Lexington Woman Magazine

VOL 7, NO 2

COMPLIMENTARY

CELEBRATING, MOTIVATING, AND EDUCATING WOMEN

Real

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MEET LOCAL SINGER

Jon Michaels Read about a local man’s journey to The Today Show

EXTREME MAKEOVERS From personal to home changes — it’s the perfect time of year!

It Takes a VILLAGE

April Meyers shares her experience with her daughter Alissa’s Type 1 Diabetes

In this Issue

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www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Lori Samples Duncan (loriduncan86@gmail.com)

MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES

Crystal Poston Cathy Williams (info@lexingtonwomanonline.com)

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Judy H. Cook Lori Samples Duncan Sondra Gettys Mayor Randy Halfacre Ashby Jones Jamie Lober Tim Loonam, DVM Beth McCrary Tripp Newsome Rob Nieders, D.M.D. Elaine Samples Susan R. Schneider Suzy Shay Mary Hollis Stuck Tommy Tipton Trina F. Winde

COVER PHOTO

Clark Berry Photography

DESIGN

Melissa W. Morris

PHOTOGRAPHY Clark Berry Photography Robert Patrick Image Design

From the Editor

4 It’s Makeover Time!

Events

5 What’s Happening?

Things We Love!

6 Things We Love about Lexington!

Let’s Talk

7

8 9

10

12 15

16

How to Make Your Eyes Look Bigger with Eyeliner in the World of Makeup!

Nancy K. Perry Children’s Shelter Talk of the Town with Mayor Randy Halfacre A Lexington Resident’s Journey to The Today Show Lexington School of Music Frames & Fashion: Not Just an Optical Illusion Get Ready for Spring with Aqua Salon

Celebrating the Survivor in You!

Find us on facebook!

18 In Her Own Words...

Dr. Thrisha Good Shiver

Health & Wellness

22

25

27

29

It Takes a Village to Raise a Child with Type 1 Diabetes...

A Walk from Obesity – Great Strides in Weight Loss Extreme Lifestyle Makeover with Lila D. and Vital Energy Occupational Therapy and Wellness Center For you and your child’s teeth: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!

Pets

31 The Ashby Chronicle: Pet Appeal 34 Traveling with Pets

Professional

36

37 39

40

Greater Lexington Chamber honors community servants, businessmen Learning a Little Tax Lingo A New Mission: Tommy and E’lane Tipton Home Makeovers

Business & Web Directory 43 Contact our Advertisers

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. © 2013

Personal Note 44 Be Grateful

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

/" 6,2 )&01"+&+$ WWW 7-(+ COM

Real Women ! MINISTRY OF #OLUMBIA )NTERNATIONAL 5NIVERSITY

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

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S

pring is here! Well okay not entirely but it is just around the corner, and baseball in Lexington has begun.

I am excited about this issue because it is one of my favorite themes, extreme makeovers. I just love a good makeover. I can’t help myself. It doesn’t matter if it’s just a new coat of paint and new linens or if we have redesigned an entire room, I get excited about changes.

Last year we featured small business person of the year, Mandy Summers on the cover of our Extreme Makeover issue and it was a huge hit. Mandy said she got so much positive feedback that she was overwhelmed by the positive response. We hope you like this issue just as much, and if you missed Mandy’s story log on to www.lexingtonwomanonline.com to read that issue. Makeovers aren’t always about furniture and wall hangings, and some of my favorite stories to tell are the ones where real women in our community saw a need, made a life change, and madeover their own lives and many others.

Could there be anything to make your life over more than finding out your child has a life threatening illness? That is exactly what happened to our cover story about April and Alissa Meyers. No makeover issue would be complete without a weight loss story. Keep your eyes peeled — we have another weight loss story that is sure to inspire you as well, in the next issue of Lexington Woman Magazine.

Check out our online gallery of photos for Home Maintenance. The images in this issue are just a sampling of the kind of makeover he can help you with.

This issue is packed with fun stories and inspiring ones, from the local guy, John, who wrote a jingle and ended up in New York City to the Nancy K. Perry Children’s Shelter and our inspiring cancer survivor Thrisha Shriver. Thanks for reading and keep telling us what you think. Our advertisers help make every issue of Lexington Woman Magazine available to you, so visit them and tell them where you saw them!

Your friend,

Lori Samples Duncan Editor-in-Chief

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Events

What’s HAPPENING? BBQ Chicken Benefit for Cindy’s Place at Springdale Elementary March 22, 12 – 6 p.m.

Platt Springs United Methodist Church

Please join us for a BBQ Chicken benefit in Springdale. Chicken dinners are $10.00 each and include grilled chicken, slaw, beans, and rolls. The dinners will be available for purchase and pick-up at Platt Springs Methodist Church. All proceeds will be given to Cindy’s Place, a joint-use-initiative to transform a school playground into a community outdoor fitness park for people of all abilities. Please help us in our efforts to make Cindy’s Place a landmark place to visit, play and exercise in Springdale.

Kids Easter Celebration March 23, 10 a.m., Ages 2–12 Northwood Baptist Church

803.996.5100

We will have the Easter Resurrection Story done in a fun way, Easter Egg Hunt, snacks, games, bouncy houses; bring your children and let us love them.

Have them bring their Easter basket. For questions, please call 260-5114.

www.whiteheadortho.com 3rd Annual Oyster Roast March 28, 6 – 10 p.m.

Saluda River Club

The Greater Lexington Chamber & Visitors Center invite you to the 3rd annual Oyster Roast...down by the river. There will be lots of oysters, delicious food from several local restaurants, libations and live music! Tickets are $40 (all inclusive) and can be purchased at the website below or by calling the chamber at 359-6113. www.lexingtonsc.org

Fight Like a Girl: Round 6 April 19, 7 – 11:30 p.m.

Columbia Conference Center

Dr. James D. Whitehead III

203 Mallard Lakes Drive Lexington, SC 29072 Schedule ts p A pointmen Now!

Now Open in White Knoll!

1781 South Lake Drive, Ste. A Lexington, SC 29073

Presented by the Ta-tinis, ticket holders will enjoy a delicious dinner and dessert buffet and dancing the night away to live jazz provided by Elliot and the Untouchables. The casino tables will be up and running with anxious dealers – ready to provide everyone’s favorite Vegas-style games and entertainment. Proceeds from the event will directly benefit the SCOA CARES Foundation. www.theta-tinis.com

Kenny Chesney’s No Shoes Nation May 4, 5 p.m.

Colonial Life Arena, Columbia

The Corona Light Presents Kenny Chesney’s ‘No Shoes Nation’ Tour, starring Kenny Chesney, will

feature Zac Brown Band. Special guests, Eli Young Band and Kacey Musgraves will also take the stage. www.ColonialLifeArena.com

2013 Chick-fil-A Leadercast May 10, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Lexington Technology Center at Lexington High School

This is a one-day leadership event broadcast LIVE from Atlanta directly to your community. Join us for an unforgettable day of inspiration, learning, connecting and more. Speakers include Jack Welch, Andy Stanley, Mike Krzyzewski, John C. Maxwell, Dr. Henry Cloud, LCDR Rorke Denver, Sanya Richards-Ross, David Allen, and Condoleezza Rice (via exclusive video interview). Registration opens at 8 a.m. Proceeds from the event support Work-Based Learning summer camps held at no cost to students.

Camps are offered in Healthcare, IT, STEM, and Agribusiness. To purchase tickets, visit the website below or call (803) 821-3422. www.lexington1.net/educationalfoundation

Columbia Choral Society Spring Concert May 14, 7:00 p.m.

St. Peters Catholic Church

Join the Columbia Choral Society and the Ridgeview High School Advanced Chorus as we welcome the coming of spring. We are also celebrating the 100th birthday of Benjamin Britten. Both choirs will perform works by Benjamin Britten as well as works by other composers. The Columbia Choral Society is directed by Christopher Jacobson. The Ridgeview High School Advanced chorus is directed by Brian Glosh. For more information about The Choral Society please visit the website below or call (803) 9339060. Tickets will be on sale at the door. www.columbiachoralsociety.org

Pet Pawty 2013 May 18, Pet Walk at 8:30 – 9 a.m., Other events from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Red Bank Horse Arena

Organized by Lexington County Recreation and Aging Commission, this fundraising event and pet food drive benefits Meals on Wheels seniors and their pets. Hunger is a serious issue among Lexington County seniors and their pets. Please no more than 2 pets per person. All pet vaccinations must be up to date. No retractable leashes are allowed on the day’s event. Sponsor and vendor opportunities are available! For more information, contact Donna Neel (dneel@lcrac.com), Farris Lupo (flupo@lcrac.com), or call (803) 356-5111. www.lcrac.com/events

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Things We Love!

AROUND TOWN

Things We

About Lexington!

by Lori Samples Duncan

The Mitchell House If you have never attended a wedding or a party given at the Mitchell House and Gardens in Lexington, you are missing out.

Every detail is thought of and no stone goes unturned. It is lovely from the entrance to the gardens. Oh, and a little birdie told me that the groom’s cake is out of this world!

Aqua Nails & Spa Ever Since Amy and Jennifer came to town a few years ago, I am hard pressed to go anywhere else for real liquid gel nails. This salon offers great quality service and a lovely relaxing atmosphere.

Richard Culliver (Richards Journey on Facebook) This young man has touched my heart, with his sweet antics and his mother has broken my heart over and over by her posts and her comments. Richard is fighting for his life as cancer threatens to take him from us, and in

essence, unless God intervenes, the doctors have done all they can. His mom has found a way to be grateful for every moment she has with Richard and cherish it. The other thing I love about Richard’s Journey is that Lexington has wrapped their arms around him just like we have for Kennedy and is joining together in prayer and kindness to help this precious family. If you are not following, I would recommend it, but be prepared to cry.

We will be joining others in our community on March 23rd for a fundraiser at the White Knoll McDonald’s to help his mom continue to stay home with Richard.

OGES teacher receives PalmettoPride grant

Oak Grove Elementary Third-Grade Teacher Amy Case received a $1,329 PalmettoPride Litter Trashes Everyone Educational grant.

Oak Grove Elementary used the grant money to purchase recycling bins for the school’s Recycling Program led by Case. Students from all grade levels can participate in the program, which teaches students the importance of recycling.

The school also plans to hold a Clean-Up day in the spring where students will have the opportunity to help pick up trash along Oak Drive in front of the school.

Grandparents I love my grandparents.

Only one is still with us, and I would like to wish her a very Happy Birthday. On March 7th, Miss Maggie Day turns 86 years young.

She is an inspiration to all who know her, and she is one of the toughest ladies I know. I love to sit and talk with her about the way things were. She is a fountain of information.

Oak Grove Elementary Teacher Amy Case and her third-grade students (front row) Will Sharpe, Davin Hughes, Romello Matos, Makayla Davis, Jack Haley, Blake Miller, (back row) Tyler May, Caitlin Gemmill, Amaya Jackson, Hayley Spears, Evelyn Lopez, Kody Ashley, Hayley Stanley and Caleb Buff

PHMS Lady Cougars win third region title

The Lady Cougars defeated White Knoll Middle in the Palmetto Athletic Conference (PAC) region 15 championship game with a score of 27-9.

Pleasant Hill Middle Girls Basketball Team members (front) Summer Rogers, Ericka Sims, Olivia Thompson, Megan Classer, Kate Hart, Ayanna Langford, Rachel Cousins, (back) Teygan Bouknight, Katie Koesters, Iyana Patterson, Sam St. Andrews, Alanna Langford, Paige Gajewski, Coach Ron Mulligan, Suzanne Ciuffo and Assistant Coach Ryan Carpenter

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Let’s Talk photo by Clark Berry Photography

How to Make Your Eyes Look Bigger with Eyeliner in the World of Makeup!

by Judy H. Cook

Judy Cook

I

f you’ve ever seen one of those big-eyed supermodels lounging around without makeup, you might be surprised to see that their eyes don’t necessarily look all that huge.

That’s because in professional shoots, makeup artists have a number of tricks at their disposal to make models’ eyes look bigger with a simple, skillful application of eyeliner. And now we’re going to reveal those tricks to you.

the barrel of the self-sharpening pencil slightly to create a precise point of color. You want the thinnest tip possible so that your lines are sharp. (Thick lines will tend to make your eyes recede and look smaller.)

You need to start out with an application of foundation or primer to ensure that your eyeliner will remain in place and not smudge over the course of the day. Even if you don’t wear cosmetics on the rest of your face, it’s important to apply some sort of base coat to your eyes so the eyeliner will set.

Start your application with the inner lid, first pulling the eye down, and then applying a line along the lower lid, trailing the lash line.

Next, hold the eye up and apply a similar thin line along the upper lid. Be sure to fill in the corners of the eyes as well. This will make your eyes pop out dramatically.

For application, we suggest an eye defining pencil with smudger. Try to choose a shade which will pick up and enhance the natural colors in your iris. Start by turning

The next step is to close one eye, pulling the lid and the lashes down, and then applying the eyeliner along the top of the lash line.

Here you don’t want to start trac-

ing at the crease, but rather at the outer ridge from where the lashes begin, or even slightly past that.

You can create an exotic, cat eye effect by extending the line past the corner slightly.

Once you have a thin line trailing the lashes, thicken the middle of it to create the illusion of a larger eye. Then, using the smudger built into the eye defining pencil, soften that outer line to create a sizzling, smoky look.

Every spring/summer and fall/winter, makeup experts exhibit their new lines of products and colors in eye shadows, blushes, lipsticks and penalized dusts and sparkles.

Check out the standard fashion magazines for color trends that shows the new harmonious palette

ranging from diverse landscapes to emphatically dark, sophisticated hues. Living in the World of western culture is a thing of the past, as the world has gotten smaller through the modern electronic devices, fashion, motion pictures, music videos and television. The word beautiful means something to every culture, ethnicity ad society and varies from region to region and continent to continent.

Todays color for eyes, blushers and lips come on a rainbow of colors that are pearlized, opalescent, metallicized, shimmery, glittery, matte, shiny, opaque, translucent, sheer and glossy. So the world of color and texture is at your fingertips. Experiment and have fun trying new looks.

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Nancy K. Perry Children’s Shelter

by Jamie Lober

photos by Clark Berry Photography

E

very Lexington family should be familiar with the Nancy K. Perry Children’s Shelter. “We are a residential facility for children who are in the custody of the Department of Social Services and they have been removed from their homes because of sexual or physical abuse, abandonment, neglect, exploitation or caregiver emergency,” said Jarrell Smith, executive director. These kids have been through a lot of trauma and the shelter offers them a safe haven. “We serve ages birth through eighteen and try to provide a loving home-like environment with house parents that work here and live on site,” said Smith.

While everyone may not be aware of what an invaluable community resource the Nancy K. Perry Children’s Shelter is, they are far from new. “We just had our fortieth birthday and have been in business since 1972 trying to make our shelter as much like a family and a home as possible,” said Smith. The kids go to the public schools and remain very active as they have access to mental health services and skill development classes. While they have great opportunities at their fingertips, it can be an adjustment for kids. “The first thing they need to know is that they are in a safe place and everything will be alright which can take two to three days to realize,” said Smith.

o’clock all the grades are home and we have a homework program, dinner and then they watch a little television or play outside if the weather is nice before they start to get ready for bed,” said Smith. The weekends are busy but fun. “They go to church and afterwards out to eat or to special events, we have a recreational program in the summer and they get to go camping, to art classes and just be exposed to as many different experiences as possible,” said Smith.

The typical day starts at six in the morning where kids shower, get dressed and go to school. “By four

Volunteers and donations are both welcome at the shelter. “Donations go toward the general running of the shelter and people can volunteer to help tutor in the homework program, work with the children or serve as handymen that fix things,” said Smith. There is a role for everyone to make a differ-

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Real Women

ence with the hope that these kids have positive outcomes. “The kids will not be cured when they leave here by any stretch but it will be a journey of a lifetime dealing with what they have been through,” said Smith. The idea is for their time at the shelter to be a rewarding experience. “People get excited to see the children make progress, make changes and see how far they have come,” said Smith.

Most kids do well at the Nancy K. Perry Children’s Shelter. “They are appreciative of everything and like most kids, they need a lot of attention and affection,” said Smith.

Some of the kids are looking for families and a good number have been adopted, though it is all handled through the Department of Social Services. “It gives you a lot of satisfaction making a differ-

ence and having contact and involvement in the kids’ lives during what is a stressful time for them,” said Smith. The key is to be understanding and open-minded. “A lot of times the kids are coming out of a traumatic, chaotic home environment and then they are yanked out and do not know where they are going so it can take time for them to come out of their shell and realize that everything is going to be okay,” said Smith. Something as simple as being there for them can have a measurable impact. “The best advice I can give is to listen to them, be affectionate and supportive,” said Smith. Everyone can make a difference in some way. “This is the only shelter I am aware of in Lexington County,” said Smith. We are fortunate to have this wonderful place in our community.

Let’s Talk

TALK

of the town

with MAYOR RANDY HALFACRE

S

ince being elected to Council in 1994 and serving as your Mayor since 2004, I have always understood the number one concern and priority for Lexington has been traffic. The Town has grown by leaps and bounds, 83% since the 2000 Census, making us the fourth fastest growing municipality in South Carolina.

Council and I have been committed to addressing the traffic issue and are proud to announce that Phase I of the Unified Traffic Improvement Plan is underway. We have worked tirelessly with SCDOT for the last eight years, to turn this dream into fruition.

It is hard to believe but the Town has managed to be on the shorter timeline for projects to start ongoing construction through the DOT process. During our long anticipated wait, we were able to secure $14 million in funding to help launch the project.

project has been developing with the essential purchase of right-of-way, which gave the jump started needed to see trucks currently on Butler St. The project itself is slated to take 24 months and also includes Columbia Ave., Reed St., Main St., Old Chapin Rd. and Park Rd. The Town will keep you informed step-by-step of the progress and SCDOT has committed to working during the overnight hours, helping to eliminate any additional traffic burdens on our community.

Learn more about the Unified Traffic Improvement Plan and our other 2012 accomplishments from my State of the Town Address which can be found on our website at www.lexsc.com.

Randy Halfacre, Mayor Town of Lexington

Even though construction just began, the

New Members of the Chamber (As of January 2013) 4D Engineering (803) 917-2903 All Star Pizza Company (803) 359-7740 Alva R. Cox (803) 730-5575 ASP of the Midlands (803) 719-7665 Avis/Budget (803) 822-5110 Burr & Associates, LLC (803) 404-5555 C3 King Consulting (803) 422-2701 Catalyst Architects (803) 358-6565

SERVING THE MIDLANDS

(803) 356-8080

www.midlandslandscape.com

Darla Jennings, LLC (803) 920-4279 Drs. Smith & Robinson, PA (803) 359-9991 Harry Deith

Hwy 55 Burgers Shakes & Fries (803) 359-9090 Jani-King (803) 295-1471

Posh Creative Designs, LLC (803) 422-7118 Rhythmics Performing Arts, Inc. (803) 926-0247

Jan-Pro of Columbia (803) 520-5230

Service Master Building Maintenance (803) 561-1384

Jeff Howle, Heath Insurance Broker (803) 678-8121

Smile Columbia Dentistry (803) 781-9090

Kudzu Staffing (803) 217-3320 Lexington Lodge #152 AFM (803) 359-4446

The Chicken Shack (803) 399-1103 The Michael Jeffcoat Firm (803) 808-9600

Lexington School of Music (803) 240-7276 LJS Benefit Consultants, LLC (803) 873-0976 Novesis, Inc. (803) 359-3123 Pink Lotus Yoga Center (803) 931-2074 www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

A Lexington Resident’s Journey

to The Today Show

by Trina F. Winde

photos by Clark Berry Photography

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Let’s Talk

O

ne of Lexington’s own, Jon Michaels was named the winner of NBC’s “Quest for the Best Today Show Jingle” contest. He performed the jingle live on the Today Show January 29th as sixteen time Grammy award winning producer, David Foster proclaimed, “If I had to produce a 30 second hot spot for the Today Show I would go with Jon”.

When asked how he felt as Foster called his name, Jon replied with a smile, “This is really awesome.”

When you meet Jon Michaels you think, “Wow this is a cool guy.” He

smile, “But don’t tell my brothers and sisters.”

Even when he decided to leave his job as an investment broker in Los Angeles to move to Nashville,

‘It was the loving suggestion of a friend to enter the Today Show contest and the watchful eye of my mother aligning the stars to bring this once in a lifetime moment to reality.’ exudes confidence and a sense of warmth that sets you immediately at ease.

He will tell you how his five year old daughter Jennings is the apple of his eye and how lucky he is to have met his wife Jeannie. By all standards, he appears to be your average, hardworking, great guy.

However, looks can be deceiving, this is no average guy. Jon was raised in Southern California by a single mom. After his father left, she provided for her six children with no assistance. Life was not always easy but Jon has many fond memories of his childhood.

Jon’s mother was very influential in his life. She was always a source of strength for him.

“My mom was my rock,” he says.

“I’d like to think I was my mom’s favorite,” he says with a mischievous

his mom remained his staunchest supporter. She instilled a sense of tenacity in him growing up that opened doors of opportunity.

Jon immersed himself in the Nashville music scene for almost 18 years, spending all of his time writing music and performing.

“Nashville is graduate school for songwriters,” Jon says.

One night when he was playing the famous Bluebird Café in Nashville, he caught the ear of Christina Pirello, a nationally recognized chef on PBS. For three seasons Jon was a regular performer on the Christina Cooks show. Those reruns still play on SCETV. While in Nashville, Jon had the opportunity to perform with such greats as Michael McDonald, BJ Thomas, John Sebastian of the Lovin’ Spoonful and the Kingston Trio as well as write songs for Clint

Jon, Jeannie, and Jennings Black, Ray Herndon, Tracy Lawrence and Ty Herndon.

In 2005 Jon married the love of his life Jeannie and lost the other, his mother Paula. It was a bittersweet time in his life but he forged ahead.

“I have always felt like my mom was my angel, guiding my music. I still feel her with me,” he says.

Jon made the decision to move to his wife’s hometown of Columbia and establish roots for them.

In 2007 they welcomed a daughter, Jennings.

“I wanted her to grow up to be just

like her mommy and we fell in love with Lexington. What a great place to raise a family.”

“It was the loving suggestion of a friend to enter the Today Show contest and the watchful eye of my mother aligning the stars to bring this once in a lifetime moment to reality,” Jon says. “The coup de gras was the outpouring of love from my family and friends.”

Jon enjoys working as a financial advisor while pursuing opportunities to write more jingles, television and movie theme songs. His body of work includes The Today Show, Tennessee Titans Radio Network, NBC Movie of The Week and PBS.

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

11

Lexington School of Music

by Elaine Samples

S

ince 2003, Marty Fort (a former 20 Under 40 State Newspaper Award Winner) has operated the Columbia Arts Academy on Rosewood Drive in Shandon. (www.ColumbiaArtsAcademy.com). What began as a one room guitar studio called “Marty Fort Guitar Studio” has grown into the largest private music school in the state of South Carolina, with over 650 students ages 4and up taking guitar, piano, voice, bass, drums, ukulele, and rock band classes.

On January 14th, the Columbia Arts Academy opened its second location, the Lexington School of Music, in Suite A2 at the Old Lexington Mill next to CrossFit Iron Mary’s Gym. Director Marty Fort says about the expansion: “We’re very excited to be in Lexington. It’s an addition we’ve wanted to make for years. So many of our teachers and clients live in Lexington, so it was a natural fit. The Lexington Old Mill has a lake right outside our front door, plenty of parking, and a really modern upscale space for teaching lessons. It’s going to be a great addition to the Lexington Fine Arts Scene. In less than 30 days we’ve enrolled 100 students at our Lexington location, so the response has been loud and fast.”

The Academy holds recitals every May and December because one of the things that is most important to Fort is that students get to perform in a first class recital hall with a Steinway grand piano.

“It’s a lot more than just a teacher

“We hold our recitals at USC or Columbia College, and one of the criteria is that they have a grand piano and world class acoustics. Recitals are so important for the development of our young and adult students. If you’re going to host a recital, it needs to be in the best

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

There are a lot of music schools in the Midlands area, but Fort has worked hard to create a “whole” experience for music students.

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and a room. The music lesson experience we give here includes great customer service to the parents, including communication on how their child is doing. For adults, they get first class treatment from the office to make sure everything is going smooth with their lessons.

We are one of the only schools in the Midlands that has full time office staff to assist our clients for just music lessons.”

facility possible. Also, all of our recitals are free and there are no participation fees.”

Technology is also a big part of lessons at Lexington School of Music. Fort is finishing the installations of for $10,000 worth of LED monitors in each classroom.

The monitors have cables that can attach to iPods, iPads, or laptops.

This allows students to have a modern and engaging lesson using music teaching apps, music software, Skype, and more.

“One of the things that has really set up apart is our focus on providing lessons that are fresh, new, and engaging. There are so many great teaching apps out there now that I felt we had to update our teaching rooms with LED monitors. By doing so, our students have never run the risk of being bored by their lessons. It’s a challenge to engage children or adults, but by integrating technology such as teach-

ing apps from the iTunes store, GarageBand, ProTools, you name it, we’re providing a cutting edge lesson experience in the Lexington area. Our Rosewood location already has them in use and they will be installed in Lexington in a few weeks in our new space.”

The school is open to everyone ages 4 and up. With private lessons in voice, guitar, piano, bass, drums, banjo and ukulele, there’s something for everyone and it’s never too late to start. The school also holds Rock Band classes at their Rosewood location. Additionally, they look forward to starting their Music Fun and Play program for ages 2 and up within the upcoming months.

Lessons are being held now, so interested students should call: (803) 929-7867 or visit www.LexingtonSchoolofMusic.com.

LEXINGTON SCHOOL OF MUSIC GRAND OPENING Nobody teaches guitar, voice, bass, piano, drums, banjo, ukulele and rock band like we do for ages 2 and up!

A division of the Columbia Arts Academy Over 1,600 families.

Ten years.

South Carolina’s Largest Nationally Famous Music School.

Three Reasons Why You'll Want Your Son Or Daughter To Be With The Lexington School of Music!

1. Guitar, Voice, Piano, Drums, Bass, Banjo, Ukulele, Mandolin lessons in ONE location!

We are the only school in Lexington, South Carolina that offers all of these popular instruments: Electric & Acoustic Guitar, Voice, Piano, Bass, Drum set, Banjo, Ukulele, Mandolin in one location.

2. The largest & most qualied teaching faculty in Lexington who will teach you the songs you want to learn.

We have 35 music teachers, all with either University training or professional performance experience. Our music teachers are dedicated to learning about your personal musical goals and helping you to achieve them. With at least three music teachers for every instrument, we are con?dent that we have the right teacher to meet your needs. In addition to their teaching credentials, our teachers have warm personalities, are extremely friendly and dedicated to teaching you the style of music that you want to learn.

3. The widest range of lesson times available six days a week to fit your busy schedule.

9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Monday - Friday 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. on Saturdays

Now is the time to sign up for March music lessons.

At both of our schools over 700 students will take our lessons and space is first come, first serve so call today!

803.929.7867

Sign up for lessons & receive a $25.00 registration for free.

$25.00 Expires 03/31/13

or request more info online: LexingtonSchoolofMusic.com

Cannot be combined with any other offer. Limit 1 per household. Must be surrendered at original time of registration.

In the Lexington Old Mill next to Cross Fit Mary’s in Suite A2 711 E. Main Street • Lexington, SC 29072

Mitchell House andGardens

An Elegant Venue for your Wedding, Reception, Social or Busness Event Still some dates available for spring and summer 2013.

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Bridal • Prom • Tuxedo Rentals • Shoes Veils • Tiaras • Jewelry • Invitations

CALL TODAY and SCHEDULE YOUR YEARLY EYE EXAM 803.996.2020 Like Us on Facebook! www.facebook.com/envisionfamilyeyecare 803.996.2020 • 5166 Sunset Boulevard, Suite J, Lexington www.EnvisionFamilyEyeCare.com

(803) 315-3105 1787 Southlake Dr. Suite H • Lexington, SC 29073

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803.996.8665

254 Corley Mill Road, Lexington, SC 29072 (803) 661-7557 14

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Let’s Talk

Frames & Fashion: Not Just An Optical Illusion

by Mary Hollis Stuck

W

ith spring right around the corner, everyone is focusing on the “re.” Re-decorating. Re-modeling. Re-styling. Spring brings a chance to change everything, from your living room décor to your wardrobe to your hairstyle (can we say “bangs”?). However, with all of this re-doing, most are forgetting one key factor: your eyewear. As an optician at Envision Family Eyecare, I make it my mission to stay on top of what is trending in optical fashion.

Think about how many pairs of shoes you have in your closet. Pumps, flats, sandals, wedges. You have shoes to go with your work attire, your little black dress, even your beach coverup. Now, think about your eyewear.

Chances are, you have one pair, and you probably don’t remember how long you have had them. What so many people fail to realize is that glasses are not just a necessity, they are an accessory! You wouldn’t wear the same pair of shoes from the office to a day at the beach; why should you do that with your eyewear?

styles. One of my favorites is the new “geekchic,” a style that refers to the large frames once popular in the days of “Mad Men.” Those large lenses and dark frames are racing back into style. Keep in mind that your new frames can be chosen to play to various sides of your personality. The right frame can turn you into a serious looking businesswoman, able to instill confidence and trust among your clients, or showcase your fashionista side with their flare and color. However, when faced with a wall of frames that all seem to blend in together, it is easy to get overwhelmed.

That is what opticians are here for. No matter what your style is, I am here to help you keep your look updated and fresh.

What so many people fail to realize is that glasses are not just a necessity, they are an accessory!

Today, fashion includes frames.

Turn on a celebrity gossip show, or pick up a magazine at a check-out counter, and you will see stars rocking their bold new specs. We have news for you: frames are fashionable again.

Take a tip from the celebs who are owning up to their Rx. Jennifer Aniston, Anne Hathaway and Kate Upton are among the many who are not afraid to go big. When you look in the mirror, you may not even notice those frames you have been wearing for three years. Now that it’s 2013, it’s time to re-vamp your look.

While many tend to play it safe, frames are ever changing to encompass all different

Like other fashions, new frames are coming out and old styles are getting pulled off the shelves every few months. While the geek chic may not work for everyone, there is certainly a frame that will update your look and compliment your style, giving you the confidence to take on the new year. But remember: you are not alone. Come see me at Envision Family Eyecare for an optical upgrade.

Anne Hathaway

Jennifer Aniston

Rashida Jones

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

15

GET READY for SPRING with AQUA NAILS & SPA

by Lori Samples Duncan

photo by Robert Patrick Image Design

I

always tell my nieces, “Look better. Feel Better.” Going a step further, recently when listening to a group of directors discuss a potential recruit, I found it interesting that one ruled her out because her nail polish was chipped.

Let’s face it: we are often judge based on how we present ourselves. At Aqua Nails & Spa, they have just what you need for your presentation.

Looking good begins with taking care of ourselves. I remember the first time a doctor asked me if I was taking vitamins (around the age of 30). At Aqua Nails & Spa, they carry vitamins for children, expecting mothers, men, and women. As Amy at Aqua says, “I work a lot and sometimes I do not have time to eat the nutrients that I need (8-13 servings of fruits and vegetables per day), so I take vitamins.” I can certainly relate…

Featuring different products that give you energy and help keep your mind clear, Aqua Nails & Spa carries supplements that are essential for both the working woman and stay at home mom. They also carry a new product line, the gold line, which features all natural products.

Amy and Jennifer, of Aqua Nails & Spa make it a habit to provide

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

excellence in their salon, the new all natural products are exciting, however, to me the most exciting thing about this family run business is the quality of their services.

I am a woman who talks with her hands, and as such, I won’t even wear my wedding rings if my nails are not “done”. Since arriving in Lexington, I have frequented two salons. I said two, that is, until I found Aqua Nails & Spa. Now, I frequent one salon. I love the liquid gel nails. They use the same products that my favorite spa in Alanta, Georgia uses.

It never ceases to amaze me two weeks or longer after my nails have been filled in, I still have women complimenting me and wanting to know where I get my manicures.

Of course, I send them to the ladies at Aqua Nails & Spa. I invite you to go see these la-

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dies and their co-workers. I don’t think you will be disappointed. It is more than a typical run of the mill salon, not only in the superior quality of their work but in the way they embrace our community and become more than techs to their customers.

They also offer detoxification and skincare products, as well as beautification services such as eyebrow waxing, traditional manicures, all natural pedicures, and eyelash lengthening.

Sometimes life is busy and you don’t necessarily know how your day is going to go…for that reason, Aqua Nails & Spa tries very hard to accommodate walk-in customers. But, if you have a favorite technician, it is always best to make an appointment. They are the only spot we are aware of, in the Lexington area, that does the

photo by Clark Berry Photography

new gel nails, which are much less harsh and better for your natural nail.

“We got tired of going into the salon every day and having our breath taken away from the odors,” says Jenn. “Around that time, this new gel nail came out, so we tried it. A lot of salons gave up on it because of the high skill level required. We decided that we wanted it bad enough, so we continued to practice until we mastered the craft. It helps that we do not have to endear the strong odor of acrylic.”

Whether you need a little more pep in your step, some extra shine to your skin, or a little more length when batting those eyelashes, the team at Aqua Nails & Spa can help you out. I always feel better when I look better!

Non-Chemical Liquid Gel Nails Manicures | Pedicures | Waxing | Facial | Massage

Relax, Refresh, Rejuvenate

Become our friends on facebook at "Aqua Nails Spa" for specials!

1223 South Lake Drive, Suite C, Lexington | (803) 359-0585 | www.aquanailsandspasc.com

Looking for Academic Excellence with a Biblical Perspective?

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“We are so amazed at the positive changes in our children after just a few months at NCA. Their academic and spiritual growth has enormously exceeded our expectations. Our children have a new found desire to go to school and learn!”

- Drs. Randy and Billie Jean Colby

So generations to come might know Him. Psalm 78:4

4347 Sunset Blvd. • Lexington, SC 29072 www.northsidechristianacademy.org | 803.520.5656

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

17

In Her Own Words

DR. THRISHA GOOD SHIVER

(left) 2008 Surviving the Holidays Fashion Show (below) 2009 Surviving the Holidays Fashion Show (photos by Clark Berry Photography)

18

Real Women Lexington Woman c e l e b r a t e s t h e s u r v i vo r i n yo u

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Celebrating the

I

Survivor in You!

can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13. This scripture is one of the promises from God that sustained me through my journey of breast cancer.

When I was asked to share my story in Lexington Woman, I saw this as another way God was blessing me to help others who are going through with what I went through one year and ten months ago. As I sat down to write, I reread my journal where I had chronicled my daily meditations, and emotions.

This was the second time I actually cried about having cancer. But they were tears of great joy. I couldn’t help but to thank God for bringing me through this year. God is amazing! He healed me and I am a witness of His awesome Power.

As I reflect on this phase of my life, I will share with you my experiences about one of the most drastic changing moments of my life, being told that I had breast cancer. I have read many stories and articles on cancer and asked myself what can I write that will be any different from what other cancer survivors had already shared.

Our stories are similar in that we all survived a disease that use to be considered a death sentence. Then I told myself, even though we are cancer survivors who endured some difficult times, we each have a story to tell, and my story just might inspire someone to keep on keeping on.

I decided not to write a story that dwelled on the days of pain, chemotherapy, radiation, loss of my hair, depression, fatigue, finger nails and toe nails turning black, dry skin, nausea, loss of appetite, and joint stiffness. Instead I wanted to share the lessons learned as I went through this journey. I want to be a light of hope and a source of inspiration for others – not

just cancer victims, but everyone.

I want people to see that there is life during and after cancer. I want others to see that this is the time that you have to hold onto all the faith you can find.

then. She said “it is cancer.” Unshaken, I asked “what’s next.” She asked me to come in the following day to discuss the next step. As I continued to drive home, I do not recall having feelings of fear.

For years I had my annual mammograms as my doctor recommended and was given a clean slate every year. I even did the self-breast exam and thought I was fine.

But on July 9, 2008, the mammogram results revealed that I needed further tests. I had an ultrasound done the same day. The radiologist suggested that I have a core biopsy done immediately and made all of the arrangements for me. I began to feel the urgency of this situation, but I remained calm and kept believing all of this was simply precautionary measures.

When I arrived at my doctor’s office to discuss the next steps, she introduced my cancer navigation

I want to be a light of hope and a source of inspiration for others — not just cancer victims, but everyone.

On July 16, 2008, I had an appointment with my surgeon; the biopsy was done, and I was told the results would be in a few days. My family and the few friends I told began to hold me up in prayer. I can truthfully say, I was still not in a state of panic because I knew whatever the results were, everything was going to be alright. I have always been a strong believer that everything in life comes as a lesson or a blessing, and I was ready for either one. On July 17, 2008, seven days before my 61st birthday, my doctor phoned me as I was driving home from work and asked if it was a good time to talk. I told her I was driving but I wanted to hear the results

nurse, who was a cancer survivor.

She told me she would always be there to support me through this journey. Everyone in her office made feel that I was not alone and everything was going to be just fine.

I made it home and fell to my knees and did not ask God “why me,” but instead asked Him to give me the strength I needed to get through this situation. I heard Him say, “I will take you through it”; that was good enough for me.

From that moment on I refused to let my faith to be shaken. Besides, God had healed my body in January 1973 when I was stricken with a stroke at the age of 25. I was paralyzed on the entire right side of my body and was unable to talk or walk, so I knew He would do it again.

I called several of my closet friends and told them about the diagnosis, and they were surprised that I seemed so calm. I was determined to continue my life and daily activities as usual, regardless of the difficult road I had heard about. I looked at this physical challenge as just a ‘bump in the road.’

Between July 17th and August 13th, I had to take test after test in preparation for surgery on August 14th. Three days after surgery, I was determined to uphold my responsibility to meet my students for their first day of class (I am a full-time professor at one college, and an adjunct at three other universities). My colleagues and family tried to persuade me not to go to work, but they did not win that argument. My supervisor drove me to campus and I am glad I met my class. When I explained to them what I had gone through, they could not believe that I was standing there. I used this class session to emphasize the importance of commitment and meeting responsibilities no matter what. I knew no matter how bad I felt, I had to put a smile on my face to show my students that there is life during cancer. They were as much of an inspiration to me as I was to them.

Not only did I have young Angels watching over me on campus, there were some older Angels there as well. I could not have asked for a more caring, loving, and dedicated group of colleagues as those that I work with. Daily prayer, books, cards, gifts, lunches, and smiles were a part of the daily routine when I arrived at work everywww.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Celebrating the

Survivor in You!

day. They were inspired by me and I was grateful to each of them. The only days I missed during the 6 chemo and 32 radiation treatments were the days of chemo. It was a tremendous struggle, but God continued to give me the strength I needed to make it to work. During my chemotherapy treatments, my sister, friends and colleagues took turns coming to sit with me, and at the last treatment, one of my colleagues made a point of bringing me a jar of blowing bubbles that is a tradition for the last chemo treatment — each bubble represents a good wish the patient.

The staff at the diffusion center said they were happy I had completed my treatments as they gave me my certificate of completion, but they hated to see me go because I always lit up the room with my smile and sense of humor. I made it a point to greet all of the other patients with a positive comment on each visit. The nurses told me that it really made their day. My nurse also brought several new patients who were preparing for chemo while I was getting my treatment just so I could talk to them. It seemed that the more energy I gave to others, the more energy God gave back to me. I guess I was being equipped with the insight I needed to help others.

As I reflect back on the night before my first scheduled chemo, September 11, 2008, I cried for half the night. I called everyone I knew for prayer. I was more frighten at that point than I had been through the entire journey. Thoughts that kept going through my head were “I am going to lose all my hair.” I had read all types of literature on what to expect. I had gone to cancer support group meetings and heard all kinds of stories. I decided that I was not going to read another article on cancer, and when I attended the meetings, I was only going to talk about the positive things that were happening in my

20

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

life and keep a smile on my face.

Although I didn’t attend the support meetings every month, when I did, it was fun; all of the women said they admired me and my positive approach to this challenge.

For me, the most devastating moment of having cancer was the lost of my hair over my entire body. I was warned by the doctors and nurses that my hair would begin to fall out shortly after the second round of chemo.

Shortly after the second chemo session I was preparing for church and as I brushed my hair, it came out in my hand. I stopped brushing and patted it down and went on to church.

All through the services, I could feel my scalp tingling.

So I decided I was going to get by head shaved on the following Tuesday. I wanted to prepare my relatives, friends, students, and colleagues what they would see on Wednesday. On Tuesday afternoon, my sister accompanied me to the barber shop. Hesitantly, I sat in the chair and asked my sister to hold my hand. When I heard the clippers, tears dropped as my locks of hair dropped to the floor.

I got up extra early the morning after my head had been shaved to prepare for work — everything had to be just right. I was trying to feel good about myself, but I wasn’t there yet, so I phoned by neighbor and asked her to meet me outside because I needed a hug. When she saw me, she said “you are beautiful”, the only thing I see is that big pretty smile”. I got enough strength from her to make it to work.

My colleagues and students also made me feel like a beauty queen when I went into the office. One of my colleagues even shaved her head to show her love and support for me. I was told that I looked better with no hair and 15 years younger. Did that give me a boost! From that day on I was

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proud of my bald head and did not feel ashamed. The students and colleagues where I did my adjunct teaching were amazed at my stamina to meet every class session. The students in one of my classes surprised one night with a one of those musical cards that sang “I Will Survive”. Whenever I felt I could not take another step, I would play that card and energy

I was told that I looked better with no hair and 15 years younger. Did that give me a boost! came to keep me going. One of the classes I had was a two hour drive away from my home. The class dates always fell two days after my chemo session. The third day after chemo was always my worst day.

I can recall class sessions when it took great effort to talk or lift my hand. I often asked myself, how did I manage to teach for four hours.

Then I realized, I didn’t do it, God did it! My sister would drive me to those classes as I curled up in the back seat to rest. On the way back from one of the trips, I told my sister I wanted to have dinner. I was really feeling as if I was about to take my last breathe, but didn’t tell her. When the server brought the food, I could hardly bear to lift my fork to eat and suddenly lost my appetite. I was feeling awful and told my sister I was going to drive myself home. As I got into my car, the most amazing thing happened. I had started the car and my sister said “there is someone at your window”. There stood a lady I had never seen before in my life. I cracked my window and she said “I just wanted to give you this”, and she walked away. I told her thank

you and opened note. It read: God wants you to know that there is life in your body and your testimony is needed! You shall live and not Die”.

I was convinced that God is omnipresent. I needed Him THEN, and He dispatched an Angel. He was preparing me to give this testimony and encouragement to those of you who are reading this story.

I cannot end this testimony without giving tribute to my neighbors.

I am single and I live alone, and had just moved into the neighborhood when I was diagnosed.

Although my relatives live only several miles away, my neighbors took over. Food, flowers, books, calls, cards, gifts, money, you name it, it was there.

The picture you are looking at in this story is one that was taken at the “2008 Surviving the Holidays Fashion Show.” I had just left my fourth chemo treatment when I posed and modeled for the show.

God allowed my light to shine that night. That is why I cling to the scripture that “I can do all things through Christ…” if you just ask for strength.

Whether you are a cancer patient, a cancer survivor, or you are facing another type of challenge in your life, please share this story and poem with them. I hope you and them will be empowered, inspired, encouraged, and strengthen by my story and this poem.

There Is A Reason For every pain that you must bear, For every burden, every care, There is a reason.

For every grief that bows the head, For every teardrop that is shed There is a reason.

For every hurt, for every plight, For every lonely pain-racked night, There is a reason.

But if we trust in God as we should, It will all work out for our good.

He Knows The Reason –Author Unknown

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

21

It Takes a Village to Raise a Child with

TYPE 1 DIABETES‌

by Beth McCrary

photos by Clark Berry Photography

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

A

lissa Myer’s grandparents recognized all of the classic symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes. Constant thirst, frequent urination and lethargy were the exact same symptoms they saw in her father Kevin at age 3 more than 30 years ago. Even though Alissa’s mom April was in denial, Shirley and Jimmy Myers knew that diabetes was making its presence known in their family once again.

Another diagnosis of T1D in their family was a hard reality for the Myers family to grasp. Alissa’s father Kevin tragically passed away in 2004 due to complications from living with Type 1 diabetes. He was 32 years old and left behind a young wife with two small daughters. Alissa was just two years old and her sister Alaya was eight.

eat too much sugar. An unknown trigger along with a genetic predisposition had caused her autoimmune system to attack itself thus destroying insulin producing beta cells. Alissa’s pancreas would no longer be able to produce its own insulin to break down the carbohydrates in foods to fuel her body.

To ease everyone’s mind, April Myers made an appointment at The Pediatric Clinic in Orangeburg for March 3, 2009. She will never forget that life-changing day. Alissa’s blood sugar was so elevated that it wouldn’t register on the glucometer. Normal blood sugar range is between 80-120 and the meter only registers up to 599. The longest 45 minute drive of their life ensued as they headed to Palmetto Health Childrens Hospital in Columbia.

April Myers now knows that awareness is the key to understanding diabetes and correcting all the myths and misconceptions. “Growing up, I didn’t realize the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. My late husband started educating me on diabetes as we dated, and I soon realized the seriousness.” Most people don’t realize that a day in the life of living with T1D is challenging.

For Alissa, it includes insulin pump therapy, on-going visits to the nurse’s office while in school, regular appointments with a Pediatric Endocrinologist, 6-8 blood sugar checks daily by poking her finger, and carb counting to determine insulin dosage. It also means taking into account the many other factors that can affect blood sugar such as activity level, sickness, anxiety, excitement, growth spurts, and hormonal changes.

‘Most people see this and forget the serious and life threatening complications that go hand in hand with T1D.’

Upon arrival at PHCH, April and Alissa immediately began receiving diabetic education on how to administer life-saving insulin. They already knew what many newly diagnosed families don’t. They knew that T1D is an autoimmune disease that strikes suddenly with little or no warning. If left untreated it can be fatal. They knew that until a cure is found, Alissa would be dependent on insulin through multiple daily injections or an insulin pump to survive.

They also knew that many common beliefs about Type 1 Diabetes were untrue. Alissa’s diagnosis with T1D had not been caused by a poor diet or lack of exercise, nor had she been allowed to

The Myers family is committed to staying strong and helping JDRF Palmetto Chapter raise funds for research that will one day cure Alissa and others living with diabetes. Their walk team for Alissa raised close to $5000 with support from family, friends, and local businesses for the annual JDRF Walk To Cure Diabetes. April www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Alissa with her mother April views the support from family, JDRF staffers and volunteers and her community as the village that is helping her raise her daughters.

“I love the saying it takes a village to raise a child. I’ve felt that way since Alissa was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. We have met so many wonderful people while on this journey with T1D. My family and friends have been there for us throughout every step. I don’t know what I would do without them. Scott Fairey has made our family whole again. The girls and I love him and appreciate everything he does for our family. My mom and dad, Connie and Allen Etheridge have always been there for us along with Kevin’s parents, Shirley and Jimmy Myers.”

Until a cure is found, the Myers are grateful that Alissa has the tools and technology to treat and manage Type 1 Diabetes. She began using an Animas One Touch Ping Insulin pump when she was 8 years old. Alissa says, “Type 1 Diabetes takes a lot of responsibility because you have to check your blood sugar, check the carbs in whatever you eat, key in the amount of carbs into the pump, and check your blood

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

sugar again 2 hours after eating. My pump is my little pancreas because it gives me insulin to survive.”

‘I love the saying it takes a village to raise a child.

I’ve felt that way since Alissa was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. We have met so many wonderful people while on this journey with T1D. Alissa is currently surviving and thriving in 4th grade at Saxe Gotha Elementary school in Lexington. She is very excited that her school will be hosting a Kid’s Walk To Cure Diabetes on March 6th of this year in her honor. Alissa loves

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the color pink, dancing and her Monster High dolls. She dreams of becoming a Mad Scientist one day.

April Myers wants others to know that even though Alissa is a vibrant and energetic kid, diabetes is ever present. “Most people see this and forget the serious and life threatening complications that go hand in hand with T1D. Without insulin injections she can become very sick and unable to recover. What happens if insulin is no longer available because of unforeseen circumstances? Insulin is not a cure for T1D. I can’t lose my daughter to this disease. We’ve already experienced a great loss in our family because of diabetes.”

To learn more about Type 1 Diabetes and how you can volunteer, visit www.jdrf.org.

Beth McCrary is a freelance writer living in Lexington, SC. She is also the mother of a daughter living with T1D and is a member of the JDRF Palmetto Chapter board of directors.

Health & Wellness

A Walk from Obesity – Great Strides in Weight Loss

by Lexington Medical Center

“I

was always big,” Carol Wunderlich will tell you. “I weighed more than ten pounds when I was born. I was 130 pounds by age 12. And by the time I graduated high school – 200 pounds.”

When she began a job as a restaurant auditor driving all over South Carolina for work, her weight increased even more.

“The type of job made it difficult for me to eat healthy because there was a lot of travel and you were always on the go,” she said.

Her weaknesses were chocolate, ice cream and pastries.

“I used food as a source of entertainment and comfort. It seemed like an easy perk.”

In 2010, at age 52, Wunderlich reached a turning point.

“I had trouble getting out of my car. I had to pull myself out.”

At 5’ 8 1/2”, Wunderlich weighed 329 pounds and wore a size 26 or 28. She wasn’t feeling well. She had sleep apnea. She knew she needed to lose weight. She had tried diet programs before, but they didn’t work for her.

“I came to the realization that it wasn’t going to happen without serious help,” she said.

That’s when she decided to attend a weight loss seminar hosted by the

South Carolina Obesity Surgery Center at Riverside Surgical Group, a Lexington Medical Center physician practice, and had a consultation with Dr. Marc Antonetti.

normal. She had done so well, Dr. Antonetti advised her not to lose any more weight.

Before weight loss: 329 pounds

“My BMI was 49,” she said.

BMI, which stands for Body Mass Index, measures body fat based on height and weight. A person is considered normal weight if his or her BMI is less than 25, overweight with a BMI between 25 and 29.9, and obese with a BMI of 30 or greater. Obesity is defined as weighing at least 20% more than the maximum healthy weight for a person’s height.

Wunderlich had bariatric surgery at Lexington Medical Center in December, 2010. The surgery was the beginning of a nutrition and fitness plan that would change her life.

Her new daily diet included a menu of egg whites, Greek yogurt, bananas, chili, deli meat, fish, salad, unsweet tea and bottled water.

She also drank a 16oz protein beverage each day.

One year after her surgery, Wunderlich weighed 157 pounds and was wearing a size 8. Her BMI was

After weight loss: 157 pounds

tion and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Foundation.

‘I feel a lot more confident around other people.’

“I feel a lot more confident around other people,” she said. “People treat you differently when you’re small.”

Wunderlich is so passionate about her experience with weight loss, she’s now working to inspire others.

She’s organizing a walking group to take part in the Walk from Obesity, hosted by Lexington Medical Center and the South Carolina Obesity Surgery Center, on May 4, 2013 at Saluda Shoals Park.

The goal of the one-mile Walk from Obesity is to raise awareness and funds toward furthering prevention, education, research and advocacy for those who suffer from obesity. Funds raised will benefit the Obesity Action Coali-

“I want to spread the word to others that it’s not just about diet – it’s also about exercise,” Wunderlich said. “You have to get up and start moving while you’re losing weight – work the weight off.”

Wunderlich’s post-surgery exercise regimen incorporates walking up to 4 miles several times a week and 50 squats each day. “I can’t believe how thin my thighs are,” she said.

And these days, while traveling for work, she keeps an ice chest in the trunk of her car with healthy snacks including fruit and lean lunch meat.

“You have to plan ahead,” she said.

“And if you don’t change your ways and begin eating healthy, the weight will come back on.”

There’s no easy answer, but she makes great strides every day.

Walk From Obesity (Saturday, May 4, 2013, Saluda Shoals Park, 5605 Bush River Road, Columbia) Hosted by Lexington Medical Center and the South Carolina Obesity Surgery Center.

Benefitting the Obesity Action Coalition and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Foundation. For more information and to register, visit www.walkfromobesity.com or call Pam Dye at (803) 936-7600, Ext. 4323.

Registration: 8:00 a.m.

One-mile Walk: 9:00 a.m.

Cost: $25 on-line registration

$35 on-site registration

Children 12 and under are free www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Occupational Therapy

Physical Therapy

Our goal is to achieve mental and physical wellness through our combination of Alternative therapies with traditional Occupational Therapy.

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: • Occupational Therapy • Physical Therapy

Pediatric Therapy

Aquatic Therapy

• Sports Physical Therapy • Reiki Therapy/Meditation • 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

Main Location:

803.359.1551 163 Charter Oak Road Lexington, SC 29072

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Reiki Treatment

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Health & Wellness

EXTREME LIFESTYLE MAKEOVER with Lila D. and Vital Energy Occupational Therapy and Wellness Center

by Suzy Shay

W

elcome to Vital Energy Occupational Therapy and Wellness Center where we treat the person as a whole. We would like to introduce you to Lila D. Lecy, a 43 year old female flight attendant who went from a productive career to being confined to a wheelchair with a diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease in May 2012.

Although it took 3 years and 27 doctors (that’s right, 27 different doctors), her diagnosis was finally confirmed.

With Parkinson’s, Lila’s brain stopped manufacturing a neurotransmitter called dopamine. Generally, heredity plays a vital role in the diagnosis of Parkinson’s. This was not the case for Lila. It is believed that trauma or toxins contributed to her malfunction, both of which she has experienced.

Lila D. was raised in America’s Heartland, Iowa, where pesticides and herbicides are used on the crops of farmers. Having worked in this environment, Lila D. was exposed to these toxins as a teenager.

As a flight attendant, it was during one of her flights that she sustained an impact injury to her head. This injury resulted in the necessity of spinal surgery to fuse vertebrae together.

Although the surgery was successful, Lila D. was unable to continue her duties as a flight attendant and therefore decided to return to school to pursue a business degree as well as a minor in Chinese. These decisions lead her to study abroad in China. Having received the appropriate vaccines to travel, she was exposed to further toxins.

Lila D.’s symptoms began to manifest themselves at the age of 38. First, there was the jerky handwriting, followed by the occasional trips and miss steps. Within a period of six months, Lila D. was home bound and required the use of a motorized wheelchair.

In the midst of everything Lila D. was going through, she stayed positive throughout her

ordeal. Lila D. began to focus on doing whatever she could to try and trigger recovery and that is when she found Vital Energy in Lexington, SC. Lila D. came to Vital Energy and began an aquatic therapy regime under her Physical/ Occupational Therapist where her use of the Hydroworx warm water pool (with underwater treadmill) allowed her to perform beneficial therapeutic exercise in a weightless environment due to the buoyancy of the water.

With the help on a hydraulic chair lift, Lila D. was able to get in and out of the pool without falling and further injuring herself. The buoyancy of the water, along with its warmth, Vital Energy’s Therapist was able to manipulate joints and muscles that had become fiercely rigid. Over time, this manipulation led to the eventual recovery of Lila D. to an independent fully functioning way of life. Lila D. also received muscle energy treatment, myofascial release and craniosacral therapy which helped her to increase flexibility and decrease rigidity in muscles.

In the words of Lila D., “The road back to a quality of life my family and I can live with has been challenging. Thank you Vital Energy for my extreme makeover. As for you Ms. Hima, thank you for the time, effort and determination that allowed you to create Vital Energy.”

With the knowledge, kindness and courteous help of the therapists at Vital Energy, Lila D. Lecy is one of Vital Energy’s Extreme Makeover success stories.

(pictured: Lila D. with Hima Dalal of Vital Energy Occupational Therapy and Wellness Center) www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Health & Wellness

For you and your child’s teeth: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!

by Rob Nieders, D.M.D.

I

’m not trying to gross you out folks, but we have to talk about bugs for a minute: Bacteria! It is a fact of life that everyone has literally thousands of bacteria in their mouth, and it is these bugs that can cause cavities in your teeth. Anytime you eat or drink anything that is not water the bugs process some of the sugars in that food and create an acidic environment next to your teeth. Over time that acid eats away the hard surface of your teeth creating a hole where more bugs can hide out! But don’t worry: Cavities can be prevented in you and your children! photo by Clark Berry Photography

Rob Nieders, D.M.D. Everyone knows that you are supposed to brush and floss, but have you ever thought about why? You are literally knocking the bugs off of your teeth! We ask that you brush your child’s teeth at least twice a day with a soft bristled tooth brush. You want to make sure that those tooth brush bristles touch every part of every tooth as well as a little bit along the gums next to their teeth. When your child begins to give you a semi-reliable spit, it’s time to introduce a smear of fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that toughens teeth up so it’s harder for the cavity bugs to eat them away.

Whenever two teeth touch it is time to start flossing once a day.

When you floss you’re not just getting food out from between the

teeth, you are also cleaning off bacteria below the gums. As a parent I know you have to pick your battles, so if brushing means “wrestle-mania” time at your house focus on that first and worry about introducing floss later on when all the molars in the back are in. Ask your dentist for some tips about brushing your child’s teeth; we know plenty of tricks to help you get in there!

What most people don’t realize is that this process that causes cavities is a transmissible disease. That means it can be passed from one person to another like strep throat.

Now you can’t blame all your problems on your mom, but most of the bugs in your mouth will match those in your mom’s or your primary caregiver’s mouth. The best thing you can do to prevent passing the bugs that cause cavities on

We ask that you brush your child’s teeth at least twice a day with a soft bristled tooth brush.

to your child is to take care of your mouth and visit your dentist regularly. You also want to avoid any habits that aid this bug swap like sharing silverware or straws with your child or cleaning that pacifier that fell on the floor by putting it in your mouth!

Without a doubt, the biggest problem we’re dealing with today in pediatric dentistry is the frequency that kids are drinking sugar sweetened beverages and other non-water liquids in between meals. Even milk causes cavities if you sip it all day. Your mouth needs some down time from the acid attack that happens at every meal, so constant snacking can be harmful as well. When you aren’t eating or drinking your saliva buffers or lowers the acid levels in your mouth and works to repair some of the damage leading to cavities. It is especially harmful to put a child to bed with a bottle or cup with anything besides

water in it. In between meals and especially at night time your child should drink water, water, water!

Remember your dentist can help!

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that you establish a “dental home” for your child no later than age 1. Gone are the days of the scary dental office; on your child’s first visit we will examine them while they are sitting on your lap and we strive to make it a fun experience. We love to catch things early and prevent problems from occurring in the first place, keeping your child cavity free!

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Pets photo by Clark Berry Photography

THE ASHBY CHRONICLE:

Pet Appeal

by Ashby Jones

Ashby Jones

Y

ou Lexington Ladies are really into your pets. Me, I do not like animals inside the house. Or inside the yard.

Or in the neighboring yard. I have inherited this indifference towards animals from my Dad who grew up on a farm and had so many dogs throughout his childhood that he cannot recall them all. In fairness, it may be because he named them all Dixie, as if they were interchangeable.

Y’all talk about your pets like they are kin. They have feelings. They have their favorite foods and blankets and you know when they are mad at you. Like, my grandmother could tell her schnauzer Missy was enraged because she would come home from work to find the house covered in teeny tiny shreds of toilet paper. Missy was telling my grandmother “I would prefer that you not work such long hours.”

My friend Melinda is a cat “person.”

This is different than a cat “lady” because you have to accumulate over twelve cats to become a cat “lady.” (Also, you have to abandon your own hygiene and allow trash bags to pile up in the garage). Melinda can tell you the personality of any cat, whether they belong to her or not. We had a few strays in our neighborhood once and Melinda deemed one of those strays “pretty cool.” (I think she was feeding the “pretty cool” one).

If a pet unexpectedly passes on or even if the pet passes after many, many years, this is extremely painful to pet people. I remember when my Mom’s best friend called to report that her elderly shitzu Lil’ Bit had died. I could hear Judy sobbing on the phone. Mom was nod-

ding her head, offering words of encouragement, agreeing that Lil’ Bit had been such a good dog, such a loyal dog, yes, such a loving dog.

I was impressed with my Mom’s sensitivity. My impatient mother silently listened to half an hour of dog-grief.

Y’all talk about your pets like they are kin. They have feelings.

When Judy took a long breath in between sobs, I heard Mom say pointedly: “Now Judy, I have known you for fifteen years. I swear you have just cried more about this dog than you cried after you divorced either of your first two husbands.”

It’s not that the non-pet people are completely without empathy. It is just that y’all sometimes make crazy decisions when it comes to your pets. Like when one of Melinda’s

cats was passing away. I cannot remember the diagnosis, but I recall this cat had a chronic illness requiring multiple prescriptions, sleeping on a heating pad, and a cat catheter. When another one of her cats (Monet) was near the end, Melinda invited some kind of cat whisperer lady into her home to help peacefully guide Monet to her next life.

After the cat whisperer was finished, it was necessary to provide Monet with a proper burial. (My friend Rob says a proper cat burial requires only a shovel and a dumpster). If you are lucky enough to befriend my Melinda, please offer her a glass of wine and ask her about the Cat Crematorium. This was where she tearfully took Monet for cremation. Before the cremation, the owner somberly suggested Melinda purchase one of their tasteful and affordable Cat Cremain Canisters. One pricey option was having Monet’s paw print embedded into bronze.

Having some sense of reason left, Melinda refrained from purchasing a paw-printed bronze urn and turned over her beloved kitty to the man behind the counter, a concierge of sorts. Mr. Cat Concierge

was quiet as Melinda said her final mournful goodbyes. Then, with Monet bundled in his arms, he solemnly withdrew from the reception counter and disappeared into another room. Melinda turned to take a seat in the parlor when— WHOOSH—she heard a rush of flames engulfing beloved Monet!

Another cat in my neighborhood did not have such a proper burial.

Brian agreed to babysit Button while her parents and siblings were out of town on vacation. (See, I am starting to understand how y’all are the pet’s parents and your homo sapien offspring are your pet’s siblings). I am not sure, but I think Brian was asked to change Button’s water bowl and paint her toenails or something.

Well, one afternoon Brian gets a call from our Homeowners Association President’s husband – the neighborhood First Gentleman.

Someone’s cat met an unfortunate fate on one of our neighborhood streets. Since dead animals in common areas are obviously the HOA President’s problem and the President was out “in the field” responding to earnest complaints about pool hours or misbehaving toddlers, the cat was delivered www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Pets to the First Gentleman instead.

The First Gentleman knew Brian was supposed to be watching Button all week. Brian received the call no pet sitter wants to receive: he had to identify the body.

It was Button.

Brian called Button’s parents, who were on vacation with Button’s two brothers. Button’s parents elected not to tell Button’s siblings about his passing, as it would ruin their vacation.

Brian then set about digging a hole in Button’s parents’ backyard.

You have to dig a pretty big hole to bury a cat, so it took him a while.

While Brian was digging this hole and berating himself for his poor pet sitting, he felt like someone was watching him! Brian looked over his shoulder a couple of times. It was weird. Even though this was his neighbor’s yard, it was now a pet cemetery too, and that made it spooky.

Brian shoveled a little bit more, and when he stopped to take a rest he felt a hairy tail rub up against him. It was Button. Button was alive!

We do not know whose cat is buried in my neighbor’s yard. Maybe it is that “pretty cool” stray. What we know is Button is still around and has lived long enough to gain a baby sister (the homo sapien kind).

What do Dixie(s), Missy, Lil’Bit, Monet and Button have in common? They all enjoyed the unconditional, loyal and forever love of their parents. And, they have interesting names. My law partner’s daughter needed a puppy a few months ago. I’m not sure she had too many detailed requests, but Bryce did want the puppy to have a Biblical name.

So when the Boykin spaniel litter was born and the family arrived, they knew to take special care in selecting this new member of their family. (Bearing a Biblical name comes with some responsibility, after all). Bryce and her siblings were able to select this one outrageously adorable chocolate colored baby out of the litter. When asked about the puppy, the breeder informed the Kinard family that this adopted sibling had already been named.

His name is Jonah.

Bryce and Jonah

Ellie and Jonah 32

Harrison and Jonah

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Pets

Traveling with Pets

by Tim Loonam, DVM

A

s spring and summer approach, our thoughts turn to warm weather and vacation time. For many, vacation plans include traveling with their pets. In the past 3 years, the Travel Industry Association reports nearly 30 million Americans traveled with a pet on a trip over 50 miles. Here are some things to consider when planning travel and a vacation with your pet. (See Checklist for Pet Travel)

Pet Travel Checklist Check with vet • Exam and proof of vaccines?

• Medical Records?

• Health Certificate within 10 days of travel?

• Flea, tick, heartworm prevention?

• Microchip?

• Medications?

• Sedation? Motion sickness?

• Emergency phone numbers?

Check with airline on regulations/restrictions and pet exercise areas • Plan time and route for exercise and potty breaks • Pet friendly accomodations and restaurants?

• Current photo of pet? Collar with tags?

• Interstate pet travel restrictions if traveling by car?

• Pet Carrier? Crate? Leashes and seat belt attachments?

• Cleaning supplies for ‘accidents’?

• Pet food. Water. Bowls?

RESOURCES —U.S. State and Territory Animal Import Regulations (www.aphis.usda.gov) —American Veterinary Medical Association, Info on traveling with pets (www.avma.og) —International Air Transport Association, Info on air transport of animals included at ‘Traveler’s Pet Corner’ section (www.iata.org) —Pets On The Go, Listing of pet friendly accommodation and restaurants, and other news (www.petsonthego.com)

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If you plan to travel by air, contact your airline well in advance to determine specific regulations, including small pets traveling in the cabin. Besides proof of vaccination, many airlines will require a health certificate no more than 10 days old prior to flying. Bewre, some airlines suspend pet travel by air during the hottest summer months, so check ahead! Plan nonstop flights when possible and contact airports for the location of pet friendly exercise areas, especially for long layovers.

Car travel may require even more preparation especially if traveling across state lines. Check with the U.S State and Territory Animal import Regulations (See Resources) for the most recent requirements.

Plan potty and exercise breaks during your trip; most highway rest areas have designated areas for your pet (be polite, keep your dog leashed, and always scoop the poop!) In the car, cats are best confined in a cage or crate (don’t forget cleaning supplies for ‘accidents’!)

Dogs may be crated or fastened comfortably with seat belt attachments. These will keep your pet safe in the event of sudden stops or swerves, as well as protecting the you from distractions or the pets getting underfoot while driving.

If your pet has never traveled long distances by car, I recommend taking some short practice trips to acclimate them and to see how they respond. If pets are anxious or vocal and the owner is unable to

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acclimate them with practice trips, talk to your veterinarian about appropriate anxiety medication and sedation (despite the wives’ tale, Benadryl is usually not enough)!

Another problem may be motion sickness and again, if acclimation with progressively longer practice trips does not improve your pet, talk to your vet about the once a day motion sickness pill, Cerenia.

even along your travel route. For pets with chronic illnesses ensure you have enough medication and refill authorizations, and consider asking your vet to allow you to carry a copy of your pet’s medical records. And of course, bring along adequate food for your pet as the last thing you need is your pet to vomit or get diarrhea from a sudden diet change.

Besides having a current examination from your veterinarian prior to travel and documentation of vaccination, make sure your pet is current on flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. Make sure you have enough if your trip is longer than 30 days. I also strongly recommend having your pet microchipped and carrying a current photo of your pet in case they get lost. Bring along your veterinarian’s phone number and consider doing a little research on the internet to find the veterinary emergency clinic nearest your destination and

There are many things to consider when traveling with your pet, and as your pet’s health advocate, don’t forget to include a discussion with your veterinarian as you plan for your vacation.

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35

Professional

Greater Lexington Chamber Honors Community Servants, Businessmen

by Sondra Gettys

T

he Greater Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center honored three Lexington businessmen and one business Tuesday, recognizing them for their community service as well as their economic innovation and leadership.

Lee Pitcovich, president of Event Management, LLC, and the founder of the Lexington Young Professionals, was recognized as the Young Professional of the Year.

Carpet One Floor & Home, a 27year-old company that has contributed flooring to various Lexington organizations and survived difficult times on Main Street, was named Business of the Year. Royce Lehman, president of North Lake Construction Co., was named Small Business Person of the Year for his 26 years in business and his donations of land and labor to Lexington Interfaith Community Services. A final award, named for the late Mike Till, was given to Baxter Donaldson with First Community Bank. Donaldson, a commercial banker, has held leadership roles in the Rotary Club of Lexington, the Greater Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, Leadership Lexington County, and the Indian Waters

Council of the Boy Scouts. Till was active in many civic and business organizations; the award bearing his name is given to someone who exemplifies his humility, friendliness, perseverance, and dedication to the Lexington community.

“We have so many hard-working Chamber members that it was difficult for our committee to choose whom to recognize,” said Randy Halfacre, president/CEO of the GLC&VC. “The folks we’ve honored this year have not only demonstrated success in the business world, but they’ve exhibited tremendous generosity. There’s no doubt the Lexington community is better because of them.”

Pitcovich, Lehman, Donaldson, and Carpet One were honored at the Chamber Awards Celebration, a sold-out dinner event at the Lexington Municipal Complex.

Nominees for Young Professional of the Year were Jeremy Addy, CraigReagin Clothiers; Matt Baker, Baker Collision Express; Jewitte Dooley, Davis Frawley Law; J.R. Fennell, Lexington County Museum; Steven Morris, Xenex Merchant Services; Tripp Newsome, Newsome & Co.; Brittany Owen, Elliott Davis, LLC; and Wattie Wharton, Russell & Jeffcoat.

Nominees for Business Person of the Year were Gerry Brossard, FASTSIGNS; Hima Dalal, Vital Energy; Gary Deese, Crescent Financial; Wendell Furtick, Saluda Hill Landscapes; Veta Hollaway, former owner of Birds by Veta; BJ Langley, McDonald’s (378 and Corley Mill Road and I-26 and 378); and Brian Peed, Floor Boys.

Nominees for Business of the Year were Comporium, First Community Bank, Jumper Carter Sease

Architects, Lexington County Chronicle and Dispatch-News, Newsome & Co., Saluda Hill Landscapes, and Sounds & Images.

Nominees, who must be members of the Greater Lexington Chamber, were nominated by their fellow members.

“We have close to 1,000 members, and this awards celebration reflects our growth and diversity,” Halfacre said. “We’re excited to recognize our members who do so much for Lexington without asking for anything in return.”

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 approximately 950 businesses and more than 30,000 employees.

(left to right) Baxter Donaldson – 2013 Mike Till Award; Clyde Smith, Carpet One – 2013 Business of the Year; Lee Pitcovich – 2013 Young Professional of the Year; Royce Lehman – 2013 Small Business Person of the Year

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I

s your glass half full or half empty? We have heard grumblings about the new tax laws and how they affect individual taxpayers and businesses. The capital gains tax benefit has decreased, the “income in receipt of a decedent” (IRD) tax has the ability to be double taxed, ONLY IF YOU DON’T PREPARE YOURSELF. Many of the new tax laws are avoidable as long as you plan in advance. Is your inheritance tomorrow worth a few hours of your time today?

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Education-Related Tax Deductions ATRA extended through 2017 and retroactive for 2012, two popular and widely used education related tax benefits that were set to expire in 2011.

Limited Non-Business Energy Property Credits Non-Business energy credits were set to expire in 2011, however, they were extended (retroactive to 2012) through 2013. This credit generally equals 10% of what a homeowner spends on eligible energy saving improvements, up to a maximum credit of $500.

Mortgage Insurance Deductible as Qualified Interest ATRA extended, through 2013 (retroactive to 2012) allowing taxpayers to deduct mortgage insurance premiums as qualified residence interest.

Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) Patch made Permanent The AMT “patch” was made permanent by

ATRA; however, exemption amounts for 2012 and beyond are higher than in years past and are now indexed for inflation.

Transportation “Fringe Benefits” Parity for transportation fringe benefits provided by employers for their employees have been reinstated and made retroactive to 2012.

As such, the monthly limit for qualified parking is $240 and the benefit for transportation in a commuter highway vehicle or transit pass is $245 for tax year 2012.

State and Local Sales Tax Retroactive to 2012, ATRA extended (through 2013) the tax provision that allows taxpayers who itemize deductions the option to deduct local general sales and use taxes instead of state and local income taxes.

If you have any questions regarding these benefits, do not hesitate to give us a call. The bottom line is to avoid a portion of the tax increases we need to utilize all maximum credits, and make some retirement maneuvers before the IRD kicks in. You can’t afford the time not to do so.

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

37

owned and operated by Tego Tactical, LLC

CONCEALED WEAPON PERMIT (CWP) CLASSES Men and Women (Co-Ed Classes) Specializing in “All Women’s Classes”

Visit www.tegotactical.com for schedules and sign-up OR Stop by Defender Firearms Training located at Red Bank Shopping Center 1070-G South Lake Dr., Lexington, SC 29073 803-358-0305 | tegotactical@gmail.com

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Professional

A New Mission: Tommy and E’lane Tipton

by Tommy Tipton

I

n the spring of 1988 I found myself planning for the next great adventure of my life. I was in the process of selling a house I had just built and packing for the trip to seminary. I had been accepted to the School of Theology at the University of the South (Sewanee) on top of the Cumberland Plateau in Tennessee. “Anxious” would have been an understatement as I wondered and prayed about what the next three years of my life was going to be like.

Following seminary, graduating with a Masters Degree in Divinity, I had a wonderful career as an Episcopal Priest serving two parishes in the Lowcountry of SC, then moving to Columbia to become the Canon to the Ordinary (Bishop’s assistant) at Trinity Cathedral downtown. In the fall of 2011 I realized I could retire in April of 2012 so I began the process to make that happen.

I preface this article with the brief history above to set the stage for what was to come next.

My entire life has been spent shooting guns, both in a prior career before seminary, and as an avid sportsman and hunter. I have hunted and traveled, literally, all over the world, from sitting in a duck blind in South Argentina to glassing for brown bear in British Columbia. I have owned about every gun that has ever been made, which only added to my love for shooting.

When I decided to retire from the Episcopal Church, I began to think about what was next, and if

a third career was in the making.

I befriended a man in Lexington named Ray Hill who owns Defender Shooting Sports while looking for an indoor range in which to shoot in order to keep my skills sharp, and, as they say, the rest is history.

Ray was looking for someone to help out with his Concealed Weapon Permit Classes and I suppose I showed up at the right place at the right time. Being a retired priest I might even think that something else was playing a part in all this, but this is an article about shooting and CWP classes and NOT about theology. I got myself certified to teach the class and found myself involved with two of the things I love most – teaching and guns.

Quickly I found my niche and to my surprise it was teaching women to shoot and to get their Concealed Weapon Permit. My wife says the reason I am successful teaching women is all the years spent in parish ministry, which I suppose is true.

I will admit that I take a somewhat “pastoral” approach when it comes to teaching anyone, especially women, about guns and shooting.

I happen to believe that it is a tremendous responsibility we take on when we decide we are going to go around wearing a gun. I believe we should do it with humility and not with pride or arrogance. We pray that we never, ever have to use a gun to defend ourselves, but if we do, we should absolutely know how to do it, if in fact, our life depends on it!

I believe that we all, and again especially women, should be prepared to protect ourselves in 2013.

During my lifetime I have seen too many women taken advantage of,

from a simple assault and robbery, to rape and murder, when if only they had the means and the training to defend themselves, would have made the difference between winning and losing. I do not want women losing in a battle like that if I can help it! I am committed to using every skill I possess to teach and train women to defend themselves, who come to Defender Firearms Training, to the best of my ability.

Could this be a new calling for this retired priest? I think one could safely say, “YES.”

photo by Robert Patrick Image Design

Quickly I found my niche and to my surprise it was teaching women to shoot and to get their Concealed Weapon Permit. www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

39

Professional

Home Makeovers

SIDING MAKEOVER Job Details: Installation of vinyl siding with new vinyl railings on top and bottom porches.

Overall time: 3 weeks

by Jamie Lober

W

ith warm months ahead of us, it is now a good time to consider a home makeover. It is natural to feel anxious before embracing a new project but when you are open with an expert about what you are seeking to do, you will never be in over your head.

You can do it on a large or small scale and can obtain beautiful, breathtaking results whether you are a novice and it is your first project or you have a more advanced skill set and can handle projects that demand more time and energy. You can flip a house or simply update your current home depending on your goal. There is a change you can make that will make a big difference regardless if your budget is tight and thrifty or unlimited. Depending on where you spend the most time, you may want to revamp either inside or outside of your home.

If you are an investor looking to flip a home, you may want to consider replacement windows, new entry doors, painting walls and cabinets, granite countertops or a gas log fireplace for a special added touch. Paint on the interior and exterior and deep cleaning are the easiest ways to spruce things up. If you are looking to do a little more, you can refinish hardwood floors or put in vinyl flooring as well as resurface the countertop in approximately six weeks-time. If you have never picked up a paintbrush and are not a pro at coordinating colors, there is no reason to worry because we have experienced professionals in our community who will serve as great resources to you.

People tend to spend a lot of time in the kitchen, so it may be worth refinishing cabinets and adding new to match with granite countertops and back splash. It will make you feel good when guests take notice of your home improvements. If it is within your budget, you may expand into the family room and add a new ceiling and new floor. For the person

40

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

who is focused on the exterior, new siding can not only aesthetically enhance your home but can be cost-effective when it comes to utility bills. One popular trend is clay color vertical vinyl siding. Often you may be able to bring samples home and see what things look like around your house before making a final commitment. People also like vinyl siding with new vinyl railings on the porch.

Additions to your outdoors can offer a private space for family gatherings or a new spot for reading and relaxing. You may choose to construct a new screen porch with metal cover or even extend your existing deck and include new stairs to the ground. You may be surprised this can be done in approximately two weeks. If you have three weeks on your hands, you may opt to do decking, vinyl lattice, lack aluminum railing spindles and rubber landscaping mulch in order to stay maintenancefree. Flag stone pavers are quite popular as well as deck enhancements such as screens, soffit ceilings and spiral steps.

People pay attention to your deck whether you realize it or not. The tiki torch can make you really feel like you are on vacation in your own backyard. Equally comforting and rejuvenating is a sunroom with lots of glass including glass block accenting. There is something you can do no matter what your personal preference may be. You can reach out to Home Maintenance Services for more information about possible options as well as ideas as to what would best suit your interior and exterior home care needs.

Real Women

Before DECK MAKEOVERS Job Details: Deck with radial pickets, Fiberon composite decking, sunroom including glass block accenting, and custom Tiki Torch.

Job Details: Constructed new screen porch with metal cover and extended existing deck to corner of house and include new stairs to ground.

Before

Professional

PATIO MAKEOVER Job Details: Installation of flag stone pavers, constructed new wall, soffit ceiling, replaced rotten posts for upper deck, provided drainage lines, and retaining wall.

Before

Overall time: 3 weeks

HOUSE FLIP Job Details: Installation of replacement windows, new entry doors, cellotex ceiling tiles, painting walls and cabinets, granite countertops, solar tube lighting, gas log fireplace, and a facelift for an out building.

Overall time: 2 months

Before

Before

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

41

ATTENTION READERS! We are looking for the “Lexington Woman of the Year” To be considered, all entries must be received by April 1, 2013 The winner will be featured on the cover of our fall issue. Email us at info@lexingtonwomanonline.com or message us on Facebook with your entry of 500 words or less about who you think is deserving of this title and why.

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BIGGE & BETTER R!

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42

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

(803) 359-1222 • 403 E Main Street, Lexington

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Business & Web Directory

C C

THE

HAPMAN OMPANY

Accountant Newsome & Company, PC.......................... 37

Vital Energy Rehab Center.......................... 26 www.vitalenergytherapy.com

Apparel Dawn’s Bridal Boutique............................... 14

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

LA Boutique.................................................. 14 Art and Entertainment Colonial Life Arena................................ 32, 38 www.coloniallifearena.com EdVenture...................................................... 42 www.edventure.org

FINE JEWELERS

Lexington School of Music.......................... 13 www.lexingtonschoolofmusic.com WMHK/89.7................................................... 2 www.wmhk.com

E.D.’s Painting and Decorating.................... 42 Flooring America......................................... 42 www.faflooringcenter.com Home Maintenance Services, LLC............. 42 www.myhmspro.com Trey Mathias Pressure Washing.................. 35 www.tmpwsc.com

Assisted Living Assisting Hands Home Care of the Midlands................................................14 www.assistinghands.com/midlands

Jewelry Dems.............................................................. 17 www.demsjewelers.com

Lutheran Homes of South Carolina........... 28 www.LutheranHomesSC.org

The Chapman Company.............................. 43 www.thechapmancompany.com

Attorney Kinard & Jones.............................................. 33 www.kinardandjones.com

Landscaping Midlands Landscape...................................... 9 www.midlandslandscape.com

Beauty Aloette.............................................................. 7

Orthodontist Whitehead Orthodontics.............................. 5 www.whiteheadortho.com

Children’s Therapy Carolina Behavior & Beyond...................... 32 Dentist Palmetto Smiles............................................ 28 www.palmetto-smiles.com Eye Care Envision Family EyeCare............................. 14 www.envisionfamilyeyecare.com

Specializing in On-Site Repair and Custom Design

Home Services Bouknight Pumps........................................... 3 www.bouknightpumps.biz

Firearms Training Defender Firearms Training....................... 38 www.tegotactical.com Furniture Home Furniture............................................ 35 www.HomeFurnitureSC.com

Pets Grace Pets Animal Hospital........................ 35 www.gracepets.com Photography Clark Berry Photography....................... Inside Front Cover www.clarkberry.com Robert Patrick Image Design...................... 30 www.rpimagedesign.com Restaurants Everyday Gourmet Café and Market......... 35 McDonald’s.................................................... 38 Salon Aqua Nails & Spa.......................................... 17 www.aquanailsandspasc.com

803-996-5530

North Furniture Company............................ 3 www.northfurniture.net

903 North Lake Drive Lexington

Golf Indian River Golf Club.................................. 3

School Northside Christian Academy.................... 17 www.northsidechristianacademy.org

Health Services Bee Healthy Medical Weight Loss.............. 28 www.beehealthyclinics.com

Weddings Mitchell House and Gardens...................... 13 www.mitchellhouseandgardens.com

(look for the black awning)

www.thechapmancompany.com

Lexington Medical Center..... 26, Back Cover www.lexmed.com www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

43

A Personal Note

I

t doesn’t seem like a full month since I sat down to pen a note to you. I have to say there are so many things that have happened this month that I could tell you about, but I find myself wanting to talk about my children.

Can you imagine that? I always laugh when people say “Four? You have four children?” They look at me like I am an alien. I dare not share with them that I wanted more. My body just didn’t do pregnancy well, which is kind of funny considering it certainly had no trouble getting pregnant. It was the morning-afternoon- and evening sickness, and all the third trimester complications that were the problem.

I guess that is why I am so fully aware of what a gift each one is to our family. I always thought pregnant women go home from the hospital 24 to 48 hours after giving birth with a healthy bundle of sweetness wrapped in a pink or blue blanket. That just isn’t always true. When Trey was born, he was five weeks early. It was 36 hours of hard labor and sheer exhaustion. He had a severe cephalhematoma and I was told there was a possibility he had brain damage. They believed his skull was cracked. Our hospital stay was 7 full days. He, of course, is completely healthy and currently Valedictorian of the Junior Class at WKHS. Needless to say, there was no brain damage. He broke his left clavicle coming through the birth canal and I had to leave him at the hospital the second night. It was snowing as we drove home. My eyes are watering as I write this because I tried to explain to my husband why I was crying so hard. “Honey, he is safe. He is in a hospital with the best trained staff to take care of him.” I know now he was just being strong for me. I wanted him to understand that for almost eight months Trey was a part of me and now I had to entrust him with strangers because I was well enough to go home, but he was not. The next day my pediatrician moved him to the children’s ward and gave me a bed in the room with him so I could nurse and bond with my new baby. The next time I left that hospital, it was with my son in my arms.

Abby was different. She was right on time. She gave us quite a scare when the midwife discovered the cord was wrapped around her neck. She stopped breathing every time I pushed. However, the last big push, Julia reached down pulled the cord free, and I heard the sweet high pitched wail of my only little girl. ( I would grow accustomed to that sound as she was a colicky baby.) She also broke her collar bones coming out, but the only evidence of her trauma was a little jaundice and a blue face from her top lip up. I had to leave her, too, but Dr. Bailey sent her home the next night with Billie lights and me and my glow worm were together again.

Colton was the easiest delivery: four hours and he scored an 8.5 on the Apgar. I was so happy. I was taking home my first baby within forty –eight hours of delivery. He looked really tan and I questioned the pediatrician at the time, because I had already had two jaundiced babies, but he assured me he was fine. A week later Colton was in the children’s hospital for jaundice. He was very sick. They talked about a lot of scary procedures and he had a little needle in his head. I prayed and begged God to help him. He did. We came home seven days later.

Ryan was a surprise. Five weeks early, his lungs were underdeveloped and they said he had pneumonia. It was awful. I had to leave yet another baby at the hospital. I visited every day during the hours they allowed me to come. I talked to him and read him books as I had the others. Seven days old, he came home for the first time.

I have often wondered how mothers of healthy babies can take them for granted. I do not know. You would think out of four, I would have had some better results. I believe with my whole heart, even as scary as it was, some mothers have it worse. Some mothers have it a lot worse.

photos by Clark Berry Photography

This article isn’t what I intended to write today when I sat down to pen this personal note. I was going to tell you about a birthday party that my family and some sweet friends gave me. I was going to tell you how Trey, Abby, and Colton sang at this party; about how even Ryan made a speech about his mom, and how proud I was watching my precious children stand up in a crowd of my friends and say the sweetest things about me. (I am sure I didn’t deserve most of it.) Instead, I want to tell you to be grateful. Be grateful for every moment that we have with our little ones, and our big ones. There are only so many moments in a lifetime. Make memories. Laugh. Love them. Enjoy them. Pray for them. Take care of them.

Treasure them. They have so much to teach us.

Abby and Trey

Colton and Ryan

God Bless, I remember my mother’s prayers and they have always followed me. They have clung to me all my life.

—Abraham Lincoln

Lori Samples Duncan

44

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

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