It’s not just the number that counts. It’s being able to find more small breast cancers when more treatment options are available. Palmetto Health has achieved accreditation from the American College of Surgeons for two interdisciplinary patient care programs, the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers as well as the Commission on Cancer. From the highly trained radiologists and pathologists to nurse navigators and surgeons, our Breast Center teams on both the Baptist and Richland campuses work together to ensure that you get the best care possible. That you live your life to the fullest. That you and your family benefit from our years of experience, as well as our expertise. That’s why women of the Midlands prefer the for breast cancer screenings and treatment
)HZL K VU [OL YL JLU[S` ]V[L K )L Z[ /VZWP[HS HUK )L Z[ 7SHJL [V /H]L H )HI` I` [OL :[H[L 5L^ZWHWLY WVSS HUK H YLJLU[ PUKLWLUKLU[ THYRL[ Z[\K` ^OLYL H THQVYP[` VM ^VTLU WYLMLYYLK [OL OVZWP[HSZ VM 7HSTL[[V /LHS[O MVY ^VTLU»Z HUK TH[LYUP[` JHYL HUK IYLHZ[ JHUJLY ZJYLLUPUNZ HUK [YLH[TLU[
palhea_3469_01_ws_fulton_cm.indd 1
WHSTL[[VOLHS[O VYN *(9,
2/24/11 4:19 PM
In this Issue
TM
6
11
From the Editor
For the Home
Events
17 19 20
www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Lori Samples Duncan ld@woman2woman.sc
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVE Theresa Adams Joy Mabry Cathy Williams info@lexingtonwomanonline.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dr. Tasha Boone Ruth Chapman Laban Chappell Elaine Clary Clarissa Cockrell Lori Samples Duncan Mayor Randy Halfacre Kari Logan Jason Palmer Mandy Rivers Tyler Ryan Suzy Scott Mandy Summers Jennifer Wilson
DESIGN Melissa W. Morris
PHOTOGRAPHY Clark Berry Photography Grant Digital Media Kimberly Pollard
Find us on facebook!
Lexington Woman Magazine Woman 2 Woman Publishing (803) 785-4475 711 East Main Street, Suite K2 Lexington, SC 29072
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. © 2011
2 Spring is in the Air 3 What’s Happening in Lexington?
Things We Love!
4 Things We Love about Lexington!
Let’s Talk
5 5 6 8
Theme Is Sustainable, Lean and Green Kitchen Corner with Cotton Grill Chef Jason Palmer The Autism Spectrum An Easter Recipe:
Orange-Dijon Glazed Ham
9 10 11 12 14 16
The “M” in M. Gallery Talk of the Town with Mayor Randy Halfacre Working Mothers, Finding the Balance Don’t Whine, Do Something About It! Lexington’s Community Radio Is On the Air Cirque du Soleil Comes to Columbia
20
Spring Revival: Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Buy a Home Finding Money At Home with Tammy Ferris
Celebrating the in You!
Survivor
22 The Big “C” Word Means More than Just Cancer
Out & About 24 Scarlet Party
Health & Wellness 26 31 32 35 38
Double the Love, Double the Joy Leading the Battle Against Skin Cancer: Lexington Medical Center Offers Melanoma Screening The Calling Meet Dr. Welch Now I See
Pets
39 Veterinary CSI: How to Find Disease in Your Pet
Professional 40 41 42 44
Life Really Is Greener The Southern Patriot Ginny Jones Is Hitting Her Peak! The Test of Time
45 Business & Web Directory 46 A Personal Note
Oops! We had a mistake in our last issue on page 37 in our Love Story feature. Hima Dalal is married to Nick Dalal.
www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
W
e hope you are as excited as we are about Spring and everything that means. The flowers are in bloom, and the trees are beginning to cover themselves in lush greenery again with light rainy days to give us a little relief from the pollen that is perpetual in this season. Winter will sleep again and we southerners will prepare our swimming pools and our back yard barbecues. We will have cook outs, go camping and start to look forward to Summer. I want to remind you to support local businesses. We are always striving to bring you the best of the best in Lexington. In each issue, we try to educate you about local businesses that are committed to our readers. They have assured us that they will do their best to offer you quality products and excellent customer service, and that is what we deserve. We, as consumers, have worked hard for every dollar and when we choose to spend it, we are making an investment in the company that we spend it with. Don’t forget to visit us online for a web directory of preferred vendors, most of which are locally owned and operated businesses. Our advertisers have made an investment in you. Lexington Woman Magazine is a local publication that employs local people and prints with a South Carolina printer. Thank you for your vote of confidence in us by picking this issue up, reading and telling our advertisers how you heard about them. By doing so, you are supporting this local business. You have many choices in the community, and we never take your emails and feedback for granted. We appreciate every call, every email, and every letter. Check out recent businesses who have renewed their chamber memberships on page 10. Chamber members typically are businesses who truly care about our community, and like our advertisers, they have made a strong commitment to be involved and vested in this wonderful place we live.
Take action and celebrate Earth Day 2011 on April 22!
Thank you for coming out to the Scarlet Party in February and making it a success. We raised over $3,000 for the Midlands Chapter of the American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women campaign. Even with a spilled tanker, we managed to have over one hundred people in attendance, and everyone looked beautiful. To my knowledge, a good time was had by all! If you missed the Scarlet Party, don’t worry – we have three more upcoming events that will benefit local charities. I hope you enjoy Mayor Randy Halfacre’s “Talk of the Town” article where he will be sharing some of the news of what’s going on in the town of Lexington and also where he will be answering some questions from our readers from time to time. Email us if you have a question for him or his wife, Lexington’s first lady Mrs. Angela Halfacre. It is my personal goal to make each issue better than the last and to keep telling Lexington families about great businesses in our community. Your friend,
Lori Samples Duncan Editor-in-Chief
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women
Ecclesiastes 3:1 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven.
Events
What’s
Happening in Lexington?
Celebrity Fashion Show Thursday, April 14, 6 p.m., Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center
Pelion High School Winterguard Wins Second Place
Maggie Adkins, Katelynn Aldrich, Kelsey Bennett, Kayla Fralix, Kimberly Fralix, Delaney Holcomb, Jayme Huckleberry, Hunter Jones, Megan Jones, Ashton Nicewonger, Jerilyn Powell, Ashley Sharpe, Nicole Waltman and Monika Williams celebrate at the Carolina Winter Ensemble Association SC Premiere. They placed second in this competition.
LHS JV Wrestling Takes State Title
The Lexington High School JV Wrestling team took the state title at the Rock Hill tournament.
Presented by Lexington Medical Center, celebrities will walk the runway to benefit the SC Ovarian Cancer Foundation’s fight against ovarian cancer. Tickets are $50. To purchase tickets, call (803) 926-3462. www.scovariancancer.org
Disney On Ice presents Let’s Celebrate! Thursday, April 14 – Sunday, April 17, Colonial Life Arena, Columbia
Disney On Ice presents Let’s Celebrate! It’s one colossal party on ice, with all your favorite Disney friends! Enjoy a winter wonderland with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, a Halloween haunt with the Disney Villains, a Very Merry Unbirthday Party, a Royal Ball with the Disney Princesses and more in a magical medley of holidays, celebrations and festivals from around the globe. Come join the party! Buy your tickets at 1-877-4-TWC-TIX or purchase them online. www.coloniallifearena.com
Easter B’egg Festival April 16, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., PETS, Inc. Adoption Center, 300 Orchard Drive, West Columbia
Pelion High School Senior Signs with USC Salkehatchie
PHS Senior Rayma Shumpert (middle) signs to play softball with USC Salkehatchie. She was joined by: (left to right): PHS Coach Larry Poole; Melanie Shumpert, mother; Justin Shumpert, brother; PHS Athletic Director Ben Freeman; Jimmy Shumpert, father; PHS Principal Jean Haggard; and USC-S Coach Tatjana Slawson.
Presented by PETS, Inc. and The Carolinas Humane Society. Pets, Inc. rescues and finds homes for pets, while educating on care and encouraging people to spay, neuter and register their companion animals. As a South Carolina Angel Charity, 98.9% of all monies support the animals. Admission is free. For more information, call (803) 739-9333.
Fight Like A Girl: Round 4 April 29, 7–11 p.m., 701 Whaley, Columbia
The Ta-tinis are rolling out the pink carpet for this formal black tie optional gala. Music playing, cam-
eras flashing and the casino tables will be up and running with lots of grand prize packages to be won! The Blue Marlin will provide catering and Elliot and the Untouchables will be cranking out the tunes for you to dance the night away! Cash bar will be available including a chance to purchase a signature Tatini! Get tickets at SCOA, The Blue Marlin, or Dems Jewelers.
Love For A Cure Tennis Tournament Saturday, May 7 Lexington County Tennis Complex
This is a Men and Women Adult/Senior Doubles and Mixed Doubles Level 5 Tournament being held in memory of Jay Criscione. Register online at http:// tennislink.usta.com/tournaments (tournament ID #704143111). The entry deadline is Monday, May 2, 2011. Funds will support survivors through Lexington Medical Center Foundation and Chemo with Style. For more information, see the ad on page 15.
2011 Lexington County Master Gardener Volunteers 10th Annual Garden Tour (Stone Features, Garden Creatures, Big Moon Farm and Native Charm) May 26 and May 28, 9 a.m.– 4 p.m.; May 29, 1–5 p.m.
The tour features seven gardens of the Midlands and a working farm, Big Moon Farm. Take a morning, an afternoon or entire day to savor the beauty of diverse gardens featuring fabulous stone fountains, ponds, pools, whimsical yard art, and rare native plants! Tickets are $20. Proceeds support the Sam Cheatham Scholarships for Lexington County horticultural students. For more information please visit our website or contact Patricia Dukes (803) 796-0884, email: patdukes@bellsouth.net. www.scmmga.org
131 Innkeeper Drive • Lexington, SC 29072
For Reservations Call (803) 808-0800 or 1-800-HOLIDAY www.hiexpress.com/lexingtonsc www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
Things We Love!
Things We
H
love About Lexington!
ere are some of the things we love about Lexington:
Dogwoods of Spring We love the dogwoods and cherry trees blooming all over town and driving through a neighborhood with rows lining the streets.
Shopping for Easter clothes! We love shopping for Easter dresses and suits for the boys, knowing that on Sunday morning church will be packed and lives will be changed.
A Good Mattress We love Southern Bedding – they have the BEST mattresses around! See their article on page 44.
Family Time We love families that ride to church together in the same car – families that go home to have Sunday dinner or stop at a restaurant and eat a meal together and ask about each other’s week.
Perseverance We love people who never stop trying to get it right, no matter how many times they might have to practice.
Planting Seeds We love the planting season – planting seeds and knowing they will yield a harvest.
Rocky Creek Elementary School Students Snuggle Up to a Good Cause
Bryanna Outman and Elizabeth Spalding cozy up to good books during Relay For Life Pajama Day. RCES students and staff raised money for the cancer awareness program by donating one dollar to wear their pajamas to school. Their efforts raised $510 for the Relay For Life.
Beads for a Good Cause We love local companies like Dems Jewelers who give back to their community. Dems has even designed a bead which supports the Midlands Special Needs Foundation. Learn more about this organization and Dems’ beads on page 33.
New Beginnings We love knowing that no matter how bad our day was, the sun rises again, and it starts all over new.
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
Our Readers
We love the botanical gardens at the River Bank Zoo. This is a great time of year to visit!
Oh… and we love you too. Lexington Woman readers, you rock!
White Knoll High School Senior Signs with USC Lancaster
White Knoll High School Senior Kali Bishop signs to play softball with USC Lancaster. Pictured with Kali (center) are (left to right) Trey Bishop, WKHS Coach Kim Gunter, Heather Bishop, WKHS Coach Joey Lawson and Bill Bishop.
Lexington Woman Ad _Layout 1 4/22/10 11:08 AM Page 1
open for lunch & dinner
WINE
SPECTATOR
AWARD
Join us for lunch & enjoy
pizza, wraps, pastas, salads & soups $10.50 or less!
2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004
Visit our website for weekly specials • Follow us on twitter for upcoming events & offers
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women
gluten free menu catering private dining room
Follow us on youtube with LIVE “On the couch” interviews at Travinia with cancer survivors featured in Lexington Woman Magazine.
LEXINGTON 803/957-2422 5074 Sunset Blvd.
NORTHEAST COLUMBIA 803/419-9313 101 Sparkleberry Crossing Rd.
www.traviniaitaliankitchen.com
Theme Is Sustainable, Lean and Green
Kitchen Corner with Cotton Grill Chef Jason Palmer This is a classic French salad that has changed over the years and is said to be made popular in America by Julia Child. One of my favorites in the spring months; it is light and refreshing but still enough to fill you up.
by Laban Chappell Doing our part for nature, that is what we all want to do, but sometimes it isn’t easy, or financially feasible. Fortunately, times and demand have made being a good patron to the environment a bit more manageable. Residential recycling is common part, and energy efficiency is marketed on every new product coming off the factory floor. From a commercial standpoint though, we are still playing catch up. However, with new energy credits and proactive commercial recycling providers such as Tomato Palms, businesses finally have some great options to work with. At the Old Mill, we have been working on many different projects that will continue to help us “Go Green”. Our businesses have started to recycle solid waste such as glass, plastics, metal and office paper with the assistance of Tomato Palms commercial recycling. In six months we have recycled over 2200 lbs
of waste. We are now averaging over 600 lbs a month, mainly due to the efforts of Chef Jason Palmer at Cotton Grill. We have installed many CFL bulbs, set lighting on timers and are utilizing programmable thermostats. We are currently undergoing an Energy Audit through the SC Energy Office that will assist us in increasing our energy efficiency and decreasing our energy usage. Additionally, we will gain insightful knowledge on solar power, thermal water heating systems, rain water collection and hydroelectric power. We are proud to announce we are a member of the Lexington County Green Business Program. From all of us at the Old Mill, thank you for your patronage and hope to see you soon! For more information about the Old Mill, contact Laban Chappell at laban@highseaproperties.com. Learn more about the Lexington County Green Business Program at www.lex-co.com/greenbusiness.html.
Wine PairingDinner April 19th at 6:30pm at Cotton Grill Limited to the first 35 people, reservations required by April 16th. Enjoy an evening learning about the wide array of sustainable seafood such as local Carolina Shrimp, Albacore Tuna, Mussels, Cod, Scallops and, of course, some delicious wines and dessert. Price is $60 per person. 10% of proceeds to benefit the Sustainable Seafood Initiative.
(803) 957-1996 711 East Main St • Lexington (located at The Old Mill)
Yellow Fin Tuna Nicoise Salad (pronounced Ni’Swaz) Salad Ingredients: • 1 six ounce piece of yellow fin tuna round eye cut seared to desired doneness • 3 pieces of “white anchovies” packed in oil • 2 boiled red potatoes • 10 haricot verts • 2 boiled eggs cut into ¼ • 1 hand full of pitted Cailletier olives • Enough lettuce for a large bowl (preferably bib lettuce that has been hydroponically grown) Vinaigrette Ingredients: • ¼ cup champagne vinegar • 1 tsp minced shallots • ½ tsp minced garlic • 1 tsp herb mix • ½ tsp Dijon mustard • Salt and pepper to taste Mix until blended thoroughly. Directions: Mix the lettuce with enough vinaigrette to coat the leaves well. Build the salad up finishing off with the tuna and finally the anchovies. I enjoy pouring the last little bits of the vinaigrette over the salad to season the tuna. The tuna is caught off the South Carolina coast and in the Atlantic Ocean. May is the peak season to acquire this sustainable fish. Open a bottle of crisp light fruity and floral wine and enjoy on your patio in the warm spring evening. — Cheers, Chef Jay
www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
The
AUTISM SPECTRUM by Clarissa Cockrell
F
ew things in my life have ever challenged, inspired, motivated, exhausted, or intrigued me the way that raising a child on the Autism Spectrum has. I am blessed to be a wife and the mother of three children. My daughters, Sarah and Jessica are ages 15 and 13 respectively. My son Justin, is now 19 and has Asberger’s Autism. From the time that he was born with his fuzzy little blonde head and sparkling blue eyes I knew that he was different or “special”. Not in the way that says “hey, he will learn differently from others” or “he may not see the world in the way that others do”. But “different” or “special” in the way most parents do when they gaze upon their first born child filled with hopes and dreams of future presidents or rocket scientists. Justin progressed through all of the developmental stages normally if not early. He was happy and for all intents and purposes we had no concerns. As Justin entered his preschool years it became clear that he was busier than others, needed little to no sleep, and would prefer to line his trucks up around the edges of his room rather than actually roll them along. Feeling that internal nagging that says “something is not quite right” I read books, sought advice, and talked to other parents. All assured me that he was “all boy”. During his elementary school years, I enrolled him the schools that I worked in,
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women
Looking back, I realize that I was defining ‘success’ as what the other kids were doing, not building on his strengths. systematically selected his teachers, checked on him throughout the day, and did all that I could to make his school experience as successful as possible. Looking back, I realize that I was defining “success” as what the other kids were doing, not building on his strengths. As Justin became older those tactics no longer seemed to work. We began trying medications thinking that he had ADHD. We went to counselors, doctors, and researched day and night online to find answers. We continued to increase medications and Justin
seemed to collect diagnosis’ like a Christmas Tree collects ornaments. We put plans in place with his school yet despite our best efforts he made no academic or social progress and began to get depressed. For all of our good intentions, we could not make him “like all the other boys and girls”. Feeling that something had to change we made a decision to move him home. He was getting frustrated as were we. We asked the school to allow him to do virtual school full time from home with me acting as a teacher / personal aide to help keep him focused. It was exhausting, but the payoff was great. Around this time we finally got a private diagnosis of Asbergers’ Autism. Though we had been searching for an answer to this “puzzle” for so long, getting the diagnosis was both a relief and a shock. Now we had an answer, but what did the future hold and where do you go from here? Approaching his 11th grade year, we began to feel that Justin had a good academic background
Envision...Brings Your World Into Focus!
(left) Justin playing volleyball on a student government trip; (right) Justin and a friend at Midland’s Strides for Autism Walk but with his diagnosis we knew that there was a critical need for social experiences if he were going to transition into college or a job. Public school was simply too large, too loud and often anxiety producing. We looked around the community but found that there were not many things available for kids on the Autism Spectrum. We placed Justin at Glenforest School while leaving him on roll in his public high school. In that setting, Justin surpassed our wildest dreams! He played basketball, soccer, was on the student government, went on his first overnight trips, and did community service. Justin went to the state basketball championship with a team who had defined “success” differently. Justin graduated last spring with a 4.36 from Glenforest and in the top 10% of his public school graduating class with a 4.24 G.P.A. there. A light bulb clicked on in our heads. Perhaps our original definition of success really meant “normal” or like everyone else. Looking back what we learned, while we were teaching Justin at home and working diligently to get to this point, graduation and higher education, is that kids on the Autism Spectrum have some of the most brilliant, amazing minds. There is nothing “normal” about them and the path for raising these special children is nothing less than extraordinary. It is not easy, it is not for the faint at heart, but love and diligence do prevail in the end.
In a speech given to almost 300 people last March about his experiences with Autism, Justin said “I have the best parts of Autism” I would have to agree. He is smart, funny, and able to see things so uniquely and in such interesting ways. Things like math and memorizing numbers that would bore me to shreds are fabulous puzzles to him. He sees the good in people, but also the bad. There is no middle ground or gray area. Because of this he has a refreshing honesty and we always know where we stand. At this time Justin is currently in the engineering bridge program at Midlands Technical College making A’s and an occasional “B”. Justin’s diagnosis of Asberger’s came at a time when not as much was known about Autism. As parents we found that there were very few things available for kids like Justin and their families in the community. To address that need, we have started “Camp T.A.L.K.” which stands for “Teaching Advocacy and Life Skills to Kids”. It is an inclusive day camp that meets in June and July for children like Justin who have High Functioning Autism or Asberger’s. We are blessed to have a staff completely comprised of volunteers who are teachers, parents of children on the spectrum, or therapists. If you would like more information about Camp T.A.L.K., visit www.camptalk.org.
www.EnvisionFamilyEyeCare.com
Complete Vision Care from 1 to 100 Dr. William Reynolds • Dr. Nathaniel Jensen
803.996.2020
5166 Sunset Boulevard, Suite J, Lexington, SC 29072
Local commercials are awful. They don’t have to be.
HD Video Production • Consulting • Photography (803) 360-9164
www.grantdigitalmedia.com www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
Welcome Aboard the Southern Patriot
Lake Murray Tours The Southern Patriot is a 65 foot double deck cruise boat located on beautiful Lake Murray, South Carolina just a few miles north west of Columbia. The Southern Patriot can carry up to 100 passengers and is suitable for any type of event.
Just in time for Easter...
ORANGEDIJON
glazed ham
Available for: Anniversaries • Business Events • Family Reunions Neighborhood Groups • Senior Citizen Groups Birthday Parties • Wedding Events • School Groups Luncheons • Meetings • Fundraisers
by Mandy Rivers
Ingredients: 1 (12-15 lb) smoked bone-in ham 1 cup orange juice 1 ½ cups brown sugar ½ cup honey 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon dry mustard
Directions: Place ham in a large roasting pan, cover (either with aluminum foil or lid) and bake at 325 degrees for 2 hours. Meanwhile, add remaining ingredients to a small sauce pan to make the glaze. Cook on low heat until simmering. Simmer for 10 minutes then cover and remove from heat. Remove ham from oven and increase oven temperature to 400 degrees.
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Pour off excess liquid from the pan (I use this to make Greeeezy Rice*). Remove skin and excess fat from ham. Score fat on ham in a diamond pattern. Brush ham with glaze and return to oven (dress ham with cloves, pineapple, cherries, etc. if desired). Cook for 30 additional minutes, basting twice during cooking time. Remove from oven and allow ham to cool for 15 minutes before carving.
www.lakemurraytours.com (803) 749-8594 1600 Marina Road, Irmo, SC
*Greeeezy Rice is just rice cooked from the broth and drippings. It is my favorite thing about cooking a ham! And it’s good I rarely cook ham or my heart would probably have stopped long ago!
Real Women
Check out the interviews online at
www.youtube.com/lexingtonwomantv
Let’s Talk
WHERE YOU SHOP FOR INSPIRATION!
The “M” in M. Gallery by Mandy Summers
Mandy Summers
Certified Interior Decorator
RUGS • UNIQUE HOME ACCESSORIES & GIFTS ORIGINAL ARTWORK • ARCHITECTURAL PIECES We have wonderful Mother’s Day gift ideas for all of those amazing moms! Jewelry by artist Jay Shiavone, guest towels, potpourri, candles, lamps, mirrors and more!
Can’t decide what to get? Let Mom choose! Giver her a M. Gallery gift certificate, available in ANY dollar amount and redeemable for gallery merchandise or design services.
711 E Main Street • Lexington
(located in Lexington’s Historic Old Mill – Main Level) 803.785.4620 • Mon – Tues by appointment Wed - Fri 11am – 6pm • Sat 11am – 3pm
I
am Mandy Summers, the “M” in M. Gallery Interiors. Please allow me to share a little about my life, my business and my motto. Growing up in a military family, we moved to many areas of our beautiful country. I know of the sacrifices that ensure our American way of life. I was one of four kids; I waited tables, cleaned condos and babysat to earn money. I attended college in New York, England and Spain, during which I developed a love of art, architecture and international travel. I earned a BA in both International Business and Political Science with a minor in Spanish; I was law school bound! Like many women, I met a man and totally switched gears. I went from working in accounting “up North”, to coordinating PR campaigns and coaching public speaking “down South” to fund my husband’s USC law degree. I went from “Air Force Brat” to “Army Wife” when we spent nearly 4 years at Ft. Bragg. After our beautiful daughter was born, I became a “Stay-at-Home-Mom.” In 1995, we returned to Lexington where I headed up charity committees, organized fundraisers, solicited volunteers, delivered speeches and coached kids’ soccer. In 1999, our handsome boy was born and life was good.
(803) 359-4866 109 Old Chapin Road #L • Lexington (Located in the Shoppes of Flight Deck between Martini Bar & Tokyo Grill in downtown Lexington)
www. yummiecreations.com
Sadly, our 15 year marriage ended. Determined to make a good life for my children and myself, I enrolled in a Beth Moore Bible study and bravely returned to college to pursue my love and passion – Interior Design. Upon completion, I found a job in my new chosen field and began learning everything I could
about residential and commercial interior design. I needed a flexible career that would allow me to still be at all my AMAZING children’s events.
I do WHATEVER it takes to meet my customers’ and clients’ decorating and gift needs. Two years ago, I took a leap of faith and opened M. Gallery Interiors. This is America; there is no reason that a God-fearing, 4’11”, high-heel wearing, determined single mom can’t go into business for herself. I gutted a double space in Lexington’s Old Mill and tracked down talented artisans and exhibitors. I offer decorating services, host fun events and do WHATEVER it takes to meet my customers’ and clients’ decorating and gift needs. I pray regularly, laugh often, and enjoy an occasional glass of wine. I try to ALWAYS keep a smile on my face and give back to my community. My motto – “Faith, humor and a good Merlot will get you through anything.”
Mandy has a wonderful shop at The Historic Old Mill in Lexington with an eclectic blend of funky and fun accessories and originals. Mandy can help you to decorate a small room or office, or an entire house. She was quick to remind us that she prides herself on being able to work within the realm of what each individual clients needs are. Call (803) 785-4620 or stop by her shop to schedule a private consultation or peruse her ever changing stock at M. Gallery. www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
Let’s Talk
TALK
of the town
with MAYOR RANDY HALFACRE
G
reetings! As the Town of Lexington’s Mayor, I am honored to have been asked by Lexington Woman Magazine to have a “Talk of the Town” column in their publication. As many of you know, the Town has experienced tremendous growth, which has led to several new initiatives. This year alone, we will be tackling three major projects: sidewalk improvements, creating the Town’s Vision Plan, which will help us prepare for 2020 and beyond, and implementing a Farmers Market on Main Street. Lexington has been fortunate to receive grant money to improve our quality of life, allowing us to install new sidewalks on Church Street, Gibson Road and George Street. Also, we recently launched our Vision Plan. Throughout the year we will continue taking your suggestions and will present you with our formula in shaping the future to help the Town grow for generations to
come. Finally, another way to showcase our community is to establish a local downtown Farmers Market. This recommendation was approved by Council in March and we expect to launch the venture in May. This would enable vendors to sell their locally grown fruits, vegetables and goods to residents who will have an opportunity to buy produce fresh, right off the truck. Equally important, it will bring people to Main Street and create activities critical to revitalization. These achievements and projects in 2011 will continue to reinforce why the Town of Lexington is a stellar community in which to live, work, learn and play. Proudly Serving as your Mayor since 2004!
Sincerely, Randy Halfacre, Mayor Town of Lexington
New Members of the Chamber (As of March 7, 2011) Spring-Green Lawn Care (803) 407-7000
Robert Half International Accountemps (803) 525-2555
Carolina Soft Apparel / The Scrub Shop Mobile, LLC (803) 951-9330
Chimney Ridge Apartments (803) 356-8000
Darrell N. Newsome Jr., CPA LLC (803) 463-5765 Master’s Men Remodeling & Construction (803) 210-6918 Best Dressed Kids Consignment (803) 356-3858
Carolina Painting & Pressure Cleaning (803) 936-2595 Rep. Todd Atwater (803) 798-6207 Pebble Creek Senior Apts (803) 520-6481 The Boudreaux Group Inc (803) 799-0247
Griffin Pools and Spas (803) 957-2121
Want Lexington Woman delivered to your inbox?
First Response (803) 750-5538 Time Warner Cable Business Class 866-TWC-4BIZ Go Go Laser Tag (803) 414-3930 Kay Plumbing (803) 445-3707 Precious Wonders Child & Family Center (803) 509-1039 Bankers Life and Casualty (803) 798-4450
10
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women
Subscribe to the online version of Lexington Woman at www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
Working Mothers,
Finding the Balance by Dr. Tasha Boone
photography by Clark Berry Photography
How can a mother nurture her children, maintain her household as well as work a full time job?
H
ow can any working mother find the right balance in everyday life with all of the demands that are placed upon us? In one instance, we are pulled in the direction of motherhood by our children. Ironically at the exact same time, our husbands are pulling on us in a different direction to be wives.
To others in our family and those we know, we are pulled in multiple directions to be daughters, sisters, aunts and best friends. Our homes, especially when young children are present, require us to be referees to maintain the peace, chauffeurs to get our kids to school and extracurricular activities, chefs to make sure everyone is fed and housekeepers to make sure our homes are somewhat in order. Outside of our families, we also volunteer, teach, and try to serve others who are in need. And don’t forget about work where we spend a significant portion of our time each day. There are definitely significant demands on our time at our respective places of employment. So how do we do it all? How can a mother nurture her children, maintain her household as well as work a full time job? How many times have we asked that question but somehow made it work. Most likely, you are like me and have found that setting priorities can make it work. Since my early years I have found that if I structure my life and thinking around God, family and work, things always seem to fall into place.
GOD Daily prayer and meditation to God are critical. Both are needed to refocus, recharge and rejuvenate. Without any one of those three things, our lives will not be in order. Daily prayer and meditation are a necessity. We must fill our minds with positive thoughts so that our attitudes and outlook on life can be the same, positive.
FAMILY We are wives and mothers because of our husbands and children. They need us and we definitely need them. We must share time with our family because they are precious gifts from above that everyone is not privileged to have. We are our children’s first role models and spending time with them allows a piece of who we are to be in them. This piece of ourselves will help them develop into successful members of society. I have learned that we place very little value on things that are free, like giving of our time. However, things like our time should have the highest value because they have the most significant impact on our families and when time is lost, you cannot get it back. We seem to place high value on things we pay for, like a car. But remember
things like a car, if lost, can be replaced. Our time and energy are free and our family needs and deserves to have both of them from us.
WORK Money is a necessity for the financial stability of our families. Work allows us to earn that needed income as well as provides a way for us to stay up to date in our respective professions. We must participate in the day to day operations of our job and that’s o.k. Enjoy your time there, however if it is pulling you away from God and/or family, then please reevaluate the time you devote to work. In the midst of it all, do not forget you. Devote some time for yourself. Pamper yourself, you deserve it. We, as mothers, are the hardest working organization in the world and deserve special treatment. Mothers are very special and it is an honor and a privilege that God has allowed me to be one. Visit Dr. Tasha Boone at The Medical Place Family Practice in West Columbia. Visit www.themedicalplacefp.com to learn more or see her ad on page 37. www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
11
Don’t Whine,
Do Something About It! by Ruth Chapman
S
ometimes the “perfect job” doesn’t turn out to be so perfect after all. Take my first job out of college. I graduated from USC on a Saturday and began what I thought was the ‘perfect job’ on Monday, two days later.
I was hired as a trainer with Policy Management Systems in Blythewood, SC. Our job was to travel all over the country giving a two week training session on software our company had designed for our client. We were travelling to branch offices of that client and we also gave them assistance during their first “live week” using our new software. PMSC had 6 trainers and the client company had 6 trainers. After the same two weeks of instruction we were to present to our client, I, along with 3 other fellow co-workers were put on the road to begin our task. Sometimes we were paired with PMSC trainers and other times we were paired with client trainers. This, to me, was a dream come true. It was doing two things I love to do: teaching and travelling. I first went to Atlanta for 3 weeks. I had been to Atlanta before, but never for this long. We were able to fly home on the weekends and we stayed in very nice hotels, alone. We were not forced to share living space with each other. Can you imagine working side-by-side, eating and taking breaks with a single co-worker, only to have to live with that person in a hotel room each night? The upside to the job was the travel; the downside, again, the travel. I was engaged to be married and planning a wedding for February, but had little time to do anything when travelling. This is how my week went: Sunday afternoon I flew out either through Atlanta or Charlotte to whatever city was my destination for the week. Then, at the end of the week, I flew back home on Friday, usually arriving in town around supper time. Saturdays
12
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women
we were required to drive into the office to pick up training materials, or to actually make training materials (i.e. copy binders for each trainee), then pick up an expense check and tickets to the next week’s destination. Sunday it began all over again. I dreaded Sundays so bad. Chris, my future husband, would come over and watch me pack, and then we would head to the airport. Because we hated so much time apart, we would generally cry in each other’s arms, then I’d get on the plane, lonely and missing him already.
...if you feel deep in your heart that you are wasting your time in a job that makes you hate to get up in the morning you cannot ignore your gut feeling.
Remember, this is before cell phones. There was no texting during the day; no Skype to hook into at night; no endless late phone calls to each other. We were allowed 5 minutes per day for personal phone calls, billed to the corporate expense account. Do you know how long 5 minutes actually is? Sometimes, during the day I would sneak into one of the offices and call him from the company phone; but many times there was a numerical code on the phones that was required to make long distance calls and I didn’t have it.
15-20 minutes, and then went to her room to knock on her door. She had already left! I don’t know how she thought I would get to the office, but clearly, she didn’t care. I called a taxi and got a ride to the office. That evening, damned if she didn’t do it again! She left me at the office, to fend for myself. The reason she told me later that she left was because she couldn’t find me. That’s because our supervisor, “Betsy” had called to have a serious, private discussion with me.
When we were in training, there were 4 of us; 3 females and 1 male. I got along with everyone except one person, for whom I had little respect. Around the time that my frustration at being away from home was at its peak, I was sent to train an office with this other trainer, let’s call her Tammy. It started off poorly and went downhill from there. Tammy decided she would be in charge of the rental car for the week. So we agreed to meet downstairs in the lobby at 8:15 the first morning. The first day went well enough. The second day, however, I was downstairs in the lobby at the appointed time, but Tammy was not. I waited for
The conversation went something like this: “Ruth, did you discuss (something we weren’t supposed to discuss) with Tammy?” To which I replied, “No ma’am. We didn’t discuss it. I simply stated a fact and told her not to discuss it with anyone else.” She asked, “Did someone overhear you?” “No, we were on the airplane,” I said. “Well, she told this person, who told that person
Let’s Talk and now they are all upset!” She hollered at me. By this time, I’m fuming – not only at that stinking Tammy – but also at myself for being so stupid! She said, “I think you need to think some things through tonight. We’ll talk tomorrow.” “Yes ma’am. I’m sorry and I’ll talk to you tomorrow” I said. Then I went look for you know who and she was nowhere to be found. I had to get the branch manager of the office to take me back to the hotel. When we arrived at the hotel, I promptly thanked the manager, took my briefcase and marched straight to Tammy’s door. I banged on the door, which she reluctantly opened. I simply held out my hand and said, “KEYS!”
wait. But it was clear that this was not the job for me. It felt as if the world had been lifted off my shoulders, and I slept my best sleep in weeks that night. The next morning when my boss called me, I was ready. “Have you thought about what you want to do, Ruth?” she asked. “Yes ma’am, I have” I said. “Are you ready to apologize and admit your mistake?” she asked. “Yes ma’am. I’m sorry I discussed the forbidden subject and I won’t do it again. And I am resigning.” I happily replied.
She began to stammer, “I thought you had left already. I couldn’t find you.”
Even though I turned in my 2 week resignation that day, I was put back on the road the following week with the client company’s trainer, with the worst reputation, in the worst city in America. Go figure! I made the best of it, though and the trainer was not bad to work with at all.
“That’s because I was on the phone with our boss! This is the second time you have left me. It won’t happen again. I am in charge of the car for the rest of the week. If you want a ride tomorrow, be downstairs at 8:15. Good night!” I said.
The moral of this story? I suppose there could be several. I have a personal motto that goes like this: Life is too short to be in a job you hate. I have tried to live by that motto and have done pretty well for myself.
After this day from hell, I was spent. I went to the room and called my parents crying. Mom was on one phone and Daddy got on the extension. After I sobbed explaining what had happened during the day, there was a silence. Then Daddy said, “You need to quit Ruth Marie. Just quit and come home. You hate this job, we hate this job and Chris hates it. Just come home.”
I have been married to my husband for 23 years; we have lived in the same house for 16 years with no plans to ever move; and we have had our jewelry store for 13 years. But I have changed jobs many times, always for the better. And I don’t judge jobs by the salary. I would rather be paid $5,000 less and love my job than to take a higher paying job and be miserable. I know in this tough economy it’s much easier to say ‘quit if you’re unhappy’ than to actually do it. But if you feel deep in your heart that you are wasting your time in a job that makes you hate to get up in the morning you cannot ignore your gut feeling. So after much thought, prayerful consideration and discussion with your partner, don’t whine do something about it!
“But I owe you for my car and rent. How am I going to pay you?” I whimpered. “Don’t worry about that. You just quit.” Ah…music to my ears! Actually the thought had not entered my mind until Daddy said that. I had been trying to hold on until we moved out to the West coast. I had always wanted to see California and I was really trying to make it. By the time I called Daddy, we were in Texas, so I didn’t have much longer to
Visit Ruth at The Chapman Company Fine Jewelers at 903 North Lake Drive in Lexington for all of your jewelry needs.
Let us help with gifts for that special someone this Spring!
C C
THE
HAPMAN OMPANY
FINE JEWELERS Specializing in On-Site Repair and Custom Design
803-996-5530
903 North Lake Drive, Lexington (look for the black awning)
www.thechapmancompany.com
Don’t Miss It! Friday, April 29 7:00 - 11:00pm 701 WHALEY, COLUMBIA Learn more on page 3. www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
13
Let’s Talk
Lexington’s Community Radio is
ON THE AIR
T
by Lori Samples Duncan
hanks to the perseverance of local entrepreneurs and veteran broadcaster’s Richard Peterson and Michael Willis, Lexington now has a local FM radio station to call its own.
Lake Murray Broadcasting, Inc., WLXM, Lexington’s Community Radio Station, signed on-the-air December 18, 2010 and began regular programming at 12 noon on Wednesday, January 12, 2011, with live coverage of Nikki Haley’s gubernatorial inauguration. The inauguration of a Lexington resident as governor provided WLXM with programming content that was both substantive and symbolic of the station’s mission and purpose to be live, local, informative, and all about Lexington. Over five years ago, Peterson and Willis began their quest to bring local, community service broadcasting to Lexington and Lake Murray. The two veteran broadcasters noticed that even with the areas many attributes, it was missing one thing; a local radio station. With that, the two began the laborious process of research, technical engineering studies, FCC applications and filings, working with broadcast law attorneys, and talks and negotiations with other area broadcasters. In late 2010, the FCC granted Lake Murray
Broadcasting, Inc., a nonprofit corporation, permission to begin broadcasting. Since that time, in addition to playing a unique, wide variety of music, WLXM Radio has aired countless hours of local programming supporting Lexington schools, churches, civic clubs, charities, events, businesses and nonprofit organizations. For example, WLXM cosponsored or supported local events to benefit the Greater Lexington Chamber and Visitor’s Center, Lake Murray Chamber, Saxe Gotha Presbyterian Church and Lexington’s Race Against Hunger, American Heart Association, Lexington’s Local Farmer’s Market, Lexington School District One, Lexington High School and Lexington/Richland Education District Five’s Battle of the Dam fitness walk which attracted nearly 3,000 participants. WLXM also airs the Monday with the Mayor program, weekly at 10 a.m. with Lexington Mayor Randy Halfacre and carried the mayor’s State of the Town address, live from Town Hall in March. WLXM has also served as a vital link between
local law enforcement and the public. Back in early March when a tanker truck carrying gasoline overturned at a busy major intersection in
WLXM Radio has aired countless hours of local programming supporting Lexington schools, churches, civic clubs, charities, events, businesses and nonprofit organizations. Lexington, creating a potentially dangerous situation, WLXM worked with the Lexington Police Department to provide live updates throughout the day and kept Lexington locals informed of new developments, traffic issues, roadblocks and alternate routes.
Great Mix of Music Local News • Weather Traffic • Sports Community Radio Broadcasting from the Shoppes at Flight Deck
(803) 785-9596 or (803) 546-2203
SERVING THE LEXINGTON AND LAKE MURRAY COMMUNITIES 14
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women
109R Old Chapin Road Lexington, South Carolina www.lakemurrayradio.com
Let’s Talk
Second Annual Sanctioned “One Day” Tournament In Memory of Jay Criscione
Funds will support Lexington Medical Center Foundation and Chemo with Style
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Lexington County Tennis Complex 425 Oak Drive • Lexington, SC 29073
For division play information and to register online:
http://tennislink.usta.com/tournaments (Tournament ID# 704143111)
Prizes awarded to Winners & Finalist in all divisions. All players will receive a participant gift.
$28 for the First Event • $8 for Second Event Entry Deadline: Monday, May 2nd
Jorge Andrew, Tournament Director Men & Women Adult/Senior Doubles & Mixed Doubles Level 5 Tournaments
Limited Draw: The draw for this tournament is limited to eight teams per division. The draws will be filled on a first come, first serve basis. An alternate list will be maintained once a draw is filled. Registration open now
May 6th Players/Guest Social Friday, (6:30 - 8:30pm)
WLXM listeners acknowledge quickly the station’s commitment to local service. A community calendar of area events and activities is broadcasts several times per day and WLXM is the only radio station that continually airs localized Lexington and Lake Murray weather and current condition reports, as well as lake water temperature, wind speed and direction, and lake water-level reports in real-time. WLXM radio’s live programming schedule features Ken Martin mornings from 7 to 10. Martin, himself a legendary Midlands area broadcaster, has been a favorite of local radio listeners for decades. Lake Murray Broadcasting was fortunate to obtain Martin’s insight and talent early in 2011. Mike Willis, joint owner with Peterson, handles the afternoon drive-time show each weekday, from 3 to 7. The local programming approach is informative and entertaining. Leveraging their music business, entertainment, communications and broadcasting experience, Peterson and Willis developed
a hybrid music format that has struck a chord with listeners and created tremendous local appeal. Much like the Top 40 radio music format of the 60’s, 70’s and early 80’s, the WLXM ‘mix’ includes music from multiple genre’s, including Rock & Roll, Soul, Vintage R&B, Motown, Country, Classic Hits and a healthy dose of regional Beach/Shag favorites. WLXM weekends sizzle with the flare of a beach or lake party as John Hook “The Voice of Beach Music,” hosts’ three special programs of Beach, Shag, Blues and Classic R&B. Those programs include Hook’s Weekly Beach Music Countdown, Yearly Countdown that spotlights a different year each week, and the Roadhouse Blues, Boogie and Fish Fry. Future articles on Lake Murray Broadcasting and WLXM radio will include additional details and information on the station, its unique music format and beach music indigenous to the south. For information on how to support Lexington’s local, community radio station, visit WLXM online at www. lakemurrayradio.com.
We want you to “Like” us!
FOOD • MUSIC • PRIZES • LIBATIONS Come “Play” and enjoy The Bistro and Martini Bar, Cotton Grill, Travinias, Kovachi’s, Yummie Creations, Mediterranean Café and Chen’s Chinese.
Find us on facebook!
Win “Grand Slam” prizes from Radisson Hotel – Columbia, Wingate by Wyndham – Columbia/Lexington, Staybridge Suites – Columbia, and Holiday Inn & Suites – West Columbia. Décor by The Eclectic House
For tickets or more information, call
Paulette Criscione (803) 359-1312 or Kimberly Campbell (803) 951-1888 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! www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
15
A Simply Timeless Approach TO
YO U R
R E A L
E S TATE
NEEDS
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL
Comes to Columbia
Sally Lucas, Coldwell Banker United
5551 Sunset Blvd • Lexington, SC Direct: (803) 760-0289 • Fax: (803) 957-6828 Email: Sally@SallyLucasHomes.com
Sally Lucas
A
legría is a Cirque du Soleil classic and an internationally acclaimed production that has entertained more than 10 million people worldwide since its world premiere in Montreal in 1994. In May 2009, Alegría embarked on a new journey, performing the same mesmerizing production, but now in arenas throughout North America, giving more people the opportunity to enjoy a Cirque du Soleil show in their own town.
Alegría is a Spanish word that means happiness, joy and jubilation and features an international cast of 55 performers and musicians from 17 countries and showcases breathtaking acrobatics. Acts include the Synchro Trapeze and the intense and high-energy Aerial High Bars in which daring aerialists fly to catchers swinging more than 40 feet above the stage. The vibrancy of youth is alive in Power Track, a brilliant display of synchronized choreography and tumbling on a trampoline system hidden under the stage floor. In Russian Bars, artists fly through the air and perform spectacular somersaults and mid-air turns, landing on bars perched on the sturdy shoulders of catchers. One such act is performed by Australian born Sebastian Hunter. He has been with the show just over a year. I had an opportunity to speak with Sebastian last week and he shared a little of his excitement about this current tour with me. ”It’s great to be a part of a show that you can feel so proud of,” Sebastian said. Having been a circus performer before joining the Canadian based Cirque du Soleil, Sebastian says he loves performing with this group of entertainers; his hope is that the audi-
16
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
ence will embrace the theme of Alegria (jubilation) and let that emotion fill them as they enjoy the show. Being a part of the first act of the show, Sebastian says that after his act is finished he is usually back on stage within the next two acts, so most of the performers are playing multiple roles and playing a variety of characters. He feels this particular style of how the show works makes a much bigger picture because Cirque has so many characters on stage dancing and singing at the same time. An interesting note about Sebastian is that he was not a trapeze artist before he joined Cirque. He trained for just five months for the act that he is currently performing. Sebastian also pointed out that there are many tremendous athletes that make up the Cirque du Soleil. There are several high ranking athletes that are now in the show, Olympic athletes even. Sebastian was very complimentary of his fellow athletic performers. We hope you will make plans to join us there. Tickets are on sale now at The Colonial Life Arena box office.
Real Women
www.SallyLucasHomes.com
137 Vista Oaks Dr., Lexington $163,900 – 2 Bedroom Patio Home
366 Ruth Vista Rd., Lexington $219,900 – 2 Acres!!
1456 Bombing Range Rd, Gilbert $359,900 – On Lake Murray
225 Wander Ct, Lexington $163,500 – One Story with Bonus
124 Harmon Creek Ct, Lexington $166,900 – 2568sqft!!
125 Maguire, Lexington $119,900 – Hardwood Flrs & Large Lot
824 Shore View Rd., Columbia $589,900 – Lake Community w/Upgrades
112 Woodsedge Ct, West Columbia $135,000 – Brick and private w/.73 acres
123 Hounds Run Dr, Lexington $269,900 – All Brick One Level w/Bonus
510 Beverly Dr., West Cola $180,000 – Minutes from Downtown
April is designated as National Autism Month Read Clarissa Cockrell’s article on page 6 about raising a son with Autism and how she is now helping others in the community.
For the Home
GREEN TIPS
for your home! Lexington Woman wants to help you go green this Spring. Making an effort is so important for our environment, and it can also help save us money. Follow these easy tips, and you’ll be green in no time!
• Replace old incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs). • When possible, use cold
water when washing clothes. Follow this by using a drying rack or clothesline to save energy used by machine drying.
• Turn your thermostat a few
degrees back in the winter and during the summer, adjust it a few degrees higher.
• Take shorter showers to reduce the use of water. This will also help with your heating bill! • Use a water purifier to fill
plastic or aluminum reusable water bottles instead of buying bottled water on a regular basis.
• Buy in bulk. This can save you
money and also reduces the use of packaging.
• Upgrade your appliances to energy-efficient models, especially if yours are over 10 years old. Most Energy Star-qualified appliances use 10%-50% less energy and water than older models.
SPRING REVIVAL: Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Buy a Home by Ashley Ford
S
ome people are calling it a spring revival, while others are referring to it as the “March Thaw.” But no matter what you call it, temperatures are heating up outside. And according to Coldwell Banker Realtor Sally Lucas, so is the housing market. “It’s been a rough winter in more ways than one. When the snow thawed out and it warmed up a little bit, things picked up,” said Lucas, who is also the owner of Sally Lucas Homes. “Rates are still extremely low and there’s a lot of homes out there to choose from, so both of those alone are great reasons to buy. It’s definitely a buyers market now.” When trying to decide on a home, Lucas said it’s important that potential buyers not only have enough cash on hand for at least a 3.5 percent down payment, but also have financing approved, and be familiar with the areas you want to live in. And what’s so great about Lexington, she adds, is that there’s no shortage of great neighborhoods. “Pretty much anywhere in Lexington seems to be the place to go. We’ve got great people; we’ve got great churches; we got great schools” Lucas said. “There’s not any particular school in Lexington that’s better than another one – the schools are great across the board. We’ve got Lake Murray and there’s tons to do here. It really is a great place to live and raise a family.” In addition to scoping out potential neighborhoods, Lucas said it’s also important to think about your
home’s future resale value. For example, she said buying a home with a two-car garage instead of a one-car garage could help its resale value. “And the biggest mistake that people make is that they don’t think far enough down the road. I’ll talk to young couples about schools and they’ll just look at me starry-eyed – you never know what the future holds,” she said, laughing. “Whether you’re married or single, keep schools in mind because that would be a resale tool. Don’t just consider what you like, especially if you’re not planning on being in that home for the absolute rest of your life. Think about things that would be easier to sell down the road.” So what about those who are looking to buy a new home, but need to sell their current home first? It’s completely possible, even in a buyers market with stiff competition, Lucas said.
But it’s not about what you need to get, it’s about what the market is,” she said. “Step back and look at the big picture as a seller. Don’t look at what the bottom line is when selling this house. Instead, ask yourself, ‘What is my ultimate goal?’” So whether you’re looking for a new home to live in, or more space to entertain or a lake home to retire to, Lucas said she could not emphasize enough how now is such a great time to buy a home in Lexington. “It really is an awesome time to buy. Rates are low and there’s still a lot of homes on the market,” she said. “And if you’re selling your home, yes, you might lose on the selling side. Don’t focus on the negative, focus on the positive. You can turn it around and make it up when you buy.” Visit our website to see Sally Lucas in our On the Couch series. photo by Clark Berry Photography
The key is pricing your home right to sell, making it look appealing to future homebuyers, hire a professional to market it and remembering that you’re a seller in the midst of a buyers market. “A lot of sellers will push and say ‘We really need to get this much.’
It really is an awesome time to buy. Rates are low and there’s still a lot of homes on the market. — Sally Lucas www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
17
Web Design | Graphic Design | Media Placement Speciality Products | Branding | SEO Campaigns Social Media Campaigns
803.398.1776 www.TylerRyanGroup.com 18
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women
For the Home
Finding Money
by Tyler Ryan
“Y
ou can get a mortgage, and you can get a good rate,” says Sarah Good, Mortgage Originator for Southern First Bank, citing rates of less than five percent for a thirty year loan. Although rates have started to “creep back up” from the four percent range, they are still well under the five and six percent that were common two to three years ago, “so now is the time to do it.” That rosy picture of low rates is painted with a few stipulations. Gone are the days that you could simply state an income which was often not verified by a lending institution. In some cases, loans could be made without stating or proving any income or means to repay the loan at all. Some institutions would lend money based on the value of a home, regardless of the buyer’s ability to payback the loan. The scrutiny is a bit tougher, including an analysis of your debt to income ratio. As an example, Sarah suggested that a good working number for calculation is keeping your debt at about forty percent of your income. She did note that it is not an “exact science,” but it is a good rule of thumb. Sarah defined debt as traditional
loans, auto loans, credit cards, and other revolving obligations, added in with the potential amount a buyer is looking to borrow. Expenses such as food, gas, and a power bill are not figured into the analysis. How much does credit score play into it? “You can still be approved for a mortgage with a score as low as 620.” Even if a potential homebuyer has some dings on their credit report, due to an overdue library book, or collections actions on an old cellular telephone account, it may not prevent the ability to own a home. Thirty dollar co-pays from medical bills is a very common credit score killer but Sarah explained that the interest rate may be a little higher, and in most cases, a down payment is required, “but you can do it.” She also noted that with a score above
six forty, someone could qualify for a mortgage without the twenty percent requirement. Many issues on a credit report can be analyzed on a case by cases basis. Using Southern First’s commitment to client satisfaction, Sarah says that in the event a potential client doesn’t qualify for a mortgage, she will work with the would be homebuyer on ways the credit score can be impacted positively enough to allow for the loan to be processed, and often in a very short amount of time. It should be noted that Sarah is very proud of Southern First’s commitment to service, and that fact from the President all the way to the teller line often separates the eleven year old institution in the world of banking. “We’re just nice,” she says with a smile.
Sarah Good
“If you have any collections, you can pay them,” she uses as an example. Other simple fixes for credit score improvement including keeping credit card balances below fifty percent of your credit limit.” The bottom line is that it is not impossible to get a mortgage, and in fact, it may not be any harder. “I think it is a common misconception that you can’t get a loan,” Sarah says, continuing to find a one hundred percent loan may prove difficult however, if you provide the paper trail, showing income, debt, and a fairly decent credit score, Southern First can help you. “Even if you think your credit score isn’t up to par, at least come in and let me help get you into the right place.”
www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
19
At Home
with TAMMY FERRIS
I
20
by Kari Logan
t is common for home service companies to be handed down through family generations, but that is not the case for the daughter of a Baptist preacher who now sits at the helm of Gene Love Plumbing, Air & Electrical.
Tammy Ferris made her way to the top with a pipe wrench in hand and a entrepreneurial spirit that feeds itself with the reward of keeping the people of Greater Columbia comfortable in their homes. Her commitment to customer service took her from part-time dispatcher to the accounting department to management within three years, under the guidance of business founder Kathy Love. “I was Kathy’s right hand,” said Ferris. “She was a good role model and she groomed me to take over the company. When it came time for her to exit, I bought the business.”
Working in a male dominated industry hasn’t always been easy for Ferris, especially since most people assume she inherited the business from her daddy. She says, “When I became the service manager at Gene Love, I was a red head from the south in fashionable clothes and matching shoes, managing technicians. You can imagine the reaction!” But Ferris refused to take offense. Instead, she stayed focused and persistent. “I could have gone out and sold shoes, but I would rather sell a service that protects the health and safety of our nation and that’s what plumbers do.”
Ferris is a licensed plumber and a well-respected leader and mentor across the continent. She serves as Chair of the Board of Nexstar® Network, an international business development and best practices organization in her industry All Nexstar members adhere to a code of ethics and share a commitment to be simply the best.
Gene Love has served the greater Columbia, South Carolina area for more than 30 years. Their professional plumbing, heating and cooling technicians contain and control water in your home, keep you even tempered and breathing clean air. They guarantee their work. Gene Love has won 19 Readers’ Choice Award for “Best Plumbing Com-
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women
pany” along with other service industry awards, including Nexstar’s Select Service Award. Tammy Ferris and her home service team give back to the community by donating their time and expertise to people in need. They have contributed plumbing upgrades and repairs, sewer cleaning, and furnace and air conditioning installation. With many pet owners on staff, they have a special place in their hearts for Pets, Inc., a program to rescue, care for and find homes for stray or stricken animals. In fact, The Gene Love company “spokes dog” Bucky is now lending his time and talent to the cause by barking up publicity for the organization! Ferris’ sets the tone for success at the top and it flows throughout her entire company, especially the service technicians who carry out her charge to make people comfortable in their homes. “We
For the Home are guests in every customer home and we want to make a positive impression from the moment we walk in the door,” said Ferris. “Our technicians wear shoe covers and they are trained to listen and respond appropriately and respectfully.”
Tammy and Bucky EASTER B’EGG FESTIVAL April 16th from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Photos with the Easter Bunny ($10)
Professional photos of you and your pet or just your pet!
Hotdog Buckets of Fun ($2)
Treat your dog to a dip of floating hotdog slices.
Free Rabies Clinic Bake Sale & Concessions Lots of delicious treats!
Easter B’egg Toss ($10)
Every toss wins a prize valued at $10 - $500! Your dog will pick his winner from hundreds of tennis balls!
Don’t have a retriever?
We can provide one – our dogs love to play with visitors!
Innovation also drives Tammy Ferris. She says she loves introducing new products and services that can make life easier and more comfortable for Gene Love customers. Most often those products are also more efficient, saving energy and money. “We work with water, air and energy, so it’s natural for us to be good stewards of our environment,” says Ferris. “And it’s really great when our customers benefit from it.”
TAMMY’S HOME COMFORT TIPS Containing and Controlling the Water in Your Home Water is a valuable natural resource and it’s important to contain and control it. I do this in my own home with the help of a tankless water heater that gives me endless supply of hot water; even after my husband Norman has taken a long shower. The tankless system has also cut our utility bill by roughly 30%. High-efficiency and low-flush toilets only use 1.6 gallons of water per
flush instead of 7-gallons-per-flush. Upgrading to a more efficient toilet would reduce your water bill and help decrease the massive waste of water that experts estimate is up to 1.6 billion gallons a day. Making Sure You’re Even Tempered Living in South Carolina means we are blessed with an abundance of humidity in the summer months. Humidifiers and other equipment work together with your air conditioner to better control the humidity. Make sure you have an air conditioning unit that fits your home and maintain it, so it will pull the moisture out of the air efficiently and effectively, leaving you cool as a cucumber! Here are some other tips for keeping your humidity at a low level: 1. Vent your dryer well 2. Avoid drying clothes on an indoor clothesline 3. Cover pots when cooking 4. Use exhaust fans in your kitchen and bath
fish tanks, smoke and more. There are proven products on the market that can filter these pollutants inside your home and make it cleaner and safer for your family. Proper maintenance of your HVAC equipment is also a key to energy efficiency. You should clean and check your HVAC system once a year and change your filters two times per year. Good News for Allergy Sufferers If you’ve been denying yourself the love of a pet because of pet allergies, I have good news. There is a new air filter that captures 99% of the airborne dust, pollen smoke, mold spores, bacteria and PET DANDER that pass through the system. It’s not a guarantee for everyone, but it’s been tested with great success. I can’t imagine life without my feline babies Beans and Joni and I would love to have others know that kind of unconditional love. If you suffer from pet allergies, look into getting an electronic air cleaner and then head to Pets, Inc. to foster or adopt a pet!
The Air that You Breathe According to the EPA, the air inside your home is two to five times more polluted than the air outside. Pollutants include skin, hair, dust,
Admission is FREE! Presented by PETS, Inc. and The Carolinas Humane Society. Pets, Inc. rescues and finds homes for pets, while educating on care and encouraging people to spay, neuter and register their companion animals. As a South Carolina Angel Charity, 98.9% of all monies support the animals. For more information, call
(803) 739-9333.
PETS, Inc. Adoption Center 300 Orchard Drive West Columbia www.petsinc.org
I could have gone out and sold shoes, but I would rather sell a service that protects the health and safety of our nation and that’s what plumbers do. — Tammy Ferris www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
21
means more
THE BIG “C” WORD THAN JUST CANCER! by Elaine Clary and Suzy Scott
Sara McCants Dawson (left) and Sheroyn McCormac (right) photo by Clark Berry Photography
L e x i n g t o n Wo m a n c e l e b r a t e s t h e s u r v i vo r i n yo u
T
his story is about two women brought together by their common bond of having had breast cancer. They both were chosen to be bead recipients by Dems Fine Jewelers as part of Dems’ Breast Cancer Survivor Bead Program. Sara McCants Dawson and Sheroyn McCormac did not know each other until then but are now in a group of caring friends who have learned together that the big “C” word can also mean caring, courage, and compassion. Sara had just moved back to Columbia in 2005 to be near her aging parents, Jack and Elaine McCants, to help care for them and to be closer to her three daughters Jessica, Ali, and Dakota. Well, God had the plan for her to return but for a different reason than she thought. One night while adjusting her nightgown, she discovered a lump. It took her two more days before she would touch it again – hoping that maybe it would just go away. There was no cancer in her family history, and she was a runner and ate the way she should to be healthy. She delayed telling her par-
22
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women
ents and daughters that she had breast cancer until the night before her scheduled lumpectomy wanting to spare them the anguish of waiting and wondering. Instead, Sara wanted her family’s only thoughts to be on her recovery from the surgery and the healing treatments thereafter. “No worrying allowed.” Her girls were to only be concentrating on “Mom” getting better - after all, in her mind she’s still the parent here. She had told one friend of her diagnosis who lovingly responded with the deepest conviction, “Well, it’s in God’s hands now, isn’t it?” At that moment, she
lost all fear of the outcome. She felt that if it was God’s will for her to survive, then she would. She felt that no matter what the outcome was, everything would turn out the way it was meant to be. After the surgery, she told the doctor that she didn’t want to know the stage of the cancer. She told him that she had always wanted to own a baby blue jaguar, and all she needed to know was whether or not she needed to go buy one right then. He laughed and said that she had plenty of time to get that dream car. Sara then went
Celebrating the through 8 chemo treatments and 32 radiations. She is today cancer free. Sara felt that being out in public with her scarfcovered bald head seemed to make people uneasy. People just don’t know what to say when they see someone suffering from cancer so she makes it a point to speak to anyone she sees who appears to be going through chemotherapy treatments. She just asks the person how he/she is feeling and lets them know she is a survivor. Sara’s friends say that she has a special way with words that calms the people around her and makes them feel better about whatever disturbance is temporarily occurring in their life. This is one of the many ways that Sara shows care and compassion to others. She has learned through her cancer to not sweat the small stuff – that life is meant to be lived fully, lovingly and generously each and every day! Sheroyn’s journey with cancer began at an early age when her loving father, George Jacobs, was diagnosed with colon cancer. He fought a courageous battle for ten years and was an inspiration to her with his wonderful outlook of optimism and “never give up” attitude. She drew on his strength as she dealt with other family members suffering with cancer and then with her own battle with breast cancer in 2007. Sheroyn and her husband Jim had been planning a BIG 40th wedding anniversary trip to Hawaii. Just before the trip, anticipating the Hawaiian sun, she was using the tanning bed and discovered a lump in her breast. She had found other lumps before but somehow knew this one was different. Most people ask “Why me?” when diagnosed, but Sheroyn’s comment was “Why
not me?” There was so much family history that she figured she should not be excluded when so many others had taken this journey. She had a lumpectomy and 34 radiation treatments and is today cancer free. She is a wonderful example of how important it is to catch this disease early. Sheroyn’s life is a vibrant weave of love and laughter, and her strength comes from her faith, family and friends. Her favorite quote and one that she lives by daily is, “Live, Love, Laugh” and reminds us all to live every moment, love beyond words and laugh everyday. She never meets a stranger and is always spreading her special kind of love and concern to whoever she meets. A special circle of friends formed mainly because of the plight of one of the breast cancer bead recipients. There was “One Amongst Us” who needed radiation for a spot on a lymph node that was very close to her heart. She had already gone through surgery, chemo and radiation and now had to go through radiation again! The group circled around their friend along with other survivors, as she needed a BIG dose of courage, care and compassion. With a promise that at least one person would meet her at the door of SCOA Monday through Friday at 1:00pm for twenty five treatments, the journey began with what true friendship is all about. Most treatments included multiple members of the group. From this small group, a personal and specific prayer was written for their friend, and it was read at every treatment before she would go in. Those who could not be there in person read the prayer at 1:00pm from beautiful bookmarks a member of the group had made. Dinners and lunches were held to celebrate the countdown of the treatments. One night at
Survivor in You!
dinner, it was suggested that the caring group be named so the BFFE’s were born. BFFE stands for “Breast Friends Forever and Ever.” This group is all about helping others – it is indeed all about caring, courage, and compassion. When one has survived cancer, there is a terrible fear that never goes away; and that is the fear of its returning. Most people keep it hidden in their subconscious, but it is always there especially when something on your body starts to hurt or when it is time for your annual tests. The ladies in this caring group know that none of them will ever go through this alone – they are always there for each other helping to handle the fears. Sara McCants Dawson and Sheroyn McCormac are two beautiful examples of why this caring group is so special. They are always showing everyone how to be grateful for all your blessings and to say “thank-you” everyday to God for them. It’s unbelievable how much cancer teaches you about life and its true meaning – just ask Sara and Sheroyn. They both know the real meaning of the words “caring”, “courage”, and “compassion.” So, you see that the BIG “C” word really has much more meaning than just “cancer.”
This article is brought to you by Dems Fine Jewelers. Visit www.demsjewelers.com or call (803) 407-5290.
www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
23
Scarlet Party BENEFITTING
THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION’S
GO RED FOR WOMEN
Thanks to everyone who attended our February Scarlet Party in collaboration with Clark Berry Photography, Cotton Grill, Dems Fine Jewelers, and Vital Energy Therapy. We raised over $3,000 for the American Heart Association! We would also like to thank the following donors and volunteers who made this event possible:
24
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women
• Anytime Fitness • Bella Riley’s Salon and Spa • Café Chartier • Charles T. Hazelrigg, III, D.M.D • Chris Metz Interior • Clark Berry Photography • Cofield Law Firm • Connie Crosby • Creative Nails • Creekside • Dems Fine Jewelers • Dermatology of Lexington LLC – Michelle Welch, MD • Elaine Clary • Envision Family Eyecare • Grace Animal Hospital & Pet Lodge • Grant Digital Media • Janet Phillips • Jean Jones • Kicks Ltd • L.A. Salon & Spa • Lauri Truesdale • M. Gallery Interiors, LLCS • Mae’s on Main • Personalized Things For You • Pieces & Patches • Sarah Truesdale • Sheroyn McCormac • Southern Patriot • Stella & Dot • Suzy Scott • The Chapman Company Fine Jewelers • The Willows • Todd Truesdale • Travinia Italian Kitchen • Trey Duncan • Ultimate Gourmet Gift Baskets • Vital Energy Occupational Therapy • White Knoll Dentistry • Wingate by Wyndham of Lexington
photos by Clark Berry Photography
www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
25
Health & Wellness
DOUBLE the DOUBLE the
love, joy
by Susanne Liggett
submitted by Shirley Keels, Columbia Women’s Healthcare
C
ollin and I met while at Coker College in Hartsville, SC, where he played baseball and got a degree in Physical Education, and where I socialized and received degrees in English and Communication. Collin and I still can’t agree on when we first met. (He remembers meeting me earlier than I remember meeting him, but I’m nearly certain I fell in love first!)
Five years later, Collin and I were married in Hartsville on July 15, 2006. Collin was teaching PE at Summit Parkway Middle School and was the assistant baseball coach at Spring Valley High School. (He still holds both positions.) I was working as an admissions counselor at Coker College and attending night classes to earn my teaching certificate; one year later, I began my career as an English teacher at Ridge View High School, where I remain today. Collin and I were happy in our marriage and in our jobs. We supported our students in their athletic and artistic pursuits, and we tried to help them in any way we could. While we loved our students, we decided it was time for our own family. Since we were both young and healthy, we’d anticipated an easy road to pregnancy and parenthood. At my yearly check up with Dr. Mary Neuffer of Columbia Women’s Healthcare, I told her of our frustration at not yet having conceived a child. She assured me that it was not uncommon to take six months or more to conceive. She explained that if, after a year, we were still un-
26
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
successful in our quest, there were tests and medicines that we could use to help us with the process. I left her office feeling much better. Our magic number was twelve months. It was early July. I was working part-time at Coker College, and Collin was out of town for a baseball tournament in Atlanta, GA. I took a home pregnancy test, and it was positive. I was elated! I wanted to tell Collin our exciting news in person, but he wasn’t due back for three days. When he called me that morning, the first words out of my mouth were, “WE’RE PREGNANT!” Collin and I were excited about our pregnancy, but we know how critical those first 13 weeks are. We decided to wait to tell our news until after the first trimester. Just before our eightweek appointment I experienced some minor difficulty. I was terrified. I called the nurse at Columbia Women’s Healthcare; she was kind and suggested an ultrasound to make sure everything was ok. Olivia, our ultrasound technician, asked if we were ready to hear our news. Collin and I were nervously holding hands, preparing ourselves for the
Real Women
worst. Olivia told us that everything looked great, and that she detected two heartbeats. Collin and I were expecting twins!!! I’m nearly certain that neither Collin nor I could breathe for the next few minutes.
Olivia told us that everything looked great, and that she detected two heartbeats. When Olivia said that she needed to check to see if she could find a third heartbeat, I thought Collin might fall out of his chair! Fortunately for Collin’s health, there were only two babies. Expecting twins threw a kink in our plans to wait until we had made it through the first trimester to tell anyone. We just had to tell our families and closest friends. Collin’s parents live in Irmo, so we were able to
tell them first. We wrapped up two bibs and gave it to them as a “thankyou” gift for all that they do for us. They knew immediately what the bibs represented, but it wasn’t until we stressed to them that they would need to use both that it sunk in that we were having twins. They were so excited!! Mama and her husband Len have helped us with various projects at our house, so we asked if they could help us paint our office. We showed them two color swatches, one pink and one blue. They didn’t react immediately, although Mama knew those weren’t colors I would normally choose. Then we told them that we might have to stripe the room using both colors. That’s when we got a BIG reaction! We chose to use our traditional Christmas list to tell my dad and his wife, Mrs. Bet. We told Daddy we were giving them the list early, so they could think about it. First on the list was an SUV. That got his attention right away because a vehicle is certainly not in the price continued on next page
Craving quality care? Take care of that craving and we’ll take care of you.
tending to the unique nature of women 1301 Taylor Street, Suite 6-J, Columbia, SC 29201
803-254-3230 columbiawhc.com
www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
27
Health & Wellness
Hudson Annabelle and Wylie Grace range for a Christmas gift. Next on the list was a dual stroller. Again, Daddy stopped. He said, “A dual stroller? What in the world do you need that for?” That’s when Mrs. Bet caught on. She looked at me and Collin, and by this time Daddy had made it down to the bottom of the list where he read “lots of diapers and lots of wipes.” My dad was so excited that he insisted that we leave his house and go tell my brother. I said that we could wait until after dinner, but Daddy said that he couldn’t! The school year began. Dr. Neuffer warned me against too much exercise since I was carrying twins. When we went for our 25-week check up on December 20th, I was put on complete bed rest. I spent one night in the hospital, so the doctors could monitor me for contractions and other changes. Scared is an understatement of how I was feeling. Dr. Odom and Dr. K. Moore came by several times to check on me. They were helpful and informative, alleviating some of the stress of the situation. On December 21st, I was allowed to go home. I went to my weekly doctor’s appointments at Columbia Women’s Healthcare; otherwise, I was at home, lying or reclining on the couch, or lying in bed. While I would much rather be at work teaching my wonderful students (I miss them terribly), I was happy to do whatever it took to get my little girls here safely! Bed rest was not fun, but it must be more tolerable today than it was a generation ago. I used a home monitoring system twice a day to monitor uterine contractions. I sent my monitoring strip to a nurse via a wireless connection,
28
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Dentistry for the Whole Family! Children are welcome! (ages 1 and up)
www.whiteknolldentistry.com
Bed rest was not fun, but it must be more tolerable today than it was a generation ago. who read and reported the information. Medically, I felt safer because of the marvels of technology. I cannot imagine how dreadful bed rest must have been 20 years ago. It’s not exciting these days, but modern technology helped me get through it. I used a laptop computer to keep in touch with my school, my students, and my friends, and my cell phone allowed my family to get in touch with me regularly.
Call us at
(803) 359-3245 today for an appointment
5545 Platt Springs Road Lexington, SC 29073
Dr. Melissa Kaufholz
Our days leading up to the birth were exhilarating, exhausting, demanding, frightening, and fulfilling. Collin and I eagerly awaited our baby girls, Hudson Annabelle and Wylie Grace. Life is good, and we are blessed.
New Patients Welcome!
Hudson and Wylie finally arrived on March 10, 2011. Collin and I are thrilled and grateful to Columbia Women’s Healthcare, our families and friends and especially to God for such a wonderful outcome.
Look where we found Lexington Woman! Ella and her mom, Danielle, won tickets to the circus through a contest on our facebook page. This article is brought to you by Columbia Women’s Healthcare. Visit columbiawhc.com or call (803) 254-3230.
Real Women
Don’t miss out – “like” us to participate in future contests!
Ella Guidotti at the Circus!
Find us on facebook!
Relieving Pain for 30 Years At Midlands Orthopaedics, P.A., our team of highly trained specialists provide comprehensive care for the entire family: • Neck and Spine • Knees and Shoulders • Hands and Arms • Sports Injuries
• Foot and Ankle • Joint Replacement • Pediatric Ortho Care • Diabetic Wound Care
• Outpatient Surgery Center • Epidural Steroid Injections • Nerve Conduction Studies
Trust your family’s orthopaedic health to our family of caring physicians at Midlands Orthopaedics, P.A. Ortho PM & Saturday Hours* Monday – Friday, 5:00pm – 7:00pm Saturday, 8:30am–10:30am *Some insurance restrictions may apply.
www.lexingtonwomanonline.com MID110302 30th ad_LW.indd 1
29
3/7/11 3:49:41 PM
I’m not training for the Iron Man, but for my Silver Anniversary. For over 20 years we’d planned a trip to Paris for our Silver Anniversary. But then I had back surgery, and I was worried I couldn’t make the trip. I knew right then that I needed to elevate my fitness level, and I found the help at Health Directions, Lexington Medical Center’s wellness center. It’s like a fitness club, but because it’s affiliated with the hospital, you get a highly-trained staff that doesn’t just throw you into a room with machines. They set realistic goals to make sure you get the results you’re looking for. I got my results, and now I’ve got my tickets to Paris. www.LMCHealthDirections.com
HD color 8x5.12.indd 1
Occupational Therapy
1/13/11 2:38 PM
Physical Therapy
Our goal is to achieve mental and physical wellness through our combination of Complementary/Alternative therapies with traditional Occupational Therapy. OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: • Occupational Therapy • Physical Therapy
Pediatric Therapy
Aquatic Therapy
• Sports Physical Therapy • Reiki Therapy • Pediatric Therapy • Aqua Therapy
• Fibromyalgia/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome • Chronic/Acute Pain • Migraine Headache Treatment • Yoga/Personal Fitness • Neuro/Ortho Injury Rehab
• Scoliosis Rehab • Myofascial Release Treatment and Craniosacral Therapy • Rheumatoid/Osteoarthritis Therapy Underwater Treadmill
Reiki Treatment
Hima N. Dalal
Occupational Therapist Reiki and Myofascial Release Consultant Sports Personal Fitness Consultant
30
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women
• Work Reconditioning
• Hand Therapy
• TMJ Therapy
• Cancer Rehab
www.vitalenergytherapy.com FM/CFS Support Group Meets Monthly
803.359.1551
163 Charter Oak Road Lexington, SC 29072
LEADING THE BATTLE
Against Skin Cancer: Lexington Medical Center Offers Melanoma Screening
by Jennifer Wilson
Lexington Medical Center
D
id you know that Lexington County has a significantly higher than average incidence of skin cancer compared with the rest of South Carolina? In fact, Lexington County ranks as one of the top counties in our state for melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, according to information from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control. That’s why Lexington Medical Center is paying special attention to skin cancer prevention before the beginning of the summer months by sponsoring a free skin cancer screening, meeting our hospital’s mission to provide quality health services that meet the needs of our community.
Lexington County ranks as one of the top counties in our state for melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer... Lexington Medical Center will partner with Palmetto Dermatology on Friday, May 6th to hold a free skin cancer screening inside the office at 115 West Hospital Drive in West Columbia on the Lexington Medical Center campus. You can make an appointment through Lexington Medical Center’s Community Outreach department to be screened by dermatologist Jeff Smith or a physician assistant who specializes in dermatology. Upon arriving at the appointment, you will fill out a questionnaire related to family and medi-
cal history. Then, you will receive a full body skin cancer screening that looks for any suspicious lesions on the skin. If the doctor or physician assistant finds something that appears suspicious, they will refer you to a doctor’s office for further inspection. Participants will also receive educational information about skin cancer.
According to statistics, melanoma cases have been increasing for the past 30 years, especially in young women. Researchers have noted a 3 percent increase each year since 1992 in women ages 15 to 39. Melanoma, which can occur in teens and young adults, is the second most common cancer of women in their 20s.
“There’s a high incidence of skin cancer in Lexington County,” said Connie Watson, director of Community Outreach at Lexington Medical Center. “The screening is a great way to serve the public and prevent individuals from dying of melanoma.”
Doctors encourage living healthy lifestyles and avoiding unnecessary excessive exposure to natural and artificial UV radiation. They also emphasize the importance of monthly self exams and yearly dermatology checkups in an effort to achieve early detection. Moles with the following characteristics should prompt concern: • Asymmetrical borders • Dark colors or multi-colored • Diameter larger than a pencil eraser • Evolving
According to Dr. Jeff Smith of Palmetto Dermatology, melanoma can be a very dangerous disease. Although it only makes up 3% of skin cancers, it is responsible for 75% of skin cancer deaths. Other than breast cancer, it is the most common form of cancer for women under 40. Sun protection, prompt detection and aggressive management are keys to treating melanoma. If caught early, the cure rate is nearly 100%. But if the melanoma has invaded the lymph nodes, only 65% of patients are alive after 5 years. If the melanoma has metastasized or spread to other organs, only 1 in 6 patients is still alive after 5 years. It can also be difficult to see. Some melanomas start with something as small as a spot between your toes.
Once a diagnosis is made, doctors perform prompt and appropriate surgical intervention. Lexington Medical Center’s cancer program is accredited by the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer, with commendation. If you would like to make an appointment for the free skin cancer screening, please call Lexington Medical Center’s Community Outreach office at 803-936-8850. Lexington Medical Center hopes the screening promotes greater awareness of the risks of skin cancer and provides some early detection. For more information, visit www.lexmed.com. www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
31
THE CALLING by Tyler Ryan
photography by Clark Berry Photography
“M
y son Matt was a preemie,” says June Maranville of The Palmetto Language and Speech Center. He spent the first three and a half months of his life at Baptist and after several surgeries and many ups and downs, he came home at the ripe old age of four months. Over the next couple of years, Matt continued to struggle with health and developmental skills.
“Being keenly aware of the great blessing she had in Matthew and feeling a strong need to give back,” she took the advice of her cousin, a Speech Language Pathologist, who suggested she also look into the field. June, who was looking for an area that would allow her to help others, followed that recommendation, and hasn’t turned back since. She obtained her Masters at the University of South Carolina, successfully completed her clinicals, and has continued to build her expertise with a strong passion for helping her patients. In November two thousand six, she opened her practice.
June points out that speech and language problems can isolate people and cause frustration, but says that with proper therapy the problems can be minimized and often times eliminated. “Our patients range from a year old to seventy-eight,” says June. She points out those speech problems can affect anyone at any age. Children may have a delay, or have “bumpy speech,” speech sound, or language processing issues which can limit early learning. A stroke can cause aphasia, which leaves it’s victims with difficulties expressing their thoughts. Wounded warriors
are another group of individuals that can suffer with language issues related to traumatic brain injury. Even things like a raspy voice, or problems with a dialect and accents can be addressed by a speech therapist. Over fourteen million people in America have communication and language problems. It’s this large number that have motivated experts, caregivers, and those who, like June, wanted to give back, to support the creation of the Midlands Special Needs Foundation in two thousand six. The mission of the MSNF is to address issues which face not only
people with developmental disabilities, but also the families that are impacted. The MSNF works to empower families by giving support and educating the community.
Over fourteen million people in America have communication and language problems.
PALMETTO LANGUAGE & SPEECH CENTER Language and Speech Therapy for Children and Adults
(803) 356-9833 109 Vista Oaks Drive, Suite A Lexington, SC 29072 June K. Maranville, MSP, CCC-SLP, IMC 32
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women
www.plsclex.com
Health & Wellness
Beads designed by Dems Fine Jewelers in support of the Midlands Special Needs Foundation
Southlake Village offers resort style living with no long term commitment. Whether you are looking for an apartment, garden home or patio home, we have a floor plan to meet every need. * Mention this ad and receive a $99 Move-In Special!
Call us at (803) 356-1158 to set up a complimentary lunch and tour!
The Board of Directors, and associated professionals who make up and support the MSNF have various backgrounds, yet all share the same goals. June also said that many people and businesses in the community have picked up the torch and done a great deal to help. She mentioned Dems Fine Jewelers as an example. Dems has even designed a bead which supports the MSNF, as a way to create awareness, provide some much needed funding, and inspire others to get involved. “(At) the Palmetto Language and Speech Center and as a stakeholder in our community, we believe we can facilitate and embrace this for all children – regardless of challenge,” says June. “I have great respect for the families we serve and know each journey is different. I would never pretend to walk in their shoes. June Maranville is very passionate about her chosen
profession and hopes that with information will come enlightenment about not only the issues that can be overcome with speech and language therapy, but also the mission of the MSNF. Oh, and as far as Matt? Matt graduated from The Citadel in May 2010 and is now working in Charleston as an analyst at SpaWar. SpaWar stands for Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command.
Learn more about the Midlands Special Needs Foundation at www.midlandsspecialneeds.org and how you can help. If you would like to contribute, donations can be sent to 109A Vista Oaks Drive, Lexington, SC 29072.
Bead it to BEAT IT! Dems Fine Jewelers is honored to help raise awareness and funds for local charities through our Bead It to BEAT IT! program. Through this program we custom design beautiful beads that fit on bracelets, necklaces and earrings. The beads fit most popular brands such as Chamilia, Trollbeads and Pandora. These beads have raised over $20,000 for local charities including the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, SCOA Cares Foundation, Lexington Medical Center Foundation and the Palmetto Health Breast Center.
123 Gibson Road Lexington, SC www.southlakevillage.net
Fabulous new beads are now being introduced for Chemo With Style, Midlands Special Needs Foundation, Lexington Woman Magazine and the American Heart Association. Look for our beautiful new collection of beads for newly nominated cancer survivors that will be introduced this Spring! We are blessed by the many people we have met through the sharing of their journey through our Bead It to BEAT IT! program. Thank you for your support!
www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
33
Comprehensive Skin Care for the Entire Family Medical and Cosmetic Dermatology Skin Cancer Screening Acne, Eczema, Warts, Psoriasis Botox • Fillers • Chemical Peels Laser Treatments Exclusive medical grade skin care line now available! Call for details.
803.951.1717
Dr. Michelle D. Welch
200 Caughman Farm Road, Lexington (Behind Lowes)
Board Certified Dermatologist
www.dermatologyoflexington.com
SPECIAL OFFER:
50% off all sunblock!
Accepting New Patients!
(Expires May 31, 2011)
Monday – Friday 8:30am to 5:30pm Saturday by appointment only
Spa Services
Spa Medical Director: Dr. Michelle D. Welch Like us on Facebook!
• Facials • Massage Therapy • Microdermabrasion • Body Treatments • Pampering Spa Retreats
Salon Services
• Manicure • Pedicure • Full Service Hair Salon • Bridal Services
Boutique
• Exclusive Dermatology of Lexington Skin Care Line • GloMinerals Makeup • OPI Polish • Gift Baskets and More
SPECIAL OFFER: Facial, massage, or mani/pedi BOGO free with this ad! (Expires May 31, 2011)
Our Hours: Mon 9am–6pm • Tues – Thurs 9am–7pm Fri 9am–6pm • Sat 9am–4pm • After Hours Private Parties Available Gift Cards available online, in the spa boutique or at Dermatology of Lexington, LLC
Now located in the same beautiful 10,000 sq ft building as Dermatology of Lexington, LLC
803.808.7747 • www.elantedayspa.com • 200 Caughman Farm Road • Lexington (Behind Lowes) 34
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women
Meet
Dr. Michelle Welch
of DERMATOLOGY OF LEXINGTON, LLC and ELANTE DAY SPA & SALON
by Lori Samples Duncan
photo by Kimberly Pollard
I
t was a leap of faith that lead Dr. Michelle Welch to open her private practice in Lexington South Carolina. I have had several occasions to meet Dr. Welch and spent a little time getting to know how passionate she is about her patients. Some people are lucky enough to turn their passion into a career, once such person is Dr. Michelle Welch. Dr. Welch’s first love is her family. After speaking with her it was clear to me that a strong faith guides her life choices and is the backbone of the integrity with which she runs her medical practice and Spa. She is the proud mother of two academically talented and athletic children, Matthew and Abby. Matthew is a freshman at Clemson this year and Abby is an active middleschooler. Abby is quite a softball player, or so I heard from her glowing mother. I had a chance to meet Abby and Matthew when Matthew cut a trip to the beach short to come home and take his little sister to her softball game. When she spoke of both her children her eyes were bright with love and maternal tenderness. Not only is Dr. Welch a devoted mother, she is a loving daughter caring for her aging parents. It was at the Grand Opening of her recently acquired Elante Medical Day Spa, located in the beautiful and spacious facility that now houses both her medical practice and the Spa, that I was able to meet some of Dr. Welch’s patients. Her commitment, the dedication she feels toward her patients, is obvious to even an outside observer. I watched as a lady embraced Dr. Welch. She began to share how this sweet lady had come to Dermatology of Lexington, LLC to receive advice on hair loss. It was at this visit Dr. Welch noticed a spot on the lady’s arm. Dr. Welch, after much persistence, was allowed to biopsy the spot. That
attention to detail and the extra effort she made ensured the quality of care given earned her patient the title of “skin cancer survivor.” Throughout the evening I met many of Dr. Welch’s fans. I met women who shared how Dr. Welch helped them or a family member with a procedure or a skin problem. I met women who
on how blessed she and her family are by the gracious people of Lexington and the surrounding communities. I believe that the personal attention she gives to her patients and staff is a testament of that gratitude. To give back, she is very active in the local community with various volunteer organizations and her church family at Mount Horeb United Methodist Church. Dr. Welch mentors
photo by Clark Berry Photography
When she spoke of both her children her eyes were bright with love and maternal tenderness. Dr. Welch with her son Matthew spoke highly of the spa and watched a line of women form to wait for their own massage by an Elante employee with “magical hands.” I heard Dr. Welch greet her guests by name and even lean closely to privately inquire about a medical issue that he or she may have seen Dr. Welch about. She was approachable to every person who walked through her doors and she runs her practice the same way. Dr. Welch comments regularly
and teaches USC medical students, physician assistant students, and she donates time and services to local school events and charities as well. For example, she was key in procuring a grant for both Lake Murray Elementary and Pleasant Hill Elementary schools which provided sun shades for the students. She continually donates items and services for silent auctions and various charity events. continued on next page www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
35
Health & Wellness
GRAND OPENING NIGHT
photos by Clark Berry Photography Dermatology of Lexington and Elante Day Spa & Salon are located in one 10,000 square foot facility. Dr. Welch’s recent acquirement, the Elante Medical Day Spa and Salon, is a much needed coupling of complete medical dermatology services with a fully comprehensive cosmetic skin care practice. Dr. Welch offers the latest tech-
clients can feel pampered while receiving the best medical treatment available. Clients and patrons are rewarded with a very private, relaxed experience in the most state-of-the-art, beautiful facility in the area.
Dr. Welch offers the latest technology and the most effective skin care products and services to deliver the best results. Dermatology of Lexington’s own skin care line nology and the most effective skin care products and services to deliver the best results. Her commitment to do so has even lead to the creation of her own skin care line that allows her to offer pharmacy grade skin care products at a fraction of the cost of more expensive brands. Her excitement grew as she talked about how many more men and women would be able to afford to take care of their skin because of the lower price points of this product.
Dr. Welch feels blessed and honored to serve our community and will continue to strive for excellence to provide the highest quality of care.
Look for Dr. Welch’s new column coming this summer from Lexington Woman titled “SkinTalk”. This column will be a staple in each upcoming issue and will help educate readers about various dermatological issues with knowledge and experience from Lexington’s only board certified dermatologist.
Bringing Dermatology of Lexington and the posh Elante Medical Day Spa & Salon together in one extraordinary 10,000 square feet locale provides Lexington with a full service spa facility where
36
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
See Dr. Welch’s On the Couch interview online at www.lexingtonwomanonline.com.
photos by Clark Berry Photography
Real Women
Dr. Boone brings her extensive experience of treating acute and chronically ill patients as a family physician to provide preventative family medicine care at The Medical Place Family Practice. Her focus is to effectively care for the whole person with compassion in a high quality healthcare setting.
Dr. Tasha M. Boone 3020 Sunset Blvd., Suite 101, West Columbia, SC 29169 Office: 803.791.5680 | Fax: 803.791.1680
www.themedicalplacefp.com
Call Now to Make Your Appointment
• Weight Loss
• Facials
• Personal Training
• Massage
• Bariatric Fitness
• Male and Female Personal Trainers
• Geriatric Fitness • Toning
Sneh Patel Exercise Physiologist
(803) 467-4217
Email: vitalenergyfitness@gmail.com
• Nutritional Consulting • Ayurvedic Diet
• Under Water Treadmill • Aqua Detox
www.vitalenergyfitness.com 163 B Charter Oak Road Lexington, SC 29072 www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
37
Health & Wellness
Now I See B
by Tyler Ryan
y some estimation, over eight million American’s suffer from some form of retinal disease. Dr. David Johnson, an Ophthalmologist with Palmetto Retina Center, believes that number does not have to continue to increase. “Medications and other interventions can often times stop further vision loss,” says Dr. Johnson, but the “key is early detection.” Dr. Johnson explains that if you think of your eye as a camera, the retina is the “film.” The retina is a very thin, nerve layer that lines the back wall of the eye. Although some vision problems can be corrected with the use of glasses or even lasers, if there is a problem with the retina it requires a very different approach. According to Dr. Johnson, the prevalence of many retinal diseases increases with age. Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of blindness in patients over the age of fifty-five. Approximately two million people in the United States suffer from the advanced forms of the disease. There are two types of AMD, wet and dry, and here is where the math gets tricky. Although the dry form
makes up approximately ninety percent of AMD, ninety percent of AMD related blindness comes from the wet form. Fortunately, newer medications that have become available within the last decade have dramatically decreased the number of patients going blind from the disease. One of those treatments for wet AMD is an actual injection into the eye. With these treatments, ninety percent of patients are able to maintain vision and forty percent are able to experience vision gains. With the more common dry form of AMD, there are some practices, in theory, that will help slow the disease down. “Overall health, exercise, eating a good diet, certain vitamins, and protecting your eyes from sunlight” can all play an active role in protecting vision.
AMD, or any retina affliction is not always preventable. Genetic predispositions for many retinal diseases, including AMD, exist and many of these diseases can run in families. Another common disease that Dr. Johnson and his colleagues treat is Diabetic Retinopathy. It is the leading cause of blindness in South Carolina. Diabetes is a blood vessel disease that tends to have a direct impact on the retina. Once again, early detection of damage is critical to preventing blindness. “Most of the time, you can prevent vision loss with early detection and intervention,” says Dr. Johnson. In diabetics, “control of blood sugar and blood pressure is critical in helping to maintain vision.” Beyond the injections we spoke
Medical & Surgical Diseases of the Retina & Vitreous
Dr. David Johnson
about, there are other potential treatments for retinal diseases. Those treatments include laser and other surgical methods. Although the only part of the eye that can currently be helped with a donor transplant is the cornea, Dr. Johnson feels that, the future may provide more options for retinal diseases, such as stem cell transplantation. The clear overall message is early detection. So, what are the signs that might signal that something is amiss? Vision loss with many retinal diseases is often a slow process, so it often goes unnoticed by the patient. However, distortion or blurriness of central vision can be a symptom of AMD. Floaters, bright flashing lights, or a shadow could also indicate a potential problem, such as a retinal detachment.
W. Lloyd Clark, M.D. David L. Johnson, M.D. John A. Wells, III, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Make An Appointment: 803.931.0077 | 124 Sunset Court • West Columbia 2750 Laurel Street, Suite 101 • Columbia | 1170 Boulevard Street, Suite E • Orangeburg
Visit www.palmettoretina.com to learn more about our ongoing clinical trials. 38
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women
Pets
VETERINARY CSI:
How to Find Disease in Your Pet
by Tim Loonam, DVM
T
he good news is our pets are living longer, and nothing contributes more to the long life of your dog or cat than regular visits to your veterinarian. Your pet can’t talk and often shows no sign when something is wrong. Medical advances, particularly in laboratory testing, enable veterinarians to diagnose potential disease before they become lifethreatening (and expensive!) issues for your pet. Early Detection is Key to Your Pet’s Health! At Grace Animal Hospital we recommend wellness laboratory testing before your pet enters their ‘golden years’. A 7-year old dog is about 4456 in human years and a 7-year old cat is more like 40-45 human years. As our pets age, monitoring becomes even more important and early detection through regular exams and lab testing can help detect underlying disease earlier. (Notice I said nothing about taking your pet for ‘shots’…)
• If detected early, 75% of common diseases in
dogs and 63% of common diseases in cats can be prevented by dietary modification alone over a one-year period. • Kidney disease is a major cause of illness and death in dogs and cats, but owners are unaware of signs until two-thirds of kidney function has been lost. With early detection, your pet can live with kidney disease for years. • Early detection of diabetes is extremely important because an early treatment plan can be
more effective and easier on your pet. Detecting and monitoring diabetes early can also prevent damage to other organs. • Assuming that all tests are normal, lab testing can provide your veterinarian with baseline date for future healthcare needs, and it can give you the most important thing: peace of mind. Wellness laboratory testing for early disease detection is available during out-patient visits with most results available the same day or by the next morning. The lab tests will usually include a blood chemistry panel, a complete blood count (CBC), urinalysis, and a thyroid screen. Using the information gained from this evaluation your veterinarian will provide you with an assessment of your pet’s overall health and make any necessary recommendations. Veterinary medicine at its core is ‘preventive medicine’. Lining up outside in a vacant lot for ‘shots’ from an out-of-town mobile vet who doesn’t keep descriptive, life-long medical records of your pet
As our pets age, monitoring becomes more important and early detection through regular exams and lab testing can help detect underlying disease earlier. does little to prolong your pet’s life. Sadly, many owners do this because they’ve been taught that ‘yearly shots’ are all they need. Quality pet health care begins with regular, comprehensive physical exams and wellness testing and can add years of vitality and extend your pet’s life. Schedule an appointment with a Lexington veterinarian and ask how early disease detection can add years together with your pet. So remember… “If you love your pet, take ‘em to the vet”!
"Complete, Compassionate Care From Your Other Family Doctor"
Grace Animal Hospital
and Pet Lodge
Small Animal Medicine and Surgery
Goats, Sheep and Llama Services
Small Animal Dentistry
Nutrition and Retail Products
Equine Services
Referral and Consultation Services
Pharmacy and Laboratory Behavior and Training Consulation
Pet Lodge
Tim Loonam, DVM Owner/Veterinarian
803.808.PETS (7387) | www.gracepets.com 147 Charter Oak Road | Lexington, SC 29072 www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
39
Professional
Life Really Is Greener
by Tyler Ryan
“E
ach year more and more people are recognizing the benefits of purchasing, utilizing and creating products that serve both the benefits of clients and the environment,” says Raven Yonemura, Director of Marketing, with the new eco-friendly Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites Columbia-Airport. The folks at Holiday Inn, located in West Columbia at highway 378 and I-26 know about how to give things new life through repurposed items and materials that often end up as trash. When you walk into the hotel, you notice the television giving you a three dimensional look at all the features of the hotel, but when you see them up close and personal, you get a feeling for how recycling really can work. From the mesh curtains made from aluminum cans in the café lounge to the deck furniture that was once plastic milk jugs, there is not only a commitment to being “green,” but a flair for style also. “Our engineer built us a podium and portable bars out of one hundred and twenty year old barn wood…they are very contemporary.” She said they found the wood on Craig’s List, then made a trip to a local scrap yard and found old street signs for the metal finishing. It’s the commitment to a green mission that led the staff at the new Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites to hosting a retro extravaganza, celebrating Earth Day and the one year anniversary of the Midlands first “green” hotel. A “Junk to Funk” event will be held on April
28th, about a week after Earth Day, and will be a celebration of the Hotel’s one year anniversary. Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites has partnered with local schools to help spread the message. Raven says that the Art Department at Brookland-Cayce High School has been working on a mural that they want to present to the hotel. “It’s a scene the kids depicted from nature, and will be unveiled at the event.” A fashion show is planned, where students will model outfits created from everyday items that some might consider junk or even trash. Also invited are local artists who are environmentally conscious and embrace the idea that “new life exists in everything.” The key simply is creativity, “You just have to see what new potential lies in everyday items that you don’t want to end up in a landfill.” Raven also shared websites and forums you can find online that celebrate natural resources, and repurposing others, such as www. craftingagreenworld.com, www.junkmarketstyle. com and www.re-nest.com, which all provide design ideas and great information on ways to make your home greener and more efficient. The Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites is just one business that understands the benefits and need to be
‘This isn’t a trend, this is a movement,’ Raven says. mindful of repurposing products. Raven pointed out that there are many local merchants that have stepped up to the green plate. “KD’s Treehouse has a full line of organic clothing for kids and toys made from recycled wood, Creative Tile provide products made from recycled glass and Roof ’s Basket Works recycle all of their wood waste making sure nothing is wasted in the creation of their products.” There are companies that make fences from waste wood, recycled grocery bags and other plastics, others use popular local trees, which are renewable even companies that go the extra mile to utilize recycled packaging. “This isn’t a trend, this is a movement,” Raven says, and one that is here to stay. “From recycled tire mulch at your local home and garden store to the option of green burial services there is no lack of green influence right here in the Midlands.”
Unwind after a long day at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Columbia - Airport. Our eco-friendly design offers relaxing features such as our saltwater filtered pool and comfortable furniture made from sustainable materials. Wrap up with a good book and some Green Forest Alliance coffee in our café lounge or enjoy the comforts of room service and a late night dessert through our Sporting News Grill restaurant. No matter how you choose to unwind you can slip between the sheets of our signature bedding and count on a good night’s sleep.
Columbia - Airport
• • • •
Sporting News Grill Restaurant Saltwater filtered pool Cardio Fitness Center Wired & Wireless Internet
• • • •
24 Hour Sundry Shop Business Center & Board Room Meeting & Banquet Facility Free Airport Shuttle
FOLLOW:
Located just off I-26 at exit 110 (Hwy 378) 110 McSwain Drive, West Columbia, SC 29169 | Tel: 803.391.4000 | Fax: 803.391.4001 | www.holidayinn.com/westcolumbia
40
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women
Professional
The Southern Patriot by Lori Samples Duncan
photo by Clark Berry Photography
T
he Southern Patriot is a splendid all wooden boat and can be found most evenings serving dinner somewhere on the waters of Lake Murray. We had the privilege of being on this particular boat two years ago with a group of lovely ladies and had a marvelous time! I also took a purple martin cruise on the Southern Patriot and enjoyed every moment with my children and mom.
Call to subscribe or advertise with us!
(803) 785-4475 www.lexingtonwomanonline.com Look us up on Facebook!
This tour boat of Lake Murray has both opened and closed seating as well as dinner options. You can take a business group to entertain or for a two hour interruption free sales meeting. It would also make an excellent place for a rehearsal dinner for a spring or fall wedding. The Patriot will cater your event or you can hire your own caterer. The laid back professional Captain and crew were most helpful to me and others on each of the occasions I have visited the Southern Patriot. What I love about this 65 foot all mahogany boat is the character and the memories that she carries along the waters. Joy Downs, one of the Southern Patriot owners, has used the Southern Patriot more than once to help local charities, ours included. At our Scarlet Party she donated an entire 40 person cruise for our live auction! Over
$3000 was raised for the American Heart Association. The Southern Patriot’s contribution played a large part in the funds raised. If you are looking for an event venue for one hundred people or less this beautiful boat can accommodate you. It’s the perfect place for a family reunion or a team party for a sports group! I can guarantee people will be talking about how much fun they had on the South-
What I love about this 65 foot all mahogany boat is the character and the memories that she carries along the waters. ern Patriot for years to come. Call Joy Downs today and book a purple martin cruise and check it out.
Visit them online at www.lakemurraytours.com to learn more, or call (803) 749-8594. See their ad on page 8. www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
41
Professional
Ginny Jones Is Hitting
HER PEAK!
by Mandy Rivers
photography by Clark Berry Photography
I
t is an easy enough statement to make about someone that she is a successful business woman. Some folks may characterize it simply that if one can maintain her career that she, in fact, is successful. In an interview with Ginny Jones of Peak Employment Solutions, it became pretty clear that Ginny’s idea of success is defined with much higher expectations.
Ginny Jones and her business partner, Mike Frazier, have been in the employment profession for over twenty years each. After working for another organization together and honing in their talents over the years, they opened their own agency. Ginny told us, “Our goal was to establish an agency that would allow us to, in Mike’s words, ‘do the voodoo we do,’ while doing it for the mutual benefit of both our clients as well as for us.” Vision, drive, creativity, tenacity, focus, and consistency are characteristics Ginny attributes to being a successful business woman. And she’s quick to point out the necessity of having a strong team, “A successful business woman or business person in general is only as successful as the team she aligns herself with.” We asked Ginny if she felt she had accomplished all of those characteristics and she responded that on many levels she had, however, businesses are like plants… if you are not growing, you are dying. About success Ginny said, “The major key to success in business is developing trusted relationships and having the ability to listen to what the customer wants and needs then providing them with exactly that.
42
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
You must be a progressive thinker yet never allow yourself to forget the tried and true simple philosophy of providing good old fashioned customer service.” Ginny’s vision for her business is to create an organization on which her clients know they can rely and to provide them with any and all resources they require in order to grow and maximize their business potential. Whether it be in procuring and retaining talent, reducing client liabilities, risk management or any other employment related needs crucial to maintaining and growing their business, Peak Employment Solutions is ready to customize their services to what works for their clients. Peak is consistently implementing new and innovative initiatives to ensure the goals of their valued clientele. To reach her vision Ginny says, “We simply need to remain consistent in our philosophies, creative in our initiatives, and driven to the success of our organization as well as to the success of those we are committed to servicing.” Ginny and her partner wanted to expand their business (from their original location in Augusta) to Lexington years ago when they
Real Women
identified the Lexington area as a thriving area for all levels of business. They determined the time was right to establish themselves in the area in order to better service clientele in the Greater Columbia and surrounding areas. We asked Ginny what differentiates Peak Employment Solutions from other agencies and she responded with, “What differentiates us is our proven ability to provide the level of customer service our clients deserve and have come to expect. We offer full service and customized options to assist in everything from procuring and retaining necessary talent, administering payroll and benefits, risk management, personnel training and development, and a host of additional employment related resources to aid our clientele in accomplishing their mission. With Peak you have a true partner committed to the success of your organization! We have the ability to aid you in increasing your production while decreasing your liabilities resulting in maximized potential and increased profits! We understand business and what it takes to
be successful and we are committed to treating your business as we treat our own. Our goal is to save your TIME, MONEY, and SANITY!!!” Being a successful business woman doesn’t end at the office for Ginny. When asked about balancing her personal and professional success, she said, “My family and my business
Vision, drive, focus, tenacity, creativity, consistency are characteristics Ginny attributes to being a successful business woman. are of course my top priorities; however, each aspect has to feel they are the number one priority. Regardless of what has occurred or how tired I may be at the end of the business day, when I am home it is all about my family. At the same time my family understands that during business hours, my focus has to remain on the success of the business.” Running a successful business and family while being loyally devoted to both, Ginny Jones is hitting her peak!
Professional
ABLE TO PROVIDE SUPERIOR STAFFING AND FULL SERVICE EMPLOYMENT SOLUTIONS WITH A SINGLE CALL Turn Help Wanted into Help is on The Way.
803.356.PEAK (7325) Lexington/Columbia
140 Gibson Road Suite A Lexington, South Carolina 29072
White Knoll High School Wrestlers Celebrate Individual Wins
Coach David Huffstetler, WKHS Wrestlers Asa Gossett, Phillip Austin, Zach Dicus, WKHS Coach Kevin Emily and WKHS Wrestler Jamal Lackey celebrate individual wins at the South Carolina 4A Wrestling Championships.
www.mypeaksuccess.com
Augusta: 706.228.PEAK (7325) 211 Hudson Trace, Suite C/D Augusta, Georgia 30907
Gilbert High Wrestler Honored
Dr. Karen Woodward and Wrestling Coach Tracy Gooding congratulate GHS Freshman Madison Leitner (center) for his 2011 SC Boys Individual Championship title in the 103-pound weight division in the 2A/1A Wrestling Tournament.
Emmaus MedSurg Clinic
Lexington High Wrestler Honored
Dr. Karen Woodward and Wrestling Coach Derek Strobel congratulate Alex Morales (center) for his selection by the SC Wrestling Coaches Association as a member of Team SC and the 4A/1A South team in the 2011 Best Western Ocean Sands North/South All-Star Classic.
General Practice & Surgery We accept adult patients as well as children 2 years old and older. We accept the uninsured and offer reasonable fees. We provide complete physical exams, advice on staying well, ongoing care for basic medical conditions (diabetes, hypertension, etc.), minor trauma, office surgical procedures (removal of skin lesions, soft tissue masses, vasectomies, spider vein treatment, etc.) as well as procedures appropriate for surgi-center care (hernia repairs, certain biopsies, surgical treatment for pilonidal cysts, gynecomastia, etc.).
Now accepting new patients!
Bert B. Oubre, MD, FACS
Call (803) 359-0164 for your appointment
www.emmausclinic.com
669 Barr Road Lexington, SC 29072 www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
43
Professional
The Test of
TIME
by Tyler Ryan
“B
ack then, a top of the line bed would cost sixty-nine dollars,” says Harry Wills, as we walked through nearly sixty years of custom furniture and mattress making machines in the factory just off Huger Street. Downtown Columbia has been home to the Southern Bedding factory for nearly six decades. Harry started the company in 1951 at the location where the main post office on Assembly Street is today. Three years later, he built the downtown 32,000 square foot facility, and has not moved since. Over the years, Harry and his family have built a successful business, which has not only endured several economic slowdowns, employed some one hundred twenty-five people, but also is proud of the fact that at least one employee has been with them for over fifty-three years. There have been a lot of changes over the years not only in the bedding industry, but also in the products offered at Southern Bedding, including the way beds are sold. “As we have gone along we always try to improve our lineup of products,” says Harry. By the mid-sixties, Southern Bedding had over one hundred employees making household furniture like coffee tables, end tables, dinettes, chairs and more all manufactured in their building. “We later began making fancy Cherry wood Queen Anne tables,” says Karen pointing to some still used in their office today. By the late eighties they dropped much of the furniture and focused solely on mattress making and accessories.
44
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Friday’s were once spent on Main Street with Harry going up and down the road calling on various stores that sold furniture. As the number of stores decreased, Southern Bedding began transitioning directly into the retail market, selling to consumers who wanted custommade, locally produced mattresses offered at thirty percent LESS than
‘As we have gone along we always try to improve our lineup of products,’ says Harry. the larger retail stores. Harry chalks this up to overhead. The big stores have a lot of operational costs, employees, advertising costs, and more expenses than Southern Bedding does. These extra costs simply do not have to be passed along to the customer when buying from Southern Bedding. With all the changes seen in business, one thing has not changed – word of mouth. Much of Southern Bedding’s
Real Women
photo by Grant Digital Media
Karen Lanier and Henry Wills marketing is still referrals from people who have loved their products for years. “What sets us apart is our reputation and quality,” says Karen. “Someone who stands behind their product goes a long way.” Another distinction that Southern Bedding is proud of is the fact that everything is made in South Carolina at their facility. Over the years, all six of Harry’s children have been involved with the company in one capacity or another. Currently, Karen runs the business, but that doesn’t keep Harry from still making calls. “He still goes out and calls on people,” Karen said with a smile. “He’s still out trying to get new business at 91.” Although the days of one hundred employees are gone, Harry, Karen, the Wills family and employees like Eugene “Gene” Blume still remember them fondly. Gene came to work for Southern Bedding right after high school. Good management is the reason Gene has worked for the business for almost forty years.
He points out his brother, Jerry, recently retired after fifty-three years of working for Harry and the Wills family. After nearly sixty years, eleven U.S. Presidents, many boom and bust economies, Southern Bedding is still producing a quality custom bed, which is often less expensive than the chain stores’ beds. The best part is that they aren’t slowing down yet. Oh, that sixty-nine dollar bed? It’s not sixty-nine dollars anymore, but the hands that built it still sew the Made in South Carolina tags onto the mattresses. The success of the business that the Wills family has built is from the product and the work ethic that has endured for 60 years. “I’m sure we could charge a good bit more,” says Karen, making the point that reputation is more important than an extra dollar. “People know we’ll be here.”
To learn more, visit www.SouthernBeddingofColumbia.com.
Business & Web Directory Animal Hospital Grace Pets Animal Hospital................. 39 www.gracepets.com
Locally owned & operated since 1951
Art and Entertainment Carolina 92.1 FM................................... 37 www.new92.com olonial Life Arena.........................10, 18 C www.coloniallifearena.com Lake Murray Tours.................................. 8 ww.lakemurraytours.com w Lexington County Recreation and Aging Commission........................ 15 www.lcrac.com
Come visit our on-site factory showroom featuring reversible pillowtop mattress sets & beautiful bedroom furniture all made in South Carolina.
e Chapman Company....................... 13 Th www.thechapmancompany.com
The Tyler Ryan Group........................... 18 ww.tylerryangroup.com w
Banking and Investments Southern First........................................ 19 www.southernfirst.com
OB/GYN Columbia Women’s Healthcare........... 27 www.columbiawhc.com
Boutique Mae’s on Main........................................ 47 www.maesoflexington.com
Photography Clark Berry................. Back Inside Cover www.clarkberry.com
Dentist White Knoll Dentistry.......................... 28 www.whiteknolldentistry.com
Plumbing, Air & Electrical Gene Love Plumbing, Air & Electrical...................................... 18 www.genelove.com
Furniture Southern Bedding of Columbia........... 45 www.southernbeddingofcolumbia.com Health Services Emmaus MedSurg Clinic..................... 43 www.emmausclinic.com idlands Orthopaedics, PA................. 29 M www.midlandsortho.com e Medical Place Family Practice...... 37 Th www.themedicalplacefp.com
Want to make your home more efficient? See page 20 for home comfort tips from Gene Love’s own Tammy Ferris.
Marketing Services Grant Digital Media................................ 7 www.grantdigitalmedia.com
Assisted Living Southlake Village................................... 33 www.southlakevillage.net
Palmetto Retina Center........................ 38 ww.palmettoretina.com w
www.southernbeddingofcolumbia.com
Insurance The Smoak Agency................................ 47 www.allstate.com
onkey Joe’s........................................... 47 M www.monkeyjoes.com/lexington
Eye Care Envision Eye Care.................................... 7 www.envisionfamilyeyecare.com
(803) 765-9630
Holiday Inn & Suites............................. 40 ww.holidayinn.com/westcolumbia w
M Gallery Interiors, LLC........................ 9
Dermatology Dermatology of Lexington................... 34 www.dermatologyoflexington.com
400 Calhoun Street • Columbia, SC 29201
Hotels Holiday Inn Express & Suites................. 3 www.hiexpress.com/lexington
Jewelry Dems....................................................... 23 www.demsjewelers.com
LXM 107.9.......................................... 14 W www.lakemurrayradio.com
Quality bedroom furniture sets and custom-made mattresses
Palmetto Health........ Inside Front Cover ww.palmettohealth.org w
ital Energy Fitness Studio.................. 37 V www.vitalenergyfitness.com ital Energy Rehab Center................... 30 V www.vitalenergytherapy.com
Realtor Sally Lucas Homes................................. 16 www.sallylucashomes.com Restaurants Cotton Grill.............................................. 5 www.cottongrill.com ravinia Italian Kitchen.......................... 4 T www.traviniaitaliankitchen.com ummie Creations, Inc........................... 9 Y www.yummiecreations.com Salon and Spa Elante Day Spa and Salon..................... 34 www.elantedayspa.com uei Aveda Salon & Spa....................... 47 H www.hueisalonspa.com Speech Therapy Palmetto Language and Speech Center........................................ 32 www.plsclex.com Staffing Agency Peak Employment Solutions................ 43 www.mypeaksuccess.com
Hospital Lexington Medical Center.... Back Cover www.lexmed.com www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
45
A Personal Note
I
can’t believe it is April already. This year is already filled with wonderful memories of our family. We continue to celebrate how unique each of the children are and their individual gifts. Trey’s leadership class did a project where each of the children were instructed to write something positive about the other students in the class room and anonymously give the feedback to each other. What a wonderful thing to sit down and read what each of the other students said about my son. What a wonderful thing for my son to read from his peers. Each student put thought into their words and at a time in a young person’s life when they are so desperately seeking approval and direction, I thought this exercise was timely and inspired. Wouldn’t it be fun to start an email strain that listed something positive about each person on the list?
Trey
Abby has won the role of Professor Marvel in the school play, and she is absolutely hilarious. She will be singing in the talent show this spring at her middle school and I am so excited. I heard her practicing and the soft lilting notes of her sweet voice brought this sentimental mother to tears. She sang the words with such feeling. Wow, I am incredibly proud of the compassionate young woman she is becoming. Colton “the Sultan of Swing” (the nickname his t-ball coach gave him two years ago) had his first double of the season, and again his emotional mother cried. I was truly proud of his hard work paying off for him, to see that big smile, those blue eyes light with joy, watching as they searched the crowd for his father, lighting on him and grinning full as his dad gave him the thumbs up… oh friend, that is the good stuff. Though his pop fly to the outfield gave me pleasure, the true blessing came after the game. He stood in a circle with his friends and after his Coach gave the speech (you know the speech), he then asks if anyone has any questions and my Colton says, “ I would like to say something.” The coach gives him the go ahead and Colton the giver, the encourager, says to his teammates. “Daniel had a great catch out there today!“ He looks over at his friend and leans across the huddle and high fives him, “That was awesome!” That’s my boy. And the baby, sweet, loving and totally confident Ryan. This is his first year of t-ball, and I laughed hysterically as he hit his first ball and then proceeded to chase it straight to the pitcher’s mound! I laughed until my sides hurt as the whole side line tried directing my strong willed four year old to first base. The Coach and I breathed a sigh of relief as he finally made it to first. I honestly don’t think we ever got him to cross home plate, but after the game when I asked if he had fun, he gave me that big Ryan smile and said “YES!!!” In the grand scheme of things, that is all that is important anyway.
Abby as Professor Marvel
Colton “the Sultan of Swing”
Blessings, blessings, blessings… Our lives are filled with so many wonderful blessings. No matter what is going on around me, how difficult my day may be, or how others would try to hurt or discourage me… my God has blessed us so tremendously. May God continue to bless you,
Lori Samples Duncan
Numbers 6:24-26 The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.
Ryan 46
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women
“Our mission at Aveda is to care for the world we live in, from the products we make to the ways in which we give back to society. At Aveda, we strive to set an example for environmental leadership and responsibility, not just in the world of beauty, but around the world.”
Have your next birthday party with us!
(803) 808-5637
(803) 996-1689 5135B Sunset Blvd. Lexington, SC 29072
4586 Sunset Boulevard Lexington, SC 29072
www.HueiSalonSpa.com
www.monkeyjoes.com/Lexington
$20 off
2 FREE PIZZAS with your next birthday party
Any Highlight or Color with Haircut at Huei Aveda Salon & Spa Lexington Woman Magazine
(Expires 7/15/2011)
15% off
Bring in this coupon to Monkey Joes of Lexington and receive 2 free pizzas with your next birthday party.
ANY SERVICE at Huei Aveda Salon & Spa
Lexington Woman Magazine
Lexington Woman Magazine
(803) 359-4545 121 East Main Street Lexington, SC
DOLLAR FOR DOLLAR, NOBODY PROTECTS YOU LIKE ALLSTATE. I can help you save money now. If you could pay less for insurance, but still get more protection, why wouldn’t you? Drivers who switched to Allstate saved an average of $348 a year. Don’t wait! Call me today.
The Smoak Agency (803) 808-7295 200 North Lake Drive Lexington yvettesmoak@allstate.com
Serving stylish women in Lexington for over 30 years
$10 OFF purchase of $50 or more Lexington Woman Magazine
Call or stop by for a free quote. Savings based on national customer-reported data for new policies in 2009. Actual savings vary. Allstate Fire And Casualty Insurance Company: Northbrook, IL. © 2010 Allstate Insurance Company
www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
47
Don’t miss an issue – subscribe today!
CELEBRATIN AND EDUC G, MOTIVATING, ATING Real WOMEN
G
G, AND EDUCATIN
POST FAM ON Y UPDAIL TE
CELEBRATING, MOTIVATIN
Real WOMEN
We have good news share abou to t this beau tiful family! Heating and Cooling
Hea
HEALTrt H
Lo
ve STORIE S
Local wom how they en tell us met their own swee thear ts!
For TER RY
HOME GLADFE
Cayce, Chapin,
LTER
Heart is...
Lexington, West Columbia, Irmo, Cay
ce, Chapin
THE
One year (5 issues) for $20
White Knoll Columbia, and
, Columb
ia, Irmo,
Lexington, Wes
t Columb
ia, and Wh
G
G, AND EDUCATIN
POST FAM ON Y UPDAIL TE
Real WOMEN
We have good news share abou to t this beau tiful family! Heating and Cooling
Hea
HEALTrt H
Have each issue of Lexington Woman delivered to your home
Lexington hear t focuswomen share ed articles and tips
IS WHERE
CELEBRATIN AND EDUC G, MOTIVATING, ATING Real WOMEN
CELEBRATING, MOTIVATIN
Have each issue of Lexington Woman delivered to your home
Lexington hear t focuswomen share ed articles and tips
Lo
ve STORIE S
Local wom how they en tell us met their own swee thear ts!
For TER RY
HOME GLADFE
IS WHERE
Cayce, Chapin,
LTER
Heart is... THE
One year (5 issues) for $20
ia, and White Knoll on, West Columb
Lexingt Columbia, Irmo, Cay
ce, Chapin
Don’t miss an issue – subscribe today!
, Columb
ia, Irmo,
Lexington,
West Col
umbia, and Wh
ite Knoll
ite Knoll
Complete this card, and mail it along with your check or money order of $20 to Lexington Woman at 711 East Main Street, Suite K2, Lexington, SC 29072.
Complete this card, and mail it along with your check or money order of $20 to Lexington Woman at 711 East Main Street, Suite K2, Lexington, SC 29072.
Name:
Name:
Address:
Phone Number:
Email Address:
Address:
Phone Number:
Email Address:
CELEBRATIN AND EDUC G, MOTIVATING, ATING Real WOMEN
Receive a $5 gift card
Real WOMEN
We have good news share abou to t this beau tiful family! Heating and Cooling
Hea
HEALTrt H
Lo
ve STORIE S
Local wom how they en tell us met their own swee thear ts!
auto quote.
For TER RY
HOME GLADFE
IS WHERE
Cayce, Chapin,
LTER
Heart is... THE
One year (5 issues) for $20
ia, and White Knoll on, West Columb
Lexingt Columbia, Irmo, Cay
ce, Chapin
, Columb
ia, Irmo,
Don’t miss an issue – subscribe today! Have each issue of Lexington Woman delivered to your home
Lexington hear t focuswomen share ed articles and tips
when you visit The Smoak Agency and request a FREE
G
G, AND EDUCATIN
POST FAM ON Y UPDAIL TE
CELEBRATING, MOTIVATIN
Lexington,
West Col
umbia, and Wh
ite Knoll
You cannot currently have an Allstate policy.
Complete this card, and mail it along with your check or money order of $20 to Lexington Woman at 711 East Main Street, Suite K2, Lexington, SC 29072.
Name:
The Smoak Agency
48
Address:
200 North Lake Drive, Lexington, SC 29072
Phone Number:
Office hours are Monday-Thursday 8:30am-5:30pm and Friday 8:30am-5pm. Weekend meetings by appointment only. 24-hour customer service.
Email Address:
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women
www.lexingtonwomanonline.com
49
I’m a breast cancer survivor… a patient advocate… a mother… a patient of Lexington Medical Center.
Kelly Jeffcoat, Breast Cancer Nurse Navigator
Women’s Services at Lexington Medical Center was created for all the women you are.
www.lmcWomensServices.com
When it comes to breast cancer, Kelly Jeffcoat has an interesting perspective. Not long after coming to work at Lexington Medical Center as a breast cancer advocate, she was diagnosed herself. With her extensive oncology nursing background, she had long held a passion for helping patients. You’ll find many people like Kelly here, where Women’s Services at Lexington Medical Center offers women the finest care available. Anywhere.
Lexington Medical Center has recently been awarded accreditation from the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). 50
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women