Lexington Woman Magazine

VOL 7, NO 5

COMPLIMENTARY

CELEBRATING, MOTIVATING, AND EDUCATING WOMEN

Real

TM

Get Your PINK ON

Join us in celebrating Breast Cancer Awareness in October and every other month of the year!

The REAL Coaches Wives of South Carolina

Meet the Women Behind the Men

In this Issue

TM

18

21

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Lori Samples Duncan (loriduncan86@gmail.com)

MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES

Crystal Poston Cathy Williams (info@lexingtonwomanonline.com)

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lori Samples Duncan Mayor Randy Halfacre Beth McCrary Amy Pittsenbarger Jennifer W. Potts, DVM Ginny Lawton Wood

COVER PHOTO

Clark Berry Photography

DESIGN

Melissa W. Morris

PHOTOGRAPHY Clark Berry Photography Robert Patrick Image Design

From the Editor

4 Celebrating Football and Pink!

Celebrating the Survivor in You!

Events

18 Surviving and Thriving: Keli McHale

Things We Love!

The Woman Behind the Man

5 What’s Happening?

6 Things We Love about Lexington!

Let’s Talk

7

8

10 12

15 17

Talk of the Town with Mayor Randy Halfacre Stacey Ashley: A Dancing Diva for the Cure Borrow My Sister: Ashby Jones Lexington Middle School Student Advocates for a World Without Diabetes Meet the Ladies of La Boutique Hitting the Spot at Tonella’s

22 26 28 30 32

Laura Howell Caryn Stepp Melanie Bennett Kathleen Swinney Jerri Spurrier

Health & Wellness

34

37 39

1 Gene, 5 Women, Multiple Choices Eye Health with Dr. John Payne Service with a Smile

Pets

41 Pet Obesity 42 A Palace Fit for a Pup

Business & Web Directory 43 Contact our Advertisers Find us on facebook!

Personal Note

44 A Momentous Year 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

DON’T FORGET! October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month! www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

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I

t’s football time. South Carolina is a buzz about what this year will bring for us to celebrate. Whether you are a Carolina or a Clemson fan there seems a lot to be excited about this year. never get tired of hearing that we did a good job. Doesn’t everyone enjoy a pat on the back from time to time?

This issue is our Pink issue. Not just because of Breast Cancer awareness in October. We at Lexington Woman Magazine feel that Cancer happens 365 days a year so we tell the stories of real men and women 365 days a year who have survived many types of cancer. May we all continue to raise the banner and fight against, Breast, Ovarian, Childhood Cancers, Kidney, Prostate, Cervical, Bone, and Blood Cancers and every other type of cancer that would steal life and joy from us and our loved ones.

We hope you enjoy the story about local survivor Kelly McHale and how she continues to help others through the process in this issue of LWM. We have also included some of our favorite previous articles on the wives of Coach Spurrier and Coach Swinney and a special treat for all you high school football lovers. We interviewed the wives of the new coaches at Lexington, White Knoll and Riverbluff High School to tell you about the “Real Coaches Wives of South Carolina.” Thanks to each of those ladies for giving us time from their busy summer schedules to make this issue possible.

Even though Lexington Medical Center took a break from the Pink Glove Dance this year, they did win the title two years previously. We have included the story of Mrs. Stacey Ashley and her part of that amazing event.

It’s great to be a woman in this wonderful world we live in. There are so many opportunities afforded to us and our daughters that our mothers and grandmothers would have never dreamed of, so we want to celebrate the spirit of those opportunities.

Even though there is evil in our midst as 9/11 always reminds us at this time of year there are many good things to celebrate as well.

We strive to always tell you the “good stuff ” about our friends and neighbors who are making a difference and impacting lives.

Make a decision today to do something kind for someone, even if it’s just to offer a smile to a stranger, you may never know the positive impact one tiny inexpensive gift could make in the life of another person.

A special thanks to our little cover model Ms. Kaleigh Howell for coming out on a HOT summer day and sweating through a rigorous photo shoot (mom and dad too). You are a champ!

Let the games begin! Get your pink on Lexington and celebrate all that is girly and fun in our great big wonderful lives!

Your Friend, Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

Lori Samples Duncan Editor-in-Chief

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Events

What’s HAPPENING? Congaree Bluegrass Festival October 5, 11 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Cayce City Hall Complex

This family-friendly festival will feature bluegrass performances along with tours of the Cayce Historical Museum and youth-oriented activities, making it a great time for families and children of all ages. The event will be held rain or shine. Come enjoy top-notch bluegrass bands. The Cayce Events Committee is very excited to announce that headlining this year’s event is Grasstowne. The festival is a free event, thanks to the generosity of several Cayce-area businesses and organizations. Bring your lawn chairs, but no coolers or pets, please. The Congaree Bluegrass Festival is an alcohol- and tobacco-free event. Parking will be available in and around the City Hall Complex and transportation from parking lots will be available to those who need special assistance. A play area is available for children and food vendors will be on hand to serve up popular festival food—hot dogs, french fries, bar-b-que, hamburgers, and more. A few surprises are planned, too!

When you come to the Congaree Bluegrass Festival, please bring a canned good or a non-perishable food item for God’s Helping Hands and Harvest Hope Food Bank.

Columbia Choral Society Fall Concert October 6, 4 p.m.

Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, 1512 Blanding Street, Columbia

The principal work is the beautiful Requiem by Gabriel Fauré, accompanied by organ with two fine soloists.

The Chorus is directed by Dr. David Lowry. For more information about the Choral Society, please visit the website below or call (803) 733-9060. www.columbiachoralsociety.org

SC State Fair October 9 – 20 State Fairgrounds

The South Carolina State Fair will celebrate its 144th year in 2013. The citizens of South Carolina will have exhibits on display varying from flowers, baked goods, canned goods, needlework, quilting, fine art, student art, livestock and agriculture. Commercial, historical and educational exhibits will also be showcased. The 12 day run of the fair will feature grandstand entertainment, stages with variety of acts such as comedy, bands, dancers, local entertainment and entertainment from South Carolina schools across the state. Rides will be provided by North American Midway Entertainment.

Call (803) 799-3387 for more information or visit the website below. www.scstatefair.org

Women’s Night Out 2013 October 15, 5 p.m.

Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center

What began as a search to learn about her birth family’s health history became a journey that led Heidi Marble to her biological sister! But one year later, at the age of 34, Heidi was diagnosed with inflammatory breast cancer and given a 1 in 1,000 chance of surviving. Five years later, with treatments and both breasts removed, she was cancer-free, but now her sister had been diagnosed with breast cancer. Then they learned that they both carry the BRCA2 breast cancer gene. Despite these challenges, the reunited sisters have shown that there are many paths to healing. Join Heidi and Jen as they share their incredible stories using props, pictures and unedited bantering. There will be health information exhibits and opportunities to meet some LMC physicians. The Health and Wellness exhibits, silent auction, and cash bar open at 5 p.m. with dinner served at 6:45 p.m. Free valet parking is available. Women’s Night Out

is hosted by Lexington Medical Center and proceeds from the event benefit the Crystal Smith Fund, a program through the Lexington Medical Center Foundation that helps women undergoing cancer treatment purchase needed supplies. www.lexmed.com

Oktoberfest Afloat the Historic Southern Patriot October 25, 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Southern Patriot, Lake Murray

It’s a Floating Polka Party! Enjoy great food, great music, and great fun. Delicious food will be served by Dupre Catering & Events with live music by Vince Dimor.

Tickets are $45 with a cash beverage bar onboard. Call (803) 749-8594 for reservations. www.lakemurraytours.com

Charity Haunted Trail for Harvest Hope Food Bank October 25, 26, and 31, 7 p.m. - 1 a.m.

305 Willow Forks Court, Lexington

Parking is located at Carolina Springs Middle School(6180 Platt Springs Road, Lexington). A hay ride to given to and from the trail area. The cost is free except for the donation of a canned good or a non-perishable food item to help Harvest Hope Food Bank.

Aiken Women’s Expo December 7 Family YMCA, Aiken

Come join Woman 2 Woman Publications for this free event featuring a survivor fashion show, vendors, live music, and food.

Sponsored by:

Come explore the world of the butterfly in this unique, living, outdoor exhibit at the South’s largest children’s museum.

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Things We Love!

Things We

About Lexington!

by Lori Samples Duncan

Fatz in Lexington Fatz in Lexington is a nice place to eat lunch or dinner, however the people make it feel like you are visiting friends not just eating out. Check out their all you can eat ribs.

games. This is a great way for families, scouts, schools, youth groups, and corporate parties to enjoy victory together! Take your family for a weekend to remember. Visit www. clintonseasefarm.com for hours and more information!

Lexington One Schools One of the reasons we chose to make Lexington our home was our award winning schools. I am excited about all the ways our Superintendent, staff and School Board are working hard to elevate the standards of our children’s education.

“Blessings” Bead

Clinton Sease Farm Corn Maze This is one of my family’s favorite things to do in the fall. As you navigate the 8 acre corn maze you will find clues, pictures, and

Dems Jewelry gifted me with the most amazing gift a couple of years ago – The Lexington Woman Bead “Blessings.” In the last three years we have supported a local cancer organization, The American Heart Association, and JDRF this past year. This year part of the profit for our “Blessings” bead will be donated to the Nehemiah Project, which helps at risk youth and their families.

Lexington Medical Center Isn’t it nice to live in a community where you can receive quality health care without driving a country mile to get it? Lexington Woman loves Lexington Medical Center!

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

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

Breast Self-Exam Tips:

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, please take the time to do a self-examination. Taking a few minutes once a month can make a lifetime of difference.

In the Shower Fingers flat, move gently over every part of each breast. Use your right hand to examine the left breast, left hand for the right breast. Check for any lump, hard knot, or thickening. Carefully observe any changes in your breasts.

In the Mirror Inspect your breasts with your arms at your sides. Next, raise your arms high overhead.

Look for any changes in the contour of each breast, a swelling, a dimpling of the skin, or changes in the nipples. Then rest your palms on your hips and press firmly to flex your chest muscles. Left and right breasts will not exactly match—few women’s breasts do.

Lying Down Place a pillow under your right shoulder and put your right arm behind your head.

With the fingers of your left hand flat, press your right breast gently in small circular motions, moving vertically or in a circular pattern covering the entire breast. Use light, medium, and firm pressure. Squeeze the nipple; check for discharge and lumps.

Repeat these steps for your left breast. www.nationalbreastcancer.org

Let’s Talk

TALK

of the town

with MAYOR RANDY HALFACRE

L

exington is a wonderful community to live, work, worship and play and that is largely due to our outstanding public safety led by the Lexington Police Department.

The 47 sworn officers, 4 sworn reserve officers and 4 administrative staff of our police department are committed to enhancing the quality of life within the Town of Lexington by building partnerships with our community.

Since 2006, Chief Terrence Green has commanded the department and has expanded the department’s role in the community. The department hosts several events throughout the year including the annual Citizen’s Academy, designed to give residents an up close and personal look at the police department; the annual National Night Out Celebration at Gibson Pond Park, teaching citizens to stand as a community to combat crime; the annual Fall Fest, raising money for the Adopt-A-Cop program and Toys for Tots, where the department joins forces with the United States Marine Corps providing Christmas presents to children in need.

The department’s leadership extends beyond Lexington as Chief Green is the President of the South Carolina Chiefs of Police Association; Community Action Team Officer Steffonie Cockerill is President of the Lexington County Law Enforcement Officers Association and Traffic Safety Officer Grady Johnson was awarded the distinguished honor of “2012 Alive at 25 Instructor of the Year”. Chief Green, Major Jay Koon and Lt. Chad Snelgrove are graduates of the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy.

Also, The Lexington Police Department strives to maintain an exemplary level of professionalism and is an international (CALEA) and state (SCLEA) accredited agency.

Council and I are proud of the entire department and their efforts to keep you, the residents, safe and sound each day. Thank you Lexington Police Department, keep up the great work!

Randy Halfacre, Mayor Town of Lexington

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Find Great People 719-5549

Antai 356-0062

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Bella-Riley’s Salon & Spa 808-0420

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Bojangles Restaurant of Lexington 957-2466 Caughman-Harman Funeral Home 798-5458

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Clamp’s Maintenance Services, LLC 957-3519 Express Employment Professionals 356-0304

Gold Coast Retail Portfolio 951-3993 Jewelry Warehouse, Inc. 794-0302

Lexington Gymnastics Academy 359-2420

Sylvan Learning Center 781-7323

Palmetto Business Exchange 606-4747

Tic Toc Candy Shoppe 237-9360

Phoenix Adventures 260-3669

The Club at Rawls Creek 781-0114

Power Breezer 528-5997 Primerica 419-1626

Jimmy Johns Gourmet Sandwiches 359-0710

Residence Inn Columbia NW/Harbison 749-7575

Larimore Properties 796-4790

Shamrock Spirits 399-8057

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by Amy Pittsenbarger photography by Clark Berry Photography

STACEY ASHLEY: A Dancing Diva for the Cure

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Let’s Talk

T

he Pink Glove Dance is an empowering and uplifting national campaign to raise awareness for breast cancer research. Stacey Kelly Ashley is the woman behind the award-winning choreography of Lexington Medical Center’s Pink Glove Dance (two years and counting!). She has worked in the past as both a Spanish teacher and a personal trainer, so she feels that her experience uniquely prepares her to teach group fitness classes. She works at Gold’s Gym in Forest Acres and in her time there, she has helped generate a huge interest in Zumba (Latin musicbased) classes.

“I have always loved to choreograph things in my mind. When Zumba came along…it was just fun. People of all ages and sizes come to the class,” says Ashley, “There is just magic that happens when you combine the spiritual and physical.

That is what the group fitness is really all about for me, and getting to use that for something as amazing as Pink Glove…it just does not get any better. Inspiration, fitness and strength and the element of God being in it, there is nothing better.”

In the fall of 2011, Ashley was approached by Lexington Medical Center about choreographing a 40 second routine to Katy Perry’s song, “Firework”. She knew nothing about the rest of the project or how many people to expect, but had been told to prepare a “big ending”. When she arrived at

Dance competition, and they performed it again-this time for FOX News!

When LMC contacted Ashley again in 2012, this time for her to create an entire dance to Katy Perry’s “Piece of Me”, she wholeheartedly accepted. “I volunteered several weeks during the fall and it was probably close to 40 hours a week, and some days we filmed 12 hours a day…. the marketing group put them all together and it was wonderful.” Ashley explained that she was not even fully aware of the impact of the Pink Glove Dance campaign until she began working on the second one. She also emphasizes her respect for the strength of the women who had overcome breast cancer and were participating in the dance. “I make my living on strength… and there is nothing I can do during the day or in my career that can touch that [kind of] strength. That was the most touching thing for me…most people would say it was a story of inspiration, and it was, but for me it was the strength,” explains Ashley. For those of you who have not yet seen Lexington Medical Center’s Pink Glove Dance (2011 and 2012), go watch it immediately!

They are uplifting, catchy, and nearly guaranteed to put a smile on your face. It is truly incredible to see the women of Lexington, even in the face of life-threatening illnesses, show such courage and strength!

‘I make my living on strength… and there is nothing I can do during the day or in my career that can touch that [kind of] strength.’

LMC, there were 100 employees eagerly waiting. “I taught them the dance and filmed it. It was blind choreography; I was dealing with a huge crowd so I had to go with a middle of the road [skill level],” explains Ashley. The dance ended up winning the national Pink Glove

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Let’s Talk

Borrow MY SISTER: Ashby Jones

by Ginny Lawton Wood

I

walked into the lunch room freshman year at the beginning of second semester to find an unwelcome surprise; someone was sitting at my usual seat. I was derailed. Everyone knew implicitly that your social rank determined your seat at lunch. The most popular kids were closer to the center seats; the less popular kids were flanking the ends; the outcasts were literally outcast, outside on the sidewalk. Clearly, someone failed to tell the preppy kid in my seat that just because his schedule changed didn’t mean he could take my seat. So, I told him. I was apparently wrong, apparently outranked. My own friends quickly turned against me in favor of his puppy-dog eyes and gleaming white teeth. I stood there with them looking up at me, waiting for me to walk away. I was alone, rejected, and humiliated.

Her compassion makes her a great lawyer because she always shows up, prepared and unfaltering in her loyalty.

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Then, the impossible happened.

My sister, one of the seniors in the inner table of a long line of senior tables, spotted me from across the cafeteria. Quickly surmising my distress, she rose and began trekking over to me and my peers. She didn’t have to ask; she could see what had occurred. With a few terse statements, a frighteningly intimidating glare, and an impenetrable confidence, my sister berated the entire table for rejecting me. Then, she invited me to her table, the table of senior nobility across the room. I sat with her for

an unprecedented week and never had trouble maintaining my place again.

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

My sister is Ashby Jones, and though she has come a long way since high school, her protective instincts, quick responses, intuition, and compassion are still her hallmark traits. These traits have made her a successful wife, mother, and lawyer.

Ashby now practices law in Lexington, focusing primarily on family law but also on Plaintiff ’s

litigation. Ashby’s confidence in the legal field comes from careful preparation for each case. She prioritizes the clients’ needs daily, working by the motto, “Just work the cases.” She has always been a worker. For several years in my childhood, I was not allowed to go in her room because I would disturb her studying. If Ashby Jones is confident when she walks into a courtroom, she should be. She is prepared.

Ashby’s reputation as a fighter stems from her desire to protect her clients’ interests and to maintain a level of dignity throughout any case. The guard-dog reaction I benefited from in the cafeteria

years ago has been replayed in countless situations for me and for many others since. Ashby’s fighting spirit is a comfort to her clients during confrontations, allowing them to trust that their lawyer will protect them from outside threats.

As a child I called Ashby, “second mommy.” She was the boss of me. She taught me to bunny-hop, to do a toe-touch, to put on make-up, and to study for the SAT. She also taught me to be compassionate.

She taught me that when someone is sick, I should, “Make something with cream of mushroom soup in it.” She taught me how to write a sincere thank-you note. She taught me that “showing up” is most important. Her compassion makes her a great lawyer because she always shows up, prepared and unfaltering in her loyalty.

Sometimes we all need a big sister to help us fight our battles and to help us find a seat at the table. I’m happy to share mine.

KINARD

JONES

LLC

Attorneys at Law

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•

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•

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

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Let’s Talk

Professional

Lexington Middle School Student Advocates for a World Without Diabetes

by Beth McCrary

A

t the young age of 12, Hannah McCrary of Lexington is an experienced advocate for JDRF. She has been attending New Member of Congress and Promise to Remember Me meetings with SC Members of Congress since being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes 5 years ago on August 21, 2008. She understands the importance of sharing her diagnosis story and the impact living with T1D has on her life with our elected officials. She realizes that at the end of the day, members of Congress only know what is important to their constituents if we tell them.

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Hannah was selected to travel to Washington, DC this past summer to participate in JDRF Children’s Congress along with 160 delegates from the United States and 6 international countries. She is one of three SC delegates chosen from a pool of over 1500 total applicants living with Type 1 Diabetes between the ages of 4-17 years old to participate in this bi-annual event.

Since being diagnosed at age 7, Hannah and her family have been doing their part to help JDRF raise

awareness of T1D and funds for research by volunteering at local JDRF Palmetto Chapter walks, galas and golf tournaments. They also serve as mentors to newly diagnosed families.

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

While in Washington, Hannah joined all of the Children’s Congress delegates in asking their members of Congress to do their part and support a multi-year renewal of the Special Diabetes Program. The Special Diabetes Program (in place

While in Washington, Hannah joined all of the Children’s Congress delegates in asking their members of Congress to do their part and support a multi-year renewal of the Special Diabetes Program.

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Hannah with Vice President Joe Biden since 1997) funds research that has made significant advances in cure therapies, prevention studies and treatment improvements that have decreased the burden of living with T1D. Highlights of Hannah’s trip to Children’s Congress include a Town Hall question and answer session with celebrity advocates, hill blitz training and sitting in on a Special Senate Hearing before the Commission on Aging.

The purpose of the hearing was to drive home the importance of continued funding of the Special Diabetes Program and to gain national media attention.

Just prior to the senate hearing, the delegates reported to the Atrium of the Hart Senate Building for a group photo with the celebrity advocates and a surprise guest. After waiting for over an hour, the delegates were not disappointed. Vice President Joe Biden apologized for his tardiness and offered words of encouragement and commended the delegates for their courage and bravery while dealing with a chronic disease.

Throughout the remainder of 2013, Hannah will continue in her Children’s Congress delegate role by helping her mother

schedule and coordinate Promise to Remember Me meetings with all nine SC members of Congress in their home districts. Promise meetings are an opportunity for local families impacted by Type 1 Diabetes to share their stories and ask for continued support of diabetes research.

Hannah and her family are passionate about raising awareness of Type 1 Diabetes and the funds to find a cure. They invite you to join their efforts to create a world without Type 1 Diabetes by registering to be an advocate at www. jdrf.org/advocacy and getting involved with the local JDRF Palmetto Chapter. For more information, please contact Dana Bruce, Executive Director or Beth McCrary, Advocacy Team Chair at 782-1477.

To learn more about Children’s Congress, visit: http://cc.jdrf.org/about-jdrf-childrens-congress/ To view SC delegates profiles, visit; http://cc.jdrf.org/delegate-locations/south-carolina/

Beth McCrary is a freelance writer living in Lexington, SC and serves as Advocacy Team Chair for the JDRF Palmetto Chapter. www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Real Women

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Meet the Ladies of La Boutique

by Amy Pittsenbarger

A

pril Mills is a force to be reckoned with in the business world. She is full of life and energy, and when I had the pleasure of talking with her, I saw that she was someone who was passionate about her business. “My vision in all of this is to empower women, inspire them to create investments and to live their potential,” says Mills.

Mills opened La Boutique on July 21, 2012. Prior to that, she had been working as a Certified Dental Assistant for 20 years. She’s been with Cayce Family Dentistry for the past nine years and counting.

And Mills says that this certainly kept her happy. But she says that she still felt something was missing in her life, some kind of commitment from herself. Mills explains that there are so many women who are scared to take a leap and own something with their name attached to it. Whatever part of your life you value most, Mills says, “finances are [going to be] involved and have to be a priority. To me, creating an investment in myself is the most important [for] creating a future for my family.”

So Mills did something that even in today’s world is all too rare: she opened a store designed for women and by women! She says that she lives by the motto, “Live in faith, not fear.” “I started talking to friends, following social media sites, and attending vendor events to recruit the team of women that now make up La Boutique,” says Mills. Today, La Boutique is made up of a comprehensive team of ten female entrepreneurs! As a bit of a shopaholic myself, there are not words to describe how adorable all of La Boutique’s products are!

They sell everything from clothes and jewelry, to tote bags and home décor. The store provides plenty of options for customizing or monogramming your products, and they

have an extensive line of children’s clothes and accessories. La Boutique is a special store for one very simple fact-it is fun and affordable shopping for women and their families.

Not only is Mills a fantastic businesswoman, she is also an allaround inspiration for women looking to start a business of their own. Her biggest piece of advice is quite simple-surround yourself with people you admire and aspire to be like. “I surround myself daily with very talented, kind, enthusiastic, and encouraging women.

I network with highly successful individuals and I look to them for advice,” says Mills. Her second piece of tried and true advice is to

stay positive and committed. “If it was easy, everybody would do it.

There are bumps in the road and when there are, I surround myself with my team…and get encouragement,” explains Mills. She expresses hope that in the next five years, there may be a second store location of La Boutique, “so that we can share our vision and success with many others.”

If you are interested in discovering more about the empowering enterprise that is La Boutique: check them out on Facebook or Instagram, stop by their Etsy shop, or visit them at 254 Corley Mill Road, Lexington, SC.

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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16

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Hitting the

SPOT at Tonella’s photo by Robert Patrick Image Design

T

he hustle and bustle of the restaurant business is nothing new to Tony Tonelis; for over 24 years now he has lived, breathed and worked right at the heart of it. Now the owner and operator of two local restaurants, Tony has worked put the “fine” back into casual Italian dining. He has been successful in his first restaurant location, and was eager to continue expanding with the beginning of 2013.

“We have been open for three years in Ballentine,” said Tony, referencing Tonella’s Pizza Kitchen in Ballentine, S.C.. After two years of flourishing development and building a strong reputation within the local community, Tony was ready to expand when an opportunity presented itself in Lexington. Putting a slightly different spin on his new location, Tony chose to open an old Lexington favorite. The Bistro in the Shoppes at the Flight Deck seemed like a good fit for his concept, and fit the vibe of the Lexington dining community, while staying true to his Italian roots. “I enjoy creating new things,” said Tony. After a year of careful preparation, Tonella’s Bistro opened its doors on February 20, 2013.

Although he wears it well, Tony didn’t waltz into his position as owner. It was a long journey,

paved with experience and hard work that began in his hometown in the Pocono Mountains, as a 12-year-old dishwasher for a local restaurant. “I started washing dishes in the kitchen, went to busing tables as a youngster and then waited tables for years,” said Tony.

He continued climbing the ladder, moving to management and Maitre D positions in Hilton Head, S.C. Then a few years later, when a friend reached out for his expertise, Tony moved to Philadelphia and became General Manager of the Kennedy-Supplee Mansion and several other restaurants in the area.

“Then I wound up in the development business,” said Tony, recalling when his career underwent a total transition into custom home building. Tony moved to Columbia to work with a local developer and shortly thereafter started his own

company building custom homes.

For some years Tony thought he would retire there, with no initial thoughts of ever returning to the restaurant business. “Although they say once it is in you, it is in you,” Tony said.

And in him it was. In 2010, Tony returned with the launching of Tonella’s Pizza Kitchen. “I was always in restaurants,” Tony said about his time in restaurant management. “This is much more family casual.” Ironically, it was in the midst of the quest to create a family-friendly environment the Tonelis’ also ended up expanding their family. A year into the restaurant, he and his wife Elizabeth had their son, Miles. “It wasn’t what I was expecting at 48,” Tony said about the 21-year age gap between children. “But I could not imagine life without him. He keeps us busy and he is quite a joy.”

Tony looks forward to the opportunity to connect with the Lexington through the opening of Tonella’s Bistro. “Just being around the people, serving the community is something I look forward to and enjoy,” said Tony. “I truly believe that this is their restaurant and I just work there.”

Tonella’s Bistro strives to offer a warm and relaxing environment.

With a staff committed to excellence, the kitchen is always open to accommodating special dietary needs or requests. Tony has traveled throughout Italy to find different recipes and styles of cooking to offer in his restaurants. The unique diversity of the menu also offers a wide range of dishes to satisfy every craving – whether it’s for classic risotto, sizzling NY strip, seafood favorites or hand tossed pizza, there’s something for everyone at Tonella’s. www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

17

Surviving and Thriving:

Keli McHale

by Lori Samples Duncan

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

Survivor in You!

C

ancer affects all in different ways. I think after nine years of telling the stories of survivors, I can make that statement confidently. At Lexington Woman Magazine, we talk about survivors in every issue. Not just in months that have a cancer associated with it. Cancer happens 365 days of year and surviving happens 365 days a year. I am going to tell you a little bit about another local woman who is surviving and thriving in our community.

Keli McHale is no exception. I met Keli at Vital Energy while rehabbing my knee. I had no idea she was a breast cancer survivor. Every time I went to Vital Energy, Keli was smiling and laughing. She always had a kind word and a little encouragement. I should have known there was something special about her just by her attitude of gratitude. “Luckily slow growing estrogen positive, I had Ductal Carcinoma In Situ STAGE 1.” This is a non-invasive localized condition that if left untreated can spread to surrounding regions.

Upon returning from a trip overseas in July, 2006, Keli began to drain profusely from her breast. Keli states, “My inside voice said, you have breast cancer.” She immediately made an appointment with a radiologist, as Keli had had a lump in her breast she had been monitoring since she was 37. The radiologist said she did not need a biopsy despite discussing all of her symptoms. “I figured I must be overacting as I had been working with cancer survivors for 10 years,” reflects Keli.

Keli’s diagnosis of breast cancer came in 2008.

“After a series of mammogram images were taken, the radiologist took my hand and said ‘you have cancer’ and I simply froze”, said Keli.

“I wanted to have the quickest recovery possible, so I needed to arm myself with a great team of cancer physicians and my Occupational Therapist and friend, Hima Dalal, OTR/L and Owner of Vital Energy Therapy. This, along with supportive co-workers lifting me up in prayer helped me through.”

Keli has always been open and receptive to complementary/alternative therapies, so Hima Dalal’s advice of healthy eating and treatments which included not only traditional occupational therapy but also myofascial release treatment and muscle energy treatment. Keli would receive Muscle Energy Treatment sessions 3x/week and Aqua Detox sessions 2x/week

‘I wanted to have the quickest recovery possible, so I needed to arm myself with a great team of cancer physicians and my Occupational Therapist and friend, Hima Dalal.’ for 1 month. The intention of Keli during this month was to try to decrease the size of her tumor. With the pre-op hands-on treatments Keli received from Hima Dalal, the tumor not only decreased in size but became more lucid. Keli also experienced increased energy levels during this time period. Post-op occupational therapy of myofascial release helped to keep her functional and pain free. “I was so overwhelmed with the outpouring of support of everyone. I knew I had to get better”, says Keli.

“One of the most difficult parts of my journey was to make a clear decision about adopting a child as a single parent. For 2 years I had worked on the process of adopting a child, but something kept hesitating inside me. I had thought through all angles of issues I would deal with being a single parent, but I never thought about becoming ill. So in making clear decision, I decided to channel my desire to have a child into treating children with Occupational Therapy at Vital Energy under Hima’s guidance and direction. This would prove to be more rewarding than I had ever imagined. I am filled with such appreciation of all the parents for allowing me this very beautiful opportunity to work with their amazing child.”

While cancer seems to be such a heavy illness to deal with, for Keli, well she says that it has

given her clarity in what is most important in her life. “I realized that we never know what may happen each day”, says Keli. Keli went on to say, “I needed to live life fully and to go after what I want in my life. I am in a lovely relationship with a wonderful man. I realize I need to spend more time with my wonderful parents and friends. My priority to take care of myself really hits home.” Hima and Keli both urge anyone who may possibly have signs of cancer to not be afraid and seek professional medical help right away.

Keli says that the biggest lesson she has learned is that “we must create our happiness each day, no matter what we face in our daily lives. Always trust your heart.” In Keli’s humbling words, “I would not have made it through my journey without excellent healthcare professionals, support from my parents, friends and co-workers, and most of all the fierce determination to win over my battle. I want to thank everyone who prayed for me during my journey. I know I was on prayer lists of people I did not even know personally. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

Keli has passed her 5th year as a survivor on July 15, 2013. Keli had some closing words for you, “Open your heart, share your love with others and truly live each day filled with gratitude.” www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

19

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

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‘To me, the coaching profession is one of the most noblest and far-reaching in building manhood. No man is too good to be an athletic coach for youth.’

—Amos Alonzo Stagg, Hall of Fame football and basketball

MEET THE WOMEN

BEHIND THE MEN

by Lori Samples Duncan

(photography by Clark Berry Photography)

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

21

Meet LAURA HOWELL, wife of

22

COACH DEANRealHOWELL of WHITE KNOLL HIGH SCHOOL

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Women

The Woman Behind the Man

A

s a mother of a son who had the benefit of some great Lexington Coaching I can attest this statement is true.

Fortunately for the students at WKHS, Dean Howell doesn’t take his responsibility lightly, nor does his supportive wife. I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Coach Howell’s lovely wife and pick her brain about how she handles the rigor and the pressure of all the responsibilities at home, while her husband basically works two jobs and fathers a hundred plus boys.

Mrs. Laura Howell has been “the woman behind the man” for seven years and is the proud mother of two precious little ones, Kaleigh, three, and Connor, 16 months. Laura works for Clarke & Company Benefits and did not have to leave her career when Coach Howell made the move to WKHS because they were already local residents. She is a graduate of Brookland Cayce High School in West Columbia where she played soccer and was on the swim team.

Post high school, she attended North Greeenville University where she played soccer. After college graduation, she coached the Brookland Cayce Swim team, so being active in sports and in coaching, she realizes the demand but at the same time, the rewards of being a coach.

Laura talks about her husband he is loved. Having made a commitment from before they were married to support his role in the lives of young men, she recognized the important part in their family and in his professional life she would play.

Laura made that commitment because as she says, “it is what he loves to do and it is what he has been called to do.”

‘It is so rewarding… when kids will text him and say thanks for the encouragement.

Or when kids are asked who has been your role model and they say, “Coach Howell” even though they do not have to.’

Laura shared the story of how she and Dean met: “Dean was a football coach at Brookland Cayce and I coached swimming. We had several fall meetings together and he was a sponsor of Fellowship of Christian Athletes. When I first saw him, I thought, “Wow, I’ve got to get to know this guy”. I asked him if I could help him with FCA, we got to know each other and after a few dates, I knew he was the real deal.

We met in August, got engaged in February and were married that next July.” It is obvious when

Laura is obviously proud of her husband when she speaks of the way his students talk about him. “It is so rewarding…when kids will text him and say thanks for the encouragement. Or when kids are asked who has been your role model and they say, “Coach Howell”. There might be a kid who does not have a lot of playing time but they still say [they admire] Coach Howell because he encourages [them]. He keeps in touch with so many of his kids from BC, AC Flora and Chapin. That just shows what kind of man he is.”

One way that Laura supports her husband is by being at every game and always making a trip out on the field afterwards to offer congratulations or support. She may not see him for a while after the game, as he always watches film immediately. Laura says, “He definitely takes his time www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

23

‘The main thing is that Dean is a family man. His faith is first, then family, followed by football.’

and tries to perfect everything that he is doing for the football team…He wants to make his corrections on whatever mistakes they made and fix it before the next week…. He is always pressing forward in life and on the football field. [He asks himself], ‘How can we get better and how can I encourage these kids to be like Christ, but also to be a father figure and to be a head coach.”

Coach Howell doesn’t take his responsibility as a mentor and a leader to his student athletes lightly. It is a difficult balance for the Athletic Director and Head Football Coach between all of his other responsibilities as well as that of his family. However he has a pro in his corner with Laura: “I try to make our home life as calm as possible,” Laura says. “I try to have the housework done…and dinner ready as he is coming in so that is one less thing he has to worry about. We are very fortunate to have our families close by and they always help us with the kids. Dean tries to keep Saturdays available for family time. We have a great time just being together as a family. I try to have the children ready for bed by the time he gets home so we can have time for just the two of us. I constantly have to ask myself, ‘What does Dean need from me?’

He needs that constant support and If I can make it easier for him on the house side, then he can perform better at his job and being a father figure to those that need him.

There was quite a buzz about Coach Dean Howell changing things up at WKHS after a somewhat successful season last year. As a person who has a “dog in that fight” as the expression goes, I can tell you that Coach Howell has already won many of the boys over.

I asked Laura what she wanted to share with us that might help us still “love” Coach Howell after a rough game and here is what she had to say: “The main thing is that Dean is a family man. His faith is first, then family, followed by football. This is a great step up for him from AC Flora and AC Flora was a wonderful experience. I am looking forward to him being the Athletic Director at White Knoll as well…We are just excited for this opportunity so that other people may come to know Christ. We love meeting new people, and for Kaleigh and Connor to meet new friends that will, hopefully, become lifetime friends. We would like to be in this community for a long time, and be able to watch all the kids grow up and go through school and become good citizens. To do that and to know that Dean had a part in that would really make us proud. It just confirms he is where he is supposed to be”.

WKHS is proud that the Howell family has joined the pack. We are looking forward to all the ways this strong family will impact the White Knoll community.

24

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Congratulations senior players! We hope you all have a great year!

2013 WHITE KNOLL HIGH SCHOOL VARSITY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

2013 LEXINGTON HIGH SCHOOL VARSITY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

DATE

OPPONENT

LOCATION

DATE

OPPONENT

LOCATION

August 23

AC Flora High School

Home

August 30

Ridge View High School

Away

August 30

Mid-Carolina High School

Away

September 6

Blythewood High School

Away

September 6

Airport High School

Home

September 13

Spring Valley High School

Home

September 13

Carolina Forest High School

Away

September 20

Irmo High School

Home

September 27

Lugoff-Elgin High School

Away

September 27

Cooper City Florida

Away

October 4

Spring Valley High School

Home

October 4

Lugoff-Elgin High School

Home

October 11

Aiken High School

Home

October 11

North Augusta High School

Away

October 18

North Augusta High School

Home

October 18

South Aiken High School

Home

October 25

Dutch Fork High School

Away

October 25

Aiken High School

Home

November 1

South Aiken High School

Away

November 1

Dutch Fork High School

Away

November 8

Lexington High School

Home

November 8

White Knoll High School

Away

2013 RIVER BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL VARSITY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE DATE

OPPONENT

LOCATION

September 6

St. Joseph’s Catholic High School

Away

October 11

Great Falls

Home

October 17

Hickory Grove Christian

Home

November 1

Estill High School

Home

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

25

Meet CARYN STEPP, wife of

26

COACH JOSH STEPP of LEXINGTON HIGH SCHOOL Real

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Women

The Woman Behind the Man

C

aryn Stepp was a cheerleader throughout high school and into college. When one of the football coaches at her high school found out she was going to Newberry College, he told her to check out the quarterback – Josh Stepp – because he “wasn’t too bad.” As fate would have it, the two met in the training room after they had finished practice one day, and the rest, as they say, is history. Caryn and Josh always watched football games together and often even played the game in their spare time. “I had to impress him with my throwing ability and show him I could hold my own,” says Caryn, “I was always cheering for Josh at the games (literally) and I loved watching him do what he loved the most.”

The Stepps have been married for six years and have two beautiful little girls - Rilee Hope, 5 and Emma Paisley, 3 months - that have Daddy wrapped around their collective little fingers. Caryn says Rilee is like the little girl from Remember the Titans: daddy’s biggest cheerleader, she loves Friday night football games cheering for the team and dancing with the band.

The Stepp family loves the warm welcome they have received from Lexington since Coach Stepp took on the position of head football coach at Lexington High School.

“It always makes your job a little easier when you are welcomed with open arms and such gratitude! Since we just had our baby girl, I haven’t been able to get out and meet as many people, but I have been welcomed by the amazing folks I have met so far.”

Mrs. Stepp says that she loves seeing how her husband relates and interacts with the kids on the football team; “he loves every single one of those boys and would do anything for them. He is tough on them so that they realize the value of how things being earned. He’s also very big on respect and the value of being a team (family) and that you win or lose as a team.” The time commitment is an issue, she

‘It always makes your job a little easier when you are welcomed with open arms and such gratitude!’

admits, especially since they have little ones who do not necessarily understand that Daddy has to be gone to coach. “But, the girls and I like a W on Friday night, so whatever it takes to get the boys ready!”

Sometimes Caryn does her part on Friday mornings by giving Coach Stepp a “game speech.” While watching film, she sometimes jokes around with him about what defense he should have run or what play he should have called offensively, but nothing too serious. Football is truly a family affair for the Stepps, and, says Caryn, “We are honored to be a part of the Lexington Community and are excited about a great season of Wildcat football!”

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

27

Meet MELANIE BENNETT, wife of

28

COACH DAVID BENNETT of RIVER BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL Real

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Women

The Woman Behind the Man

I

must admit it was hard not to immediately like David and Melanie Bennett. When I called to set up the interview with Melanie I had to go through Coach Bennett. I told him what I wanted to do and this was his response: “Behind every good man is a GREAT woman. My wife really looks after me. She sends me little devotions every day to keep me on track and grounded. She encourages me all the time. She keeps me lifted up.”

As a married woman who loves her husband, there is little I like more than to hear a man brag about his wife. So I am a new fan of Coach David Bennett. When I met Mrs. Bennett it was hard not to be equally enamored of her as well. Melanie was so spunky and just seemed to exude fun and friendliness. The resounding message of what I heard from both she and Mrs. Howell was that faith and football go hand-in-hand for these families.

Melanie and David love football, so this was a great place to start. Melanie said she loved it so much that she even took a class on the theories of football. Before there were children, she would even go watch film with Coach Bennett. The role she has always felt secure in was her role in her home. Even though she is college educated it was never her desire to “climb the corporate ladder,” Melanie explains. “I knew I was supposed to be a wife and a mother and that is my joy. I know [David] was called to be a coach, and I have always known that. It is easier to support him and I can find my fulfillment in him, my family and my church. Supporting him came easily and I knew it was something I was supposed to do.

When David is [home] I do not want him to do the chores. I still to this day cut the grass. It just works for us! He is the head of our household and I run the house.”

Coach Bennett was born and raised in Greer, South Carolina.

He moved with his family to Cheraw when he was a young teen.

Melanie was born and raised in Winston Salem, North Carolina but her family moved around a lot because her father was with the YMCA. “We moved to Hanahan, (outside of Charleston) where I graduated high school,” Melanie describes, “Since I was at a South Carolina high school I got information about South Carolina colleges. I ended up at Newberry College and that is where I met David. We started our marriage at Catawba College. He was coaching there and I worked for Food Lion in Salisbury (their corporate office). We were there for 12 years and then we moved to Conway.

They started the football program at Coastal Carolina and we were there for 12 years and now we are here. Hopefully we can be here for 12 years,” she smiles.

Melanie and Coach Bennett are the proud parents of two children. Their son, Jeb, is a senior at River Bluff High School and their daughter, Hayes, is a Clemson Junior. Melanie had the opportunity to stay at home when they were at Coastal and raise her children. She worked part-time at an elementary school and volunteered a lot as well, but her flexible schedule gave her the opportunity to be where her kids needed her to be. It also gave her the time to help when Coach Bennett needed her! Starting a new program has many demands and she was willing and able to help anyway she could. Melanie speaks fondly of those years: “Monday nights they practiced, so it might mean having dinner ready earlier.

During the season we might eat

I knew I was supposed to be a wife and a mother and that is my joy. in the car or at a picnic table, then Coach would leave and kids and I might go to practice or home to do homework. We established certain routines because it was important to see Daddy and at least have a few meals together…Fridays we would help with the team snack.

We never missed a game. I finally missed two Coastal games when our daughter went off to Clemson and was cheering, [but I] make it a priority to stay involved.”

Melanie says she is already settling into Lexington very well. “You know you are in the right place when everyone wants you to come and visit their church.” Marveling at how people get by without their faith, Melanie says, “I do not know how people get through tough times. Leaving our neighborhood in Conway was [so] hard. But the people here have been so welcoming. We have clung to Jeremiah 29:11. [The day we were putting a down payment on the house here] I was freaking out because we had not sold our Conway house yet.

We knew we were coming and we needed a place to live.. I was

a nervous wreck. Nothing was working out and I opened my devotional and the first one I got to was titled “Stop Procrastinating”.

It was all about fear keeping you from what God wants you to do.

I knew at that moment what God wanted me to do, and I went and wrote the check. From then on everything has fallen into place. The house has still not sold, but it will, and everything else could not have happened more smoothly. I was blessed to get this job at the district office and none of this would have happened without our faith.”

I am not sure what God has in store for the Bennetts or River Bluff High School but I am sure he is in control. It was truly a pleasure to spend an afternoon with the woman behind River Bluff ’s new Head Coach and Athletic Director.

Even though winning is fun, and football is exciting, some things are just more important than a game. Lexington Woman would like to welcome River Bluff High School to District One’s family of high schools. Go Gators!

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

29

I

had the opportunity to visit Clemson University this fall to meet with Head Football Coach Dabo Swinney’s wife, Kathleen. It was an exciting visit for me because Clemson is beautiful and the surrounding town has lots of charm.

As I drove onto the campus filled with laughing students walking and playing sports on beautiful lawns, I was reminded of my own college experience at Brenau University in Gainesville, Georgia.

Hollywood has brought many of us glimpses into the lives of a coach’s family. There are dozens of movies that document significant athletic teams and historical moments in sports through the years and in each movie there is always one constant: the strong character of the coach’s wife.

Kathleen Swinney is one such Coach’s wife.

She was a gracious hostess when she showed me Death Valley. Although their older son was at middle school basketball try outs, I had the privilege of meeting two of their young sons, Clay and Drew, and was afforded the occasion to witness Coach Swinney with his sons.

It was a special moment for me because as an overly exuberant fan of college football myself, I think sometimes we forget that the men behind the logo are fathers, husbands and friends.

Meet KATHLEEN SWINNEY, wife of 30

COACH DABO SWINNEY of CLEMSON UNIVERSITY

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Realoriginally Women (This article appeared in our Fall 2011 issue and was so well received that we’ve included it again!)

The Woman Behind the Man Coach Swinney appeared to be a loving and attentive father. I saw him ruffle each son’s hair and ask about their day. And ladies, he is even better looking in person than he is on TV. A kind man, he had one of my favorite quotes crocheted in a frame on his wall: “No man can open a door God closes and no man can shut a door God opens.”

While we know that you have to win in order to keep your job, it is our belief that Dabo’s real life work is growing and molding these young men.

All that being said, I wasn’t at Clemson for a visit with Coach Swinney. I was there to speak with the woman behind the man.

I asked Kathleen to tell me a little about her, and her role as a support to her husband.

Dabo and Kathleen met during grade school in Birmingham, Alabama, she was a first grader and he was a second grader. Kathleen says he still teases her to this day saying, “I got you elected to safety patrol.”

Yes, Coach Swinney still reminds his beautiful bride that he rallied for her to hold that esteemed title back when he was a fifth grader and she a fourth. Here they are, a few years and three children later, Dabo a head coach of the new ACC Championship team.

Kathleen’s favorite part about being a coach’s wife is all of the players and people she meets. “18-22 is a big transformation time and it is truly neat to see the boys grow into young men and to get to know their parents. Clemson graduates over 90% of their players, and I’m always a little sad to see them go, although we stay in touch. Another really neat part of football that is so special to me is watching as people from different backgrounds become best friends. Boys who most likely would never have met, suddenly find themselves at each other’s homes for the holidays. Dabo still has friends back from when he played at Alabama who he stays in touch with. Watching people grow as a result of this common bond called football is really fascinating to me.”

And the most difficult aspect of being married to a coach, for Kathleen, is those times when you are subjected to intense criticism and downright cruelty in the court of public opinion, “While we know that you have to win in order to keep your job, it is our belief that Dabo’s real life work is growing and molding these young men. That’s his number one responsibility.”

Knowing that it presents some special challenges, Kathleen would advise other wives of football coaches to “love and support your husband if coaching is what he is called to do. It’s a privilege to be a coach or a teacher and if you are a woman of faith, supporting him is a lot easier.”

Being a football family requires a lot of sacrifice, especially when it comes to time spent together. “Seven months a year,” states Kathleen, “my husband works seven days a week. When the season is over, he and his staff recruit through February. That’s a lot of time away from the family and our children’s activities.”

If you follow college football in the south at all, then you likely know that Clemson ended Auburn’s 17 game winning streak this fall. “It

was absolutely wonderful!” she exclaims, “especially since both of us are Alabama (Auburn’s biggest rival) graduates, Auburn is just the team you want to beat! Especially after last year. I was so happy for him and so happy for the players.

You could literally see the excitement coming from him. It was just thrilling. They were well prepared.”

Kathleen says that the moment in her husband’s career, which stands out the most is when he was named head coach of the Clemson Tigers.

Having read about him, seen him on television, and met him briefly, I asked Mrs. Swinney if Dabo was really as nice as he seems: “Absolutely! He is very driven and strict with his rules when it comes to his team and his boys. He just wants the best for everyone. He loves his players, his coaches, and he is the most wonderful father.”

In her free time, Kathleen enjoys spending time with her family, as they go to Clemson basketball and baseball games, pro sporting events and travel when time permits. And of course, she enjoys reading and reading books with her sons. She and the other coaches wives also enjoy baking goodies for the players when they are allowed those extras.

As I talked with Kathleen, it was very evident to me that coaching football isn’t just a job for her husband. She feels like he is there to make a difference in people’s lives.

And she is there to help him do just that. I felt like I had just spent a couple of hours with a friend after my time with Mrs. Swinney, I felt honored to be in the presence of someone who really lives every day to make an impact on the world around her.

As we were walking toward the stadium one of the Clemson staff poked their head out of an office and informed us we were talking to “the second hottest woman in college football,” and in truth it was hard not to miss what a lovely lady she was. Kathleen like many of the coach’s wives I have had the privilege to interview radiated that beauty from the inside out. She was an absolute delight to interview and no matter what college team is my personal favorite I will never again be able to watch a Clemson game without thinking of this smart, vibrant lady who spoke of her husband with such obvious love and devotion. Clemson University, in my humble opinion is lucky to have Coach Swinney and his wife. www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Meet JERRI SPURRIER, wife of

COACH STEVE SPURRIER of UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA Real

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Women (This article originally appeared in our Fall 2011 issue and was so well received that we’ve included it again!)

The Woman Behind the Man

M

rs. Jerri Spurrier is from Fort Lauderdale, but when I asked her where home is she smiled in that Jerri Spurrier way and said, “Here (pause) in South Carolina.” The consummate Team Mother, every season she inherits a new group of children. 103 boys become family to the Spurriers and the other coaches at the University of South Carolina.

You know behind every good man is an even better woman and as my daddy used to say, “a woman can make you or break you.” If this is true, I think it’s fair to say that Mrs. Jerri Spurrier has played a major role in her husband’s success. The mother of four grown children, Amy, Lisa, Steve, Jr., and Scott and grandmother to a host of grandchildren, I asked Jerri what she loved most about being a grandmother. She was glowing as she said, “their parents. I am a mother first. I just love being a mother, I love taking care of my older children. It trickles down to the grandchildren.”

As we visited on a sunny day in April I had the opportunity to listen as she spoke of each of her children and how blessed she feels in her life.

She talked about the importance of spending time together and how she enjoys them as adults. I wanted to know if she had some words of wisdom for us parents who still have little ones. This was her response, “Every day, I try to teach them something different. It never stops. Every day we are as parents still teaching and guiding. Riding in the car with them sharing your days together.” Teaching them the importance of, “honesty, looking people in the face and talking to them about what you need. Don’t text, or email. Sit down with someone so they understand where you are coming from.”

the future Heisman trophy winner didn’t have a paying job…yet. Mrs. Jerri said she was the best dressed girl at the drive-in! On September 14, 1966, she became his wife, and now almost forty five years later, she still blushes when she talks about him.

She is a huge support to the football program at the University of South Carolina. She is at practice every afternoon and on game day she can be found sitting in the stands with the families of players and the other coaches’ wives. They have family dinner every Wednesday night.

Children’s hospital board, “I am on the children’s hospital board but I really don’t spread myself too thin.” Her hobbies are cooking and running. She enjoys her classwork. She goes to the Russell House where she says all the players hang out. She is definitely hands on, currently working on a degree in psychology at USC herself. She actually goes to school with the players.

She is modest. When she talks about the players of the University of South Carolina football team it is obvious she cares deeply for them and the young men they will become.

Understanding how much she loved football I had to ask, “What do you love about being a coach’s wife?”

I have three of my men on the field at the same time, my husband and my two sons. I get to watch them do what they do. It is amazing how fortunate I am.’

Mrs. Jerri Starr Spurrier met the old Ball Coach in college and dated during the time they were both Students at University of Florida. Jerri was a big sister for some of the fraternity brothers in Steve’s fraternity. She told me a story about their first date. She had saved some money and bought a nice dress which at the time you could do for fifty dollars. She laughed as she told me how the Florida players got in the drive-in for free. So where do you think a college football player took his girl on a date? Yes indeed, on their first date Steve took her to the drive-in. He was a college football player for heaven’s sake;

Mrs. Spurrier said, “It is a gratifying thing to watch a new family come in and how easily those children become part of the family.” She explains how close all the children are. How the older ones help take the younger ones under their wings and make bathroom trips or concession stand runs. Of being such an active part of the program she comments, “I go to the field to the practice; I have three of my men on the field at the same time, my husband and my two sons. I get to watch them do what they do. It is amazing how fortunate I am.”

She still cooks big family meals on Sunday nights and her immediate family has a standing invitation. She even cooks her grandson’s favorite just for him, “Nolan’s Noodles.”

Jerri doesn’t see herself as particularly benevolent. She played down the fact she is on the

To which she replied, “My favorite thing about being a coach’s wife is the boys.” She went on to say, “All the wonderful different boys. Watching them grow up, change and learn. Going with them to hospital when they have surgery or attending their weddings after they have graduated” and gone onto to their careers. She and Coach Spurrier even visit former players when their children are born.

Watching the young lives they help to mold achieve their own successes are very gratifying for them both.

I needed to know if this woman who had helped her husband accomplish so much had a bucket list and was not disappointed by her answer. “I have never been bored. Steve always has something fun and exciting and challenging going on.” She spoke briefly of what it might be like when they decided to give it up for a life of retirement. Shaking her head as she wondered how she would enjoy slowing down and not being at the football field every Saturday, “But I know whatever he plans will be exciting.

If he wants to go to New Zealand and climb mountains or look at zebras, I know whatever he plans I will have fun.”

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Health & Wellness

1Gene, 5 Women, Multiple Choices

“I

found my lump in the shower.” It was a regular morning as Kathryn Robinson got ready for work at her home in Lexington. But this particular day, she found a lump in her breast while in the shower and her husband pushed her to call the doctor. At age 48, Kathryn was diagnosed at Lexington Medical Center with aggressive breast cancer in the course of a week.

The lump would lead to life-altering information for all of the women directly related to Kathryn Robinson – two sisters and two daughters. After her cancer diagnosis, Kathryn’s surgeon referred her to genetic counseling, where she ultimately learned that she carried a mutation in her BRCA2 gene. BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are tumor suppressor genes that are linked to hereditary breast and ovarian cancer susceptibility.

Kathryn started chemotherapy immediately, part one of a three-part treatment process. A lumpectomy and radiation would follow.

“It was during my chemotherapy that I was encouraged by my oncologist, Dr. Steve Madden, to be tested for the BRCA2 gene,” she said.

Kathryn’s aggressive cancer, coupled with the fact that she was

under the age of 50, made her case even more serious. Then, Kathryn tested positive for the mutation.

“Once I tested positive for the gene, I knew I had to get my ovaries out; it was all I could think about,” she said.

After finding the mutation, her plan for treatment changed dramatically. During a consultation with cancer genetic counselor Karen Brooks, Kathryn mapped her family tree and found some additional history of breast and stomach cancer. Instead of a lumpectomy followed by radiation, Kathryn would undergo a bilateral mastectomy and reconstruction. Six weeks later, she underwent hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, which is the removal of both ovaries and fallopian tubes. Kathryn opted for this more drastic ap-

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“Genetic testing in breast cancer patients helps determine what types of surgeries, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and possibly oophorectomy, would be appropriate, said Dr. Steve Madden, Medical Oncologist at Lexington Oncology, a Lexington Medical Center physician practice. “Patients with BRCA 1 or 2 mutations would be considered for prophylactic bilateral mastectomies and removal of their ovaries.”

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‘My daughters saw the brutal experience that I had while battling breast cancer, but they also saw that treatment works.’ proach as she found out that her BRCA2 mutation positive status placed her at an increased risk for developing a second breast cancer as well as ovarian cancer.

Karen Brooks, who is part of the multidisciplinary cancer team at Lexington Medical Center, helps patients assess their cancer history. Her job is to identify individuals who might benefit from genetic testing. Through the use of cancer sensitive personal and family history questions, Karen evaluates the likelihood of inherited cancer susceptibility. “I sometimes find that many individuals overestimate their cancer risk. In those instances, genetic counseling can certainly also be helpful,” she said.

“Genetic counseling is a process of educating patients and helping them choose the best course of

treatment at that point in their life,” she added.

According to Karen Brooks, there are more than 1,000 different mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Most mutations differ from family to family; however, one would expect to find the same mutation tracking within members of a given family. It is usually optimal to begin the genetic testing process on an individual who has or has had cancer. If cancer is indeed inherited within that family, an affected individual is the most likely person to show evidence of a detectable mutation in that family.

As Kathryn persevered, her thoughts often returned to her daughters and sisters. “The geneticist was great support and encouraged me to share my results with my family,” she said.

Health & Wellness “If you’ve had children, a hysterectomy is bearable, but losing your breasts is a very traumatic experience for a woman. I made the choice to go through this aggressive treatment because it will improve my chances for remission.”

Her two daughters were tested within one week of each other. Her oldest daughter, who tested negative, made the decision ahead of time that she would have a mastectomy and oophorectomy if she tested positive. But it was Kathryn’s youngest daughter who would test positive.

“At first, I didn’t want to be tested.

I didn’t want to know,” said Ashley Lyons, Kathryn’s youngest daughter, now 24 years old. “My first reaction was ‘Oh gosh, now I have to make this big decision that affects my entire life.’” Then, she met with Dr. Lynn Tucker, a general surgeon

with Lexington Surgical Associates at Lexington Medical Center. “She told me it was OK to wait and explore all the options. I realize I’m playing poker with my body and hoping that I win. But, because of my mom’s experience, I’ll have to make a decision sooner than later,” Ashley said.

Ashley is waiting to make a decision due to her age. She wants to have a family before she begins the preventative process. Her plan is to monitor her health closely with routine mammograms and breast ultrasounds that will start next year. She might also benefit from annual breast MRI.

“My daughters saw the brutal experience that I had while battling breast cancer, but they also saw that treatment works,” said Kathryn. “My sisters were a different story. One wanted to know and the other didn’t.”

Of the five women, four had genetic testing and three were positive for the BRCA2 gene. The probability of Kathryn’s sisters carrying the mutation was 50/50. Her youngest sister, Kelly Moore, tested positive.

Kelly initially thought, “Why would I want to know if I have the genetic makeup for cancer?” Through meetings with Dr. Brooks, the genetic counselor and a group of specialists at Lexington Medical Center, she gained an enormous amount of knowledge to make the best decision regarding her treatment. “My thoughts quickly changed to ‘why not’ be tested,” she said.

Kelly decided to undergo an oophorectomy coupled with frequent mammograms and routine checkups for preventive treatment. Kathryn and Kelly’s older sister doesn’t want to know if she carries the

gene mutation. She has not been tested and has not made any plans for testing in the future.

The knowledge and information gained from the genetic counselor and the physicians at Lexington Medical Center allowed each family member to make individualized treatment decisions. These risk-reduction strategies should help in keeping Kathryn’s relatives cancerfree.

Kathryn was diagnosed in August 2011 and tested positive for the BRCA2 gene that November. She underwent bi-lateral mastectomies in January 2012, a hysterectomy the following February and celebrated her two-year remission anniversary in July.

“Because my cancer was so aggressive, two years is a big deal,” she said.

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EYE HEALTH with Dr. John Payne

I

t has been said that the eye is the window to the soul. Dr. John Payne, an ophthalmologist at Palmetto Retina Center, thinks this sentiment should be ‘The eye is the window to the body and soul’. “Good vision is so critical for everyday activities and quality of life. Interestingly, many of my patients do not realize that the eye can provide a glimpse into their overall health. The key to treating most eye conditions is early evaluation and detection.”

Dr. Payne, a retina specialist, explains that the eye is similar to a camera and that the retina can be considered the “film” of the camera. It is a thin layer of nerve tissue lining the back of the eye that absorbs light and turns it into vision.

While many eye conditions can be corrected with the use of glasses or possibly even laser therapy, many retinal diseases require a different approach. Dr. Payne takes care of a myriad of conditions that can lead to vision loss: including diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and retinal detachments.

Diabetic retinopathy continues to be the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults in America and that trend is only getting worse, particularly in South Carolina. Diabetes, which is a condition where blood sugar levels are too high,

primarily affects the way blood circulates throughout the body. This ultimately leads to changes in the blood vessels in the retina. Vision loss often occurs when these blood vessel begin behaving abnormally as a result of years of high blood sugars. While vision can often be saved, best results are obtained when there is early detection and good control of blood pressure and blood sugar levels.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss in patients over the age of 65, and it has been estimated that approximately 8 million Americans have some form of the disease. As the name implies, the risk for developing AMD increases as you get older. AMD affects the macula, which is the area of the retina that is responsible for good central vision. Many patients with

AMD will complain of blurred or distorted central vision. Dr. Payne explains that there are two main types of AMD: dry and wet. And, while 90% of patients with AMD have the dry form, approximately 90% of AMD-related blindness comes from the wet form. Fortunately, there have been groundbreaking advances in the treatment of this condition over the past decade, which have helped to restore vision for many patients.

Early detection and treatment is imperative though.

Dr. Payne also frequently encounters patients with retinal detachments. Retinal detachments occur when there is a tear or hole in the retina that allows fluid to detach the retina from the wall of the eye.

Often times, patients will experience black spots in their vision, called floaters, or even flashes of

light. Retinal detachments can lead to rapid vision loss and early detection is critical in helping to maintain vision. With surgery, many patients are able to keep most, if not all, of their vision.

The clear overall message for these and other retinal causes of vision loss is the importance of early detection. Dr. Payne explains that medications and other interventions can often times prevent further vision loss. Additionally, he explains that eye doctors can often help identify complications from common conditions such as hypertension and diabetes before the patient has been diagnosed with these diseases. “No matter your age or underlying health issues, a good eye exam is an important component to maintaining a healthy quality of life.”

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Health & Wellness

SERVICE WITH A SMILE

B

olstered by the success of their first dental practice in Northeast Columbia, Dr. Angela and Andrew Schweiger brought their philosophy of providing personalized, comfortable and meticulous dental care to families in Lexington by opening South Lake Family Dental in early 2012. Since then, South Lake has grown to serve over two thousand active patients and has established itself as one of the leading dental practices in the Lexington community. This past summer, South Lake had the pleasure of introducing the newest member of its own family, Dr. Scott Wellman.

An accomplished practitioner, Wellman was initially attracted to the position by South Lake’s upstanding reputation in the world of dentistry.

Little did he know, it would ultimately be the local charm of the Carolinas that would draw him in for good.

“My family and I have enjoyed the southern hospitality since being here,” said Wellman. Since making the transition in June from Abingdon,

Va., Wellman and his family have felt warmly welcomed to their new home. “The people of South Carolina we’ve met so far have been very down-to-earth, kind people.”

It is with the same attitude of hospitality that Wellman has committed to serving each and every one of the patients that set foot in the South Lake office.

“Our staff tries to make sure every patient feels important, comfortable and that their needs have been taken care of when they come to us,” explained Wellman. “That’s something that we put an emphasis on and that stands apart from other dental offices.”

Wellman has backed that promise up with a dedication to go above and beyond since arriving –even if it takes him to places other dentists wouldn’t venture.

“We’ve had times where a patient has had an emergency over the weekend at a time where most dental offices wouldn’t see a patient,” said Wellman. “And we’ve made arrangements to come down to the office and meet with them

after hours, just so they didn’t have to suffer through the weekend.”

A husband and father of four children himself, Wellman also understands that running a family dental practice means taking especially intentional care of his youngest patients.

“Our staff is great with children; a lot of them are mothers themselves,” said Wellman. Wellman and staff members strive to ensure that every trip to the dentist is one that a child looks back on as a positive, special experience so they will look forward to their next. “They go out of their way to make the children feel comfortable and then to reward them for their good behavior afterward with a prize.”

In the years to come, Wellman hopes to continue introducing people to a new way of experiencing dentistry. “We’re a family practice,” said Wellman, inviting families throughout the community to pay a visit to the South Lake office. “We will do our best to make them a part of the family here, and hopefully make this the office they’ll go to the rest of their lives.”

‘Our staff tries to make sure every patient feels important, comfortable and that their needs have been taken care of when they come to us.’

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Mark Rouse Jr. Chapin Pet Lodge 1212 Beagle Run Road

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Pets

Pet OBESITY

by Jennifer W. Potts, DVM

W

e’ve all heard it: “Your pet could stand to lose a few pounds.”

There’s never an easy way to say it, but when 58.3% of cats and 52.5% of dogs are obese, we have the responsibility to help our pets lose weight.

It’s more than vanity pounds: obesity contributes to and complicates serious health issues such as arthritis, tracheal collapse, diabetes, hypertension, dermatitis, lower urinary tract disease, and fatty liver disease. Helping your pet achieve a normal weight can even extend its lifespan by 1-2 years!

What is normal? It’s all about the shape and feel of your pet. Body condition is measured on a scale of 1-9 or 10 depending on the scale, with 5 being ideal. An animal who is a perfect 5 has a tucked-up waist when viewed from the side and an hourglass shape when viewed

from the top, with ribs that can be easily felt. As pets gain weight they place their pounds around their waists, over their ribs, and finally, on their shoulders, rump and face.

Losing it! The advantage we have in helping our best friends with weight loss is that they don’t have the option of stopping for fast food on the way home unless we make that choice for them – they only eat what we give them, so we can make the healthy choices for them. Feeding them dog food only, and 20% less than what they’ve been fed in the past is a

There’s never an easy way to say it, but when 58.3% of cats and 52.5% of dogs are obese, we have the responsibility to help our pets lose weight. great start, but don’t stop there!

Replacing treats and table scraps with raw baby carrots, green beans and ice cubes will help cut down on your pet’s caloric intake. Also, a little exercise will go a long way – take your pet on a walk with you

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Pets

A PALACE Fit for a Pup

by Amy Pittsenbarger

L

eaving town for vacation is a wonderful thing, but having to leave behind your four-legged family members is not. I know that when I go out of town, I am constantly thinking about my pets and whether they are being well cared for. And it is equally as important to know that the people caring for my pets are responsible animal lovers. Which is why I am thrilled to know that places like the Chapin Pet Lodge exist! Jeff Murray is the owner of the Chapin Pet Lodge, a business that has been in his family since 1987 when his father, Allen Murray first opened.

They mostly board dogs and cats, but they also occasionally keep birds, turtles, fish, ferrets, and rabbits.

The Chapin Pet Lodge aims to feel as much like home as possible for the animals. “Owners are allowed to bring anything that will make the pet feel more at home.

Bed, blanket, toys, Dad’s old tennis shoe-what ever makes the pet happy is done,” explains Murray.

The Lodge has a total of 105 dog runs and 42 cat runs. “We pride ourselves on having some of the largest runs in the industry. Our dog runs and cat condos all have a window and include Heat / AC. Our dog runs are 64 square feet and our cat condos are an option of 32 square feet or 48 square feet,” says Murray. The Lodge sits on eight acres of fully fenced-in land with several individual play and run areas. Each animal has the option of a daily playtime that lasts around 20 minutes, as well as a ten-minute walk. If a client requests that their animal gets more exercise, the Lodge will “gladly do it for them,” Murray says.

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older pets that don’t get around as well as they used to? The Chapin Pet Lodge happily caters to those needs! “Chapin Pet Lodge [hosts] a number of pets with special foods and needs which cause no problem with our facility. We have a complete kitchen which we use on a daily basis for diets other than the normal foods. Green beans, carrots, peas…even cooked meals.” The Lodge is also close to local animal hospitals, so rest assured that your pets are well taken care of!

‘We pride ourselves on having some of the largest runs in the industry.’

A steady staff of ten employees runs the Chapin Pet Lodge. They have a groomer on staff, Tracy Simmons, with more than 20 years of experience and whom Murray describes as doing a “wonderful job with whatever breed she works with.” And about animals with special dietary restrictions or

There is a two-day minimum charge year-round at the Chapin Pet Lodge and a five-day minimum charge during the weeks of July 4th, Thanksgiving, and Christ-

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mas. For more information on the Lodge, call them at (803) 345-5082 or visit them online at chapinpetlodge.com. Better yet, why not stop by and visit their facilities? They

encourage unannounced visits!

They are open Monday-Saturday from 8-6 and Sunday from 1-6.

Monday - “We have a open door policy…so anyone that wishes may come in and take a tour of our entire facility,” explains Murray. So you can take your next vacation knowing that your pets are in excellent hands!

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43

A Personal Note

T

his year is going to be a momentous one. So many changes are taking place in our home.

Trey is visiting colleges this fall and making decisions about his future. He had a wonderful summer and a life changing experience with the award winning organization of Palmetto Boys State. He returned home with a new sense of community responsibility and has just learned he will have the opportunity to return as a junior counselor at next year’s Palmetto Boys State. I pray for guidance every day as my son embarks upon the new chapter of his life. I pray that God will surround him with good friends and Godly friends. I pray that God has his hand upon the woman Trey will chose as his life partner at some point in the future. I pray this for all of my children. I pray it with more fervor as Trey approaches the next four years of his life! It is hard to pull back. He will be my son forever and always, and I am his mother forever and always. I pray that I can let go graciously and lovingly.

Trey

Abby is growing ever more independent with each day. It is wonderful how strong and confident she has become. There are things about herself that she is not happy about, however she is very at peace with who she is in her faith and in the way she deals with others. She is an amazing young woman who I am happy to have a few more years to nurture. She is also focusing on her future and what she wants out of life. She is such a good friend, always there to offer a helpful ear and words of wisdom to someone in need. I pray that Abby will always look to her heavenly father for guidance, especially when she thinks mom and dad don’t know what they are talking about, as teenagers often do.

Colton the Encourager is doing what Colton does. Taking fifth grade head on, he is not my child who loves school. He is, however, my child who loves people. So at this moment almost time for interims I can say with confidence Colton will be fine this year. He has great teachers, is excited about being invited to audition for the Elementary Honors Choir, and his newest venture is Boys Run Hard. I am really proud of what a great big brother Colton has become. He worries about Ryan like a little parent.

He said “Mom, if I am sick, who will walk Ryan to class?” Oh my cup runneth over. Isn’t it gratifying as a parent when they love each other so? My prayer for Colton is that God will make me the mother Colton needs and deserves, that I am able to freely give Colton all the encouragement that he gives so generously to others. He is such a joy!

Abby

Ryan is just my little Rhino. He loves first grade. Like a little sponge, he absorbs every piece of information that he is given and repeats it at the sweetest times. Recently one of Trey’s friends was sleeping over.

Ryan says to Jordan, “Did you know that if you sweat a lot you won’t have to potty? The urine comes out of our pores when our body needs it.” My mouth is hanging on the floor when Jordan looks over at me in shock (he is in the sports medicine program at WKHS.) “Ms. Lori, how does he know that? Who told him that?”

Ryan says, “I don’t know who told me. I just know.” We just laughed. The things that he comes up with amaze me. My prayer for Ryan is that he will always be so self-assured. That the world won’t break him down and disrupt the flow of his precious little “outside the box thinking.” I pray for all my childrenthat they would grow in the knowledge of who they truly are; who we all are- children of the Most High- Blessed and Highly Favored.

Colton

May we all bless and affirm our children daily. They are our hope that the world will be a place people of the future want to live!

1 Peter 4:8-10 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.

God Bless,

Lori Samples Duncan

Ryan 44

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