Lexington Woman Magazine by Woman 2 Woman Enterprises

VOL 6, NO 4

COMPLIMENTARY

CELEBRATING, MOTIVATING, AND EDUCATING WOMEN

Real

BACK to SCHOOL! It’s that time of year again, and we have advice to share from local experts!

TEAM Schmitz We introduce you to the husband and wife team who inspire others on a daily basis

Mrs. Patricia MOORE-PASTIDES ONE ON ONE with THE FIRST LADY of the UNIVERSITY of SOUTH CAROLINA

In this Issue

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Lori Samples Duncan (loriduncan86@gmail.com)

MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES

Crystal Poston Cathy Williams (info@lexingtonwomanonline.com)

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Ruth Chapman Judy H. Cook Lori Samples Duncan Ashby Jones Shirley Keels Tim Loonam, DVM Beth McCrary AnnMargaret McCraw Tripp Newsome Elaine Samples Matthew Spain Pam Criscione Ubl Ryan Wetzel, MD

COVER PHOTO

Robert Patrick Image Design

DESIGN

Melissa W. Morris Beth Bouknight, Intern

PHOTOGRAPHY Chris Varnadoe Clark Berry Photography Faith S. Turner Robert Patrick Image Design

From the Editor

2 School’s Back in Session!

Events

3 What’s Happening?

Things We Love!

4 Things We Love about Lexington!

Let’s Talk

5 7 8 9 10 12 14 16 18

Talk of the Town with Mayor Randy Halfacre “C” the Light Lexington’s Halfacre Achieves South Carolina’s Chamber “Executive Of The Year” Recipe: Heirloom Tomato Salad A Tale of Two Quarterbacks... Good Dads are Awesome Love for a Cure 2012 The Ashby Chronicle: Girls’ Night Out Team Schmitz... Inspiring Others Daily

Pets

Find us on facebook!

Lexington Woman Magazine Woman 2 Woman Publishing (803) 785-4475 602 Northwood Road 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. © 2012

20 Obesity: Why are we feeding our pets to death?

The First Lady of USC 22 Patricia Moore-Pastides

Fashion Show

24 2012 JDRF Fashion Show

Celebrating the Survivor in You!

26 A Tribute to Survivor Cynthia Weaver

Back to School

29 30 32 33 34

Back to School: Don’t Leave Out Your Technology! Homeschooling with the Lewis Family Is Your Child Getting Enough Sleep? South Carolina Future Scholar Savings Plan Going Back to School? Occupational/physical Therapy Helps School Children

Health & Wellness

37 39

The Doctor Is In: You Ask, Pediatricians Answer What is Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation?

Business & Web Directory 41 Contact our Advertisers

Personal Note

44 Answered Prayers

BACK to SCHOOL!

Check out our special section starting on page 29

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

ummer is at its end, and we are gearing back up for routines and cooler weather! God has been good to us in the Carolinas. We have some of the best weather in the country. Each passing season brings new opportunities and the endings to old ones.

I don’t ever want to forget to thank you for your faithfulness in reading Lexington Woman Magazine. A lot of work goes into bring these stories to you. It is always rewarding to meet a new reader or a long time reader and hear their feedback on a recent issue or a story we shared that gave them hope or inspired them to change their own situation. So, thank you again for reading! We always want to hear what you think. Feel free to send me a personal email, or pick up the phone and call me. Your comments and suggestions are welcome. It is through the continued support of our advertisers that each issue is made possible, enabling us to bring Lexington Woman Magazine to your home, business, and to local merchants, as well. Be sure to visit them and tell them where you found them! Each of the businesses in these pages have made a commitment to you for excellence, and we personally send everyone we know to them! This issue features pictures from our Spring Fashion Show to benefit JDRF. All of our models are survivors, and each one of them is an inspiration. Check out Craig Reagin and Mae’s on Main to find the Fashion on those pages. It is our hope that you will be inspired by the stories and articles contained here and take a moment to be grateful for the many blessings in your life. Happiness is all about perspective. Like the old song says, “Don’t worry — be happy!” Remember to visit our Survivor section to read about a local cancer survivor. We tell these stories to give you hope and inspiration until a cure is found. Don’t miss our upcoming “Surviving the Holidays” Fashion Show on November 6th. Bring a friend — it is always a great time! For most of us, school will be or is already back in session. Can I get an “Amen” for routine!?! I am very excited about all the great things for Lexington residents to do in the upcoming seasons. Until next time… your friend,

Lori Samples Duncan Editor-in-Chief

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

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Ecclesiastes 3:1 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven.

Events

What’s HAPPENING? Brewskis, Bourbon & Butts on Butler August 25, 5 – 10 p.m. Butler Street, Lexington

As the summer festival season continues, join us on West Butler Street for the inaugural Brewskis, Bourbon & Butts on Butler. Enjoy music all evening long, a nice cold beer (included in your ticket price), bourbon tasting, sample BBQ from area restaurants, BBQ contest judged by Rod Lorick, local football star and an array of vendors ready to make a summer evening in Lexington one to remember! Advanced tickets are $25 and $35 at the gate. www.bbbonbutler.com

Girls on the Run Starting in September Lexington Middle School

Lexington Middle School will be a host site for Girls on the Run starting in September of the 2012-2013 school year. GOTR promotes physical, emotional, social and intellectual development in 3rd through 8th grade girls. The girls complete the 12 week program with a stronger sense of identity, greater self-confidence, a healthier body image and a better knowledge of what it means to be a member of a team and a community. For more information and to register, visit the site below. www.gotrcolumbia.org

Chapin Labor Day Festival September 1 – 3 Chapin

If it’s wholesome family fun you want, it’s here every Labor Day weekend in Chapin, “The Capital of Lake Murray.” The 5K Walk/Run in Crooked Creek Park benefits Meals on Wheels. There’s also a gospel concert, an after-church picnic, a model train display, and barbecue. The festival boasts one of South Carolina’s biggest parades, as well as a “Chapin Idol” talent contest. Look for a book sale, children’s carnival, dunking booth, and truck show. For the Midlands, it’s summer’s last hurrah. And a chance to see your favorite politicians. For more information, visit the website below. www.chapinsc.com

SERVING THE MIDLANDS

(803) 356-8080

Wine & Waltzes Gala Fundraiser Event September 28, 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. The River Center, Saluda Shoals Park

Waltzes. Held in the serene setting of The River Center in Saluda Shoals Park, expect an evening filled with scrumptious foods and wines while being serenaded by live music. During the course of the evening, you will have an opportunity to browse and place bids towards unique items provided in their Silent Auction. Following dinner, the dancing begins in earnest as the Lake Murray Symphony Orchestra performs timeless musical favorites. All proceeds from this event make it possible for the LMSO to continue providing quality live concerts for the next season. More details can be found at the site below. www.LMSO.org

Linda Biggs 5K for IPF – A Quest for Cure September 29, registration at 8:30 a.m., walk starts at 9:00 a.m. Lake Murray Dam (Irmo End)

The 5K will benefit the Coalition for Pulmonary Fibrosis (CPF), a nonprofit organization to accelerate research efforts for a cure, while educating, supporting and advocating for the community of patients, families, and medical professionals fighting this disease in South Carolina and other states across the nation. The sponsorship deadline is September 3rd. You will need to register by September 10th to be guaranteed a t-shirt for the event. To register or for more information about sponsorship, visit the website below. www.firstgiving.com/coalitionforpf/ LindaBiggs5K

2012 JDRF Columbia Walk to Cure Diabetes November 4, registration at 1:00 p.m., walk starts at 2:00 p.m. Colonial Life Arena

The JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes brings people together in a healthy activity for a worthy goal. The Walk is fun for families and builds camaraderie among company employees. It provides hope, empowerment and a sense of community. Your participation shows your commitment to the large scale movement to conquer type 1 diabetes one step at a time. Your personal contribution and fundraising efforts support JDRF-funded research that will help those living with the disease to look forward to longer, healthier lives. Take your first step by registering today at the website below! www.jdrf.org

The Lake Murray Symphony Orchestra is pleased to present their Third Annual Gala event, Wine and

www.midlandslandscape.com www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Things We Love!

Things We

About Lexington! by Lori Samples Duncan Subway at The Corner Pantry in White Knoll Great service, great subs, great people!

THE MITCHELL HOUSE & GARDENS LEAP YEAR WEDDING SPECIAL

ther figures to our children. Let’s remember to pray for wisdom for our coaches as well as our children and their safety this football season!

Bee Healthy Medical Weight Loss and Wellness on Hwy 378 I love the staff, especially Ms. Vicki Gore! She has a passion for helping people change their lives!

Aloette Cosmetics

Marry the Love of Your Life

They give you a blemish free look and your skin feels so smooth and rejuvenated. This is also a local employer of many women! Call Ms. Judy Cook to find about career opportunities or a wonderful skin care regimen!

2012 Leap Year Special Only $500

Lexington Sports! It’s time for Friday night lights again. Check out the Airport High School quarterback and his offensive line at the kickoff to Fall football at Gilbert High School.

We love our coaches too! I convinced Airport High School coaches to pose for a shot the same night as well. These men sometimes are mentors and even fa-

Airport High School Players

The Patriot Riders I have never felt such pride as I stood on the side of the road when two recent families lost husbands and sons to the war. I saw so many of you out waving red, white, and blue flags in support and encouragement for these families. I am so proud to be a Lexingtonian. We continue to pray for the Meador and Rawl families.

Airport High School Coaches

Includes: Beautiful intimate wedding ceremony, Professional Offician and Director, Romantic Wedding Music, Wedding Cake, Champagne Toast, Punch Fountain, Bride’s Bouquet, Romantic Candles, seating for 25 guests in the Camellia Room

(803) 359-5325 WWW.MITCHELLHOUSEANDGARDENS.COM

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Let’s Talk

TALK

of the town

with MAYOR RANDY HALFACRE

appy Summer! This is a special time to engage in history and show family and friends the true meaning of independence, while taking in the sights and sounds of fireworks throughout the Midlands. It is also a time to fly “Old Glory” and sing “God Bless America”, certainly the land I love, as I know you do too!

Quality Bedroom Sets and Custom-Made Mattresses

Locally owned & operated since 1951

July is also a time for Council to embark on the new fiscal year. For us it is a celebration, as we can happily say for more than 20 years, the Town has NOT raised taxes, an achievement we can certainly be proud of and attribute to our healthy growth. In fact, during that time, our millage rate has actually decreased twice, a true testament to our dedication to providing the best service without burdening, you, the tax payer. Also, Council and myself were pleased to pass the FY 2012 – 2013 budget, which includes all first year projects for the Vision

Come visit our on-site factory showroom featuring reversible pillowtop mattress sets & beautiful bedroom furniture all made in South Carolina.

400 Calhoun Street Columbia, SC 29201 www.southernbeddingofcolumbia.com

During the course of the next six months, you will see the following projects begin: I20/Sunset Blvd. (US 378) Interchange Beautification Project, Fourteen Mile Creek Trail, and a revamped Holiday Celebration. BIG things are happening in the Town of Lexington and we are delighted to have your support. Follow the progress of VisionLexington at our website www.lexsc.com. May you and your family celebrate BIG things of your own this summer! God Bless America! Randy Halfacre, Mayor Town of Lexington

New Members of the Chamber (As of July 2012) • ADCO • Always Money • At Your Service • Best Built Barns • Blue Ribbon Pet Styling • Classic Systems, LLC • Cumulus Media • David R. Walters Photography • Department of Social Services • Diversified Computer Solutions Inc.

(803) 765-9630

Plan – VisionLexington. This great achievement allows us to further our goal of making Lexington the place you want to call home. It is the community you want to live, work and to educate and raise your family.

• Dr. Richard E. Boyd Orthodontics • Dupre Catering & Events • Earth Available Realty, Inc. • Five Point Solutions • Giuseppe’s Fuoco Traveling Wood-Fired Pizza & Cuisine

• Gutter Pro Inc. • JDM Building Group, LLC • Judy’s Cafe & Bakery • Kent Collins Law Firm • Klinh Evelyn Grace Photography • Liquor Depot LLC • Mary Kay/ Debi Washburn-Sykes • Meetze Plumbing • Midlands Kid’s Directory • Mini Warehouses of Columbia • Mobile Attic • Providence Family Medicine Lexington • Rainy Day Pal Books • RV Soft Inc. • Sanctuary Pastoral Care Center • Shutter Booth

• Southeastern Insurance Consultants, LLC • Strategic Partner • Sysco Columbia, LLC • The Medallion Conference Center • The Money Store • Timothy G. Driggers • Titanium Crowbar LLC • United Cerebral Palsy of South Carolina • Winnie & Max

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Rhythmics Performing Arts & Athletics

Bouknight Pumps, LLC Pump & Water Conditioning Sales & Service Serving the Midlands for over 60 years

Building Active, Creative Kids Is Our Passion! • Pump Installation, Service and Repair

• Art • Break Dancing/ Hip Hop

• Well and Irrigation Systems

• Dance • Drama

• Softeners and Filters

• Karate

• Reverse Osmosis Systems

• Music

• Home Remodeling Services

• Parties & Special Events

(803) 309-9646

803-356-3063

224 Turbeville Circle • Leesville

www.rhythmicsonline.com 1106 Two Notch Road • Lexington, SC 29073

www.bouknightpumps.biz

Timeless and Tasty

There’s No Place Like Home! Helping People Maintain Affordable, Quality, Independent Lives 1 — 24 Hours • Infants to Seniors

803-358-8315

4768 Sunset Boulevard, Suite 7 Lexington, SC 29072

www.brightstarcare.com

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Let’s Talk photo by Clark Berry Photography

“C” the LIGHT by Judy H. Cook

Judy Cook

hile most of us are aware of Vitamin C’s roll in the body for strengthening the immune system and assisting in wound healing, its skin benefits are just as dramatic and well-documented. Vitamin C, also know a ascorbic acid, is central to the production of collagen — the main protein in the body’s connective tissue and the source of the skin’s firmness and definition. A recent study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition linked a higher intake of Vitamin C to generally better skin appearance in women between the ages of 40 and 74, marked by fewer less pronounced wrinkles and increased hydration. In addition to fostering skin elasticity, Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant and an effective tyrosinase inhibitor working overtime to thwart the assault of UV-induced free radicals which can catalyze melanin production and lead to photodamage and hyperpigmentation. When

added to sunscreens and anti-aging formulas, Vitamin C acts as a performance enhancement component, boosting protective and repairative properties to prevent cellular DNA damage and reduce inflammation. Let us show you our Vitamin C powder to add to your daily regimen and “C” the difference. Judy Cook is the President of Aloette of Central South Carolina and has been in the business for 30 years. She is the mother of two and grandmother of 3. She has always believed in her mission for her company to empower women to reach their full potential ﬁnancially, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. Her office is located at 4721 Sunset Boulevard in Lexington, and you can reach her at (803) 808-1818.

A recent study linked a higher intake of Vitamin C to generally better skin appearance in women...

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Let’s Talk

Lexington’s Halfacre Achieves South Carolina’s Chamber

“EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR”

andy Halfacre, president/CEO of the Greater Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, has been named South Carolina’s Chamber Executive of the Year by the Carolinas Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. The award was presented July 19 at CACCE’s annual conference on Pawleys Island. “His sense of regionalism, cooperation, and intergovernmental relations stood out,” said Liz Horton, the 2011 South Carolina Executive of the Year, who helped judge the contest. Halfacre’s nomination also pointed out that membership had increased 17 percent since January 2010, membership retention was more than 80 percent, and a revamped website created sponsorship opportunities and revenue that topped $70,000, all during the worst economy in recent times. “We really noticed that $70,000,” added Horton, executive director of the Kershaw County Chamber and Visitors Center in Camden. The CACCE Executive of the Year Nomination Committee bases its decision on specific accomplishments relating to the nominee’s effectiveness in addressing challenges, work development and implementation, fiscal management, community involvement, stature and leadership in the community; personal attributes, and professionalism. “There was an excellent slate of candidates and accomplishments,” said Susan Vaughan McPherson, CACCE executive director. “Randy’s work was award-winning in several categories.”

Coalition to improve the region’s inter-jurisdictional cooperation and relations between both the public and private sectors, and galvanizing the legislative battle to keep Amazon in Lexington County. Supporting Halfacre’s nomination were Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin, Lexington Rep. Todd Atwater, Lexington District One Superintendent of Schools Karen Woodward, First Community Bank President/CEO Mike Crapps, Lexington Chamber board chairman Mike Flack, and immediate past chair Barbara Willm. Though names and locations are deleted from nomination materials, it wasn’t hard for judges to discern Halfacre was being nominated because of his civic service as Lexington’s mayor, Horton said. He is the only known person in the country to serve simultaneously as

erybody would be able to do that.” Halfacre became the Greater Lexington Chamber’s president/CEO in 2007. The Newberry native graduated from the University of South Carolina in 1970 and has lived in Lexington since 1975.

development opportunities for chamber of commerce executives and staff members in North and South Carolina. The organization was formed in 1994 when the North and South Carolina state chamber associations merged.

“From my perspective, getting an award of this nature is analogous to successful economic development practices and strategies,” Halfacre said. “It’s a ‘team sport’ with many different moving parts and players. Consequently, I could not have received this award without all the support and cooperation of many, many individuals, particularly the ‘blue chip’ staff at our Chamber. You can’t vie or win championships without ‘blue chip’ players!”

The Greater Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center strengthens and promotes economic prosperity, public policy, quality of life and workforce development in the greater Lexington community and MidState Chambers Coalition region. A nonprofit, 501 (c) 6 organization, the GLC&VC represents more than 900 businesses and 30,000 employees.

CACCE is a professional development organization dedicated to improving the professional

The fact that he can maintain and wear those two hats so seamlessly —that was pretty impressive... mayor and head of a local chamber of commerce.

Halfacre’s nomination detailed his public policy work, including organizing the MidState Chambers

“The fact that he can maintain and wear those two hats so seamlessly—that was pretty impressive,” Horton said. “I don’t know that ev-

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Let’s Talk

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Heirloom Tomato Salad by Jason Palmer, Cotton Grill Chef

Heirloom tomato salad is a great way to enjoy the fruits of the garden with a great summer feel.

Shake vigorously for a minute or so and let sit in a cool place for a day or 2 until the pepper flavor really is incorporated.

Ingredients • orange juice • balsamic vinegar • 1 cup olive oil • 1 tablespoon fresh cracked pepper • Heirloom tomatoes • sea salt

Salad

Balsamic Glaze

Slice the tomatoes about a 1/4 of an inch thick and place on a plate so the ends just overlap. Drizzle the peppered infused oil and the balsamic glaze around the tomatoes. A little goes a long way here and you can always add more if you want.

Using equal parts orange juice and balsamic vinegar, bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Cook until little bubbles appear and sauce becomes think and sweet.

Peppered Infused Oil To make peppered infused olive oil (I like pure or if you can find it a good French olive oil is great), combine 1 cup oil and 1 tablespoon of fresh cracked pepper (typically I like to use a blend of different peppercorn but black will be just as good).

Farm fresh not chilled fresh picked Heirloom tomatoes. Any varietal will be great. There is a wide variety of tomatoes to choose from. Pick the ones that best suit your taste and texture pallet to ensure a great meal.

I love to finish with some black sea salt or Hawaiian pink sea salt. Kosher salt will work just as well though.

803.414.9601 www.ironfit.us

In the Old Mill • 711 East Main Street, Lexington

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

photo by Chris Varnadoe

photo by Faith S. Turner

A Tale of Two Quarterbacks… by Beth McCrary

oth Delvin Riley and William Hunter have grown up playing football in Lexington County since they were old enough to register for the Lexington Youth Football program. Both have been multi-sport athletes through the years, often playing against each other on recreational football, Dixie Youth Baseball, and middle and high school sports teams. Many residents of Lexington and the Midlands know their names and accomplishments throughout the years. As the start of high school football is just weeks away, once again all eyes will be on these two young men as they lead their teams in the quarterback position. Here’s a look at both young men and what they bring to the playing field for White Knoll and Lexington High Schools.

Delvin Riley Delvin Riley is a senior at White Knoll High School and finds himself back in the role of quarterback for his team. It is a position he is quite familiar with, but has not played regularly since middle school. No worries, because this young man is an athlete with strong leadership skills. Delvin is 17 years

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

old, stands 6’2”, weighs 190 lbs. and has been playing football since he was 9. Quarterback has been his position of choice since elementary school, but he is well versed on both sides of the ball. Last season, Delvin played on defense with a team leading 96 tackles at safety, 6 pass break ups, and 1 fumble recovery. He was selected to the All Region team for Region 5, 4A schools. Delvin says his move back to quarterback this season has been pretty easy because of his familiarity with the position and he has practiced in the past to be the backup quarterback should the starter get injured. Delvin’s strengths at quarterback include being a good leader and keeping the entire team on the

Real Women

right path. Delvin knows and understands the game and credits his Dad as being the biggest influence on him as an athlete. “My dad has always encouraged me to do my best no matter what position I play. He reminds me to this day that nothing comes easy in life and that hard work and perseverance will always pay off in the end.” Delvin feels that the Timberwolves will be competitive this season if they come out on Friday nights and play football like he knows they are capable of playing. Not one to pass the buck, Delvin is toughest on himself when a play does not produce yardage even though the team does all they can do. When asked what it is like to play cross town rival Lexington, Del-

vin says, “It’s like no other game. Being able to have the bragging rights feels great. It’s fun to be able to play against guys that you grew up playing with. It’s also a chance to get to see how much we have grown through the years. “Delvin loves the energy that comes from both teams and the stands on both sides being packed with fans. As for playing against friends, Delvin is quick to add, “Once we leave the playing field, our friendships still remain no matter what the outcome of the game may be.” For Delvin, the best thing about playing high school football is being prepared mentally and physically for the next level of life. He also loves seeing all of the support from family and friends in the stands. The worst part is not hav-

Delvin with his mother Sheila

William with his mother Lyn

Many residents of Lexington and the Midlands know their names and accomplishments throughout the years. ing a summer vacation to speak of because of waking up early for summer workouts. Delvin is currently going through the recruiting process to play college baseball and or football. He plans to major in Biomedical Engineering and is very grateful for this chapter of his life.

William Hunter William Hunter, 16, is a junior at Lexington High School and will start for the third consecutive year as quarterback for his team. William is 6’1”, weighs 175 lbs. and has been playing football since he was 11 years old. He brings lots of experience to his role as quarterback having started at this position since middle school. William has made quite a name for himself over the past two seasons as a young starting quarterback at Lexington. He led the 2011 Wildcats to an undefeated season and the Region 5, 4A Championship while amassing impressive stats. He threw for 3389 yards with 36 touchdowns and allowed 6 interceptions. He completed 208 passes out of 306 attempts. When asked what he enjoys most about playing quarterback, William said, “I love playing quarterback. I love the leadership role and all of the excitement.” William feels his strengths

are his ability to understand and run the offense and that his weakness is his foot speed.

William’s parents and grandparents have been a huge source of support to him over the years. He also gets lots of advice from older brothers Tradd and Coleman. His oldest brother, Tradd was the quarterback for 3 years at LHS and Coleman was the center his freshmen year. They are both always telling him what he needs to do to improve. William describes playing cross town rival White Knoll by saying, “It’s always fun to play against your friends. White Knoll is a great rival and I have a lot of friends that I grew up with who play there. I always want to win, but I pull for them when we are not playing each other.”

803.996.5100

www.whiteheadortho.com

William’s post high school plans include going to college and majoring in business. He would love the opportunity to play football, but realizes that a lot can happen in the next two years. A man of few words, William is tight lipped when it comes to making any predictions about this season. He feels like this year’s team is a strong family that will play some great competition and have lots of fun. His pre-game ritual includes praying, but the rest is private. To William, the best thing about playing football on Friday nights is the atmosphere. “Running out onto the field with everyone cheering and seeing all of my team mates and coaches so ready and excited is a good feeling. There is no bad part about it. I love it all.”

Dr. James D. Whitehead III

203 Mallard Lakes Drive • Lexington, SC 29072 www.lexingtonwomanonline.com 11

Let’s Talk

GOOD Dads are Awesome by Shirley Keels

e read and hear about the many good things “super moms” do everyday. However; there are plenty of “Awesome Dads “too. Yes, Dads do things differently. As an example, watch the way Moms and Dads hold babies. Moms cradle their little ones facing themselves under their chins. Dads on the other hand, tend to pick up their babies in playful, unpredictable ways and face them out toward the world – meaning – This is the world you’re entering. Lunchboxes and outfits and hair … don’t have to be perfect. Sorry, but a left over hot dog bun and beef jerky are not a real lunch but Dads say it’s ok. Also Dads say it’s more important to feed the kids on time, maybe give them a little junk food, than to feed them perfectly. It’s ok for the kids to sleep in their clothes if they fall asleep that way. Lots of things in life matter, but in your children’s eyes, what really matters is that they are valuable to you and that they measure up to your standards. And that they are important enough to you that you would want to spend time with them. They need to be affirmed and loved; right here and right now. A father’s love for a child is a precious gift. You know a man is an established father when you see him carrying a potty through a parking lot.

“I cannot think of any need in childhood as strong as the need for a father’s protection” — Sigmund Freud One in 25 men worldwide is not the biological father of a child they believe is theirs, that’s approximately 4%! Every child needs a Dad they can count on. The research is clear: children thrive when they have an involved father – someone who loves them, knows them, guides them, and helps them achieve their destiny. There is a great social change in our country. A modern dad sees the changing roles of men in family life as an opportunity – not a burden – to be a better dad. These are the Dads we salute today! Hopefully, the days are gone when Society expected men to bring down the hammer.

I give you a toast – To all the dads who’ve had their lives turned upside down by The State of the Economy. Who in one swoop have lost prestige, routine, income and mates. And yet survive – and make a brand new life. Who discover new abilities. Who use the extra time to build, from what would be ruin, a richer, happier life for their children…And for their wives, and for themselves.

This article was submitted by Shirley Keels, administrator of Columbia Women’s Healthcare and SC Clinical Research Center. Visit columbiawhc. com or call them at (803) 254-3230.

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Every child needs a Dad they can count on.

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Love for a Cure 2012

by Pam Criscione Ubl

(Tina Akers, Paulette Criscione, and Janice Sullins pictured)

he 3rd Annual Love for a Cure “One Day” Tennis Tournament was held May 5, 2012 at the Lexington County Tennis Complex. This unique one-day tournament and fund raiser continues to gain popularity, attracting more and more participants, volunteers and sponsors each year.

LFAC Tournament organizer, Paulette Criscione, can’t thank any of the participants enough. She’s fond of saying, “It takes a lot of twinkles to make a star; each and every one of these folks donates their time or services to help so many people in need.”

costs and budgets that our vendors grapple with, and the time that our volunteers take from their families and busy lives. Like many endeavors, the overall success of Love for a Cure is only possible because of all their efforts at so many different levels,” she says.

The Love for the Cure Tournament was established in 2010 in memory of Paulette’s brother, Jay Criscione. Jay was a long time Executive Director of the Lexington County Recreation & Aging Commission (LCRAC), and left a legacy of innovation. He lost his own battle with bile duct cancer in 2009.

Delicious food for this year’s hungry Tournament participants and guests was generously supplied by a variety of local restaurants and caterers including Cotton Grill, Kovachis, Lizard’s Thicket, Travinia Italian Kitchen and Yummie Creations, Gourmet to Go.

These are tough economic times for many people. Worthy charities and causes are competing for fewer dollars. Paulette Criscione is enormously grateful for every vendor donation, and hour of volunteer time. “I’m truly aware of the

Many, many volunteers helped get the food to the hungry crowd: picking it up; serving, helping with prep, and ultimately cleaning up. Some volunteers even brought their own grills and cooked hot dogs, so the Tournament players could enjoy lunch.

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Linda Welton, owner of The Eclectic House, added her expertise and design savvy to make everything look particularly special. Of course, there would be no tournament without the hosting of Lexington County Tennis Complex, and the dedicated staff of LCRAC, who are crucial to organizing, determining and implementing logistics. Jorge Andrew, Lee Ward and Joel Corley generously donate their time to the everessential oversight of tournament rules. And the volunteer Court Monitors are critical to ensuring that play runs smoothly throughout the event. This year’s champions were presented with a hand painted wine glass by Kay-Kay’s Kreations, a wine charm, and a bottle of wine from Cotton Grill. The finalists received a glass of wine from Cot-

‘It’s my passion to continue to see this fund grow...’ ton Grill, and all the players went home with a tennis towel. Not to be forgotten, are the many guests of the players who support the effort through their ticket purchase. All the LFAC Tournament’s proceeds go to the Lexington Medical Center Foundation Cancer Fund to help patients with what can often be overwhelming costs. “It’s my passion to continue to see this fund grow, and to help the cancer patients in our communities in all areas of their courageous battles with cancer,” says Paulette Criscione.

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Let’s Talk photo by Clark Berry Photography

THE ASHBY CHRONICLE:

Girls’ Night Out I

Ashby Jones

How can we need this event so badly? It is not as if the air we breathe is dependent on it. But it sort of is. So we send the group email, then the reminders. Then the reminder text messages, then the Facebook reminders. And if one of us dares to attempt a back-out, we gang up on her. You just saw your inlaws last weekend! You need to postpone that seminar. I don’t care if you will lose your license. I will help find you a babysitter. My babysitter will do it. Ok, she can’t do it — my neighbor will do it. Ok, she can’t do it either. I will ask my husband if he will watch your kids — he and I will settle up later. So we get in our cars and we tear out of our driveways or employer parking lots. We leave those husbands/boyfriends/bosses/incessant (but lovely) children behind. We arrive at the agreed-upon location, usually a restaurant.

by Ashby Jones

t usually starts with an email or a group text. One of us implores the others to commit to a Girls Night Out. We usually say: I need a Girls Night Out!! It takes this kind of insistence to get it done at this age. We can’t just wander down the dorm hall anymore. We have accessories to contend with: babies and men and jobs. group email, and then we are going to follow up that email with follow up texts and emails . . . and if we are going to follow up those emails with nagging reminders and ultimately, MAMMOTH guilt trips for the holdouts . . . we better have something important, deep and profound to say when we get there. But we don’t. Lexington women, we all talk about the same things when we get together: eyebrow waxing, reality television, digestion, gel polish, Ebay addiction. That thing you did that time that was funny. That thing I did that time that was embarrassing. That thing we did when we were last together that has percolated over the years and is now funny and embarrassing. We don’t say much of anything to each other at all. But my goodness, we need the notalking.

My husband once asked me if all we do is sit around and bad mouth our husbands/boyfriends. This question honestly took me by surprise. As if we would bad mouth them! (As if we talk about them at all).

Something happens to us as we no-talk. First, the tension is lifted and we finally relax. Becky calls it the “shoulder drop.” We put down our cell phones (unless we have a funny video, and that is ok). We stop thinking about work/men/ kids/home/clothes/diet.

Because if we are going to go to the trouble of a group text or

While we talk about the unnatural Kardashian combination of bulk-

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We all talk about the same things when we get together...

Ashby and April but-lack-of cellulite, the unspoken words are said: I am here. I will be here again. Finally, we head home. And we are rejuvenated! And we are more patient with our husbands/boyfriends/bosses/spoiled (yet so precious) children! We might clean our house! We might exercise! We might get to work early! We may be homeroom Mom!! We may actually vote for someone else to be homeroom Mom instead of throwing out the ballot!! Our tank is full until next time. And we wait until next time, in a month or so. That group email will arrive, or the text, and the follow up emails and texts, and the excitement will build again in cyberspace. But sometimes (and it doesn’t happen that often) — sometimes the email is upsetting. The reference line just says: help. Details

are shared and we scan through the paragraphs. One of the things we all have feared most, it has happened to one of our OWN. She has said some bad words in her email. Words like cancer, divorce, death. Our hearts lurch and we want to sob. It cannot be. What can we do? We know what to do. We immediately get in our cars and we tear out of our driveways or employer parking lots. We arrive at the agreed-upon location, usually her home. We put down our cell phones. We stop thinking about our men/homes/kids/stuff. We hope that we will have something important, deep and profound to say to her when we get there. But we don’t. In fact, we don’t say much of anything to her at all. But my goodness, she needs the no-talking.

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Fax (803) 359-1378 www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

TEAM SCHMITZ…

Inspiring Others Daily by Beth McCrary

photography by Robert Patrick Image Design

ust moments after crossing the finish line in the Little River Bridge Run in my hometown of Laurens in February of 2010, a very attractive couple approached me. Kristin Schmitz recognized me from the previous fall when I shared about my daughter’s diagnosis with Type 1 Diabetes at the BlueCross BlueShield Team Captain Kick-off for the Annual JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes. I was quite impressed that Kristin, a case manager for BCBS, recognized me with my hair pulled back in a ponytail, a red face, and in running attire. I remember that it was her and her husband William’s second race of the day. The running community refers to it as “double dipping”. That encounter in 2010 kicked off a friendship with Kristin and her husband William that continues to inspire me today. We discovered that not only did we share a passion for raising awareness of Type 1 Diabetes and a love of running, but that we both lived in the town of Lexington in neighborhoods a little more than a mile apart. Now that I know Kristin, I’m not surprised that she recognized me and remembered my story. Kristin has a heart for others. She is a natural encourager because she takes a genuine interest in helping others achieve their fitness goals no matter their age, size, shape, or fitness level. And she believes in giving back to her community.

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Let’s Talk Kristin has set goals and worked extremely hard along with her husband William to accomplish many milestones in running, biking, and triathlons. In just four years, she has competed in 207 events including running races, bike races, and triathlons. For the events she has data on, she has placed in her age group 41 times, won her age group 61 times, and been the overall female winner 11 times. Together, she and William comprise Team Schmitz. Team Schmitz was born in February of 2008 after Kristin and William completed their first race together. It was the Lexington Race Against Hunger and that race remains their favorite local race to compete in because they can ride their bikes to the starting line at Saxe Gotha Presbyterian Church and it’s for a great cause. They finished their first race hand in hand and couldn’t wait to compete in their next race. Kristin did not grow up running or participating in any sports until 7th grade. She was on the swim team from 7th grade through her senior year in high school in Newark, New York. Doing dry land weights and running for conditioning was the part of practice she enjoyed the least back then. That has changed dramatically since her move to South Carolina in May of 2003. After graduating from Buffalo State College with a Bachelor of Science in Social Work, Kristin knew she was heading south for graduate school to escape the brutal winters in upstate New York. Kristin applied at 3 universities and fell in love with the University of South Carolina and the Midlands while visiting with her mom. She graduated from Buffalo State in mid-May of 2003 and moved in to an apartment and ready to start graduate school at USC by Memorial Day weekend of that same year. Kristin credits her move to South Carolina as being instrumental to her health and where she is now in life.

She also gives great credit to friends along the way after her move to Columbia that encouraged her to become proactive about her health and fitness goals. Four years of undergrad had added unwanted pounds to Kristin’s tall frame. A friend in graduate school invited Kristin to attend Weight Watchers where she learned about calorie intake and became more cognitive of the food she was eating. While Kristin’s height allows her to pull off a higher weight, she knew she was not as healthy as she could be and not fit by a long shot. That was all about to change because of friendships, accountability, and encouragement from others. The following year in 2004, Kristin began working out at Strom Thurmond Wellness Center with another friend who is a triathlete and marathoner. This is when Kristin found what she really enjoyed doing in the gym and the added weight from college began to fall off. After trying group exercise classes as well, Kristin became certified to teach and did so at Health Directions from 2006-2011. She enjoyed the energy and commitment from group participation and realized teaching would be a great way to give back and influence others as instructors had done for her. Kristin and William’s love affair with running began after Kristin received an email from BlueCross BlueShield about their employee running club. She had started working for BCBS in December of 2007 and received the email in January of 2008. The Lexington Race Against Hunger followed in February and Team Schmitz has not slowed down since. That first race together and the decision to join the BCBS Running Club has completely changed their lives. When their wedding day came along on July 17, 2008, Kristin included in her own written vows to William…“couples who run together, have fun together!”

Kristin’s relationship with running was not love at first sight. She well remembers the first time she ran 2.5 miles without stopping at Riverfront Park to get ready for her first 5K. She kept telling her friend

Having participated in a handful of the same races with Team Schmitz, I can attest to the fact that they inspire daily. They are always at the finish line cheering everyone on. While they are accomplished runners, they remain extremely humble and willing to help others. They are always available to chat and answer training questions and an added bonus is that William is a meteorologist with the South East Regional Climate Center at UNCChapel Hill. He always has the scoop on the weather for local events.

They are always at the finish line cheering everyone on. that she could not do it. She quickly learned that to run further she had to slow her pace. Once she learned how to run correctly and pace herself to run further distances, she fell in love with running and the benefits that come with it. One of the benefits of running is the sense of empowerment Kristin feels when she puts her shoes on to run. She says it is the best part of running and she prays to never lose the desire and ability to run. “I love the energy I feel from running. I love seeing parts of new cities and our hometown that I get to see by running. It is a different perspective seeing sights from a run and I also see things differently in my life while thinking about them while I run. I often remind myself that there is no problem I cannot solve while running, however, sometimes I might have to run longer to solve it.” In 2011 and in 2012, Kristin and William applied for and were accepted into the Brooks ID program. This program stands for Inspire Daily through running. It is made up of a group of runners all over the country who love to inspire and help people in the community. The group is made up of all different ages, speeds and experiences, but all have the same passion to inspire people daily through running to accomplish the goals they have set.

Both Kristin and William volunteer for local organizations because it is important to them to give back to their community. In addition to the annual JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes, they volunteer for Girls on the Run, the Body Shop of Lexington Kid’s Triathlon, the Columbia Marathon, and the Harbison 50K Trail Run. They feel that all of these events are great ways to expose others to walking, running, biking, and swimming in the Midlands. They want to encourage others of all ages to set obtainable goals and experience the empowerment that comes with reaching the goals. Kristin wants others to know that it is possible to qualify and compete in the Boston Marathon and to mentally prepare for events like Escape from Alcatraz . She considers herself blessed to have been able to complete both in 2012. Both are events she will never forget and she is quick to acknowledge the support and influence of mentor Jeff Brandenburg, the Strictly Running training groups she has been a part of and her buddies in the BCBS Running Club. To read more about Team Schmitz and to be inspired by their dedication to setting yearly goals for themselves, subscribe to their blog – http://teamschmitz.blogspot.com. www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Pets

Obesity: Why are we feeding our pets to death? by Tim Loonam, DVM

besity is the single most common disease I see in companion animals and is clearly on the rise across the nation. In a recent study of over 2 million dogs and 400,000 cats, the nationwide chain of Banfield Pet Hospitals reported a 37% increase in obese dogs and a 90% increase in obese cats. This closely mimics the obesity epidemic among humans in our country. So what’s the big deal? ‘Pudgy pooches’ and ‘fat cats’ are cute, right? Just last week I saw a nearly 30 pound cat highlighted on The Today Show while the show’s hosts were having fun making jokes about the cat. Sadly, obesity shortens the lives of our dogs and cats and often makes the time they have with us more painful than it need be, particularly from arthritis. In the same nationwide study, Banfield Pet Hospitals reported a concurrent 38% increase in arthritis in dogs and 80% in cats. Several years ago Purina published a comprehensive study on obesity. Purina followed multiple litters of dogs from birth to death and in summary, proved if you keep your dog at a lean body condition, they will live 3 years longer and have a dramatic decrease in diseases compared to obese pets, particularly orthopedic disease. Yes, some pets are genetically predisposed to certain diseases such as hip dysplasia but we can prevent these problems and in many cases reverse problems such as pain from arthritis with weight control. Clearly, the

evidence speaks for itself. Why are we feeding our pets to death…? When I discuss obesity with my clients they always ask, “What should my pet weigh…?” All scoring methods veterinarians use to evaluate obesity involve assessing body condition and not weight. I always put my hands on the pet during an exam as thick and long hair coats can make a pet look bigger than they are. What I want to find are ribs, hips and spine that are easy to feel but not sharp or pointy. I want to feel and see an obvious waist when viewed from the top and side of the pet. Then I use the actual weight along with this information to determine an ideal body weight. At Grace Animal Hospital, every pet receives a Body Condition Score from 1 to 10; 1 being a ‘skeleton’ and 10 being a ‘bowling ball’. We want all our pets to score in the 4-6 range as their ideal body weight. My clients then ask, “How much and what should I feed my pet…?” Today’s pet foods, especially the premium brands from manufacturers such as Purina, Royal Canin, Iams, and Hills are excellent and filled with calories and balanced nutrition. These diets are almost too

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good and I find many of my clients over feed their pets. Since each diet is different in the amount of calories it’s difficult to answer the question, “How much should I feed?” There are formulas for calculating the energy requirements in dogs and cats based on age, but the individual energy needs for your pet can vary as much as 50% from the calculated value. Also since treats can significantly contribute to a pet’s daily intake, it’s important to include them in the diet plan. I recommend two things: stop ‘free choice’ feeding: this is where food is left out in the bowl for the pet to ‘graze’ on and is topped off as needed. And, use the recommended amounts on the pet food bag as a starting point only and feed to achieve the desired Body Condition Score. So what do you do if your pet is already obese? Before starting a weight-loss plan, begin with a comprehensive physical examination of your pet from one of Lexington’s established veterinarians to ruleout underlying medical conditions such as hypothyroidism. Prescription veterinary weight loss diets, increasing exercise, and frequent weighing and adjustment of the diet plan are essential to weight loss success. Regular leash walks and swimming are the best exercise for dogs. Cats are a different story: We recommend cat toys on a stick

We recommend cat toys on a stick and string for them to chase and play sessions with a laser pointer to get your cat moving. and string for them to chase and play sessions with a laser pointer to get your cat moving. I have one client who brilliantly hides her cat’s daily ration throughout the house to make the cat ‘hunt’ for its meals. Weight loss treats are available and veggies (baby carrots, chunks of apple, green beans) as well as rice cakes are great snacks for your pet’s cravings and to help you resist those big brown begging eyes. In summary, obesity is a disease that can be prevented and treated. By doing so, you’ll minimize other diseases, particularly arthritis, and maximize the time you and your pet can have together. Have your veterinarian help you with the appropriate diet and plan. And finally, like one vet friend of mine is fond of saying, “If your pet is fat, you’re not getting enough exercise…!”

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Subscribe online and see all of our past issues at www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Patricia Moore-Pastides

THE FIRST LADY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA photo by Robert Patrick Image Design

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The First Lady of USC Lexington Woman: Tell us about when you met your husband. Patricia Moore-Pastides: I met Harris on my first day of graduate school at Yale University. We were both students in the School of Public Health. LWM: How long did you date? PMP: We met in the fall of 1977 and married in the spring of 1980 when he was finishing up his PhD. LWM: What is a fun story about you and your husband that you can share with our readers about the time you dated? PMP: Well I have three brothers and we spent a lot of recreational time dancing (after all it was the disco era). Harris would tell you that he was a little intimidated about going dancing with me after seeing me dance with my brothers. But he was a great dancer and still is today! My favorite dates always include dancing. LWM: How did he ask you to marry him? PMP: We saw ourselves together from pretty early on in our relationship. We had discussed childrens’ names and we’d shopped for rings so he could get an idea of what I liked, but Harris has a hard time keeping a secret. On the morning of the day he decided to propose he said, “Don’t be late coming from work tonight because I have a special dinner planned” I knew immediately what he was up to!! It was the first day of spring, which I’ve always thought was simply perfect. LWM: Tell us about your children. PMP: Our daughter, Katharine is a museum educator married to Forest Erickson a filmmaker and they have a beautiful four-month-old daughter, Penelope Jean. She is our first grandchild and we are besotted! Our son Andrew is an actor and his wife Celia Rowlson-Hall is a choreographer and filmmaker. We are a very well entertained family! Seriously, there is nothing that Harris and I enjoy more that hearing about our children’s projects and seeing their work. They are all creative, tenacious, passionate people. LWM: Your website says your career has been in public health. Please give us a little background and expand on that some. PMP: I have an MPH in Health Administration

and I’ve enjoyed interesting and fulfilling jobs in various health venues. I’ve worked in neighborhood health centers, city and county health departments, hospitals, home health agencies and in teen age pregnancy prevention. My passion lies in health promotion. I lecture on the health benefits of the traditional Mediterranean diet LWM: If you could only give three tips that you think are MOST IMPORTANT for maintaining healthy lifestyle, what would they be? PMP: Don’t smoke. Exercise everyday. Eat a healthy diet. I promote the traditional Mediterranean diet because it’s been so widely studied and the simple preparation of whole unprocessed foods is easy and delicious! LWM: Tell us about your book Greek Revival: Cooking for Life. PMP: Greek Revival: Cooking for Life promotes the health benefits of the traditional Mediterranean diet. It has 87 delicious recipes, each with a full color picture and includes stories from our sabbaticals in Greece and Cyprus. It’s more than a cookbook, in that it provides summaries of the research that supports why the traditional Mediterranean diet is a good choice for Americans. And the stories add a little levity while also addressing the positive relationship that Greeks have traditionally had with food.

always make a curried butternut squash soup, which to me is the perfect Thanksgiving soup. On Greek Orthodox Easter I make all the traditional Greek comfort foods –roast lamb, roast potatoes, pastichio…we eat small servings of many dishes and of course end with baklava. LWM: What is your husband’s favorite dish that you cook? PMP: Probably tavas, which is a lamb, potato, tomato and onion, stew. It’s reminiscent of Harris’ mother’s cooking. LWM: What do you think makes the University of South Carolina so special? PMP: We have a wonderful culture at USC. We are a large research university, but at the same time we enjoy the culture of a small college. There is something for everyone here. We have great humanities and arts programs, an internationally known business school, top engineering programs, and best of all, we are a family.

My passion lies in health promotion.

LWM: What inspired you to write a cookbook? PMP: After working in the field of public health for so many years, I believe the solution to all that ails us—obesity, diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, cancers, inflammation—lies in a healthful lifestyle. While avoiding smoking and exercising daily are critical, I think as a nation we eat far too many fatty, salty and highly processed foods. I wanted to offer the reader a path to healthful eating that is accessible. The ingredients are fresh, the recipes are quite simple, and best of all the flavors are delectable! LWM: What is your favorite dish to cook for your family? PMP: I love the holidays because that is when the entire family comes together and we have lots of traditional dishes. For Thanksgiving I

LWM: What role do you think higher education plays in the quality of life of an individual? PMP: USC’s motto says ‘Education humanizes character and doesn’t allow it to be cruel.”

Higher education allows the individual to explore him or herself and others, to better understand the world through study. As we delve, search, and consider, we explore new paths and interests. If an individual invests him or herself in all USC has to offer they can’t help but discover their passion. Our goal is to graduate good citizens, leaders, thinkers and doers who have a solid center of core values from which to affect our world positively. Be sure to pick up a copy of Mrs. Pastides second book coming out next May called Greek Revival from the Garden: Growing and Cooking for Life. She says this book is “about growing your own organic vegetable garden and cooking the vegetables in the Mediterranean way. It will be targeted to a young adult audience with the hope of instilling sustainable growing practices, and good health habits at an early age.”

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Devon Wise

Abby Stiver

Hometown: Clover, SC Years living with it:

Hometown: Pomaria, SC Years living with it: 4.5 years What would you like to share with others?

16.5 years

What would you like to share with others?

Diabetes doesn’t control your life, you control what diabetes is in your life.

It doesn’t make me any different from anyone else. I just have to be more aware of what I feel and eat.

Priscilla Anne Lovell

Lydia Nicole Lovell

Hometown: Lexington, SC Years living with it: 5 years What would you like to share with others?

Hometown: Lexington, SC Years living with it: 7 years What would you like to share with others?

Caroline Barnes

Jenny Brown

Hometown: Columbia, SC Years living with it: 25 years What would you like to share with others?

Hometown: Greenville, SC Years living with it: 52 years What would you like to share with others?

James Dornburg

David Quiat

Hometown: Irmo, SC Years living with it:

Hometown: Charleston, SC Years living with it: 16.5 years What would you like to share with others?

It helps to keep a good sense of humor. For now, it is a permanent part of my life so it is best to accept it and move on.

Diabetes is a lifestyle. If you manage it rather than letting it manage you, you can feel good and lead a pretty normal life.

18 years and 9 months

What would you like to share with others?

Diabetes is time consuming and never leaves my mind.

Emma Webb

“Miss Palmetto Teen USA 2013”

Hometown: Greenville, SC Years living with it: 10 years What would you like to share with others? I control my diabetes, I don’t let it stop me from doing what I want.

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You may not be able to see that I have type 1 diabetes but it affects every part of my life. Just because I don’t look sick doesn’t mean I am not suffering.

Go through “Diabetes College” and check to see how food, insulin exercise, stress and hormonal changes affect your glucose levels. Maintain a positive attitude.

Living with Type 1 Diabetes is a 24/7 challenge that if left unattended can lead to life-threatening complications or death. Keeping levels normal can get frustrating.

Catherine Ashbridge Hometown: Columbia, SC Years living with it: 5 years What would you like to share with others?

Don’t be afraid to live your life. Everyone has a cross to bear. Although diabetes certainly has its moments, it’s a manageable disease.

photos by Clark Berry Photography

Craig Leaphart

Elizabeth Todd Heckel

Hometown: Lexington, SC Years living with it: ½ year What would you like to share with others?

Hometown: Columbia, SC Years living with it: 45 years What would you like to share with others?

Kaitlin Marie Leva

Megan Kelly Quattlebaum

It is just something else to deal with. We’re no different than anyone else.

Hometown: Quantico, VA Years living with it: 5 years What would you like to share with others?

It’s hard, but I if you stay strong and take care of yourself, you can live with it. Diabetes doesn’t define who I am.

It can be a positive or negative, up to individual.

Hometown: Lexington, SC Years living with it: 20.5 years What would you like to share with others? To master it and don’t let it master you!

Matt Campbell

Alexys Cobb

Hometown: Simpsonville, SC Years living with it: 1 year What would you like to share with others?

Hometown: Lexington, SC Years living with it: 12 years What would you like to share with others?

I’m just like anyone living without diabetes, but I just have to be more conscious about what I eat and drink.

Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune disease. I didn’t get it from poor diet or lack of exercise.

Amy Stockwell Mercer

Jamie McCarty

Sheila Scanlon Holdford

Hometown: Louisville, KY Years living with it:

Hometown: Washington, DC Years living with it: 40 years What would you like to share with others?

18 years

What would you like to share with others?

It has definitely not held me back; in fact it has given me the opportunity to do so much more!

The best way to live successfully with a chronic illness, including type 1 is to take care of it.

Charlotte Flint Hometown: Mt. Pleasant, SC Years living with it: 3 years What would you like to share with others? I am essentially no different than anyone else. I can do everything they do; I just have to be more patient.

Thank you to all of our models!

is a freelance writer in Charleston, SC. She graduated with her MFA in creative writing from Queens University in Charlotte, NC. Her writing has appeared in Charleston Magazine, the City Paper, Art Papers, skirt! Magazine, Literary Mama, A Cup of Comfort For Writers, and several others. Amy has lived with type 1 diabetes for 25 years and is the proud mother to three young boys. Visit Amy’s site to learn more and see her works of writing!

www.amystockwellmercer.com

Presented by Lexington Woman Magazine and The Palmetto Chapter of JDRF, the first Naturally Sweeter Fashion Show, featuring models with Type 1 Diabetes, was held at Holiday Inn & Suites in West Columbia this past Spring. Our models featured fashion by Craig Reagin Clothiers, Envii of Lexington, and Mae’s on Main. Amy Stockwell Mercer, author of The Smart Woman’s Guide to Diabetes, was our special guest. A great time was had by all who attended, and all proceeds raised went to The Palmetto Chapter of JDRF to help find a cure for diabetes.

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

A TRIBUTE TO SURVIVOR

Cynthia Weaver L e x i n g t o n Wo m an c e l e b r a t e s t h e s u r v i vo r i n yo u

n each issue, we want to inspire women with a survivor story. These stories are not always easy to tell, because they sometimes don’t have the hoped for outcome. In our holiday issue of 2010, we told you the survival story of Cynthia Weaver. At that time, Cynthia’s only hope was to live long enough to hold her granddaughter. She did. Not only did she survive her birth, but she lived over a year after her granddaughter, Charlotte Darby, was born. She held her, played with her, celebrated her first Christmas, her first birthday and many other firsts. On May 18, 2012 in the morning, surrounded by her loving family, Cynthia received her complete healing when she went to be with our heavenly father. This survivor section is dedicated to Cynthia and the many others like her who keep on keeping on. She is an inspiration to us, a loved mother, a grandmother, and a friend to many. “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. (Philippians 1:21) After having her yearly mammogram just eight weeks earlier, Cynthia rolled over in bed to turn out the light on April 1, 2009 and felt a huge mass. The cancer was in her left breast and had spread to the lymph nodes. After being diagnosed with Stage III invasive ductal carcinoma (the tumor being the size of a lemon) she was stunned and faced immediate surgery in the following days.

Appointments were made immediately with the surgeon and oncologist to discuss treatment options. After having a mastectomy, another surgery to have a port in-

serted for chemo, four and a half months of life-altering chemo and six weeks of radiation, Cynthia thought she had fought the hardest battles and would soon hear the words, “cancer-free”. Unfortunately, that was not to be. Thirty days after treatment, on New Year’s Eve 2009 she was told that she had a reoccurrence and the breast cancer had spread to a vertebrate in her back. “I was in shock from this news and thought ‘this cannot be’,” says Cynthia. To

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make sure that the cancer in the vertebrae was from the breast cancer and not a new occurrence, the doctors performed a very painful

Cynthia and her daughter decided to go to Duke for a second opinion. Cynthia tells us that she and her daughter never wanted to look back and feel they had not checked out all the resources and options available. Lying in the back seat recuperating from the back biopsy, her daughter and sonin-law took Cynthia to Duke to meet with a breast cancer specialist. Duke confirmed with the oncologist in Columbia that additional chemo would not be helpful at that point.

I have found courage that I never knew existed and endurance for the unknown. procedure to biopsy the inside of the vertebrate and it did come back positive for breast cancer.

Cynthia tells us what life has been like since that day: I decided early on that I would walk this cancer journey with courage and dignity and have tried every day to do so through all the treatments, surgeries, biopsies, scans and doctor appointments. I know that God is walking with me and carrying me when I stumble, and that many prayers that have been prayed for me and my faith has gotten me through many dark hours and days. I have learned how much I am loved by my daughter, mom, dad, brother and all my friends. The outpouring of love and support has been overwhelming. I cannot express how my daughter (who I called my angel through all this) has helped me walk through this journey. Without her care, encouragement and support I know that I would not be here today. She even took me home after my mastectomy surgery and convinced the surgeon that she would care for me at home without me even spending a night at the hospital. She was so loving and cared for me and watched over me for the next few days after surgery. She was the one who forced me to take the bandages off and we cried together to see how I was forever changed physically. She is very protective of me, especially when we are in dressing rooms and trying on clothes so that others will not look at me. She made sure that she went to all my chemo treatments and sat with me for each four and a half hour treatment; reading, playing games, or anything we could do to pass the time. She then took care of me for

the next few days cooking, making sure groceries were in the house, running errands until I was back on my feet and they she returned to her home in Greenville, SC and back to her practice as a Vascular Internist. Then the process would begin again for a total of 6 rounds of chemo. My daughter has provided constant love and encouragement; even convincing me I had hair when I was bald to force me out of the house without my wig. I have found courage that I never knew existed and endurance for the unknown. I have learned that none of us are guaranteed a tomorrow, and that you have to live each day fully and with hope. I am thankful and blessed for every single day that God gives me and appreciate every moment and never taking things for granted. I have been blessed and given many friends that I would not have if not for breast cancer. I feel that I can say I am surviving breast cancer and will continue to fight this dreadful disease. Cynthia’s prayers in the beginning were for survival. Through her journey, the prayer was no longer about her breasts cancer but instead Cynthia tells us, “My prayer to God since is ‘Please God, let me live long enough to rock a grandchild.’” Cynthia’s prayer was answered. She spent the first year of her granddaughter’s life celebrating her birth. This article is brought to you by Dems Fine Jewelers. Visit www.demsjewelers. com or call (803) 407-5290. See their ad on page 28.

The “Cynthia” Bead RAIN DANCE: With splashes of joy and swirls of happiness, this bead is all about dancing in the rain with family and friends. “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about dancing in the rain.”

Don’t Miss the State House BUTTERFLY RELEASE

undreds of colorful butterflies will fill the air at the SC State House September 25, 2012 at 5:30 p.m. as the SC Ovarian Cancer Foundation Riverbanks Region Chapter holds its annual “Whispers” event to promote awareness of the whispering symptoms of ovarian cancer. September is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Participants will release butterflies in memory or honor of a relative or friend who has been affected by ovarian cancer and other female-related cancers. Each year more than 20,000 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer, and of those more than 15,000 will lose their lives. One in 72 women will develop some form of ovarian cancer in their lifetime. Ovarian cancer is called “the disease that whispers”, because women may not recognize the symptoms that signal the onset. It is one of the deadliest cancers among women, often detected too late to be cured. If detected early, ovarian cancer has a 95% five-year survival rate. The survival rate drops below 25% for five-year survival for those who are in stage 3 and 5% for those diagnosed in stage 4. Ovarian cancer is never detected through pap smear examinations. Proceeds from the event help further the Chapter’s mission of educating women in the Midlands about ovarian cancer. For more information on how to participate in the butterfly release, please contact Sandy Boozer or Cathy Novinger at 803-926-3462.

To purchase, visit www.demsjewelers.com or call (803) 407-5290.

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Back to School

BACK TO SCHOOL:

DON’T LEAVE OUT YOUR TECHNOLOGY!

by Matthew B. Spain

ell, it is almost that time again! Back to school time! All ages are going to be going back to school in about a month or so. As your kids are getting ready for that time, or better yet, you are getting ready for that time, I wanted to remind you of a few things about your technology. For the family computer that your kids may use to do their school work or the laptop your highschooler or college kid uses, you need to be sure you have adequate security software on it to protect it from infections. Pop-ups are one of the signs that you may be infected, as well as if you are on the internet, and the page you thought you were going to, ended up being something completely different than what you expected. We recommend Norton Internet Security 2012 for your home computer. Some people may cringe at the thought of Norton, because of the past issues with it slowing down your computer. The current versions are really good about being lightweight on your system and not bogging you down.

Another bit of information that you may want to consider is a filtering software or internet accountability software. This will keep undesirable content from coming across your computer as well as produce logs so that you can see what all is being viewed on the computer regardless of someone deleting the history. It is crucial to protect the minds of everyone, but especially your kids. Evil is lurking around every corner and crevice.

If you have a kid in college or one who is going off to college, they will more than likely need a computer of their own. Most people in that age bracket get the most use out of a laptop. One thing to remember before you purchase that computer is to look at the technology requirements of your school. All laptops are NOT created equally.

If you would like help selecting a computer for your college kid, please let us know. We are also offering a 10% discount on your first computer purchased with installation and setup, from Computer Paramedics!

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HOMESCHOOLING

with the Lewis Family H

by Ruth Chapman

omeschooling has not always been an option accepted by mainstream America. But, it got me thinking and I decided to ask some in depth questions of church friends of mine who homeschool all 6 of their children.

The choice to homeschool came naturally for Corbett and AnnMarie Lewis of Lexington, SC. Back in 1990 when their oldest child, Austin was born prematurely both parents worked fulltime jobs. When Austin arrived at 31.5 weeks and was sickly, having contracted RSV twice, Ann-Marie started thinking about the future. She decided after a disastrous run with daycare that the ‘Lord was calling me to quit my job and stay home.’ She knew that she wanted to have her children reared in the Catholic faith. But Catholic school can be expensive, especially when there is only one income. She also decided that because Austin was not well enough to attend public kindergarten, she would look into homeschooling him, through a Catholic homeschooling option. When he was 3½ years old baby number 2, Christopher came along. By the time Christopher was ready to start learning she had heard so many negatives about public school, she decided to teach him at home, too.

Daily Routine

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Their daily routine consists of school beginning between 89:00ish, then noon break for lunch. Restart school from 1-4:00, then chores begin. Chores are completed from 4-5:00 with supper and clean up until around 7:00. She generally tries to teach the younger children in the morning, especially since some of the older ones attend the resource center two mornings a week. The students receive at least one hour of instruction in a single subject, one on one with Mom, and then they have work to complete. When the work is done, they can play with siblings; this encourages them to get the work done in a timely fashion. They work this schedule Monday through Thursday during the school year and Friday is Ann-Marie’s planning day (she plans lessons two months in advance for each child) and for errands and appointments. Twice a year they travel to native Florence so the whole crew, Mom, Dad and all 6 children can attend their favorite dentist. Then it’s off

to Corbett’s parents for a visit and meal. During the summer they continue attending an abbreviated school half days, Monday-Friday. She’s learned that her hardest subject to teach is foreign language and her least favorite is science, especially the labs. She decided when child number 4, Taylor came along that it was time for some help. So she began using a group called the Midlands Homeschool Resource Center (MHSRC) for foreign language and high school

science and math. Homeschoolers are still required to teach 51% of the curriculum in order to comply with regulations. The group rents a building from the Lexington Presbyterian Church on Barr Road two days/week for one hour and fifteen minute classes. The teachers at the center are paid directly by the parents and all hold college degrees. I asked Ann-Marie if the children have a choice in the foreign language that they take. Her response, “after they take Latin, they can take any other language they like.

been very comfortable using tools advanced for his age. Every trip they take is used as a teaching tool. But there is very little television allowed. They utilize “BOB” a device that is plugged into their television and is programmed to allow only a certain amount of earned T.V. time per child. The child has to key in their own code, and when the time is up, the T.V. shuts off. Imagine how much more time we would all have in a day if we turned off the television.

To say they are close-knit is a huge understatement, another benefit of homeschooling.

Latin is the basis of the Catholic faith and is the origin of most of the romantic languages so it helps them learn other languages such as French and Spanish.” She would love to find a teacher of Italian so her children can learn to communicate with their Italian grandmother. So far, homeschooling has been a big success. In fact, the older two have excelled in school so the system must be working. The oldest, Austin, now 22, graduated from the University of South Carolina this May with a 3.3 GPA. The second oldest, Christopher, age 18 just graduated through the SC Association of Independent Home Schools on Knox Abbott Dr. in West Columbia and has been accepted into the Honors College at Clemson University for the fall 2012 term.

Fun They go on field trips to the Lexington County Museum, the SC State Museum Relic Room and lots of other places. Last year they went on a business trip with Dad, Corbett to Baltimore and added an extra week using it as a great history lesson; they even visited Betsy Ross’ flags. They are currently in the midst of expanding their home by several rooms and doing all of the work themselves. All of the children are participating as part of their schooling. In fact, she says that her fifth child, Grayson who has been diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), has

I now know a lot more about homeschooling and am in awe of any parent who can tackle this chore. Ann-Marie says the secret is organization and starting young. None of the Lewis children attends a formal public or private school until the high school level, except for the resource center classes and Catechism classes at church. They are all active at Corpus Christi Catholic Church and the whole family takes up half the pew. Austin sings in the Youth Choir, Christopher is a Lector, Taylor and Matthew are altar servers and young Grayson and Mary- Catherine sit in the pew quietly with Mom and Dad every Sunday evening. In addition, Ann-Marie serves on Parish Advisory Council, an elected position within the church and is a Eucharistic Minister. There is rarely a church function in which this family does not attend. To say they are close-knit is a huge understatement, another benefit of homeschooling. Is homeschooling right for your children? Maybe or maybe not; but now that you have heard the Lewis’ story perhaps you have a little better insight into the homeschooling world.

Carolina Behavior & Beyond, LLC is a home-based early intervention provider serving children with special needs, ages birth-five in Calhoun, Lexington, Richland, and Saluda counties.

Your Journey Is Our Passion Adrianna Kleckley: (803)446-8113 Suzanne English: (803)447-8449 Office Fax: (803)808-7951 “Like” us on Facebook!

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Back to School

IS YOUR CHILD GETTING

ENOUGH Sleep?

by Ruth Chapman

ccording to the National Sleep Foundation, preschool aged children (ages 3-5) need 11-13 hours of sleep each night and school-aged children (5-12) need 10-11 hours of sleep each night. How many hours of sleep does your child receive? They suggest that TV, computers, media, Internet and caffeine products lead to difficulty falling asleep, nightmares and disruptions to the sleep. They offer the following sleep tips:

So let’s do the math.

• Teach children about healthy sleep habits • Continue to emphasize the need for regular and consistent sleep schedule and bedtime routine • Make your child’s bedroom conducive to sleep — dark, cool and quiet including a recommendation to keep television and computers out of the bedroom. • Avoid caffeine.

If your 5 year old child has to be up for school at 6:30 a.m., he should be in bed ideally, between 7:30 – 8:00 p.m. Your 10 year old child should be in bed between 8:30-9:00. Typically pre-school starts later in the morning, so if your 3 year old child has to be up by 8:00 a.m., then she should be in bed between 7:007:30 p.m.

Furthermore, there is research to suggest that there is a link between the #1 epidemic in America, childhood obesity and sleep, or the lack thereof. There is also research to suggest a link between common sleep disorders and ADHD.

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Getting them up that first week back to school, especially if their sleep schedule has been disrupted over the relaxed summer can be challenging. Perhaps going to bed a little earlier each night and awaking a little

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earlier each morning, beginning a few weeks before school will help get your child back on the right sleep track. It’s always easier to set a sleep schedule at the beginning of

the school year than to try to backtrack weeks later. Good luck!

Getting them up that first week back to school, especially if their sleep schedule has been disrupted over the relaxed summer can be challenging.

Back to School

South Carolina Future Scholar

SAVINGS PLAN We are committed to your success. We possess the knowledge, competence, and reliability that you should expect from your accountant. We want to help you become more profitable and secure in retirement, long term care, and make provisions for those who depend on you. Sleep easy!

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aving money…. The subject immediately strikes fear into the heart of readers. It is the reason I am an accountant and not a financial advisor. No two people agree on the methods. Even after you have picked the method, you have to worry about timing, hopping in and out of the market, exercising patience, yet “striking while the iron is hot.” I personally love it… except when I hate it… especially if I ate it. (I am going to send that last little bit to Al Sharpton). The majority of benefit plans give you five options. These include conservative, moderately conservative, balanced, moderately aggressive, and aggressive. Today, we are going to speak about an alternative. A low risk, high yield, albeit single year, financial and responsible investment… the SC Future Scholar Plan.

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The SC Future Scholar Plan is a qualified 529 college savings plan. It was designed to offset the rising prices of college. In South Carolina, it equates to a 6% guaranteed return every year money is invested. Call your financial advisor and ask he/she about an investment that guarantees 6%... see what they say. So how does it work? Each beneficiary is allowed up to $318,000 (per current regulations) of contributions. These contributions are post tax as it concerns the IRS, but pretax when you file your SC tax return. This is where your 6% immediate savings comes in, if you are incurring other state income taxes. The growth of the plan is completely tax free for both federal and state income taxes. With certain exclusions, the withdrawal of the fund is tax free, and you can contribute up to $65,000 ($130,000 for married couples) in a single five year period without incurring gift taxes. I love the Future Scholars Program. People

always ask me about “tax shelters” and I say they were torn down in the late eighties. However, this is as close as it comes. Savvy internet users can open and maintain their own accounts through www.futurescholar. com. This is also where you can obtain more information regarding the “what if ’s?” of starting one.

In South Carolina, it equates to a 6% guaranteed return every year money is invested. In closing, please contact our office if you have any other questions, and do not pay a financial advisor to set up your 529 plan. Your tax preparer should do this free of charge. Don’t diminish the tax benefits you receive with fees paid to an advisor, it is counterproductive. Wishing you wealth, happiness, and personal growth until we speak again. This article was written by Tripp Newsome, President of Newsome & Company, P.C., Certified Public Accountants. Visit www.NewsomeCPA.biz to learn more. www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Back to School

Going Back to School? OCCUPATIONAL/PHYSICAL THERAPY HELPS SCHOOL CHILDREN

ital Energy is an occupational, physical and aquatic therapy as well as an alternative therapy and wellness center whose goal is to promote and provide rehab, healing and wellness to all age groups. The center is an environmentally friendly, well-equipped, state-of-the-art facility located at 163 Charter Oak Road, Lexington, South Carolina 29072. “Vital Energy has the ability to help many different types of diagnoses and we treat newborn infants to 21 year old youngsters in our pediatric therapy area. “From the smallest to the most difficult diagnosis, our staff is up for the challenge,” says Hima Dalal. Hima and her team help a variety of patients suffering from scoliosis, pain, postural issues, trauma and other injuries to ADHD (where we use iLS – Integrated Listening System – a multisensory program for improving brain function) or learning disabilities, just to name a few.

According to Hima, one of the greatest challenges middle-schoolers are facing right now is the heavy backpacks they are required to lug around all day, which can often weigh up to 28 pounds. “If students are not aware of the proper way in which books should be placed in the backpack, the load will vary because of the leverage, and the mechanical advantages will not be in the right place, which can multiply in different parts of your body,” says Hima. For example, “The higher load should be centered at the mid-back. If the load is larger on top, gravity will pull you down, the backpack will pull you down, resulting in many changes to your spine. Not only are muscles at risk, but so is spine formation, joints and cartilage. These

factors can lead to stress on the knees because you cannot carry it on your back and pelvic floor, so now you are bending your knees forward, and putting unnecessary wear and tear on them.” According to Hima, the backpack problem can affect the body in a myriad of ways, causing multiple issues and a variety of joint problems. Who would have thought all these issues could potentially happen because of a “little” backpack?! Another area of concern is the neck. Not surprising, children are playing a lot of video games these days. “When they play video games, they are generally not displaying good posture,” warns Hima. “As new technology is integrated into our learning, such as

the iPad and laptop, posture is a concern in the use of these devices as well.” Something as seemingly simple as a child sitting in an adult sized chair can affect “everything from the neck all the way down to their ankles,” relays Hima. She offers a posture screening and evaluation, where clients are provided with tips for correcting posture and strength exercises that can be performed at home. “There are many problems that can be addressed in just one visit,” Hima notes. The team at Vital Energy treats sports-related injury clients as well; everything from cheerleaders to runners. In younger children, the “cartilage has not yet formed, so they are always at a very high risk of damaging something. It is

important to stretch, warm up and cool-down. Young athletes should have a strength evaluation for all the different muscles to see if they are equally strong. Some muscles have a lot more range than others. Once someone is injured, they are at risk of getting hurt again. This can be significantly reduced if a full body evaluation is performed.” Treating the patient as a whole and checking his or her entire body is the focal point of Vital Energy’s practice. “Whatever sports they are playing,” says Hima, “we will simulate and make sure they are working to their fullest potential.” We have a Hydroworx Pool with an underwater treadmill that can be utilized by young athletes to reach their rehabilitation goals

(left to right) Attention Deficit Coordination Exercise; Treatment for Muscle Tightness/IT Band; Hima treating Growing Pain (Chondromalacia Patella); Treatment for Migraine Headache/Post-Traumatic Brain Injury

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Back to School Backpack max weight = 20% of total body weight

Padded shoulder straps

Who would have thought all these issues could potentially happen because of a ‘little’ backpack?!

Wide shoulder straps

Chest of waist belt

Straps are adjustable

Backpack is not wider than child’s shoulders and not taller than child’s shoulders when sitting

Occupational Therapy

Physical Therapy

safely and quickly. Aquatic Therapy or Hydrotherapy utilizes the principle of buoyancy to support the weight of the patient and provides an easier means of performing their rehabilitation exercises. The warm water aids in the increase in range of motion and decrease in pain and swelling. Growing pains, ADHD, juvenile diabetes, migraine headaches, back/knee pain and inflammation are just a few of the issues treated by Vital Energy, and they have a trained team of occupational therapists on staff. The free-standing building is eas-

ily accessible, with lots of bright lights and colors, so it feels very inviting and welcoming. Vital Energy accepts most major insurance policies, including Medicaid. If you feel as though you could benefit from some of the services offered by Vital Energy, stop by and see Hima or one of her team members today. You can also call 803-59-1551 and speak with one of her friendly office staff, or visit their website at www. vitalenergytheapy.com for more information. Here’s to a healthier, happier South Carolina!

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

Hima N. Dalal

Reiki Treatment

Occupational Therapist Reiki and Myofascial Release Consultant Sports Personal Fitness Consultant

• 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 www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Childhood is full of bangs, bumps and bacteria. Parenthood may be fun, but it sure isn’t easy. That’s why the pediatric practices of Lexington Medical Center make children’s health care fast and easy. Get experienced, compassionate pediatric care with convenient hours and acute care. Protect your children with the strength of Lexington Medical Center and our extensive physician network of care.

GET HELP FROM A GREAT PEDIATRICIAN.

A Lexington Medical Center Physician Practice

811 West Main Street Suite 204, Lexington, SC 29072

109 Vista Oaks Drive, Suite C Lexington, SC 29072

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(803) 808-0523

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Monday - Thursday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday 9 a.m. to noon

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Kinder Kids Academy • Translation/Interpretat Early Intervention • Service Coordination

Physical Therapy • Occupation Therapy • Speech Therapy

AIKEN (803) 226-0525 P.O. Box 5158 Aiken, SC 29804

“Making the world a little bit KINDER one kid at a time” 36

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CHARLESTON (843) 452-5933

P.O. Box 736 Summerville, SC 29484

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Health & Wellness

THE DOCTOR IS IN

You Ask, Pediatricians Answer

exington Pediatric Practice, a Lexington Medical Center physician practice, is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Dr. Dwight Reynolds started Lexington Pediatric Practice in 1987. The original office was located on Old Chapin Road and Dr. Reynolds was the only pediatrician in Lexington at the time. Like its patients, Lexington Pediatric Practice grew up big. Today, it’s home to Dr. Reynolds, Dr. Lillie Bates, Dr. Caroline Webber and Dr. Caleb Wheeler, and is located inside a spacious, kid-friendly office at LMC-Lexington, located at 811 West Main Street, Suite 204. The practice joined the LMC Network of Care in 2009. Each physician is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. In honor of the silver anniversary milestone, its four physicians are sharing their answers for some of the most common questions they are asked at their practice.

Dr. Lillie Bates

How can we help to keep our children from becoming overweight?

We’ve seen more overweight children because we’re not moving enough. We’ve even seen high blood pressure and early onset diabetes in teenagers. The key is for the whole family to live a healthy lifestyle. Take a walk or jump rope together. Switch to skim milk. Remember that convenient foods are not always healthy foods. The Midlands is a great place to raise healthy kids - we have a lot of opportunity for activity. Also, breastfeed your babies: research shows that breast fed babies are less likely to become overweight than bottle fed babies.

ant bites. Mix some meat tenderizer with a few drops of water and rub it on the bite to help the area heal faster. Dr. Caroline Webber

How can I get my baby to sleep through the night?

Dr. Dwight Reynolds

Put your baby in his own room at night as soon as you are comfortable – definitely by 2 to 3 months old. If your baby cries when you put him to bed, give him 10 to 15 minutes to calm down on his own. If he’s still crying after that, go into his room, reassure him and give him a pacifier, if he uses one. Then, give him 15 to 20 minutes before going back. It’s important for a baby to learn how to fall asleep on his own without help from things like rocking in a rocking chair, drinking a bottle or nursing.

What are your best outdoor tips for parents?

Dr. Caleb Wheeler

Babies need sunscreen with a recommended SPF of 30. Don’t trust that it’s waterproof or sweatproof – reapply throughout the day. Also, roll-on deodorant can be great first aid for mosquito bites. A deodorant with aluminum salt, which most deodorants have, will keep a fresh bite from flaring up and becoming infected. And, meat tenderizer is a good remedy for fire

What milestones should a baby reach by the first birthday?

The first birthday is the biggest time of change in children’s lives. They start walking, talking and eating real food. Everything they know is changing and all kids handle that and develop differently. At age 1, a child should show an effort

(left to right) Dr. Dwight Reynolds, Dr. Caroline Webber, Dr. Caleb Wheeler, and Dr. Lillie Bates

There’s a great mix of experience and new training among the physicians. to talk, say a few words including “Mama” and “Dada,” show their personality, express some needs and demonstrate affection. Lexington Pediatric Practice has a family feel and physicians spend a lot of time with each patient, without making patients feel as if they’re lost in the shuffle of a large practice. There’s a great mix of experience and new training among the physicians. And they love taking care of children.

“The kids keep you young, are always interesting and say what’s on their mind,” Dr. Reynolds said. “Around age three, they become our best buddies – that’s a transition we enjoy.” They’re looking forward to taking care of the next generation. Lexington Pediatric Practice is accepting new patients. You can reach them at (803) 359-8855 or www. lexpediatricpractice.com

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Doctor Recommended Families and their referring physicians have trusted our fellowship p ears. trained specialists for comprehensive orthopaedic care for over 30 years. Robert M. Peele, Jr., M.D. Michael R. Ugino, M.D. Michael S. Green, M.D. M. David Redmond, M.D. Robert M. DaSilva, M.D. Frederick C. Piehl, M.D.

Thomas P. Gross, M.D. James A. O’Leary, M.D. Coleman D. Fowble, M.D. William C. James, III, M.D.

Ivan E. LaMotta, M.D. Bernard G. Kirol, M.D. Thomas D. Armsey, II, M.D. Ryan A. Wetzel, M.D.

Ortho PM & Saturday Hours* Monday – Friday, 5:00pm – 7:00pm Saturday, 8:30am–10:30am *Some insurance restrictions may apply.

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Health & Wellness

What is Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation?

by Ryan Wetzel, MD and AnnMargaret McCraw

ave you ever been referred to a Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R) physician and wondered what that really means? PM&R is a medical specialty first certified by the American Board of Medical Specialties in 1947 as the expertise of these physicians was in high demand to address the serious disabilities of veterans returning from World War II. A PM&R physician, also called a physiatrist, is a nerve, muscle and bone expert who treats injuries or illnesses that impede movement. Specializing in non-surgical treatments, a physiatrist focuses on the development of a comprehensive program to restore or improve quality of life for patients after injury or disease. Physiatrists design treatment plans and coordinate care among a team of medical specialists to include orthopaedic surgeons, neurologists, psychologists, physical therapists and occupational therapists. Often a surgeon will refer patients to a physiatrist after determining that pain will not be improved by surgery. Physiatrists treat a wide range of conditions including arthritis, back pain, carpal tunnel, geriatric rehabilitation, herniated disc, neck pain, neuropathy, sports related injuries and work related injuries.

paedic surgeons often recommend electrodiagnostic testing to determine if conditions are being caused by pressure on a nerve, frequently in the arm, elbow or wrist.

Like other physicians, physiatrists use medical histories, physical exams and imaging studies to aid in diagnosis. The rehabilitation physician also frequently utilizes electrodiagnostic techniques like EMG and nerve conduction studies to pin point conditions causing pain, weakness or numbness. These tests measure the speed and degree of electrical activity in your muscles and nerves to determine if injury or disease is impeding the movement of these signals. Ortho-

An EMG is often accompanied by Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) to determine if a nerve is functioning properly. Wires, or electrodes, will be taped to the skin in various places along the nerve pathway and then an electric current is applied to stimulate the nerve. The electrodes capture how quickly the signal is traveling. Electric signals can travel up to 120 miles per hour in healthy nerves, but the signal will be much slower and weaker in damaged nerves. Stimulating the

Electromyography, or EMG, evaluates the electrical activity in your muscles. It is commonly used to identify carpal tunnel, neuropathy, and pinched nerves in the neck or back. At rest, normal muscles are electrically neutral. Small, thin needles are placed in the muscle during an EMG to record the electrical activity. You will be asked to alternately relax and then tense the muscle while the physician watches the electrical signals broadcast on a monitor. Although you may feel some discomfort when the needles are inserted and experience some soreness or bruising when they are removed, EMGs have no longterm side effects.

Dr. Tom Armsey with a patient nerve at various places allows the physician to determine the injured site. While you may be startled by the nerve stimulation, it is not painful. Additionally, physiatrists frequently use injections to both diagnose and treat back and neck pain. Spinal injections utilize x-ray guidance to ensure that the medication is placed correctly. A dye is injected prior to the medication so the physician can determine exactly where the medication will flow. If the dye doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t flow to the correct location, the physician can reposition the needle before injecting the medicine. Midlands Orthopaedics is pleased to offer a variety of diagnostic

and treatment options in our new injection suite at our downtown location. Dr. Ryan Wetzel is the newest addition to the Physical Medicine team at Midlands Orthopaedics. Dr. Wetzel completed his Residency in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation at Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center in Richmond, VA followed by an additional year of Fellowship training in Pain Management, also at VCU. He is well-trained in interventional pain management techniques and is a nice complement to the wellestablished PM&R practice of Dr. Dave Redmond and the pain management injection options offered by our Family Practice physician, Dr. Tom Armsey.

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seasons change, so can your hair color.

Lexington Woman wishes all of our local football players a great season!

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2012 WHITE KNOLL HIGH SCHOOL VARSITY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

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Lexington Publix 100 Old Cherokee Road & Highway 378 803-356-6557 Inside Walmart 5556 Sunset Boulevard 803-951-3333 Redbank 1123-H South Lake Drive 803-808-2977 Mills Corner (next to Barnyard flea Market) 4360-B Augusta Road 803-356-0011

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AC Flora High School

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2012 LEXINGTON HIGH SCHOOL VARSITY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

Mike Davis, Local Agent

(803) 356-2220 1812 AUGUSTA HIGHWAY, SUITE B LEXINGTON, SC 29072 www.anpac.com

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HARDWOOD • CERAMIC • CARPET • VINYL • LAMINATE

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5343 Sunset Boulevard Ste N • Lexington

Mon-Fri: 10am to 6pm Sat: 10am to 2pm Locally Owned and Operated www.faflooringcenter.com

Business & Web Directory

C C

Accountant Newsome & Company, PC.......................... 33

THE

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FINE JEWELERS

After School Programs Rhythmics Performing Arts & Athletics..... 6 www.rhythmicsonline.com Apparel Craig Reagin Clothiers................................ 28 Mae’s on Main............................................... 28 www.maesoflexington.com The Range...................................................... 21 www.therange811.com Art and Entertainment M. Gallery Interiors, LLC............................ 31 www.mgalleryinteriors.net Sandlapper Art & Frame............................. 15 www.sandlapperart.com Attorney Kinard & Jones.............................................. 16 www.kinardandjones.com

(look for the black awning)

www.thechapmancompany.com

Landscaping Midlands Landscape...................................... 3 www.midlandslandscape.com Taylor’s Quality Landscape Supply............. 42 www.taylorspinestraw.com OB/GYN Columbia Women’s Healthcare.................. 13 www.columbiawhc.com

Children’s Therapy Carolina Behavior & Beyond...................... 31 Kinder Kids................................................... 36 www.kinderkidscsra.com

Pets Bark Art Purrfect Pet Portraits................... 21 Dog-Gone Clean Grooming....................... 21 Grace Pets Animal Hospital........................ 21 www.gracepets.com

urniture F Southern Bedding of Columbia.................... 5 www.southernbeddingofcolumbia.com

903 North Lake Drive Lexington

Jewelry Dems.............................................................. 28 www.demsjewelers.com The Chapman Company.............................. 41 www.thechapmancompany.com

Orthodontist Whitehead Orthodontics............................ 11 www.whiteheadortho.com

Fitness CrossFit Iron Mary’s....................................... 9 www.ironfit.us

803-996-5530

Insurance Davis Insurance Agency.............................. 40

Beauty Aloette.............................................................. 7 Mary Kay (Ann Bodie)................................ 42 www.marykay.com/annbodie

Computer Repair Computer Paramedics................................. 29 www.computerparamedicsofsc.com

Specializing in On-Site Repair and Custom Design

Home Services Bouknight Pumps........................................... 6 www.bouknightpumps.biz Home Maintenance Services, LLC............. 42 www.myhmspro.com

Health Services Bee Healthy Medical Weight Loss.............. 15 www.beehealthyclinics.com BrightStar Care............................................... 6 www.brightstarcare.com Lake Murray Hearing Associates............... 36 www.lakemurrayhearing.com Lexington Medical Center..... 36, Back Cover www.lexmed.com Midlands Orthopaedics, P.A....................... 38 www.midlandsortho.com The Palmetto Center.................................... 43 www.thepalmettocenter.com Vital Energy Rehab Center.......................... 35 www.vitalenergytherapy.com

Photography Clark Berry Photography....................... Inside Front Cover www.clarkberry.com Renovations Attic Attack.................................................... 40 www.atticattack.org Flooring America......................................... 40 www.faflooringcenter.com Gateway Supply Center................................ 15 www.gatewaysupply.net Tropic Aire Patio & Wicker Gallery........... 42 www.tropicaire.com Restaurants McDonald’s (South Lake Drive)................. 43 McDonald’s (Sunset Boulevard)................... 6 The Village Store........................................... 43 Salon Cost Cutters................................................... 40 www.costcutters.com Weddings The Mitchell House and Gardens................. 4 www.mitchellhouseandgardens.com

Home Builder Essex Homes......................Inside Back Cover www.essexhomes.net www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

www.taylorspinestraw.com

(803) 446-6525

5400 Augusta Road, Lexington

Assorted Rocks • Bag Products • Decorative Rock • Firewood/Railroad Ties • Fire Pits • Natural Stones Pinestraw and Mulch • Plants • Playsets • Sod • Soils, Sands, and Gravel • Trailers • Trampolines

HMS is a full service home maintenance company. Our One-Stop approach will save you money and help avoid problems with multiple contractors. HMS is locally owned and operated as well as licensed and insured. Please call on our team to get started on any of your home improvement needs and repairs.

Ann Bodie

(803) 687-0447

Visit our website for more info and to see samples of our work

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Independent Beauty Consultant (803) 646-1277 www.marykay.com/AnnBodie

COME IN AND SEE OUR NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY

5143 Platt Springs Road (803) 359-8944

World Famous Hot Dogs and Coldest Beer in Town FRESH, MADE-TO-ORDER BREAKFAST, LUNCH, and DINNER Handmade Biscuits, Fresh Fried Chicken and Sides, Delicious Ringside Pizza, Soft Serve Ice Cream, Sundaes and Shakes, plus MUCH more

Let’s CeLebrate! There’s a New McDonald’s® in Lexington.

Grand Opening Celebration

Saturday, September 1, 2012 t 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. 1770 South Lake Dr. t Lexington, SC 29073 Join us for an afternoon of family fun before the Carolina game! Plus, you’ll receive a free ice cream cone if you come dressed in Gamecock gear! *

Providing Psychological Services throughout South Carolina

Assessment. Consultation. Evidence-based treatment.

% Special appearance by Ronald McDonald® % Face painting % Live music by WNOK % Fire truck tours and police demonstrations % Prizes from Dr Pepper® and Coca Cola®** % Large electronics raffle % Free family fun for the whole Lexington community!

803.358.9410 A. Nicholas “Nick” DePace, Ph.D

*While supplies last. **Events are subject to change or cancellation without notice. Door prizes are valid only for children 16 years and under while supplies last. McDonald’s®, Coca-Cola® and Dr Pepper® employees and families are not eligible to win. ©2012 McDonald’s

123 Library Hill Lane Suite B Lexington, SC 29072

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A Personal Note

n a recent visit to see my family, my mother found herself stranded on the side of interstate somewhere near Easley, South Carolina. It was about 106 degrees that day, and when I got the call, my mind immediately went to the scorching heat. My mom is a go getter and not much slows her down; however, I was still concerned about her in the heat. Mom called AAA and I made a call myself. I called on my heavenly father; I asked him to keep her safe and to keep her cool. I forgot to pray for water. I was concerned for her immediate safety. Of course, I wasn’t the only one praying. When your mom breaks down two hours from her home and two hours from yours — the only thing you can do is try to reach her as fast as possible.

Trey

I left the office and headed to Easley. In the meantime, she reached AAA and they said it could be a couple of hours before arrival. It was Friday afternoon, and they were backed up. They would get to her as soon as possible. After talking to mom again, I was relieved to hear there was a big shade tree right beside where she was and she had some respite from the sun. “I am so thirsty,” she stated. The vehicle had stopped between two exits and there was no real chance of her walking to either one without risking injury in this South Carolina heat. As she was talking, I was reminded of the scripture that tells us “You have not because you ask not.” I decided that was exactly the problem. I had asked for a way for her to be cool and He provided the shade. I had asked for her safety so far she was fine. I did not ask for water.

Abby

On my cell phone, I Googled local churches for Pelzer, South Carolina. I was not hopeful that I would find someone at a church office at (by this time it was after 1:00pm) on a Friday afternoon. The first number I dialed just rang and rang. On the second call, I reached a gentlemen at the church office and told him of my plight. He said, “Tell your mother I am on my way with something cool to drink.” I thanked him for his help and he said he was happy to do it. And who was this man willing to drop everything and on a Friday afternoon in order to take some water to my mother? It was the Pastor of Pelzer Church of God. He could have thought himself too important to make the delivery. He could have thought someone who would never pay tithe in his congregation and likely never even visit his church was of no importance to him. But he did not. Perhaps he was studying for Sunday’s message when he received my call. Perhaps he was considering knocking off a little early to get home to his family. Regardless of what he was doing, this man of God didn’t question who I was or what my motives were, he just reached out to help someone in need. This pastor took two bottles of water to my mother (“ice cold” was the report). There he found her sitting in the air conditioned cab of a SC DOT Worker, who had just happened by and offered to stay with her until AAA arrived.

Colton

My daughter and niece were with me and they heard me pray. They also saw God answer my prayer in a very real and tangible way. This Pastor of the little church in Pelzer, South Carolina taught me a lesson that day with his kindness and generosity. Let us never be too busy to allow God to use us. I am so thankful we have a God who is our very present help in time of need. I challenge you to be a blessing to someone today. God Bless you,

Matthew 25:45 And he will answer, ‘I tell you the truth, when you refused to help the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were refusing to help me.’

Lori Samples Duncan

Ryan 44

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COLUMBIA CARDIOLOGY IS NOW

Lexington Cardiology

Left to right: Dr. Stephen E. Van Horn Jr.; Dr. William D. Brearley Jr.; Dr. Joseph J. Lawton III; Dr. Michael C. Roberts; Dr. Robert M. Malanuk; Dr. Amy Rawl Epps; Dr. R. Taylor Williams; Dr. Richard E. Umbach; Dr. S. Stanley Juk Jr.

The name is new, but the experience and talent of the physicians have served patients across South Carolina for more than 30 years. ,EXINGTON -EDICAL #ENTER IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THAT THE PHYSICIANS OF #OLUMBIA #ARDIOLOGY HAVE JOINED OUR .ETWORK OF #ARE AS ,EXINGTON #ARDIOLOGY !LSO JOINING THE ,EXINGTON -EDICAL #ENTER .ETWORK OF #ARE IS 7ILLIAM $ "REARLEY *R -$ THE MOST RECENT PHYSICIAN TO BECOME PART OF ,EXINGTON #ARDIOLOGY 7E RE EXCITED TO WELCOME THESE NINE EXPERIENCED PHYSICIANS AND THE STAFF OF THIS PRACTICE AS THEY CONTINUE TO PROVIDE THE HIGHEST LEVEL OF CARE IN THE TREATMENT OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE AT THREE CONVENIENT LOCATIONS

,AUREL 3TREET 3UITE s #OLUMBIA 3# Phone s Fax 3UNSET #OURT s 7EST #OLUMBIA 3# Phone s Fax 4HE #OMMONS s ,UGOFF 3# Phone s Fax

! ,EXINGTON -EDICAL #ENTER 0HYSICIAN 0RACTICE