the Elbow Beach resort, where Lido serves pasta and Mediterranean fare just steps from the water or to the treehouse-styled Coconuts in the family-owned Reefs resort.

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Social Scene » Good Times For a Good Cause The Riverbanks Zoofari

ADVERTISERS INDEX Adventure Carolina........................................10 Blossom Shop...................................................8 Blossom!.........................................................19 Blue Marlin....................................................59 Carolina Couture..............................................9 Carolina Fine Jewelry.....................................20 Carolina Nutrition..........................................32 Carolina Travel Life..........................................2 Casual Living..................................................21 Clarion Hotel..................................................62 Columbia City Ballet.....................................36 Columbia Marathon.......................................36 Dia’s Merle Norman & Boutique...................21 DiPrato’s Delicatessen....................................58 Direct Buy...................................................IBC Dunbar Builders.............................................25 Especially For You..........................................15 Folline Vision..................................................19 Hampton Street Vineyard...............................56 Judy Jarrett Art Gallery..................................15 Just The Thing................................................33 Lexington Medical Center............................BC Liberty Tap Room & Grill............................52 Linden Thomas and Company.....................IFC Mae’s On Main................................................8 Mahogany Me................................................10 March of Dimes............................................11 Meeting Street Interiors.................................29 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney..........................7 Nautical Décor Hut..........................................5 Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union..........7 Palmetto Party Rental.....................................56 Pearlz Oyster Bar............................................52 Pink Sorbet.......................................................8 Ristorante Divino...........................................58 Round Robin....................................................9 Salsarita’s.....................................................57 Senior’s First Home Care..............................32 Southern Ski...................................................33 Sox & Freeman Tree Expert Company...........25 Square One Salon...........................................33 Steven Ford Interiors......................................25 Sylvan & DuBose Jewelers.............................10 Sylvan’s Jewelers................................................1 The Carousel...................................................20 The Chapman Company Fine Jewelers...........33 The Frame Shop................................................9 Tootsies Children’s Shoes................................20 Verve Interiors..................................................3 Village Artist..................................................29 Weekend Planner..............................................9 Wingard’s Nursery..........................................56

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The Riverbanks Zoofari fundraiser drew in the crowd for an evening stroll at the zoo with wild creatures, live entertainment, food, cocktails, and a live auction made for a successful event.

Photographs by Sally Taylor.

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1. Milu Waljer and Taran Walker 2. Gordan and Leona Query 3. John and Gina Reeves 4. Rubin and Jennifer Hyman 5. Linda Bambacus and Amm Houser

The Okra Strut

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The annual Irmo Okra Strut festival brought plenty of laughs and thrills, featuring a parade, street dance, rides for the kids, crafts, and lots of good food. Photographs by Sally Taylor.

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1. Amy Rhine and Teresa McAfee 2. Don and Jan Earles 3. Ann Seigler and Vicki Brown 4. Abby Westbrook and Julia Rawl 5. Judy Soltis and Laurie O’Kelly November/ December 2011 | 63

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF RIVERBANKS ZOO

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Lights Before Christmas Explore the Riverbanks Zoo illuminated by nearly one million twinkling lights and more than 350 handcrafted images. Visit with Santa, roast marshmallows at the Jingle Bell Bonfire, and play in the nightly snowfall.

Exhibition on display at the Riverbanks Zoo from November 19 – December 30.

Visit www.riverbanks.org for more information.

64 | ColumbiaLivingMag.com

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