Lexington Woman Volume 9 No. 2 2015

VOL 9, NO 2

COMPLIMENTARY

CELEBRATING, MOTIVATING, AND EDUCATING WOMEN TM

Real

Rita, Ava and Sullivan - Ambassadors of

HAPPINESS Cayce, Chapin, Lexington, West Columbia, & White Knoll

In this Issue TM

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Lori Samples Duncan (loriduncan86@gmail.com)

MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES

Cathy Williams (info@lexingtonwomanonline.com)

From the Editor CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Ashby Jones Carol Ryall Jennifer W. Potts Kimberly Richardson Lori Samples Duncan Patti McGrath Stephanie Y. Vokral

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Lindsey Duncan woman2womanlindsey@gmail.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

Clark Berry Photography Tanya Waller Photography

2 The Real Coaches Wives of South Carolina

21 The Coaches, Megan & Charles

Assey

Events

22 WKHS athletes Sign Scholarships

Pets

23 Structure is The Name of The Game for Stephanie Hucks!

3 What’s Happening?

4 Pet Food Facts & Myths

25 Our GAMECOCK Family!

Lets Talk!

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Female Engineer, Bethany Fralick

26 The Love of Coaching

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Monograms, Sewing and Quilts!

Oh My!

Professional

28 Shop at Todd & Moore!

7 WKES Nurse Recieves Statewide Honor & WKHS Announces Miss Timberwolf 2015 9 RBHS Athletes Sign Scholarships & WKHS Counselor Receives State- wide Honor 10 Ignore That Groundhog! Spring IS Coming!

13 Greater Lexington Chamber Honors Top Community Businesses, Professionals

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

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or omissions. No part of this book may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. © 2014

14 LHS Athletes Sign Scholarships 16 The Ashby Chronicle: I Remember You 17

PHMS Sparklers Dance Team Celebrates a First Place Win & PHS Colt Bedenbaugh Signs at Union College!

30 Rita, Ava, & Sullivan - Ambassadors of Happiness 32 Blessed to be a Single Woman

Health & Wellness

35 Fight Like a Super Girl

11 LHS Crowns 2015 Miss Wildcat

Find us on facebook!

29 Preparing For The Unthinkable

18 History, Entertainment, Education-

Presented by Town Theatre

37 I Don’t Have Clients; I Have Friends

39 A Woman with Heart 41 Meet Janet Paul 42 Jill Libbey - Making a Difference in The Lives of Others

Business & Web Directory 44 Contact our Advertisers

Personal Note

45 Oh, the Memories!

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From The Editor

W

hat another fun issue of Lexington Woman Magazine!

The Real Coaches’ Wives of South Carolina was inspired by an issue we did a few years ago. At that time we interviewed the football coaches’ wives. I have long wanted to talk to the Baseball wives, but baseball in Lexington seems to last all year! It was hard getting everyone together. However, with the exception of one, all of our coaches’ wives responded and are featured in this issue of Lexington Woman Magazine. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as we enjoyed creating it.

From the beginning of Lexington Woman’s existence we have honored Survivors. In fact, this year marks the 8th year of Fight Like a Girl from some of our favorite survivors. We hope you enjoy reading about this event, and would love to see you there. It is always a fun party for a great cause.

We always try to bring you the best of the best businesses in Lexington County and this issue is no exception with features on the Lexington Chamber’s Award-Winning members, as well as articles on several outstanding businesses in the area. I never get tired of reading about someone who is excellent at what they do and how they got there.

Check out our article on therapy dogs. The entire concept is so interesting. We hope to bring you more on this subject in the future.

I hope you are enjoying the beginning of Spring. Lexington is a wonderful place to be this time of year.

Until we meet again, Your friend,

Lori Samples Duncan

Isaiah 55:9

For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Events

What’s Happening in Lexington?

March for Meals Month March 2015

Lexington County Recreation and Aging Commission will be participating in March for Meals month. The month long campaign’s purpose is to focus attention on the issue of senior hunger and to rally the support of the local community in supporting their Meals on Wheels program. Businesses and individuals will be showing support with our Blue Bow campaign and by offering special incentives to customers to demonstrate their support of Meals on Wheels. For more details on what’s happening and how you can get involved go to www.lcrac.com.

Other Activities for the month include: · Community Champions Week (March 16-20) Community leaders and business people deliver meals to seniors · March Madness for Meals Basketball Tournament@ Lexington Leisure Center ( March 14, 9-12:30) · March for Meals Tennis Tournament @ Cayce Tennis and Fitness Center (March 21, 10- 2) · Applebee’s’ Flapjack Fundraiser (March 28, 7:30 -10) purchase tickets @ www.lcrac.com or call 356-5111

Educational Workforce Development AWARENESS Program March 12, 2015 - June 29, 2015 River Bluff High School Dr. Luke Clamp, Principal 320 Corley Mill Road Lexington, SC 29072 (803)821-0700 Got Trained Workers? We Do! Occupational Credential Program students are trained in job skills and employable soft skills.

OCP is connecting trained workers and local businesses. The mission of the OCP of Lexington School District 1 is to prepare students to be career ready and to live independently. These students experience: Social and soft skills training Real life application of academic skills Community-based on the job training and shadowing Hands-on vocational training Students receive four years of job skills training while in high school.

Students are experienced in a variety of job settings in the local community and on the school campus.

Students visit local businesses and receive on the job training.

Pelion High School Hosts Junior Miss Panther Pageant Friday, March 27, 2015 to begin 7:00 pm Pelion High School Little Theatre

Make plans to attend the Junior Miss Panther Pageant.

There will be an opening dance number, introduction of the contestants, formal wear and crowning. Program books will be available for $5.00.

Tickets in advance are $5.00 from the PHS Student Council or $7.00 at the door.

SPECIAL NEEDS COMMUNITY DAY - Come Meet & Greet Local Public Safety Saturday, March 28, 2015 from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm Virginia Hylton Park, 111 Maiden Lane, Lexington, SC

of Horticulture; Help maintain a Colonial Herb Garden on the grounds of the Lexington County Museume. There will be a professional herbalists to educate the Lexington Community on the many uses of herbs for cooking, growing, crafting and medicinal purposes.

White Knoll Patriot Run Saturday, April 18th 2015 Registration starts at 7:00am Race begins at 8:30am White Knoll High School 5643 Platt Springs Road

Fee is $25.00 for basic registration before March 25, 2015 or $30.00 after March 25, 2015 $35.00 for basic registration with tshirt before March 25, 2105 or 40.00 after March 25, 2015

Lexington Police Department South Carolina Highway Patrol Lexington County Sheriff ’s Department Lexington County Fire Services Lexington County Communications Lexington County EMS This event has been organized to provide a familiarity and understanding of first responders, their vehicles, and the equipment that they use.

Copart Open House April 21, 2015, 11:00 am - 3:00 pm Copart, 120 Pine Plain Rd, Gaston, SC 29053

Many of the organizations and businesses that serve the special needs community in the Midlands will also be participating in this event.

Lexington, SC 29073

Open House with Copart Leadership, Food, Drink, and Door Prizes

It’s All About Herbs Festival Saturday, April 11 from 9 am to 4 pm Lexington County Museum, 231 Fox Street, Lexington SC *Free Admission *Plant sale with numerous varieties of herbs and other plants grown especially for our festival *Three limited seating, $5 ticketed educational seminars: 1. Donna ( Bundrick) Griffin, marketing/ PR for Rawl Farms will present a cooking demonstration. 2. Rudy Mancke, a well-known SC naturalist will speak. The topic will be announced at a later date. 3.

Barbara Whittaker will provide a grilling pizza with herbs demonstration. *A special event will be our “TEA TIME”, a $15 ticketed, limited seating event featuring teas and delicacies will be presented by our members. *A silent auction fundraiser to support our causes *Food vendors offering special yummy and delicious foods for the whole family * An array of herb related/natural items will be available for sale by local vendors * The Fox House will be open for viewing all day and the museum will provide a free tour at 3 p.m.

Proceeds from the festival: Provide a scholarship for a Lexington County student for an education in the field

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PET FOOD FACTS and MYTHS

by Jennifer W. Potts, DVM

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here’s one thing we do with our pets every day that helps strengthen the bond between us: we feed them. There isn’t much that is as satisfying as setting a bowl of food down before a happy, thankful dog or cat. However, many dog food companies are making us question what we’re actually feeding our furry loved ones. Is corn safe for my dog? Could she be allergic to gluten? What the heck is animal by-product?!

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Corn has been claimed by some dog food companies to be of poor nutritional value as well as a cause of allergies. In reality, corn makes a great source of protein, carbohydrates, and the essential fatty acid, linolenic acid, which is required in the diets of both dogs and cats.

It also brings antioxidants to the table such as Vitamin E and beta-carotene. As far as allergies are concerned, 90% of dogs are allergic to things in their environment such as pollen from trees and weeds, fleas, and storage mites. The 10% that are allergic to food are most commonly allergic to animal

protein such as beef, chicken, and lamb. That’s not to say that there are not dogs with corn allergies; they are simply more uncommon.

On the topic of allergies, some dog foods claim that a grain-free or gluten-free diet is what pets need to be happy and healthy. In reality, only 1% of dogs are allergic to grains, and gluten-induced enteropathy (otherwise known as Celiac disease) is extremely rare in dogs and mostly seen in the Irish Setter breed, making the medical need for a gluten-free diet very small.

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Real Women

Having covered the topic of plants in pet food, we should move on to Animal By-Product. Some of the commercials for pet food will have you believe that by-product is an inferior product or the waste parts of the animal. The true definition of a by-product is any ingredient that is produced or left over when some other product or ingredient is made. That means the gravy we make after the Thanksgiving turkey comes out of the oven is a by-product. In dog food, this pertains to clean sources of protein, such as the liver and kidneys, which are by-product after

the muscle meat has been used for other things. By-product is NOT feathers, hooves, hide, or intestinal contents.

The most important thing to remember when shopping for dog food is to find the label that says the food meets the guidelines set by the American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). This guarantees quality ingredients were used in the making of the food. In the end, your pet doesn’t know if she’s being fed a $30 or $70 bag of dog food: she just knows that you’re feeding her and that you love her.

Let’s Talk Pets

Female Engineer

Bethany Fralick By: Patti McGrath

I Bethany Fralick Dr. Bethany Fralick, Assistant Professor of Engineering at the University of South Carolina Aiken, has enjoyed STEM since a young age and is now teaching students in pre-engineering courses. “During grade school, I really enjoyed my math classes.

Math just seemed to make sense to me; I could figure out a process and apply a method to solving problems well,” she recalls. “I enjoyed my sciences courses as well. I appreciated methods and processes in learning more than memorizing dates and words. I still do not excel in memorization, but enjoy the idea of solving a problem with my knowledge and skills gained through experience. Middle school was the time when I developed my appreciation for math and science; I just ‘got it’ when it came to these classes.”

“My father introduced me to science, math, and engineering. Being the oldest of three children, a lot of responsibility was placed on me like helping with indoor and outdoor chores while maintaining good grades.

Through this responsibility to our family life, I became very interested in hands-on tasks,” Dr. Fralick explains. “I also never played with traditional girl toys.

My parents always gave me

f you haven’t heard the term STEM in the news recently, chances are you will in the very near future. STEM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, and employers are looking for people with skills in these areas. In fact, 62% of jobs today require STEM skills, but South Carolina isn’t producing enough college educated workers to fill the projected STEM jobs over the next decade. The state particularly needs females in these positions. The ratio of women in STEM fields is significantly lower than that of men. interactive, building type toys.

I loved Legos and erector sets as a child. Unbeknownst to my parents’ years ago, I would take apart appliances in our home just to see how they worked.

Most of the time I successfully put them back together; a few items were replaced in less than working order. This love for interactive toys and problem solving as a child was a direct result of my home environment and flourished into a professional appreciation for engineering.”

Getting girls interested in science and math at a young age, and encouraging them to pursue these interests, may help them choose STEM careers as they grow older. But, some parents may wonder, why STEM subjects are so important to students?

“STEM subjects directly affect everyday life. These subjects are very important for students to not only master, but appreciate because they impact how we live,” Dr. Fralick states. “A strong foundation in STEM enables students to excel in successful and growing fields in industry. Many businesses are thriving due to their emphasis on problem solving for everyday life. The STEM subjects best prepare us for this type of career and advancement.”

Women are under-represented in engineering as men dominate the field. This didn’t negatively affect Dr. Fralick’s career choice.

“I love the process of engineering,” says Dr. Fralick. “All types of engineering and courses in engineering revolve around learning and applying knowledge to solve a problem. No two problems are the same; therefore, engineers must retain a large amount of knowledge and apply parts of it at different times and in varying order. I truly enjoy the feeling of victory after solving a problem; every time it feels like I have learned something new.

This idea that I will always learn something new is what makes my job my passion. I enjoy teaching students how to apply knowledge in different ways to be successful.”

Dr. Fralick currently teaches pre-engineering courses which cater to six main fields of engineering: biomedical, chemical, civil, computer, electrical, and mechanical. “I hope students leave my courses with an appreciation for the process. I hope they understand no two problems they will ever face as engineers will be the same and that they will be able to approach these problems head-on,” she states. “I strive to provide students with the tools necessary for success; these tools

can be anything from knowledge and visual understanding to a set of guidelines and a sense of ethical responsibility. I encourage my students to think about the process of getting from the start to the end and embrace the uniqueness of each individual solution. Engineering is not cookie-cutter. The students’ success depends on their abilities to start, fail, and restart until the end is reached. They must remember to be resilient and have faith in the process I try to teach them every day.”

Currently, the USC Aiken Engineering program is for the student’s first two years, then they would transfer to USC in Columbia. However, a four year degree in Engineering is in the process of being approved by regulatory and accreditation committees.

USC Aiken anticipates being able to offer a four year bachelor degree in industrial process engineering in the fall of 2015.

As the demand for careers in STEM rises in South Carolina, let’s hope the state can provide qualified, educated workers so the jobs stay with South Carolinians – especially with the women in South Carolina.

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Let’s Talk

Monograms, Sewing and Quilts! Oh my!

By Carol Ryall Photography by Lindsey Duncan

M

any of us make resolutions to spend more time on the things we enjoy doing, but life happens and time slips away. One way to be sure you make time for yourself is to register for a class which meets

regularly. If you love sewing, or want to learn; if an embroidery machine is your favorite toy, or you got one for Christmas and don’t know what to do with it; if you love to quilt, but never seem to find the time, check out one of the newer businesses in town, Sew Suite Studio, located at 120 Ellis Avenue (where Pine Press Printing was before they moved next door.)

Becky Robinson, the personable owner, will make you welcome, show you around and help you decide on your next project.

Product offerings include Designs in Machine Embroidery Snap Hoops, Perfect Alignment tools, and Great Notions designs. Top of the line Madeira and Aurifil Threads, and Perfect Embroidery Professional Digitizing Software are also included. Fabric lines include Moda Bake Shop precuts, Riley Blake, Kaffe Fassett and Amy Butler.

Sew Suite’s mission is to share the love of sewing with the next generation. Group and private classes are available to teach you how to sew, how to use your embroidery machine, even how to create your own embroidery designs. Machine Embroidery classes feature different projects each month with a focus of learning a new skill or technique. Another possibility is the Block of the Month Class, teaching you how to create a quilt block design on your laptop. Classes are also available for youngsters, nine to fifteen, and watch for Summer Camps coming in June. In March, Becky is offering a mini-workshop on the Cameo Silhouette Cutting Machine and in May, an all day workshop will be offered in conjunction with the American Sewing Guild, which will create a quilted landscape wall hanging. Other classes on the slate are monogramming 101 and T-Shirt Quilt know-how.

The Beginning/Intermediate Sewing Class for adults allows you to start where you are and learn at your own pace. A Punch card system enables you to skip classes as your schedule requires. Designed for women with a full schedule, but a desire to learn and have a creative outlet, you can learn to quilt, sew your own clothing, home décor, or whatever else you need or want to make. Classes are limited to six individuals, and you may bring your own machine or rent at the Studio. Stay

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current with all class offerings at www.sewsuitestudio.com.

Need to upgrade you sewing machine? Sew Suite Studio offers industrial grade JUKI home sewing machines, air-threading sergers and a line of professional quilting machines.

One reason Sew Suite Studio has the skill in teaching machine embroidery, is because they DO machine embroidery - offering another whole side to this business. Becky does custom monogramming and embroidered Spirit Wear for athletic teams, dance troupes, bands, choirs, businesses – any group who wants their logo on hats, jackets, shirts, tote bags or whatever. Her Tajima commercial embroidery machine even has a sequin attachment to really make these designs sparkle. She can also digitize your logo or design for you and she is happy to do very small orders (which many other embroidery companies won’t do.)

Becky explained, “I love to teach and share the love of sewing. I want to keep it from becoming a disappearing art.” She is working with local schools to create a quilting class that incorporates both math and geometry.

From high quality products, to specialized training and attentive, personalized service, Sew Suite Studio is your trusted source for embroidery services, education and supplies!

Go by to meet Becky sometime soon. Tell her Lexington Woman sent you!

Youth summer sewing camps June 9-12; June 23-26; July 14-17; see website for details:

www.sewsuitestudio.com Dont forget to “LIKE” us on Facebook! www.facebook.com/sewsuitestudio

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Sequin-stitched monograms and designs – sets us apart!

JUKI sewing and quilting machines

Let’s Talk

White Knoll Elementary School Nurse receives statewide honor

LEXINGTON, S.C. — White Knoll Elementary School Nurse and 2014 Lexington One School Nurse of the Year Amy Wood was named the 2015 South Carolina School Nurse (RN) of the Year.

The South Carolina School Nurse (RN) of the Year Award is presented annually by the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control and the S.C. Department of Education to publicly recognize the outstanding contributions of a Registered Nurse (RN) providing school health services in our state.

Wood joined the White Knoll Elementary staff eight years ago. She previously worked as a registered nurse in the stroke unit at Lexington Medical Center. Wood earned a Bachelor of Arts in theatre from Winthrop University and an Associate degree in nursing from Midlands Technical College.

Wood promotes health and safety, intervenes in actual and potential health problems, and provides case management services for more than 700 students in her school.

She serves as the president of the South Carolina Association of School Nurses.

Amy Wood, RN

WKHS announces

Miss Timberwolf 2015 White Knoll High crowns Kames Davis Miss Timberwolf 2015.

The Miss Timberwolf court includes Miss Senior Alexia Cooper, Miss Junior Demetira Henderson, Miss Sophomore Kara Murphy and Miss Freshman Sarah Terry.

Kames Davis www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Let’s Talk

RBHS athletes sign scholarships

River Bluff High Senior Ben Gross signs to play soccer at Erskine College, Senior Kim Jergenson signs to play soccer at USC Aiken, Senior Whitt Warner signs to play football at North Greenville University and Senior Mark Hoog signs to play soccer at Newberry College. Joining them for the signings include (back) David Gross, Brad Jergenson, Dale Warner, John Hoog, (middle) Alison Gross, Leah Jergenson, Melisa Warner and Kristin Hoog.

WKHS Counselor receives statewide honor LEXINGTON, S.C. — The Palmetto State School Counselor Association (PSSCA) named White Knoll High Director of Counseling and Advisement Crissy Roddy the South Carolina High School Counselor of the Year.

The award recognizes Roddy for her outstanding service and contributions to the field of school counseling. Candidates for the award are nominated by other school counselors and submit an application and letters of recommendation.

Roddy started her career in Lexington One 11 years ago and is in her second year at White Knoll High.

Roddy earned a Bachelor of Arts in psychology, a Master of Education degree in school counseling, an Educational Specialist degree in school counseling and a Doctor of Philosophy in counselor education and supervision from the University of South Carolina.

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Ignore that Groundhog!

By Carol A. Ryall Photography by Robert Patrick Image Design

Spring IS Coming!

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egardless of what the Groundhog might have said, here in the sunny South, spring will be upon us before we know it. The blossoms of Bradford Pears weaving their white lace against the blue skies, the fragrance of wisteria wafting through an open window, the velvet green of grass in the yards again are all positive, joyful experiences. After the gray and cold of winter, it is hard not to respond with a smile.

If you want your yard to reflect the exuberance of spring, it takes planning, planting and work to get it there. The Grounds Guys of the Midlands, a franchise owned by Merilee and Norman Landano, is located in Batesburg but serves North Augusta, Aiken, Lexington and Columbia. They are available to help you with any or all of your landscaping needs for the spring.

Norman Landano suggested that now is the time to get out and start working in the yard to get it ready for spring growth.

The Grounds Guys are happy to come out and do a lawn analysis of your yard. They will make note of how much light your yard receives, what type of grass you have and check to see how healthy your lawn is, looking for signs of fungus or insect infestation. They will check the pH level and phosphate levels in your

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soil. They will take soil samples and send them off to Clemson University Extension Service to learn what types of nutrients are called for. With this information, they will be able to make recommendations as to what your lawn needs to be its healthiest during the coming seasons. You can then decide how much of that you can handle on your own and how much you want to leave to the professionals.

March is an excellent time to aerate your lawn, to break up the soil so that water and nutrients can get to the roots for stronger healthier grass. Especially if you ever drive cars over your lawn, that weight can compact the ground to the point that even water has a hard time getting through it. The Grounds Guys have a machine especially designed to run over the yard and loosen plugs of turf to combat

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this problem. Now is also a good time to install a sprinkler or irrigation system in the lawn so that during the blistering months of summer, your yard won’t be dying of thirst.

Late February is the ideal time to prune your roses and crepe myrtles back so they will branch out with beautiful new growth and blooms. March is a good time to rake out the mulch in your flower beds, spray with a pre-emergent weed killer, replace the mulch and add fresh new mulch on the top to keep your beds looking their best. Norman also suggested that, if you didn’t plant bulbs in the Fall, you can still plant them in February for Spring blooms.

He stated that most shrubs can be planted now, as well.

If you are putting in a new lawn, Norman recommends Zoysia grass as the best for most

conditions. It grows well in both sunny and shady spots. However, he doesn’t suggest mixing types of grass, as they need differing amounts of water and/or fertilizer. Most subdivisions are planted with Bermuda, although a good many lawns may be Centipede.

Whatever you already have is what you should use to sod bare spots or fill in areas that are sparse.

In today’s busy world, many people consider yard work relaxing.

If you don’t happen to be one of those people, hiring The Grounds Guys is a great opportunity to have a beautiful lawn without all the labor. Their employees will be friendly, uniformed, speak English and as frequently as possible, will be military veterans.

Call them today (803 657-6307 or 877 925-5296) to set up an appointment for your free lawn assessment.

Lets Talk

LHS Crowns

2015 Miss Wildcat

Lexington High announces the newly crowned 2015 Miss Wildcat and her court. The winners include (L-R) Miss Sophomore Alexis Almeida, Miss Senior Logan Martin, Miss Wildcat Kelsi Fringer, Miss Junior Peri Jayne Skipper and Miss Freshman Mary Katherine Waters.

SPRING SPECIAL:

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Greater Lexington Chamber HONORS Top Community Businesses, Professional

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ebruary 19, 2015 – LEXINGTON, SC – The Greater Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center honored four of its accomplished members and one of its professional staff members at its Chamber Awards Night Thursday evening at the Lexington Municipal Complex.

This annual ceremony, presented

by Southern First Bank, allows Chamber members to nominate their fellow members to be recognized because of their outstanding and admirable leadership within the business community and the community at large.

Chris Petty, wealth advisor at Stratos Wealth Partners, received the Young Professional of the Year award. Petty has not only served his community as a volunteer for the Boy Scouts of America and the current president of the Citadel Alumni Association’s Greater Columbia Chapter, but also his country as a former captain in the United States Army.

Floor Boys was named Small Business of the Year. Owner Brian Peed has 18 years of flooring experienced and served in the Navy for four years. When he is not working for his customers in Lexington, Peed can be found using his expertise to complete wheelchair ramps and other service projects in the community or on mission trips.

Comporium earned the Large Business of the Year award. For over 100 years, Comporium has provided communications services to customers in Lexington County.

Beyond providing Lexington’s public access channel and internet service provider for Lexington School District One and Lexington County Government, Comporium is major supporter of many community organizations and has numerous employees that are actively involved in local groups.

Mike Anderson, real estate professional at Experienced Real Estate Group, was recognized for his volunteerism and advocacy for the Chamber with the Ambassador

of the Year award. Anderson has worked in the real estate business for 8 years and is a long-time resident of Lexington County.

Haylee Anderson, membership investments and engagement manager at the Greater Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, was honored with the coveted Mike Till Award. This award is given to an individual who best exemplifies the characteristics of Mike Till – friendliness, perseverance and dedication to the Lexington community. Anderson has been with the Chamber for 6 years and helped the organization reach 1,000 members this year, a goal that Till envisioned during his lifetime.

“It’s great to see the names of this year’s winners added amongst so many accomplished chamber award recipients through the years,” said Randy Halfacre, Chamber President/CEO. “To be selected and recognized by their peers shows that they are not only accomplished and successful, but also respected.”

Chris Petty

Haylee Anderson

Mike Anderson

Brian Peed, owner of Floorboys

The 2015 Chamber Awards Night is sponsored by Southern First Bank, Wells Fargo, AllSouth Federal Credit Union, Lexington Medical Center, First Community Bank, First Citizens Bank, BB&T and Michelin North America, Inc. For information about future events hosted by the Chamber, including its annual oyster roast and spring golf tournament, visit www.lexingtonsc.org.

The Greater Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center strengthens and promotes economic prosperity, public policy, quality of life and workforce development

Comporium in the greater Lexington community and MidState Chambers Coalition region. A nonprofit, 501 (c) 6 organization, the GLC&VC represents over 1,000 businesses

and more than 30,000 employees.

To learn more about the benefits of becoming a Chamber member, visit www.lexingtonsc.org. www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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LHS athletes sign scholarships

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Lexington High Senior Jordan Carr signs to play football at Newberry College. Joining him for the signing include (back) LHS Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Josh Stepp, (front) Joanne Carr and Bart Carr.

Lexington High Senior Patrick Martin signs to play football at North Greenville University. Joining him for the signing include (back) LHS Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Josh Stepp, (front) Kenny Martin and Esther Ilderton.

Lexington High Senior Liam Ronan signs to play football at Wofford College. Joining him for the signing are (back) LHS Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Josh Stepp, (front) George Ronan and Melanie Ronan.

Lexington High Senior Brooks Winchester signs to play football at Carson-Newman University in Jefferson City, Tennessee.

Joining him for the signing are (back) LHS Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Josh Stepp, (front) Joey Winchester and Amy McElrath.

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photo by Clark Berry Photography

THE ASHBY CHRONICLE:

I Remember You ylists

Ashby Jones

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By Ashby Jones

ast winter I found myself at a dinner party with two old friends. We had attended middle school and high school together, and were surprised to find all three of us had somehow become adults. A

flurry of memories surfaced – the football games, the padlocks on our lockers, riding in the cars with our parents to school events, trying to stay out of trouble. Or, if we were in trouble, trying to minimize the event so we could congregate once more next weekend. We marveled at how stupid we were, how reckless we were, and how we have suddenly become our rigid (and uncool) parents.

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It is unnerving to reconnect with old friends sometimes. In your mind you have boxed the person into a neat storyline, a category of events in your past.

She was the person who taught the cheerleading tryout dance.

He shared his pretzels before Algebra II. She used a man’s brand of hairspray, because it was enormously powerful, preserving her perfect flower-bangs. He played basketball and football and once

. . . the part of Ebenezer Scrooge in the school play.

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And now, the categories and boxes of memory are shattered, so as to allow old friends to grow up. She is an elegant and witty mother of four. He convinced his neighbors to elect him to an actual political office.

Realizing no one is exactly the same as they were in high

school is liberating. Because that means you got to grow up too!

Maybe they will allow you to demonstrate how incredibly laid back you have become, or they will notice that you have fewer issues with authority. They will be aware that your hair- trigger temper has weakened over time and that the good qualities in you have only improved.

We don’t have time for dinner

with all of our childhood friends.

We will have to make do with surprise encounters in Food Lion and complimenting one another’s children on Facebook. But, these short conversations can be so meaningful if we approach them with the same simple understanding: Everyone got to grow up. Even you.

Let’s Talk

The Pleasant Hill Middle Sparklers Dance Team celebrates a first-place win in the jazz category in the middle school division at the Capital City Dance Team Championship. The competition was held January 24, at Dutch Fork High School and was open to middle and high school teams from across the Southeast. Jennifer Stevens coaches the PHMS dance team.

Pelion High Senior Colt Bedenbaugh signs to play football at Union College in Barbourville, Kentucky. Joining him for the signing includes (back) PHS Principal Clark Cooper, PHS Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Ben Freeman, PHS Offensive Line Coach Assistant William Fox, (front) Tracy Bedenbaugh and Susan Elemore.

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Lets Talk

Let’s Talk

History, Entertainment, Education -

Presented by Town Theatre

By Carol A. Ryall

W

hen you have been around since 1919, through wars, depressions, good times and bad, and your doors are still open and people still love what you do…you must be doing something right! That’s the fortunate position that Town Theatre holds in the Midlands community.

The unique Town Theatre building, located at 1012 Sumter Street in downtown Columbia, SC, was constructed in 1924. It is the oldest community theatre building in continuous use in the United States, is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and houses one of the largest theatre auditoriums in the area.

Sandra Willis, Executive Director of the Theatre, stated unequivocally, “Our volunteers, on stage and off, are the lifeblood of the Theatre.

Without them and their support, we couldn’t begin to do all the things we do. The Theatre draws performers and technicians from all over the Midlands. Newcomers are always welcomed. Every show has open auditions with the dates and information posted on our website, www.towntheatre.com.” If you have no desire to be on-stage but would like to be a part of the crew, there are volunteers doing everything from costuming, lighting, sound, building sets, collecting props, working box office and ushering. They have a spot for everyone and encourage you to join them.

To give you an idea of the variety and caliber of shows you can see at Town Theatre, this season the Theatre has already presented Oklahoma; White Christmas; Always, Patsy Cline and Driving Miss Daisy. Coming up March 6 -21 is the Columbia premiere of the play Sugar (Based on the Screenplay Some Like It Hot by Billy Wilder and I.A.L. Diamond), to be followed in May by Spamalot.

This hilarious musical, lovingly ripped-off from the film Monty Python and the Holy Grail, begins in Camelot and ends with a royal wedding. (This is also known as the show that insults almost everyone!) July 10 - 26, Town Theatre will be presenting the Midlands community theatre premiere performance of Mary Poppins! They are bringing in a professional flying company to help with the staging, so you can expect to see Bert tap-dancing upside-down on the ceiling, and Mary Poppins and her umbrella flying across the stage! It’s no wonder Town Theatre brings

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

in close to 30,000 theatre patrons of all ages, the largest regular audience of any cultural performing organization in Columbia.

Town Theatre also offers drama classes for young people from kindergarten through high school. The current spring class will be presenting Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, Kids, March 27 – 29th.

These classes are extremely popular, enrollment is first come, first served and they usually fill up quickly. Summer Camps are available for youth 5 through 18, as well as a selection of tap dancing classes for all ages. The entire class schedule and all registration information are available on the www.towntheatre.com website.

The most economical way to enjoy the pro-

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ductions at Town Theatre is to buy a Season’s Membership. This gives you one ticket to each season show (at $16.00 per ticket this is one of the best buys in town!) Discounted memberships for seniors, Military, Students and youth under 17 are also available. If you or your company would like to make a contribution or sponsor a particular production, there are certainly opportunities available for that as well.

If you have never been to Town Theatre, you really need to treat yourself to a wonderful night at the Theatre. The level of talent in the Midlands is amazing, and some of the best can be found on the stage of Town Theatre.

Make your plans now to be in the audience for Sugar, Spamalot or Mary Poppins.

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Let’s Talk

The Coaches, Megan and Charles Assey

By Carol Ryall Photography by Tanya Waller

M

egan Assey first met her husband, White Knoll’s Head Baseball Coach, Charles Assey, at Charleston Southern University where they were both on the Coaching staff. They started out as good friends. She says she wasn’t initially attracted to him romantically, “…but, as our friendship grew, I began to see that we had similar interests outside of sports. Charles quickly became the most loyal and honest friend I’d ever had; someone I looked forward to sharing the ups and downs of my days with. I realized Charles had a real knack for reaching out to others and a sincere passion to make a difference in the world. Once those qualities were revealed, it was all downhill from there.”

“I earned a Division I scholarship to play basketball at UNC Greensboro and from there received an offer to be a Graduate Assistant with Clemson University Women's Basketball,” Megan explained. “That's how I initially got into coaching and what first led me to SC. From Clemson I was hired at Charleston Southern as an assistant women's basketball coach. I left coaching for a few years before landing the head girls’ basketball coaching position at Brookland-Cayce High School. Coach Bennett then hired me as the head women's basketball coach at River Bluff High School. I’m also the Senior Women's Administrator for athletics at River Bluff. ” Charles Assey, in the meantime, “…graduated from Brookland-Cayce High School and played baseball at Presbyterian College. He was a GA at St. Edwards University in Austin, TX, then an assistant coach at Presbyterian College, followed by Charleston Southern.

From CSU he got his first head coaching job at Woodland High School in St. George, SC. He has since been the head baseball coach at Brookland-Cayce and now White Knoll.”

They were married in June of 2012. In April 2014 a beautiful baby girl, Lawson Lynn Assey, was born to the coaches. (One assumes there are at least one or two athletic genes in that child’s makeup!) Two dogs, Cooper, (a 7 lb. Maltese) and Chesney (a 100 lb. yellow

Lab) complete the household.

With both parents being head coaches at 4A high schools, it goes without saying that they are extremely busy people. As Megan observed, “It takes a lot of open communication and very good time management. Luckily for us, as my season is ending, Charles' is just beginning, so one of us can always be there for our daughter in the evenings and on game nights. It gets complicated at times, but we both try to keep in mind that’s what originally brought us together - the fact that we were both coaches.”

Megan continued, “We both have a passion for making a positive difference in the world and feel like coaching is a great platform to do so. I’m very proud of him and all that he stands for. He's an extremely inspirational man who sincerely cares about the well-being of others.

There's an old saying, “When you enjoy what you do, you'll never work a day in your life!”

That's how we both feel. We absolutely love what we do. It's important to be able to come home each night and lay your head down knowing that you tried to do something to make the world a better place. Through coaching we hope that we are both teaching kids how to prepare for the difficulties that

they will face in the future, how to develop a mental toughness, as well as how to maintain high moral character and integrity.”

Both River Bluff and White Knoll student athletes will certainly benefit tremendously from the influence of these two talented, caring and dedicated coaches, and it’s obvious they each benefit from the support of their spouse! www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Let’s Talk VOL 7, NO 4 COMPLIMENTARY

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share Bridges other with and Marie Julia Early ing story along unity their amaz en in our comm strong wom

Meet an ING INSPIR DUO LOCAL

BASEBALL

Don’t miss our Summer issue — coming soon! www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

School Varsity The Lexington High Team inspires a community

KNOW the

GLOW

the experience The Porters sharebattle with of their children’s Cancer Retinoblastoma Eye

anie and Stephey Culliver Richard share their journ McMillan

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

Hima Dalal on

Living Life ST to the FULLE

The REAL Coaches Wives of South Carolina Meet the Women Behind the Men

WKHS athletes sign scholarships

White Knoll High Senior Phillip Brown signs to play football at North Greenville University, Senior Melissa Carlyle signs to play soccer at Converse College and Senior Chris Miller signs to play football at Limestone College. Joining them for the signing include (back) WKHS Principal Ryan Player, WKHS Girls Soccer Coach Shandon Shoaf and WKHS Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Dean Howell.

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Let’s Talk

Structure is the Name of the GAME for Stephanie Hucks!

S

By Carol Ryall Photography by Tanya Waller

tephanie Hucks first met her husband, Lexington High School’s Baseball Coach Brian Hucks, at her college roommate’s wedding. He and some other guests were playing a game called “SNAPS”. As Stephanie tells it, “I was baffled by the game but I loved watching him and realized that his personality was just fun! I asked the bride to introduce us and she did!”

After graduation from Winthrop University, Stephanie taught one year in the Charlotte school system. When Coach Hucks accepted a position as the Baseball Coach at BrooklandCayce High School, they both moved to South Carolina and were married in December of 1999. She started teaching at Lexington School District Two’s Busbee Creative Arts Academy and has been there sixteen years. A National Board Certified Teacher, in August of 2014 she completed her second Master’s Degree in Educational Administration. She is passionate about the 6th, 7th, and 8th graders to whom she teaches Gifted and Talented Math.

Brian and Stephanie Hucks have two children of their own now. Their daughter, Caroline, is twelve years old, in the sixth grade and plays volleyball. Jackson, their seven-yearold son is a second grader and still exploring what sports he might enjoy. When asked about the challenges of being married to a Baseball Coach, Stephanie responded, “Even though the official Baseball Season is just a few months long, Brian is busy almost all year long doing something with the team, practice, summer leagues, etc. Most challenging is making sure we know who needs to be where and when! We compare calendars every Sunday night, just to be sure we have everything covered. Brian's parents are wonderful when it comes to helping out with our kids. I'm not sure what I would do if they didn't live close by.”

Ironically, when they first met, Stephanie Hucks didn’t even like baseball. An athletic, competitive person herself, having played volleyball in junior high and basketball at Pickens High School, she was more attuned to faster-paced sports and found baseball “painful to watch!” She says, however, that as she has learned the strategy of the game and come to understand what is happening on the field and why, she has grown to love the sport and

follows her husbands’ teams avidly. “One of my hobbies is baking,” she remarked. “I love to bake cupcakes and try new recipes. Every year when Brian's team travels, I bake big chocolate chip cookies for the boys. It’s become a tradition and, as busy as I am, I always somehow get them done!”

Combining baseball games and family life has become part of the fun for Stephanie and the Hucks’ children. “I was introduced to Geocaching about two years ago,” she explained, “and became obsessed! My kids and I love to geocache and often we will try to find a few on the way to games, especially when we travel to other schools.”

Questioned about the rewards of being the wife of a Coach, she replied, “Getting to know the players and their families as well as we

do is the best part. When Brian coached at BCHS, I was able to follow many of my students through the baseball program since I taught at one of the feeder middle schools for BCHS. Adam Westmoreland was one student who I taught in 7th grade. I watched him play for Brian throughout high school (and a high school state championship) and then through USC and a National championship. Talk about being a proud teacher!

We keep up with many of his former players from BCHS and Lexington High School and their families today. Those relationships are very special to us!”

This personable young woman seems to have found a game-winning-strategy for her life as Mrs. Coach Hucks! www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Our GAMECOCK Family!

By Patti McGrath

Photography by Tanya Waller

C

had Holbrook, Head Coach of the University of South Carolina’s baseball team, first met his future wife Jennifer at Surfside Beach the summer of 1988. They were both in high school visiting the beach on family vacations. “I was 16, a rising high school junior, and he was 17, a rising senior. We hit it off immediately,” Jennifer smiles. It must have been love at first sight because they began dating long distance for the remainder of high school and then throughout college.

“I was very active in athletics while in high school playing volleyball, basketball, softball and participating in track and field. I received a basketball scholarship to Presbyterian College, where I played four years and graduated with a bachelor's degree,” Jennifer says. “Chad went to the University of North Carolina where he played baseball for four years.”

After college, Chad became the assistant baseball coach at UNC while Jennifer worked in Columbia for six more years. The couple were finally married in 2000, and Jennifer moved to Chapel Hill.

“We had a son, Reece, in 2002 and another son, Cooper, in 2004. Our oldest son, Reece, was diagnosed with leukemia in the fall of 2004 at the age of two,” Jennifer states. “Chad was offered the Associate Head Coaching job at USC in the summer of 2007; however, our son was still in treat-

ment for leukemia and our family didn't feel we could leave at that time. Although it was devastating to me because I didn't think the opportunity would ever come around again to move back to my hometown, I knew we had made the right decision for our son's sake. As fate would have it, the VERY NEXT SUMMER Chad was offered a position AGAIN

by Coach Tanner! Our son was finishing his treatment plan that fall, so Chad accepted the job!”

Jennifer was excited to be coming home. She is originally from Columbia, and the move enabled her to be able to see her twin sister, Caroline, and the rest of her immediate family who live there.

Today Jennifer describes herself as a full-time mom who spends most afternoons acting as a chauffeur to her boys, getting them to and from practices and games. Jennifer is their number

one fan at sporting events.

Fortunately, Reece is now doing well. “This past November marked seven years off treatment - Praise God,” Jennifer exclaims.

“He is considered ‘CURED;’ however, we still go annually for a check-up & blood work. He just had a check-up and everything was great!”

“We are very blessed that the USC athletic family has joined in helping our foundation (formed when our son was diagnosed with leukemia), The Win Anyway Foundation,” she continues. “So many people take time out of their busy schedules to attend our fundraising events and help us raise awareness for pediatric cancer. We are lucky to be part of such a caring group of people.”

The family’s move to USC has been a blessing. “I love being a part of the USC athletic fami-

ly. Growing up a Gamecock and attending football, basketball and baseball games ever since I could remember, I’ve always felt like part of the USC family. What a special opportunity to actually be able to be a part of it once Chad came to work here,” Jennifer says.

She also loves the special bond the coaches and their wives share. “As the demands of college coaches are high and the coaches spend so much time away from their families, we all have to lean on each other.”

Chad knows he’s a lucky man.

"Jenn is the strongest and most caring person I know. As beautiful as she is on the outside she is even more beautiful on the inside; she has a heart of gold,” he shares. “She is an incredible mom to our two boys and the best companion I could ever ask for. She is, indeed, the backbone of our family.”

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Let’s Talk

The

J

Love of Coaching

By Patti McGrath Photography by Tanya Waller

essica Lown knew who Mark Bonnette was years before he even realized she existed. “Mark was hired out of college by my dad to be the head baseball coach and assistant football coach at Silver Bluff High School in Aiken, SC. He taught at the middle school with my mom and then coached at the high school with my dad,” Jessica explains. “I knew of Mark while he coached, but due to our age difference, we didn’t interact at all. Years later, while I was in my graduate year at Carolina, I ran into Mark in Columbia and mentioned that he had worked for my dad. He didn’t believe me, as he had no memory of my dad having a daughter (guess the braces and big bangs weren’t memorable)! After a few hours of talking, the rest is history.”

The two were married and now have two beautiful girls. Jessica remembers the day their oldest, Blakely was born. “I wasn’t sure I would see anything that Mark loved more than coaching and sports until I saw him on the day Blakely was born,” she recollects.

“Now as I watch him with Blakely (3 ½) and Sadie (20 months), I realize that as much as he loves being a coach, he loves being a dad even more. In the little time he is home, he is with them. Even on days when he is at the field all day, he calls me to bring them there, even for a few minutes. Our girls are truly the apples of his eye and they are nothing short of Daddy’s girls.”

“I also have to say that my life as a coach’s wife is so much easier thanks to the amazing parents at River Bluff High School. They are supportive, not only of my husband and his decisions, but also take the time to recognize me and my girls,” she continues.

Fortunately, she has a wonderful support team. “There is no way I could live my daily life, especially as a coach’s wife, without the support of my mom, and in-laws.

They help me in more ways than I can even begin to explain,” Jessica smiles. “Not only do they keep my girls during the day, but they also keep them when it is too cold, rainy, etc. so that I can still attend the games. Either all of us are go

Jessica knows that, for her, the challenges of being a coach’s wife are well worth the effort. It gives Mark and her deeper connection with the community, and she loves seeing her husband do something he is passionate about.

In addition, both she and Mark are teachers (Jessica teaches at Lexington High School), so they get to interact with young people constantly. “Mark and I share a love for teaching and being role models for young people. At the end of the day, the kids are what it is all about,” she shares. “I understand that the long hours he puts in with school and coaching, and that his stresses are not about the winning seasons or immediate reward. In teaching/coaching, we rarely get to see what comes from the hard work we put in, but when we have students or players come back and tell us that we made a difference in their lives, it is worth it all.”

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Jessica loves being a coach’s wife, but it isn’t always easy. “Mark is gone a lot, not only for practice and games, but also on the weekends for hours at a time to run a tournament or do field work,” she states. “Coaching doesn’t stop on the field for the head coach. He tries not to bring it home, but it’s impossible not to. And, I dread the rain, because of the amount of work that comes with getting the field back in order.”

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to games, or if my girls stay with my mom or mother-in-law, my father-in-law and I get to watch the games together. I especially treasure this special time with him. And, it helps my mother was a coach’s wife. She provided me with the example of how to be a supportive wife and how to hold it all together.”

I wasn’t sure I would see anything that Mark loved more than coaching and sports until I saw him on the day Blakely was born.

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Professional

SHOP at Todd & Moore!

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the season.

hen baseball and soccer parents shop at Todd & Moore, they never have to worry if that game-winning slide results in ripped pants or if the dog eats a shin guard halfway through

That’s because Todd & Moore, an iconic Columbia business that’s been taking care of Midlands athletes since 1944, prides itself on always having what its customers need.

“Baseball has evolved to a 10- or 11-month sport,” Todd & Moore baseball specialist Jeffrey Dockter said. “When some stores are out of inventory, they’re out. We make sure we stay stocked all year.”

Todd & Moore, located at 620 Huger St. in Columbia, has full-service soccer and baseball departments that carry all the top brands in both sports. Even more importantly: The departments are staffed with people who love playing the games, so they understand the importance of making sure every athlete has good equipment that fits great.

Todd & Moore also carries a supply of hand-warmers, scorebooks and Gamecock gear for those early spring games at Carolina Stadium.

At very basic levels, tee-ball and U4 soccer for example, players don’t need much gear. In tee ball, a glove and pants will do. In soccer, shin guards are enough. Cleats are recommended for both sports, and while soccer cleats used in the fall can be recycled for baseball in the spring, that won’t work in reverse. The toe cleat in a baseball shoe makes it illegal for soccer.

In soccer, it’s crucial to make sure shin guards fit properly in order to ensure both comfort

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

When some stores are out of inventory, they’re out. We make sure we stay stocked all year and protection. “It needs to be two fingers below the knee and three fingers above where the foot flexes up,” soccer specialist Jay Burns said. “The absolute best way to fit a shin guard is to actually try it on.”

Burns is not a fan of the socks with built-in shin guards that are so tempting for parents whose kids balk at straps. The built-in shin guards force players to wear two pairs of socks, and that becomes bulky inside the shoe. “They do offer enough protection, though,” he said.

It’s possible in both sports to invest more money in equipment for children who are especially enthusiastic – a practice ball in soccer and a bat and personal batting helmet in baseball.

In soccer, the size ball used depends on the player’s age: size 3 for ages up to 7, 4 for ages 8 to 11 and 5 for ages 12 and up.

In baseball, nothing is that simple. “Anything with baseball is hard to determine size just by a child’s age,” Dockter said. “Gloves are based on the size of their hands. It is better for a

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kid to have a glove that fits and that they can control than a glove that is too big.”

The same goes with bats. The player’s height is a big determining factor, but so is weight and the age division of play. And the more seasons a child plays, the more personal preference will become a factor in bat selection. A light bat with a high “drop” or a heavier bat with larger barrel – which is “best” will vary from hitter to hitter.

At Todd & Moore, Dockter has years of experience helping outfit hitters of all preferences.

In fact, that’s one of the things he loves most about his job. “I’ve been working for this company since 2003 and have seen many of the same families continue to grow. It feels good to be able to help the same families year after year and be able to build a relationship. There are not too many companies out there like us anymore.”

For more information or expert advice, call Todd & Moore at 765.0150, visit the web site at toddandmoore.com or the Facebook page at facebook.com/toddandmoore.

Professional

Preparing for the Unthinkable: Are your family members’ legal documents in order should a family crisis occur?

By: Stephanie Y. Vokral

Critical Transitions Wealth Advisors

Stephanie Y. Vokral, CFP®, AIF®

Assisting Women in Transition Stephanie Y. Vokral

H

earing about tragedy in the news is hard. Appropriately, we get sad and probably even pray for those involved. It is tough. But, have you ever

stopped to think about how an unthinkable event would impact your family? Setting aside the gut-wrenching, heartbreak for a minute if possible, how would your family really be affected? You always hear people say you should have a will, but why? South Carolina probate is relatively easy and inexpensive compared to other states.

What happens if you die without a will (intestacy)?

Let’s look a little deeper and take your house that you share with your spouse and kids as an example. In SC, “joint” ownership on real estate deeds are NOT joint tenants with rights of survivorship.

This means that if you die owning your home “joint” with your spouse and have no will, 50% goes to your spouse and 50% goes to your kids.

It may not sound like a big deal now, but what happens when your spouse wants to sell the house at some point? If your kids are minors, under age 18 in SC, it can be even harder (or costly) to clean up.

What if you were to become incapacitated? Your will does not cover this. There are some other important documents you need called “healthcare directives” that deal with the healthcare side of incapacity. You will need a durable power of attorney to deal with the financial and legal side of incapacity. You also need a living will to tell your physician how to handle endof-life decisions. There was a tragedy in FL not so long ago dealing with incapacity you may remember.

Terri Shiavo became incapacitated after a heart attack in 1990. Fifteen years after her heart attack and

incapacity (many of these years in court battles between her parents and her husband), she died after her feeding tube was removed. Was this her wish? No one really knows because she did not have these healthcare directives in place. This was hard for all involved and gave national attention to ethical issues surrounding this family’s struggle.

So why is a Certified Financial Planner ™ or CFP® writing an article about legal documents? As a wealth advisor, I see my clients at least once a year and talk with them several times over the course of that year. They may see their estate planning attorney once every three to five years or longer as these documents don’t need to be reviewed as often. There are times I have to tell a client to see their attorney to update their documents because of a critical life event they have experienced. I work closely with my clients’ estate planning attorney to make sure their financial plan implements their estate planning wishes. For example, one common mistake I see is for a client to have their documents in place, but none of those documents “talk to” their assets. This means, perhaps,

they listed the beneficiary of their 401(k) as their “estate” or a spouse as primary beneficiary, then minor children as contingent (secondary).

This can potentially erase all the good intentions that went into creating a well-designed estate plan in the first place.

It is vital to have all the players on your team working together to help you pursue your goals. I don’t just advise my clients on their investments. As a Certified Financial Planner ™ or CFP®, I take a detailed approach to make sure ALL my clients’ planning works together and incorporates their investments to assist them in addressing the goals they want to accomplish.

Critical Transitions Wealth Advisors (CTWA) is a practice that specializes in working with women in transition. Life is full of transitions like divorce, marriage, retirement, death of a spouse, or a job change to name a few. Though these are not equal in impact, Stephanie knows they all require careful planning and sensitivity to the details and emotions involved. Stephanie began her career in 1998 with Robinson Humphrey, a predeces-

sor firm of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, in Columbia. She joined Boan Financial Group at Wells Fargo Advisors, in 2008. BFG moved to LPL Financial in 2012 to be independent from a financial institution. Starting in March 2014, CTWA operates independently in the Irmo area of metropolitan Columbia, SC.

Stephanie Y. Vokral, AIF®, CFP®

Critical Transitions Wealth Advisors

Wealth Advisor Managing Principal 7911 Broad River Road, Suite 200 Irmo, SC 29063 Phone: 803-749-7012 Fax: 803-749-7674 stephanie.vokral@lpl.com

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific, individualized legal and/or tax advice. We suggest you discuss your specific situation with a qualified legal advisor and/or tax professional.

Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advice offered through Independent Advisor Alliance, a registered investment advisor and separate entity from LPL Financial. Independent Advisor Alliance and Critical Transitions Wealth Advisors are separate entities and not affiliated with LPL Financial.

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Rita, Ava & Sullivan -

Ambassadors of

Happiness

By Carol Ryall

Photography by Tanya Waller

Therapy animals do not need to perform, though a few simple tricks will surely delight their audiences.

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Professional

S

ometimes there’s nothing you can say or do to make someone feel better or brighten their day. But, sometimes, where you and I can’t do a thing, Rita, Ava and Sullivan can make a big difference. Rita is a Greyhound, Ava is a Great Dane and Sullivan is a mix of Great Dane and something else! All are trained as Therapy Dogs. They make regular visits to Nursing Homes, Assisted Living facilities and to see Hospice patients in their homes.

Rita belongs to Linda Davis, who is the Volunteer Coordinator for Hospice Care of Tri-County. Linda started the Therapy Dog program at Hospice Care of Tri-County both because she saw a need where their patients were concerned, and also because she felt Rita would be an excellent therapy dog. Ava and Sullivan belong to Tommy and Mollie Lee. Mollie was already a volunteer for Hospice Care of Tri-County when the Therapy Dog program started. She and Tommy had their dogs trained and registered as Therapy Dogs and started doing this together on the weekends.

The difference the dogs make for some patients is truly heartwarming. Linda tells of taking the hand of a coma patient and petting Rita with it. Still in her coma, the patient smiled and Linda felt sure she was aware of what had just happened. Mollie shared the story of a patient who had been almost totally uncommunicative with everyone at his facility. Walking their dogs down the hall, they stopped at his door and he invited them in. After a few minutes, he turned to them and asked, “Won’t you folks sit down for a while?” His caretakers were amazed and delighted. There was another lady they had deliberately avoided because she was terrified of dogs. One day, as they were passing her doorway she called to them, “I’d like to see your dogs. Could you just bring them to the door of my room?”

They did. “What would happen if I touched one of them?” After being reassured it was safe, she asked for one of the dogs to be brought to her bedside. By the end of their visit, this lady was saying, “Please be sure to bring them to see me next time you are here!” And it is not only the patients, the doctors, nurses and caregivers also benefit from seeing the therapy dogs.

and friends; to see the smiles on their faces; to know they have made a positive difference in someone’s life that day – these are the reasons volunteers spend their free time taking therapy dogs into schools, hospitals, nursing homes, and hospice patients’ homes.

Have you ever thought that your own little Fido or Precious would be a wonderful Therapy Dog? (Yes, there are also cats, guinea pigs, rabbits, horses, donkeys, llamas, alpacas, pot-bellied pigs and birds used in therapy animal work. Dogs, however, are the most common.) A therapy animal must enjoy human contact and excessive petting.

They must be comfortable staying in place, whether it is on a floor, chair, couch, bed or lap, or in their handler's arms. Therapy animals do not need to perform, though a few simple tricks will surely delight their audiences. They must obey basic obedience commands, and be tolerant of disturbances such as clumsy handling by children and elderly people; equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, crutches and canes, sudden and loud noises or the surprise of seeing another animal in a facility. https://www. therapydogs.com links to a nationwide organization of Therapy Dogs and Owners.

You may call Linda Davis at 803 400-1177 for more information on volunteering at Hospice Care of Tri-County (with or without a dog!)

To be able to bring some pleasure, joy and love into the lives of these people who are frequently isolated by distance, transportation, or work schedules from their family www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Professional

Blessed to be a Single Woman By: Kimberly Richardson Widows of Opportunity

W

hen was the last time you heard a single woman brag about being single? We so often hear a woman bragging about being in a relationship, getting engaged, or being married. While all those things are great, it's a blessing being a single woman.

Single Women - when was the last time you took yourself on a date or did something nice for yourself? As single women, we have to be careful how we talk to ourselves and treat ourselves.

Stop allowing other factors social media, your coworkers, family and friends - to dictate your worth! Don't let them rush you into a relationship that you do not desire or aren't ready for.

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issues. Some of us need to sit down with a therapist to resolve some issues that we may have.

If you take the time and energy that you are spending complaining about being single and put it towards improving yourself, you will not have time to complain.

Some of you may say to yourself something along the lines of this: "I'm 30 (or 40, or 50), and I'm still single. What's wrong with me?"

Great question! How about taking time out to find out the answer. Some of us aren't relationship material yet. Some of us need to work on improving ourselves. Some of us need to let go of our past baggage and trust

What's wrong with taking yourself on a date? Are you afraid of what people may think of you?

That is something for you to work on. There will always be someone out there to judge you and dislike you - sometimes for no reason at all. That's not your problem. The day you stop caring about what others think about you is going to be a great day.

It will be an amazing feeling! If you can't take yourself on a date and enjoy your own company, what makes you think a man wants to to do the same? Rebuild

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

your confidence. It takes a confident and bold woman to take herself out to eat or out to the movies - just to enjoy herself!

Single Women - when was the last time you complimented yourself? It is so easy to bad mouth yourself about your looks, height, weight, or other things about you. No one is perfect - period! A confident woman works with what she has. If she can improve in some areas, she does.

Stop pointing out your flaws, and start acknowledging your beauty!

Get used to complimenting yourself, so that when someone tells you that you are beautiful you will just say "thank you" instead of "who me?", "not really", or " I'm just ok."

The grass always looks greener on the other side. Being in a

relationship is a beautiful thing when both people are ready and mentally healthy. It's hard work no matter what you see in a person or on social media. There are so many women in relationships who wish they were single.

Enjoy this time! When the time is right, Mr. Right will show himself. Until then, improve yourself, date yourself and learn how to live with yourself.

Tips for Single Women Treat yourself to something special Learn how to date yourself Learn how to love yourself Compliment yourself daily Be nice to yourself Being single is a blessing Stop looking for a man Embrace your singleness

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The Porters of their childrshare the experience en’s battle with Retinoblastoma Eye Cancer

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Real Women

Health & Wellness

Fight Like A SuperGirl, Round 8 Raises Funds for Breast Cancer Patient Support!

C

The Ta-tinis Celebrate Breast Cancer Survivors olumbia, SC – In celebration of breast cancer survivors, The Ta-tinis will host the 8th Annual Fight Like A Girl event on Friday, April 24, 2015 from 7-11:30 p.m. with a Survivor Reception from 6-7 p.m. at the Columbia Conference Center. The

SuperGirl themed formal evening will feature live music from Elliott and The Untouchables, DJ stylings by The Charlie Brown Group, a food and dessert buffet, open bar and Vegas-style entertainment! Proceeds benefit the South Carolina Oncology Associates (SCOA) Cares Foundation, a local non-profit organization that provides support to breast cancer patients. Since 2008, The Ta-tinis have raised more than $260,000 for SCOA Cares at Fight Like A Girl Events.

Most everyone will find themselves or a loved one affected by breast cancer during their lifetime. Breast cancer touched the lives of Brittany Barfield, Mandy Bowden, Kim Hamrick-Watson, Jessica Lanford McCain and Amy Kinard within a 20-month period, between the ages of 26 and 34 years old. Their experiences inspired them to coin themselves “The Ta-tinis” and mobilize in the fight against the second leading cause of cancer deaths in women. As breast cancer survivors, they have endured hair loss, chemotherapy and bilateral mastectomies together. Sadly, they lost their youngest Ta-tini, Jessica Lanford McCain in November of 2013. Their recoveries from breast cancer and the loss of Jessica demonstrate the importance of breast cancer awareness and early detection. At the event, The Ta-tinis will remember Penny Gantt and other friends who lost their fight against breast cancer last year.

Tickets are $65/individual and $110/pair through April 23, 2015 and $75 the day of the event. For event and sponsorship information or to purchase tickets visit http://www.theta-tinis.com/fight-like-a-girl-benefit.php. Tickets are also available for purchase at South Carolina Oncology Associates, Dems Jewelers and Kleen Kare.

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Health & Wellness

“I Don’t Have Clients; I Have Friends.”

By Carol Ryall

Photography by Clark Berry

T

ina Wilkerson, owner of Elite Personal Training, is a personal trainer with a big heart .The Columbia resident was a typical stay-at-home mom. But six months after her daughter was born, she was 40 pounds overweight, experiencing low energy, headaches, and back pain. Determined to make changes that would allow her to enjoy life with her daughter, she began studying nutrition and fitness. Through changes in her diet and exercise, she lost weight, gained muscle, and went from a size 14 to a size 2. Her physical ailments disappeared and were replaced with energy, painless mobility and confidence. Having experienced first-hand the benefits of adopting a healthy lifestyle, she has now devoted her life to helping others improve their quality of life.

Certified by the National Academy of Sports Medicine as a Personal Trainer (CPT) and a Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES), she opened Elite Personal Training Studio in 2007.

The Studio, at 1186 Columbia Avenue, Suite 101 in Irmo, is in a new 1800 square foot facility equipped with free weights, pulleys, kettle bells and a variety of dynamic training tools. The clean, warm décor make it closer

to a boutique than an open gym.

Free community health talks are also regularly offered on wellness, nutrition and fitness subjects.

“My own personal fitness journey has been a challenge as well as a reward. I have struggled with my own health issues, and days when my motivation is low, or times when my self-esteem is poor. I am much like the average person.

But I know how empowering and

freeing it is to have a body that cooperates with the person that is inside of me. I know how great it feels to move better, have less pain, and to have confidence.”

Tina’s personal insights into the struggles that many people face is exactly what makes her clients appreciate her and what helps them be encouraged to progress toward their own goals. Client Dana Berry says “I know Tina

can relate to me. She makes me feel comfortable and confidant.

When I’m having a bad day, I am more likely to get a hug and some great stretching and relaxation exercises than to ever get any kind of judgment from her. She is organized and deliberate about my program design. When I leave her I always feel better, both psychically and emotionally.”

Tina’s clientele is a diverse group. www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Health & Wellness Most of her clients are trying to lose weight or improve their general health, but she also works with many older adults who want to maintain and improve their independence, as well as those who are stepping down from Physical Therapy and Rehab. “It’s so rewarding,“ Tina commented, “to help people create a body that allows them to live the kind of life they want to live.”

She’s not a Drill Sergeant, but a supportive, unintimidating encourager. “My clients become my friends. They trust me because they know I genuinely care about them, and that I understand their struggles,” she says. Many of them have been with her for several years. “We walk the roads of life together,“ says one client. Tina says, “I have the clinical knowledge; I am extremely thorough and comprehensive in the services and experiences I provide; my clients get results. But they also know my heart is for them, and that is what really matters.”

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Tina’s services include private and semi-private training programs, complete with movement screenings, health assessments, personal program designs and nutritional counseling.

Her free consultation allows prospective clients a full assessment and program recommendation. Her $59 semi-private training trial gives new clients the full assessment, as well as four training sessions. Call Tina at 803-749-4279, or visit www.elitepersonaltrainingstudio.com to schedule your free consultation.

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

A Woman with Heart

Health & Wellness Ask the Doctor Women and Heart Disease With Dr. Deyanira “Dee” Prastein

Meet the First Female Heart Surgeon in the Midlands

L

exington Medical Center is pleased to announce that Dr. Deyanira “Dee” Prastein has joined the hospital’s network of care as

a heart surgeon. She joins Dr. Jeffrey Travis at Lexington Cardiovascular Surgery, a Lexington Medical Center physician practice, to provide comprehensive cardiovascular care that meets the needs of our community.

She is the first female heart surgeon in the Midlands.

Dr. Prastein has world-class training in cardiothoracic surgery, studying inside some of the most prestigious heart programs in the world.

Her intensive work includes experience with the most state-of-the-art procedures available today.

Prior to joining Lexington Medical Center, Dr. Prastein was the lead cardiothoracic surgeon at Duke Regional Hospital in Durham, N.C. A graduate of the Medical College of Virginia, Dr. Prastein completed a general surgery residency at the University of Maryland and cardiothoracic surgery training at the Wake Forest University School of Medicine. During her residency, she participated in extensive research on heart failure. She then worked at Papworth Hospital in England, a facility famous for being one of the first in Europe to perform heart transplants.

Dr. Prastein compares open heart surgery to an orchestra playing music.

“All of the players in the operating room have different roles and everything has to come together,” she said. “It’s paced so that things happen at the right time and tempo. Everyone knows the steps and what time to do certain things, and the timing matters.”

Dr. Prastein decided that she wanted to be a heart surgeon while in medical school.

“I thought that cardiothoracic surgery was the most amazing thing you could do as a surgeon and doctor,” she said. “Our brain makes us human and the person you are, but none of that matters if you don’t have a working heart.”

Lexington Medical Center’s heart program is affiliated with Duke Medicine. Dr. Prastein learned about the hospital while working there.

And she was impressed.

“Lexington Medical Center is very passionate about and dedicated to making its heart program succeed.”

She also liked that Lexington Medical Center

has made efforts to make sure they have the best cardiologists and surgeons available, and supporting staff to provide top-notch care.

“I love what Lexington Medical Center has created. My goal is to make the hospital’s heart program grow and thrive. There’s a lot of goodwill and passion for treating patients with heart disease, and I want to make sure I’m part of that success.”

She understands that heart surgery is a scary proposition for patients and their families. So, she works to put them at ease.

“Right before surgery, I talk to my patients, hold their hand, look into their eyes and tell them, ‘I’m going to take good care of you.’”

She knows that heart surgery will improve their quality of life and help them to live longer.

Working as a doctor has been a dream of Dr. Prastein since childhood. She was born in Nicaragua and lived there until she was 10, when war led her family to move.

“When we lived in Nicaragua and the war started, I wanted to help people,” she said. “In my eyes, there were only two people you could run to for help – priests and doctors. Obviously, I couldn’t be a priest, so I wanted to be a doctor.”

Dr. Prastein settled in Fairfax, Virginia, outside of Washington, D.C., with her parents and brothers. Her mother and father, a civil engineer, sent her to college at George Mason University, where she graduated with a degree in chemistry.

There, she met her husband, Jonathan. They’ve been married for nearly 20 years and have a son named Jascha, who will be two years old in March. In her spare time, Dr. Prastein enjoys spending time with Jonathan and Jascha, and running. She has completed five marathons.

“I am proof that you can do anything with hard work. I am truly living the American dream.”

Dr. Deyanira "Dee" Prastein inside Lexington Medical Center's open heart surgery operating room

What differences have you noticed between men and women with heart disease?

Women tend to delay things, living with heart disease longer and presenting later.

We see women who go about their routine chores while having chest pain or chest discomfort, ignoring or dismissing it.

Sometimes they live with symptoms until they become so tired that they physically can’t do anything. It’s only then that they see a doctor.

What do women tell you about why they didn’t see a doctor sooner?

They seem to be focused on everyone except them. They put their families first. We see wives encouraging their husbands to see a doctor, but women often live with symptoms until they can no longer hide them.

How can heart surgery be different for men and women?

Women do really well with heart surgery because they seem to tolerate pain better than men. Also, older patients often tolerate pain better than younger ones.

How does smoking affect our hearts?

Nicotine causes hardening of the blood vessels, making them more stiff and narrow. That hardening of the arteries makes blockages more apparent sooner. You could say nicotine is the opposite of nitroglycerin, which allows blood vessels to become bigger.

What about diabetes?

With diabetes, high levels of sugar in your bloodstream allow the buildup of plaque in every blood vessel in your body, including the arteries in your heart.

What message do you have for women about heart disease?

I want women to know that it’s not normal to have no energy or to have chest discomfort such as pain or burning. If you do, see your doctor. Women who smoke, have a family history of heart disease or have diabetes should be especially careful. Don’t ignore symptoms. We can treat them and prevent a major heart attack. www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Real Women

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

Health & Wellness

MEET Janet Paul

By Patti McGrath Photography by Lindsey Duncan

J

anet Paul loves working at Lexington Medical Center because she learns something new every day and enjoys working with a wonderful group of people who are willing to share their intellect and expertise.

She is thankful every day for the life she lives. In fact, she’s probably more thankful than most because she knows the horrors her mother and father endured as Holocaust survivors.

When Schindler’s List came out in the theaters, Janet went to see it. She had heard the different stories about Poland from her parents but until she saw the movie it hadn’t been realistic to her. The story it told made her very emotional. Her father had also seen the film and he wanted to go home.

He asked Janet and her sister, Helen, to accompany him on a trip back to Poland to visit his home and see the camp where he had spent many years at Auschwitz-Birkenau.

That trip became the most unbelievable week in Janet’s life.

Upon returning home, she found people were interested in hearing about her trip. They wanted to know what she saw and how she felt, so she began speaking at various elementary and middle schools, as well as Sunday school. It was a wonderful opportunity to not only share her father’s story but to make sure the history of the Holocaust is not forgotten.

“When we saw where my Dad grew up and the areas that surrounded his town, I was saddened to hear how people treated the Jews of the town. The regime came in and gathered the people in the Town Square and moved them to the Warsaw Ghetto, or worse, killed them on the spot,” Janet explains.

“The synagogue was in disrepair that was only a few doors down from my Dad’s home, but was the center of Jewish life and had the Matzoh oven on the top floor for Passover baking. I then realized our guide had been on a PBS special that I had watched a year before and was very humbled that our guide was one person trying to keep Eastern European Jewish life in people’s minds” she continued.

The hardest part of the trip was visiting Auschwitz. “Auschwitz I was full of barracks that were mini- museums and were full of what the Nazis collected from those that

Janet Paul were transported by the railroad cars. But, Auschwitz II was the saddest place on earth,” Janet says, pausing at the memory. “I was so emotional going through the gates and walking down the railroad tracks towards the crematorium. It saddened me that there were houses right across the street and that the townspeople did nothing to help the people interned.”

“I was in awe of my Dad who spoke to people that would listen to his story. He would raise his sleeve to show his tattoo and the students that were at Auschwitz that gathered around him. He was hugged by so many that he spoke to that day,” she remembers. “One group of hearing impaired students came up to my Dad. When they saw him roll up his sleeve, they touched his arm.”

My parents only want the best for their children, and for them to have a better life than they had. They were unbelievable role models.

Her father was in his 80’s when they visited Poland, and passed away a few years later at the age of 99.

Janet is thankful for the time they had together to learn about what their parents endured, and it makes her especially thankful for her life here. “I am blessed that my parents were able to immigrate to the United States,” she states. “My parents only wanted the best for their children, and for them to have a better life than they had. They were unbelievable role models.”

Janet shares information about the Holocaust to help everyone remember that silence is not golden when there are people being killed for a different religious belief or for the right to speak. www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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

Jill Libbey Making a Difference in The Lives of Others

By Patti McGrath Photography by Lindsey Duncan

L Jill Libbey “Back then I was the first new graduate the ICU had hired. The nurses took me under their wings and took care of me. It was a real ‘sisterhood’ and a wonderful experience,” Jill continues. “In 2000, I returned to school to get my masters in anesthesia. After graduation I came right back and began my career as a nurse anesthetist.”

LMC has provided Jill more than a career. “My husband, Dr. Jeff Libbey, is a general surgeon at the hospital. We met sixteen years ago after being set up on a blind date by a mutual co-worker. It is safe to say that if it weren't for LMC, we would probably never met,” she exclaims.

In addition to her work, Jill began working with the LMC Foundation in 2010 when she was invited to be involved in the formation of a women's volunteer circle. A handful of ladies and she formed what is now called The Women of Hope which is a

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

philanthropic group with the goal of helping increase the health of women and their families in the community. The Women of Hope is open to any women who want to have a hand in improving the health and lives of women in the community.

“Today we are over 100 members strong,” Jill explains. “We have had several successful projects including a hospital wide food drive and have provided Christmas gifts for the families of some of our sickest and neediest patients. Our flagship project is our Wine on the River fundraiser.

In the past three years we have raised approximately $60,000 for the foundation and the community projects it serves.”

Jill feels it is very important to be involved in the community.

Her involvement began at her children’s school. “Once you start volunteering, you quickly begin to see all the needs within the school. I served as the PTA presi-

Real Women

exington Medical Center (LMC) has been a huge part of Jill Libbey’s life. “I began working for LMC almost nineteen years ago as a nurse tech in the intensive care unit while finishing my nursing degree at USC. Once I graduated, I was hired as an ICU nurse and worked there for four years,” she says.

Our flagship project is our Wine on the River fundraiser. In the past three years we have raised approximately $60,000 for the foundation and the community projects it serves. dent, and the PTA made some big contributions to the school including a $24,000 project to repair the school walking track and basketball court, and made major contributions for updates in technology,” she states.

Jill also wants her children to want to give back. “I am a mother of three young children. My husband and I try very hard to make sure that they are aware of how blessed our lives are and

that not everyone has the same securities we have (such as safe home, financial security, involved parents, and a loving extended family),” she says. “We have taken our children to volunteer with the USO for the Christmas Exodus, which is the day that roughly 10,000 soldiers leave Fort Jackson to go home for Christmas break.

It is an amazing sight to see all those young men and women marching out. As volunteers, we pass out snacks and drinks for the soldiers to take to the airport to eat as they wait for their flights home. This made a major impression on my children and they look forward to helping each year.”

Jill is fortunate to have a wonderful career and family, and counts her blessings daily. She makes a difference daily in the lives of the patients she helps, with her children, and through the volunteer work she does. You too can make a difference in the lives of others.

Consider volunteering today!

Health & Wellness

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Art and Entertainment Colonial Life Arena.........................................2 www.coloniallifearena.com Lexington Chamber..................................... 20 www.lexingtonsc.org Stepping Out Dance Studio......................... 20 www.steppingoutsc.com Ringling Brothers & Barnum & Bailey…..19 ringling.com Town Theatre……………………………..19 www.towntheatre.com Tatini’s Fight Like a Girl ………………....34 Attorney Kinard & Jones.............................................. 14 www.kinardandjones.com Automotive White Knoll Automotive............................. 22 www.whiteknollautomotive.com Bedding and Furniture North Furniture............................................ 12

Hotels Comfort Suites..............................................8 www.comfortsuiteslexington.com

Homewood Suites by Hilton................................17 www.homewoodsuites3.hilton.com Wingate by Wyndham.....................................24, 27 www.wingatehotels.com

Insurance

State Farm...............................................................27 www.markrouse.org

First South Insurance Agency, INC........... 33 www.fsia.net Interior Design M. Gallery........................................................ 9 www.mgalleryinteriors.net Landscaping Grounds Guys............................................... 11 www.groundsguys.com

Southern Bedding of Columbia.................. 11 www.southernbeddingofcolumbia.com

Pets Grace Pets Animal Hospital.......................... 4 www.gracepets.com

Children’s Instructional Play

Millcreek Animal Hospital.......................... 33 www.millcreekanimalhospital.com

Programs The Little Gym.............................................. 20 www.thelittlegym.com Eye Care Envision Family Eye Care............................ 43 www.envisionfamilyeyecare.com Financial Advisor Stephanie Y. Vokral...................................... 29 www.boanfinancialgroup.com Gyms & Fitness Elite Personal Training.................................38 www.elitepersonaltrainingstudio.com Health Services Bee Healthy................................................... 36 www.beehealthyclinics.com Centa Hearing Center.................................. 43 www.centamedical.com Lexington Medical Center..... 40 ,Back Cover www.lexmed.com Vital Energy Rehab Center.......................... 35 www.vitalenergytherapy.com Lexington Plastic Surgery............................43 LexPlasticSurgery.com

Photography Clark Berry Photography.................................................. IFC www.clarkberry.com Restaurants McDonalds.................................................... 28 www.mcdonalds.com Retirement Communities The Columbia Presbyterian Community….44 www.preshomesc.org Spa Pura Wellness Spa......................................... 36 www.Bepura.com Shopping Edible Arrangements................................... 19 www.ediblearrangements.com Sew Suite Studio.............................................. 8 www.sewsuitestudio.com

A Personal Note

A

few days ago I went to Greenville to see our oldest son. My husband had the opportunity to travel with me and my mom was kind enough to oversee our other three children’s busy schedules.

Trey inadvertently complimented his dad on his song writing skills. He did so by saying he felt unsure of sharing his own songs because his dad’s songs were so well written. My sweet husband, who is and continues to be a wonderful teacher to our children , explained to Trey why he should never worry about sharing with his dad. He used an example of how age changes the way we view and see life.

For example, Trent has a nice sized dent in his like new Silverado pickup truck that he will never repair. The reason is, when our daughter was learning to drive she hit Trey’s truck with her dad’s truck and every time he sees that dent, he is reminded of that milestone with our daughter, Abby. She was scared to drive again for weeks. He of course got right back in the truck with her and assured her she could do it.

There are many things in our life that stay “broken” or “unfixed” for the same reason. I have a china cabinet full of figurines of Jesus. One is outstretching what should be a hand, but it was knocked off when Colton was little and now instead of a hand it is an arm. One figurine is a fiddler who is missing his bow. Trey used to like to play with the bow and in one sitting forgot to put it back.. and we just lost it.

These memories don’t make me angry. They help me to remember a time when they were curious about the man holding out his hand, and felt the need to touch it. How we spent the next thirty minutes talking about Jesus and why his hand was outstretched. I am reminded how, even as a toddler, Trey was fascinated by all things musical and technical. A broken Grandfather clock is not a broken clock, it is a reminder of the time Ryan tried to get out a book, I had used under the leg like a slider, and pulled the thing over on himself. He was fine, but it scared him. We spent the next thirty minutes cuddling.

“Sometimes what others see as flaws are really the simple imperfections are really the flaws that make a thing or a person perfect for us.” (That is a direct quote from my husband, by the way.) I think it’s beautiful. Because I am not close to perfect. I try every day to make the right choice and be exactly who I was created to be, and there are days when I fall short. I try to be the best mom I can be, and there are days when I have to apologize because I am nowhere close.

Here is what I don’t have to be - perfect. I just have to be present, every day, doing my best - and that is all I expect of my husband and my children. After all, those dented fenders and broken clocks are just stuff; stuff that can be bought and sold. The memories attached to them are priceless.

God Bless you and yours,

Lori Samples Duncan

May the LORD make you increase, both you and your children. May you be blessed by the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.

(Psalm 115:14-15)