Spartanburg Everyday v1, i2

Volume I, Issue2 - December 2011/ January 2012

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y a d y r e v e

Christmas at:

Hollywild Animal Park

RoboticSurgery

Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System

TheBIGShowinLittleTheatre Spartanburg Little Theatre

SouthernHospitality The Farmers Market Place

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Farmers Market, Then & Now

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Looking for stressfree shopping this holiday?

At The Farmers Marketplace you will find unique gifts, the latest in fashion, photography for holiday gifts and cards, financial information for the New Year, great cuisine, and pampering from hair style professionals. The Farmers Marketplace has that perfect gift for everyone on your list!

10

Little Theatre SpotLight

SPARTANBURG yday

ever

Publication Acknowledgements: Editors:

Joy Mabry Wanda Mabry

Design and Layout:

Noah Williams, Future’s Graphics, LLC Reid Price, Future’s Graphics, LLC Laura Cole, Future’s Graphics, LLC

Staff Photographer:

Erica Turner, Erica Turner Photography

Contributing Photographers: Dick Carr Kim Atchley Patricia Mabry Clay Terrell, Terrell Photography

Contributing Writers:

Kim Atchley Tina Collier David M. Collins, Jr. Beverly Knight Donna Lambert, DVM Teena Lawson John Linder Joy Mabry Patricia Mabry Wanda Mabry Christophe L. Nguyen, M.D. Reid Price Tina Scales Erica Turner

Sales Staff:

Robert Childers Crystal Barr Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or omissions. No part of this book may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission.Copyright ©2011.

Get a sitter and treat yourself to a night out at the Spartanburg Little Theatre’s seasonal productions of “The Honky Tonk Angels” and “The Santaland Diaries.” Looking for something special to do on family night?

Enjoy the comedy, “Jingle Bells, Batman Smells”, at the Spartanburg Youth Theatre.

Christmas at Hollywild

14

What is dark, wild and too much fun to miss? The nightlife at Hollywild!

Don’t miss this once a year event.

Lights, lights, and more lights on the night safari ride. Animals to pet, feed, and ride, a bonfire, hot dogs and goodies, that Bethlehem night, and Santa is there too!

Surgery With Less Pain

26

Many procedures in the areas of heart, lung, kidney and uterus can be performed robotically, allowing for less pain and faster recovery for the patient. If you need surgery, talk to your doctor or one of the robotics team physicians at Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System to find out if you’re a candidate for robotic surgery.

SPARTANBURGEVERYDAY.COM •

1

Magpie Chatter

CONTENTS

W

elcome to the Holiday Edition of Spartanburg Everyday.

We leave behind the warm days, beautiful landscapes, baseball games, local fairs, and great produce, to rush frantically into the busiest time of the year. We must find that perfect gift, prepare the perfect meal, successfully orchestrate the social event of the season, attend the holiday performances, and remember those less fortunate than ourselves. For most of us, this seems like an overwhelming task, especially while trying not to “break the bank.”

We hope this edition will help you with gift ideas, as well as planning and preparing for your special holiday time and traditions. Remember: “The best gifts in life are free.” Tell the folks in your life, such as mentors, teachers, spouses, children etc.. how vital they have been to your success in love, life, and profession.

We hope that you will take time this holiday season to enjoy family and friends, special holiday events and our beautiful community. Remember to support those in the community and abroad that are giving their time, talents, money and even lives to give us and others, freedom and hope. Above all else, let’s remember the true reason we celebrate Christmas!

Web Alert

As we look ahead to a new year, we want to remember the milestones that a few of the organizations and businesses in our community have achieved this year. This year was the 65th year of the Piedmont Interstate Fair, the 60th year of service for the Junior League of Spartanburg, Spartanburg HarleyDavidson’s 46th year celebration, and the Sugar & Spice’s 50th year anniversary. These milestones were achieved by ideals, goals, perseverance, and hard work. This year set goals for yourself to live healthier, love more, and to pursue at least one of your dreams. Drop us an e-mail and let us know about the milestones you have coming up in your business in 2012. And as always please help us to continue to grow and improve by sending us your comments.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from the staff of Spartanburg Everyday!

www.SpartanburgEveryday.com

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Magnolia Magpies LLC

Featured Articles ...1 Magpie Chatter ...2

3 CALENDARS

Opera House Calendar ...3 Krispy Kreme ...4 DK Boutique & Spa ...4 December Calendar ...4 Tiers of Joy ...5 January Calendar ...5 Skatell’s Jewelers ...6

7 OUR COMMUNITY

Celebrating Our Community ...7

8 THEN & NOW

Farmers MarketPlace ...8 Mixed Company Salon ...8 Palmetto Palate ...8 Richard Petty & Associates ...8 Chances Boutique ...8 Local Businesses With Southern Hospitality ...9 Terrell Photography ...9

10 THE SPOTLIGHT

The BIG Show In Little Theatre ...10

13 HOLIDAY TIPS

John’s Restaurant & Catering ...13 Hollywild Animal Park ...14 Erica Turner Photography ...16 The New Age Christmas Capers ...17 Ship Shapes ...18 Spartan Bakery ...18 Carruth Furniture ...18

19 FAMILY LIFE

Southern Martial Arts ...19 Collins Law Firm ...20 The Adoption Two-Steps ...21 Stanta’s Shoppe ...22 The First Tee ...23

Joy Mabry, editor jmabry@spartanburgeveryday.com

24 PET HEALTH

Wanda Mabry, editor wmabry@spartanburgeveryday.com

25 HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Follow us on

@spartanburgeveryday

2 •Volume 1,Issue 2 • DEC 2011/JAN 2012

Creature Comforts ...24

On The Cover: Christmas at Hollywild Photo by: Kim Atchley

Curves ...25 S R H: Robotic Surgery ...26 Caring Transitions ...28

Jim Brickman

Louise Mandrell

Loretta Lynn T EATRO LIRICO D’EUROPA

Giorgio Lalov, Artistic Director

A FASCINATING DRAMA OF SEDUCTION, CURSES, BETRAYAL, VENDETTAS AND MURDER...

RIGOLETTO

VERDI’S

John Tesh

December 12/1 Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver Christmas 12/2 Palmetto Mastersingers 12/5 An Irish Christmas 12/6 Christmas w/ Emile Pandolfi 12/7 Carolina FreeStyle Holiday Show 12/8 B J Thomas 12/9 Vintage Christmas, Downtown Newberry 12/10 208th Army Reserve Band, Charlotte 12/12 An Evening w/ Chad and Jeremy 12/13 John Tesh – Big Band Christmas!

12/14 A Christmas Carol, The Musical 12/18 The Lettermen 12/31 New Years Celebration with Dick Goodwin Big Band January 1/18 Travis Tritt 1/19 Travis Tritt 1/21 Doc Watson and David Holt 1/22 Glenn Miller Orchestra 1/28 Rigoletto, Verdi’s Classic Opera 1/29 Jake Shimabukuro

Travis Tritt

Martha Reeves + The Vandellas

February 2/2 Ain’t Misbehavin’, The Musical 2/3 Hotel California “A Salute to the Eagles” 2/8 The Temptations 2/11 Abbey Simon, Pianist 2/12 Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder 2/14 Brigadoon, The Musical 2/17 Ray Price 2/18 The Four Freshmen

2/19 2/25 2/29

Arlo Guthrie James Gregory “The Funniest Man in America” Burlesque to Broadway

March 3/2 An Acoustic Evening with The Buckinghams 3/3 Cowboy Movies with The Saddle Pals 3/4 Lee Greenwood & Louise Mandrell 3/15 Vienna Boys Choir 3/16 Martha Reeves & the Vandellas 3/22 Steep Canyon Rangers 3/28 The Highwaymen Musical Tribute, Waylon-Willie-Johnny April 4/12 4/13 4/15 4/18 4/19 4/20 4/22 4/23 4/27 4/29

Starship with Mickey Thomas An Evening with Nanci Griffith Oak Ridge Boys Stand by Your Man – The Tammy Wynette Story Canadian Brass Roberta Flack Jim Brickman, “An Evening of Romance” Newberry College Music Dept., Opera Scenes Loretta Lynn Doug and Bunny Williams

May 5/5 Artie Shaw Orchestra 5/12 Hen Party, Comedy 5/19 Rick Alviti

Gift Certificates Available

Box Office and Online:

803-276-6264 www.newberryoperahouse.com

Hotel California

Call Glenn Reese & Staff For Fund Raising

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gift certificates available 131 West Main Street Spartanburg, SC 29306

(864) 591-2033

www.dkboutiqueandspa.com Bare Escentuals, Bare Minerals Skincare, MD Formulation, Tyler Candles, Archipelago Botanicals, Big Buddha, Jewelry, Spa Packages.

December Calendar of Events

Friday, December 02, 2011 South Carolina Arbor Day hosted by USC Upstate-featured speaker is Dr. Michael Dirr, renowned in the landscaping for horticulture field.Visit USC Upstate’s web site for events schedule.

Friday, December 02, 2011 Christmas on Limestone-Old Fashioned Christmas Celebration-Historic Downtown Gaffney 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm Friday, December 02, 2011 Light Up Inman-Rides for the kids, Horse & Carriage rides, food and fun. 6 pm to 8 pm Saturday, December 03, 2011 Christmas in Spartanburg:A History- Spartanburg County Historical Association.

Celebrate 150 years of Christmas in one day.

See the decorations used from the 1800’s to the 1960’s. 10 am to 5 pm.

Saturday, December 03, 2011 Inman Christmas Parade 10 am Saturday, December 03, 2011 Cowpens Christmas Parade 4 pm. Tree Lighting will follow the parade.

December 4, 11, & 18, 2011 Holiday Concert Series-Premium Outlets in Gaffney. The Streetlight Quartet will perform in the Food Court. 10:30 am to 1:30 pm Sunday, December 04, 2011 Bill Drake Christmas Music Festival-2 pm at Spartanburg Memeorial Auditorium December 9 to December 11, 2011 The Nutcracker-Twichell Auditorium, Converse College. Presented by Ballet Spartanburg.

Call 864.583.0339 for more information.

Friday, December 09, 2011 Mamma Mia!-The smash hit musical will be performed at 8pm at Spartanburg Memorial Auditoriuam Saturday, December 10, 2011 Toys for Tots-Premium Outlets in Gaffney.

New, unwrapped toys will be collected beside the Toys R Us store from 10 am to 4:30 pm.

Saturday, December 10, 2011 Pacolet Christmas Parade-Starts at 10 am Saturday, December 10, 2011 Gaffney Christmas Parade

Sunday, December 11, 2011 Saturday, December 03, 2011 Carol Singing-Cowpens First Baptist Church Chesnee Christmas Parade 2 pm 6 pm Tuesday, December 13, 2011 Spartanburg Jaycess Christmas Parade-6:30 pm Saturday, December 03, 2011 Live Nativity in Pacolet-7:30 pm at the Ruins Sunday, December 11, 2011 of Victor Inn Woodruff Christmas Parade 3 pm

4 •Volume 1,Issue 2 • DEC 2011/JAN 2012

Tuesday, December 13, 2011 Messiah-David Reid Theatre, Chapman Cultural Center. The public is invited to sing the well-known parts of the Messiah. Sponsored by Firist Baptist Church of Lyman. 7:30 pm.

This event is free.

Thursday, December 15, 2011 David Ball’s Jingle Django Christmas Jam-7 pm at the Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium Saturday, December 17, 2011 A Healthy Breakfast with Bree- Village Hospital Communit Center. Miss South Carolina, Bree Boyce, will host a breakfast for young ladies while sharing her struggles with obesity.

Girls 12 and up are invited. Moms are welcome. Register online.

Sunday, December 18, 2011 A Carolina Christmas-David Reid Theatre, Chapman Cultural Center.

The all-volunteer Spartanburg Community Band will present their annual Carolina Christmas concert. 3 pm December 19-23, 2011 Pacolet Express Train Ride-6:30 pm to 9:30 pm at The Amphitheater Sunday, December 25, 2011 Merry Christmas from Spartanburg Everyday

January Calendar of Events

Saturday, January 01, 2012 Happy New Year from the staff at Spartanburg Everyday

about how to control diabetes. You must have a physician referral to participate. Contact Erica Moore at 864.560.6465 to register.

Saturday, January 07, 2012 25th New Years Gospel Sing-The McKamey’s, Inspirations, Primitives & Diplomats will perform at 6 pm at the Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium

Thursday, January 26, 2012 Laugh for a Child-Killer Beaz are featured at the Healthy Smiles of Spartanburg event to be held at the David Reid Theatre, Chpman Cultural Center at 7pm. Call 864.592.4696 for ticket information.

Wednesday, January 11, 2012 Music Sandwiched In-Barrett Room, Library Headquarters. The Music Foundation of Spartanburg presents a performance by a select cast from The Spartanburg Little Theatre’s upcoming production of :The Honky Tonk Angels” 12:15 pm to 1 pm. Free event-Bring a Brown Bag lunch or purchase a box lunch from Panera.

January 13 to January 22, 2012 “The Honkey Tonk Angels”-Spartanburg Little Theatre. This musical comedy is about the journey of three women who set out to become country music stars.

January 14 & 15, 2012 General Daniel Morgan’s Victory March to the Cowpens National Battle Site-Call Pacolet Town Hall for more information-864.474.9504 Tuesday, January 17, 2012 A New You:Options in Surgical Weight Loss-Village Hospital Community CenterDiscussion on available options with Dr. Jason Johnson of Spartanburg’s Regional Weight Loss Services. 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm Wednesday, January 18, 2012 Diabetes Self Management EducationCommunity Center-Learn as much as you can

Saturday, January 28, 2012 Wedding Festivals Bridal Show-10 am - 3 pm at the Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium Tuesdays, Jan. 3-Feb. 13, 2012 Freedom From Smoking-Cardio-Pulmonary Rehab-seven-week smoking cessation program by the American Lung Association. 6:30 pm to 8 pm. Call 864.560.4472 to register.

Facials Back Facial Microdermabrasion Tinting

Saturday, January 28, 2012 Spartanburg Philharmonic Orchestra:Masterworks III-Twichell Auditorium, Converve College. Titanic Medley, Concerto for Two Violins and Symphony No. 2 D major will be presented by the Music Foundation of Spartanburg. Sarah Johnson, Vioin and Mary Irwin, Violin will be featured.

7 pm.

864-415-1293 Carolyn Smith

Sunday, January 29, 2012 Spartanburg Downtown Airport-Past, Present & Future-Spartanburg County Historical Association will hold it’’s annual meeting at the airport. Ariport Director Darwin Simpson will share an entertaining and informative presentation about the downtown airport and it’s impact on Spartanburg. 3pm to 5 pm. Non members are welcomed. The event is free and refreshments will be served.

Licensed Esthetician

800 S. Pine Street Spartanburg, SC 29302

Carolina Special Facial and Manicure $65.00 SPARTANBURGEVERYDAY.COM •

5

Our COmmunity

Celebrating Our Community Hatcher Garden Christmas At Hollywild

Fall for Hatcher

Piedmont Interstate Fair

Christmas At Hollywild Piedmont Interstate Fair

Fall for Hatcher

Piedmont Interstate Fair

Piedmont Interstate Fair

Fall for Hatcher

Christmas At Hollywild

The First Tee of Spartanburg Training SPARTANBURGEVERYDAY.COM •

7

864-583-0486

Discover How Good Fresh Tastes

Just back from The Schwartzkopf Academy in NYC, our team is here to help you look your best!!!

As a special thank you to our beautiful salon guests, stop in and receive:

$5.00 Off any full size retail product from Pureology and Nuema!

- Farmers Marketplace 401 East Kennedy Street Spartanburg, SC 29302

Happy Holidays !!!

- Farmers Marketplace -

401 E. Kennedy St. Suite B-5 Spartanburg, SC 29302

Richard Petty &

Associates

Health, Life, and Disability Insurance Annuities

Celebrating 35 business years in downtown Spartanburg

401 E. Kennedy St. Suite B4 864-582-6882 864-582-6882 Fax. 864-585-4741 richardasso@bellsouth.net

8 •Volume 1,Issue 2 • DEC 2011/JAN 2012

KYLE WILLIAMS EXECUTIVE CHEF

864.541.1818 Chefs@PalmettoPalate.com

WWW.PALMETTOPALATE.COM

By: Joy Mabry

Shop for the holidays at the Farmers Market? Only if you enjoy a stress-free environment with friendly, helpful folks that can help you find a variety of unique gifts and services for everyone on your list, including yourself. What use to be an area of fresh produce grown by local farmers, is now an area of fresh food, fresh expressions for hair and fashion, and proven methods for capturing families memories, and protecting your family financially. Come out and meet your local business owners who are making a difference in their community by providing superior quality and service.

“We love photographing people and getting to know them on a personal level!” says, Clay Terrell at Terrell Photography.

For over 40 years, Terrell Photography has been capturing memories in Spartanburg and the upstate.

“Our specialties are weddings, preschools, High School Seniors, Debutante Balls, and of course your family and children!”

Then & Now

Local Businesses with Southern Hospitality

Richard Petty & Associates specialize in financial planning with emphasis on Annuities, Health, Life, and Disability insurance. “We represent a variety of insurance companies to provide our customers with the best coverage for each indiPalmetto Palate started as a catering business; however, when vidual’s needs. With Richard Petty & Associates you get perspace became available in November of 2009 at the Farmers sonal help on a claim rather than talking to an automated anMarketplace, Barb Colvin and her son, Kyle Williams decided swering service,” says Richard of Richard Petty & Associates. to open Palmetto Palate as a café. Kyle Williams spent 8 years in Charleston where he attended culinary school and worked While at the Farmers Marketplace stop in make your appointin various restaurants, gaining a wealth of knowledge about ment to see Mar, Matt, Cindy, Mindy, Karma, Shana, or Vicfoods and flavors. Palmetto Palate is now open for lunch and toria. Matt says, Mixed Company Salon has been a cherished dinner and is the first “certified fresh on the menu” restaurant fixture in this community for over 30 years. Our philosophy in Spartanburg; furthering their commitment and support to has never changed: Fill the salon with highly educated, paslocal suppliers in the community. sion-filled stylists who are dedicated to making our guests beautiful, and have some fun doing it!”

“Take a Chance,” was the advice given to Gina Holcomb and Claudia Sims at the Chances Boutique, located in the Farm- At the Farmers Marketplace, you will find local business ers Marketplace. After visiting this sophisticated, yet reason- owners who know their customers, cater to their customers’ ably priced boutique that offers classic clothing with an edge, needs, and are passionate about their work and community. If one can easily see why it is not by “chance” they are still here. it is just a quick gift or you plan to spend the day, the business Chances Boutique is where art meets fashion. owners promise to make your visit fun, fresh, and ‘fruitful’.

SPARTANBURGEVERYDAY.COM •

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The SpotLight

E R T A E H T E L T

IN LIT

Who could have imagined when Janna McClure got her first lead role in an E. P. Todd Elementary School musical and began singing with her brother and sister in the church choir that she’d one day aspire to be a “honky tonk angel.”

But the University of South Carolina Upstate Early Childhood Education major admits that she has been stage struck ever since her parents encouraged her to audition for the Spartanburg Little Theatre production of “The King and I” when she was six.

throughout everything that I have ever done. They have both found ways to get involved with the theatre,” McClure says of her family’s love affair with community theatre.

Her recent appearances in last season’s “Willie Wonka” and “Annie,” the opening play this season, only whetted her appetite for musical theatre, spurring her to audition for the upcoming production of “Honky Tonk Angels,” a threewoman show written by Ted Swindley, the creator of “Always . . . Patsy Cline,” SLT’s blockbuster hit from last season.

From the start, the “I ha joked since I ve stage was a “family “I have joked read about ‘H onky Tonk A affair” for the Mcsince I read Clures, with Janna’s about ‘Honky that I was bo ngels’ rn to mom, Jan, working with Tonk Angels’ that I be a Honky costumes and her dad, was born to be a Honky Tonk Angel” Malcom, usually on stage Tonk Angel,” the veteran Janna McClu re with her. “My parents performer says of the prohave been my support duction which is in

10 •Spartanburg SpotLight • Volume 1,Issue 2 • DEC 2011/JAN 2012

rehearsal and opens January 13. “The show is right up my alley. I have a love for great comedy and even more so for country music. The show just seemed like too much fun, and I couldn’t pass up the audition.”

Her role as Darlene, one of three women who are fed up with their lives and set out to chase their dreams of becoming country music stars, gives her an opportunity to belt out songs originally sung by such country stars as Loretta Lynn, Dolly Parton, Tammy Wynette and Willie Nelson.

That may seem unusual fare for a woman who’s sung in the church choir and high school chorus and who took voice lessons in the Pre-Converse College program for nine years. But music has always been her escape, she says.

“I love the experience of leaving ‘Janna’ for a little while and exploring something new,” the performer says of the

variety of roles she’s undertaken over the years. “Getting to be somebody else for a little while is kind of like a break from the real world – something that we all need from time to time.”

Fortunately for local audiences, there are hundreds of others like McClure who volunteer their time to create memorable performances on the SLT stage. Jay Coffman, executive artistic director of the SLT, points to the large cast musicals such as “Annie” as an example of how many people it takes to stage a successful production.

The musical required 54 cast members, from elementary school age to those in their 60s, with an additional 35 musicians, technical support staff and backstage workers. On any given night there were 85 people working on the show that drew 3,800 audience members for its eight performances.

A musical like “Annie” costs up to $35,000 to produce, while a play can be staged for $10 – 15,000. But the staff and board of SLT believe that the joy the performers and audience get from a big musical far outweighs the cost.

Putting together a season is an intricate process, Coffman says, pointing to the many factors that come into play when selecting shows. “We try to be sure that there is something for everyone, and we’re sure we’ve done that this season,” he says of the slate that includes three musicals and two straight plays. In addition to “Annie,” a family musical, the season includes another large cast musical, “Titanic,” the jukebox style musical, “Honky Tonk Angels,” and two straight plays, “39 Steps” and “On Golden Pond.”

SLT will also be staging a Christmas show at the Showroom at Hub-Bub which opens December 9. The intimate venue is suited to more avant garde productions that the director terms “riskier but artistically important.” Coffman is excited to be reprising his one-man performance in David Sedaris’ “Santaland Diaries,” which chronicles the hilarious experiences of a man who’s working as an elf in Macy’s Santaland.

“We try to be sure that there is something for everyone”

The SpotLight

Janna and father, Malcom McClure

sound. Even though a non-musical draws a smaller audience, Coffman feels strongly that the large cast musicals on the season ticket should be balanced by straight shows that might not be as well known to local theatre-goers.

“We caution that this show is for mature audiences only,” Coffman says of the uproariously funny show.

“We are always careful to consider the tastes of the community,” Coffman says Jay Coffman of the delicate process of mixing well-known offerings with little-known The SLT is the parent plays. “We like to guide the audiorganization of the Spartanence toward things they’ll enjoy, not burg Youth Theatre, under the leadpush them to things they won’t.” ership of managing director Deana

“The David Reid Theatre at the Chapman Cultural Center, the home of SLT, seats 476, and there were people begging for tickets for the final weekend’s performances,” Coffman says of the show that required two extra shows to accommodate the demand.

In contrast, the second show of the season, “39 Steps,” had only four actors and 10 people working lights and

Jay Coffman, executive director of the Spartanburg Little Theatre, and Deana Neibert, managing director of the Spartanburg Youth Theatre SPARTANBURGEVERYDAY.COM •

11

The SpotLight

Neibert, which presents its own season at the David Reid Theatre. Young people who participate in SYT productions not only perform, but they also handle all other aspects of mounting a show.

“Aside from the adult director and technical director, the children do everything,” Coffman says of the successful youth program that for each of its productions serves 3,000 students in two days of school time shows and another 1,000 to 1,500 in the three public performances.

“SYT mounts four productions each season and prides itself on providing an educational as well as an artistic experience,” Coffman says, noting that many of the SYT performers graduate to the SLT stage.

“It’s important to get youth involved at an early age,” Coffman says, pointing to the fact that SYT draws participants from every part of Spartanburg County as well as Union and Cherokee counties.

Coffman acknowledges that moving into the state-of-the-art facility at the Chap-

man Cultural Center in 2007 has increased both audience participation and the demographics of the audience. SLT has truly become a regional draw, Coffman says, engaging performers and audience members from all over the Upstate and Western North Carolina.

The enthusiasm generated is certainly infectious, as McClure knows. “The talent in Spartanburg is overflowing and there is no better place to see that than on the stage at the Chapman Cultural Center,” says the performer who evidences her strong belief in the importance of community theatre.

“I believe in people from all different backgrounds and all different walks of life coming together to better our community. That is exactly what the Spartanburg Little Theatre does,” McClure says of the SLT family that reflects the diversity of the community.

12 •Spartanburg SpotLight • Volume 1,Issue 2 • DEC 2011/JAN 2012

Pam Broome and Jay Coffman in “Arsenic and Old Lace” “The Spartanburg Little Theatre has made a huge impact on my life and I feel safe in saying the same for the rest of my family, biological and SLT,” McClure says of her years on the stage, acknowledging the community that supports the arts and supports the people who make SLT happen.

Thank you for letting us do what we love.

Chef Linder, What brought you to the Spartanburg area?

I grew up in Spartanburg. After chef school, I decided to continue my education. I received a BS in business management from USCS. While in school I worked in area restaurants. My last job before opening the restaurant was as kitchen manager at Skylyn Place Retirement Center.

A-

Q-

If I was visiting your café for the first time, what do you suggest I try that would be a representation of your

culinary gifts?

One item which has been on my menu since I opened is the Café Combo. This is my homemade chicken salad and home-made pimento cheese with fresh fruit. If you are a meat and vegetable person, I do a lunch special daily.

A-

Q-

When preparing a special event for a large crowd, what would you say is the most critical thing to consider in the areas of food, décor, & location?

The most critical thing to consider in food is what time of day is the event. Is the food for a meal or just appetizers? Does the party have a theme? Is the location sufficient for the type of party needed, seating capacity, parking, drop-in or sit down?

A-

Q-

Why did you pick the Wilkins House as your event venue?

My wife and I decided we needed a venue to cater out of. We started looking at different places. I found the house in Cowpens. I could picture in my mind the house would be a beautiful place for weddings and receptions.

A-

Q- A-

What is the largest event you have catered or hosted?

We have had weddings for 250 at the Wilkins House. In doing weddings that size, tents are a must for the party. Outside of the house, we have catered parties up to 1000 people.

Q-

What type of food is the most requested overall for events?

Weddings have typical items like chicken tenders, fruit displays, and chicken salad and

pimento cheese in a puffed pastry.

Q-

A-

If your daughter were getting married, what type of food or foods would you suggest?

Her favorite is my swedish meatballs, and she can never get enough of my hand breaded chicken tenders. If we were doing a sit down meal, I would have to prepare prime rib.

John’s R&estaurant Catering

Holiday Tips

Q-

By: Joy Mabry

Chef John Linder is a Graduate from Johnson & Wales

University, where he received a degree in Culinary Arts. He also received a B.S. in Business Management from the University of South Carolina at Spartanburg. After seven years of working in the Food Service Industry, John went out on his own in March of 1995, purchasing what is now John’s Café and Catering. In 2001, John purchased a house built in 1901 on Main Street, Cowpens.

He presently uses this house as a banquet facility for Weddings, Rehearsals, Birthday Parties, Anniversaries, Christmas parties, Sweet 16 parties and just about any type of party you can imagine.

The name of the facility was picked by John to remember the original family, which lived there. Today it is called The Wilkins House where they can accomodate sit down meals for 100 guests and stand up receptions for up to 250 guests.

Call John at The Wilkins House for you next special event!

John’s Cafe & Catering 311 Bennett Dairy Rd Spartanburg, SC 29307

864-579-7969

A-

Q-

How much notice do you need or suggest when someone is booking an event at the Wilkins House or catering an event with John’s Café & Catering?

Most people need to understand, certain dates and times of the year get booked out early. For weddings I suggest booking a year in advance. This is not to say we cannot do an event in less time. Just this past week, I booked a wedding with only a 7 day notice. They were lucky the date was open. Christmas parties usually start booking in September.

A-

Q-

Do you frequently lose sleep at night preparing for large events?

Only on the days I need 5 of me to get the prep work done.

Q-

A-

Do you think it is more economical to cater than to prepare or buy food for large events?

I suggest to people, if they want to enjoy an event, cater it.

A-

Q-

With individuals becoming more health conscience, has this changed the menu selections in your Café and/or catering services?

I have always tried to have items on my menus to accommodate any type of person.

A-

The Wilkins House 5375 N. Main St. Cowpens, SC SPARTANBURGEVERYDAY.COM •

13

Holiday Tips

Light Up Your Holiday Celebration at

Hollywild

By Kim Atchley

Animal Park

Lights that twinkle and sparkle are a sure sign that holiday celebrations are underway. When you take millions of lights, add friends, family, and a few hundred animals, you have the 21st annual Holiday Lights Safari! The event opened Saturday, November 19th and runs through Sunday, January 1st at Hollywild Animal Park in the Wellford/Inman area of the Upstate.

Take an insider’s look….

Night has fallen, and you make your way to Hollywild Animal Park in Inman, SC. You pull into the drive, steering your way through one of the entrance gates. Slowly, you start into the car route… the road opens and your eyes widen to take in the thousands of lights that greet you.

You drive through the areas you walked over during the summer season. No longer do you see the various animal habitats…. You see trees filled with glittering lights. You see lighted shapes of animals seeming to leap in front of you.

Lights outline a carousel where Shelby, the giant African SpurThigh Tortoise greeted you this summer.

Large animal silhouette characters smile at you. The kids in the back seat are squealing with delight.

Look at that….. Look ….. I see a jumping deer…….did you see that giant lollipop? Look…. Look….look!

You make your way slowly through the front area of the park, feeling the cares of daily life slip away as the magic of the wonderland you’ve found sinks in…..

14 •Holiday Tips • Volume 1,Issue 2 • DEC 2011/JAN 2012

You cross the pond bridge, enveloped in lights. You turn into the safari area, where friendly staffers ask if you’d like some food for feeding the animals in the deer forest.

“Feed them, from the car?” you ask.

“Oh yes, just roll down your windows and they’ll stick their heads right in.”

“Really?”

“Yes, Really. Have fun!”

Still not believing what you’ve just heard, you enter the area you remember was a safari, just this summer. But what a transformation you see!

And then, the deer… and oh my, zebras, cattle, and emu arrive, looking to you for a holiday treat!

Yes, a zebra actually stuck its head into your car and ate from your lap! Now you have a great story to share at work!

You continue slowly through the animals and light displays and park your car in front of Santa’s Village. For the first time

Holiday Tips

After the little one’s pony ride, you move back through the barns, visiting the animals, small and large, then take a walk up the ramp to “Santa’s Attic” in the upper part of one of the barns. There you’ll find Mrs. Claus with cookies and other treats for purchase. While you’re there, be sure to step out onto the overlook.

The view you see is like nothing you’ve ever seen before……

As you finish your visit to Santa’s Village and start to head to your car, you’re thinking of all the people you wish could have been with you during this fun night. As you head to the exit, again navigating your car along the lighted way, you enter a peaceful area…. The lights are lower, and focused on a scene from Bethlehem of long ago…..

A reminder of the reason for this beautiful season…..

As you exit the Holiday Lights Safari, you’re already deciding that you’ll bring everyone back, along with the relatives coming in for the holidays. of the night, you get out of the car feeling that there couldn’t possibly be more to this wonderful night. But oh, there is.

Entering the walking area you warm your hands by the bonfire as you look around. Hot dogs and other goodies call out for munching as you scan the village scene. Barns, filled with all kinds of animals, and petting pens, filled with baby goats, call to you.

As you walk around, you and your family get up-close-andpersonal looks at sheep, goats, and llamas, and then you meet the giants … the Holsteins, the bison, the camels, and the Belgian draft horses.

Stepping back between the barns, you discover a whole new petting area, a fenced play area where your children can go in and play with the baby deer (fawns), just their size.

A sign saying “Photos with Santa” calls you to record this special night with “The Big Man,” and take home a memento of this fun night.

Leaving the Photos with Santa, you catch a glimpse of another lighted area ……the pony forest! There, children are taking pony rides through a forest of lighted trees.

It’s an experience you want to share….the magic of the season…. Hollywild style.

Holiday Lights Safari is open nightly, November 19th through January 1st, including holidays!

Weeknight hours are 6-9 PM. Weekend hours extended through 10-11 PM. Cost: Admission is $6 per person, there are no per car rates.

Group rates are available.

Animal food (and baby bottles) available for purchase.

Tickets are needed for the ‘extras’ in Santa’s Village.

Tickets are $1 each with discounts offered for multiple ticket purchases.

“People” food: hot dogs, nachos, chips, drinks, etc. are 1-3 tickets. Baby bottle for animals are 1 ticket.

Photos with Santa and pony rides are 6 tickets.

Directions: Hollywild Animal Park is located at 2325 Hampton Road in Wellford, SC. The GPS Coordinates are (longitude, latitude): -82.1432292 , 35.024408 Route specific directions can be found at www.hollywild.com

Call (864)472-2038.

SPARTANBURGEVERYDAY.COM •

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Holiday Tips

custom prints · photo purses - baby photos · photo cards - fine art prints gallery wraps - custom collages · custom albums - photo jewelry

Socks, holiday neck ties, hand warmers, fuzzy dice...

Excited about Christmas gifts yet? Why not give a gift of generations? Photographs, a gift that is personal and genuine; a snap-shot of the soul; portraits of life! A photograph memorializes family, friendships, and dreams; it captures laughter, smiles, and special moments shared between loved ones. In a glance, it is a reminder of where you came from, where you are now, and where you hope to be. This gift is not just enjoyed at Christmas, but may be displayed for years to come.

As a custom lifestyle photographer, I create these precious gifts. Stuff the stockings and deck the halls with prints in a variety of sizes and paper types, books, albums, CDs and DVDsor think outside the box/frame and craft photographs into storyboards, expression panels, photo jewelry and bags. Consider the gift of photography this holiday season for maternity, newborns, children, friends, engagements or weddings.

Erica Turner

16 •Holiday Tips • Volume 1,Issue 2 • DEC 2011/JAN 2012

phone 864.590.5990

314 South Pine St. Building 100 Spartanburg, SC 29302

Christmas Capers By: Reid Price

With Cyber Monday growing in popularity over Black Friday, hopefully it will lead to less fist fights in line or muggings in the mall parking lot. However; one thing it likely won’t lead to is less holiday crime overall. The fastest growing crime in this new digital age is the dreaded, costly, and time consuming identity theft.

Everyone loves the conveniences computers bring us, but they also introduce a new element of danger. The first danger is from computer savvy criminals that create harmful software to wreak havoc on your machine or worse to get data stored or entered into your machine. These information stealing programs are called spyware. The best defense against them is a good up-to-date firewall and antivirus software.

The second very real threat comes from the new age con artist. It usually arrives via an email and is known as phising because they are “phising” for information. These scammers are often clever and they may use data they already have about you to try and get your bank account or credit card information.

Sometimes they may pretend to be your bank, a friend they found on your Facebook page, or a relative they discovered through online public records.

Your first instinct with any email should be skepticism.

Even if it comes from an email address you recognize, understand that passwords are breakable and no email account is 100% secure.

When shopping online for holiday gifts, it is important to ensure you are using legitimate websites. A good rule of thumb is to use websites that

that people can be anything they want to be online, which can be very fun for some, but malicious for others. Don’t give out any information online that you wouldn’t give out on a first date no matter how long you have been communicating with him or her, or how well you think you know the person on the other end of the computer. Also, use the internet to your advantage and research him/her before you decide to meet anyone in person that you have been “dating” online, and make your first meeting is in a public and secure location.

Holiday Tips

The New Age

people you know have successfully ordered from or a company that has a physical store you have visited.

When going to a company’s website look for their official logo, and remember if an offer looks too good to be true, it usually is. Once you have made your selections and are ready to check out, be sure that the checkout screen is on a site with a valid security certificate. You can check that by ensuring that the navigation bar displays a site that begins with https; and the lock at the bottom of the screen is closed. If your computer tries to warn you about an expired or invalid security certificate, listen and try to find your product at another site with proper credentials.

Computers can be a lot of fun and help with shopping and socializing. However, you must be as careful online as you are in the “real” world.

Finally, ‘tis the season to Enjoy your technology safely reach out and connect, but this holiday season. if you are looking for someone new online, tread carefully. Again it is important to use reputable sites or chat rooms. Even with a good site you still need to appreciate

SPARTANBURGEVERYDAY.COM •

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Spartan Bakery, LLC.

COMPLETE HOME FURNISHINGS

Since 1939

Mike & Cathy Tucker OWNERS spartanbakery@ymail.com 210 Westgate Mall Drive Spartanburg, S.C. 29301

(864) 587-9244 (864) 587-1561 Fax: (864) 587-1811

Since 1953, Carruth Furniture Company has provided all that’s needed to furnish homes from the bedroom to the kitchen and everywhere in between.

Featuring some of the best names in the business-La-Z-Boy, Lexington, Simmons, Beautyrest, GE Sales and Service. We offer a full line of furniture, appliances and home accents. Family-owned and operated, Carruth prides itself on providing knowledgeable and attentive customer service. Call or stop by.

Helping you make your home beautiful since 1953!

864.457.3344

Facebook - Spartan Bakery Spartanburg 18 •Holiday Tips • Volume 1,Issue 2 • DEC 2011/JAN 2012

104 S HOWARD AVE • HWY 176 • LANDRUM •

Family Life

By: Tina Scales

Instructor Colby Scales

3rd degree black belt, began taking martial arts at age of four. Colby earned his black belt at age eight, and received his 2nd Degree Black Belt at age twelve. Colby began competing nationwide at age eight and continued competing until age 13. Colby has won many state titles as well as national titles. Colby holds a amateur Team Sparring World title, and also holds a National BlackBelt League Team Sparring World title. He has earned his 3rd degree black belt while teaching at Southern Martial Arts. He, too like Coach Drew, loves teaching and inspiring youth. He also enjoys encouraging students to make wise choices and good decisions in life by applying principles acquired and demonstrated through martial arts programs.

Southern Martial Arts teaches a plethora of martial arts styles.

We incorporate Tae Kwon Do, boxing, and some Muay Thai for our stand up game. In selfdefense and ground defense, we integrate Israeli combat and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, respectively.

Students also train with weapons such as bo staff, kamas, and a sword combining applications and history of each weapon.

Self-defense, styles, and weapons are the instruments used to instruct students in learning and demonstrating: • Discipline • Self-Control • Focus • Self-Esteem • Respect • Fitness As students advance in martial arts programs, a feeling of accomplishment instills added confidence, self-esteem, and discipline.

Coach Andrew (Drew) Maness

4th degree black belt, started his martial arts training because of a bully. Coach Drew says, “I fell in love with it after the first lesson, and didn’t realize at the time that I would make a career out of it.” Coach Drew started his martial arts training at the National Karate Institute, Summerville, SC, under instructor Marc Deschenes 7th degree black belt. He earned a 2nd degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do under the National Karate Institue, then moved to Spartanburg to train in American Freestyle, where he earned a 4th Degree Black Belt. Coach Drew stated, “I’m very passionate about my job and take pride in the accomplishments of my students. I’ve had several jobs in addition to teaching martial arts and none of them come close to the satisfaction I get from teaching. After just 6 months of training, Coach Drew states, I never had another incident with said bully, and was able to solve my issue without the use of physical violence.”

SPARTANBURGEVERYDAY.COM •

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Family Life Martial arts programs encourage discipline, focus, and selfcontrol. This discipline and instruction provides individuals with the confidence and self-esteem to handle threating situations with a rational and non-violent response. However; in an emergency situation, this training prepares individuals with the skills, knowledge, and fitness to react quickly and effectively if necessary for protection.

20 •Family Life • Volume 1,Issue 2 • DEC 2011/JAN 2012

TWO-STEP

By: David M. Collins, Jr. Family Law Attorney THE ADOPTION PROCESS IN SOUTH CAROLINA After handling adoptions for over 12 years I have heard a wide range of expectations and beliefs about the adoption process from clients and their family members. Some believe that the adoption process is so expensive and complicated that they will never be able to adopt. Others believe that just because a child has lived with them for some time that the adoption is just a formality.

The truth lies somewhere in between. South Carolina has an adoption process that is designed to make adoption simple enough that children can be placed in homes where they will be loved and cared for while preventing children and hopeful couples from being taken advantage of and harmed.

The adoption process in South Carolina consists of two steps: 1. Cutting the child’s ties to his or her original parents 2. Creating a new tie to the couple adopting him or her.

These steps have to occur in every adoption and they have to occur in the same order in every adoption.

Cutting Old Ties Lawyers and judges refer to the process of cutting the child’s ties to their original parents as a “Termination of Parental Rights” or by the acronym TPR. These terms are just short hand for the process of severing any parental ties someone

A parent’s ties to the child can be severed with the parent’s consent or against their will.

Family Life

THE ADOPTION

may have to the child. Before new family ties can be formed between the adopting parents and the child, all of the old ties must be cut.

If a parent is willing to give up their parental rights voluntarily, they can sign a special document that specifically says the parent voluntarily gives up any rights and obligations to the child and consents to the child being adopted by another family.

If a parent is not willing to walk away and allow their child to be adopted, the hopeful adoptive parents can request a Family Court Judge to take away their parental rights. Before a judge can take away a parent’s rights to their child, the judge must be convinced that there is a legal basis for taking their parental rights and that doing so is best for the child. Currently, there are eleven legal grounds for terminating a parent’s rights to their child and most of them are based on the parent’s actions or lack of action toward the child. Willfully failing to visit or support the child for six months are legal grounds for terminating a parent’s rights to their child. Failing to fix the reasons a child was taken into the custody of the Department of Social Services is another. Having an ongoing drug addiction or mental health condition that keeps the parent from providing a minimal level of care for the child is another commonly used legal ground for terminating the parent’s rights to the child.

Creating New Ties When the rights of the parents to the child have been cut, the child is said to be “free for adoption.” At this point, the child does not legally have a parent. Adoption is the act of creating a legal relationship with the child’s new parents.

To create that new relationship, the couple hoping to adopt the child has to convince a Family Court Judge that making them the child’s new parents is best for the child. If the judge is convinced that the adoption is best for the child, then the legal relationship between the new parents and the child is created and the new family is formed.

The two-step adoption process in South Carolina is designed to give children the best possibility for a good life while protecting the children and the hopeful parents from harm.

While the specific facts and circumstances make each adoption unique, this two-step process is the framework used to decide if the child gets a new start with a new family.

SPARTANBURGEVERYDAY.COM •

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By: Patricia Mabry

DROP!

Family Life

SHOP ‘til YOU

S h o p p i n g …

S h o p p i n g …

S h o p p i n g …

Shopping! All through the

night (and days) every creature was stirring at the 23rd Annual Santa’s Shoppe event. The stockings, hats, shoes, clothes, grills, flags, candles, cupcakes, chocolates, and more were hung on racks, booths, tables, and shelves in hopes that many shoppers would soon be there.

The Junior League of Spartanburg kicked off this four day event at the Memorial Auditorium with Santa’s Soiree on Thursday night, November 10th, 2011. The Soiree included local food, cocktails, live and silent auctions, a diamond give away from Skatell’s Jewelry, and the first opportunity for 234 shoppers to visit over 59 specialty merchant booths deemed as “Shopper’s Paradise.”

Shoppers lined the parking lot, with their “Shop ‘til You Drop” tickets in hand Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, November 10th12th, 2011. Over 4,000 shoppers took advantage of this event to start their holiday shopping and finding unique gifts for those “impossible to buy for loved ones.” Friday night, Nov. 10th, 243 ladies attended the “Ladies only” affair enjoying wine, cheese, and peaceful shopping for the perfect “girls night out!”

Proceeds from the all the Santa’s Shoppe events go to the Junior League of Spartanburg. This organization, comprised of young women, is dedicated to improving their community, and promoting voluntarism. The Junior League provides services in the areas of health, education, the arts, youth services, and historic preservation. Shoppers at this year’s Santa Shoppe not only found some great gifts, but also contributed to an organization that has donated over $1,500,000 to the Spartanburg community and volunteered more than 1,600,000 hours.

Family Life

Building a Better Community Through Successful Kids By: Wanda Mabry

The First Tee of Spartanburg is more than just golf. The First Tee is an international youth program whose mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing learning facilities and programs that promote the development of character, values and healthy activity.

The First Tee of Spartanburg and The First Tee of Greenville serve over 19,000 youth in the Upstate annually.

for an hour with his exhibition. Dennis Walters was appointed as a spokesman and international ambassador for The First Tee in 2009. Dennis and his dog, Bucky, travel to events for The First Tee to spend time demonstrating great golf, having fun with the youth and delivering a message to the youth to never give up on their dreams. The boys and girls who were lucky enough to come to this event had an afternoon filled with fun.

Their favorite “Tricks” were performed

by Bucky who barked out the answers to numerical questions. They also loved Dennis Walters trick shots, especially when he hit a golf ball through fire and his exploding golf ball. After the trickshots exhibition, there was a hot dog cook out for the youth. “Treats” for the cook out were provided by the Kiwanis Club of Spartanburg and Coca Cola of Spartanburg. The youth had a great time, ate good food and heard an inspirational message, all thanks to over 95 sponsors for both of The First Tee chapters. .

(Front, left to right) Todd Whitehead, Tyler Macolly, Richard Burgess and Max Fain (co-captains), Austin Page, Bill Reitmeier (Back, left to right) Brian Kennedy, Josh McMillan, Todd Webber, Scott Cox, Bobby Newman, Andrew Hewitt, Bill Gee, Mark Pike, Kyle Milner, (Absent from photo) Pat Crowley

competing in the two day tournament.

Spartanburg was leading the seven year series over Greenville. At the end of the weekend Spartanburg still held their series lead because this match ended in a tie after 54 holes. Kudos to our Spartanburg team for raising over $28,000 at this event for The First Tee of Spartanburg. The Cyder Cup Weekend has raised over $160,000 in its 8 year history to support life skills and golf education for area youth.

The Cyder Cup golf match were held on Saturday and Sunday at River Falls Plantation with 32 players, 16 from Spartanburg and 16 from Greenville, River Falls Plantation in Duncan, SC hosted the 8th Annual Cyder Cup Weekend on October 28th, 29th and 30th to benefit The First Tee local programs. The Cyder Cup Weekend featured “Tricks and Treats with Dennis Walters” held exclusively for The First Tee youth and invited guests. The event was held Friday afternoon at River Falls Plantation. Over 200 youth attended the event coming from The First Tee of Spartanburg, the YMCA of Spartanburg, Ellen Hines Smith Girls Home, Glenn Springs Academy, Boys and Girls Clubs of the Upstate and the Salvation Army Boys and Girls Clubs.

It was cold, wet and windy on the golf course, but these boys’ and girls’ spirits weren’t dampened by the chilly weather. Dennis Walters, a paraplegic trick-shot golfer kept them enthralled SPARTANBURGEVERYDAY.COM •

23

Pet Health

From Fat & Feeble to Lean & Lively: Tips to Help Your Pet Stay at a Healthy Weight!

By: Donna Lambert, D.V.M.

This is the wonderful, joyful, delicious time of year that I like to call “The Fat Season”, simply because of all the yummy holiday foods we have at every turn! Food is a comfort, especially during the holidays when many of us are eating more for pleasure than for nourishment. As Americans, we have a tendency to show our love for our pets in the form of food also. We’ve all heard the statistics of how over 60% of us are either overweight or obese, but many of us don’t realize that there is a strong parallel between our weight and our pets’ weight. Over 54% of dogs are now considered overweight; cats are not exempt either; over half of all pet cats are overweight or obese. There are many health issues directly related to being overweight in animals: osteoarthritis, kidney disease, heart disease and diabetes, just to name a few. Many of these problems can be prevented by keeping our pets at a healthy weight.

Here are some tips to help you keep your pet at his or her ideal weight.

Fluffy and Mittens are (hopefully) not preparing their own meals, so it is our responsibility to keep them on a healthy diet and give them proper exercise to keep their weight in the normal range. A healthy weight for a dog or cat is often assessed by your veterinarian using a body condition score (BCS). You want to easily be able to feel your pets ribs without feeling a thick layer of fat over them. You will also want to see a “waistline” or tuck at the lower abdomen in front of the back legs.

You don’t want to be able to see the ribs or backbone...this can mean your pet is too thin.

*Take your dog out for walks daily: living in a fenced yard where they can “run around” is NOT exercise! Most dogs need 15-30 minutes of walking briskly every day. Cats need to be stimulated to play using toys, laser lights, etc.

24 •Holiday Tips • Volume 1,Issue 2 • DEC 2011/JAN 2012

*Talk with your veterinarian who will recommend a quality pet food that is ideal for your pet’s age, breed and health. *Feed measured portions of food (NOT free feed: the bowl should not always be full!) *Limit treats and only give them as rewards for good behavior.

Choose healthy treats (low fat, low sodium). *DON’T FEED TABLE SCRAPS!!: this is the number one reason pets become overweight and develop gastrointestinal problems.

We all want our pets to live long, healthy lives and it is our responsibility to them to properly manage their diet and exercise.

When your dog or cat is fit and feeling great, you in turn will be happier! You can read more about managing your pet’s weight at www.petobesityprevention.org.

By: Tina Collier

In today’s uncertain economy, people are looking to cut expenses wherever possible, yet a growing body of evidence suggests that cutting that gym membership is exactly the wrong move if you are cash-strapped.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, adults who don’t exercise have higher medical costs than active adults who do, and the costs increase with age. To put it in perspective, Tina Collier, owner of two Curves fitness centers in Spartanburg and Duncan says, “for every dollar you spend on wellness, you save as much as five dollars on illness.

Curves is stepping up to help. They have partnered with major health insurance providers who see huge financial benefits in wellness programs, and now offer incentives to their members. In fact, many are offering free Curves memberships.

Curves has also patented CurvesSmart, a computerized technology to incentivize the member to workout harder and then get feedback at the end. In January, they will officially roll out Curves Complete, an all inclusive weight management and exercise program.

Health & Wellness

EXERCISE KEEPS MONEY IN YOUR WALLET

Everyone knows that the human body thrives on regular exercise, and that staying fit and maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce the risks for various cancers (by as much as 60 percent), diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, and osteoporosis, to name a few. Exercise pays you back double. In fact, “each hour of exercise adds two more to your life,” adds Collier.

Curves works every major muscle group with a complete 30 minute workout. This includes the all important strength (resistance) training with cardio activity done on safe and effective machines designed for women. Our goal at all Curves – and there are many locally to choose from – is to strengthen women, physically and mentally in a supportive environment where our ages range from early teens to elderly, with our median age at around 55. One of our many success stories is Mary Pritchard in Duncan, who has been coming for years. Mrs. Pritchard had to have a leg amputated due to diabetes and still comes regularly every week.

Exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight can save not only your life but your money as well. Your health is your most precious asset, and not taking care of it is going to cost you more in the long run.

SPARTANBURGEVERYDAY.COM •

25

Health & Wellness

Surgery With Less Pain

& Faster Recovery

- It Can Happen!

Upon first hearing the term robotic surgery, many have the following reaction: You mean a robot performs my surgery? Of course, the answer is no.

By Christophe L. Nguyen, M.D., F.A.C.S., Surgical Oncology at Gibbs Cancer Center

Wouldn’t it be nice to have surgery with only the smallest amount of pain possible, a speedier recovery and return to our normal activities in the shortest time the procedure would allow?

Does that sound like the content of a dream, a fantasy?

Not too long ago, it was. But, today, surgery is vastly different. Many procedures are performed robotically.

This amazing breakthrough in technology is rapidly moving into many surgical areas. Allow me to share with you what this is all about and what it means to the patient.

First of all, robotic surgery is a procedure more minimally invasive to the patient. Compared to traditional “open” surgery, the same operation is performed using smaller incisions, which mean less pain and a faster recovery for patients. In other words, the same surgery with less trauma to the body.

Imagine the comforting feeling of knowing your surgery will not be saddled with the greater pain and longer recovery that used to be commonplace with your procedure.

For instance, you may know a friend or relative who had a hysterectomy 10 or 20 years ago and recall the length of the hospital stay and slow recovery.

This is exactly the type of procedure robotic surgery has reformed, greatly reducing the pain and recovery time.

How the robot works The da Vinci® robotic system is actually a virtual extension of the surgeon’s eyes and hands into the surgical site, which translates into precise movements of the tiny instruments, all seen from within using a 3D, highdefinition vision system.

Sitting at a console, the surgeon uses his or her hands and feet (via special foot pedals) to guide the four robotic arms and camera. The robot is controlled by the surgeon at all times and never moves on its own. The robotic instruments gain access to the surgical site through small incisions (5-12 mm) and larger incisions are avoided.

For example, traditional lung cancer surgery is performed through a large incision on the side of the chest where muscles and ribs are spread. Using the robot, surgeons can use small incisions without rib trauma to complete the same operation.

The potential benefits are: • Significantly less pain • Less blood loss and need for blood transfusions • Less risk of infection • Shorter hospitalization • Less scarring • Faster return to normal, daily activities • Uterine preservation (myo- mectomy)

26 •Holiday Tips • Volume 1,Issue 2 • DEC 2011/JAN 2012

Health & Wellness

Therefore, if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a condition that may require surgery, consider the robotic alternative to both traditional open surgery and conventional laparoscopy. There are now robotic options in a growing number of areas.

Many procedures available Robotic surgeries are now performed on: • Heart • Lung • Prostate • Kidney • Uterus (both gynecologic and onco- logic) Spartanburg Regional’s robotic team includes sixteen surgeons, two robots and an extensive number of operating room staff.

The surgeons are: • Cardiothoracic: Steve Leyland, M.D. • Thoracic Surgery: Christophe L. Nguyen, M.D. • Gynecology: Dean E. Davis, M.D.; Leavon Eastin, M.D.; Ashley Fowler, M.D.: Robert Goodlett, M.D.; Bang Giep, M.D.; Hoang Giep, M.D.; Susan A. Marik, M.D.; Bobby Pereyo, M.D.; Gordon Sherard, M.D.; Aaron Toler, M.D. • Gynecologic Oncology: James Hunter, IV, M.D. • Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility: John E. Nichols, Jr. M.D. • Urology: Paul Ellis, M.D. and Gerald Hull, M.D. Experience counts: Sound advice for any surgery is to seek surgeons with the most experience in your procedure. Robotic surgery is no different.

As the very latest in surgical technology, robotic surgery and its patient outcomes can mean the very fastest return possible to your family and routine activities.

Surgery is continually evolving in a positive direction with minimally invasive, robotic procedures, and a faster, less painful recovery has been experienced and welcomed by

many patients. As with all medical operations, it’s important to talk to your doctor to find out if you’re a candidate for robotic surgery.

For more information about robotic surgery at Spartanburg Regional, please visit spartanburgregional.com/roboticsurgery or call 864-560-6567.

Spartanburg Regional has the most experienced robotics team in South Carolina and continues to lead the way in comprehensive robotic surgery for patients in the Southeast having performed more than 2,000 surgeries since 2007. Our surgeons were the first in the Southeast to perform coronary beating-heart surgery, the first in South Carolina to successfully complete a robotic lobectomy for lung cancer, and the first in the Upstate to perform robotic prostatectomy, hysterectomy and myomectomy.

In addition, Spartanburg Regional Institute for Robotic Surgery is also a training site for clinical observation where other surgeons may experience the robotic system.

SPARTANBURGEVERYDAY.COM •

27

Health & Wellness

Q-Are there Caring Transitions in other locations?

A: Caring Transitions is a National Franchise with many locations.

There are three or four in South Carolina.

Q-Do you help families investigate short-term and long-term care options for their loved ones?

A: I can if that is one of the services the family needs. I visit many different communities and gather information about what they offer. I can take specifics that an individual needs along with the “must haves” and help them narrow their search.

My name is Teena Lawson and I am the owner of the local Caring Transitions. After spending 45 years in Lyman, I’ve seen many families including my own, struggle during some of life’s most stressful and overwhelming times, such as a divorce, a life changing illness, the death of a loved one or the changing needs of an aging parent. This compelled me to start Caring Transitions, a business that provides help to Seniors and their families needing assistance coping with senior moving, downsizing and estate sales. With a background in Health Care and Criminal Justice and special training in Aging/Dementia, you can be assured that we will act as your onsite advocate, keeping your family’s best interests at heart. Our focus is to minimize your stress and maximize your returns while helping you through a difficult time in your family’s life. Our compassionate employees are carefully chosen to meet your specific wants and needs.

Not only am I passionate about serving my clients, but I am also passionate about serving my community. As a respected member of the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce, National Association of Professional Women, Upstate Senior Network, the Alzheimer’s Association and the American Psychological Association, I truly enjoy helping people.

Caring Transitions serves the Gaffney, Spartanburg, Inman, Landrum and Laurens areas.

I look forward to meeting you soon!

Sincerely,

Teena Lawson, Owner Office: 864-949-0115 Fax: 864-949-9085 Cell: 864-580-0626

Q-Do you work with families that have special needs children or families going through a divorce?

A: I have not had the opportunity to work with special needs but I do work with some going through a divorce.

Q- Do you help “snow birds,” seniors who transition from summer homes to winter homes each year?

A: I work with other franchisees on some of these.

For example, if they are coming from another state or area in this state, we work to coordinate the transition to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Q-I can see how many years in healthcare field would help you with caring for families, but how does your background in criminal justice help you with transiting individuals?

A: My background in Criminal Justice has made me security conscious.

Many Senior’s still live in their homes and just want to de-clutter or downsize, so I try to recognize when there might be a need for some type of security in their home, whether it be a security system or an alert type of device in case there is an emergency and the person can’t get to a phone. At that point I try to get them in touch with the best company for their situation. There are many services out there, most are great, but unfortunately some prey on seniors…I like to do a little research for them to make sure the products and services they need come from a legitimate and reputable company.

Q-What do you find in most cases is the most stressful part on the family when transiting?

A: The overwhelming amount of “stuff ” that can be accumulated over time. Most families find that their parents need to move rather quickly. Trying to find a community that fits Trash Removal • Carpet Cleaning their needs and pack a house in a limited time frame (usually a weekend) can be very stressful. My company can take that Shipping • Recycling stress away so all they have to do is concentrate on spending Moving Services • Auction Services quality time with their family.

Our Services Painting • De-Cluttering

Q-I know each case is different, but what are some details that most families overlook when transiting?

A: The size of the space they are moving to as opposed to the House Cleaning • Referral Sources space they are moving from. It is natural for us to want to take Estate Sales • Resettling everything when we downsize. The hardest part is realizing that everything isn’t going to fit and figuring out what to do By: Joy Mabry with it…the “letting go” is the hardest part. I can take a home’s floor plan and marry it with one from a senior community and “stage” Q- Teena, what prompted you to start Caring Transitions?

A: I have always wanted to own my own company and have worked in the furniture for them so it is easier to see what they are working with. the senior industry for the past 6 years. I lost my mom a year and a half ago and shortly after that I received an email about Caring Transitions. Q-What kind of organizations do you work with when helping a family The concept was very appealing to me so I hopped a plane and flew to make a successful transition?

Cincinnati for a meet, greet and info day. On the way back to the hotel A: If using a moving company, I like to use one that is familiar with sethat evening I looked up at the sky and said “Okay guys, if this is what nior moves and the articles that are commonly moved with them, such I am supposed to do find a way to let me know.” To my left I noticed a as antiques. rainbow, it was a very clear day by the way, and when I got back to my Q-I know that the best part of my job is getting to know caring individhotel room, on the heat unit was a ladybug…2 of my mom’s favorite uals in the community, what is the best part about your job (passion)? things. I thought…ok, this is it then. And Mom’s Legacy, L.L.C., D.B.A. A: The people and their stories; knowing I can make a positive difference out of a negative situation.

Caring Transitions of Lyman was born.

Donations to Non-Profit Organizations Senior Moving • Sorting

28 •Holiday Tips • Volume 1,Issue 2 • DEC 2011/JAN 2012

Stage 4.

I was already at Did I even have

a shot at survival?

Jerry Stevens, lymphoma survivor

Jerry Stevens had been battling a weak heart for years; he didn’t think he had the strength to face cancer treatment, too. But once he found out Gibbs treats more advanced cancers than any hospital in the Upstate, he knew he had a good shot. Gibbs attacked his lymphoma aggressively while protecting his weakened heart. He aced it.

He got world-class treatment without leaving home.

Gibbs treated me right, and right here. That’s why I’m still here.

101 East Wood Street • Spartanburg SC 29303 • 864.560.6000 • gibbscancercenter.com