Lexington Woman Volume 9 No. 4 2015

VOL 9, NO 4

COMPLIMENTARY

CELEBRATING, MOTIVATING, AND EDUCATING WOMEN

Real

JOE WALKER

OF MARCO’S PIZZA

KEEPING KOLTEN’S MEMORY ALIVE

FAMOUS

SWEETGRASS

BASKETS

BY ANGELA

STONEWORTH

OF LEXINGTON MEDICAL CENTER Cayce, Chapin, Lexington, Irmo, Lake Murray, West Columbia, & White Knoll

TM

In this Issue

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www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Lori Samples Duncan loriduncan86@gmail.com

MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES Cathy Williams cw@woman2woman.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Beth McCrary Patti Kimsey Lori Samples Duncan Patti McGrath Briana Davis, DVM

From the Editor 2

Events 3

What’s Happening?

Health & Wellness GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Lisa Ashworth woman2womanlisa@gmail.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

Clark Berry Photography Tanya Waller Photography

INFORMATION

info@lexingtonwomanonline.com

Celebrating the Survivor

Say Goodbye to Summer but Not in You! 18 Keeping Kolten’s Memory Alive to Great People!

Professional

24 Retirement Living that Stands the Test of Time

4

Women of Lexington Medical: Karen Longstreet

6

Women of Lexington Medical: Patrice Smith

Pets

8

3-D Mammogrphy Helps Detect Breast Cancer Earlier

Recipes

Let’s Talk!

28 Meet Joe Walker 27 Pet Safety: Canine Influenza 30 Taco Pie 31 Summer Spinach Salad

12 The Ashby Chronicle: The Greatest Around Town Prayer is Patience 34 Lexington One Board Member Participates in SCSBA 15 The Woman Behind DNA BasketBoardmenship Institute

Business & Web Directory 35 Contact our Advertisers

Personal Note

36 Baseball and Memories!

Find us on facebook!

Woman 2 Woman Media, LLC (803) 785-4475 104 Pine Tree Drive Lexington, SC 29073

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. © 2014

Savor the last days of

SUMMER! www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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From The Editor

s Summer is coming to an end, our supply of amazing people and stories from the community never does!

This issue is great because it not only features some remarkable women, but some remarkable men and even children as well. Read the stories of great talent, great courage, and great places between the covers of this issue. Be inspired by Angela Stoneworth’s talent, cry with the parents of Kolten Johnson, who want to make a difference in the world, and learn more about the ever changing world of medical technology with the most trusted hospital around, Lexington Medical.

Life is always changing, and even as I write this to you I am amazed at how fast the time has flown by this year. Half of 2015 is already over, and what a year it has been! As Summer is coming to a close, remember to make the best of it while it is here. Celebrate this hot but enjoyable season by spending some time outside with your family, go to another cookout, take your children to the water to cool off, and just enjoy some time with the people that you love while you have all these opportunities available!

I always want to offer a reminder that the businesses within Lexington Woman Magazine have made a commitment to you, the reader, to always offer quality products and services to the people of this community. Please visit them online or in their store and let them know where you heard about them. It is through their support that LWM is able to bring you the stories of real Lexington Women in every single issue.

As always I hope you enjoy this issue. If you would like to send us a story or suggest someone you feel should be featured in Lexington Woman Magazine, please feel free to email me personally at loriduncan86@gmail.com.

God Bless and See you soon!

Your friend,

Lori Samples Duncan

Isaiah 40:31

But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Events

WHAT’S

Happening IN LEXINGTON?

South Carolina Peanut Party August 7 - 8, 2015 Pelion Community Center

You gotta love a town that blesses the pots it uses to boil up to 130 bushels of peanuts. At the Pelion Peanut Party, a Peanut Princess is crowned, peanut art is displayed, and yes, a Peanut Butter Sandwich Eating Contest is held.

Live music, arts and crafts, softball tournament, car show, parade, and carnival are part of the menu, but South Carolina’s official snack food, boiled peanuts, are the reigning element. The Pelion Peanut Party is steered by the Pelion Ruritan Club, members of which keep those peanut pots boiling. Naturally the festivities are held in August, when those peanuts are at their peak. S-L-U-R-P! www.scpelionpeanutparty.com

Wild Summer’s Nite Auction & Wild Game Feast August 8, 2015 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Seawell’s Catering Join us for our annual Wild Summer’s Nite Auction & Wild Game Feast benefiting the South Carolina Wildlife Federation. To a crowd of over 300 people, we will be auctioning off just about anything anyone could ever want!

There are beautiful works of art; jewelry; guided birding and wildlife-watching trips; hunting and fishing excursions, both in South Carolina and other amazing places; guided river and kayak tours; hunting and fishing equipment; and much more. Event will include live & silent auctions, prize drawings & games, wild game feast, open bar, and much more! We look forward to seeing you there! www.scwf.org

Chapin Labor Day Festival September 5 - 7, 2015 Chapin, SC

Martha’s Market September 12, 2015 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Union United Methodist Church Family Ministry Center Fourth annual Martha’s Market featuring 60+ vendors selling crafts, jewelry, art, homemade goods, soaps, boutique clothes, scarfs, etc. will be held Saturday, September 12 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Union United Methodist Church Family Ministry Center, 7582 Woodrow Street, Irmo, SC 29063. Free event! Free kids Activities!!

Bring canned ravioli, individually packaged fruit cups, oatmeal packets, or juice boxes and receive a FREE shopping bag to help benefit the Snack Pack program. Breakfast and lunch may be purchased to benefit church missions. More information? Go to: www.facebook.com/marthasmarketuumcirmo or email us: marthasmarketuumc@gmail.com. ‘Like’ us on Facebook. www.facebook.com/marthasmarketuumcirmo

The Women’s Ministry Fall Conference September 18 - 19, 2015 First Baptist Church of Lexington

The Women’s Ministry of First Baptist Church of Lexington invites you to their Fall Conference for Ladies, high school age and older. The conference, “Escaping the Stress Trap: Finding Jesus as the Anchor of Our Souls,” will feature nationally known speaker and author, Mary Southerland, of Girlfriends in God ministry. The conference will be September 18-19, 2015, at the Church. Friday evening will begin at 7 p.m. for worship, encouragement, and fellowship; Saturday’s schedule is 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. and will include continental breakfast, worship, a message from Mary, two breakout sessions, and lunch. Registration is required and ends Saturday, September 13. The cost for the two day event is $20. For questions call the church at (803) 957 - 0686. For registration and additional information, please visit the website:

Irmo Okra Strut Festival September 25 - 26, 2015 Irmo Community Park

The festivities kick off Friday with the Okra Strut Charity Golf Tournament and conclude with a Friday Night Street Dance. The street dance draws in music lovers from all over the area.

Midway through the night, the Okra Eating Contest takes place where law enforcement officers compete for this most prestigious title!

Saturday at 9:30 am, the Okra Strut parade begins with around 100 units participating each year. The festival opens at 10 AM. From corndogs,to the famous “fried okra” there is something for everyone. The day is filled with arts & crafts exhibits, non-profit and business exhibits, amusements & games, dunkin’ booth, kids’ okra-eating contest, puppet shows, portraits with “Okra Man,” and much, much more. www. irmookrastrut.com

Congaree Bluegrass Festival October 3, 2015 11:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Granby Gardens Park

Still in its infancy in its third year, the Congaree Bluegrass Festival nevertheless has drawn hundreds of music fans to Cayce’s Granby Gardens Park. Scheduled for the first Saturday in October, the Congaree Bluegrass Festival is named for the river so important in Cayce’s development.

Food vendors are on the premises; alcohol isn’t allowed. www.cityofcayce-sc.gov/festivals.asp

www.fblex.org

If it’s wholesome family fun you want, it’s here every Labor Day weekend in Chapin, “The Capital of Lake Murray.” The 5K Walk/Run in Crooked Creek Park benefits Meals on Wheels.

There’s also a gospel concert, an after-church picnic, a model train display, and barbecue. The festival boasts one of South Carolina’s biggest parades, as well as a “Chapin Idol” talent contest.

Look for a book sale, children’s carnival, dunking booth, and truck show. For the Midlands, it’s summer’s last hurrah, and a chance to see your favorite politicians. www.chapinsc.com www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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L A D I E S O F L E X I N G TO N M E D I C A L

KAREN LONGSTREET

By Patti Kimsey Photos By Tanya Waller

Karen Longstreet became interested in becoming a nurse when, at 19 years old, she was involved in a horrible car accident. She was removed from the scene of the accident by helicopter and own to a hospital where she received more than 100 stitches in her face. Since the doctors were concerned about possible head trauma, she was unable to receive pain medication, so she was fully alert as they stitched her face and saved her eye.

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

& Wellness L A D I E S O F L E X I N G T O N M EHealth DIC AL

“I was scared to death and my parents had not made it to the hospital yet,” she remembers. “Then one particular operating room nurse said, ‘I am so excited that you called me in because I really needed the overtime pay.’ I decided at that moment, once I recovered, to enroll in nursing school and demonstrate mercy and compassion for my patients.”

Karen has now been a nurse for 26 years and has served as a staff registered nurse (RN) at Lexington Medical Center (LMC) since 2007.

“I served on the oncology floor at LMC for two years and currently am serving my sixth year in the infusion clinic,” she says.

“While providing blood transfusions, IV antibiotic services and other intravenous procedures, I educate patients and family members about their treatment plan during their visit to the clinic. Our infusion team treats many patients in a day at the clinic, assessing each one from head to toe,” Karen explains.

Karen loves working at LMC, describing the environment as a home away from home. “I enjoy the cleanliness, freshness, and hospitality when I walk in the front doors,” she smiles.

“But, I like that every day presents a new opportunity, in my role as a nurse, to better serve the public. I have found the juggle of wife, mother and nurse well worth the reward of providing needed health care to patients.”

Her choice to become a nurse was the right career choice for Karen. “I see the patient as my grandmother, grandfather, mother, brother, sister or child. I know when patients are at the hospital, they are vulnerable and not feeling well. They are not with me because they want to be, but unfortunately are sick and need my help. I garner the opportunity to

put patients at ease when they are nervous and I help explain things to them. I can see this immediately sets them at ease.”

“I welcome building rapport with the patients I treat on a regular basis,” Karen continues. “It is such an honor, when they confide in me about their illness, their family, and the effects of their ailment and how they are working through their condition. I find that some patients enjoy poking fun at me and how it provides them some comic relief during difficult circumstances. In my career as a nurse, I have found that humor in the midst of treating an illness or pain can bring a much needed lift to a patient’s spirit.

It gives me great satisfaction when patients are well enough to return home after their treatment.”

Her caring nature continues past her job and into her volunteer work outside the hospital.

She and her husband founded the Emma Longstreet Foundation after their daughter was killed in 2012 by a drunk driver. “We educate the local area of the horrors and life changing effects of driving under the influence of alcohol. Our goal is to have zero fatalities, related to DUI, in Lexington County,” she explains. “I make myself available to Lexington Police Department for promoting the department’s efforts and support their goals and public safety drives to make a safer community in the town of Lexington.”

In addition, she serves as a Lexington County member of MADD, supporting their efforts on a state and national level. “MADD helps families, like ours, during the early days of a tragedy and during the court hearings. They have publicly assisted efforts for the passage of ‘Emma’s Law’ in South Carolina. I have found that driving is not a right, but a privilege. DUI has a cure, while cancer does not!”

L A D I E S O F L E X I N G TO N M E D I C A L

Around the Town

PATRICE SMITH

By Patti McGrath Photos By Tanya Waller

Patrice Smith loves being able to help people and it shows both in her work at Lexington Medical Center (LMC) and in her volunteer work with Dream Riders. Patrice has worked at LMC since 1998. She was a practice manager until 2008 before she began her current position as an internal auditor. As an internal auditor she analyzes and audits LMC systems of internal controls over physician practices and Urgent Cares.

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

L A D I E S O F L E X I N G TO N M E D I C A L

“I like the friendly, family atmosphere at LMC where we work together as a team,” Patrice says. “I love my work because I am able to interact with people and help solve problems. It’s nice to educate people and help them in their positons. I find the work interesting because I am able to learn all aspects of the health care field.”

Interacting with people and helping people isn’t limited to her work at LMC. She enjoys using the skills in her volunteer work with Dream riders as well.

“Dream Riders is a non-profit organization that provides children and adults with special needs therapeutic equestrian riding lessons,” Patrice explains. “Jennifer Stoudemire (instructor) and her parents Lewis and Corky Dyer started this program in 1998. They had eight riders with mental disabilities at that time. Over the years the program has expanded with the support of the community and the Dyer family. There are thirty riders per week with special needs. Each rider is assessed before acceptance into the program and they all have individual goals that are reviewed on a monthly basis by the instructor. The instructor along with the volunteers helps accomplish each goal for the rider.”

Patrice has been involved in the program since 1998. “When volunteering for a lesson, there is a leader of the horse and at least one side walker that walks beside the horse and assists the rider. I normally

assist the riders and am actively involved in their riding lesson. I enjoy the interaction with the riders and watching their improvement over the lessons,” Patrice continues.

She finds the program to be rewarding not only for the riders but for herself. “I have seen children who could not walk when starting the program begin to walk.

I have seen some of the riders who wore braces on their legs and no longer need braces for support. I have seen emotionally challenged children with great big smiles on their faces when they pull up for their lesson,” Patrice pauses and smiles.

“It is as much therapy for me and other volunteers as it is for the riders. I am truly blessed to be a part of this wonderful program and consider it a part of my life.

It is truly God’s blessing when arriving at a lesson and being welcomed with great big smiles and unconditional love.”

Patrice knows how fortunate she is to have a wonderful husband and family that support her in all of her accomplishments.

They must know that she is at her happiest when she is able to put a smile on someone’s face. “There is nothing that fills my heart more than to see the joy and love that is brought to others.”

If you would like more information about Dream Riders please visit their website at www.dreamrider.org.

Health & Wellness

3-D MAMMOGRAPHY HELPS DETECT BREAST CANCER EARLIER Lexington Medical Center is making that job easier.

As part of a comprehensive program for the diagnosis of breast cancer, Lexington Medical Center now offers 3-D mammography. This new breast cancer screening tool uses a low-dose X-ray to create images of the breast that allow doctors to view tissue one millimeter at a time. The technology creates multiple images within seconds that are similar to the “slices” of images in a CT scan.

Dr. Beth Siroty-Smith Imagine trying to find a specific snowball in the middle of a snowstorm, or a needle in a haystack. Not easy, right? For women with dense breast tissue, finding breast cancer in its early stages can be equally challenging. Thankfully, a new tool at

“Lexington Medical Center is excited to offer this leading-edge technology for breast cancer screening,” said Dr. Beth Siroty-Smith, director of Women’s Imaging services for Lexington Radiology Associates at Lexington Medical Center.

“3-D mammography reduces difficulties in identifying abnormalities in women with denser breast tissue and results in increased cancer detection.”

3-D mammography, also known as digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), is currently

recommended for women who are having their first screening mammogram or who have dense breast tissue.

The term “dense breasts” refers to the appearance of breast tissue on a mammogram. Dense breast tissue appears as a solid white area, which makes it difficult to see through. Non-dense breast tissue appears dark and transparent.

Dense breast tissue can make it more difficult to interpret a mammogram, since cancer and dense breast tissue both appear white on a mammogram. Very dense breasts may increase the risk that cancer won’t be detected on a mammogram.

Studies in The Journal of The American Medical Association have shown that 3-D mammography increases breast cancer detection, and reduces false positives and unnecessary callbacks for patients with dense breast tissue.

Available since this past spring, Lexington Medical Center was the first facility in the Midlands to offer this technology. Women

The picture on the left shows a 2-D mammography image of the breast. The rest of the pictures show images of the same breast using 3-D mammography. The suspicious area in the breast is much easier to see in the 3-D images. Using this methodology, doctors can identify breast cancer earlier and easier in women with dense breast tissue.

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

who have completed a 3-D mammography screening at Lexington Medical Center also report that the procedure is less painful and more tolerable than the traditional 2-D mammogram.

The FDA-approved procedure uses the same type of equipment as a 2-D mammogram and a similar dose of radiation.

Women who have questions about whether or not they should receive a 3-D mammogram should talk to their doctor.

You may be more likely to have dense breasts if you’re younger. Breast tissue tends to become less dense as you age, although some women have dense breast tissue at any age. Premenopausal women and women who take hormone therapy for menopause are also more likely to have dense breast tissue.

Women who are having a first screening mammogram or whose doctors have

told them they have dense breast tissue may schedule a 3-D mammogram at Lexington Medical Center’s Women’s Imaging facility on the main hospital campus in West Columbia. Women’s Imaging will nearly double the number of daily scheduling slots in an effort to accommodate all interested women. Evening and weekend hours will also soon be available. To schedule an appointment, please call (803) 791-2486.

In addition to being an American College of Radiology Breast Imaging Center of Excellence, Lexington Medical Center’s breast program has accreditation from the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers and the cancer program has accreditation with commendation by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer.

LEXINGTON MEDICAL CENTER IS EXCITED TO OFFER THIS LEADING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY FOR BREAST CANCER SCREENING.

For more information, visit LexMed.com.

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He provides a full range of plastic surgery services, including surgical and non-surgical aesthetic facial rejuvenation, breast and body enhancement, as well as a full spectrum of breast reconstruction options.

A Lexington Medical Center Physician Practice

803.936.7045 LexPlasticSurgery.com

• Lexington Medical Park 1 • 2728 Sunset Boulevard, Suite 105 • West Columbia, SC 29169 www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Let’s Talk

THE ASHBY CHRONICLE:

The Greatest Prayer is Patience

photo by Clark Berry Photography

by Ashby Jones

I

finally tried yoga. It’s not that I have not known about yoga, or that I object to yoga in any way. My reluctance has been the number of times yoga has been suggested.

Ashby Jones Mostly my sister, many times it has been Becky, and once . . . a Judge encouraged me to consider yoga. Instead of realizing these folks want me to experience something calming and beautiful, I concluded they all think I am a nervous ball of atrophied-muscle psychosis.

And I don’t need yoga to remind me of that.

I got there too early, so I took that opportunity to respond to 18 emails and text messages from my cell phone, which is like yoga “cocktail hour.” I took my shoes off and socks off like the lady said, and she showed me this room with rolled up mats and flowery cushions, foam block things, and belts. She told me to pick my favorite colors. I had not really thought about my favorite colors in a long time.

The problem was I couldn’t collect all my yoga accessories because I was still hanging on to my cell phone. (Maybe this is why my friends want me to try yoga, because I will be forced to put the phone away).

A few women entered the yoga place. We met and they seemed nice. But, then they warned me that because this was my first time trying yoga ever, it would

be tough. My brain automatically went to my lawyer stand-by response to “warnings” about “tough situations”, and I thought Bless her heart, she thinks she can scare me. It was GAME ON. Or, I should say it was yoga GAME ON. Or, I should say yoga GAME OM. Whatever.

It started deceptively simply.

And then a few minutes later I got stuck. Seriously, this lady had me twist until my leg was folded up under me at a weird angle.

She told me the weird angle was not quite weird enough, as my goal was to bend my leg so my shin would be parallel with the top edge of my mat. I was not at all certain I would be able to unfold myself and get back right, or stand up straight, or be able to sit at a desk, or even stand in court and argue.

Ever again.

Somehow, I was able to unfold my parallel leg and move on to

the next yoga phase. This phase is called “People May Say Bad Words Now”. The lady beside me said a few bad words, sort of loudly, and I was embarrassed for her. I pitied her lack of yoga manners. But just as I had mentally banned her to second rate yoga-placement (thus elevating myself) I heard the teacher tell her “it’s ok if you need to say that bad word.” Then the yoga lady said some other surprising things: Be yourself. Just do the best you can. You are safe here. She also said: The Greatest Prayer is Patience.

This reminded me of my mother, who used to have a sign over the sink that said “Lord,

give me patience. But hurry.” I don’t think yoga lady was talking about patience with our children, patience with our co-workers, patience with the cloyingly nice checkout people at the grocery store, or patience with our electronics. She might be talking about being patient with ourselves. This yoga place might be somewhere to go and stop the ticker tape of conversations running through our heads, one place where the To-Do list is left in the car (maybe even the cell phone too).

This might be one place where we finally forgive ourselves for sometimes getting stuck and saying our favorite bad words.

When it was almost over, the yoga lady passed out chilled damp cloths that smelled like lavender. We placed them over our closed eyes. We rested on our mats, cloths over our eyes, and knees bent over pretty pillows. And just as the ticker-tape-to-dolist started up again in my head, I felt yoga lady at my toes. Yoga lady unclenched the balls of my feet with her hands, pulled my legs down to a more restful spot, and reminded me to relax. I had not even realized the To-Do list had begun running again. I did not know my toes were clinched. Now I know why she calls it your yoga practice.

Patience with ourselves must take practice. www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Let’s Talk

The Woman Behind DNA Baskets

G

By Patti McGrath

od had a plan for Angela Stoneworth, she just didn’t know what it was. “My grandmother and I owned a basket stand on Highway 17 in Mount Pleasant. It was at there I learned to perfect my skills as a basket maker. At nineteen, I married a military man and moved away from South Carolina. Long story short, eight years later, I returned with no husband, no money, devastated and confused. I was jobless with two babies and two suitcases. I had no idea what to do,” Angela exclaims. www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Let’s Talk For tunately her mother, Alber tha, took her and her children in, and Angela began making baskets again. Albertha began teaching her daughter the newer styles of baskets they were making at the time and Angela began selling her baskets to the basket makers in the City Market in Charleston.

Times were hard as she began rebuilding her life but she says, “I remember one day I was making baskets in the midst of my devastation and hearing God say to me, ‘Lift up those beautiful hands!’ At that moment, I lifted up my hands and began to praise God and a peace came over me. I knew that my children and I were going to be alright.”

God’s plan for Angela began with making baskets.

Then, in March of 1996, Angela met a man named Darryl Stonewor th. He was from New York, but his mother was born and raised in Mount Pleasant.

He loved visiting with his parents on vacations so he could meet his southern relatives. But, this trip to South Carolina was for a more permanent stay. His mother had taken ill in New York and wanted to come home.

“Darryl came to SC to care for her and his 82 year old father,” Angela recalls.

She met Darryl the day he arrived, because she was the home attendant for his mother Ms. Lucille. “It was on my second and final day as home attendant for Ms. Lucille that destiny intervened.

Darryl’s mother looked at us both and

said, ‘Darryl, do you see Angie?’ He answered, ‘Yes ma’am.’ She said, ‘Angie, do you see my son Darryl?’ I said, ‘Yes ma’am.’ She said, ‘Darryl, she’ll make you a good wife!’ I didn’t know them well and thought it was quite strange for this woman to tell her son that I would make him a good wife. Little did I know that three years later we would be married and raising three beautiful children together.”

Time passed. Angela’s mother, Alber tha, continued selling her baskets in the Charleston City Market and Angela would give her a few baskets to sell for her since she was staying home with her three small children. Then, in December 2008, Albertha had a stroke while selling in the Market, and in May 2009, Darryl was laid off from his job.

Once again, God had a plan. “After talking it over, we decided to begin going to the market for my mother and ourselves. It was at this time Darryl took a real interest in sweetgrass baskets and the rest is history,” Angela states. “In fact, it was Darryl who came up with the business name, DNA Baskets. I thought it stood for Darryl and Angela’s Baskets, but my husband said it also represents the generations of my family that made sweetgrass baskets in America and our ancestral DNA of those who brought this rich cultural heritage from the west coast of Africa.”

So, what is so special about sweetgrass basket making? “Sweetgrass basket making is the oldest living, African, handmade art form in America. It was originally used as a work tool with rice crops in West Africa and here in America during slavery,” Angela explains.

“Sweetgrass baskets soon became an intricate par t of daily plantation living.

They were used for a variety of utilitarian purposes in the work fields of the plantations and were also a vital par t of everyday life in the plantation homes.

They are made from two different leaves, long leaf southern pine needles and palm leaves, and two different types of grasses, bulrush and sweetgrass.”

The best part about DNA Baskets is you don’t have to be in Charleston to buy one. Visit www.dnabaskets.com to shop or please contact them at (843) 442-4599 for their location. They would love to meet you!

Let’s Talk

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Let’s Talk

“I don’t know how useful his story is, but I will continue to tell it.”

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LexinReal gton Woman c e l e b r a te s th e s u r v i vo r i n yo u Women

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Celebrating the Survivor in You!

Keeping Kolten’s

Memory Alive

P

atty Johnson wants all parents to know what she and her husband Kurt did not know until it was too late. On the morning of September 3, 2014, Patty found their 4 year old son Kolten unresponsive in their home. In the midst of her panic, she was able to dial 911 and receive help with administering CPR until the first responders arrived. Upon their arrival, they were able to get a heartbeat and a pulse, which gave Patty hope. Patty would hold onto that hope until they arrived at the hospital.

Kolten was rushed to Trident Hospital in North Charleston where he was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. Patty recalls, “We were floored. I couldn’t understand how a perfectly healthy 4 year old could be in this condition virtually overnight.” Within an hour of arriving at Trident, Kolten was transported to MUSC where he was declared brain dead after all day testing. Kolten’s body had gone into Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) and he passed away shortly before 7:00 am on September 4, 2014.

The Johnsons didn’t know anything about Type 1 Diabetes prior to Kolten’s death. To their knowledge, no one in their family or circle of friends is living with T1D. When Kolten began exhibiting some of the classic signs of T1D in late August, it never occurred to Patty or Kurt because they were unaware of the signs and symptoms. Like many parents, they explained away his excessive thirst to the dog days of late summer in the South. It was only natural that he would frequent the restroom more, because he was drinking so much. And because he was eating more than usual, they were not concerned with his weight loss. Like a typical boy, he played hard and had a hearty appetite.

Looking back now, the first signs of something being seriously wrong with Kolten began less than 24 hours before Patty found him unresponsive. He had complained of not feeling well and had begun vomiting the previous morning. He was able to eat some crackers and a popsicle and stopped throwing up during the day. When he went to bed around 8:00 pm that evening, he began throwing up again. At this point, the Johnsons made a decision to take him to the doctor the next day.

Tragically, Kolten never made the 10:30 am appointment with his pediatrician. That is just how quickly the onset of Type 1 Diabe-

TEAM KOLTEN tes occurs and can quickly become a dire situation. Type 1 Diabetes often presents as the flu, a stomach bug, or strep throat and is easily missed by parents and even the medical community.

After Kolten passed away, Patty and Kurt felt they needed to get their younger son tested for Type 1 Diabetes. Kale is now enrolled in the Trial Net program that screens for Type 1 Diabetes as will his new sibling that is due in July. Trial Net is comprised of an international network of researchers who are exploring ways to prevent, delay and reverse the progression of type 1 diabetes. It was through Trial Net that the Johnsons heard about JDRF. JDRF (formerly known as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) is the largest charitable funder of Type 1 Diabetes research and also one of the largest sources of support for newly diagnosed families.

Since connecting with JDRF, Patty and Kurt have found a renewed source of hope. “The wonderful people at MUSC gave us some information about the JDRF. I felt very strongly that I needed to focus on something to keep me sane. I didn’t jump right into it. I was and still am very much grieving. After a couple of months, I started to think about participating in the JDRF walk. I felt it necessary to share Kolten’s story to that community. If anyone

was going to understand, it would be them.”

In March of 2015, the Johnson’s formed Team Kolten and participated in the Charleston JDRF Walk to Cure held annually on Daniel Island. The children’s play area at the walk was named, “Kolten’s Korner” and dedicated in his memory. “We felt so blessed to have so many people not only walk, but donate in Kolten’s honor. It will always amaze me just how good people are. We had such an outpouring of support after he died, and that support continued months later at the walk. I do believe that we have made people aware of this disease that wouldn’t have been.”

Realizing that awareness is key, Patty and Kurt have decided to share Kolten’s story to help save lives. “I don’t know how much Kolten’s story can help anyone else, but I don’t want him to have died in vain. If just one family can prevent this from happening by knowing the signs (no matter how faint they may be), then he didn’t die in vain. I will always wonder if I had seen them for what they were, would Kolten be alive. If I had taken him to the doctor when he started drinking a lot, would he be alive. I’ll never know the answer to these questions, but maybe someone won’t ever have to ask them. It is extremely hard for me to talk about him and how he died, but I have to. I feel that by not talking about it, I’m not honoring his life and death. He existed. He www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

19

Let’s Talk matters. If I tried to put it behind me without sharing, I just don’t feel like I’m honoring him.

This is my way of keeping his memory alive.”

Patty thinks the best way to inform parents about Type 1 Diabetes is during the early check-ups after birth. “There is no need to scare parents, but like every other life threatening disease, we as parents, should be informed. There should be a check list at the

time of check-ups. There should also be testing at least once a year. It’s not difficult, and as I now know, could save lives. We are told about food allergies, why not this?”

Patty also feels it’s important that parents be keenly aware of the signs and symptoms of T1D and not dismiss them. “Kolten was a very active child. He was in preschool the year

before and the year he died. He played T-ball in the spring of 2014. He took swimming lessons the whole month of June. He also played soccer for a couple of weeks right before he died.

In fact, his first soccer game was supposed to be that Tuesday night that he got sick. Not to mention a whole summer of swimming, and playing outside. I feel the need to share this because these are all reasons we weren’t too concerned about his increased thirst. It being August in the South, it was also very hot. That being said, now knowing what I know, any parent should have an increased concern if their child does show this sign.”

For now, the Johnsons are still very much grieving the loss of their son and trying to find a new normal for their lives. They want to stay involved with JDRF and be a part of finding a cure in Kolten’s memory and for their other children. “Everything about Kolten is important to me. I don’t know how useful his story is, but I will continue to tell it. I also don’t know what it’s like to have a child live with Type 1 Diabetes. I do know what it’s like to have a child die from it. From what I’ve read and heard, it’s an extremely hard disease to live with. Children shouldn’t have to live with this.

It’s horrible. I really don’t know why I don’t hear about it as much as other diseases. I pray for a cure.”

PATTY AND KURT Warning signs of T1D may occur suddenly and can include: • Extreme thirst • Frequent urination • Drowsiness or lethargy • Increased appetite • Sudden weight loss • Sudden vision changes • Sugar in the urine • Fruity odor on the breath • Heavy or labored breathing • Stupor or unconsciousness *source www.jdrf.org For more information about Type 1 Diabetes and getting involved with JDRF, visit www.jdrf.org For more information about Trial Net, visit www.diabetestrialnet.org Beth McCrary is a freelance writer living in Lexington, SC who is passionate about raising awareness of Type 1 Diabetes. She serves as the Advocacy Team Chair for the JDRF Palmetto Chapter and is mom to Hannah, T1D Warrior since 8/21/08.

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Retirement Living That Stands The Test Of Time A retirement community is trusted when it keeps promises by following its mission.

The Columbia Presbyterian Community, part of five not-for-profit Presbyterian Communities of South Carolina (PCSC) has reliably served older adults in the Midland’s since 1986. One hallmark of standing the test of time is the longevity of experienced employees who embrace the mission of enriching the quality of life of residents. The community’s full time chaplain has served over 19 years and recently they celebrated a certified nursing assistant’s 18 years of service.

PCSC is committed to innovative programming and ser vices to meet the expectations of today’s mature adults.

Studies show that choosing comprehensive retirement living at a younger age can add productive years to your life. Witness the resident who moved to an independent living apar tment at age 81 and remained there for 21 years until she recently passed away at 102. A true inspiration for standing 24

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the test of time!

“For 27 years, I have counseled older adults and their families about the benefits of retirement living and when it is best to consider making a move,” said Sales Director, Sandy Olson.

Often, as we discuss the advantages of maintenance free living, life enrichment oppor tunities, and wellness programs, people begin to realize that

Real Women

remaining at home truly is not the best choice.

When an eighty year old who is still active and independent tells me “I’m not ready for this yet,” I wonder what it is they aren’t ready for. Many times it relates to perceptions and fears developed in childhood from visiting relatives in nursing homes. A visit to experience the Columbia Communi-

ty’s vibrant living oppor tunities helps prospective residents understand the difference and dispel myths. Other times, it’s the shear dread of moving. At our community, prospective residents benefit from resources and suppor t throughout the process as we assist them in planning for the move.

Some of the best advice I’ve heard came from a resident who said to a friend, “make the decision to move because you want to, not because you have to. You will feel ver y differently about it.”

Here are some tips to consider when planning a retirement living move.

• Realize the decision impacts more than the person making the move. It can mean peace of mind for family members who worr y about the safety and happiness of a parent. Many residents say the decision to move is their “gift to their children.” Many children say “no greater gift could be given.”

• Explore your options. Not all retirement communities are the same. The

Columbia Presbyterian Retirement Community offers choices that include patio homes, apar tments, licensed assisted living, Medicare cer tified skilled nursing care, home care and outpatient therapy.

• Star t downsizing now. The sooner you star t getting rid of stuff the easier it will be for ever yone involved.

Let’s Talk

Standing the Test of Time

• The longer you wait the harder it is.

It takes strength and stamina to make a move. The longer people put it off the harder it becomes physically and emotionally and the window of oppor tunity slips away. This can result in having to forego active living options or missing out on a first choice in location.

To learn more about downsizing, the benefits of moving “sooner than later” and options in retirement living, contact Sandy Olson at the Columbia Presbyterian Community at 803-227-8342 or email solson@preshomesc.org.

With compassion and a dedication to enriching the quality of life for seniors, The Columbia Presbyterian Community has reliably served the Midlands area since 1986. Longevity, innovation, accountability … those are the marks of a trusted retirement lifestyle that will stand the test of time.

Come discover an active, maintenancefree lifestyle in a community where residents enjoy:

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“LIKE” US!

Stay connected with Lexington Woman on Facebook. Be the first to comment on our content, weigh in on upcoming story ideas, and even share topics you’d like to see us cover! Tell us what you want to see more of!

Interact with our editors! Hear about ways to win GOODIES!

✤ Spacious and well-planned patio homes and apartments ✤ Affordable entrance and monthly service fees ✤ Life enrichment opportunities for travel, new friends, social and cultural events, and volunteering ✤ Security for today … peace of mind for tomorrow

Call to schedule a visit – we’ll even treat you to lunch!

700 DaVega Drive Lexington, SC 29073

(803) 796-8700

PresHomeSC.org

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CANINE INFLUENZA

By Briana Davis, DVM

Canine influenza (AKA dog flu) is a highly contagious viral disease that affects the respiratory tract of dogs. Two strains of canine influenza have currently been identified, H3N8, and H3N2. Signs of dog flu can mimic other common illnesses, such as kennel cough. Canine influenza runs the gamut from mild to severe, and in some cases is fatal. It is easily spread and populations in areas of heavy dog traffic (doggie day care, dog parks, boarding kennels, groomers, animal shelters, animal hospitals) are at most risk. As with most viral diseases, treatment is supportive.

Of the two strains of dog flu that have been identified worldwide, H3N8 has a longer history in the US. H3N8 has been known to cause disease in horses for over 40 years.

It didn’t develop the ability to infect dogs until 2004. It was first noted in a group of racing greyhounds in Florida but soon spread throughout the country. Up until recently H3N8 was thought to be the only strain of canine influenza in the US. H3N2, an avi-

an-derived virus, has been found to be infecting dogs in Asia since 2007. It wasn’t found in the US until this past spring, when there was an outbreak in Chicago. It has been diagnosed in dogs in several other states since then, including Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. There are no documented cases of dog flu infecting people.

Canine influenza is spread among dogs similarly to how the cold is spread among people. Dogs can get it from coming into direct contact with an infected dog, from aerosolization of infected material (ie snot), or from coming into contact with an object that has been in contact with an infected dog (balls, blankets, food/water dishes, etc). The virus can persist in the environment for up to a week. Bleach and other common disinfectants are effective at killing the virus.

Once an animal has been infected with the virus, the flu incubates in their body for 2-5 days. This means they can start shedding (and

therefore spreading) the virus before they even show signs of being ill. Dogs usually become sick 5-7 days after they were infected.

Clinical signs can include fever, malaise, runny nose, sneezing, and coughing. Treatment is supportive and is aimed at keeping the patient comfortable, well hydrated, and free from secondary infections. In most cases patients stop shedding the virus within 7-10 days. There is a vaccine available to protect against the H3N8 strain, but is unknown if this vaccine is also effective against the H3N2 strain. If there is an outbreak in your region, limiting your dog’s access to heavily dog-populated areas is recommended. If your dog develops clinical signs see your veterinarian immediately.

Canine influenza is an ever-changing epidemic. It has multiple routes of transmission which allows it to be easily spread. Regardless of the strain of influenza (H3N8 or H3N2) causing illness, treatment is supportive. Prevention practices are key in limiting the scope of the disease.

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27

Professional

MEET J O E WA L K E R The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 made Joe Walker, a recent graduate of Wofford College, feel called to serve our country in the US Army. He spent four years on active duty serving tours in Iraq fighting enemy insurgents.

By Patti McGrath

Upon leaving the military he decided to come home to Columbia with his wife, Haley. His family had been involved in commercial real estate so it was the logical choice when he began working in commercial real estate as well. But, Joe was interested in the restaurant business.

over 400 employees across 14 locations, and is continuing to grow. “Marco’s Pizza was founded in 1978 by an Italian immigrant named Pasquale “Pat” Giammarco. He opened his first store in Toledo, Ohio and now the company has expanded to more than 600 stores in 36 states,” Joe explains.

“While in the commercial real estate business, I met my current business par tner, Harold Tuma. He had significant restaurant experience,” Joe recalls. “I expressed an interest in getting into the franchise restaurant business because of the organizational similarities between the military and any good franchise model. While researching the Marco’s brand, I quickly knew this was the brand for me. Marco’s resonated with me because of the absolute adherence to all operational standards expected of its franchisees.”

“I want customers to say Marco’s Pizza has the best pizza in town. I cer tainly feel that way. It’s why I chose to invest my life into this brand, it’s why our team members chose to invest their career with us, and we truly believe it. We rely on referrals...having existing customers testify to our quality is much more powerful than us telling you about it,” Joe continues. “Our goal is to consistently provide a quality product at a high level of service, and if we do that, we know the word will spread.”

Joe was right. The Marco’s Pizza franchise was just the right fit. He now has

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

What makes the pizza so good? “Our dough is made in each store each day and our pizzas are made with a propri-

Professional

etary, three-cheese blend that is never frozen and contains no fillers. We spend more money on cheese each week than we do on everything else in the store combined, but it’s certainly worth it because it elevates our pizza to the next level,” he says.

But, you can’t forget the rest of the menu. In addition to pizza, there are subs and salads, as well as wings. “I’d say the tastiest menu item is our CinnaSquares.

My wife doesn’t let me bring them home because she knows either she or I will eat the whole box....they are that good,” Joe laughs. “Pizza is our passion though, particularly our specialty pizzas. Many folks can make a good cheese or pepperoni pizza, but our specialty pies show off our array of fresh ingredients.”

What Joe likes most about his business is being able to give back. “Food is obviously an essential part of all our lives, so to be able to donate meals to organizations that need it is a blessing

for me. We just donated 200 pizzas to feed an entire school, gave 40 pizzas to feed Camp Kemo; it’s those types of opportunities that make me proud to be in the restaurant business,” he says with a smile. “We’re proud to be a part of the community, and look forward to giving back in the form of school fundraisers/ donations, etc. If anyone reading this is part of an organization that relies heavily on donations to operate, please get in touch with one of our Lexington store managers to see how we can help.”

He is thankful for the community that has been so good to him. “I’d like to personally thank all of our Lexington area customers,” Joe states. “Our existing store on Hwy 378 W was recently ranked the #5 Marco’s in the country (out of 617 stores nationally) and our new store in town on Sunset Blvd is off to a great start.”

Be sure to visit one of the 14 convenient locations near you today.

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29

2 Lexington Locations!

851 Highway 378 Lexington, SC (803) 808 - 4048

We

5449 Sunset Blvd Suite D Lexington, SC 29072 (803) 490 - 0123

! r e v Deli ©2009 Marco’s Franchising, LLC 6430(4a)-209

Taco Pie Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef • 1 medium onion, chopped • 1 small can green chilies, chopped • 1 package taco seasoning mix • 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, grated • 1/2 cup Monterrey Jack cheese, grated • 1 pie crust • 2 tomatoes, seeded and diced or sliced • 1 cup iceberg lettuce, shredded • 1 bunch green onions, chopped • Cilantro, if desired, chopped • 1/2 cup sour cream, for topping • 1/2 cup guacamole, for topping • 1/2 cup salsa, for topping • Lime wedges, for garnish

Directions:

Place pie crust in greased pie plate. Set aside. Place beef, chilis and onion in skillet. Cook until beef is done and onions are translucent. Add taco seasoning mix and 2 tbsp. water. Mix well, cook for an additional minute, and remove from heat. Place taco meat mixture into pie crust. Top meat mixture with 1/2 cheeses, then half of the tomato, then the remaining cheese.

Bake at 400 until cheeses are melted and pie crust is golden. Remove from oven and top with lettuce, additional tomato, green onion and fresh Cilantro. Serve with sour cream, guacamole, sour cream and lime wedges.

More recipes like this available at TheFrontPorchGourmet.com 30

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Let’s Recipes Talk

summer

Spinach Salad

{Makes 8 servings}

Salad:

• 6 oz salmon filet • 8 cups chopped spinach • 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes • 1 large avocado, sliced • 1/3 cup crumbled goat or feta cheese • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts

Dressing:

• 3 tbsp white wine vinegar • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard • salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste On both sides of salmon filet, drizzle olive oil and cover with your preferred seasoning. Pan sear to blacken.

Once cooked, cut salmon in one inch strips. In a large bowl, mix spinach, salmon strips, tomatoes, sliced avocado, cheese and nuts. Mix the dressing in a separate bowl, and drizzle over salad. Toss to coat salad evenly.

HEALTH FACTS Per serving: 165 calories 13g fat 5.3g carbohydrates 2.75g fiber 8.5g protein 125mg sodium

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31

Shutters

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Budget Blinds of Lexington, SC is Veteran Owned.

Franchise Opportunities Available. Call 1-800-420-5374 or visit www.budget-blinds-franchise. com. ©2013 Budget Blinds, Inc. All rights reserved. Participating franchises only. Each franchise is independently owned and operated. Budget Blinds is a registered trademark of Budget Blinds, Inc. and a Home Franchise Concepts brand.

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33

Lexington One Board Member Participates in SCSBA Boardmanship Institute Lexington County School District One Board Member Dr. Bradley R. Pitts earned recognition from the South Carolina School Boards Association for achievement in the association’s 2014–2015 Boardmanship Institute.

SCSBA Boardmanship Institute, established in 1982, offers a year-round training curriculum to help board members develop skills and stay abreast of state and national educational issues. Workshops focus on school law, advocacy and legislation, improving board operations, leadership for improving student achievement and other timely topics.

Board members can achieve up to six levels of recognition by earning points that are accrued annually July through June for par ticipation in statewide conferences and training provided onsite in their district.

Dr. Pitts reached Level Two by earning 40 points within one year. Level Two recipients receive a cer tificate and silver pin.

Statewide, SCSBA recognized 154 school board members for reaching one of six levels for the 2014–2015 year.

Dr. Bradley R. Pitts

SCSBA is the statewide professional organization ser ving as a source of information, training and advocacy for the state’s 81 school district boards, county boards and state special schools.

218 Old Chapin Road Lexington, SC 29072 (803) 957 - 3600 Assisted Living • Respite Care and Short Term Stays

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Visit us online at MorningsideOfLexington.com to learn more and schedule a tour.

Business & Web Directory Art and Entertainment Stepping Out Dance Studio......................... 31 steppingoutsc.com

Hotels Wingate by Wyndham............................26, 32 wingatehotels.com

Attorney Kinard & Jones.............................................. 14 kinardandjones.com

Insurance First South Insurance Agency.....................22 fsia.net

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State Farm......................................................26 markrouse.org

Eye Care Envision Family Eye Care............................ 34 envisionfamilyeyecare.com Gyms & Fitness Elite Personal Training.................................22 elitepersonaltrainingstudio.com Health Services Lexington Medical Center........... Back Cover lexmed.com Lexington Plastic Surgery.............................. 9 lexplasticsurgery.com Vital Energy Rehab Center.......................... 11 vitalenergytherapy.com

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Restaurants Marco’s Pizza....................................................30 marcos.com McDonalds.................................................... 31 mcdonalds.com Retirement Communities The Columbia Presbyterian Community‌.24 preshomesc.org Morningside of Lexington..............................34 morningsideoflexington.com

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Tutoring Sylvan Learning Center............................... 11 sylvan.irmo@glc-sylvan.com

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35

A Personal Note

A

nother season of baseball is over for us at the Duncan household. Of my three sons, Colton is our baseball player. Trey started for a few years but chose football when he was eight. Ryan started at five but preferred soccer. Colton began his baseball journey when he was four.

At the Lexington YMCA, it was a fun experience. For his five-year-old season, we moved to Lexington Recreation and so began the next seven years of baseball. Colton loves the game of baseball. He loves his teammates and coaches. He will be the first one to tell you who the “good guys” are (in his humble opinion, of course!) He is that guy who just loves the game. No doubt he will be the kind of man who plays for our church softball team one day and coaches his son or sons in Little League.

When he was seven, Colton had a coach who shaved his head for cancer. That inspired Colton. Later, when he heard me talking about a little girl with leukemia, he decided he wanted to shave his head to raise money and help her family. We had a big party at Snip-Its in Lexington and invited the community to come out and support the cause. That same year, he broke his wrist and was out of baseball for half a season.

Seven seasons of games provide many memories, both good and bad. I’ve witnessed parents screaming at their children after we lost games. I saw a 10-year-old pitcher cry, as he stood in front of parents and friends being berated by his father. I watched other parents scream at children who didn’t even belong to them because they made a bad play or struck out. Baseball was ugly at times and beautiful at others. I watched coaches who never raised their voice, and I watched coaches who screamed to hear themselves scream. I also watched coaches who encouraged our sons to do their best.

The last two years we have been privileged to be with a set of coaches who are outstanding. Guys who love baseball almost as much as their sons love it. Or, perhaps, they love baseball because they love their boys so much.

Last year we won the championship game for our division. We had some superstars on our team who went on to play for the high school teams this year. There were some returners on our team for this season, but no one stood out as being a phenomenal baseball player. There were lots of good solid players, but no superstars.

This year’s team has been, by far, my favorite team to watch play. It seemed when some of our solid players had a bad day, some of our other players stepped up and made a great play or hit a deep ball and scored some needed runs. This little team with no “superstars” won every single game. There were close calls. I remember a game when a player was injured on the other team. It was scary for the boys and parents to watch, but we rallied and won. In fact in three games we came back from a deficit to win the game. We had two Jacks on our team, and two Jacksons, Zane, Mason, Colton, Braden, Carson, Bryce, and Alex and they played for Academy Sports.

We made it to the championship again this year. In the first game of the tournament, the coach’s son was injured. This young man was the heart of our team; a good player, a better person. I never witnessed him be anything but respectful and kind. My son told me once that Braden was a friend to everyone. He said even when the other boys might be inclined to pick on someone or be unkind, Braden never participated. Our whole team went down with Braden when he injured himself at first base, and we lost the first game of the playoffs.

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A Personal Note

I should back up and tell you this year the parents were the best, as well. Baseball parents aren’t like football parents in my experience. Baseball is an individual sport as well as a team sport. Parents cheer differently at baseball games. In baseball, most people tend to cheer only for their sons. I like to cheer for all the kids (but, especially for my boy, of course.) These parents were exceptionally sportsmanlike.

I never heard one of them say anything ugly (at least not out loud) when someone struck out, and we needed them to get a hit. I never heard a dad yell at anyone but an umpire. Bryce’s dad had this great “radio voice”, and he would yell for all of our children. He knew each of them by name. He would encourage every hitter, every pitcher and his own son, (who was a good solid player) as well. On several occasions I witnessed him leaving the ball park with his arm over Bryce’s shoulder, both of them smiling. Good job, Dad. We won game two. Braden returned with a cast on his arm, cheered on his teammates and stood with his face to the field encouraging his friends.

He came back to see his team, and his father win a championship.

Game three we won again, and the title was ours, for the second year in a row. We won because we were a group of eleven boys who played as a unit; not because we were a team full of superstars. When one couldn’t produce, another player did exactly that. They also had a coach who cared more about them as individuals and giving their best effort than just winning games.

Don’t get me wrong. Clete Cordero likes to win. My husband and I met Clete when Colton did, so my interaction with him is just the parent of baseball player that he coached for two years. You remember the scripture that says, you will know a tree by the fruit it bears? Well, I feel safe to say he is a Christian. I know that he is a hard worker who loves his son. I know he loved to see those boys win. You could see it in his expression, and you could hear it in his words.

Sometimes he would get upset because they had worked on something at practice, and it didn’t materialize in a game. He would take his hat off and mutter under his breath, or he might call a player out. But, he would also be the first one to encourage a player. He would yell at the top of his lungs to tell him what a great job he did on a stealing a base, or making a huge play. I heard him say every child’s name multiple times during the season when his words were encouraging and affirmative.

A coach holds a lot of influence over our sons and daughters at this age. A good coach or a bad coach can have an immense influence on a young person’s self-image. We have been lucky to have men who understood their influence and were careful of how they used it. Coach Clete, Coach Cash, and Coach Anderson really made these last two seasons fun for our boys.

Baseball is a great sport with many good memories attached to it for me. I used to watch the Braves play with my dad. I took the kids to Major League games when we were in Atlanta. I saw Glavin and Smoltz and Chipper Jones play when they were in their prime. That was exciting, but my all-time favorite baseball player is number 12. He is 12 years old. He has blonde hair and blue eyes and a smile he is always ready to share. He has a lot of his father’s characteristics, and he is strong-willed like his mother. Some people wait a lifetime to meet their favorite player. Mine calls me Mom. Congratulations to all the baseball players finishing up the 2015 season. Hope to see you next season at the ballpark.

Until Next Time, Your Friend

Lori Samples Duncan

Good teams become great ones when the members trust each other enough to surrender the “me” for the “we.”

-Coach Phil Jackson www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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